Extended Biblical Comments PDF

EXPANDED
BIBLICAL
COMMENTS
1879-1916
PREFACE
In his ministry of some 37 years, from 1879 to 1916, the written material produced by
Charles Taze Russell has been calculated at some 39,000 pages, an output of over 4 pages per
day. His voluminous works contain comments on a wide variety of Scripture topics, giving
specific insight into literally tens of thousands of Bible texts. However, since he wrote from a
topical perspective, it has not always been easy to locate his teachings on particular verses.
Over the years some four attempts have been made to make this task of isolating his
thoughts on specific Scriptures easier for the Bible student. Each of these attempts tried to be
more exhaustive than its predecessor, and such is the aim of this current work.
In 1901, arrangements were made to produce a special Wide- Margin edition of the Linear
Bible with the pertinent references to the five volumes of Scripture Studies then available, and the
previous six years of Watch Tower magazines; printed as marginal notations next to the
referenced text. This Bible also contained the text of both the Common, or King James, version
and that of the Revised Version. Further details, about it can be found in the Watch Tower
Reprints, pages 2850 and 3451.
In 1907, a private project by Clayton J. Woodworth, selecting specific interpretations from
the six volumes of Scripture Studies, was produced by the International Bible Students
Association, as part of a series of appendices to a new Bible Student's Bible. These appendices
also included a Topical Index and an Instructor's Guide, compiled by Sr. Gertrude W. Siebert as
well as a section on Difficult Texts by Bro. Woodworth. This edition was ready for distribution by
October, 1907, and is announced on pages 3992 and 4072 of the Watch Tower Reprints. There it
is noted that Bro. Woodworth spent 7 hours a day for the six month period from November, t906
to April, 1907 accumulating these comments.
In May of 1908 plans were announced for a second edition of this Bible, with an up- dated
commentary by Bro. Woodworth that would include the Watch Tower magazines as well as the
comments from the six volumes of Scripture Studies. This announcement can be found on page
4096 of the Reprints, as well as the announcement of a later printing on page 4852.
It is this 1908 edition that has become a standard reference work in many Bible Student
libraries over the past 70 years and has gone through six reprintings in the past 16 years by the
Chicago Bible Students Book Republishing Committee. The continuing demand for this volume is
a fair indicator of its lasting popularity among Bible Students.
However, since this work only includes the writings of Pastor Russell through the year
1907, and does not include the many miscellaneous works which he wrote, it was deemed wise to
consider an up- dating of this work. An additional reason was that many discrepancies were noted
in earlier production, where the comment given could not be verified as accurate by referring to
the citation noted. The current project, of which this Old Testament is part one, began over seven
years ago. At that time a four- stage program was drawn up and put into operation.
The first phase was to recruit a team of some 50 brothers and sisters throughout the
United States to carefully and systematically read through the Reprints from 1909 to 1916,
digesting the material onto filing cards under Scripture headings. The miscellaneous writings of
Pastor Russell were also included in these reading assignments. As a result, after one full year,
some 20,000 to 25,000 specific comments were gleaned and filed in Scripture order. All texts
referenced in the various indexes were then researched for additional comments.
In the second phase of the project, a team of four manuscript compilers was commissioned
to work from this input of new material and combine it with the older editions, verifying the
accuracy of each comment selected. A set of guidelines were drawn up to insure objectivity in the
selection of material for the new book.
The third phase, that of editing the manuscript, proved to be the most time- consuming,
and the one that has delayed the project far beyond its original projected publication. An
exhaustive editing procedure was devised. One master editor was appointed to review all of the
material, checking for accuracy, objectivity and exhaustiveness. He was furnished with all of the
original research material to assist him in this work.
Then one of a team of 13 secondary editors were also sent copies of the manuscript to
check independently of the primary editor. The work of both of these editors was submitted to the
project coordinators who digested their findings for the final editing.
Two elders of the Chicago Bible Students were commissioned to carry out the final
editing procedure. The first of these was to review the combined work of the compiler, the master
and secondary editors; and then to re- read all of the articles referenced in the various Scripture
indices to the Reprints and the other writings of Pastor Russell, increasing the total number of
comments. Then, the second of these final editors, was to review the entire work, including the
additions of the first final editor.
The final phase was production which again involved many brethren in the tasks of actual
typesetting, and also repetitive proof- reading and grammatical editing for conformity to
punctuation and capitalization styles.
It is the result of this cumbersome process which you now hold in your hands, some 1127
pages of typewritten manuscript, representing 20,200 individual comments on the Old Testament
alone, with a total of 27,659 references. This compares with 7,007 comments and 7,860
references in the current manual.
Several guidelines were established to seek for objectivity and uniformity in the work you
have before you. To the degree to which these were followed, we trust that this work will
accurately reflect the thinking of Pastor Charles Russell, the author of the works we were desiring
to digest into commentary form.
Realizing that, in nearly 40 years of writing, there would not only be a progression of
thought, but also a wide variety of ways of expressing thoughts which would open these writings
to a variety of interpretations, it was sought to make this commentary as unbiased as possible. If
conflicting thoughts, or words which indicated possible conflicts, were found, then both were to
be included. The one exception to this rule was in those cases where there was a generally
recognized change of viewpoint by the author, in which case only the latter views were included.
An example of this is on the matter of the operation of the New Covenant, where the change of
viewpoint was so extensively voiced in the years of 1909 and 1910.
The matter of how to handle material included in the over- all writings of Pastor Russell
that were not from his pen, but contributed by others, was also considered. It was decided to
include these comments, since their inclusion was evidently under the direction of Pastor Russell
as the editor of the journal. However, whenever this was done it was denoted in the comments by
an asterisk ('). Such comments were also included in the original Bible Students Manual.
Exceptions to this rule were in those cases where a viewpoint was quoted by Pastor Russell for
the specific point of disagreement-- as in the opposing views given by Rev. White and Rev. Eaton
in the debates found in the book, Harvest Gleanings. Excerpts from the book, "The Three
Worlds," found in Harvest Gleanings, are included without the asterisk, even though the actual
authorship of this book-- whether by Pastor Russell or by N. H. Barbour is debatable. However,
this portion was excerpted rather sparingly. All articles that were unsigned in the Reprints were
assumed to be from the pen of Pastor Russell.
Excerpts from the old comments from the Newspaper Sermons of Pastor Russell, denoted
by the symbol "N," were excluded because they could not be verified. There are two exceptions to
this in the book of Malachi which could be verified from the recent publication of these sermons
in the book, Harvest Gleanings, Vol. 2. These references are identified by the symbol "NS," for
Newspaper Sermons, to distinguish them from excerpts from the first volume of Harvest
Gleanings.
Pastor Russell's complete familiarity with the Bible is often shown in his use of Biblical
language in regular sentence structure. This usage is seldom accompanied by the citation of the
texts referenced. For this reason it has been difficult to excerpt many of these comments,
particularly in the years preceding 1909 that were not systematically researched. Therefore there
may be many inadvertent omissions of significant comments, due to this problem.
Other significant omissions may be due to the fact that 1908 was not researched in phase
one, because we were not aware, at that point in time, that it was not included in the original
commentary. Also, as the work progressed in the final editing stage, it was found necessary to be
more thorough in final research, a fact that was not realized in such early books as those of the
Pentateuch.
While care was sought to use the exact words from the articles cited, this was not possible
in a number of cases, and paraphrases were adopted to abbreviate the comment to the length
sought for a volume of this type. It is hoped that the extensive editing procedure adopted for this
volume will assure that these paraphrases accurately reflect the author in the writing cited.
One final problem was the handling of references to general typical pictures, where the
specific scripture was not cited. In the earlier comments this was a common practice, though not
necessarily reflecting the thoughts of Pastor Russell on that particular text. This is one area in
which the current volume is also not totally consistent. Where the compilers or editors felt that
there was general agreement on the general comment fitting the particular Scripture it was
included, and where they felt that there was significant difference of opinion on its meaning in a
particular Scripture, it was excluded. However, this admittedly leaves this area open to the
subjective judgement of the editors.
The referencing of the comments to the pages on which they were cited was another area
of concern. Abbreviated symbols were arbitrarily selected for each publication and are found on a
separate page in the forepart of this volume. In the case of references from the six volumes of
Scripture Studies and Tabernacle Shadows a page reference was deemed sufficient. In smaller
books, such as the Question Book, Sermon Book and Overland Monthly, you will find, after a
colon (:) a number which refers to the paragraph number on the page. In the case of a letter "T" it
refers to the portion of a paragraph on the top of a page that carries over from the preceding
page.
In the references to larger books, such as the Watch Tower Reprints, Harvest Gleanings
or Convention Report Sermons, a slightly different system is used. There the number after the
colon (:) refers, not to the paragraph number, but to a section number, as illustrated by the
diagram herewith-- each page being arbitrarily divided into six equal sections. This was done
because there are a variety of methods of counting paragraphs where poems, indented Scriptures
and long sub- headings are found.
Two additional peculiarities should be here noted. Because the page numbers of the
newest edition of the Photo- Drama of Creation differ from that of the original, both are noted,
separated by a slash (/), the old edition page number preceding the slash, and that of the newer
edition following it. In the case of the book "What Pastor Russell Taught", only references from
the section after page 323, written by Bro. Benjamin Barton, are included, since all of the other
material is duplicated in the Watch Tower Reprints.
Since the various editions of the six volumes of Scripture Studies, printed by different
publishers, may have slightly different page numbers, it was determined to use that which was
closest to the original and appears in the majority of editions. If your edition varies, it should be
found within a few pages of the page cited. The appearance of multiple citations for Volume 5
(E), has been dropped because the one edition that made such multiple entries necessary is
virtually out of circulation.
The publishers of this current work are prayerfully hopeful that it will be a valuable tool to
Bible Students
everywhere as they seek more accurately to understand the Lord's words to us through the
Bible. We trust that all will use it for the intention for which it is published, as a reference guide to
original material and a key to the Bible, and not as an answer book or a replacement for the study
of God's Holy Word itself.
Realizing well the failings of the human flesh and the enormity of the work itself, we
recognize that occasional errors, typographical as well as unintentional misunderstandings of
thought, may well occur in this work. For this we apologize, having sought to eliminate these to
the best of our ability.
A great debt of gratitude is due to the many brethren who contributed to the labor of
producing this volume and, while realizing that they labored freely out of their dedication to the
Lord and the truths contained in these writings of Pastor Russell, nevertheless we wish to express
our appreciation for their labors of love.
With the sincere hope that this volume, as well as that of the New Testament, which is still
some years from completion, will be of value to you in your searching of the Scriptures to prove
what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God, we place this work in your hands.
CHICAGO BIBLE STUDENTS

Book Republishing Committee
PREFACE II
It is with great joy that the publishers put forth the first of the two volume set of
“Expanded Biblical Comments on the New Testament.” These books are designed as companions
to the “Expanded Comments on the Old Testament,” printed some six years ago.
The same procedure of many hands being used to extract the voluminous comments of
Charles Taze Russell that was employed in the former work, was used in this project as well.
Once again, an effort was made to search all the writings of the late Pastor Russell in
order to offer as complete a representation of his views as possible.
As in the Old Testament work, no attempt was made to bend his expressions to fit into a
given doctrinal mold, but rather the individual comments, even when apparently contradictory,
were let stand. This volume, as its companions, is not intended to be an “answer book,” but to be
used as a reference work, directing the student to original source material.
Wherever possible, direct quotes were extracted. However, in many cases, to maintain the
brevity required for a work of this magnitude, the thoughts had to be either paraphrased or
condensed. Where the compilers made such condensations, the required ellipses were omitted for
typographical clarity.
Writings by other authors than Pastor Russell, when a part of the books he edited, are
included also in this volume. However an asterisk (*) is used in such cases to identify the fact that
they were penned by other authors.
The different Gospel records of the life of our Lord contain many similar incidents. It was
not possible to include the same references in each of these occurrences. Therefore, an appendix
has been prepared showing the similar passages in parallel columns. By use of this appendix, the
careful student will be able to locate all of the comments that apply to the given incident.
Work on the remainder of the New Testament books will be continued, and the final
volume will be produced as soon as practicable.
As in the former book of this series, the publishers are only too aware of the failings of
their flesh, and realize that inadvertent errors may have crept into this manuscript. We sincerely
apologize for such errors of omission or commission, assuring you of our efforts to prevent such
mistakes.
We owe a large debt of gratitude to all the many brethren who sacrificed literally
thousands of hours of their time to make this endeavor possible. Not only do we include here the
researchers, editors and compilers in this expression of appreciation, but also the many others who
were involved in typing, correcting and the various phases of production.
With these remarks, we entrust this work to your hands, hoping and praying that it will be
of help to you in your continuing search of the Scriptures to prove “what is that good, acceptable
and perfect will of God.”

November 1, 1988
PREFACE III
After more than 14 years of research, organization and production by a large number of Bible
Students, it is with gratitude and joy that we present this third volume of the “Expanded Biblical
Comments: 1879- 1916.”
The attempt to be thorough in this work led to a changed method of operation for the New
Testament comments. A team of researchers painstakingly looked up every reference in the “Index of
Scripture Citations,” of the Reprints, along with additional indices for the other writings of Charles Taze
Russell.
These were then cross- checked by other workers with the thousands of comment cards prepared
by a group of some 50 “readers” who extracted comments from the Reprints for the years of 1909 through
1916.
We refer the reader to the Preface of Volume 1 of this work for a detailed history of the project
and explanation of the primary method involved in its accomplishment.
It was a feeling of deep respect for the scholarship and ministry of Charles Taze Russell that
motivated this project initially. This respect has certainly been deepened in the minds of those involved as
they noted the thoroughness and logic of this “wise and faithful servant.”
The durability and clarity of his vision were increasingly evident to those who had the privilege of
working on this series of Commentaries.
The verse- by- verse format enables the student to benefit from both the topical method of Bible
Study used by the author, and the contextual method he so highly recommended.
Further research is going on to determine the feasibility of a companion volume, collating the
writings of Pastor Russell on some 75 to 100 Biblical topics, ranging from “Advent” to “Zion.”
Once again, an expression of appreciation is in order, not only to the more than 50 researchers and
the compilers, but to the large number of assistants in the various stages of production. The cooperation
of these brethren located in many cities throughout the United States demonstrates their dedication to a
common vision.
But above all, our appreciation goes to our Heavenly Father for the provision of the vast
“storehouse” of truth in the Bible, and to his Son, whose Second Advent marked the time of enlightenment,
when truths “new and old” would be brought forth from this “storehouse.”
Finally, we would like to once again state our desire that this work not be used as an “answer
book,” but as a research tool, an index, directing the scholar to original source material. And even then,
that the reader verify the accuracy of the concepts presented by checking them with the Bible.
To quote Pastor Russell himself, “Truth- seekers should empty their vessels of the muddy waters
of tradition and fill them at the fountain of truth— God’s Word. And no religious teaching should have
weight except as it guides the truth- seeker to that fountain.” A12
Recognizing our fallibility, we request that any of the users of this work who find errors of
commission or omission please notify the publishers so that these can be corrected in future editions.
With these few words, we entrust this Commentary to your hands, hoping and praying that it will
be a useful implement in your continued search for an ever- clearer understanding of God’s Word and His
divine Will; and that you, too, may rejoice the more in the ministry of “Present Truth” which the Lord has
showered upon us at this end of the Gospel age.
In appreciation of the privilege of serving the brethren of “the household of faith,”

September I, 1989
EXPLANATION OF FORMAT
SYMBOLS USED
A - Scripture Studies, Volume 1 - The Divine Plan of the Ages

B - Scripture Studies, Volume 2 - The Time is at Hand
C - Scripture Studies, Volume 3 - Thy Kingdom Come
D - Scripture Studies, Volume 4 - The Battle of Armageddon
E - Scripture Studies, Volume 5 - The Atonement Between God and Man
F - Scripture Studies, Volume 6 - The New Creation
R - Watch Tower Reprints

Q - Question Book (What Pastor Russell Said)
T - Tabernacle Shadows
CR - Convention Report Sermons
HG - Harvest Gleanings, Vol. 1
NS - Newspaper Sermons (Harvest Gleanings, Vol. 2)
OV - Overland Monthly (What Pastor Russell Wrote)
PD - Photo Drama of Creation
PT - What Pastor Russell Taught
SM - Sermon Book
DENOTING PAGE AREAS

:1- 6 Section of Page as per Chart Herewith
(Used for Reprints, Convention Report Sermons,
Harvest Gleanings, Newspaper Sermons)
:1- 9 Paragraph Numbers
(Used for all other books, except Scripture
Studies, where only a page number is given)
1 4
:T Referring to portion of paragraph at top of page,
carried over from preceding page
:I- x Referring to page numbers of forewords in Six 2 5

Volumes of Scripture Studies
* Referring to quotations from articles not written

by Pastor Russell 3 6
- "To," Used where a reference covers multiple

sections or pages
/ Separating page numbers of Old and New

Editions of Photo Drama of Creation
Italics Generally used to denote Hebrew and Greek

words
Old
Testament
Comments
Genesis
General
Genesis signifies creation, beginning, the act, process or
mode of producing or originating. The Bible points out
Jehovah God as the great first cause of all things. R2834:2
Every step of creation has tended to display the divine
character more and more and each successive step and
development of creation has brought forth new creatures
capable of comprehending the Eternal One. SM483:5 The
study of creation is the key of knowledge. Using this key we
begin to realize that the only worthy ambition is to cooperate
with our Creator's beneficent designs respecting his creation.
PD1/7
Genesis does not tell of the creation of the material of the
earth; not the creation of matter but the bringing of order out
of the matter. Q41:5, Q633:1; PD2/8 It discusses merely the
things pertaining to this world-their beginnings-leaving out of
the account entirely the other worlds of the universe.
R3920:3,6, R5139:2; F17,18 The history of creation given in
Genesis does not conflict with geology: the conflict between
the champions of Genesis and geology has been mainly in the
length of time consumed. R299:2*, R5130:1, R1608:2-6,
R1609:1,4*; F20, F23; OV9:T The Abydos tablet fully
agrees with Genesis. PD21/30
Mark teachings attempting to harmonize the Bible with
Evolution as contrary to the ransom. If Evolution is true the
Bible is false, and vice versa. There can be no middle
ground. R1610:4; F39-41 To us it means infidelity-a total
denial of the divine Word and plan of God. R2835:4
It is doubtless true that Moses wrote a large share of the
Pentateuch-but we are nowhere told by any Bible writer that
he wrote all of them. R691:2; R3935:6 That they were
written by Moses, or under his supervision, is a reasonable
inference. A43 Jesus said, "Moses wrote of me." Q633:3
The natural inference is that it consists of different revelations
made at different times prior to Moses; and that he embodied
them in a connected narrative. This in no degree detracts
from the divine authority of the book. R1623:1 It is not
strange that the story of creation and the flood are found in
the land of the Chaldeans at a date prior to Moses' writings.
The Scriptures make no claim that Moses was present at
creation or a witness of other incidents in Genesis. Moses
was merely the recorder who was used as God's amanuensis.
R3935:6
While the Bible claims no divine inspiration in respect to
the history of affairs from creation to Moses, a divine
supervision of that history is unquestionably implied. OV9:2;
A44, A53 The claim of this book to be regarded as a part of
divine revelation is established beyond question by the
authority of Christ and his apostles. R1622:3 No part of
subsequent revelation could be understood without a familiar
acquaintance with this book. R1616:5*
Contents of book outlined R1623:5 Harmony from Genesis
to Revelation listed in a "Divine Program"OV12:2
Comparison of contents of first chapters of Genesis with last
chapters of Revelation R462:1*
Genesis 1
Genesis 1:1
In the beginning -- Not of the universe, but of our planet.

F17
In the beginning of the first day of the creative week. F18
The Bible is the only book in the world which in a logical and
rational manner sets forth the order of creation in respect to
earth. OV8:4
Refers to the work accomplished by divine power in bringing
the waste and lifeless earth into condition for man's use.
R5139:2
The purpose which God had has never changed. R5057:6
God created -- A distinction is made between the creation
of the heaven and the earth, and the subsequent regulation, or
ordering, of these. F18
And the earth -- The most advanced of all the worlds yet
created. R3920:6
Genesis 1:2
And the earth was -- It already existed before the six days
began. R5139:3, R4386:3; F18, F23
We are not told when God began to make the earth. Q633:1;
PD2/8
The account of the days of creation given in Genesis relates
not to the construction of our globe, but to the ordering of it
for human habitation. PD2/8
The Vailian theory harmonizes with the Bible. It assumes
that Saturn's rings and Jupiter's belts illustrate earth's
development as a planet. PD2/8; F23
Without form and void -- Shapeless, empty. PD2/8;
R4386:3
Waste and void (Revised Version). R5139:5
There were neither mountains nor valleys, trees nor shrubs,
rivers nor oceans. PD2/8
And darkness -- There was no light in the earth prior to
the time when divine energy brooded on the surface of the
waters; because of an impenetrable fog and an upper canopy
of water and minerals. R5140:1
And the spirit -- The power or energy. E175
Moved upon -- Fecundated, rendered fruitful or prolific.
E175
This manifestation of God's spirit is easier to understand than
its transforming power. E183
The brooding of holy (divine) energy developed a light,
probably resembling the Aurora Borealis. PD2/8; R5140:1
Genesis 1:3
And there was light -- Possibly electrical, as Aurora

Borealis. F30; R5140:1
Thus are briefly summed up the results of 7000 years, styled
the- first day. PD2/8
The first day of 7000 years, under the divine energy,
gradually increased the electrical light and prepared for the
next epoch. R5140:1
Genesis 1:5
Called the light day -- Days, marked by a dull, grayish

light, became more distinct. Possibly enough sunlight
penetrated to the earth to distinguish day from night. F34
And the evening -- The obscure beginning. F31
And the morning -- The perfect completion. F31
As with the Hebrew solar days, so with these epoch days, the
evening came first. F31
Were the first day -- The Azoic or lifeless age of 7000
years. F31
The word "day" may be applied to any period or epoch. F19;
R5139:3; PD3/8
Not a sun day, for the sun itself was not visible until the
fourth creative day. PD3/8; F19; Q758:2
Each of these ages of creation was a period of 7000 years; the
whole period of creation up to the time of man was six
periods, or 42,000 years. Q633:1; R5768:2
Genesis 1:6
Be a firmament -- An expanse of atmosphere. F31

Circumambient air. PD3/8
Doubtless the light had to do in a natural way with bringing
about this secondary feature of the earth's preparation.
R5140:1
In the midst -- Between the. F31
Genesis 1:7
Made the firmament -- The atmosphere, composed of

gasses given off after the fall of the first canopy. F31
Divided the waters -- The strongly mineralized waters
above the earth, held off by the firmament and centrifugal
force, greatest at the equator, concentrated them at the two
poles. PD3/8
And it was so -- God accomplishes great and wonderful
operations by reasonable methods, called the "course of
nature." PD4/9
Genesis 1:8
Were the second day -- The Paleozoic age, Silurian

period, 7000 years. F31; PD3/8
Genesis 1:9
The dry land appear -- The weight of the seas caused the
earth to buckle as it cooled, gradually forcing portions of its
crust above water. F32; PD4/9
Under divine direction earthquakes took place and mountain
ranges were thrown up. R5140:1
Similar paroxysms of nature will probably occur soon, for we
are in another transition period-the opening of the Millennial
age, for which changed conditions are requisite. F32
Probably the American continent was thrown up much later
than were Europe, Asia and Africa. PD4/9
Genesis 1:11
Bring forth grass -- Vegetation began on the third day,

though it did not reach its perfection until after the light of the
sun penetrated. PD4/9
Genesis 1:12
Grass and herb -- Carbonic and nitrogenous gasses caused

extraordinary plant growth during the third creative day,
storing carbon for coal deposits and purifying the atmosphere
for later animal life. F33
Seed after his kind -- Reproducing its own kind only. F32
Genesis 1:13
Were the third day -- The Carboniferous era of 7000

years. F33; PD4/9
Genesis 1:14
Let there be lights -- The appearance of the sun and moon

implies that another ring broke at that time. PD5/10
We are not to assume that the sun and moon shone on the
earth as now; but they were discernible. PD5/10
Genesis 1:16
And God made -- Literally, "caused to shine," not

"created." F33; PD5/10
Two great lights -- The sun, moon and stars were created
long before, but had never before cast their light upon the
earth because of the impenetrable veil. PD5/10
Symbolically, the moon represents the Law covenant rule, and
the sun the New covenant rule. PD5/10
The greater light -- Said by Pope Gregory VII to represent

the pope. B308
To rule the day -- To indicate the time of day. F34 Said
by Pope Gregory VII to represent spiritual things. B308
The lesser light -- Said by Pope Gregory VII to represent
civil power. B308
To rule the night -- Said by Pope Gregory VII to represent
temporal affairs. B308
Genesis 1:19
Were the fourth day -- The Triassic period of 7000 years.

F34
Volume One editions up to 1911 state "Devonian."
Genesis 1:20
Waters bring forth -- This is in harmony with scientific

findings that the beginning of life came from the waters.
PD6/11
This implies a gradual process of nature. CR119:5
The Bible does not assert that God created separately and
individually the myriad kinds of fish and reptiles, but merely
that divine influence, or spirit, brooded, and by divine
purpose the sea brought forth. F35
A measure of evolution is suggested. R5140:4
Abundantly -- The untellable trillions of shellfish which
absorbed the excess of hydrocarbons. F35, F37
The moving creature -- The protoplasm of the Paleozoic
slime may have come into existence through chemical action
of the highly mineralized waters. F35
The creeping creature. E324
That hath life -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being.
R5325:6; E324
Hebrew, "a living soul." The life principle is no different
in mankind from what it is in all other creatures whose breath
is taken in through the nostrils, as distinguishing them from
the fish. HG331:2
Genesis 1:21
Living creature -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being, as of

man. E324, E334
After their kind -- Apparently the various orders of
creation were brought to a state of development and fixity of
species not to be thereafter altered. F36; PD6/11
Genesis 1:23
Were the fifth day -- The Reptilian age of 7000 years.

F36
Genesis 1:24
Let the earth bring forth -- A remarkable form of

expression leaving ample room for the theory of spontaneous
generation which is yet one of the mooted questions in
biology. F54*
Living creature -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being.
E324, E334
Cattle -- Domestic animals as distinguished from others.
F36
Genesis 1:26
Let us -- The plural form calls our attention to the fact that
"The Word was in the beginning with God." (John 1:2)
R1609:3
In our image -- With similar mental powers of reason,
memory, judgment and will; and moral qualities of justice,
benevolence and love. A174; F722; PD7/13
God's law was written in Adam's heart. R5286:3
He was perfect morally and mentally. CR140:5, CR326:3;
R4965:1, R5284:1
God was manifested in the flesh of Adam. Q452:2; R5286:3
Not in the sense that man is of the divine nature. Q503:2
Not with a mere first glimmer of moral sense as claimed by
Evolutionists. R2835:3
The object of making man an earthly image of his Creator
was that he might be a suitable ruler of earth. R2836:4
So that man might enjoy the Creator and the fruits of his
righteousness to all eternity. R5210:6
Sin has made us to differ from the original image of God.
R5290:6, R5124:5, R5284:1
After our likeness -- King of earth, as God is of the
universe. A174; F39
God being love, Adam was implanted with the quality of love.
R5757:2
Adam and Eve were created in the divine likeness. R5154:6
With no bias, no tendency toward sin, no imperfection of
judgment. CR500:2
Evolution denies that Adam was fit for a trial; ever had one;
or failed and fell from grace; therefore he needed no
redemption. R4792:2
And let them -- Not Adam alone, but all men together.
A245
Have dominion -- Not over each other, but as stated.
A246
The Bible shows man as earth's Lord and ruler with divine
authority over the beasts of the field, the fowls of the air and
the fish of the sea. OV8:4; SM154:T
None of the angels was ever set over anything. R5290:3
Genesis 1:27
So God created man -- Not merely man's body; but man,

an intelligent being. R5611:1
It does not say, "the earth brought forth man," or, "the waters
brought forth man." F39; R5140:5
In no sense implying evolution of man. R5140:3
In his own image- An earthly image of himself. A171;
OV376:2; PD7/13; R5290:3
Like God in that man, too, had a dominion. R5290:6
A free moral agent. OV15:1; R5082:4
The lowest form of man has twice the physical brain capacity
of the highest ape. R3921:4
In us the image is blurred, indistinct. R5082:4; SM428:1
With reasoning faculties and the sense of justice, right and
wrong. HG508:6; F39
In the image of God -- Man was created perfect, upright,
in the divine image. OV8:4, OV145:3; R4611:3
If Adam were imperfect, this language is vain. F40
Would a man take pleasure in sending out a blurred and
defaced painting and widely announce it as an image of
himself, or would he delight in owning and blessing a simple
or idiotic son? R1266:3
Created he them -- The glory and honor not being in its
full sense represented by one of the sexes, but by them both
unitedly. R2836:4
Genesis 1:28
God blessed them -- With everlasting life at their

command if they continued in harmony with God. R4963:3
Earthly dominion was for both man and woman. R1552:2
The divine blessing is given only to that which is perfect.
R3922:4
Said unto them -- The necessity for written language, we
believe, lies in the fact that Adam's race has fallen from the
original, perfect state. R1717:3
Be fruitful -- For 6000 years the divine command has been
in process of fulfillment. OV137:2
The sex division was merely for the propagation of the race
and not permanent. OV383:1
Propagation of the race was not in any sense a transgression
or the transgression of our first parents. R2836:5
God gave this instruction before man transgressed; thus it
would be no transgression to bring forth children. HG733:2
These words were addressed to the natural man, not to the
Church. R3922:5
Replenish the earth -- Fill the earth. OV137:2; D648;
R2344:6, R2836:5
When the earth has been filled, procreative powers will be
eliminated and the race will be composed of perfect units, as
Adam was before Eve was created. R2836:5
God's ultimate purpose did not contemplate filling the earth
with a dead race. R1516:1*
And subdue it -- Develop it. SM414:2
The garden of Eden only had been subdued. CR425:1
Had our first parents not sinned they would have been able to
complete the subjugation of the earth without losing their
Edenic home. CR429:4; R3922:5
The subduing of the earth has been accomplished by convict
labor-all mankind. CR66:5
And have dominion -- Like God. PD7/13; R5290:6

Adam and the Logos were the only ones who were in any
sense over anything. R5290:6
Illustrated by Nebuchadnezzar's dream of a tree. (Dan. 4)
B93
See similar language of the passage in which Nebuchadnezzar
was made representative head of human dominion. (Dan.
2:37, 38) B96; HG49:1
Every living thing -- No intimation that the animals were
wild, vicious, at enmity with man. R5574:3
Genesis 1:29
Shall be for meat -- Presumably animal food, now eaten

with the Lord's sanction and necessary because of human
weakness, will not be eaten in the coming age. R2836:6
It was not until after the flood that the Lord sanctioned the
eating of animal food. (Gen. 9:1-4) R2836:6
Genesis 1:30
There is life -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being, as of man.

E325; HG331:2
Genesis 1:31
That he had made -- Adam was "the son of God."

R1609:6
Not merely commenced to make, but completed. A174
It was very good -- Adam was physically, mentally and
morally perfect, satisfactory to God. A174; E406; CR427:3;
HG578:3, HG131:2
Contrary to Evolutionists. R5154:3
Crowning masterpiece of mundane creation. R5140:3
No specimen of remote antiquity yet discovered is inferior to
the lowest of existing men, showing conclusively that there
has been a fall. R3921:4
The garden of Eden was brought to full perfection; the rest of
the earth was in the condition in which God intended it to be.
Q232:1
The physical earth is a good storehouse of blessings, a good
place for the exercise of man's powers, for his discipline and
development and for his everlasting home and dominion.
R1609:3
Were the sixth day -- It was toward the close of the sixth
day that God created man. PD7/13
Each of these ages of creation was a period of 7000 years, the
whole period up to the time of man was six periods, or 42,000
years. Q633:1; R5768:2
Genesis 2
Genesis 2:1
Finished -- God finished his creative work. R2837:4

Genesis 2:2
On the seventh day -- The seventh period of 7000 years,

whose known length furnishes the clue to the length of the
other six creative days. R1731:5; F50; Q758:3, Q759:2;
R5768:2
During the last thousand years of the seventh day earth will
be restored to paradise condition and man to God's image.
R5139:3
He rested -- At the beginning of the great seventh day God
rested from his work of creating; this has continued ever
since. PD8/15; Q759:2; R1731:5, R5768:2
To give the Son the honor of finishing the work. F47
This great rest day of Jehovah has been man's work week,
each day 1000 years long. R5768:3
Genesis 2:3
And sanctified it -- Throughout God's plan six periods of

equal length were to be followed by a seventh period of
special blessing, as illustrated in the seventh day, or rest day;
the seventh year, or rest year; and the seventh thousand-year
day, or Day of Restitution. (See note on Ex. 16:23) R1609:6
He had rested -- God rested from creating. He did not
actively employ his power to overthrow sin and uplift
mankind, but left it in the hands of the Redeemer, Jesus.
PD8/15
Meanwhile he permitted sin and evil to flourish. R4058:5
Genesis 2:4
These are -- As a good illustration of the folly of so-called

Higher Critics, see their comments on this verse. R3397:5*
The start of the second account of the work of creation.
Q758:5
The generations -- Developments or details. F38; Q758:5
In the day -- Not 24 hours but a long, definite period; as
we speak of Luther's day, or Judgment day. A139
Grasping the whole as one larger epoch-day, including the
work of the six already enumerated. Q758:5
The LORD God made -- By his energy, exercised through
his Son. E182; Q758:5
Genesis 2:5
Not caused it to rain -- The earth was still enveloped in

the last canopy or watery veil which came down in Noah's
day. F25; R5159:2
Noah manifested his faith in his building of the ark in
obedience to divine direction. R4386:5
The whole earth was like a great hothouse. F24; PD16/25
Genesis 2:6
A mist -- No rain before the flood; vegetation sustained by

a mist. R3933:6
Genesis 2:7
LORD God formed man -- It is not said of man, "Let the

earth bring forth," or "Let the seas swarm." F39
Dust of the ground -- Producing an earthly creature, as the
same energy operating on spirit substances produced angels.
E105
What God formed out of the dust of the earth was not man,
but merely a form, or body, that would be made into man.
R5611:1
The first man, root or life-giver of the race, is of the earth,
earthy; the second man, root or life-giver of the race, is the
Lord from heaven at his second advent. E137, E453
And breathed -- Naphach, inflated, blew. E319
The breath of life -- Neshamah, life power Caiyah,
lives. E319
The same breath of life common to all breathing animals.
CR170:1; Q667:1; R5611:1; HG330:1
Vitality, the power to live. R5611:2; CR338:5*
And man became -- Man is a soul, not that he has a soul.
E322, R5166:1
A living soul -- Nephesh, sentient being, as other
creatures. E322
A being capable of sensation, perception and thought.
HG330:2
The union of a body and a life principle. R5611:2, R5612:2,
R5166:1
The entire man, a thinking person. OV137:2,4; R4774:4,5;
CR170:2, CR397:6
An animal or earthly soul. OV137:2; R4774:3
Defined by a Methodist Episcopal Bishop as "Without
interior or exterior, without body, shape or parts; and you
could put a million of them in a nutshell." E321; Q666:6
Genesis 2:8
Planted a garden -- A paradise, soon to be restored, and

into which the dying thief shall come, as promised. F668
God foresaw that man would sin so he left the earth in an
imperfect condition, except the garden of Eden. R4973:1
God foresaw that if the earth were perfected the death
struggle would be longer. R5058:1
There he put the man -- The perfection of man and of the
earth was represented in Eden when Adam was in his Maker's
image. PD8/15
Genesis 2:9
To grow every tree -- Every kind of tree. A209

The tree of life -- Which would have sustained life
perfectly. A209
Genesis 2:10
A river -- Might represent the human race. R4240:6*

Parted -- The human race has gone out of Eden because of
sin, and it has been divided into four classes. R4240:6*
Genesis 2:11
Gold -- Symbol of the divine nature. T18; R4240:6*
Genesis 2:13
Gihon -- Corresponding to the servants before the throne--

touching a symbolic Ethiopia, representing servitude. R4240.6*
Genesis 2:14
Hiddekel -- Flowing toward Assyria, the world, the

restitution class. R4240:6*
Euphrates -- Symbol of the Second Death class.
R4240:6*
Symbol of the world of mankind in Rev. 16. B209; R718:6,
R4699:4
Genesis 2:15
The man -- Holy, pure and free from sin, with every
favorable prospect. R4963:3
Garden of Eden -- Presumably the site is in Mesopotamia,
in the valleys of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. OV68:3
Genesis 2:16
Of every tree -- Life-sustaining trees. R4792:5
Genesis 2:17
But -- The provision (of life) was conditional, dependent

upon man's obedience. R4792:5
Tree of knowledge -- Not one tree, but one kind of trees.
Q6:2
Mankind has learned evil first. R5058:4
Not eat of it -- Had Adam and Eve remained obedient this
restriction would doubtless have been lifted in due time.
R3925:3; PD10/17
The headship of Jehovah was thus expressed to Adam in his
perfect condition. R1075:2*
For In the day -- One day with the Lord is as a thousand
years. (2 Pet. 3 :8) R5417:6, R4552:1; F332; Q762:5
Adam died within the 1000-year day of the Lord's reckoning.
(2 Pet. 3:8) HGI20:2
Came under the death sentence. R4551:6
That thou -- The Nephesh, sentient being, soul. E400
Shalt surely die - Dying thou shalt die. A140; OV207:1;
SM62:T, R4964:1, R5774:2
The death of the soul, the entire being. HG654:1
Much less horrible than if it had read, "living thou shalt live
in eternal torment." HG650:3
The death penalty was a just penalty. OV16:3, OV405:4;
CR429:4
Physically, mentally and morally. R5429:6, R5774:2; E407;
SM96:T, R5284:1
With no intimation of any release. R5149:2; A154; R5623:6
The penalty included sickness, sorrow, pain, dying and death.
OV131:2
With no suggestion of torment afterwards. OV376:2,
OV303:4, OV288:3; R5063:6, 5635:6; F333; SM28:1;
CR269:4, CR458:3
Implying everlasting life if not disobedient. R4551:6; E22
Adam experienced 930 years of dying. CR278:6; R4551:6;
SM503:1
This penalty has continued 6000 years. R4973:1, R5429:6,
R5760:2, R5919:5; OV329:4
The dying process began immediately. OV299:1; R4551.6,
R5149:2; Q218:T
Death is the divine sentence for disobedience. SM110:1;
R4792:1, R5768:2, R5972:2
The death penalty could not be increased by any subsequent
sins. R5149:3
Adam alone had been tried and condemned; and all will be
released by the obedience of one, Christ. R4552:3
The death penalty did not change Adam's nature. OV288:3
The penalty against Adam must be met before the world could
be blessed. R4964:1
If Jesus had failed in any degree, the death penalty would
have been upon him also. R5551:3
Satan was merely ostracized, while man was subjected to the
full penalty of the divine law. OV16:1
We were condemned to death, and we were redeemed,
without our consent or knowledge. R4552:3
A clear declaration of the Creator that only a perfect and
clean creation shall be accounted worthy to abide forever.
R1610:2
Death is not a friend, but an enemy. R15:2
Would it be just thus to sentence a being who was only a little
above the beast? R2835:5
Genesis 2:18
Meet for him -- Adam was so far superior to all other

creatures that he had no companionship amongst them.
R3922:3
Genesis 2:19

man. E325, E334
Genesis 2:20
And Adam -- In the two years before the fall. C127

To every beast -- The perfect man had perfect control over
all the brute creation. R2374:5
Genesis 2:21
One of his ribs -- Implying separation of some of his

qualities. F497
Indicating that when the work of restitution is complete, all
will be as Adam was originally. T101
Closed up the flesh -- Typifying that the Church, the Bride of
Christ, was formed from his wounded side as a result of the
deep sleep of death which came upon our Lord Jesus.
R1388:1
Genesis 2:22
Made he a woman -- Eve, type of the Church. E140

Predominating in the sympathetic tendencies. R5141:2
The creation of Mother Eve is indicated as having been
accomplished in the beginning of the seventh day. R5140:5;
PD9/16; F37
The time spent by Adam and Eve before sin entered is not
counted as part of the six days of evil. B127, B128;
R1980:6
Mother Eve was a portion of Adam, separated for the purpose
of the propagation of the race. PD9/16
Mother Eve had no standing with God except as a part of
Adam; so the Church has no standing with God except
through the sacrifice of Jesus. R5719:3
The object of woman's creation was to be a suitable help for
man. R1551:3
An intelligent, sympathetic companion. R1551:6
Genesis 2:23
Taken out of Man -- They twain were one; neither one

was complete without the other. The feminine qualities of
Adam's perfection he still possessed in Mother Eve. PD9/16
Genesis 2:24
Unto his wife -- Marriage is honorable in all. (Heb. 13:4)

S104
They shall be one -- The figure of Adam and Eve as
typifying the Lord Jesus and his Bride ends here, where, the
twain are made one. R1388:3
Genesis 3
Genesis 3:1
Now the serpent -- Satan possessed the serpent. R5150:4

Was more subtle -- Did not creep, but was next in
intelligence to man. R5238:3
And he -- This was evidently the time of Satan's fall.
R2839:6
Said -- Perhaps by his actions: "Actions speak louder than
words." PD10/17; OV299:2; R3925:2, R5150:4, R5238:5
Probably the serpent ascended the tree and ate of its fruit
under Satan's guidance. R3925:5
Unto the woman -- His first ambassador, and often used as
his mouthpiece, as evidenced by Spiritism and Christian
Science. Exalted by him in Egypt as Isis, in Assyria as
Ashtaroth, in Greece as Diana, in Pagan Rome as Juno, and in
Mariolatry. F266
Posing as her friend. R3925:4
Genesis 3:2
Of the trees -- In the garden were all kinds of trees.

R3925:3
Genesis 3:3
In the midst -- One of marked peculiarity. R3925:3
Genesis 3:4
Not surely die -- This is the first affirmation of the

doctrine of inherent immortality. SM129:1; OV215:T,
R1642:6
This is the foundation of ancestor worship, purgatory and
Spiritism. SM99:1; R3926:3
Satan probably believed this lie, having first deceived himself
as most deceivers do. R1686:5
Whoever may be inclined to condemn Mother Eve should
reflect that the great majority today are believing Satan's lie
and rejecting God's message. R3926:2
Error, combined with Satan's falsehood, has made the waters
of truth brackish, unpalatable, unhealthful. R4758:4,
R5801:5
Christian Science is in full agreement with this lie. R4743:3
A falsehood perpetuated by the teaching that death is merely
an avenue to another plane of consciousness. HG700:1*
Humanity of every grade and language has accepted Satan's
deceptive statement. SM110:1; R4792:1
Our first parents chose to believe Satan and the responsibility
was their own. God wished to teach a great lesson to angels
and to men. OV394:1
Satan has very assiduously propagated this lie ever since.
R5909:6; SM129:1
From the beginning Satan was a murderer and a liar. (John
8:44). Q765:4
Genesis 3:5
Shall be opened -- Confidence in their Creator should

have been complete, and such disloyal thoughts promptly
spurned. R5150:4
Shall be as gods -- Shall be wise as gods. R2180:3
If you have a theory you want to prove to yourself, the great
Adversary will be ready to assist you in every conceivable
manner. R1223:1
Good and evil -- She did indeed get a great increase of
knowledge, but with condemnation, sorrow, pain and tears.
R3925:5
Any knowledge which may come to us along any lines out of
accord with the divine testimony would be costly knowledge
indeed. CR65:4
Genesis 3:6
Was good for food -- The serpent ate of the forbidden fruit
in the sight of the woman and then manifested its wisdom, its
sagacity. PD10/17; OV299:2; R5150:4
To make one wise -- Satan endeavored to show that the
fruit was most desirable to give wisdom, to make them as
gods. PD10/17; OV15:6; Q706:T, R5150:4, R5238:6
Ambition to appear wiser and abler than others is a danger
which especially besets the elders. F267
Satan's wisdom is "earthly, sensual, devilish." (James 3:15)
R2180:3
Took of the fruit -- Originally sin was inspired by Eve's
desire to secure knowledge in advance of the Creator's
arrangement. SM156:1
She surmised that her husband would not consent, so she ate
alone. PD10/1 7; R5150:5
She was not deceived as respects the wrong doing, but was
deceived regarding the results. R5150:5
And he did eat -- The first tragedy of earth was
disobedience to God. R5150:2
Adam could discern right from wrong, not from experience,
but from the perfection of his being. CR500:2
"The man was not deceived;" he ate knowingly, to share his
wife's penalty; he was a suicide. CR378:4; R5150:5,
R2841:5; PD10/17
No doubt God would have arranged some way for the
recovery of his companion. R3926:1
Genesis 3:7
They were naked -- Eating the forbidden fruit evidently so

engulfed our first parents in passion as to lead to a misuse of a
knowledge of which previously they had not been entirely
ignorant. R2840:3
Fig leaves together -- Indicating penitence and an effort to
establish and maintain virtue. R1610:5
Aprons -- Typifying our own righteousness, the flimsy,
worthless cove-ring for sins. R387:6
Genesis 3:8
Voice of the LORD God -- The Logos, the word or voice

of God, our Lord Jesus in his prehuman condition. R5622:4;
Q361:2
Genesis 3:10
Hid -- Motivated by the spirit of fear. R5093:6
Genesis 3:12
And I did eat -- Adam did not blame the transgression

upon his wife, he simply told the truth plainly. R2841:4
Genesis 3:14
Unto the serpent -- Figuratively Satan, symbolizing all the

powers of evil, everything adverse to humanity. R1610:5,
R4963:3
Upon thy belly -- Figurative of Satan; no longer upright,
respected and honored among the angelic sons of God, as
previously. R1610:5
No injustice was done to the serpent; God made the serpent a
synonym for sin, and provided a lesson in humility. R5238:6,
R5239:4
Shalt thou go -- Literally, the serpent experienced some
kind of change of form and locomotion. R3926:4
Dust shalt thou eat -- Another way of saying "Lick the
dust," "Bite the dust.". R2842:1
Genesis 3:15
And her seed -- Jews and Christians understand the seed

of the woman to be the Messiah. CR267:5, R431:3
Christ. SM88:1; F353
Christ and the Church, "the God of peace shall bruise Satan
under your feet shortly." (Rom. 16:20) OV224:1; Q642:4;
CR461:6
Not until the "marriage" when Christ and his Bride are made
one will the promised seed be perfected. HG38:3; HG343:3
It -- Christ, the seed of the woman, not the seed of the
man. R1610:6
Bruise thy head -- Bring vital injury , crush out all evil in
due time. R5768:3; SM44:2; OV184:1, OV305:5;
CR460:2, CR459:4; R4451:3, R4963:3, R3926:6
An intimation of the ultimate recovery of mankind from the
power of Satan. A57, A98; SM88:1; PD12/20; R4964:6
The man Jesus did not bruise the serpent's head. CR460:2
Christ and his followers must be faithful unto death before
they can enjoy their victory of crushing the evil one. R2778:1
There can be no crushing of the evil one and his power until
all the sacrifice for sin, the ransom price, shall be paid.
R2778:1
Bruise his heel -- Not injure him vitally. CR460:2;
R3926:4
Genesis 3:16
And thy conception -- The race has multiplied more

heavily as it has become more degenerate and weak. F41
In sorrow -- As a part of the curse. F558
And thy desire -- Inclination to seek and obey righteous
authority. F493
Rule over thee -- This prophecy, that man in his fallen
state would exercise tyranny over woman, has been
abundantly fulfilled. R1548:6
Genesis 3:17
Because thou hast -- "Adam was not deceived." (1 Tim.

2:14). E22
Cursed -- Unprepared to perpetuate human life. R3031:3
That is why we have all the disadvantages in the world.
CR201:2
God left the earth outside Eden in an imperfect condition.
R4973:1
Is the ground -- All the ground outside this specially
prepared garden in which you have been living, and from
which you are now to be expelled. CR66:1; R4973:1,
R5068:1, R3031:6
For thy sake -- The earth in general is in its present
imperfect condition for man's profit and experience.
R1124:6, R5058:1; Q265:2
Idleness is injurious to fallen beings. PD34/45; R5376:3;
A169, A337
The poverty of the world has assisted in keeping mankind
back from greater depths of iniquity. R5058:1
Shalt thou eat -- By feeding upon the less nourishing and
poisonous foods of the unprepared earth man gradually
suffered the penalty of death. HG509:6, HG510:1
Genesis 3:18
Thorns also and thistles -- Obtainable without labor,

choking the herbs which would only come by forceful labor.
R1476:6
Genesis 3:19
Sweat of thy face -- The curse, the result of sin. R4991:5,

R5112:3, R5154:6
Being done away with by modern inventions. Bviii
For dust thou art -- And in no sense of the word a spirit
being. R2841:1
Shalt thou return -- With no hint of any subsequent
torment. SM28:1; R4552:2, R5063:6; F333; CR269:5
To die by gradual processes. R5417:6
A death penalty was effected by his being cast out of Eden.
CR278:2; SM88:T
There could be no escape from the divine sentence except
through Jesus. R5578:3
Genesis 3:21
Made coats of skins -- Suggested a future covering

provided by the death of some unknown Redeemer--the seed
of the woman. R5768:5; A57; R1614:2
Genesis 3:22
One of us -- The Elohim. R5210:4

To know good -- Before the entrance of sin into the world.
A120
And evil -- As a result of the curse. A120
For Adam and Eve, first good, then evil; for their posterity,
first evil, then good. HG393:5
Proves that God knows good and evil. R5210:4
Also of the tree -- Trees or grove (plural). Q6:2; E340,
E390
And live for ever -- By eating continuously they would
have lived forever, even though sinners. Q6:2; R5150:1;
E340
Though Adam was perfect in his organism it was necessary
for him to sustain life by partaking of the fruit of the trees of
life. HG330:3
Genesis 3:23
Sent him forth -- So that the death penalty might take

effect. A209; R4792:5, R5417:3
Genesis 3:24
Drove out the man -- The death sentence was upon all of
Adam's race from the time he was cast out of Eden. R5150:1,
R5179:2
Of the tree -- Grove, woods, orchard. R2840:1
Genesis 4
Genesis 4:1
And bare Cain -- Cain means "Acquired;" no doubt Eve

considered that in him she had acquired the promised seed or
deliverer. R2776:6
The period of gestation was one of much mental distress to
his mother; she doubtless marked him with discontent and
selfishness. R5150:3
With so noble a parentage, he must have been a great man in
many ways. R5150:3
Genesis 4:2
His brother Abel -- Abel means "Nourisher" or "Feeder,"

and probably signifies that he was looked to as a helper in the
battle for bread. R2777:1
It is fair to suppose that Abel was born under more favorable
conditions than was Cain; by that time Adam and Eve were
more reconciled to their fate. R5150:3
Cain was a tiller -- The children of the first man were
evidently far above monkeys and apes. R3927:3
Genesis 4:3
In process of time -- Both sons having in the meantime

doubtless reared large families. R3927:3
That Cain -- Typified fleshly Israel and the tare class.
R2778:3
Fruit of the ground -- Typifying offerings of works.
R2778:3
Not acceptable to God because it could not show the
necessity of a blood sacrifice. HG508:1
Unto the LORD -- The children of the first man were not
worshipers of idols, or of the sun, moon or stars. R3927:3
Genesis 4:4
And Abel -- Typifying spiritual Israel and the wheat class.

R2778:4
"The Non-Resistant One" in the Abydos tablet. PD21/30
And of the fat -- Symbol of loving zeal. T57
Our best powers. T45
Respect unto Abel -- Because he had first sought the mind
of the Lord: "By faith Abel offered a more excellent
sacrifice." (Heb. 11:4). R1614:2
To his offering -- Because it typified the necessity of the
death of a redeemer as a sacrifice for sins. A57; PD12/20;
R5200:3
Doubtless manifesting his acceptance by fire, as in the case of
Elijah's offering in the presence of the priests of Baal.
R2777:2
Genesis 4:5
Had not respect -- This teaches that without shedding of

blood there can be no remission of sins. PD12/20; Q609:2
Cain was very wroth -- Instead of appealing to the Lord to
know why his sacrifice was not acceptable. R3928:3
He did not have the proper respect for God. R5151:2;
Q609:2
And -- Instead of humbly and lovingly congratulating his
brother and profiting by the knowledge gained. R2777:4,
R5151:2
His countenance fell -- Doubtless knowing of his parents'
hopes that he should be the deliverer and being therefore
filled with pride, chagrin and envy toward his younger
brother. R2777:2
Genesis 4:6
Why art thou wroth? -- The inability to be angry under

proper cause would imply imperfection; but Cain had no just
cause to be angry with his brother. R3928:2
Genesis 4:7
Sin -- The spirit of Satan, which if received will displace

the right spirit. R3928:4
Lieth at the door -- Crouching, ready to spring into your
heart at the next misstep. R3928:4, R5151:2
If thou doest not well -- Now that you know what would
be acceptable as a sacrifice. HG508:1
Shall be his desire -- Satan's desire. R3929:2
Shalt rule over him -- Cain's proper course would have
been to resist the devil. R5151:2, R3929:2
You can get the victory over this wrong attitude if you but
desire. R3042:5; HG508:2
Genesis 4:8
And Cain -- Illustrating hatred of one's brother -- murder.

R3044:2; SM223:2
That Cain -- Probably thinking thus to remove his rival.
R2777:3
He allowed anger, malice, hatred and strife to burn in his
heart, and thus became a murderer. PD12/20
And slew him -- Satan's first attempt to destroy the
woman's seed. R5848:1*
Genesis 4:9
1 know not -- The sin of murder led to the sins of lying

and insolence. R1614:3
My brother's keeper -- Every member of the New
Creation is his brother's keeper. "We ought to lay down our
lives for the brethren." (1 John 3:16) "And to love our
neighbors as ourselves." (Matt. 19:19). R3929:4
Genesis 4:10
Thy brother's blood -- The blood is the life. (Lev. 17:11)

R3930:2
Crieth unto me -- Figuratively cries for vengeance.
R3930:1
Sooner or later the divine penalty will be meted out. R5151:4
Genesis 4:11
Cursed -- God condemned the sinner; but nothing

indicates bitterness or hatred on God's part. R5150:3
Genesis 4:13
Than I can bear -- A haughty, proud, ambitious and self

confident spirit is the one which leads at last to
disappointment. R2778:5
Genesis 4:14
And from thy face -- Indicating that he appreciated God's

favor. R1614:5
Shall I be hid -- If there be even a slight disposition to
penitence, God fosters and cherishes it. R1614:5
Genesis 4:15
A mark -- He was birth marked with a selfish disposition.

R5150:3, R5700:6; PD12/21
Genesis 4:17
His wife -- Undoubtedly one of his sisters. R3042:4;

Q46:2
He builded a city -- A house or villa for himself and his
family. R3944:2
Genesis 4:19
Two wives -- Violating the true marriage relations.

R1615:1
Genesis 4:20
Jabal -- Kakan of the Abydos tablet. PD21/30
Genesis 4:25
Seth -- His name indicates that his parents hoped he would

be the promised seed. PD14/23
Indeed the hope that she might be the mother of the long-promised
"seed of the woman" seems to have filled the heart
of Eve's daughters all the way down to Mary. R1175:3
Genesis 5
Genesis 5:1
Adam -- Mena in the Abydos tablet. PD21/30

The likeness of God -- With similar faculties of will,
reason, etc. A201
Adam was a son of God, he had the spirit of the Father.
R5452:3
God was manifested in the flesh of father Adam. Q452:2
Genesis 5:2
Their name Adam -- The headship remaining with the

male. T101
Genesis 5:3
Lived 130 years -- The first link in the true Bible

chronology. B43
His own likeness -- All his posterity have been born
blemished and imperfect. CR490:4, CR498:6
Genesis 5:5
Were 930 years -- Nearly to the end of the first 1000 year
day: "One day with the Lord is as a thousand years." (2 Pet.
3:8) Q762:5; R4792:5
Adam could, by obedience to the divine law, prolong the
process of his dying; so may his children. R5149:3
One half now die under 10 years of age and the average is
only 33 years despite medical skill. E406
Genesis 5:6
Lived 105 years -- Link No.2 in the true Bible

chronology. B43
Genesis 5:9
Lived 90 years -- Link No.3 in the true Bible chronology.

B43
Genesis 5:12
Lived 70 years -- Link No. 4 in the true Bible chronology.

B43
Genesis 5:15

B43
Genesis 5:18
Lived 162 years Link No.6 in the true Bible chronology.

B43
Enoch -- Possibly representing perfect man when he will
not die. Q262:T
Genesis 5:21

B43
Genesis 5:24
Walked with God -- He did not stand still, but "walked."

R74:5
And he was not -- He disappeared from amongst men.
R3417:3, R4757:2
For God took him -- We do not know where, but we do
know that it was not to heaven. "No man has ascended into
heaven." (John 3:13). R3417:4, R5772:2; Q713:4, Q261:3
He did not die (Heb. 11:5). R619:6; Q773:2, Q261:3;
R838:5
In Enoch's case the execution of the death sentence was
deferred, but not annulled. R3378:1, R2153:2, R838:5
Enoch will not get restitution blessings until the full Christ is
complete. Q714:T
Genesis 5:32
Shem, Ham and Japheth -- Not listed in order of their

birth. HG104:3
Genesis 6
Genesis 6:1
It came to pass -- It might safely be estimated at about

1000 years after Adam's creation. SM193:2
Genesis 6:2
The sons of God -- Materialized angels. OV17:3;

SM97:2; R4880:1, R4976:1, R5706:3
Some of the angels to whom was committed the supervision
of mankind prior to the flood. R2171:3
They were permitted to see what they could do for the uplift
of humanity; or, rather, to demonstrate that the downward
tendency of sin is incurable except in the manner which God
has already arranged. R5043:2
While angels are sons of God they were not directly begotten
by God but were created by our Lord Jesus. Q19:2
That they were fair -- Jude 6 & 7 clearly shows the nature
of the sin of these angels when, after mentioning them, it
says: "Even as Sodom and Gomorrah ... in like manner, giving
themselves over to fornication and going after strange flesh."
HG724:6
And they -- Being largely seduced by the evil of mankind.
R5429:5; R1680:4
Probably at the instigation of Satan, who thus planned to
outwit the Almighty and create a race that would live forever.
R5429:5, R1686:5
Took them wives -- In violation of the divine arrangement
for them; apparently without consulting anyone. OV249:2;
R4880:2, R5115:6; SM193:2; OV299:6
Thus they became the fathers of a new race, distinct from
Adam's. PD15/24
For the purpose of attempting to uplift mankind. HG512:2
The result of the angels' loss of faith in God's wisdom and
power. R5115:6
It is reasonable to think that when the fallen angels regain
power they will use it in an immoral manner. SM118:2
But marriage between men and women is not in any scripture
suggested as displeasing to God. (Heb. 13:4). S104
Genesis 6:3
Yet his days -- His age limit, as illustrated by Moses' life.

D604
Genesis 6:4
There were giants -- The children of this combination of

angelic vitality grafted upon the human stock were a race of
giants. PD15/24; OV299:7; R4880:2, R4976:1, R5043:3
Physical and mental giants; brutish, sensual tyrants. R4797:2;
PD15/24; OV300:T, SM62:3, SM64:1; R5160:1
They possessed greater virility than Adam's race. OV17:5
They had no right to existence, since they were born contrary
to divine will, or law. SM64:1
Nephilim, fallen ones, unrecognized by God, destroyed in
mercy to Adam's race. E104
They were in no sense of the word Adamic stock; hence, in
no sense of the word covered by the ransom. R3341:6
This new race consisted exclusively of males, propagated
through the human female. SM62:2
Typifying the trusts, the children of professed Christian
governments, which today have the whole world in their
grasp. R3935:2, R4797:2, R5457:3
Sons of God -- It was approximately during the 655 years
preceding the flood that the angelic sons of God took to
themselves wives. SM193:2
Their illicit progeny was blotted out with the flood and they
themselves were afterward restrained from the liberty of
assuming physical bodies and isolated from the holy angels.
R2171:4
Disobedient angels imprisoned in the days of Noah. OV17:3;
SM192:3
Became mighty men -- The father gives life, and the
mother organism, as illustrated in the birth of Christ. E103
Men of renown -- Intellectually strong, but morally
perverted. SM547:1; R5160:2
Because of the vigor of their angelic fathers. E104
Genesis 6:5
Evil continually -- And progressively, proving the

necessity of divine interposition if man is to be recovered.
A71
Not merely from human depravity, but at the connivance of
some of the angels. R5160:1
Man took pleasure in still further degrading himself instead of
loathing his sinful condition and looking to God for relief.
SM194:1; OV249:3; R2026:6
What a mercy that this condition should be brought
completely to an end. SM62:3
Genesis 6:6
Repented the LORD -- The Lord changed his course of

dealing, not his mind. The matter is so stated as to convey to
the general reader as much as he is able to comprehend of
God's reasons for changing his course. R2026:6
Genesis 6:7
I will destroy -- The world became so full of corruption

that God destroyed all humanity, and began anew the
propagation of the race from Noah and his family, who had
remained untainted. R5910:1
Genesis 6:9
Perfect -- Uncontaminated by the fallen angels and their

influence. PD16/25; SM97:2, SM118:2; OV301:T,
R4682:2, R5043:4; HG512:2
Noah's family was singled out as exceptional. PD16/ 25
In his generations -- Toledaw, descent, family. R2844:2
Walked with God -- Noah's faith in God was manifested
in his building of the ark in obedience to the divine
instructions. R4386:5
Genesis 6:11
Filled with violence -- The new race was vicious, brutal

and violent, as well as immoral. SM62:3
"As it was in the days of Noah" (Luke 17:26) so it is now.
R3241:6*
Corporate giants will very shortly give mankind a great deal
of trouble and will fill the earth with violence. R2844:4,
R4797:5
Genesis 6:13
I will destroy -- The account of the fall of the angels from

being sons of God to being demons helps us to understand
why God decreed the flood. PD17/26
Genesis 6:14
Rooms shalt thou make -- The Chicago Tribune, Aug. 13,

1883, printed a dispatch from London stating that a paper at
Constantinople reports Turkish commissioners as having
discovered the ark protruding from a glacier on Mt. Ararat.
The interior was found divided into partitions 15 feet high.
R524:3
The oldest records of Babylonia tell the story of the deluge-of
Noah and his ark. R5159:1
Genesis 6:15
This is the fashion -- A design which has been found in

actual practice to yield the best results for safety and stowage.
R3934:2, R3525:4
Length... 300 cubits -- 547.3 feet, by sacred cubit of 21.88
inches. R3679:4*
Breadth... 50 cubits -- 91.2 feet. R3679:4*
Height... 30 cubits -- 54.72 feet. R3679:4*
These dimensions would give a capacity of 2,730,782 cubic
feet, a tonnage of 81,052. R3679:4*, R3934:1; Q778:2
Approximately three or four times the capacity of the largest
vessels now afloat (1901). R2843:1
Providing plenty of room for pairs of all the 244 species of
animals scheduled by Buffon and all the supplies they would
need on the voyage. R3336:2*
Genesis 6:16
A window -- An opening 20 inches high all around the ark

under the eaves. R2843:2; Q778:2
Genesis 6:17
Flood of waters -- God had already arranged that one of

the aqueous "rings" still suspended above the earth should
descend, causing the flood. R4682:1
The account of the deluge is not merely a Bible narrative, but
Is** corroborated by the traditions of all races except the Black
race. R1615:1, R3933:3*
Is the breath -- Ruach, air, spirit, life-power, as in
man. E174, E314
See comment on "Hath life" in Gen. 1:20.
Genesis 6:19
Bring into the ark -- Type of Christ and the power in him
which will replenish and reorganize society. A318
Genesis 7
*Genesis 7:1
Into the ark -- See comment on Gen. 6:19. A318
Genesis 7:6
Was 600 years old -- Link No. 10 in the true Bible

chronology. B43
Genesis 7:7
Son's wives with him -- Noah and his family, with the
ark, represent the Church, lifted up above the whole earth
during the time of trouble, preserved from the terror of the
trouble and afterward coming down from heaven to bless and
replenish the earth. R3757:1
Genesis 7:8
Of clean beasts -- Suitable for human food, such as the

cow, sheep, etc. R2843:2
That are not clean -- Not suitable for human food, such as
the horse and dog. R2843:2
Genesis 7: 10
The flood -- Noah's day is similar to the present time.

R4797:2, R5328:2
Genesis 7:11
Broken up -- The main part of the flood came to the earth

from the poles. PD16/25; R3934:2, R3045:1
Genesis 7:15
Is the BreathRuach, spirit, life-power, as in man.

E174, E314
Genesis 7:17
And the flood -- Now abundantly corroborated by science.

F27
Forty days -- A prominent period of time frequently
recurring in the Bible. HG102:4
Genesis 7:18
The waters prevailed -- The deluge of Noah's day was the

last ring or belt surrounding the earth to fall; it was of pure
water only. PD3/8
Genesis 7:19
All the high hills -- Perhaps merely in the portion of the

earth inhabited by man. R3933:6*
Genesis 7:22
The breath of life -- Ruach neshamah caiyah, breath of

the spirit of life. E314, E319
Genesis 7:24
150 days -- With Gen. 7:11 & Gen. 8:4, a proof that 30
days is the Bible measure for one month. HG50:2
Genesis 8
Genesis 8:1
With him In the ark -- Type of Christ and the power in

him which will replenish and reorganize society. A318
God made a wind -- Ruach, spirit, invisible power, as
in man. E174
Genesis 8:3
The 150 days -- Reasonable and in harmony with

scientific investigation. R5159:5
Genesis 8:4
Rested -- The administration of God was changed, but the

earth remained. R10:2
Genesis 8:9
Found no rest -- It will take a certain time, after the time

of trouble, to bring in God's favor of peace and blessing.
R5328:2
Genesis 8:11
Was an olive leaf -- Symbol of peace. D651

Indicating that the blessing of the Lord was bringing
vegetation. R5328:3
Genesis 8:12
Returned not again -- Picturing the end of the trouble and

the full inauguration of the new dispensation. R5328:3
Genesis 8:13
And first year -- Noah having just completed 600 full

years. R2059:2
The first day -- Illustrating the accuracy of Bible
chronology. B43
Genesis 8:21
The LORD smelled -- Ruach, exercised invisible

power, spirit. E174
Genesis 8:22
Earth remaineth -- "The earth abideth forever." (Eccl.

1:4). PD18/26
Seedtime and harvest -- Flowers and vegetation will die
and revive perennially. R2640:6
Shall not cease -- But will be everlasting reminders to
mankind of their deliverance from sin and death. R2640:6
Genesis 9
Genesis 9:3
Be meat for you -- During the period of human weakness

resulting from the fall. R2836:6
For food, but not for sport. R3045:1
Genesis 9:4
Flesh with the life -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being,

existence. E325
Which is the blood -- Which is represented by the blood.
E325
Genesis 9:6
Sheddeth man's blood -- Although not obligatory, God

would approve of the execution of the death sentence upon
the murderer. Q500:T
This rule held good from the days of Noah, both for Israel and
for today. R5645:4
The image of God -- God was manifested in the flesh of
father Adam. Q452:2
Genesis 9:10

man. E325, E334
Out of the ark -- Type of Christ. A318
Genesis 9:11
Destroy the earth -- The existing order of things. B162

It was not the earth which came to an end, merely that
condition of things which prevailed prior to the deluge.
PD18/26
Genesis 9:12
Living creature -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being, as

of man. E325, E334
Genesis 9:13
My bow in the cloud -- A pledge that God would never

again destroy mankind by a flood. PD19/28
The new heavens and earth are God's promise, of which the
bow in the clouds was a pledge. R1614:5
Previous to the flood, the watery canopy enveloping the earth
prevented the bow from forming. F28
Of a covenant -- An unconditional one. R3108:3
Giving to him dominion over the earth as he had done with
Adam. R1614:2
Genesis 9:15

man. E325, E334
Genesis 9:16

man. E325, E334
Genesis 9:21
And was drunken -- The breaking of the last canopy at the

time of the flood produced an acidulous condition of the
atmosphere tending towards ferment, and directly affecting
human longevity. This ferment changed the character of the
grape product, making it alcoholic. Noah's intoxication was
the result of ignorance of this change. R2533:4; PD19/28;
Q777:3, Q809:3, Q265:3
Genesis 9:25
Cursed -- Possible start of Negro race. R2344:6
Genesis 10
Genesis 10:2
Sons of Japheth -- Supposed to have settled Europe.

D556
Genesis 10:6
Sons of Ham -- Supposed to have settled Northern Africa.

D556
Genesis 10:10
Babel -- Antitype of nominal gospel church. R718:2

Calneh -- Excavated in 1903. R3220:1*
Genesis 10:18
Canaanites -- The sons of Canaan. R5169:6

Genesis 10:22
Children of Shem -- Supposed to have settled Western

Asia. D556
Genesis 11
Genesis 11:4
And a tower -- As a protection against further disasters

similar to the flood. R2846:2
Losing confidence in God, the people began the construction
of the tower of Babel. PD22/33
A name -- Such as Catholic, Methodist, Episcopal, etc.
R718:2
Genesis 11:7
Confound their language -- The diversity of language is

an effectual barrier to prevent mankind from combining for
the accomplishment of his own selfish or sinful purposes.
PD22/33
Genesis 11:9
Called Babel -- Confusion, type of Babylon, Christendom.

D26
Called by the natives Babil, the gate of God. D24
Picture of a religious "tower of Babel," primarily Papacy.

SM405:1
Confound the language -- This corresponds well with the
Protestant Reformation movement. SM405:2
Genesis 11:10
Two years after the flood -- Link No.11 in the true Bible
chronology. B44
Therefore Shem was not the oldest son of Noah. HG1O4:2
Genesis 11:11
500 years -- Longevity immediately shortened after the

flood. R534:5
Genesis 11:12

B44
Genesis 11:14

B44
Genesis 11:16

B44
Genesis 11:18

B44
Genesis 11:20

B44
Genesis 11:22
Lived 30 years -- Link No.17 in the true Bible

chronology. B44
Genesis 11:24

B44
Genesis 11:26
And begat Abram -- Haran, the eldest, was born when

Terah was 70; while Abram, the youngest, was not born until
Terah was 130. Abram is mentioned first because of his
greater prominence. R2855:1, R5177:3, R1595:2
Lot and Abraham were probably nearly the same age.
R5177:5
Genesis 11:27
Abram -- Terah's youngest son. Q709:5
Genesis 11:29
Took them wives -- Nahor's wife, Milcah, was the

daughter of his brother Haran; and Milcah's granddaughter,
Rebekah, was the wife of Isaac, Abraham's son; showing that
Haran and Nahor were both much older than Abraham.
R2855:4, R5177:6
Genesis 11:30
Sarai was barren -- Corresponding to the long deferred

coming of Christ. PD23/34
Genesis 11:31
And Lot -- About Abram's own age. Lot had "sons-in-law

which married his daughters" (Gen. 19:14) before Isaac was
born. R2855:4, R5177:5
And Sarai -- Probably the daughter of Haran, sister of Lot.
R2846:5
And they went forth -- Probably influenced by the gross
idolatry about them. R3936:1
He did not stop to argue that he could do more good by
remaining among his idolatrous and wicked neighbors.
R3936:4
Ur of the Chaldees -- Now called Mugheir, at which place
the name "Abu Ramu " (Abram) has been found on tablets
recently unearthed. R3935:3
Genesis 11:32
Were 205 years -- Link No.19 in the true Bible

chronology. B44
Genesis 12
Genesis 12:1
Now the LORD had -- Previously, before he left Ur. "The

God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham when he was
in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran." (Acts 7:2)
B45
Said unto Abram -- Individually--not to Terah or Nahor or
Haran or anyone else. R2846:6
To one whose heart was full of trust in God. R5809:5
Abram's name signifies "exalted faith." R5169:3
Thy father's house -- Thy brethren, etc. B45
Genesis 12:3
I will bless them -- Favor them. R3938:5

That bless thee -- That favor thee, Abram, or thy natural
or spiritual seed. R3938:5
And curse him -- Show disfavor toward. R3938:5
All will be destroyed who do not thus become true Israelites.
R5810:4
That curseth thee -- Injureth. R5169:5
That shows disfavor toward thee or thy seed. R3938:5
And in thee -- "And in thy seed, which is Christ." (Gal.
3:16) T83; R5057:3, R4939:3; SM7:1; R5761:4, R5769:5
When your seed shall come. HG120:5
Shall -- In due time. E22
This covenant is unconditional. R3108:3
All of God's dealings with the Israelites were in accord with
this oath. R5285:3
All families -- Not merely the Jews. A58
Every member of our race. CRI40:2; R4715:2
Including those who are in their graves. R5154:1, R4440:5,
R5015:6
Be blessed -- With an opportunity to return to harmony
with God, and with everlasting life. R4557:3, E384;
R4537:6, R4939:3, R5057:3, R5177:6, R5269:4,
R5768:3; SM93:T, SM7:1; OV193:2
This promise was the good root of the olive tree of Rom.
11:17. R5023:3
By the wonderful provisions of the great Sabbath day.
R5072:1
By knowledge, opportunity and assistance. R3108:4
Not by ignoring the law of God, but by being gradually
restored so that they can keep it. T83
By the great King and Priest, Jesus; and by the Church, as
assistant priests and kings, CR250:3
Genesis 12:4
So Abram departed -- "When his father was dead he

removed." (Acts 7:4) B46
Typifying the course of the true Church in coming out of
Babylon. No doubt Abram's relatives all opposed his course,
especially as he "came out not knowing whither he went.
(Heb. 11: 8) R2847:1
Was 75 years old -- At the time the covenant was made
with him. B231
2081 years after the fall in Eden. R3460:2
2081 years before Cornelius' conversion. R3460:2
Out of Haran -- As Stephen declared, "when his father
was dead." (Acts 7:4) B46
Genesis 12:7
And said -- Making the covenant previously promised.

B45; R1617:1
Genesis 12:10
There was a famine -- Which must have greatly tested

Abram's faith. R3938:2
Down into Egypt -- Possibly contrary to the Lord's wishes.
R3938:3
Genesis 12:12
Save thee alive -- History records the case where one of

the kings of Egypt thus forcibly took a beautiful wife away
from her husband. Abram had probably heard of this.
R2848:2
Genesis 12:13
Say, I pray thee -- This is the only blot recorded against

Abram's character. This impartiality establishes the
truthfulness of the Scriptures. R3938:3
Genesis 12:18
Called Abram -- This rebuke from a heathen king

doubtless proved a great blessing to Abram ultimately.
R3938:3
Genesis 13
Genesis 13:7
And the Canaanite -- The Lowlanders. R2848:4

And the Perizzite -- The Highlanders. R2848:4
Genesis 13:8
There be no strife -- "Blessed are the peacemakers."

(Matt. 5:9) R3939:2
Genesis 13:9
Before thee -- "The liberal soul shall be made fat." (Prov.

11:25) R3939:3
Genesis 13:10
Garden of the LORD -- The Dead Sea area is to be

watered by a river from Jerusalem. R2507:3
Genesis 13:11
Then Lot -- Manifesting covetousness and worldly-mindedness,

perhaps from a desire to please his wife and daughters. R3939:4
Genesis 13:14
And the LORD said -- Confirming the covenant

previously made. B45
Genesis 13:15
For all the land -- The promises made to Abram were

earthly. A293; R4966:2, R5171:4, R5859:2; CR116:6
The Ancient Worthies did not look for heavenly things.
HGI31:6
Will I give it -- At a future time from Stephen. (Acts 7:5)
HG131:6
To thee -- Primarily to Abraham himself. R5178:1
Abraham must have a resurrection for God's Word to come
true. R5291:2
To thy seed forever -- Although it was given to them by
Joshua to be their inheritance this did not fulfill the conditions
of the promise. R5178:1
Genesis 13:16
As the dust -- This promise was to an earthly people.

R5171:4
Then -- Implying a far-distant period ample for the
multiplication of the seed. C245
Genesis 13:17
Through the land -- "All the land of Canaan., (Gen. 17:8)

C245
Genesis 13:18
Built there an altar -- In typical acknowledgment of sin

and hope of the coming sin-offering. R2849.5
Genesis 14
Genesis 14:10
Full of slime pits -- Bitumen, sulphur and salt, used in the

destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. R1618:6
Genesis 14:14
Taken captive -- One of the earliest illustrations of slavery

in the Bible. SM157:2
318 -- Implying a general household of at least 1000
persons. R2846:5
Therefore the armies of the five kings were not large.
HG362:1
And pursued them -- The fact that with this small army
Abram could conquer the combined armies of several kings
disproves the contentions of the Higher Critics that the cities
and armies of that day were large. R3944:2
Genesis 14:18
Melchizedek -- Representing our Lord as a glorified

priest. Q484:5, Q485:T
Type of The Christ glorified. SM136:1, SM600:1; F72
Possibly the builder of the Great Pyramid. C322; PD25/36
King of Salem -- Signifies King of Peace, Prince of the
Most High God. SM136:1; Q484:5
Bread and wine -- Abraham partook of the symbolic bread
and wine in conjunction with Melchizedec's blessing.
SM136:1
The priest -- He did not offer sacrifices; but was a type of
the glorified priest. Q484:5
Genesis 14:22
Unto the LORD -- Unto Jehovah. E67

The most high God -- "He is to be feared above all gods."
(1 Chron. 16:25) E67
Genesis 15
Genesis 15:1
Fear not, Abram: -- Do not be afraid of any attempts at

vengeance on the part of the kings you have just conquered.
R3944:3
I am thy shield -- "When he giveth quietness who then can
make trouble." (Job 34:29) R3944:4
Great reward -- In a sense, I will give myself to you and
that will constitute your greatest possible reward. R3944:4
To have God for a friend and counselor and guide is to be
esteemed far beyond every earthly interest and blessing.
R2853:6
Genesis 15:2
Eliezer of Damascus -- Type of the holy Spirit. F171

Genesis 15:5
And tell the stars -- "Star differeth from star in glory." (1

Cor. 15:41) R2067:4
So shall thy seed -- The heavenly seed, the Little Flock.
R2854:5
Including also the Great Company. R2067:4
Genesis 15:6
And he believed -- The word signifies more than "belief";

it has the thought of a rest of faith. R3944:5
God must have had some dealings with Abraham before he
believed or there would have been nothing for him to believe.
R5206:6
Genesis 15:7
To inherit it -- In the future; for Stephen states, "He gave

him none inheritance in it"-yet. (Acts 7:5) R3945:4
Genesis 15:8
Whereby shall I know -- What outward signs and

evidences will help my faith to grasp these great promises.
R3945:4
Genesis 15:9
A young pigeon -- A bird is usually considered young up

to one year old. Figuring thus, the ages of these animals
represent 11 years. Eleven prophetic years of 360 literal
years each equals 3960 years, the time from the giving of the
covenant to Abraham until the year 1915. R3957:5*
Genesis 15:12
Of great darkness -- Representing the sufferings of the

Lord's people in the present time. R3946:4
Genesis 15:13
Thy seed -- If Levi could pay tithes to Melchizedek while

in the loins of Abraham (Heb. 7:9, 10), then the children of
Israel could sojourn in Abraham's loins. HG1O4:5
Afflict them -- They were not afflicted all that time, nor in
Egypt all that time. The 400 years covers the dwelling in a
land that was not theirs, and also the serving and the
affliction. HG104:5
400 years -- Beginning with Ishmael's mockery of Isaac 30
years after the covenant with Abram, when Isaac was 5 years
old, and ending with the Exodus. R2482:3*
400 prophetic years equals 144,000 days. R2482:3*
Genesis 15:14
Will I judge -- In the plagues of Egypt, illustrating the law

of retribution. R2306:1
Genesis 15:16
Of the Amorites -- Who had a prior hold on the land.

R3945:6
Is not yet full -- Each nation was permitted to go only so
far in sin and there was stopped. R1270:5, R1779:2
The Lord would not bring Israel into their land because the
iniquity of the Canaanites was not yet come to the full.
R1270:5
"When the transgressors are come to the full." (Dan. 8:23)
C97
Genesis 15:17
That, when the sun -- Symbolically the Gospel light, the

truth. D590
A burning lamp -- Symbolizing the divine presence.
R3945:5
Passed between those -- Representing the Lord's swearing
by a covenant or sacrifice of life-blood to the promise he had
given. R3945:5
Genesis 15:18
Covenant with Abram -- The Sarah covenant is the

Abrahamic covenant in its highest and special sense. Q170:4
The Abrahamic covenant included particularly the spiritual
seed, but shadowed forth an earthly seed also. Q170:6
Unto thy seed -- As their possession in the Millennial age.
R3944:3, R3945:2,3
This land -- Equal to half of Europe. Q792:2
Solomon extended the boundaries of his kingdom to the full
limits set by the Lord prophetically long before. R5722:2
River of Egypt -- The Nile. Q792:2
Genesis 16
Genesis 16:1
Now Sarai -- Type of the Abrahamic covenant. F170;

Q170:4
The Sarah covenant is the Abrahamic covenant in its highest
and special sense. Q170:4
Bare him no children -- Corresponding to the barrenness
of the Abrahamic covenant for 2000 years. F361
Name was Hagar -- Hagar means flight, or cast out.
R4371:6
Type of the Law covenant. F170
Genesis 16:2
Said unto Abram -- Type of Jehovah. F170
Genesis 16:4
Was despised -- Hagar thus manifested her unworthy,

sneering disposition. R3952:6
Genesis 16:11
Ishmael -- Type of natural Israel. F170; R3952:6
Genesis 16:15
Hagar bare -- The house of servants was developed before

spiritual Israel. R4319:2
Genesis 17
Genesis 17:1
And when -- About the year 1900 BC. R5178:3

The LORD appeared -- Jehovah appeared. E67
The Almighty God -- "He is to be feared above all gods."
(1 Chron. 16:25) E68
And be thou perfect -- Do your best to be perfect.
R5244:1
God could not set an imperfect standard, although he clearly
states in his Word that none can attain perfection in the flesh
under present conditions. R3939:1
Genesis 17:5
Be called Abram -- High Father. R3935:3

Abraham -- Father of a multitude. R3935:3, R5169:3
Representing God in a figure. R5909:5
Of many nations -- Represented in the many tribes of
Israel. R4389:6
All who love righteousness and truth. OV154:2
All the nations of the earth. F119; R4454:3, R3945:2;
CR59:6; Q171:T, Q622:T
"In becoming thy seed shall all the nations of the earth bless
themselves." R5909:5
Genesis 17:8
Give unto thee -- Stephen implied that Abraham will yet

receive that land. R5182:5
Thy seed after thee -- An implication that the Ancient
Worthies will pass to the spirit nature. R5182:5
The land of Canaan -- Not a heavenly Canaan, but an
earthly one. C244
Genesis 17:10
Be circumcised -- It was obligatory upon every Jew, and

still is. R2158:1
Symbolizing a cutting off, a separation, from the flesh--its
aims, hopes and desires. R3022:3, R5170:1, R2032:3
Genesis 17:14
Cut off - An argument against Anglo-Israel concepts.

R2086:1
Genesis 17:15
Said unto Abraham -- Type of Jehovah. F170

But Sarah -- Type of the Abrahamic covenant. F170
The name signifies Princess. R5169:6, R4371:6
Genesis 17:17
And laughed -- The name Isaac means "Laughter,"

symbolizing the glad tidings of great joy yet to come through
the anti-typical Isaac. R3952:3
The name also symbolizes our joys in the Lord in the present
time. "We brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of
promise." (Gal. 4:28) R2861:5
Genesis 17:18
O that Ishmael -- Type of natural Israel. F170; R5178:2
Genesis 17:21
With Isaac -- Type of Christ. F170
Genesis 18
Genesis 18:1
And the LORD -- Not Jehovah personally, but the

messenger of Jehovah, Christ Jesus, in human form. E43,
E94; R5179:1
Appeared unto him -- Temporarily assumed human form,
a matter entirely different from his advent as a man when he
was "made flesh." (John 1:14) R3946:3
Genesis 18:2
And, lo, three men -- Jesus and two other spirit beings, in
the form of men. A183; B127; E94; R5416:3
Angels possess a God-given power of materialization.
PD15/24
And bowed himself -- Shaw-kaw, worshipped. It is proper
to reverence those in harmony with Jehovah. E73
Genesis 18:8
And they did eat -- Showing complete materialization.

Q744:3
"Be not forgetful to entertain strangers, for some thereby have
entertained angels unawares." (Heb. 13:2) R3946:2
Genesis 18:12
Sarah laughed -- With incredulity when informed of the

subject. R2860:2
In joy and appreciation at the time of Isaac's birth. R2860:2
Genesis 18:17
Hide from Abraham -- My friend. "I have called you

friends, because whatsoever I have heard of the Father I have
made known unto you." (John 15:15) R2208:4,5
"The Lord will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his
servants." (Amos 3:7) B22
Genesis 18:18
And all the nations -- Not merely the Jews. A58

Shall be blessed -- In due time. E22
With an opportunity of returning to harmony with God, and
with everlasting life. R4557:3, R4537:6, R5768:3,5
Genesis 18:19
For I know him -- I have become intimate with him, made

a covenant with him, revealed myself to him. R3946:6
That he will -- To the end that he may. R3946:6
Genesis 18:20
The LORD said -- Jesus, as a spirit being who merely

assumed a fleshly body as a convenience in communicating
with men. R5622:5
Genesis 18:21
If not, I will know -- This is stated in simple language so

that all may understand that the Lord takes full cognizance of
earth's affairs. R3947:2
Genesis 18:23
And Abraham -- Not rejoicing in the calamity about to

come upon his neighbors, but manifesting benevolence and
the spirit of a mediator. R3947:3
The righteous - Abraham's solicitude was for the righteous,

not the wicked. R3948:1
Genesis 18:25
Be far from thee -- Abraham petitioned God's mercy on

the Sodomites to spare them, if even ten among them were
righteous. R5179:1
Do right -- As if to say, "Lord, harmonize this matter for
me. Show me how this would be just." R3947:4
Genesis 18:32
For ten's sake -- Abraham found that in every case the

Lord was no less just and generous than himself. "Blessed
are the merciful." In the end he found that God had saved the
only righteous one and on his account some that were not
righteous; and we shall see in due time that God will save all
who were destroyed. "As the heavens are higher than the
earth, so are my ways higher than your ways." (Isa. 55:9)
R3948:2
Genesis 19
Genesis 19:1
Came two angels -- In human form. E94

He bowed himself -- Shaw-ka, worshipped. It is proper to
reverence those in harmony with Jehovah. E73
Genesis 19:11
With blindness -- Angels have powers above the human.

R265:2
Genesis 19:15
Lot -- Representing the Great Company. R2857:6
Genesis 19:17
Brought them forth -- Out of Sodom, type of Babylon,

that great city which spiritually is called Sodom. D608
To the mountain -- Symbol of Christ's kingdom. D573
Genesis 19:24
Rained upon Sodom -- "If the mighty works which have

been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have
remained until this day." (Matt. 11:23) A110
Our Lord teaches that the Sodomites did not have a full
opportunity, and he guarantees them such. (Luke 17:24)
HG345:4
Brimstone -- Probably bitumen, which abounds in the
region around Sodom. R1618:6
And fire -- Probably lightning. R1618:6
Symbols of utter destruction. A318
Genesis 19:25
He overthrew -- No injustice as they were convicts

anyway, convicted of sin and sentenced to death. (Rom.
5:12) F174
Genesis 19:26
But his wife -- For the foolish virgins, inclined to look

back, the Lord left the injunction, "Remember Lot's wife."
(Luke 17:32) C194; D608
Looked back -- Being more in sympathy with the things
behind than the things before. D608
If they love the things behind more than they appreciate
deliverance, they will have no part in deliverance. R2858:1
A pillar of salt -- Possibly stumbled in her flight, became
covered with the half liquid, slimy mud, suffocated with the
sulphur and bitumen, and then became encrusted with the salt
crystals which are even now continually exhaled from the
Dead Sea. R2858:2
An atmosphere heavily charged with sulphur and bitumen
might easily produce suffocation. R2858:4
Genesis 19:29
Sent Lot out -- God's mercy towards Lot was because of

his relationship to Abraham. R5179:3
Genesis 19:37
Of the Moabites -- Whose relationship to Abraham and

the Israelites is thus shown. A42
Genesis 20
Genesis 20:2
She is my sister -- An imperfection demonstrated by

Abraham in his endeavor to hold on to the divine promises.
R4387:3
Genesis 20:9
What hast thou done -- The King was governed by high

principles. SM379:T
Genesis 20:12
My sister -- My niece. R2934:1

Is the daughter -- The grand-daughter; in olden times it
was customary to speak of a grandchild as the son or the
daughter of the grandparent. R2934:1
Genesis 21
Genesis 21:3
And Abraham -- Type of Jehovah. F170

Whom Sarah -- Type of the Abrahamic covenant. F170
Isaac -- Type of Christ. F170
Genesis 21:5
Was 100 years old -- 25 years after the covenant was

made. B231
Genesis 21:9
Mocking -- This was the beginning of the 400 years of

affliction of Abraham's seed, which ended with the exodus,
Isaac at the time being 5 years old, 30 years after the
covenant. R2482:3*
Typifying the manner in which fleshly Israel mocked at
spiritual Israel. R2777:6, R3952:6
Typifying the manner in which the tare class mocks at the
wheat class. R2778:5
Genesis 21:10
Wherefore -- In order to show that the Law covenant was

not to have any rule over the spiritual sons of God. R1728:5
Cast out -- The Law covenant was cast aside when Jesus
became heir of the original promise. R4319:3
And her son -- Ishmael, type of the nation of Israel.
R4319:2
Tyrannical, domineering, incorrigible; at this time 13 years of
age. R3952:6
Shall not be heir -- The mother's nature, rights, privileges
and liberties attach to the child. E105
The nation of Israel could not inherit the promised blessings
because the Law brought nothing to perfection. R4319:2
With my son -- Isaac, who represented The Christ, Head
and Body. R4319:2, R4320:1
Genesis 21:12
In Isaac -- Illustrating the principle of election during the

Patriarchal age. F170
Divine wisdom indicated beforehand that the blessing would
go through Isaac. PD28/41
Genesis 21:14
Gave it unto Hagar -- Type of the Law covenant. F170

And the child -- Ishmael, type of natural Israel. F170
Sent her away -- Typifying the divine disfavor upon the
Jews. SM202:3
Genesis 21:19
Gave the lad drink -- As Ishmael was rescued from death

by the water, so the nation of Israel is about to be refreshed.
SM203:2; R5503:3; PD23/34
Genesis 22
Genesis 22:1
Did tempt Abraham -- Tried or proved his character.

R1623:3
For his good. R5702:1
Genesis 22:2
Take now thy son -- God's final test upon Abraham's faith.
R4574:1
Abraham was 125 years old, and Isaac was the son who
would be the channel for all the blessings promised. R5180:1
Offer him -- Only a person very intimately acquainted
with the Almighty, very sympathetic and trustful, could
possibly have endured such a test. R5180:1
By prompt obedience Abraham gave proof of his loyalty,
"accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the
dead." (Heb. 11:19) R5702:1
Thus he was counted worthy of a better resurrection.
R4574:2
Genesis 22:3
Abraham -- Type of the Almighty. F170; R5180:3

Isaac - Type of The Christ, Head and Body. F170;
R5180:3
Genesis 22:5
And worship -- Abraham's frequent drawing near to God

in private prayer and communion was the secret of his
unwavering faith and obedience. R1624:1
Genesis 22:9
And bound Isaac -- Isaac was a man at the time, full of

health and vigor, and evidently offered no resistance;
typifying Christ Jesus' submission to the Father's will.
R2861:1
On the altar -- Typifying Christ's death as the blood of the
original covenant. R4320:1
Supposedly the very rock upon which Isaac was bound
became the location for the Brazen altar. (2 Chron. 3:1)
R5180:2, R2510:6
Genesis 22:10
Took the knife -- The offering was complete in the sight of

heaven. R5180:2
Genesis 22:12
Thou fearest God -- Abraham's entire life was a life of

faith, of trust in God, and of reliance upon the divine
promises. R5180:1
Genesis 22:13
A ram -- Type of Christ. Q557:3; R5180:5
Genesis 22:14
Jehovah-jireh -- Jehovah's providence. E43

Genesis 22:17
In blessing -- A spiritual promise which the Jews at that

time could not appreciate. R5295:5
Seed as the stars -- The heavenly seed, Christ and the
Church. A292; F355; T34; R4682:3, R4931:1, R5178:5,
R5273:4, R5809:5; OV156:3, OV428:3; SM368:1
The Little Flock and Great Company. R2067:4
The favor of the Lord now comes to us as the spiritual seed,
to the extent of our faithfulness to the Lord. R4606:4
The spiritual portion was hidden until God's due time-at the
first advent. R5285:3
These are the heirs of Gal. 3:29 and 1 Cor. 15:41, 42,
R5178:5
Jesus was the first, the Captain, the forerunner. R4646:2
And as the sand -- The earthly seed. A292; F355; T34;
R4606:4, R4682:3, R5809:5; CR157:5
All who during the Millennial age attain to human perfection.
R2854:1, R4646:1, R5273:4, R5836:5
Necessitating the awakening of the entire race from the tomb.
R5533:4
In resemblance, not necessarily in numbers. R2067:4
Possess the gate -- Place of power and control. R4370:4
Genesis 22:18
And in thy seed -- The glorified Christ. F72; R5301:4,

R5818:1; CR269:6
God's agency in blessing the world. CR460:5; R4442:4,
R5181:3, R5761:4; OV201:1
All of God's blessings come under the Abrahamic covenant,
either directly or indirectly. Q165:4; OV9:1; PD35/46
Isaac did not fulfill the promise, he was merely a type.
SM530:T
Referred to by Paul as the oath-bound covenant. (Heb. 6:10-14). OV9:3

Every mother amongst the Israelites hoped she could be the
mother of the promised child. R4963:2
At first the Jews thought of this promise as being fulfilled in
them as a nation. R4714:3
The Jews will be first in prominence in the time of blessing.
OV118:1
The earthly seed cannot have its share in the work of blessing
others until first the heavenly seed shall have been perfected
in the first resurrection. HG667:6
The Jews were in darkness in respect to God's plan. R5769:5
All of God's dealings with Israel were in accord with his
covenant with Abraham. R5285:3
All the nations -- Not only Israel but, through Israel, all
families of the earth. A58; R4442:4, R5818:1; OV118:2,5,
OV143:T, SM368:1
Implies a resurrection from the dead. R5608:2
Be blessed -- With an opportunity both of returning to
harmony with God, and for everlasting life. R4557:3,
R4537:6, R4806:1; SM530:T
"In becoming thy seed shall all the families of the earth bless
themselves." R5836:5; SM590:T
God's promise was that the seed of Abraham would be the
great king who would bless Israel and, through Israel, bless
the world. HG273:5
Genesis 23
Genesis 23:2
Sarah died -- Prior to the time when Isaac married,

signifying that the primary covenant is fulfilled in the
bringing forth of the completed Messiah. R5178:2; SM207:1
Genesis 23:6
Thou art a mighty -- Elohim, god, a name applied to

Jehovah. E68
Genesis 23:7
And bowed himself -- Shaw-kaw, worshipped. It is

proper to reverence those in harmony with Jehovah. E73
Genesis 23:12
Bowed down himself -- Shaw-kaw, worshipped. E73

Genesis 24
Genesis 24:2
And Abraham -- Type of Jehovah. F170; R4476:2,

R4516:2, R5187:3, R5533:5
His eldest servant -- Eliezer, type of the holy Spirit.
F171; R4476:2, R4516:2, R5187:3
Genesis 24:3
A wife -- Type of the Church. F170; R4476:2

My son -- Type of Jesus. F170; R4476:2
Genesis 24:4
Go unto my country -- Representing the household of

faith. R3953:2, R5187:3
To my kindred -- Those already in relationship to God
through faith. SM204:2
Unto my son Isaac -- Type of Christ. F170 Who was at
this time 40 years old. Isaac's submission typified Christ's
submission to Jehovah. R2861:2, R5178:3
Genesis 24:10
The servant -- Represented the work of the holy Spirit in

calling the Church. PD23/34
Took ten camels -- Representing the Word of God. The
camels bore the servant and the presents to Rebekah. R161:2
Genesis 24:15
Behold, Rebekah -- Type of the Church, the Bride of

Christ. F170; R5533:5
Milcah -- One of Haran's daughters whom Nahor married;
grandmother of Rebekah. R5177:6
Genesis 24:19
I will draw -- The spirit of generosity, of service.

R5187:6
For thy camels also -- The spirit does not communicate to
us the things of our high calling in Christ until we entertain
the Word as well as the spirit. R161:3
Genesis 24:20
For all his camels -- Illustrating her hospitable, kindly

disposition. Only those who have something of generosity
and amiability in their characters are invited to be of the Bride
class. R3953:1
Genesis 24:22
A golden earring -- Representing the blessed effect of

hearing the call to be of the Bride of Christ. R1386:5;
SM206:2
And two bracelets -- Representing the blessed effect of
the divine call upon our doings after we hear the call.
R1386:5
Genesis 24:30
Earring and bracelets -- Symbolic of spiritual blessings.

R5187:6
Genesis 24:35
Blessed my master -- The great riches of God are

illustrated in Abraham. SM204:3
Genesis 24:47
Milcah bare unto him -- Children are of the father, by the

mother, as illustrated in the human birth of Christ. E99
Genesis 24:51
Take her, and go -- The acceptance of the call to be of the

Bride of Christ could not be possible if it were with
hesitancy: it must be prompt and hearty. R3953:3
Genesis 24:53
Jewels of sliver -- Symbolizing truths. R1386:5

Jewels of gold -- Symbolizing additional treasures of the
holy Spirit which we receive after our betrothal to Christ.
R3953:3, R4516:3, R5188:2; SM206:2
And raiment -- Symbolizing the Church's newness of life
and relationship to the Father and the Son whose call she has
accepted. R1386:5
Gave also -- Showing that others of the household of faith
receive spiritual blessings through the betrothed class.
R1386:5
Brother and to her mother -- Typifying the sympathizing
ones of the household of faith, justified but not fully
sanctified. R1386:5
Genesis 24:54
In the morning -- This day and the day previous represent

the two thousand-year days in which the Bride of Christ
receives the call. R2310:4
Genesis 24:58
Rebekah -- Type of those who become members of the

Bride, the Lamb's wife. R5188:2
Genesis 24:60
Be thou the mother -- The Bride will become the mother

of thousands of millions of humanity. R5188:5; SM207:1;
PD27/38
Genesis 24:61
Rebekah arose -- Typifying the personal consecration of

each one who, led of the spirit, accepts the invitation to
joint-heirship with Christ. SM206:2
And her damsels -- Maids, representing the Great
Company. Q584:6; SM205:1,3; F171
Upon the camels -- Representing the Scriptures, by which
the faithful are borne along. R5188:4
Followed the man -- Representing our individual
experiences as we follow the guidance of the holy Spirit; and
also the experiences of the Church as a whole, covering the
past 18 centuries. R3953:3; PD23/34
Genesis 24:62
And Isaac came -- Typifying the second advent of Christ.

R3953:3
Lahai-roi -- The place where Hagar talked with the Lord
without seeing him; thus teaching that at the second advent
Christ will be invisible to the natural eye. R161:6
Genesis 24:63
In the field -- "The field is the world." (Matt.13:38)

R1387:6
Genesis 24:65
Unto the servant -- Typifying the spirit of the truth.

R1387:6
She took a vail -- Representing the passing of the Church
beyond the vail. R3953:3
In the resurrection the Church will no longer need the
guidance of the holy Spirit through the Scriptures. SM206:3
Genesis 24:67
Isaac brought her -- Typifies Christ receiving the Church

at the end of her journey. R4371:6; Q169:5
His mother Sarah -- Type of the Abrahamic covenant.
F170
Rebekah -- Type of the Bride of Christ. OV320:5;
R4387:1
Grand-daughter of Milcah. and great grand-daughter of
Haran, Abraham's brother. R5177:6
Became his wife -- Sarah had died; Rebekah became her
successor. So, the glorified Church will replace the Sarah
covenant as a channel of blessing. SM207:1
Isaac had but one wife; Christ has but one Bride. R3953:3
The figure of Isaac and Rebekah as types of Christ and the
Church ends here where the twain are made one. R1388:3
Genesis 25
Genesis 25:1
Took a wife -- Not, however, as taking the full place of

Sarah as his joint-heir. R4440:2
Keturah did not become a wife, or covenant, until after Isaac's
marriage, which typified the marriage between Christ and the
Church. R4309:5
After Isaac's marriage Abraham took Keturah to wife, thus
illustrating the New covenant. R283:5
Name was Keturah -- Means increase, or sweet. R4371:6
Type of the New covenant of restitution. E106; R5178:3;
Q196:5
Genesis 25:4
Children of Keturah -- Type of the restitution class of the

Millennium. R4309:5
Genesis 25:5
And Abraham -- Type of Jehovah. F170; OV320:5

At his death, at age 175, one hundred years after the covenant
was made, hence 1945 BC, hence 3826 years back from AD
1881, corresponding to the 3826 pyramid inches back from
the lower terminus of the "well" to the entrance of the
pyramid. C367
Gave all that he had unto Isaac -- Type of The Christ,
who was thus in position to bless Ishmael, type of natural
Israel, and the many sons of Keturah, typical of the world in
general. C367; R5300:1, R5178:3
Genesis 25:8
Gathered to his people -- He went to the same place they

were, sheol, the tomb, the death state. R5611:5
Genesis 25:23
Serve the younger -- This promise was treasured up by

Rebekah and doubtless communicated to Jacob. R1624:3
Genesis 25:24
There were twins -- Representing that the Jewish and

Gospel dispensations should be of equal length. R1624:6
Genesis 25:26
Threescore years -- 85 years after the Abrahamic

covenant. B231
Genesis 25:27
A man of the field -- Esau was full of vigor, athletic, a

hunter. R5198:2
Dwelling In tents -- Jacob was a home keeper. R5198:2
Genesis 25:30
And Esau -- Type of natural Israel and Christendom. D14;

F172
Said to Jacob -- Type of the New Creation. F172
Same red pottage -- Type of earthly good things. F172;
R5198:5
Presumably the occasion was a celebration of the birthday of
their grandfather Abraham. R4722:1
It is the custom amongst the Arabs that the elder son shall
recognize by fast the birth date of a celebrated ancestor. For
him to partake of the feast on such an occasion would mean
the renouncement of his birthright to the next one in
succession. R4722:1
Genesis 25:32
And what profit -- He only regarded so much of it as

pertained to this present life. R1624:3; PD28/41
This birthright -- Type of the heavenly blessings
promised the Church. F172
Genesis 25:33
Sold his birthright -- Showing that he placed very small

valuation upon it. R1624 R5198:3
Unto Jacob -- Who thus came lawfully into possession of
it. R1624:3, R4722:4
Genesis 25:34
Pottage -- The enjoyment of the fleeting pleasures of the

present life, for which some Christians barter their glorious
inheritance and lose the great prize. R5452:1, R4871:4
Genesis 26
Genesis 26:1
And Isaac -- A man of commonplace experiences; as are

most of the Lord's people. R3952:3
Genesis 26:2
And said -- Confirming the original covenant with

Abraham. B45
Genesis 26:3
Will perform the oath -- The making of this covenant

implied a fellowship between God and Abraham on the basis
of his faith-justification. R4574:1
Genesis 26:4
Stars of heaven -- The heavenly seed, mentioned

exclusively to Isaac, because he himself typified that seed.
R3965:2
All the nations -- Not only Israel, but, through Israel "all
the families of the earth." A58
Some of these nations have perished from the earth but the
Scriptures assure us of an awakening of all the sleeping
millions of earth's population. Be blessed -- See comments
on Gen. 12:3.
Genesis 26:16
Go from us -- The Russians are using the very words of

this verse to the Jews in their midst today (1907). R3953:5
Genesis 26:22
Removed from thence -- Rather than have strife. "Blessed

are the peacemakers." (Matt. 5:9) R3953:5
For now the LORD -- Isaac did not forget the source of
his blessings. R3954:1
Genesis 26:24
Abraham thy father -- I still recognize him. He still has a

place in my arrangements and purposes. R2860:6
Fear not -- Do not be afraid that your course of peace will
lead to further injuries at the hands of the Philistines.
R3954:1
I am with thee -- I approve your faith and submission.
R2860:6
Abraham's sake -- In harmony with the covenant made
with him. R2860:6
Genesis 26:35
A grief of mind -- Ruach, spirit. E174
Genesis 27
Genesis 27:4
May bless thee -- The line of descent of the covenant

favor was hinted to Rebekah in the promise that the elder
should serve the younger. (Gen. 25:23) R1624:3
Jacob had a perfect right to appear as Esau, name and all.
R1624:5
Esau was dishonest in attempting to take the blessing which
he had forfeited, and that with an oath. R4722:4
Esau should have explained to Isaac that he had sold the
blessing to Jacob. R1624:3
Genesis 27:8
Obey my voice -- Jacob's mother concluded that Jacob,

having purchased the birthright, might properly impersonate
Esau. PD28/41
Genesis 27:19
I am Esau -- Esau, in selling his birthright actually made

Jacob his attorney to hold and exercise Esau's rights.
R1624:5
Genesis 27:23
He blessed him -- To the saintly few, represented by

Jacob, the obtaining of this life-right means self sacrifice, the
loss of earthly favors. R5198:6
Genesis 27:29
Nations bow down -- Shaw-kaw, worship. It is proper

to reverence those in harmony with Jehovah. E73
Genesis 27:36
Birthright -- Much more than earthly possessions, it

included the inheritance of certain great divine promises.
R5198:1
No one can sell a birthright until he has a birthright, been
spirit-begotten. R5198:6
Blessing -- Instead of a written will. R5198:1
Genesis 27:41
And Esau -- Type of natural Israel and Christendom. D14;

F172
Hated Jacob -- Type of the New Creation. F172
Genesis 28
Genesis 28:10
Jacob -- A Patriarch, neither Jew nor Christian. R5199:3

Practically a fugitive on account of his faith in the Abrahamic
covenant. R3964:6
Genesis 28:11
Took of the stones -- Following the custom of many in

Palestine today. R5199:1
Genesis 28:12
Behold a ladder -- The Lord Jesus, the connecting link

between heaven and earth. R3483:6, R3965:1
"Hereafter ye shall see heaven opened, and the angels of God
ascending and descending upon the Son of man." (John
1:51). D629
The re-establishment of peace and fellowship between heaven
and earth. PD28/41; R5199:6
Communication between heaven and earth- the Messianic
Kingdom. R5200:4
Behold the angels -- Messengers of God, the "princes" of
the new dispensation, including Jacob himself. D629
Genesis 28:13
LORD stood above it -- "All things are of the Father and

by the Son." (1 Cor. 8:6). F3965:1
To thee -- God recognized Jacob as the legal heir of the
Abrahamic promise. R5199:2
Genesis 28:14
Dust of the earth -- The earthly seed, mentioned

exclusively to Jacob, to whom Paul refers as a representative
of natural Israel. R3965:3
One who receives such unqualified divine approval as did
Jacob, ought never to be spoken of lightly. R2863:6
In thy seed shall -- First through the "Isaac" seed, the New
Creation; and secondly through the Ancient Worthies,
developed in the ages preceding this age. Q196:2
All the families -- Including the ante-diluvians. HG727:5
Be blessed -- See comments on Gen. 12:3.
Genesis 28:15
Into this land -- A prophecy of the regathering of fleshly

Israel to Palestine. R1630:2
Not leave thee -- God has not let go of fleshly Israel from
that time to this. R3965:4
Genesis 28:16
And he said -- Being content with the loss of all things

since he was acknowledged of God as heir of the promise.
R3965:2
Genesis 28:17
The gate of heaven -- "Wherever two or three are met"

(Matt. 18:20) in the Lord's name, there the "ladder" still
touches the earth. R3965:5
The great Temple of God, composed of living stones, will be
the gate of heaven, through which will come to mankind all of
the things promised. R5200:1
Genesis 28:18
And set it up -- It is now our privilege to set up the

memorials of baptism and commemoration of the Passover.
R3966:4
A pillar -- A monument. R5200:4
Poured oil -- Signifying its sacredness to God. R5200:4
Genesis 28:19
Beth-el -- The house of God. R3966:4, R5200:1
Genesis 28:20
If God -- Since God, or, inasmuch as God. R1630:4

Bread to eat -- Jacob did not wish for more than mere
necessities and we should have the same disposition.
R1630:4
Genesis 28:22
The tenth unto thee -- The consecration on Jacob's part

was voluntary; not of constraint, but of love and gratitude.
R1630:4
We, of the New Creation, gladly covenant to give all that we
have, but we are fortunate if we are able to give directly to the
Lord one-tenth of our time and means and other talents.
R3966:4
Genesis 29
Genesis 29:20
For the love he had -- Our love to God and his people
should be such as to cause our life's service to him and this to
seem but a moment. R31:2
Genesis 29:30
Loved also Rachel -- Type of Gospel Church. R184:3

More than Leah -- Type of fleshly Israel. R184:3
Seven other years -- Typifying that the Gospel age would
be equal in length to the Jewish age. R184:3
Genesis 30
Genesis 30:8
Great wrestlings -- Elohim, god, mighty, a name

applied to Jehovah. E69
Genesis 31
Genesis 31:24
Either good or bad -- From good to bad. R2865:1
Genesis 31:29
It is in the power -- El, might, a name applied to Jehovah.

E69
Genesis 32
Genesis 32:1
And Jacob -- Being at this time 97 years old and having

been absent 40 years. R1634:3
Genesis 32:7
Afraid and distressed -- Representing the present fears of

the Jewish people as they near the time of their restoration.
R3970:3
Genesis 32:9
And Jacob said -- The first recorded prayer in the Bible; a

perfect prayer as measured by the standard of the Lord's
prayer, and following the same general lines of adoration to
the Almighty, humiliation in his presence, petition for divine
care and protection, and repetition of the divine promises as
the ground for faith and hope. R3969:2
Genesis 32:10
I am not worthy -- An excellent example of earnest,

persevering prayer. R5481:1
With my staff -- Without other possessions. R3969:3,
R5481:1
Over this Jordan -- When fleeing from home. R2864:3,
R5481:1
Became two bands -- Referring to his large possessions of
herds, etc., which he had divided into two bands. R3969:3,
R5481:1
Genesis 32:11
The hand of Esau -- Type of natural Israel and

Christendom. D15; F172
Genesis 32:13
And took of that -- Jacob was not content merely to pray,

but labored also to set his affairs in the best possible order for
the difficulties ahead. R3969:6
A present for Esau -- Despite the fact that he had
previously abandoned to him all the immense wealth of Isaac,
which was his by birthright. We should not be sticklers for
full justice and the last penny in earthly matters. R2865:4
Genesis 32:24
And Jacob -- Type of his faithful ones, the New Creation.

F172
Was left alone -- To continue his prayer. The account
which follows fitly represents our Lord's experiences in the
garden of Gethsemane. Our Lord agonized for long hours and
finally got the blessing. R3970:1
Wrestled -- Permitting Jacob to get into an earnest
attitude. We need not wrestle with God, we already have his
special blessing. R5835:6
A man with him -- An angel in human form. R3969:6
Genesis 32:25
Of his thigh -- Probably the sciatic nerve. R2866:5

Was out of joint -- Probably remained so the balance of
his life as a reminder that he owed everything he possessed to
the Lord's blessing. R2866:5
Wrestled with him -- The blessing being withheld until he
should more and more feel the need of it and struggle to
obtain it. R3970:1
God would have us thus "strive to enter in." (Luke 13:24)
R1634:5
Genesis 32:26
Will not let thee go -- Representing the Jewish people

when the Lord shall shortly "pour out upon them the spirit of
prayer and supplication." (Zech. 12:10) R3970:3
"Men ought always to pray and not to faint." (Luke 18:1)
R2865:6
Thou bless me -- Similarly our prayers should be for the
Lord's blessing, not for temporal prosperity. R2865:6
Jacob was full of faith in the power of God and in his promise
to protect him and make of him a great nation. R5481:2
Genesis 32:28
But Israel -- Meaning "Mighty with God," or "A prince

with God." R5481:4, R5832:3, R2866:2; OV66:1
Genesis 32:29
After my name -- The angel seemingly had no desire to

flaunt his own name and have it handed down to posterity.
He desired the praise to be given to God. R3970:6
Blessed him there -- The darkest seasons of Jacob's life
were the special occasions for the manifestations of divine
favor. R1635:1
Genesis 32:30
Peniel -- Meaning "The face of God." R5481:5
Genesis 33
Genesis 33:8
To find grace -- So we should be willing to give to others

a larger share of earth's good things to forward the Lord's
cause. R5206:3
Genesis 33:10
My present -- A pledge of good faith between Jacob and

Esau. R5205:6
Genesis 34
Genesis 34:31
And they said -- These same men shortly afterward,

conspired to murder their own brother, showing that pride,
not righteousness, was at the bottom of their slaughter of the
Shechemites. R3972:2
Genesis 35
Genesis 35:1
Said unto Jacob -- Type of the New Creation. F172

The face of Esau -- Type of natural Israel and
Christendom. D15; F172
Genesis 35:9
And blessed him -- Confirming the covenant originally

made with Abraham. B45.
Genesis 35:16
Rachel -- Typifying covenant of sacrifice; bringing forth

two separate classes of saints typified by Joseph and
Benjamin. R5231:3
See comments on Gen. 29:30.
Genesis 35:18
Her soul was in departing -- It is the soul life or being

that went out. HG205:1
For she died -- Benjamin's mother died in giving him
birth; so we expect the spiritual feature of the Abrahamic
covenant to pass away entirely with the change of those who
will constitute the "Great Company." R4437:1, R5231:5
Benjamin -- Means "Son of my right hand" or "Son of my
pain. " He was born in sorrow and travail, even as the Great
Company will come up out of the great tribulation. R4437:1,
R5231:5
Genesis 35:20
Rachel's grave -- Qeburah, place of interment. E356
Genesis 35:22
Were twelve -- Type of the twelve apostles. B246
Genesis 35:24
Rachel -- Type of the Gospel Church, Zion. R184:3,

R4454:1
Joseph -- Type of The Christ. R184:5, R4436:6,
R4454:1
Benjamin -- Type of the Great Company, born after
Zion's travail. (Isa. 66) R184:6 , R4436:6, R4454:1
Genesis 36
Genesis 36:1
Esau, who Is Edom -- Type of Christendom. D15
Genesis 36:6
And all the persons -- Nephesh, souls, beings. E334
Genesis 37
Genesis 37:2
Their evil report -- It was proper that Joseph should thus

inform his father of the misconduct of those in charge of his
business. R3971:5
Genesis 37:3
Israel loved Joseph - Type of Jesus, the Heavenly Father's

beloved Son. R3971:3
Of many colors -- Perhaps of greater length than usually
worn. R3971:3
Jacob probably considered that the fulfillment of the divine
covenant would come in Joseph's line, as the eldest son of his
beloved Rachel. R1639:3
Genesis 37:5
Dreamed a dream -- There was a necessity for dreams

then which does not exist now. R3971:6
Genesis 37:10
And he told it -- His later experiences doubtless taught

him to be more secretive--a lesson for us. (Matt. 7:6)
R3971:5
Bow down ourselves -- This was fulfilled later when Jacob
and his family were presented to Joseph as ruler of Egypt.
R2880:3
Genesis 37:11
Envied him -- Typifying that Jesus was sold for silver and
delivered for envy. R3971:4
Genesis 37:18
To slay him -- Typifying that "He came to his own and his
own received him not." (John 1:11) R2880:6
Genesis 37:21
Reuben heard it -- As the instrument of Divine providence

in Joseph's affairs. R2880:3,4
Genesis 37:22
And Reuben -- Who really had more reason to be jealous

of Joseph than any of the others, because he was the eldest
son of Leah. R1639:3
Genesis 37:24
Into a pit -- "We saw the anguish of his soul and we would
not hear." (Gen. 42:21). R3972:5
Genesis 37:28
20 pieces of silver -- Prefiguring the hatred and sale of

Christ by his enemies--his brethren of the Jewish nation.
R1645:5
Typifying the 30 pieces of silver for which Christ was sold;
30 pieces being the price of a slave, or 20 pieces if the slave
was under 20 years of age, as in Joseph's case. R1645:5
Genesis 37:35
I will go -- We may all know that bad men go to hell but

how many of us know that the Ancient Worthies, Jacob and
Hezekiah, fully expected to go there, and that faithful Job
prayed to go there? HG556:3, HG734:5
Down into the grave -- Sheol, state of death, oblivion, not
torment. E355; PD29/41; SM521:1
Genesis 38
Genesis 38:1
And It came to pass -- The details of this chapter are

given because the Messiah was to come of Judah's line. A43
Genesis 39
Genesis 39:1
Joseph -- Then 17 years of age. R2886:1
Genesis 39:22
Joseph -- Then 27 years of age. R2886:4
Genesis 40
Genesis 40:1
Butler -- King's secretary or cup-bearer. R5216:3
Genesis 40:8
Belong to God -- The secret of Joseph's greatness was that

he trusted in God. R3974:1
Genesis 40:13
Lift up thine head -- "He shall drink of the brook in the

way; therefore shall he lift up the head." (Psa. 110:7)
R2935:1
Genesis 40:15
Have I done nothing -- Joseph did not ruin the happiness

of Potiphar and his wife by telling the circumstances under
which he was imprisoned. R3974:1
Into the dungeon -- Hebrew, "Hole." "His feet they hurt
with fetters; he was laid in irons." (Psa. 105:18) R3973:3
Genesis 41
Genesis 41:1
Two full years -- Representing the latter part of the fifth,

all of the sixth, and the beginning of the seventh thousand--year
day in which The Christ was in the prison--house of
death. R2888:3
Genesis 41:16
It is not in me -- "He that humbleth himself shall be

exalted." (Luke 14:11) R3978:6
God shall give -- "In all thy ways acknowledge him."
(Prov. 3:6) R3978:6, R5216:6
Genesis 41:29
Of great plenty -- Representing the grace and bounty of

God in Christ laid up in the present time. R2075:2
Genesis 41:30
Years of famine -- Representing the Millennial age, in

which the world will come to hunger after righteousness and
find none except that which The Christ, the antitype of
Joseph, possesses and controls in the name of the great king.
R2075:2
Genesis 41:39
Said unto Joseph -- Joseph, the life-giver of Egypt, was

unquestionably a type of the greater life-giver, The Christ,
Head and Body. R4437:1
Genesis 41:40
Over my house -- Over my kingdom. R3979:2

Only In the throne -- Supreme authority and rulership.
A92
Genesis 41:41
And Pharaoh -- In this, a type of the Almighty Creator.

R5231:3, R3979:4
Said unto Joseph -- Type of Christ. R3979:6, R5231:3
Set thee over all -- Typifying the raising up of Jesus out of
the prisonhouse of death to be ruler of the universe, next to
the Father. R5231:3, R3979:3
Joseph was now 30 years of age. R5216:5
Genesis 41:42
Took off his ring -- Signet ring, representing Pharaoh's

authority. R2888:2
Genesis 41:43
Bow the knee -- "God hath highly exalted him, that at the
name of Jesus every knee should bow." (Phil. 2:9, 10).
R3979:4
Genesis 41:45
Zaphnath-paaneah -- "Deliverer from death by the bread

of life," typifying our Redeemer, who was the "bread that
came down from heaven." (John 6:41). R3979:5, R2888:3
To wife Asenath -- Meaning "Favored," a type of the
Bride of Christ, R2888:5
Genesis 41:49
Without number -- Typifying the abundant provision God

has made for the bread of life for all who will receive it in his
way. R3980:1
Genesis 41:55
All the Egyptians -- Typifying the world of mankind.

R2881:1
Go unto Joseph -- Type of Christ. R2880:6
Genesis 42
Genesis 42:3
Joseph's 10 brethren -- Representing the Jewish people,

who will very shortly be brought before the exalted Christ to
receive the bread of life. R4437:1, R2881:1
Genesis 42:38
Sorrow to the grave -- Sheol, state of death, oblivion, not

torment. E355; PD30/42
Genesis 43
Genesis 43:34
Benjamin -- Type of the Great Company, the foolish

virgins. R4437:1, R5232:5
Five times so much -- A mark of special favor. R5231:3,
R184:6
Genesis 44
Genesis 44:17
Get you up in peace -- This was a test on them. R5233:3
Genesis 44:29

torment. E355
Genesis 44:31

torment. E355
Genesis 45
Genesis 45:4
And Joseph -- Type of Christ. R3971:3; PD31/43

Unto his brethren -- Typifying the Jewish rulers.
R3971:3; PD31/43
Genesis 45:5
For God did send me -- "In all thy ways acknowledge

him." (Prov. 3:6) R2894:1
The way adopted was the natural course of events which God
overruled and turned; so that without interfering with the
wills of any, his will for good was carried out. R1271:2
To preserve life -- What you intended as my destruction
has been turned by the Lord into the means by which your
lives are preserved. R1779:4
Genesis 45:9
Lord of all Egypt -- Typifying that Christ is "Lord of all."

R1645:6
Genesis 45:10
Land of Goshen -- They were not invited to share his

throne, nor will any of the earthly class during the Millennial
age be invited to share the throne of Christ. R2894:5
Genesis 45:16
Joseph's brethren -- Joseph, typifying Christ, was not

ashamed to present his brethren before Pharaoh, typifying
Jehovah. R1645:6
Genesis 45:24
Fall not out -- The way planned for us by the Lord is a

narrow and difficult way, full of adversities to the flesh and
trials and tests to the spirit. R5235:5
Joseph was a keen observer of human nature: when prosperity
comes, there are opportunities to quarrel, to feel more or less
of envy and selfishness. R5235:4
Genesis 45:27
The spirit of Jacob -- Ruach, vital or life-powers.

E314
Genesis 46
Genesis 46:2
And he said -- Confirming the covenant made with

Abraham. B45
Genesis 46:3
There make of thee -- The last of the patriarchs. B213

A great nation -- The twelve tribes of Israel. B213
A divine forestatement of the purpose to make them unusually
prolific in their Egyptian home. R2900:3
Genesis 46:26
Out of his loins -- Children are of the father and by the

mother, as illustrated in Christ's human birth E100
Genesis 47
Genesis 47:7
Jacob blessed Pharaoh -- In the sense of asking the divine

blessing upon him. R5240:3
Genesis 47:23
Then Joseph -- Typifying The Christ. R3979:6

Said unto the people -- Typifying the world of mankind in
the Millennial age. R3980:1
I have bought you -- The selling of themselves by the
people typified the consecration of their all in order to gain
the bread of life. R1645:6, R3980:1
It remains to be proven that a republican form government is
in all respects best for humanity R2888:5
For Pharaoh -- Typifying Jehovah. The surrender of all
that we possess to a fellow-mortal would be very dangerous
indeed, but Jehovah is the grand exception. R3980:1
Genesis 47:28
Was 147 years -- 232 years after the Abrahamic covenant

was made, or 198 years before the Exodus. B231
Genesis 48
Genesis 48:19
Multitude of nations -- Goyim, nominal Gentiles.

C296
The birthright, with its "double portion" of the promised land,
went to Ephraim and Manasseh, the sons of Joseph. R2124:5
Genesis 49
Genesis 49:4
Thy father's bed -- Thus forfeiting the chief blessing.

R1635:5
Genesis 49:6
Their secret -- Their scheming. HG558:1
Genesis 49:10
The sceptre -- The right to rule, the title to all power.

B85, B87
The ruling power went to Judah. R2124:5; CR41:2
Shall not -- Although kingly power was taken away from
them in the days of king Zedekiah, nevertheless the scepter of
authority remained with them. HG428:3
Depart from Judah -- Thus shown to be the ancestor of
Christ. A42
Nor a lawgiver -- The great Deliverer, Christ. B86
Between his feet -- Loins. B86, HG48:3
Until Shiloh -- The great peacemaker, "The Prince of
Peace." B86
And unto him -- At the expiration of the Times of the
Gentiles. B87
God kept Israel together as a people until Christ came.
R1373:2
Genesis 49:22
Run over the wall -- The tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh,

Joseph's descendants, took up about one-half of the land of
Canaan and in addition large branches or tracts of land "over
the wall," or river of Jordan, on its east bank. R2124:6
Genesis 49:23
Sorely grieved him -- Not a prophecy, but a reference to

Joseph's past experiences. R2125:1
Genesis 49:24
From thence Is -- By the name of. R2125:1

Stone -- A supernatural power, heavenly, divine -- the
Messianic Kingdom. R3359:4
Genesis 49:28
Tribes of Israel -- First so called after Jacob's death. A78;

B213; HG54:3
Genesis 50
Genesis 50:5
In my grave -- Qeburah, place of interment. E356
Genesis 50:17
Unto Joseph -- Type of Christ. R3979:6

Of thy brethren -- Type of fleshly Israel. R3982:1
Now, we pray thee -- Typifying the "spirit of prayer and
supplication" (Zech. 12:10) to be poured out upon the Jews in
Genesis 50:19
The place of God -- Is it for me to judge you? Joseph did

not regulate the divine arrangements of justice. R5235:2,
R3981:6
Genesis 50:22
110 years -- 54 years after the death of Jacob. R2896:3
Genesis 50:24
Bring you out -- The strength of Joseph centered in his

knowledge of the divine promise made to Abraham. PD31/43
To Isaac -- Confirmed to Isaac. B45
Genesis 50:25
Children of Israel -- Typically, all who would ever

become Abraham's seed. R4389:6
Will surely visit you -- "By faith Joseph, when he died,
made mention of the departing of the children of Israel."
(Heb. 11:22) R1646:5
Genesis 50:26
Embalmed him -- An expression of his faith in God's

promise-he wished to be buried with his people. Q596:5
Exodus
General
Excavations made in Egypt show that it was about this
time when the government of Egypt was revolutionized. In
Joseph's time, and for quite awhile before, it had been
governed by what were known as the Hyksos, or shepherd
kings-supposed to have been invaders and not of pure
Egyptian stock. The revolution brought in a change of
dynasty, supposed to have been commenced with Rameses I.
It is quite generally claimed amongst scholars that Rameses II
was the Pharaoh who specially harried the Israelites in the
endeavor to prevent their increase in numbers and influence,
and his son Menephtah I is supposed to have been the
Pharaoh reigning at the time of the exodus of the Israelites.
Rameses II is credited with having been the most wonderful
builder of great edifices of his time. It is doubtless in
connection with these that the Israelites were so rigorously
treated. R3982:3
The book of Exodus takes up and continues history from
the point where it is left in Genesis, with an express reference
to what had been related in that book. R1623:2 Israel's
history began with the death of Jacob. SM401:1 From the
time Jacob entered Egypt until the time of the exodus was 215
years. R3982:3 A memorial of the first rank with the
Israelites is the Passover. It celebrates one of the most
momentous chapters in their history; it is associated with their
national birth. OV93:1
As preceding lessons showed us how God prepared a place
for his people in Egypt and transported them thither and
planted them in the best of the land and gave them great
temporal prosperity during the lifetime of the first generation,
we now come to view them under another course of
instruction-this time in the school of adversity. R1650:3 Our
God is abundantly able to make all of life's experiences work
to our advantage and his word is sure to fulfillment in its due
time. Had Rameses adopted a different policy in dealing with
Israel they might have forgotten the promise of God which
indicated the exact time in which their deliverance from
Egypt would come. R2901:4, R3983:4 Israel's experiences
of tribulation and bondage in Egypt were probably necessary
to prepare them for God's great proposition-that they should
keep the Law and as a reward have life everlasting. SM209:3
When God called Israel as a nation out of Egypt it was under
the provision that he would make a covenant with them
through Moses. SM69:1
This chapter in the history of God's ancient people is an
illustration of the power and wisdom and love of God. And it
is a warning to beware of undertaking to contend with the
Almighty. No matter how weak or insignificant or poor or
despised among men may be the subjects of his care, the hand
that is lifted against them defies the power of Jehovah and
shall surely come to grief. The deliverance of typical Israel
from Egypt illustrates the deliverance from sin and its
bondage of all who desire to be God's servants and to have the
promised blessing as it shall be fulfilled in the utter
destruction of all the systems born of sin and selfishness
which would hinder human prosperity and advancement
toward God. R1657:2
The New Creation has a still deeper interest in those
matters which occurred in Egypt, in view of the fact that the
Lord has revealed to them the "mystery" that those things
which happened unto natural Israel were intended to typify
and foreshadow still grander things in the divine plan
respecting spiritual Israel. F457
The order of events in the exodus types is significant; they
are fulfilled in the same order by the "Prophet like unto
Moses" in the antitype. (Summary of events and fulfillments.
R1321-R1324*) Skeptics' arguments re the exodus refuted.
R2900:3, R2919:2, R3983:2, R3996:4
Exodus 1
Exodus 1:1
Which came into Egypt -- The book of Exodus takes up

with an express reference to what has been related in
Genesis. R1623:2
Exodus 1:5
And all the souls -- Nephesh, intelligent beings. E342;

R1510:2
A living soul or being can propagate other souls or beings--
offspring. E342; R1510:2
Out of the loins -- Children are of the father, by the
mother, as illustrated in Christ's birth. E99; R776:5
Jacob passed on life, organism and soul, to his posterity.
HG333:1
Seventy souls -- All males except two, Dinah and Sarah.
The females of the company, not included in the count, may
have been as many more. Additionally, there may have been
servants. R2900:2, R3982:2
Exodus 1:6
Joseph died -- 73 years after the coming of his father and

brethren to dwell in Egypt. R3982:2
Exodus 1:7
Were fruitful -- Noteworthy, since Isaac was the only

child of his mother, since Jacob was born after repeated
prayers, and since Rachel was long unfruitful. R2900:2
Increased abundantly -- Heb., "swarming." If the
population doubled every 15 years, as it did at one time in
North America, the increase of 70 men with their wives
would amount to 2,293,760 in 200 years. R2900:5
A miracle which did not continue, for 40 years later, when
entering Canaan, their male forces numbered less than when
they left Egypt. HG362:3
The land -- Of Goshen. R2900:2
Exodus 1:8
A new king -- A new dynasty-a change in the royal family

through insurrection or otherwise. R2900:5, R3982:3
Supposed to have been Rameses II, a hard-hearted, selfish
despot. R5250:3
In Joseph's time; and before Egypt had been governed by
Hyksos, or shepherd kings, supposed to have been invaders
and not of pure Egyptian stock. R3982:3
The change of dynasty commenced with Rameses I, Rameses
II being the Pharaoh who harried the Israelites, and his son,
Menephtah 1, the Pharaoh of the exodus. R3982:3, R3994:2
The mummy of Rameses II was found in 1881 and was
exhibited in a museum near the pyramid in 1892. R2900:6
Knew not Joseph -- Ignored his services to Egypt and the
tentative covenant with the Israelites. R5250:3, R1650:6
Exodus 1:9
More and mightier -- Considered them a menace. An

invading army might bribe them and thus the rule of the
Pharaohs be o
verthrown. R5250:3
Exodus 1:11
To afflict them -- Which, it was hoped, would weaken

them. R5250:6
Not to destroy nor drive them off, but merely to hold them in
check, R2900:6
As a wise father, God foresaw that too much prosperity would
be greatly to their disadvantage. R1651:4
Built for Pharaoh -- Rameses II. His mummy was found
in 1881. R2900:6
Pithom -- This city, twelve miles west of Ismalia, was
discovered in 1883, enclosed by walls of unbaked brick, the
lower courses of which are of well made brick with chopped
straw in them. Higher up the straw is long and scanty and the
last courses have no straw at all, but have sedges, rushes and
water plants. R3983:2, R5264:1, R2910:6
Exodus 1:12
And grew -- Not only zeal, but numbers also increase

under persecutions and difficulties. R2901:5
Exodus 1:14
Their lives bitter -- In Central Africa many natives

impressed into public service after this manner have
committed suicide rather than labor unrewarded. R3983:1
With hard bondage -- Not that all the Israelites were
compelled to engage in brick making, but that there were
drafts or conscriptions from time to time. R2901:1
Typifying the bondage of sin. R1652:5
Solomon similarly oppressed the Israelites, though not with
the same degree of severity and rigor, in conjunction with his
public building program. R3982:5, R2901:2
All manner of service -- Implying that the Israelites, a
pastoral people, were compelled to learn all the trades and
occupations of their masters. Being forced into an industrial
school in the foremost civilization of that day was useful
training. R5264:1
All their service -- Our present experiences and trials are
designed to work in us the "peaceable fruits of
righteousness." (Heb. 12:11) R5264:4
Was with rigour -- Tended to bind them in sympathy
more closely together as one nation, impressing upon them
their Abrahamic heritage. R3983:4
Taught them valuable lessons of humility and patience, of
dependence upon God. R1650:6
So the trials and adversities of spiritual Israel tend to draw
them nearer to each other and to the Lord. R2901:4
Exodus 1:16
Kill him -- Satan thus tried to frustrate the prophecies of

God and to destroy the channel through which the seed was to
come. R5848:1*
Exodus 2
Exodus 2:1
Went a man -- Amram, which signifies "noble people."

R2902:3
A daughter -- Jochebed, which signifies "Jehovah is
glorious." R2902:3
Exodus 2:2
Bare a son -- Moses' humble birth, as one of an enslaved

race, would naturally incline him to humility. R1651:3
That he was -- As a natural result of favorable pre-natal
influence. R1671:3
A goodly child -- Like the Apostle Paul, Moses seems to
have been chosen even before he was born. R1651:1,
R1671:6
Stephen says he was "exceedingly fair." (Acts 7:20) Josephus
says he was so handsome that passers-by would turn to gaze
after him. R3987:6
Beautiful. As careful breeding affects the lower animals, so
also it is potent in respect to humanity. R5251:1
Exodus 2:3
Laid It in the flags -- They probably knew of the custom

of the Egyptian princess to resort to that spot, or they may
have been guided by a dream. R5251:3
Exodus 2:4
And his sister -- Miriam was born about nine years before
Moses. R3987:6
Exodus 2:5
Daughter of Pharaoh -- Supposed to have been Neferari,

the wife of Rameses II and daughter of the preceding
monarch. R2903:1
A married woman, but childless. R3988:1
At the river -- Probably Memphis, near the present site of
Cairo, under the shadow of the pyramids. R3988:1
Exodus 2:8
Pharaoh's daughter said -- It is probable that the princess

perceived the ruse and cooperated, believing that the little one
might as well have its own mother as caretaker. R5251:4
Exodus 2:10
She brought him -- Probably when he was 7 or 12 years

old, by which time the parents would have instructed the boy
in respect to the Abrahamic promises. R2903:1
Became her son -- God gave Moses just the kind of
education he needed for his work-earliest years under training
of godly parents, the remainder of the first 40 years under the
most favorable education of his day, the 40 years of
retirement for mellowing and refining his character. R1651:3
His name Moses -- Supposedly derived from the Coptic,
Mo (water) and uses (saved out of it). Some translate "born
from the water." R5251:5, R3988:2
Exodus 2:11
When Moses was grown -- Moses believed that the time

had come for the deliverance. He was ready and anxious to
begin that work. He knew not of his own unreadiness.
F5252:3
He was 40 years old. R1651:6
That he went out -- Typifying that Christ, "though he was
rich, yet for our sakes he became poor." (2 Cor. 8:9).
R4058:2
Typifying how Christ left the glory of the heavenly condition,
took a bondsman's form as a man, and came to deliver his
brethren from bondage. (Phil. 2:6-8 Diaglott) R4058:2
Unto his brethren -- Refused to be called the son of
Pharaoh's daughter. (Heb. 11:24) R2909:1
He would inspire his people with confidence in him by
showing them that his sympathies were with them and that he
could be relied upon as their leader. R5252:3
Exodus 2:12
Slew the Egyptian -- How many would be inclined to

console themselves with the thought that they were not
directly responsible for the injustices whose profits they
enjoy. R2909:1
Exodus 2:14
And he said -- Typifying how Christ "came unto his own,

and his own received him not." (John 1:11) R4058:2,
R2909:3
Who made thee -- There was no such loyalty among his
brethren as he had expected. R5252:4
They had not wished his services and had rather resented his
interference. R5419:1
Exodus 2:15
Moses fled -- Fearing for his life. It looked as though all

his years of education and development had gone to waste.
Moses was now thoroughly crestfallen, meek, tractable,
teachable. R5252:4
But Moses, believing the promises, esteemed "the reproaches
of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt, for he had
respect unto the recompense of the reward." (Heb. 11:26)
R2909:2
Often spiritual Israelites find their efforts for good rejected
and coveted opportunities for the Lord turned away; yet these
very lessons fit us for future usefulness. R2909:5
The land of Midian -- Typifying the far country, even
heaven itself, to which our Jesus went after his rejection by
his people. R4058:2
Exodus 2:17
Moses stood up -- Full of the instinct of justice R5252:4
Helped them -- His natural nobleness and training made

him chivalrous in the defense of women. R2909:3
Exodus 2:21
Content to dwell -- A humble shepherd for 40 years,

learning a most important lesson of meekness, of full
submission to the divine will. A very severe lesson for one
not yet understanding God's providences in his affairs.
R5252:5, R1651:4, R2909:4
Zipporah his daughter -- Typifying the Bride of Christ,
chosen from among the Gentiles. R1651:6
Being an African, a black, the sons would, of course, be
mulattoes. R2909:4
Exodus 2:22
Bare him a son -- Being mulatto, he would have less

respect among the Israelites and there would be less tendency
to establish a rulership in the family line. R2909:5
Exodus 3
Exodus 3:1
Now Moses -- Now 80 years of age. R5418:3

Perhaps not accidental that Moses' career was divided into
two equal periods-40 years of Egyptian training followed by
40 years absence; typical of Israel's double of 1845 years.
R2909:6, R1651:6
Kept the flock -- His wandering as a shepherd in the
wilderness for 40 years made him thoroughly familiar with
the terrain; a great advantage to him later as leader of Israel
through this wilderness. R5418:6
Exodus 3:2
The angel of the LORD -- This honored messenger was

undoubtedly our Lord Jesus in his pre-human estate. E43
Appeared -- There is no reason to suppose that Moses saw
the Lord. This is one of the evidences that a spirit being can
be present, yet invisible. R155:2*
In a flame of fire -- Very little is known of the nature of a
spirit body, but the appearing as fire, etc., seems to be their
own peculiar glory as they actually are. HG28:4
In an impressive manner to give Moses courage and
confidence in his mission. PD32/43
Our Lord might have so appeared to his disciples after his
resurrection, but the evidence thus given would have been far
from being as convincing as the method he did adopt. B124
Midst of a bush -- Supposedly a thorn-bush which
sometimes grows to quite a height, known as shittim wood--
the kind of wood used in the construction of the Tabernacle.
R3989:5
Behold, the bush -- Illustrating the experience of Christ and all of his
members. R3989:6
A demonstration of divine power-to establish the faith of his servant.
R2910:4, R1652:1
Burned with fire -- Representing the fiery trials to which the Lord's
people are subject. R3989:6
Bush was not consumed -- Spiritual Israel must behold the Lord as the
great light, that his justice is as a consuming fire; but that, through Christ,
he grants us to see the light without being consumed thereby. R2910:5
Exodus 3:5
Put off thy shoes -- Even Moses, the "meekest man in all the earth,"
needed from the Lord as his first instruction a lesson in humility. R3990:1
Is holy ground -- "God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the
saints, and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him." (Psa
89:7) R2002:2
Exodus 3:6
I am the God of -- This surely meant that Abraham, Isaac and Jacob
were to be resurrected. PD32/43; R5611:4
God reminded him of the special covenant which he had made with
Abraham, Isaac and Jacob for an everlasting covenant, thus assuring
Moses that God had not forgotten the good things which he had promised.
R5261:5
Hid his face -- Moses covered his face in reverence. R5261:5
Exodus 3:7
Seen the affliction -- Just as he has seen the affliction of his people in
all ages under the reign of sin. R3990:2
Exodus 3:8
I am come down -- Showing the relationship between the Lord's

coming now and the gathering of the Church. R155:3*
To deliver them -- The Lord assures us, too, that he is both able and
willing to grant deliverance at the appropriate time. R3990:2
The deliverance did not take place immediately, nor did the deliverance of
the Church take place immediately after the second advent of Christ.
R155:3*
Exodus 3:10
Pharaoh -- Type of Satan. R5273:2, R5419:5; F458

Out of Egypt -- Satan's dominion of sin and death. R5643:1, R5273:1;
F458
Exodus 3:11
Who am I -- All the people of God who would be useful and used in his
service must learn this lesson: "Without me ye can do nothing." (John
15:5) R2910:2
Moses was so distrustful of himself that even when called of the Lord he
apologized, pleading his unfitness. He did not realize that he only then
became fit. R5261:2
His 40 years in Midian had taught Moses meekness and distrust of his
ability. He felt the magnitude of the undertaking and of his own
insufficiency. R5418:6, R1652:1, R2910:2
Exodus 3:12
I will be with thee -- The Lord assured Moses that he himself would be
responsible. R5419:1, R5262:1
Encouragement for every true servant of the Lord who humbly relies upon
his promises while striving to walk in the ways of his appointment.
R1652:1
If God be for us, and if God be with us, who can prevail against us? (Rom.
8:31) R2910:1
Like Moses, we must learn that it is not our work but God's work; not our
power or ability but the divine power working in and through us. R2909:6
Brought forth the -- Moses was a great leader, as well as the meekest of
men. SM379:1-
Upon this mountain -- That very mountain, "the mount of God," to
worship him there. R5262:1
Exodus 3:14
I AM THAT I AM -- These words signify the same as the name

Jehovah-the self-existent one, the one who always exists. From the same
root as "Jehovah." R3990:6, R5262:1, R1052:5*, R5217:3
Exodus 3:15
Thus shalt thou say -- Moses represented the entire priestly class and
the tribe of Levi in his various functions as Mediator between God and the
nation. R4390:1
Exodus 3:17
Bring you up out of -- Representing the call of God's children to come

out from the world and to engage in his worship. T25
Exodus 3:22
Shall borrow -- Shaal, asked, requested, begged. R1657:6, R2911:5,

R3996:3
Exodus 4
Exodus 4:1
Will not believe me -- Moses was distrustful of his ability and was
fearful and reluctant. R5419:1
Exodus 4:2
What Is that in thine hand? -- God can use our humblest talent to his
praise. If, then, we would serve, we should look to see what we have in
our hands. R5419:2
A rod -- Signifying divine authority. R4058:4
A special manifestation of divine power and rule. R5419:5
Exodus 4:3
Became a serpent -- Symbolizing that all the evil there is in the world
is the result of God's having let go of his rod of authority temporarily.
R4058:4
Those things closest to us might become injurious except for God's power
to overrule. R5419:2
Antitype may be that the power of God may appear to be evil. Evil has
seemed to triumph for these 6000 years. R5419:5
Exodus 4:4
Put forth his hand -- Typifying God's purpose to lay hold upon present
evil conditions. R4058:4
It became a rod -- Typifying the re-establishment of divine authority.
R4058:4
Representing God's power to turn evil things into good things through the
operation of faith. R2910:4, R5419:3
From this we should realize that of ourselves we could accomplish nothing.
R5419:2
Exodus 4:6
He put his hand -- Leprosy is a symbol of sin. Divine power was first
manifested without sin or imperfection or blemish (in Jesus Christ);
secondly, that the same divine power, hidden for a time, was
afterward manifest in sin and imperfection (in his Body members); and
thirdly, that the same divine power, hidden again for a time, will
subsequently be manifest without sin (in the glorified Christ). R4059:2
Exodus 4:7
Was turned again -- By and by the Church is to be received into his

bosom and "changed" in the first resurrection. R4059:3
As his other flesh -- Be used again of the Lord as his agent in stretching
forth his rod and bringing forth the plagues, and delivering the residue of
God's people. R4059:3
Exodus 4:8
Voice of the first sign -- Literature on the subject of "Why evil was
permitted" has been circulated to the extent of millions of copies
throughout the world ever since the year 1879. R4058:6
Voice of the latter sign -- The sign of the leprous hand-the "Millennial
Dawn" series of volumes (later called "Studies in the Scriptures"), the first
of which was published in 1886. In these books the relationship between
justification, sanctification and deliverance is distinctly shown. R4059:4
Exodus 4:9
Water of the river -- The truth, as contained in millions of pages of

tracts, poured upon the symbolic earth, society, liberally on many lands and
in many languages. R4059:6
Upon the dry land -- Typifying society. R4059:5
Shall become blood -- To society the truth seems repulsive,
undesirable, bloody. They not only view the typical sacrifices as bloody
but they resent the thought that the antitypical sacrifice for sins was the
death (blood) of Christ. R4060:1
Exodus 4:10
I am not eloquent -- Moses was so meek that he could not realize that
with divine help he would be successful. R5262:2
Exodus 4:11
Have not I -- He is the author of all life and indirectly our Creator.
R2902:2
Exodus 4:12
I will be with thy mouth -- So God declares to the humble ones now;
that having no confidence in ourselves, we should have every confidence in
God. R5262:4
Exodus 4:16
And he -- Aaron represents the Royal Priesthood still in the flesh, still
sacrificing. R4058:3
Be thy spokesman -- The Lord Jesus does not address himself to the
true Israelites in person now, but through a mouthpiece. R4058:3
Unto the people -- All true Israelites. R4058:3
Be to him instead of God -- Moses was to be like God unto Aaron in
that he would tell Aaron what he should say and do. Q498:5
Moses, not Aaron, was the one competent for the great work because of his
schooling. Aaron was his servant, or mouthpiece, speaking only as
authorized by Moses in whom, because of his meekness, God was reposing
the responsibility. R5262:4, R4537:1; PD32/44
Exodus 4:21
Harden his heart -- It was God's goodness that hardened Pharaoh.

When the Lord relieved the people and the land from one plague, Pharaoh
concluded that it was past and that perhaps no more would come; and so,
step by step, God's mercy led him further and further in his hostility.
F176; PD33/44; R2911:2, R4703:1
Exodus 4:22
Israel is my son -- "Out of Egypt have I called my son." (Matt. 2:15)

R1681:6
Exodus 4:26
The circumcision -- Symbolizing a cutting off, a separation from the

flesh, its aims, hopes and desires. R3022:3
Exodus 4:27
Said to Aaron -- Representing the sacrificial work of Christ as the

Priest. The sons of Aaron represented the Church. R4011:3
Into the wilderness -- The meeting of Moses and Aaron seems to
symbolize the beginning of the Gospel age. R4011:3
To meet Moses -- Moses represented the future work of Christ as the
leader and commander of the people. The Church was also typically
represented in the body of Moses. R4011:3
Met him -- Aaron meeting Moses represents a company meeting Christ
in the Kingdom. R82:2*
The mount of God -- Mount Horeb, one of the peaks of Mt. Sinai.
R4011:3
Exodus 5
Exodus 5:2
And Pharaoh -- Supposed to have been Menephtah. R3994:2

Type of Satan. R5273:2, R5419:5; F458
I know not the LORD -- Moses was met with derision. It was a time of
testing to the faith, not only of Moses and Aaron, but of all Israelites.
R5263:6
He considered the sun god of the Egyptians the powerful one. R5271:5
Exodus 5:7
Straw for themselves -- One of the cities built by the Hebrews that has
been discovered is the Egyptian city of Pithom, discovered in 1883. It
corroborates the Biblical narrative with increasingly inferior bricks being
used on upper courses. R3983:3
Exodus 5:9
More work -- Thus their tasks were practically doubled. But by these
very bitter experiences the people were all the more prepared to welcome
liberty. Similarly, we should appreciate the privilege of being set free from
the power of sin and death and of being inducted into God's family.
R5263:6
Exodus 5:12
The land of Egypt -- Satan's dominion of sin and death. R5643:1,

R5273:1; F458
Exodus 5:17
He said, Ye are idle - As some of the hard-hearted will doubtless say to

the poor in the coming time of trouble. A336
Exodus 6
Exodus 6:3
God Almighty -- Hebrew, El Shaddai. R1410:6

A mighty one-a general term, applied to Jehovah, to Jesus, to angels, and to
men. R379:2, R421:3, R1410:3
My name JEHOVAH -- Jehovah is not a general name, like the word
"god," but a proper name, the distinctive personal name of the Almighty
Father. R1410:6
In our common version its distinctiveness as a name is lost, being generally
rendered, "the LORD." R338:3, R421:4
The name Jehovah, like other proper names, should not be translated.
R1410:6
Jehovah means He who is, or He who will be. R1052:5*
"Self-Existing One" or "The Immortal One." E40
This name belongs only to the Father. E65; R379:5
Exodus 6:4
The land of Canaan -- Type of the heavenly rest. T25
Exodus 6:5
Keep in bondage -- Type of bondage of all men to sin and death. F458
Exodus 6:13
Children of Israel -- Type of all who ultimately become God's people.

F458; R5641:1, R5870:1
Land of Egypt -- Satan's dominion of sin and death. R5643:1,
R5273:1; F458
Exodus 6:16
Gershon -- "Refugees" or "Rescued"; type of those of mankind saved

during the Millennial age. F129
And Kohath -- "Ally" or "Comrade"; type of the Ancient Worthies.
F129
And Merari -- "Bitterness"; type of the Great Company, saved so as by
fire, through bitter experiences. F129
Exodus 6:18
Amram -- "High people" or "Exalted people"; type of the Little Flock.

F128
Exodus 7
Exodus 7:1
Made thee a god -- Elohim, mighty one, a name applied to Jehovah as

well as to men. E68; R338:2, R421:3, R1410:3
Exodus 7:3
Harden Pharaoh's heart -- See comment on Exodus 4:21.
Exodus 7:4
By great judgments -- The plagues were doubtless a full compensation

of justice upon the Egyptians. R5271:3
Exodus 7:7
Fourscore -- The fourscore, or twice forty, would bring us to 1878 in

the antitype when Christ spake to Pharaoh (the world) by an act, in
restoring Israel to favor. R181:6*
Exodus 7:9
Shew a miracle -- These three signs signified certain truths which, in

the present time, will be convincing to the Lord's true people. R2910:5
Exodus 7:10
Became a serpent -- Symbolizing that all the evil there is in the world
is the result of God's having let go of his rod or authority temporarily.
R4058:4
Exodus 7:11
Then Pharaoh -- Type of Satan. R5273:2, R5419:5, R2910:2; F458

And the sorcerers -- Sorcery, witchcraft and enchantments are
manifestations of Satan and of demons for the delusion of mankind.
R2110:2, R2189:3
Magicians -- Satan's mediums. R341:1*
The names of these magicians are given to us in 2 Tim. 3:8, where it is
stated that, as Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses, so certain ones today
resist the message of God. R3994:5, R4060:2, R2189:3
Of Egypt -- Satan's dominion of sin and death. R5643:1, R5273:1;
F458
Exodus 7:12
They became serpents -- Symbolizing the various views of the

permission of evil which have been put forth by theologians of the past.
R4060:4
Perhaps in some way the power of God will appear to be evil. Somehow
God will permit the world, under the power of Satan, to have an hour of
triumph during a great time of trouble. R5419:5
There are but two sources of occult power-divine and satanic. R5271:5
The Egyptian plagues were miraculous from one standpoint; not so from
another. R5271:2
Duplicated under Satan's knowledge of natural laws. R1685:3
Some have surmised that they performed a trick common in India by
hypnotizing a serpent. We are not sure, however, that the magicians did
not do more than this. R5271:5
Satan's first agent was the serpent. R265:3
The powers of darkness have liberty and ability to perform wonders of
certain kinds under certain circumstances. R2206:6
But Aaron's rod -- The correct view on the permission of evil is such
that it quite swallows up all the suggestions and theories of the past.
R4060:4
Exodus 7:13
And he hardened -- See comment on Exodus 4:21.
Exodus 7:14
The people -- In the antitype it will be the "groaning creation" that will
be delivered. R2910:2
Exodus 7:16
Let my people go -- Representing the call of the Christian Church to

come out from the world and to engage in his worship. T25
In the wilderness -- Condition of separation from the world. T70
Exodus 7:20
All the waters -- The first three plagues were common to all in Egypt.
The next six plagues affected only the Egyptians. R5640:3, R5272:2
The truth, as contained in millions of pages of tracts, poured upon the
symbolic earth, society, liberally in many lands and in many languages.
R4059:6
Were turned to blood -- Perhaps it resulted from the inconceivably
rapid growth of microscopic animals (infusoria) and minute cryptogamous
plants of a red color. R3994:5, R5271:6
To society the truth seems repulsive, undesirable, bloody. They resent even
the thought that the sacrifice for sins was the blood of Christ. R4060:1
Almost as miraculous as the turning of water into wine by our Lord at
Cana. R5271:6
Exodus 7:24
The Egyptians digged around -- The world (Christendom,

Churchianity) seek for truth in various ways of their own. R4060:4
Exodus 8
Exodus 8:5
Cause frogs to come -- Vast numbers come to Egypt at times, but never
in so great numbers as on this occasion. R5272:1
Exodus 8:7
And the magicians -- Sorcery, witchcraft and enchantments are

manifestations of Satan and of demons for the delusion of mankind.
R2110:2, R2189:3
With their enchantments -- Using Satan's knowledge of natural laws.
R1685:3
Brought up frogs -- Satan and the fallen angels may be permitted some
power in creating pests. Q265:4
Exodus 8:8
Intreat the LORD -- While Pharaoh's magicians duplicated the first

two plagues, they were unable to take away the frogs. R5272:1
Take away the frogs -- The Egyptians worshipped the froghead
goddess, Heka. Thus this plague was a special reproach and particularly
severe because it was not lawful for Egyptians to kill frogs. R3994:6
Exodus 8:16
May become lice -- The Revised Version margin renders the word
"lice" as sandflies, or fleas. R3994:6
The word "lice" probably means "dust ticks." R5272:2
Exodus 8:17
Throughout all the land -- The miracle was producing these ticks in
unusual numbers and places. R5272:2
Exodus 8:18
But they could not -- Doubtless, however, the fallen spirits have
learned much since then and are probably now responsible for many of the
plagues, pests and microbes afflicting plant and animal life. R2189:3
Exodus 8:19
The finger of God -- The first definition of a miracle. R3995:1
Exodus 8:21
Swarms of flies -- Or beetles, the Hebrew word signifies a mixture of

various swarms of insects. R3995:1
Gnats, mosquitoes, house flies and cattle flies. R5272:2
These plagues upon Egypt were intended in some measure to foreshadow,
to illustrate, the plagues with which this Gospel age will end-the first three
and the "seven last plagues." (Rev. 15:1) F175
Exodus 8:23
Put a division -- Both here and in Revelation the first three affected
both Israel and Egypt, but the Israelites were exempted from the last seven.
R3994:4
In Revelation the first three plagues are called the woe trumpets and
following them come the "seven last trumpets." R3994:4
Exodus 8:27
Three days' journey -- Nothing was said respecting their non-intention

of returning, for they had the same right to depart as to come to Egypt.
R2910:6
Exodus 9
Exodus 9:3
Grievous murrain -- A kind of epizootic or contagious fever affecting

all domestic animals. R3995:1
Murrain (from the Latin, morior, to die), a disease resembling the
Russian epizootic. R5272:4
See final comment on Exodus 8:21.
Exodus 9:8
Toward the heaven -- Possibly in allusion to the furnace of affliction

through which the Hebrews had been passing, or possibly in sarcastic
imitation of the methods of Egyptian priests, who yearly offered sacrifices
of burnt human bodies to Typhon, the god of evil, scattering the ashes thus
in the air. R3995:2
Exodus 9:9
Shall be a boil -- See final comment on Exodus 8:21.
Exodus 9:14
All my plagues -- Typified the great time of trouble. R3994:4

In three groups of three each. In the first three, Aaron's rod was used; in
the second three, the rod was not used; in the last three, Moses' rod was
used. In the first three, there was full warning; in the second, less warning;
in the third, no warning. R3994:3
Exodus 9:16
For this cause -- The ten plagues upon the Egyptians were
manifestations of divine justice. OV93:1
God did not approve of Pharaoh, but used him to show forth his own glory.
Q501:5
With a weaker man the Lord's power would have been less displayed.
R3994:2
I raised thee up -- God has it in his own hand to set up or pull down
rulers and he orders the matter with a view to the impressing of certain
lessons. R3994:2
Amongst the various heirs to the throne of Egypt, God so ordered that this
particular Pharaoh should come to the throne because he possessed such
obstinacy. F175; PD33/44; R5305:3
God raised up to the throne a stubborn ruler so as to teach a great lesson
respecting divine tenderness, gentleness and forgiveness, and that God's
greatest blessing to mankind-a free will-may be perverted by Satan to work
his greatest injury. R5263:3
Exodus 9:18
Very grievous hall -- See final comment on Exodus 8:21.
Exodus 9:23
Thunder and hail -- Both unusual in Egypt. R3995:2

And the fire -- Lightning. R3995:2
Symbolic, signifying that God's indignation would burn against every one
who is wicked. R5317:2
Exodus 9:26
The land of Goshen -- The murrain (and later plagues) were kept from
them in the land of Goshen, thus proving God's care. R5272:4
Was there no hail -- Similarly, the symbolic hail of the seventh plague
of Revelation will smite down and subdue those only who are in opposition
to it, and that for their good. R511:6
Exodus 10
Exodus 10:4
Bring the locusts -- Although immense swarms of locusts often come to

Egypt from Nubia, this would be recognized as a plague because of its
announcement and the exemption of the Hebrews. R3995:2
Sometimes to a depth of 15 inches. R5272:4
Exodus 10:21
May be darkness -- Probably caused by dense sandstorms of fine sand,

obscuring the light. R3995:3
Exodus 11
Exodus 11:1
One more plague -- See final comment on Exodus 8:21.

It has been surmised that these 10 plagues upon Egypt began about July
1st and lasted until the following April, in all about 9 months. R2911:3,
R5271:3, 6
The last, or tenth plague, represents the bitter experiences of the world at
the end of the present age. R2920:1
Exodus 11:2
Borrow -- Misleading translation of the Hebrew word shaal. The

Israelites did not borrow, but asked for (as in R.V.) as just payment for past
services. R1657:6, R2911:5, R3996:3
Exodus 11:4
About midnight -- The passing over took place in the night,

representing this Gospel age. R3996:3, R4875:3, R4966:6, R5273:1;
SM559:3; Q693:8; CR471:2; PD33/44
Exodus 11:5
Shall die -- The Egyptian first-born became a retribution for the

Israelitish babes they had caused to be drowned in the Nile. R2911:4
Exodus 11:6
Throughout all the land -- The last, the tenth plague, was common to
the entire land of Egypt, including the Israelites, except as they would show
faith and obedience. R5640:3
Exodus 11:10
Would not let -- The plagues constitute a retribution against Egypt for
their unjust oppression of Israel. R2911:2
Exodus 12
Exodus 12:1
In the land of Egypt -- Satan's dominion of sin and death. R5643:1,

R5273:1; F458
Exodus 12:2
The beginning of months -- The Passover was the first feature of the
Law given Israel as a typical people. R839:1
The new year always began with the appearance of the first new moon after
the spring equinox. R1289:3
The new moon which came closest to the spring equinox was reckoned as
the beginning of the ecclesiastical year, the first day of the month Nisan.
R5642:2, R3961:2
The nearest new moon about or after the equinox, but not much before,
was chosen as the commencement of the year. R4127:2, R5191:2,
R2270:3
Knowing when to expect the equinox, the Elders of Israel accepted the
appearance of the new moon whose full would be about the harvest time,
and after the equinox. R2429:5
Exodus 12:3
In the tenth day -- The choosing of the lamb on the tenth day
foreshadowed our Lord Jesus' presenting himself to Israel at the close of
his ministry as their king. R2918:2, R5191:4, R1289:4, R839:2, R465:5
Showing that if Israel would be recognized as the Church of the first-born
in the antitypical passover, they must accept Jesus then, five days before
that Passover feast and four days before his crucifixion. R5191:4
A lamb -- Each lamb represented the Lamb of God which taketh away
the sin of the world. (John 1:29) F460
"Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us." (1 Cor. 5:7) F463
For an house -- Each house of Israel represented the household of faith,
the Lord's new household. In celebrating the last Passover supper, which
was to be kept by each family apart, the Lord met with his 12 apostles as a
separate family--separate from all of their connections and his. F460,
F589
Exodus 12:5
Lamb -- Paul tells us that Christ is our Passover lamb, slain for us. (1
Cor. 5:7) R4966:6
Jesus, the Lamb of God-spotless, pure, holy, harmless, undefiled. R5273:5
The man Christ Jesus was the antitype of the Passover lamb slain by the
Israelites. R5847:1
Without blemish -- Showing the perfection and purity of Christ, our
lamb. R211:5*, R1186:6
Exodus 12:6
The fourteenth day -- The day in which the Paschal lamb was to be
killed and eaten. R5191:4
Foreshadowing the fact that, in God's plan, Jesus was to die at that time.
R465:3
The moon was at its full at the time of Christ's crucifixion. R2270:6,
R5191:3
The moon is the symbol of the Law covenant and of the people who were
under it. Christ's crucifixion at the full of the moon, and the fact that the
moon immediately began to wane, foreshadowed Israel's national decline.
F481; R1289:3
The 12, and sometimes 13, lunations symbolize the tribes of Israel. After
the crucifixion it immediately began to wane, and waned for as long as it
had previously increased. So Christ's death was the turning point between
the two equal parts of Israel's history. R2270:6, R5191:3, R1289:3
Shall kill it -- The eating of the supper on the night preceding our Lord's
death, and yet the same day, was made possible by the Jewish custom that
began each day in the evening. F462
In the evening -- See marginal reading. On the fourteenth day, between
the evenings, between six p.m., where the day began, and the next six
p.m., where it ended. R2918:2, R5191:3, R1289:4, R839:2, R465:3,
R2115:5
The Jews had two evenings, one from noon to 3 o'clock, and the other from
3 o'clock until sunset. It was between these two evenings that the Paschal
lamb was to be slain, and so was Jesus, the antitype. R2953:5*
Exodus 12:7
Take of the blood -- A striking figure of giving "life for life"--the

requirement of divine justice before the condemned could be justified.
R1321:6*
Not the eating of the unleavened wafers and roasted lamb, but because of
the blood, they were passed over. R3454:2*
Strike it on the -- The striking was a symbol, commanded at the
beginning. Q524:4
The sprinkling of the lamb's blood symbolizes the imputation of the merit
of the death of Jesus to the entire household of faith. R5640:5, R3959:5
The sprinkling of the blood indicated that all of the household of faith must
believe in the precious blood of Christ. SM561:1; PD33/44
The sprinkling of the blood on the door-posts in the type implied public
confession of the precious blood of the Lamb of God. SM561:2
The sprinkling of the door-posts of the heart with his blood: "Having their
hearts sprinkled from a consciousness of evil." (Heb. 10:22) F463
Of the houses -- Not merely upon the first-borns, but upon the house,
indicating the household of faith. R5273:5
Exodus 12:8
They shall eat the flesh -- Jesus' sacrifice, the merit of his earthly
perfection, was to be eaten, or appropriated, in the mind. R4703:4
We each have appropriated his flesh, his human nature, which is sacrificed
on our behalf. We are hoping to be passed over on account of the blood
without and the lamb within, as members of the Church of the first-born.
R4966:6
As in the antitype, the Passover lamb was for their deliverance from Egypt,
so our Lord delivers his people from Satan's yoke of bondage to sin.
R5847:1
The shedding of the blood gives life, but we need more--strength for the
journey of life, through heavenly food. R1321:6*
The eating of the lamb typified our appropriating justification from sin.
SM562:2
In that night -- This entire Gospel age is the antitype of that night.
R3996:3, R4875:3, R4996:6, R5273:1, R17:4; SM559:3; Q693:8;
CR471:2; PD33/44
The 6000 years in which sin and death have held sway are a night time.
R5273:1
Unleavened bread -- Truth, in its purity. R208:1
It symbolized the precious promises which come to us from the Heavenly
Father through Christ. R2918:3, R4703:4
Leaven is a type of sin, and the symbol declares that our Lord Jesus was
free from sin. R5192:4; T98
Symbolically, without the corruption (leaven) of human theory, blight,
ambitions, selfishness, etc. F464; T98
With bitter herbs -- Bitter experiences and trials which the Lord
prepares for us, and which help wean our affections from earthly things
and give us increased appetite to feed upon the Lamb and the unleavened
bread of truth. R5870:4, R4703:4, R2116:1, R208:1, R17:4; F460
Exodus 12:10
Nothing of it remain -- Signifying that the privilege of participation in

the Lord's sacrifice is confined to the Gospel age. R2116:4, R212:5*
Exodus 12:11
With your loins girded -- Loins girt about with truth. (Eph. 6:14)
R212:2*
Shoes on your feet -- Your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel
of peace. (Eph. 6:15) R212:2*
Staff in your hand -- As pilgrims and strangers. F461; R4703:2,
R208:1
Ready for the journey, with full expectancy that the Lord would make the
Egyptians willing to let them go and that they would share in this calamity
were it not for the blood upon the door-posts and lintels. R5640:3
Passover -- The term Passover signifies to pass by, or spare from an
affliction. R1657:2
Exodus 12:12
This night -- Symbolizing this Gospel age, a time of darkness on the

earth. R4875:3, R4966:6, R5273:1, R3996:3; SM559:3; Q693:8;
CR471:2; PD33/44
Firstborn -- The first-born of Israel typified spirit begotten ones now
saved from sin and death as the Church of the firstborn. R4966:6
The gods of Egypt -- The princes of Egypt, elohim. R1410:3
Exodus 12:13
See the blood -- The blood of Christ must be ever recognized in our
hearts and confessed, manifested, and declared outwardly to others.
R3996:6
I will pass over you -- Faith in the precious blood is the only ground of
acceptance with God. R3996:1
The Passover lamb and its blood preserved, "passed over," the first-born
ones only, typical of the Church of the first-borns. R4384:3
To destroy you -- Only the first-born were in danger, typifying that in
the present time only the Church of the first-born has sufficient knowledge
to be in danger of the Second Death. R3995:5
Exodus 12:14
For a memorial -- The followers of Jesus are to celebrate the antitype

yearly, as the Israelites had done, but now in remembrance of the reality
and not of the type. R1657:5
Keep it a feast -- What Jesus commemorated was the killing of the
Passover lamb and not the "Feast of the Passover" which followed it for
seven days. R208:2
It was not the intention of our Lord to commemorate the Feast of the
Passover, which began the 15th of Nisan, but merely his death on the 14th.
R1942:6
Typical of both the deliverance of spiritual Israel from the bondage of sin
and the ultimate deliverance of all who love righteousness from Satan's
bondage by his complete overthrow during the Millennium. R2379:6
An ordinance for ever - An event so widely observed for so long a time
(more than 3300 years) must have a foundation in fact. R3959:2
To be observed yearly as a memorial of God's goodness and because it
typed a still greater blessing to come. R4703:2
The Lord's Supper takes the place of the Passover supper as a Memorial of
the antitype, a remembrance of the fulfillment of the antitypical Passover.
F463
Exodus 12:15
Ye shall put away -- Anything containing leaven or putrefaction-bones,

crusts, everything. So we must " put away the old leaven" of anger,
malice, hatred, strife. R5193:3
Leaven -- Symbol of corruption, sin. R5192:4, R2399:6; F464; T98
Exodus 12:16
First day ... seventh day -- On the 15th day the Passover Feast began,
lasting seven days, the first and seventh days observed as specially holy, as
Sabbath days or "high" days. R2270:5, R5191:3
Holy convocation -- Some claim that the Jews had an abrupt beginning
of weeks with the beginning of the Passover which was always counted a
sabbath and the new start of a cycle. R2115:5
Exodus 12:17
Observe the feast -- By rejoicing in, and partaking of, the good things
of God. R1800:3
Exodus 12:18
The fourteenth day -- A picture of the passing over of the Church of

the first-born. Q525:1
Exodus 12:19
No leaven -- A reminder (1) of the haste with which they fled, not
having time to wait for the bread to rise; and (2) of their sufferings in
Egypt, hence called "the bread of affliction" (Deut. 16:3); but (3)
primarily to signify the putting away of sin. R1800:2, R5390:2
Although no command to fast 40 days of " lenten season," those who
voluntarily fast and pray will be blest according to their faith. R2116:4
Exodus 12:22
Bunch of hyssop -- Symbol of purging, cleansing. R1872:5; T109

None of you shall go out -- If any abide not under the covering of the
blood of Christ he must surely perish. R1657:2, R131:5
None of the nominal first-born shall be passed over and become members
of the Church in glory except those who, during this night, abide under the
blood. R2272:5
Until the morning -- And so the deliverance of spiritual Israel comes in
the Millennial morning. "God shall help her, early in the morning." (Psa.
46:5, Margin) R2918:3
Exodus 12:23
The blood -- Symbolizing the application of the merit of the death of

Jesus to the entire household of faith. R3959:5, R5640:5
By faith the merit of Jesus' sacrifice, his blood, is to be sprinkled on the
door-posts of our hearts. R4703:4
The blood sprinkled on the door-posts typed faith in the blood of Christ.
PD33/44; SM561:1
Pass over the door -- The Passover night typified this Gospel age,
during which the Church of the first-borns are to be specially saved.
PD33/44; R4966:6
Exodus 12:27
The LORD'S passover -- The first feature of the Law. OV74:T, B47
Represented the death of Jesus and the passing over of his people during
this age. Q525:3
The passing over will be the resurrection. CR471:3
Exodus 12:29
The firstborn -- Only the first-borns, the Church of Christ, are now
being passed over; only these are in danger of the destroying angel.
R5870:2
The special object in confining the plague to the first-born was to show
that only the first-born of the Hebrews were spared or passed over.
R3995:5
Exodus 12:30
Pharaoh -- Typifies Satan. R5273:2, R5419:5; F458

In the night -- The Gospel age is the antitype of that night. R3996:3,
R4875:3, R4966:6, R5273:1; SM559:3; Q693:8; CR471:2; PD33/44
The Egyptians -- Typifying Satan's servants who have oppressed God's
people during the night of sin and death. R5273:2, R5643:1, F458
Exodus 12:31
Get you forth -- As in the first exodus, so in the next exodus,

apparently some pressure will suddenly be brought to bear upon the
nations which will result favorably to Israel. D554
Exodus 12:32
And bless me also -- Doubtless representing a changed attitude at the

close of the time of trouble of some who now oppress the poor. A336
Exodus 12:35
Borrowed -- Misleading translation of the Hebrew word shaal. The

Israelites did not borrow, but asked for (as in R.V.), as just payment for
past services. R1657:6, R2911:5, R3996:3
Exodus 12:36
So that they lent -- Gave. R2911:5

Spoiled the Egyptians -- This was quite proper anyway, as the
equivalent of back pay due the Israelites. R2911:6
Exodus 12:37
About 600,000 on foot -- Possibly 600 groups, families or tents. (This

idea rebutted in a letter on R5355:4*.) R5277:2
In a somewhat similar case, 400,000 Tartars left Russia under cover of a
single night. R3997:1
Exodus 12:40
Now the sojourning -- From the covenant with Abraham to the exodus.
B46
Who dwelt In Egypt -- For a portion of the period, and who previous
to that time sojourned in the loins of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, even as
Levi paid tithes to Melchizedec while yet in Abraham's loins. B47
Not that they sojourned in Egypt 430 years, but the sojourning of the
people who dwelt in Egypt was that many years. HG1O4:3
Was 430 years -- One-half of 430 years. R2482:2*
The statements of Moses and Paul (Gal. 3:17) refer to precisely the same
period, from the covenant with Abraham to the giving of the Law. B47;
R2482:3*, R1980:2; HG44:2
Exodus 12:41
The selfsame day -- Illustrating the accuracy of Bible chronology. B48

All the hosts of the LORD -- During the night the Israelites were still in
bondage, waiting for the deliverance which could come only after the
passing over of the first-borns. SM560:T
Went out -- Typifying the ultimate deliverance of the world. CR471:3
Egypt -- Satan's dominion of sin and death. R5643:1, R5273:1; F458
Exodus 12:43
This is the ordinance -- The beginning of the Law. B47; OV74:T
Exodus 12:44
When thou hast circumcised -- The Passover stood in a certain relation

to circumcision, as the second sacrament of the Hebrew church. F484*
Exodus 12:46
In one house -- In other sacrifices, the body was cut into various pieces,
showing Christ and the Church. Thus this represented Christ alone in his
sacrifice. SM559:2
Break a bone thereof -- "A bone of him shall not be broken." (John
19:36) R198:2
Exodus 12:49
Unto the stranger -- The Mosaic Law was 32 centuries ahead of its
time. A50
Exodus 13
Exodus 13:2
All the firstborn -- Afterwards these first-born ones were represented

by the tribe of Levi. R1657:2
Typifying the Church only; not our Lord Jesus. Q524:6
Exodus 13:7
There be leaven -- Symbol of corruption, sin. R5192:4, R2022:4,

R2635:1; F464; T98
Exodus 13:10
Year to year -- Our Lord altered the manner, but not the time; and, as
he has not altered the time, we dare not. It is our privilege to observe the
anniversary. R803:2
Exodus 13:12
That openeth the matrix -- In conformity with this, the mother of Jesus
presented him in consecration. (Luke 2:21-23) Q757:5
Exodus 13:15
All the firstborn -- Only the first-born was in danger, typifying that in
the present time only the Church of the first-born has sufficient knowledge
to be in danger of Second Death. R3995:5
Exodus 13:16
Frontlets -- A phylactery, a little square leather box, containing four

passages of Scripture. R4053:1
Exodus 13:18
Way of the wilderness -- The best of three roads for them, leading
through the wild mountain regions of Sinai. R5277:3
Went up harnessed -- In military order, either five abreast or in five
companies. R2919:2
Exodus 13:19
The bones of Joseph -- Israel hoped for a resurrection from the tomb
and hence they were particular in caring for the corpses of their dead.
R2601:6
Exodus 13:21
Pillar of a cloud -- Shielding us from the things that would be too

trying for us. R4029:6
Affording them a measure of shelter from the heat of the sun. R3997:2
The Lord's providences guide us and shelter us from the heat of
persecution. R3997:3
To lead them the way -- The leading of divine providence is ours until
we pass over Jordan into heavenly Canaan. R3997:3
Only when they finally crossed Jordan into Canaan was this phenomenon
discontinued. R3997:2
A pillar of fire -- Enlightenment in darkness and God's keeping,
protecting power. R4029:6
To give them light -- At other times, the Lord's providences enlighten
us in dark seasons. R3997:3
Exodus 14
Exodus 14:2
That they turn -- This turn was perhaps necessary because of the great
wall of Egypt, somewhat similar to the great wall of China, and the route
taken was more favorable for pasturage, etc. R2919:2
From northeast to south; mis-interpreted by the Egyptians as becoming
entangled in the land. R3997:4
And the sea -- The Bitter Lakes, which lengthen out the northernmost
tongue of the Red Sea. R3997:4
Exodus 14:3
They are entangled -- They are lost. R3997:4

Shut them In -- Having passed between two mountain ranges, up
against the northern arm of the Red Sea, they had gone into a pen from
which there was no escape. R5277:5
Exodus 14:4
Harden Pharaoh's heart -- See comment on Exodus 4:21

Exodus 14:8
Of Pharaoh -- Type of Satan. R5273:2, R5419:5; F458

Of Egypt -- Satan's dominion of sin and death. R5643:1, R5273:1;
F458
And he pursued -- The powers that be may possibly concede for a time
the demands of the weak and helpless and then attempt their recapture
under selfishness, and through a Red Sea of trouble the Lord will
administer a final chastisement. R2920:1
F458; R5641:1, R5870:1
Exodus 14:9
But the Egyptians -- Typifying Satan's servants who have oppressed

God's people. R5273:2, R5641:3; F458
All the horses -- Symbolic of false doctrines. C316
And chariots -- Symbolic of worldly organizations. C316
And his horsemen -- Symbolic of the great leaders in false doctrines.
C316
Symbolic of fallen angels and men. F458
By the sea -- The Red Sea, representing the Second Death. F459
Exodus 14:13
Stand still and see -- The duty of God's people toward the perplexing
questions of the present time. A342
Sometimes we come to the very end of all human possibilities. Then, and
not till then, should we apply these words of Moses to ourselves. R5278:4
Exodus 14:15
Go forward -- There is a time to pray and also a time to act. R2919:4

In giving and obeying this command faith was demonstrated. Does not the
Lord sometimes allow adversities and oppositions to hedge us in? This is
the time to hearken to his voice and, in faith, go forward. R3997:6
Exodus 14:16
Go on dry ground -- On a sand bar. R3998:2, R4623:5, R5277:6,

R2919:5
Midst of the sea -- The water at the upper end of the Red Sea is at no
great depth, so that at times, when the tide is low, cavalry have
forded it--for instance, Napoleon. R3998:1, R2919:6
Exodus 14:19
The angel of God -- Not always a being; sometimes signifying the

exercise of divine power in connection with human affairs. R5278:1
Cloud -An evidence of the Lord's special care over them, a great aid to
their faith, discontinued when they crossed Jordan into Canaan. R3997:2
Exodus 14:20
A cloud -- From the world's standpoint, very dark; from our

standpoint, the healing rays of the sun. R577:2
And darkness -- Josephus and other outside narratives declare that it
rained, thundered and lightened appallingly. R2919:5
But it gave light -- Matters appear differently from different
standpoints. Since the storm is to scatter the powers of darkness, the
sooner it comes the better. R577:2
Exodus 14:22

F458, R5641:1, R5870:1
A wall -- A barricade, protection, shield. R3998:3, R4623:5, R5278:1
Exodus 14:24
Host of the Egyptians -- Typifying Satan's servants who have

oppressed God's people. R5273:2, R5641:2; F458
Exodus 14:27
Overthrew the Egyptians -- At the end of the Millennial age Satan and
all who are on his side will be forever destroyed. R3999:4
Midst of the sea -- A reversal of the wind would cause the return of the
waters. R4623:5
The present enslaving agencies will be overthrown by anarchy, in the great
time of trouble, now near. R1657:5
Exodus 14:28
The waters returned -- Opposite Suez, the tide rises eight to nine feet
when aided by strong winds, returning with unusual suddenness and
power after the ebb. R3998:3*
The host of Pharaoh -- Representing all who eventually will go into
Second Death. R5870:1
Exodus 14:29

F458, R5641:1, R5870:1
Dry land -- On a sand bar. R3998:2, R4623:5
Midst of the sea -- Possibly two miles across. R3998:2
Were a wall -- In its broadest sense merely signifies a barricade,
protection, shield. R3998:3, R4623:5, R5278:1
Exodus 14:30
The LORD saved -- Picturing the deliverance of all the obedient after
the plagues. (Rev. 16) R1657:3
Exodus 15
Exodus 15:1
Then sang Moses -- This song, typifying the song of deliverance

referred to in the book of Revelation as "the song of Moses and the Lamb,"
is noted by scholars as containing an intermingling of Egyptian words.
R3998:6
This song unto the LORD -- Singing songs of praise, one of the most
interesting and profitable methods of worship, is acceptable only when it
represents true heart sentiments. R5278:2
I will sing -- "If I do not remember thee, let my tongue cleave to the
roof of my mouth." (Psa. 137:6) R2031:5
Exodus 15:2
The LORD -- Not by any human might. R2934:4

Become my salvation -- Already, for we have already passed from
death unto life and have the witness of this in the holy Spirit. R2934:4
Exodus 15:3
Is a man of war -- When he rises up to judgment against the nations.

D549
Exodus 15:8
And with the blast -- Ruach, spirit, invisible power or influence. E174
Exodus 15:10
Blow with thy wind -- Ruach, spirit, invisible power or influence.

E174
Exodus 15:11
Among the gods -- EI, mighty ones. E67; R296:2
Exodus 15:20
With dances -- With bodies swaying and feet moving rhythmically.

R5278:2
Exodus 15:22
They went three days -- Typifying the last part of the fifth, all of the
sixth, and the early part of the seventh thousand-year days, the period of
Israel's disfavor. R3037:5
Exodus 15:23
The waters of Marah -- Similarly the Law, while good in many

respects, had certain condemnatory qualities which hindered it from giving
refreshment and life everlasting. R4010:5
From the Arabic, marra, to be bitter. R351:2*, R491:2*
They were bitter -- The promise of life, represented by the water, was
poisoned by sin. R4010:6
The spiritual Israelite is not long out of Egypt before he is permitted to
have trying experiences; and in seeking refreshment he perhaps finds bitter
disappointments. R3035:6, R5278:5
During the Dark Ages the water of life became brackish and impure.
R4603:1
Exodus 15:24
Against Moses -- Typifying the Christ, Head and Body, the Mediator
of the New covenant. R4010:6
Exodus 15:25
And he -- Moses, type of Christ. D630; A79; B255

A tree -- Representing the cross of Christ. "Cursed is every one that
hangeth on a tree." (Gal. 3:13) R4010:6
The great doctrine of the ransom. R4603:1
Were made sweet -- Since the truth of the ransom has purified the
message of the Dark Ages we can partake of it with refreshment. R4603:1;
Q454:1
Typifying conditions during the Millennial age. F631
The Lord can make our bitter experiences sweet. R3035:6
Exodus 15:26
None of these diseases -- Not the case with the New Creation. Their
real interests and their physical interests are often opposites. F631
That healeth thee -- From the very beginning of Messiah's reign God's
blessings will begin to come to the world, and correspondingly the curse
will fade away. R5780:1
Exodus 15:27
They came to Elim -- The Lord provides seasons of rest and

refreshment by the Christian's way. R3035:6
God's spiritual Israelites are not tried above what they are able to bear.
R5278:6
Twelve wells of water -- Typifying the 12 apostles. R4011:2
Threescore and ten palms -- Typifying the 70 whom our Lord
commissioned, whose ministries typified the public services of the Gospel
age. R4011:2
Exodus 16
Exodus 16:1
Wilderness of Sin -- Typical of the Christian journey through the

wilderness of sin to the heavenly Canaan. A221
Exodus 16:3
The flesh pots -- The world's theories. R5307:1

Bread to the full -- How apt are all to remember the pleasures of the
sinful condition and to forget its burdens and disappointments. R3036:3
With hunger -- Having learned of their need they were able to
appreciate the provision and its miraculous source. So with spiritual
Israelites, they are permitted to feel their needs, and to ask, that they may
receive. R3036:1
Exodus 16:7
What are we -- Spiritual Israelites are to keep in mind that the real
leader is the Lord and not men. R3036:2
Exodus 16:13
Quails came up -- In the spring. They often come in great flocks and,
wearied with their long flight across the water, fly low, and thus are easily
caught. R4012:3, R3036:4
Corresponding to the invasion of Darwinism among God's people.
Evolution gives the people worldly doctrines for religious food. R5267:3*
Exodus 16:14
A small round thing -- Evidently deposited in, or from, the dew by

some power of God working in harmony with the natural laws of chemistry
not yet thoroughly understood. R3036:4
Exodus 16:15
It is manna -- Nothing of the kind was known to the Israelites, and they
asked, "What is it?" and this became its name--"What is it?"--or, "that
manna." R5279:4
A symbol of our Lord's flesh, the bread from heaven. B130; T122;
R2579:4
The grains were small and white, required painstaking labor to gather, and
had to be boiled or baked before using. R3036:4
Exodus 16:16
Gather of it -- To obtain the bread from heaven requires some effort on

the part of him who would partake. R3036:6, R5279:4
Exodus 16:21
Every morning -- So it will be necessary for the world ever to seek

supplies of life and grace if they would live everlastingly. T123
Our own supply of grace in Christ needs to be gathered daily; it will not
keep over for succeeding days. R4012:5
Exodus 16:23
To morrow is the rest -- That the Sabbath was something new to the
Israelites is evident by its explanation to them. R971:6
The holy sabbath -- Type of the Millennial age. B40
There was no mention of the keeping of a sabbath prior to Israel's arriving
at the Wilderness of Sin, of which Mt. Sinai is the center. R3039:2
Inaugurated as a memorial of their deliverance from Egyptian bondage, in
which they had no rest from their taskmasters. R1731:2
The Sabbath day was instituted about two weeks before the formal giving
of the Law. R1731:2
Exodus 16:31
Wafers made with honey -- Suggesting that the wafers on the Day of
Atonement may have had a mixture of honey; but the prohibition of the
burning of honey may imply otherwise. R4045:4
Exodus 16:33
To be kept -- Symbolizing that our Lord's flesh did not see corruption
and is possibly preserved as an everlasting testimony of infinite love and
perfect obedience. B130
Illustrating the immortal, incorruptible condition promised to all members
of the Church. "To him that overcometh will I grant to eat of the hidden
manna." (Rev. 2:17) T122
Exodus 16:34
To be kept -- In the Ark of the covenant. T121
Exodus 16:35
Forty years -- Just as at the first advent they rejected him who was the
antitype of Moses and Aaron and therefore did not enter into rest; instead,
another long and wearisome journey in the wilderness for nearly 1900
years. R3064:4
The land of Canaan -- Representing the Millennial Kingdom condition.
R3064:3
Representing the rest promised to God's children who hear his call: "Come
unto me, and I will give you rest." (Matt. 11:28) Have we the faith to enter
in? T25
Exodus 17
Exodus 17:6
Smite the rock -- The rock was a picture of Christ-who was smitten
that the water of life might flow from Jesus for all of Adam's race who
would become Israelites indeed. R5957:3, R5285:1; PD34/45
As the waters of that rock followed the Israelites, so God's favor, through
Christ, refreshes his people throughout their wilderness journey. R5285:2
Here by the Lord's direction. The second time (Num. 20:2-12) he was to
"speak to the rock," but instead he smote the rock a second time. R3077:3
Christ is smitten but once for our sins. If, for a reason, the waters stop,
the Rock should be invoked, in the name of the Lord, to start gushing anew.
R3077:4
Exodus 17:8
Came Amalek and fought -- As one branch of Esau's family, they were
related to the Israelites and to the Arabs of today. R4207:2
The Amalekites, a warlike people, considered the coming of Israel as an
invasion of their country and attacked them in battle. R5285:2
Similarly, spiritual Israelites have conflicts with the world, the flesh and
the devil. R5285:2
With Israel -- A people used to peaceful pursuits would naturally be at
a disadvantage in conflict with such opposition. R5285:2
Exodus 17:11
When Moses -- The antitypical Moses is the antitypical Mediator,

Christ. R2681:6
Held up in his hand -- In prayer to God for the people. R5285:2
Israel prevailed -- God thus indicated that Moses was the advocate of
Israel, and that without him they could do nothing. We, too, have an
advocate. R5285:2
In the antitype, spiritual Israelites have conflicts with enemies too mighty
for them without the Lord's assistance-the world, the flesh, and the devil.
R5285:2
Amalek prevailed -- When Moses ceased to pray the Amalekites were
the victors--showing our dependence on Christ. R5285:2
Exodus 17:13
And Joshua -- Type of the "great deliverer, " Christ. A79

Amalek -- Symbolizing the wilful sinners of the Millennial age. F174
Exodus 17:14
In a book -- The first definite information with reference to the Sacred

Writings, later preserved in the side of the Ark. (Deut. 31:25) R1145:3
Exodus 17:15
Jehovah-nissi -- Banner of Jehovah. E43
Exodus 18
Exodus 18:13
Moses sat to judge -- Showing that the word "judgment" includes the
thought of a trial and a righteous decision based upon that trial. R568:6
Exodus 18:18
Too heavy for thee -- Moses, instead of being a designing politician,

was really the overworked servant of the people. A47
Exodus 18:19
Give thee counsel -- Jethro's counsel became the basis of the English
and American constitutions, governments "of the people, by the people, for
the people." R3037:3
Exodus 18:24
So Moses hearkened -- God sometimes uses outsiders to instruct his

people in some things: wise is the man or woman humble enough to receive
such instruction properly. R3037:2
Exodus 18:25
Made them heads -- During nearly a year at Mt. Sinai, Israel was
transformed from a horde of unorganized emigrants into a powerful nation
with covenant relationship with God. R4037:1
Exodus 19
Exodus 19:5
If ye will -- Are you (Israel) ready now to enter into a covenant of full
consecration to do my will? R5285:4
Its commands had nothing to do with any nation but Israel, then or since;
nor are they applicable now to spiritual Israel. R4013:3
Obey my voice -- It was God's object in making the Law covenant to
prove to Israel their own imperfection and inability to live in harmony with
God. R282:3
Keep my covenant -- The measure of a perfect man's ability. QV428:6
If Israel should keep perfectly the Ten Commandments they would thereby
demonstrate that they were perfect men, worthy of everlasting life.
R5286:2, R4902:3, R5292:2, R5732:5
The Law covenant was an addition to the Abrahamic covenant and was
typical. R5301:5
The mediation (through Moses) of the old Law covenant brought Israel
into typical relationship to God; the mediation (through Christ) of the New
Law covenant will bring all mankind into actual covenant relationship.
R5292:2
The time not having come for the development of the great Mediator, God
made a typical arrangement with the nation of Israel. R4902:3
It is not the Law that was important, since God always had a law over his
creatures; but the covenant, according to which they were to be treated as
servants, not sinners, if faithful to its requirements. R1724:4
None actuated by love have any desire to violate the law of
commandments. R543:2
The Christian's responsibility is transferred from the Father to our Lord
Jesus. Hence he is no longer under Jehovah's Law given at Sinai, but now
"under law to Christ." (1 Cor. 9:21) R542:6
A peculiar treasure -- For more than 18 centuries God's dealings were
with this people exclusively. "Ye only have I known of all the families of
the earth." (Amos 3:2) Q792:4
Obedience would qualify them to be the seed of Abraham to bless the
world. R5732:5
Exodus 19:6
Kingdom of priests -- Type of the Royal Priesthood, the Holy Nation,

the Church. B246, CR485:1
God's favor to natural Israel was because they were the seed of Abraham;
not because they were holier than others. R5917:3
Israel was first invited to be the antitypical Royal Priesthood. R5532:6
Israel knew they were the favored seed of Abraham, the natural heirs of the
promises. R5285:4
An holy nation -- Separated from other nations for a particular purpose,
and therefore to enjoy certain special favors. A71
Exodus 19:8
All the people -- The entire nation was a consecrated people. R1742:6
All that -- Jesus explained it to mean to love God with all the heart,
mind, soul and strength, and one's neighbor as one's self. PD35/46
To do justice to your neighbor as you wish your neighbor to do justice to
you is the essence of the Law. (Matt. 7:12) SM352:2
We will do -- We agree to keep your Law and you agree to give us life.
R4696:2
The Law said, Obey! and he who fails in one point is guilty of all. R614:5
The faithful among them, who earnestly endeavored in their weakness to
keep this covenant, will, in the Millennial age, be "princes in all the
earth." (Psa. 45:16) B207
The Ten Commandments demand absolute perfection of thought and deed
for their fulfillment. R543:2
They saw only the outward aspect and not the spirit of the Law. R4013:2
It did not seem to occur to Israel that they might not be able to obey the
Law perfectly. R1724:5
God was bound to give Israel eternal life if they would keep that Law.
R4902:3
Alas for poor humanity's self-confidence; that which they thought would
gain life emphatically condemned all under it to death. R454:6
No fallen human being could possibly keep the letter of the Law, but God
dealt with the Israelites as though they could. Their sacrifices were
typical. OV428:6
It served them well as a servant to bring them to Christ. R1724:5
Exodus 19:10
Said unto Moses -- Type of Christ, Head and Body. R3037:5; D630
Unto the people -- All those of mankind desirous of entering covenant
relationship with God. R3037:5
Exodus 19:11
For the third day -- The three days of purification represent the Gospel
age. Our Lord's first advent occurred early on the fifth thousand-year day,
the sixth day has passed, and we are now in the morning of the seventh or
"Millennial" day. R3037:5
The New Law covenant will be made during the Millennial day-the Jewish
"day" and Gospel "day" being preparatory. R4570:3*
Upon mount Sinai -- Type of the Kingdom of God. R3037:6,
R4037:5; D630
Exodus 19:12
Shalt set bounds -- During the two thousand-year days just past, God,
through Christ, has been marking out the bounds of the Kingdom class:
who might and might not come into the Kingdom. R3037:6
Take heed -- "God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints,
and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him." (Psa. 89:7)
R2002:2
Touch the border -- Our God is a consuming fire to all who attempt to
approach him except through Christ. R2035:6
Surely put to death -- How can we escape if we disregard the voice of
the great Mediator of the New covenant, and the remarkable circumstances
which now accompany its establishment. R5990:4
Exodus 19:13
Whether it be beast -- The Hebrew used the word "hands" for beast as
well as for man. The Hebrew word for hand, yad, is rendered "paw" in
(1 Sam. 17:37). R3044:5
Exodus 19:15
Be ready -- Typifying still greater purifying of all who accept the New
covenant. R2022:5
Exodus 19:16
Thunders -- Only a typical representation of the greater glory of the

New-covenant--"the glory that excelleth." (2 Cor. 3:9, 10) R1404:6
Thunder tones of judgment that "call the earth from the rising of the sun
until the going down thereof." (Psa. 50:1) R5990:4, R1914:4
And lightnings -- Lightning flashes of truth and righteousness.
R1914:4, R5990:4
Frequent flashes of light from the storm clouds surrounding the invisible
presence of our King in the daily press illuminate the principles of the
Word of God. R1913:3
A thick cloud -- Symbol of the time of trouble. D630; R3037:5,
R5990:1, R1914:4
Voice of the trumpet -- Type of the Seventh Trumpet of liberty. D630;
B148
Exodus 19:1
To meet with God -- There was no priestly intervention. A55
Exodus 19:18
Smoke of a furnace -- Symbol of the time of trouble. D630; C146

Quaked greatly -- Typifying the fearful sights, terrifying sounds, in the
end of this age. D630; R5990:1
Not only the earth (society) and the mountains (kingdoms), but the heavens
also (ecclesiastical powers), so that only the unshakable principles of truth
and righteousness may endure. R1914:5
Exodus 19:20
And Moses -- Type of The Christ, Head and Body. D630; A79; B255
Went up -- Glorified. D630
So the entire Church must go into the mountain (Kingdom) with Christ.
OV286:2
Exodus 19:21
Many of them perish -- It is just as impossible for men to see the

unveiled qlory of the Lord Jesus as it is for them to behold Jehovah.
(Exod. 33:20; Heb. 1:3) B131
Exodus 19:25
Spake unto them -The Reformers recognized the difference between

Moses as a prophet and as a law-giver; maintaining that as law-giver his
authority extended only over Israel. R976:2
Exodus 20
Exodus 20:1
God spake all these words -- The first tables of the Law were prepared
and written by the Lord himself. This represents how man in his creation
was a perfect image of his Creator. R5298:6
God's original law to man was given in Eden, written in Adam's heart, in
the sense that he was created in the divine image. R5286:3
The Decalogue has a depth of meaning not seen until Jesus "magnified the
law and made it honorable." (Isa. 42:21) R5286:2
Jesus gave the Law to Moses as the representative of the Father. R5622:5
The Law given at Sinai has been the basis of all laws since. SM380:T
Exodus 20:2
Which have brought thee -- Showing that the Ten Commandments

were given only to Israel after the flesh. R1726:5, R971:4
Exodus 20:3
Thou shalt -- The Decalogue is a brief synopsis of the whole Law. A45
Neither the angelic sons nor the New Creation are under the Sinaitic Law,
or need it. F365
No other gods before me -- Mighty ones, my equals. E40
God shall have first place in the human heart. Any division of the heart or
strength or mind or soul violates this commandment. R5286:3
We shall not permit wealth or anything else to take away our minds from
the Lord. R5094:5
Idolizing husbands, wives or wealth is idolatry. R5071:5, R4014:4
Exodus 20:4
Any graven image -- God would not have any symbols before his
people, but have them worship him in spirit and in truth. R5627:3,
R3038:2, R5298:1
With spiritual Israel even fathers, mothers, wives and children might take
the place of the Lord in our affections, as well as idols of wealth, social
and personal ambition, etc. R3038:2, R3753:3
Under the earth -- Not subterranean waters, but the seas which are
below the level of the "dry land" called the earth. R1813:2
Exodus 20:5
Bow down thyself to them-Shaw-kaw, worship. Not a prohibition of

reverence to the honorable, but against image worship or worship of any
rival gods. E73
The Jews did not err in doing reverence (shaw-kaw) to angels who came in
Jehovah's name. B73
Am a jealous God -- Who wants all of our affections, confidence and
trust. This is for our good and is not selfishness on his part. R3038:3,
R4789:2
God's jealousy is just and is sure to bring to the sinner a just punishment.
R4789:2
The impropriety of jealousy is when it leads to bitterness and other like
qualities to which the fallen human mind is subject. R4789:2
Upon the children -- Does not represent anger, bitterness, resentment,
selfishness, but the law of nature, under which, in wisdom, God has placed
humanity. R3038:3-4
The doctrine of the ransom is linked to the doctrine that condemnation
passed to Adam's posterity through the channel of natural birth. R2668:2
Unto the third and fourth -- Contrary to Darwin, deviations from the
species prototype are corrected in the course of three generations--N. Y
Times. R4859:6*
Exodus 20:7
Not take the name -- This command was given to Israel only, who had
come into relationship with God through the Law covenant. Many of the
Jews tried very hard outwardly to keep the Ten Commandments. R5404:2
Although this commandment was not given to spiritual Israel, the spirit of
it applies to us. Let us, therefore, walk circumspectly, that we bring no
dishonor to that hallowed name, but honor it in our every thought and deed.
R5404:6, R4014:5, R3038:5, R1527:6
In vain -- Lightly, frivolously, or in any other than a sacred or
reverential manner. R3038:5, R1527:3
"Thou desirest truth in the inward parts." (Psa. 51:6) "Let every one that
nameth the name of Christ (Jehovah's representative) depart from iniquity."
(2 Tim. 2:19) R1527:3
Exodus 20:8
The sabbath day - The fourth commandment was never given to the
Church. R5072:1
A higher thought than that of physical rest is given to the Church. The
seventh day typifies the rest of faith for the people of God. R5071:6,
R5360:1, R4015:1, R1499:4
Typically, the thousand-year day, the Millennial age. Then humanity will
be at rest from Satan and from sin. R5071:6, R5640:5, R1499:4,
R91:6*; B40; Q607:4
We should neither consider ourselves under Mosaic Law nor repudiate the
Sabbath entirely. R3752:2
Spiritual Israel keeps Sabbath every day-resting in the finished work of
God, resting from our own endeavors to justify ourselves. R3753:4
Let our homes be the most quiet, let no sound of labor or worldly pleasure
be heard on the appointed day of rest. R3753:6
Keep it holy -- As a day of rest, and no more. R4995:3
Whoever abides in Christ is a sabbath-keeper. R5071:6
Exodus 20:10
The seventh day -- Not the first day. If this commandment is binding
at all it is binding as stated and cannot be changed. R1727:2
The prominence of the seventh day holds good in the week of creation, the
ordinary week and the week of thousands. R91:5*
No matter how the first day of the week, Sunday, was originally set apart as
sacred, it contains a great blessing. R2534:5, R2535:1
We advocate observance of Sunday because: (1) we would not wish to see
it fall into disuse; (2) we would not lead others to violate less-enlightened
consciences; and (3) to maintain proper religious influence with neighbors.
R2535:4, R3753:5
Typified a coming blessing to spiritual Israel. OV250:5
The Christian's rest is not of one day, but of all; well-illustrated in the
seventh day which typified it, for seven is the symbol of completeness.
R543:6
Not do any work -- It does not say to cease from ordinary work and
engage in religious work; but prohibits all kinds of work. R1727:1,
R971:5
As soon as we begin to believe we begin to enter into this rest which need
never end. "We which have believed do enter into rest." (Heb. 4:3)
R3753:4
This rest was merely typical and prophetic of the coming restitution peace
and blessing. OV118:3
Our rest in the Lord is as complete as is our belief in him. He who believes
fully, rests fully; he who only believes partially, rests but partially.
R2534:4
While never losing sight of his real sabbaths, the spiritual Israelite
nevertheless should avail himself of any arrangements of nominal
Christendom favorable to his spiritual resting. R2534:5
While chiefly a type, experience proves that such a rest is necessary from
the physical standpoint. R2534:6
Exodus 20:11
The LORD made -- Not creation but preparation for use. R300:1*
Rested the seventh day -- Letting humanity measurably take its own
course in sin, leaving all the work of restitution to be accomplished by
Christ in his reign. R975:4
Because in his plan everything was fully arranged for--"the works were
finished from the foundation of the world." (Heb. 4:3) R975:4
But it does not follow that God's rest day was a 24-hour day, nor that he
rested in the same sense as the Israelites were commanded. R1731:3
Jesus said, "The Father worketh hitherto, and (now) I work." (John 5:17)
R975:4
A higher thought than that of physical rest is given the Church. The
seventh day typifies the rest of faith for the people of God. R5071:6,
R5360:1, R4015:1
Blessed the sabbath day -- Type of the greater sabbath-the heavenly.
Q759:3
Exodus 20:12
Honour thy father-Although always deserving of consideration from

their children, the degree of respect must depend upon the character of the
parent to some extent. R5287:3
The parents are, in the divine arrangement, the priests of God in respect to
their children. R5287:5
Sunday Schools may weaken the respect of the children for the parents and
may release the parents from an appreciation of their responsibilities
toward their children. R5287:5
Extending beyond the childhood obligation to obey, the duty of honoring
parents extends from the cradle to the grave. R2024:3
Absalom is a distinguished example of dishonor to a father, and the
resultant cuffing off in the prime of life. R3262:1
If our forefathers were monkeys, as so many now teach, why should we
have much honor or respect for them? R4019:3
To the spiritual Israelite, this would mean our Father in heaven. R4019:3,
R3044:6
And thy mother -- Showing that man and woman are joint-inheritors of
the earthly dominion. R1553:6
To the spiritual Israelite, this would mean God's original covenant with
Abraham, typified by Sarah. R4019:5, R3044:6
Long upon the land -- Children obedient to parents are more inclined to
obedience to country and Creator. Such obedience would be favorable to
old age. R3044:6
The fact that the Jews did not dwell long in the land given them is evidence
that they did not keep this commandment properly. R3044.6
Exodus 20:13
Thou shalt not kill -- Any malice, hatred or anger is of the murder
spirit. R4019:6, R5286:3
We are not to have an angry spirit of murder, restrained merely by fear of
consequences. R5287:6
Life is to be prized, not jeopardized. R5287:6
Nothing in this commandment forbids the killing of animals when
necessary, nor the execution of criminals. R5287:6, R4019:5, R3045:1
Murder is always wrong; killing is sometimes right, sometimes duty; but
the destruction of birds, beasts and fishes wantonly, or for sport, is wrong.
R3045:1
To take another's life is wrong, except when God's own Law demands it.
SM352:1
Exodus 20:14
Not commit adultery -- "Whosoever looketh upon a woman to lust

after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. (Matt.
5:28) In other words,the spirit of God's Law is that to desire to do wrong
and to be merely hindered by circumstances and conditions, is in God's
sight as serious, as criminal, as to have really done that wrong. R4020:4,
R5286:3
Purity, no adulteration, is the divine requirement. R5288:1
As the Lord's betrothed, the Church is to be uncontaminated,
unadulterated, separate from the world. R3045:3
Exodus 20:15
Thou shalt not steal -- A proper recognition of the property and rights
of others, covering every form of theft, both public and private. R4020:4
Applies to defrauding another in any manner, depriving him of rights,
liberties, or a good name, as well as of money or property. R3045:3
Including untruthful advertisements, misleading information, or
misrepresentation. R3045:4
Includes making false tax returns, avoiding payment of customs duty and
failure to give agreed upon services to employers. R5288:1
The worst form of stealing concerns the Scriptural instruction, "speak evil
of no man. (Titus 3:2) R5288:1
To do so is wrong, unjust. SM352:1
Exodus 20:16
Bear false witness -- Even by a nod of the head, the shrugging of the
shoulder, or by silence. R3045:5
The spirit of this injunction may be violated, and is violated every day not
only by misrepresenting the goods we sell, or the goods we wish to buy,
but in a thousand ways of slandering a neighbor. R5288:4
To do so would be an injustice. SM352:1
Exodus 20:17
Shalt not covet -- Covetousness is a heart disease which has to do with

every other crime; for all sins have their basis in selfishness. R5288:4
Covetousness is an enviousness of the possessions of others and a desire to
appropriate them for ourselves. R4021:4
Covetousness is like drinking the salt waters of the sea, which only
increase the thirst. R2340:6
Covetousness first led Satan to disloyalty and sin. R3046:1
Not a desire to prosper as well as one's neighbor, but to possess the
possession of our neighbor. R2340:1
The climax of all commandments respecting our relationship to our fellow-man.
R4021:4
"Godliness with contentment (absence of covetousness) is great gain." (1
Tim. 6:6) R3046:1
Covetousness is wholly foreign to the spirit of Christ. To the extent that
the spirit of Christ dwells in his members they will be free from it. R971:3,
R1726:4
Only one covetousness is encouraged--"Covet earnestly the best gifts (1
Cor 12:31)--the gifts of divine grace which robs not others, does not make
God poorer. R2340 6
Exodus 20:18
Noise of the trumpet -- Type of the seventh trumpet. D630
Exodus 20:19
Said unto Moses -- The typical Mediator between God and Israel.
R4537:1, R2858:6
Representing Jesus, the Mediator "between God and man," the world.
R4537:4; A79; B255; D630
Moses undertook to bless Israel by mediating for them with God the Law
covenant, but failed because they were unable to keep the Law of God
perfectly. R4537:1
Lest we die -- Because we cannot stand even a reflection of the spiritual
glory of the Lord. B131
Exodus 20:21
Where God was -- All of this was typical. R5294:3
Exodus 20:22
The children of Israel -- Who typified the world of mankind. R4537:1
Exodus 20:24
Peace-offerings -- Type of entire consecration to God during the next

age. T98
Exodus 20:26
Go up by steps -- We cannot come to Christ by steps. We must come

as we are and come at once. R101:5*
Nakedness be not discovered -- When we try to break off old habits
and be good by ourselves climbing up a few steps and coming to Christ-the
shame of our nakedness appears. R101:5*
Exodus 21
Exodus 21:4
And her children -- The mother's nature, rights, privileges and liberties
attached to the child. E105; R777:5
Exodus 21:6
Unto the Judges -- Elohim, rulers, mighty ones. A name applied to

Jehovah as well as to men. E68; R1410:3; SM497:2
For ever -- "Forever" ceased at the cross. It means, until a proper end
has been reached. R1453:6
Exodus 21:12
Be surely put to death -- A just retribution for the sin. R5645:4
Exodus 21:13
Whither he shall flee -- Arriving at the city of refuge, the culprit was
not free, but must stand trial before the elders of the city. R3092:5
Exodus 21:14
With guile -- Inquiry was made as to whether he had lain in wait,

hunted for his victim, smote him in secret, for maliciousness, guile, prior
enmity and hatred. (Deut. 19:4, 6, 11; Deut 27:24; Num. 35:11-23; Josh.
20:5) R3092:5
Exodus 21:23
Life for life - This was the basis of justice on which God was operating.
R4426:1, R1917:1
God arranged that only one man should have the opportunity to fall and be
sentenced to death; thus only one man would be required as a Redeemer of
all humanity. R5429:6
A perfect human life having been condemned to death, it required a perfect
human life to redeem it. Jesus "tasted death for every man." (Heb. 2:9)
R4964:4, R1917:4; OV151:5
An illustration of the word "ransom." Q562:6
If a thousand perfect men had sinned, it would have required a thousand
perfect men to redeem them. R5429:6; SM661:1
The blood (death) of bulls and of goats could never take away sin; likewise
the death of angels or archangels could never take away sin (redeem man).
R3174:5, R4426:2, R5429:6
The Philistines had caused the loss of many lives in Israel. Thus it was in
full accord with divine instruction that they and other occupants of Canaan
be utterly destroyed. R5663:5
Exodus 21:24
Eye for eye -- This line of strict justice the Lord inculcated in the Law
given to Israel to assist them in understanding the great principle of Justice
underlying divine conduct. OV21:4; Q798:4
Strong characters may wish to correct that which is wrong, but it is not the
time now to judge and discipline the world. R5644:5
Exodus 21:26
For his eye's sake -- The common Law was no respecter of persons.
There was no special legislation for the priesthood. A52
Exodus 22
Exodus 22:8
Unto the judges -- Elohim, rulers, mighty ones. A name applied to

Jehovah as well as to men. E68; R1410:3
Exodus 22:9
Before the judges -- Elohim, rulers, mighty ones. E68; R1410:3

Exodus 22:18
Not suffer a witch -- A medium, or mouthpiece of fallen angels.

R2172:1; Q840:T
Spirit mediums, clairvoyants and the like are the modern wizards and
witches. Q840:T
It is not superstitious to believe that men and women may be so given over
to Satan, and be so controlled by him as to be wizards and witches.
R265:4
Witchcraft was instituted by Satan to prove his lie that the dead are not
dead. R1216:2
Some of God's people today, notwithstanding this instruction, have
attended Spiritualistic seances "just to see how it was done." R3240:5
Exodus 22:21
Vex a stranger -- The laws protected the weak, the stranger, the
servant. OV10:5
Exodus 22:22
Widow, or fatherless child -- The Lord's special care is over the weak,
helpless and bereaved ones. Q781:4
Exodus 22:25
That is poor -- The Mosaic Law was far ahead of its time. A50
Exodus 22:28
Not revile the gods -- Elohim, rulers, mighty ones. E68; R1410:3
Nor curse the ruler -- The tendency to speak evil of dignitaries, to
belittle and caricature them, is a prevalent sin and does much to undermine
good government. R5952:5
Exodus 23
Exodus 23:2
Not follow a multitude -- The difficulty is that the whole world is

running on the depraved basis of selfishiness which is quite incongruous to
love. D525; R2033:1
Exodus 23:4
Thine enemy's ox -- If such love was obligatory upon natural Israel, to

what degree should spiritual Israel possess and manifest it. R5643:6
The Mosaic Law was far ahead of its time. A50
Exodus 23:7
Justify the wicked -- But he has provided a way in which he can be

just, and yet justify. (Rom. 3:26) HG308:2
Exodus 23:9
Oppress a stranger -- The treatment of servants, strangers and the

aged was the subject of special legislation, but there was none for the
priesthood. A52
Exodus 23:11
The seventh year- Israel's year Sabbath typified a coming blessing to

the world. OV250:5
Exodus 23:12
Thou shalt rest -- The Mosaic Law was far ahead of its time. A50
Exodus 23:16
Feast of ingathering -- The Feast of Tabernacles. R3509:1

The festival of the New Year and a thanksgiving occasion for the harvest.
R3509:1
Instituted at the time Israel passed from the wilderness into the land of
promise, commemorating the wilderness life and the entrance into Canaan.
R3509:1
In the end of the year -- There were two harvests: the first, of grain, in
the spring, representing "Christ, and they that are Christ's at his coming";
(1 Cor. 15:23) the other, or great harvest, was at the end of the year.
HG83:1
Exodus 23:18
With leavened bread -- Leaven is corruption, an element of decay,

hence a type of sin. R5192:4; F464; T98
Shall the fat -- Symbol of loving zeal. T57
Exodus 23:23
Cut them off -- A depraved race, whose sins and iniquities had come to
the full. Q779:5
Exodus 24
Exodus 24:1
Seventy of the elders -- Supposedly the original Sanhedrin. R4037:2,

R3346:3
Similarly, the 70 whom the Lord sent forth represented all the leaders or
elders amongst his people today. R3346:3
Exodus 24:2
And Moses alone -- Moses was the Mediator of the Law covenant.
Christ became the heir of its promises of life and the (head of) the Mediator
of the New covenant. R1725:4
God dealt with only one man in making the Law covenant. Moses stood in
the position of a father, the nation being treated as children under age.
R5046:4
Moses is Mediator of the Law covenant as long as it is in effect. Moses is
Mediator of the Law covenant today. Q498:3
Exodus 24:3
Moses came and told -- For a period of 1000 years, this Mediator will
do a work for mankind. R5292:3
Exodus 24:5
Burnt offerings, and -- The blood of peace-offerings and burnt-offerings

sealed the Law covenant, picturing the Church sacrificing earthly rights,
and that God accepts these sacrifices as sealing the New covenant-entirely
aside from the Atonement for Adamic sin accomplished by the same sacrifices,
viewed from the standpoint of the sin-offering. R4389:6
Peace-offerings are a type of entire consecration to God during the next
age. T98
More than one bullock and goat because of the multitude of the people to
be sprinkled. In reality, one bullock and one goat duplicated as often as
necessary to provide a sufficiency of blood. R2874:5; CR485:5
Exodus 24:6
And Moses took -- Representing a greater than Moses, Jesus and his
Church. Q29:4
Sprinkled on the altar -- Representing the satisfaction of justice.
R5162:6
In the antitype, our Lord's blood was first applied on our behalf. R4513:6
Exodus 24:7
The covenant -- Representing the better covenant. Q29:4

God agreed that if Israel would keep his Law they would have everlasting
life. R5292:2
Exodus 24:8
Took the blood -- Representing man's acceptance of the divine

arrangement. R5342:6
The sprinkling of the books of the Law took only a few seconds; sprinkling
the people took a long time. R5342:6
On the people -- Sprinkled from all sympathy with evil, mankind will
make their declaration of full loyalty to God. R5164:2
Probably not on the two millions, but upon representatives of the whole,
the heads or chiefs of the tribes. R3046:2
Bringing them under the obligation of the Law covenant. R5000:1,
R5162:6
So The Christ, during the Millennium, will sprinkle the world of mankind,
bringing them into harmony with the divine law. It will require the
thousand years. R5421:5; CR485:5
The sprinkling with the blood represents justification. R5421:5
The Mediator will antitypically sprinkle the people; that is, he will show
them how to come back into full accord with God. R5164:2
In antitype, the blood sprinkling the whole world means restitution.
R5878:4
When the Church shall have finished using the blood that same merit will
be applied "for all the people," sealing the New covenant. R4513:6
Of the covenant -- A covenant does not go into operation until after it
has been fully mediated. R5164:1
Which the LORD hath made -- To last for centuries, but only one year
at a time; renewed by the annual Day of Atonement sacrifices. R5162:6
Exodus 24:10
Saw the God of Israel -- That is, the Lord's special messenger, the
angel of the Lord. Q360:2
Exodus 24:12
Which I have written -- Moses thus attributes the origin of the Mosaic
Law to God, not to himself. A53
Exodus 24:16
Cloud covered it -- Similarly, the Church is generally enveloped in

clouds of trouble which hide the glory from others. By and by her glory
shall be manifested without the enveloping cloud. R1982:2
Exodus 25
Exodus 25:3
Gold -- Representing the divine nature. T18

And silver -- Symbol of truth. T114
And brass -- Copper, symbol of perfect human nature. T18
Exodus 25:4
And blue -- Symbol of faithfulness. T30

And purple -- Symbol of royalty. T34
And scarlet -- Symbol of the blood of the ransom. T34, T109
And fine linen -- Symbol of righteousness. T29, T30, T36
Exodus 25:5
And badgers' skins -- As God covered the Tabernacle with unsightly

skins, so the glory and beauties of spiritual things are seen only by the
"Royal Priesthood." T127
Exodus 25:6
Anointing oil -- Symbol of the holy Spirit. T29, T37, T116; D650;
R5654:5
Exodus 25:7
Stones to be set -- The Lord's jewels, his "Little Flock." T36

In the ephod -- Type of the Abrahamic covenant (front part), and the
New covenant (back part). T30
In the breastplate -- Type of the Law. T34
Exodus 25:9
Tabernacle -- The lessons of the Tabernacle represent both progress

and completion. R4579:1
Exodus 25:10
Shall make an ark -- It represented the eternal purpose of God for

mankind in The Christ, Head and Body. T121
Wood was used as a base to make the articles more easily portable. T18
Representing Christ, in whom are hidden all the wisdom and power of
God. R5680:5
Tradition says that the Jewish high priests took the ark and other temple
treasures to Abyssinia for safe keeping at the time of the captivity and that
they will be found in the monastery islands of Lake Zonai. R3450:5
Of shittim wood -- Wood not typical, used merely for lightness.
R1236:6
Exodus 25:11
With pure gold -- Representing the divine nature. T18

The fact that all things in the Tabernacle were made of gold implies that it
represented the condition of such only as are called to the divine nature.
T20
Exodus 25:16
The testimony -- To show that Christ would meet in full all the
requirements of God's perfect Law and also that legal authority would be
vested in him as the Law-executor. T121
Exodus 25:17
Make a mercy seat -- Representing the underlying principle of

Jehovah's character-justice. T124
Representing the chariot or throne. R529:6*
Exodus 25:18
Make two cherubims -- Representing love and power. T125

They are always connected with the immediate presence, or with the
throne, of God. R529:6*
Exodus 25:20
Toward the mercy seat -- Neither love nor power can be exercised
until justice is fully satisfied; hence they look inward toward justice to
know when to move. T125
Exodus 25:23
Also make a table -- Representing the Church as a whole, holding forth

the word of life. T115
Exodus 25:30
Shewbread -- Representing the truth, the word of life. T22, T115

Spiritual food. R5418:5, R5621:6
Only for the priests to eat. Granted to the fully consecrated that by these
they might be strengthened to carry out fully their consecration unto death.
R4782:4
Exodus 25:31
Make a candlestick -- Representing the entire Church, the true

light-bearers. T116; R243:3*
Representing the light of God's truth. R5621:6, R5418:5
Had seven branches, typifying perfection or completeness. R243:3*
No dimensions given. Truth, like its author, is boundless. R243:3*
We may gain an accurate conception of its appearance from the Arch of
Titus in Rome. R3650:6
It was the light in the Holy, as the Shekinah glory was the light in the Most
Holy. R3650:5
Does not represent the Church in the future state of glory giving light to the
world; that will be as the "Sun of righteousness." (Mal. 4:2) R3650:6
Same as that in Zech. 4:2 and Rev. 1:20, showing all the true saints in the
various phases of nominal church development. R1491:1
In Revelation the same candlestick is brought to our attention, but the parts
are separated, the union being supplied by the antitypical High Priest.
R3569:4
Of beaten work -- Not cast wholesale in a mold. As is the shaft, so are
the branches-all of beaten work. R243:4*
Exodus 25:33
Like unto almonds -- In the almond tree fruit buds appear before
leaves. So with the Royal Priesthood, they begin to sacrifice, to bring forth
fruit, before the leaves of profession are seen. T121
The Hebrew word for "almond" is from a root meaning "to hasten."
Regarded by the Jews as a harbinger of spring. Remarkable for early
blossoming (even in January) and flowers appearing before the leaves.
R244:1*
A knop and a flower -- Representing the true Church as both beautiful
and fruitful from first to last. T116
In continuous succession, typifying the beautiful graces of a Christian
spirit accompanying the solid fruits of Christian life-faith and works.
R243:5*
A vigorous ever-developing plant, always blooming, continually
fruit-bearing; like the trees by the river of life, yielding fruit
every month. R243:5*
Exodus 25:37
Light -- One of the most powerful forces in nature; one of the most
quiet: it is peculiarly expressive of the character of God and his people.
R243:2*
Exodus 25:40
After their pattern -- Because it illustrated something greater and more

important to come afterward. T12
Exodus 26
Exodus 26:1
With ten curtains -- Evidently forming the ceiling, and hanging down
each side within the Tabernacle. R100:2*
Fine twined linen -- Symbol of righteousness. T29, T30, T36
With cherubims -- Symbol of divine love and power. T125
Exodus 26:6
Taches of gold -- Representing the divine nature. T18, T20
Exodus 26:11
Taches of brass -- Copper, symbol of perfect human nature. T18

Exodus 26:14
Of badgers' skins -- As God covered the Tabernacle with unsightly

skins, so the glories and beauties of spiritual things are seen only by the
"Royal Priesthood." T127
Exodus 26:19
Of silver -- Symbol of truth. T114
Exodus 26:29
Boards with gold -- Showing that all within the Holy and Most Holy
pertain to the divine nature. R1944:1
Exodus 26:30
Which was shewed thee -- Moses thus attributes the origin of the
Mosaic Law to God, not to himself. A54
Exodus 26:31
Shalt make a veil -- The passing of the second veil represented the
death of the human body. T21
Of blue -- Symbol of faithfulness. T30
Exodus 26:32
Shall be of gold -- Representing the divine nature. T18, T20

Sockets of silver -- Reality, truth, verity; seeming to say that inside this
veil you will be perfect, really and truly New Creatures. T115
Exodus 26:33
The ark -- It represented the eternal purpose of God for mankind in The
Christ, Head and Body. T121
The holy -- Representing the condition of all those who as justified
believers have consecrated to death. T19
Only the priests will be in the Holy. Only the Levites will be in the Court.
The Great Company is represented by "silver" in contradistinction to the
Church, who are represented in the gold of the Holy and Most Holy.
R4745:6
Corresponds to Plane M on the Chart of the Ages. R276:5; A244
Place -- Omit this word; not in the Hebrew text. T13
And the most holy -- The condition of the overcomers who attain to the
divine nature. T19
Corresponds to Plane L on the Chart of the Ages. R276:4; A244
Exodus 26:34
Put the mercy seat -- The Mercy Seat, glory-light and cherubim
together represented Jehovah God. T123
Both a mercy-seat and a justice-seat. R641:1
Upon the ark -- "The head of Christ is God." (1 Cor. 11:3) T124
Exodus 26:35
Shalt set the table -- Representing the Church as a whole, holding forth
the word of life. T115; R5418:5
And the candlestick -- Representing the entire Church, the true
lightbearers. T116
Exodus 26:36
Hanging for the door -- Symbol of the death of the human will. T21
Exodus 26:37
Five pillars -- The door posts at the entrance to the Tabernacle

represented the "New Creatures in Christ"-the consecrated saints. The
difference between these and the posts in the "Court" represents the
difference between the condition of the justified believers and the sanctified
believers. T114
Sockets of brass -- Copper, representing our justified humanity;
showing that while in the first apartment of the Tabernacle we have this
treasure in earthen vessels. T114
Exodus 27
Exodus 27:1
Shalt make an altar -- Representing Christ's ransom sacrifice. T22

Five cubits long and five -- Being square, it typified the perfection of
Christ. R101:1*
Three cubits -- Comparatively low, typifying one who is easy of access,
and a free salvation. R101:1
Exodus 27:2
Make the horns -- Symbols of power. T42

Pointing to Christ as our refuge and his abundance of power and grace to
all. R101:1*
Upon the four corners -- In every direction; so God's power to all men
is unlimited. R96:1
Overlay it with brass -- Copper, symbol of perfect human nature. T18
Exodus 27:9
Make the court -- Representing the condition of justification. T19

Representing the justified condition. In proportion as those in the Court
advance toward the Ho1y, in that proportion they draw nigh to God and
experience a measure of justification or harmony with God, leading to
complete justification. R4745:3
In the present time the Court represents the condition of divine favor of all
those who, exercising faith in God, are approaching nearer and nearer to
him. R4922:5, R5418:3
The picture changes at the end of this age: those who have not made a full
consecration go out and cease to be represented in the Court. The Great
Company is represented by the Court condition thereafter. R4876:4,
R4579:1-3
Only the Levites will be in the Court. In the last analysis the Court
represents the spirit-begotten ones separated from the world. R4745:6
Corresponds to Plane N on the Chart of the Ages. R276:5; A244
Hangings for the court -- Representing, to those within, a wall of faith;
but to those without, a wall of unbelief, which hindered their view of, and
access to, the holy things within. T18
Apparently without seam, symbolizing the righteousness of Christ.
R100:3*
Fine twined linen -- Representing Christ's righteousness. T36, T114
Exodus 27:10
The twenty pillars -- Representing justified believers. T113

Sockets shall be of brass -- Copper, representing that, though actually
imperfect, the standing of the justified believer is that of a perfect human
being. T113
Hooks ... of silver -- Silver being a symbol of truth, justified believers
(pillars) can truthfully claim that Christ's righteousness (the linen curtain)
covers all their imperfections. T114
Truth is the hook, or connection, which binds the Church to the curtain of
linen and, by it, to each other. R100:5*
As we are told to search for truth as for silver (Prov. 2:4); and as David
likens the words of the Lord to silver (Psa. 12:5); we conclude that truth is
symbolized by silver. R100:5*
The Great Company class was represented by the "silver." R4745:6
Exodus 27:16
And for the gate -- "I am the way" (John 14:6), "I am the door" (John
10:9). There is only one way of access to God. T18
The way out of unbelief and sin. T22
Of blue -- "True blue" is the symbol for a faithful one. Blue in
countries' flags stands for fidelity. In (Num. 15:37-41) a blue fringe on
Israel's garments was to recall faithfulness. R100:6*
And purple -- In (Judges 8:26) we find that the kings of Midian were
robed in this color. R100:6*
Exodus 27:18
Height five cubits -- The posts were five cubits high and five cubits
apart; standing, as it were, within reach of one another, yet too far apart to
lean upon one another. R100:3*
Exodus 27:20
Pure oil olive -- Symbolic of the holy Spirit. T29, T37, T116; D650
For the light -- Representing the spirit of truth. T116
Exodus 27:21
Aaron -- Representing our High Priest, Christ. T36, T116; E449

And his sons -- Who succeeded him in office. T116
Exodus 28
Exodus 28:1
His sons with him -- There were 8,580 Levites, but only five priests
sacrificing, which may illustrate the proportion of justified believers to
self-sacrificing consecrated ones. T118, R443:1
After the establishment of the Kingdom the distinction between the Church
and the larger company ot Levites will be perpetual. R5418:5
Exodus 28:2
Make holy garments -- Symbolizing the heavenly grandeur, honors and

glories of the Messiah during his reign. OV127:5
Clad in his robes of glory, the High Priest represented
Messiah blessing mankind. PD36/47
Exodus 28:3
Spirit of wisdom -- Fecundating their minds, energizing natural

faculties without affecting them in any moral sense. E175
Exodus 28:4
A breastplate -- Type of the Law. T34

And an ephod -- Type of the Abrahamic covenant (front part) and the
And a robe -- Of blue, representing Christ's faithfulness. T30
A broidered coat -- Of white linen, representing the High Priest's
purity. It's embroidery showed works of grace. T29
A mitre -- Of white linen (righteousness), to which the golden plate, or
crown, (royalty) was fastened. T29
And a girdle -- Indicating a righteous servant. T30
Make holy garments -- Symbolizing the heavenly grandeur, honors and
glories of Messiah during his reign. OV127:5
Clad in his robes of glory, the High Priest represented Messiah blessing
mankind. PD36/47
Exodus 28:5
Shall take gold -- Representing the divine nature. T18, T20

Exodus 28:6
Make the ephod -- Type of the Abrahamic covenant (front part) and the
Of gold -- Representing divine power. T34
Of blue -- Representing the ability faithfully to maintain his righteous
character. T34
And of purple -- Proclaims the royal power of the Kingdom
cooperating. T34
Of scarlet -- Representing redemption from the Adamic curse through
the blood of the ransom. T34
Fine twined linen -- Indicating the restoration of man to his original
purity. T34
Exodus 28:7
Two shoulder pieces -- Golden clasps, representing divine power to

enable Christ to carry out the terms of both covenants. T30
Exodus 28:8
The curious girdle -- Representing a servant. "The messenger

(servant) of the covenant whom ye delight in." (Mal. 3:1) T33
A servant of a "curious" or peculiar kind. R72:3
Exodus 28:15
The breastplate -- Type of the Law. T34
Exodus 28:16
Being doubled -- Representing the spirit and the letter of the Law. The
front part, which bore the jewels, representing the spirit of the Law,
fulfilled in us "who walk not after the flesh, but after the spirit." (Rom.
8:4) The back part representing the Law in letter as presented to fleshly
Israel. T35; R72:4
Representing the Jewish and Gospel ages. R72:5
A span -- Indicating that the Law of God is the full measure of a perfect
man's ability. T35; R72:5
Exodus 28:21
And the stones -- Representing the true Israel, the "Little Flock." "They
shall be mine, saith the Lord of Hosts, in that day when I make up my
jewels." (Mal. 3:17) T36
Exodus 28:22
Work of pure gold -- Indicating that the Law is divine and that we are
upheld by the golden chain of divine promises. T36
Exodus 28:27
The ephod underneath -- As the Israelite regarded them, not seeing the
hidden connection, the Abrahamic covenant and the Law were all one. T34
Exodus 28:29
Upon his heart -- Showing the Law as a covering for his innermost
affections. R72:4
"The Law of his God is in his heart." (Psa. 37:31) R72:4
Continually -- That is, all through the year, except on the Atonement
Day. R160:6*
Exodus 28:30
Urim and the Thummim -- Hard cases of judgment were, after Moses'
death, brought directly to the Lord through the High Priest, the answer
being Yes or No by the Urim and Thummim. A49
Working in some unknown way with the stones of the breastplate.
R5042:4; Q697:2
Perhaps by particular stones on the breastplate shining with special
brilliancy; perhaps light being Yes, and dark No; nothing definite.
Q728:2
Upon Aaron's heart -- Indicating that it was precious to him. That
which condemned all imperfection was Christ's pleasure--" I delight to do
thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart." (Psa. 40:8) T35
Exodus 28:31
Of blue -- Symbol of Christ's faithfulness. T30
Exodus 28:33
Shalt make pomegranates -- Representing that the faithful

performance of the Redeemer's work of sacrifice has borne rich fruits. T30
And bells of gold -- Signifying that when our High Priest appears in
glory the fruit of his sacrificial work will be proclaimed to all. T30
Exodus 28:36
Plate of pure gold -- A crown proclaiming his royalty. Christ is to be

"a priest upon his throne." (Zech. 6:13) T29
HOLINESS TO THE LORD -- Thus proclaiming Christ's entire
devotion to the accomplishment of Jehovah's purposes. T30
Exodus 28:37
On a blue lace -- Showing that the crown was rightfully his. T29
Exodus 28:39
Thou shalt embroider -- The white linen coat represented Christ's

purity, while its embroidery showed works of grace. T29
Make the mitre -- White linen (righteousness), to which the golden
plate or crown of royalty was fastened. T29
Make the girdle -- Indicating a righteous servant. T30
Exodus 28:40
And for Aaron's sons -- Representing the members of Christ's Body.

T36
Make coats -- Linen garments, representing the righteousness of Jesus
imputed to his Body members. T36
For them girdles -- Representing us as servants of righteousness. T36
And bonnets -- To indicate that they were not the head of the
priesthood, but merely members of the body. God gave Jesus "to be the
head over all things to the church, which is his body." (Eph. 1:22, 23)
T36; R72:6
Exodus 28:41
Aaron ... and his sons -- The anointing came upon Aaron only at first,
but then upon each of his sons as they succeeded to the office of chief
priest. F131; Q689:3
The High Priest was anointed with oil, which constituted the divine
evidence of his call to the priestly office. SM598:2
Exodus 28:42
Linen -- Symbol of righteousness. T29, T30, T36
Exodus 28:43
Unto the altar -- The Golden Altar in the Holy represents the Church in
the sacrificing condition. T120
Representing the privilege of worship and prayer. R5418:5
And die -- Every feature had to be exactly performed because typical of
important future events. To insure this the penalty for any violation was
death. T12
Exodus 29
Exodus 29:1
One young bullock -- All that happened to the bullock represented

what was to be done to Jesus and to his Body, the Church, as human
beings. T41
And two rams -- The ram for the burnt-offering to show how God
receives our sacrifice, and the ram of consecration to show what effect the
sacrifice will have upon us. T45
Without blemish -- Had our Lord not been absolutely free from sin he
never could have redeemed us. R1186:6
The sacrifice which we are privileged to make is of things to which we
have a right through Christ, which in themselves are lawful and right.
R1187:1
The sacrifice of all our rights implies the sacrifice of life itself as human
beings. R1187:4
Exodus 29:2
And unleavened bread -- Representing the actual purity of Jesus and

the imputed purity of the Church-justification. T46
Tempered with oil -- Representing the indwelling spirit of God--

sanctification. T46
Exodus 29:4
Aaron and his sons -- Representing the new spiritual nature of The
Christ. T41
Bring unto the door -- Symbol of the death of the human will. T21
Wash them with water -- To represent the purity of Jesus, who knew
no sin, and his Church, cleansed through his precious blood and "the
washing of water by the word." (Eph. 5:26) T29
The consecration of the priests began at the laver. R117:1
Exodus 29:5
The coat -- Representing Christ's purity, while its embroidery showed

works of grace. T29
Robe of the ephod -- Representing Christ's faithfulness. T30
And the ephod -- Type of the Abrahamic covenant (front part) and the
And the breastplate -- Type of the Law. T34
With the curious girdle -- Representing a servant. "The Messenger
(servant) of the covenant whom ye delight in." (Mal. 3:1) T33
Exodus 29:6
Put the holy crown -- Representing the power to rule. B83
Exodus 29:7
The anointing oil -- Typifying the holy Spirit. T29, T37, T116;
D650; R5654:5
And anoint him -- Only the High Priest was anointed. As with the
under-priests, the antitypical priests are merely partakers of the spirit of
Christ, and only those who are in Christ Jesus partake of his anointing.
T37
Exodus 29:8
Bring his sons -- Sons only. Similarly, only the males were chosen to
be the special public servants and ambassadors of the Gospel. F265
Put coats upon them - Linen garments, representing the righteousness of
Jesus imputed to us. F36
Exodus 29:9
With girdles -- Representing us as servants of righteousness. T36

Bonnets on them -- To indicate that they were not the head, but merely
members of the body. God gave Jesus "to be the head over all things to the
church, which is his body." (Eph. 1:22, 23) T36
In covering their heads the under-priests said, we are headless, the High
Priest is our head. The spiritual Royal Priesthood must all be headless
also. R2845:4
For a perpetual statute -- Or, age-lasting. Aaron's family lost the
priesthood 1800 years ago. HG582:3*
Exodus 29:10
Cause a bullock -- No goat, because it was not "for the people." (Lev.
16:15) R4384:6
Tabernacle of the congregation - More properly, the tent of meeting.
So called, not because the Israelites met here as a congregation, but
because it was here that God met with the children of Israel and
communicated with them. R4029:6
Put their hands -- Thus saying, this sacrifice represents us. T41;
R73:1
Upon the head of the bullock -- In the consecration of the priests a
bullock only is shown as the sin offering (no goat, because it was not "for
the people"). R4384:6
Exodus 29:11
And thou -- Moses, representing the Law. T41

Kill the bullock -- To meet the demands of the Law. T41
Exodus 29:12
Take of the blood -- Representing the life given. T42

Upon the horns -- Horns are symbols of power. T42
Of the altar -- The "finger of the Lord" thus pointed out that the altar of
earthly sacrifices was acceptable to God by reason of the shed blood, and
that all who realize the power of the altar must first recognize the blood
which sanctifies it. T42; R73:1
Bottom of the altar -- The blood poured at the base of the altar showed
that through the blood of the sacrifice even the earth was purchased back
from the curse. T42
Exodus 29:13
Take all the fat -- Symbol of loving zeal. T57

And burn them -- Representing the steady, continuous submission to
the fiery ordeal of suffering. T71
Upon the altar -- Showing that God accepts the heart devotion which
prompts the sacrifice. T42
Exodus 29:14
And his dung -- The world dis-esteems the sacrifices of the saints as the
consuming of "the filth and offscouring of the earth." (1 Cor. 4:13) "They
shall say all manner of evil against you falsely for my sake." (Matt. 5:11)
T62
Burn with fire -- Representing the destruction to which the world was
doomed, and from which it will ultimately be delivered by the sacrifice of
The Christ. T42
Representing the gradual destruction of the flesh. R4385:1
Jesus' flesh suffered the destruction which otherwise would have come
upon all men. R73:2
Without the camp -- Thus the humanity of the Royal Priesthood is
destroyed as a vile thing in the eyes of the world. T42, T62
"Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his
reproach." (Heb. 13:13) T62
Outside the camp signifies ostracism, rejection of men, dishonor.
R4385:1
As living next door to a worldly neighbor and bearing the reproach of
those, living as a consecrated priest of the Lord. Q688:T
We are in harmony with this burning outside the camp. The New Creature
says, "Let the flesh burn." We suffer in this burning, but do so willingly.
CR487:1
Exodus 29:15
Also take one ram -- The first ram, showing how God receives our
sacrifice. T45
Christ. T41
Put their hands -- Thus indicating that it represented them. T42
Exodus 29:16
And thou -- Moses, representing the Law. T41
Exodus 29:17
Wash the inwards -- Representing the washing of water through the

word. (Eph 5:26) T45
Unto his pieces -- Representing the members of Christ's Body. T45;
SM559:2
The pieces, laid in order to the head, represent the relationship of the
members of the Body with the Lord, the Head of the Body. R4384:6
And unto his head -- Representing the Lord Jesus, who was laid on the
altar first. T45
Exodus 29:18
Burn the whole ram -- Representing steady submission to fiery trials.

T71
A burnt offering -- Representing the Lord and the Church in their
united, and yet divided, relationship. R4384:6
Is a sweet savour -- Showing how God accepts the sacrifice. T45;
R73:2
Exodus 29:19
Take the other ram -- To show the effect the sacrifice has on us. T45
Christ. T41
Put their hands -- Thus indicating that it represented them. T42
Exodus 29:20
Then shalt thou -- Moses, representing the Law. T41

Take of his blood -- Representing the consecrated life. T45
Of the right ear -- Representing that by consecration we get the
"hearing of faith." (Gal. 3:2) T45
Of his sons -- Showing that our consecration is individual. T45
Their right hand -- Our hands are consecrated, so that what so ever our
hands find to do we do it with our might, as unto the Lord. T45
Their right foot -- Our feet are consecrated, so that henceforth we
"walk not as other Gentiles," (Eph 4:17) but "walk in newness of life,"
(Rom. 6:4) "walk by faith," (2 Cor. 5:7) "Walk in the spirit," (Gal. 5:16)
"walk in the light," (1John 1:7) and even "as we received Christ, so walk in
him." (Col. 2:6) T45
Exodus 29:21
Take of the blood -- Teaching that our consecration is accepted only

because we are justified by the precious blood of our Redeemer. T46;
F131
And of the anointing oil -- "There are three that bear record: the spirit
and the water and the blood, and these three agree in one." (1 John 5:8).
R73:5
Exodus 29:22
The fat -- Symbol of loving zeal. T57

The more love (fat) there is connected with our consecration, the more
quickly will it be accepted by him as entire consecration. R73:4
The two kidneys -- Representing our heart sentiments, our best powers.
T45
Exodus 29:23
One loaf of bread -- Unleavened, representing the actual purity of Jesus

and the imputed purity of the Church--justification. T46
First, we acknowledge the purity of the man Christ Jesus. R73:4
Cake of oiled bread -- Representing the indwelling spirit of God--
sanctification. T46
Showing Jesus as our High Priest "filled with the spirit." R73:4
One wafer -- Showing our appreciation of him as our glorified Lord.
R73:4
The basket -- Representative of all their bread. R73:4
Of the unleavened bread -- Purity. R73:4
Exodus 29:24
Put all -The acknowledgments of Christ, shown by the three cakes, are
necessary to the acceptance of our consecration. R73:4
For a wave offering -- Passed to and fro before the Lord. T45
Representing that a consecrated offering is not given to the Lord for a
limited time, but never ceases until we have finished our course. T45
Exodus 29:25
Of their hands -- They did not lay them down, and so we may not cease
to offer all our powers in God's service until all are consumed. T46
Burn them -- God's acceptance is shown by fire. R73:4
Exodus 29:30
Seven days -- Showing that we are consecrated to God's service for all
of our time. T47
Exodus 29:31
Seethe his flesh -- It was no part of the sacrifice, merely the preparing of
the portion which was to be eaten. T47
In the holy place -- When "place" is not in italics, the Court is always
meant. T13; R237:3*, R178:2*
Representing our more earthly phase of life. R237:3*
Exodus 29:34
Burn the remainder -- Showing that we are to be completely and

entirely consecrated, and none of our time and power should be wasted.
T47; R73:5
Exodus 29:35
Seven days -- Showing that we are consecrated, not part of our time,
but all of it; seven being the number of completion. R73:6
Exodus 29:43
There I will meet -- The Church is now a habitation of God, filled with
a large measure of his glory. R1982:2
Exodus 30
Exodus 30:1
Make an altar -- The Golden altar in the Holy represents the Church in
the sacrificing condition. T120
The Golden altar was only acceptable because it had been sprinkled with
the atoning blood taken from the side of the Brazen altar. R101:4*
To burn incense -- Representing the privileges of worship and prayer.
R5418:5
Sweet incense, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ, the incense of faith, love
and obedience to God. T120, T56
Exodus 30:2
The horns -- Symbols of power. T42
Exodus 30:3
With pure gold -- Representing the divine nature. T18, T20
Exodus 30:6
Before the vail -- The passing of the second veil represented the death
of the human body. T21
That is by the ark -- It represented the eternal purpose of God for
The mercy seat -- The Mercy Seat, glory-light and cherubim together
represented Jehovah God. T124
Exodus 30:7
And Aaron -- And his sons who succeeded him in office. T116
When he dresseth -- Representing the trimming off the dross of the old
nature, the wick through which the holy Spirit operates. T117
The lamps -- Seven lamps, representing the complete Church. T115
Exodus 30:8
Burn incense -- Offer acceptable prayer. R17:6

At even-The High Priest daily fills us with the mind of Christ and trims
off the dross of the old nature. T116
Exodus 30:10
And Aaron -- Representing our High Priest, Christ. T36, T116; E449
Make an atonement -- The offerings were presented to God, not to
Satan. E449
Once in a year -- On the Day of Atonement, which typified the entire
Gospel age. T50
With the blood -- None can fully appreciate the power of this altar
without first recognizing the blood. R96:1
Unto the LORD -- The sacrifices for sin, under the Law, were sin
offerings unto Jehovah. R685:4
Exodus 30:13
This -- This poll tax. R3447:6, R2367:1

Half a shekel - About 33 cents. R2367:1
Exodus 30:18
A laver -- No dimensions given. Truth, like its author, is boundless.

R243:6*
Dimensions not given; therefore, as a type, it must be considered unlimited.
R118:4*
Typifying baptism. R117:1*
Typifying not baptism only, but the daily washings of the Word. R117:6*
Of brass -- No wood in its construction, therefore no provision for the
flesh. R117:2*
Exodus 30:21
So they shall wash -- Aaron had to be washed in order fitly to represent

the purity of Jesus. T29
Symbolizing the putting away of filthy practices -- stealing, slander, envy,
strife, back-biting, etc. R1543:6, R3054:2
Exodus 30:23
Principal spices -- Representing principal things which go to make up

the anointing which we receive. R4092.3*
Of pure myrrh -- Symbol of wisdom-knowing what to do. R4093:2*
Five hundred shekels -- The amount of myrhh was equal to the
amounts of cinnamon and calamus combined. So God, in our anointing,
gives us wisdom equal to our understanding and knowledge combined.
R4093:2*
Of sweet cinnamon -- Symbol of the understanding which we have of
all the knowledge which we receive from God. R4093:2*
Of sweet calamus -- Symbol of the knowledge which we receive from
God's Word. R4093:2*
250 shekels -- The amounts of cinnamon and calamus were equal, so we
would expect in our anointing that we would have the understanding of all
the knowledge received of God. R4093:2*
Exodus 30:24
And of cassia -- Symbol of deputyship, described in Scripture as

"workmanship" and as "counsel and might." God gives no knowledge
except for a purpose. He establishes our faith by giving the understanding
thereof, then gives us the wisdom to know what is expected of us, and
finally blesses us with the advice and ability (counsel and might) necessary
for good workmanship in the accomplishment of his purposes. All that is
expected of us is full consecration to the Lord and his service. All the rest
he will supply in knowledge, understanding, wisdom, counsel and might.
With more than this he cannot anoint us. R4093:3*
And of oil olive -- Symbol of light through the holy Spirit. D651
Exodus 30:25
Holy anointing oil -- Typifying the holy Spirit. T29, T37, T116;
D650; R5654:5, R72:2
Of peculiar composition-olive oil, the basis, with perfumes, etc., added.
SM598:2
Poured out upon our Head, Christ Jesus. It reached the Church at
Pentecost and has been f lowing down, anointing the members ever since.
R2225:1
Jewish Law required that every king and every priest be anointed before
serving. R5227:3
Exodus 30:30
Anoint Aaron -- The anointing came upon Aaron only at first, but upon
each of his sons as they succeeded to the office of chief priest. F131;
Q689:3; T37
evidence of his call to priestly office. SM598:2
Exodus 30:32
Any other like it -- The Israelites were not permitted to compound a

similar oil, showing typically that the holy Spirit is different from
everything else and that its anointing is superior to any other. SM598:2
After the composition -- According to the proportion thereof. Those
who mix the proportions of the spirit differently are false brethren.
R4093:4*
Exodus 30:33
Even be cut off -- Only the consecrated ones are ever to be anointed
with the holy Spirit. T29
Exodus 30:34
Pure frankincense -- Representing praise, heart adoration and

gratitude. R3703:5
Exodus 30:35
A perfume -- The prayers of God's people rise up before him as a sweet

perfume. R5692:5
Exodus 30:37
Ye shall not make -- None could be made like it. We think it represents
the perfection of the "man Christ Jesus." R79:2
Holy for the LORD -- As nobody was allowed to make that incense
except the priests, so the privilege of prayer is confined to the Royal
Priesthood. R5692:5
Exodus 31
Exodus 31:2
By name Bezaleel -- Signifies "shadow of the Almighty," a type of

Christ. R4092:6*
The son of Uri -- Signifies "light," the Light of the world. R4092:6*
The son of Hur -- Meaning "grave," Christ humbled himself, even unto
death. R4092:6*
The tribe of Judah -- Meaning "praised"; Christ was praised in his
pre-human existence. R4092:6*
Exodus 31:3
I have filled him -- Fecundated their minds without affecting them in

any moral sense. E175
In wisdom -- See comments on Exodus 30:23, 24.
Exodus 31:4
To work in gold -- Representing the divine nature. T18, T20;

R4092:6*
And in silver -- Symbol of truth. T114
Representing the spirit nature--Great Company. R4092:6*, R4745:6
And in brass -- Copper, symbol of perfect human nature. T18,
R4092:6*
Exodus 31:5
Cutting of stones -- The polishing of the Lord's jewels. R4092:6*

To set them -- As the Father pleases. R4093:1*
Carving of timber -- The fallen human race. R4093:1*
Of workmanship -- As restitution will produce for the race. R4093:1*
Exodus 31:7
And the ark -- It represented the eternal purpose of God for mankind in
The Christ, Head and Body. T121
The mercy seat -- The Mercy Seat, glory-light and cherubim together
Exodus 31:8
And the table -- Representing the Church as a whole, holding forth the
word of life. T115; R5418:5
The pure candlestick -- Representing the entire Church, the true
lightbearers. T116
The altar of incense -- The Golden altar in the Holy represents the
Church in the sacrificing condition. T120
Representing the privileges of worship and prayer. R5418:5
Exodus 31:9
And the altar -- Representing Christ's ransom sacrifice. T22

Exodus 31:11
And the anointing oil-Typifying the holy Spirit. T29, T37, T116;
D650; R5654:5
And sweet incense -- Representing the perfection of the man Jesus.
When he came in contact with the trials of life (fire), he yielded perfect
obedience to the divine will-a sweet perfume. T56, T120
Exodus 31:13
Verily my sabbaths -- Type of the Millennial age. B40

Doth sanctify you -- As the Lord said to the typical Israelites, "sanctify
ourselves" and "I will sanctify you," so also he directs the spiritual
Israelite to consecrate himself, and only to those who so do does the Lord
sanctify and apportion crowns. F123
Exodus 31:15
The sabbath of rest -- The Jews kept six kinds of sabbaths: the 7th day
(Exod. 31:15); the 7th week (Deut. 16:9); the 7x7 and 50th day (Lev.
23:15); the beginning of the 7th month (Lev. 23:24); the 7th year (Lev.
25:4) and 7x7 and 50th year (Lev. 25:10). HG56:1
Exodus 31:16
A perpetual covenant -- Olam, age-lasting. Used elsewhere of the

harvest offering (Lev. 23:14); the Pentecostal sacrifice (Lev. 23:21), the
Dav of Atonement (Lev. 23:31,32) and the Feast of Tabernacles (Lev.
23:41). HG582:2*
Exodus 31:17
It is a sign -- The seal or mark of our covenant is wholly different. It is

the possession of the spirit of Christ. R2032:3
Exodus 31:18
Two tables of testimony -- Perhaps representing the two parts of God's

Law: one pertaining to us and the other to our fellow men-loving God and
loving neighbor. Q704:1
Exodus 32
Exodus 32:1
When the people -- Having an "evil heart of unbelief." (Heb. 3:12).

R3046:3
As our Lord came to his own and thev received him not, so at his second
coming professed spiritual Israel did not receive him. R3047:5
They were unable to trust God whom they could not see after his
representative, Moses, was out of sight. R5298:1
That Moses delayed -- Similarly our Lord's absence was longer than
had been expected and many claim that he will not come again. R3048:1
As for this Moses -- At this very time, when the people were thus
speaking lightly of him, Moses was importuning the Lord for them.
R3046:5
Exodus 32:2
And Aaron -- The weakness of Aaron is very markedly shown in this

incident. R3046:6
The golden earrings -- Possibly a subterfuge, hoping that by making
this demand they would draw back and decline to part with their
ornaments. R4022:4, R3046:6
Exodus 32:3
And brought them -- How many, in their worshiping of a sect or

denomination, will strip themselves of their most valuable possessions.
R4022:5
Exodus 32:4
A molten calf -- Symbolizing Churchianity, as well as Mammon, the

god of wealth, of money. R4022:6, R3047:3
Shall we, like Israel of old, turn to gods we formerly worshipped-gods of
wealth or of pleasure. R5548:3
The Israelites probably recognized the golden calf as merely a symbol of
Jehovah, just as the heathen use idols and some Christians use the crucifix
as a representation of Christ. R5298:1, R4022:2, R3047:1
It is improbable that the jewelry would have been enough. Perhaps the calf
was made of clay or wood and covered over with gold. R5298:2
Pictures the worship of self and the works of self, especially evidenced in
Higher Criticism. R5267:3*
The sin of covetousness, the worship of Mammon, the idolatry of money, is
the great sin of Christendom, the antitype of fleshly Israel. R1836:1
Exodus 32:5
An altar before it -- It is but natural that we should sacrifice to

whatever we set up in our hearts as an idol. If we know the things to which
one sacrifices his best thoughts, time and influence, we can tell his idol.
R4023:2
To the LORD -- To Jehovah; showing that the idolatry here was not
different from the kind practiced today in some Christian churches where
images, pictures, crucifixes, etc. are worshipped. R3047:1, R5298:1,
R4022:2
Exodus 32:6
Rose up to play -- Dances and supposedly lewd conduct, after the

manner of heathen. R3047:2
Idolatry is not the blind adoration of superior dignity, but it is wilful and
sinful devotion to degrading self-gratification. R1835:6
Exodus 32:9
Unto Moses -- Moses was the Mediator of the Law covenant. Christ
became the heir of its promises of life and the Mediator of the New
covenant. R1725:4
Who acted representatively in bringing the Law covenant upon the
Israelites, as Christ acted representatively in removing it. R1725:4,
R5046:6
A stiffnecked people -- Like an ox, difficult to turn about. R5387:3
Their stubborness will eventually show the mercy of God through his
dealing with them. OV120:4
Exodus 32:10
I will make of thee -- Showing how thoroughly Moses was the

representative of the nation of Israel. R5046:5
Exodus 32:11
Besought the LORD -- He thus showed himself a worthy type of the

great Mediator. R3046:5
Exodus 32:13
Remember Abraham -- The Jews were not selected because they were
holier or better than others, but for their fathers' sakes God chose them.
R5917:3
Exodus 32:15
And went down -- His return to the people from Mt. Sinai
corresponded to the second coming of Christ. R1836:4
Exodus 32:16
And the tables -- Representing the perfection of our race as originally

created. R2196:4
Exodus 32:19
Anger waxed hot -- As the Mediator between God and Israel--the

representative of both--he had a right to be angry, realizing what a serious
crime had taken place. R5298:2, R5547:2
Cast the tables -- Type of the Law covenant. D631
And brake them -- Representing the failure of the Law covenant by
reason of the "weakness of the flesh." D631
Indicating that the covenant was broken. R5298:2
The first tables, prepared by the Lord himself, represents how Adam was
created perfect, needing no other law than that which was in himself. But
this law was broken and the original tables are shattered and have grown
illegible. R5298:6
Exodus 32:20
in the fire -- Symbolizes the destruction of hoarded wealth in the great

time of trouble. R1836:4
Exodus 32:26
Then Moses -- Our Lord is even now standing at the gate calling, as did
Moses in the type, "Who is on the Lord's side?" R3048:2
All the sons of Levi -- Typical of the "Israelites indeed" at both the first
and second advents. R3047:5
Typical of the "household of faith" of the Gospel age. R3047:3
Exodus 32:28
About 3000 men -- The leaders of the people. R3047:3

Exodus 32:29
Consecrate yourselves - Consecrate anew today, not invalidating the

consecration made once for all, but re-affirming and emphasizing that
covenant. R1281:3
Exodus 32:30
Sinned a great sin -- In their trial of faith and obedience they failed
utterly. The covenant was broken. R5297:3
God was greatly displeased with their symbolic representation of himself.
R5298:1
I will go up -- As Moses went up to make reconciliation for their sins,
so Christ, as the High Priest, ascended to make atonement for the sins of
the people. R3047:5
Exodus 32:31
And Moses -- As God's representative on the one hand, and Israel's on

the other, Moses could be the Mediator of the Law covenant between God
and that nation. R1725:4, R5046:6
Type of Christ. D630; A79, B255
Exodus 32:32
Forgive their sin -- After punishing them, God renewed the covenant
with them. R5297:3
Blot me, I pray thee, out -- As Moses here staked his own eternal
existence for the benefit of the people, so the life of Christ was staked for
the benefit of the race he died to redeem. R4023:5
Moses was a patriot of the highest order: loyal, as Israel's representative,
and at the same time loyal to God, whom he also represented. R5298:3,
R3048:4
There was not a particle of selfishness on his own part; a very noble
character, worthy to be compared to our Lord Jesus Christ, who risked the
blotting out of his own life on our behalf. Q537:3
This finds two parallels in Scripture: David weeping for Absalom, "Would
God I had died for thee" (2 Sam. 18:33); and St. Paul's words, "I could
wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren according to
the flesh." (Rom. 9:3) R4278:2
Of thy book -- The book of God's remembrance, the book of life.
Q537:3
Exodus 32:34
Lead the people -- Typifying our Mediator, who has actually given his
life for us in order to bring whosoever wills back into full accord with God.
R3048:5
Unto the place -- The Edenic conditions, the land of promise. R3048:5
Their sin upon them -- So it will be during the Millennial age. Men
will receive stripes or chastisements in proportion as they participated
willingly or knowingly in a course of sin. R3048:5
Exodus 33
Exodus 33:11
Face to face -- Signifying a closeness of fellowship with the Lord rather

than really looking into the face of Jehovah. R4055:2
We see the Lord's face with the eye of faith, for we see the Lord Jesus who
represents the Father and declares that he who has seen him has seen the
Father. (John 14:9) R4055:2
"Their angels do always have access to the face of my Father" (Matt. 18:
10); all our interests and affairs are brought directly to the Father's
attention. R4055:4
Exodus 33:14
My presence -- By his spirit and through his angelic messengers.

R5547:5
His power and sustaining grace. R5548:1
Because he was speaking to Moses as the Mediator. R5387:6
Not literally. God manifests his power and love to his people by his
various powers and agents, not merely to know what is happening, but to
control all events that they may outwork his designs. He guides and assists
the efforts of his people. R5387:2
The divine presence was manifested directly with the Israelites in the
Shekinah glory in the Most Holy and also by the pillar of cloud by day and
the pillar of fire by night. R5387:5, R5548:1
Similarly, God has promised that his presence is with us in all the affairs of
life. R5548:2, R5862:5
Shall go with thee -- If we call him in the busy hours of the day or in
the silent watches of the night, he is near to sustain, uphold and protect.
R5549:1
I will give thee rest -- The rest in Canaan was a type of the rest of the
people of God in the Gospel age. We rest in his promises. R5388:1
Exodus 33:15
If thy presence go not -- Moses felt the task too great for any man to
accomplish alone and so do we. R5548:2
Exodus 33:20
No man see me, and live -- "Whom no man hath seen nor can see,
dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto." (1 Tim. 6:16)
F722
Humanity, being of earthly nature, could not see a spirit being. R3861:6
It is just as impossible for men to see the unveiled glory of the Lord Jesus
as it is for them to behold Jehovah. B131
A perfect human being would be the best illustration mankind could see,
and this they saw in our Lord Jesus, the Father's image in the flesh.
R3861:6
Those who saw and understood Jesus to be the Son of God caught the best
possible glimpse of the Heavenly Father. R5653:6
Exodus 33:22
My glory passeth by -- The Lord's special messenger, the angel of the

Lord. Q360:2
Exodus 33:23
Thou shalt see -- An appearance representing God; nothing more was

possible. "No man hath seen God at any time." (John 1:18) B132
Exodus 34
Exodus 34:1
Two tables of stone -- Representing that The Christ is commissioned

to prepare the hearts of mankind for the rewriting of the divine law.
R5299:1
Symbolized the preparation of mankind through the justification
accomplished by Christ. R2196:4
And I will write -Typifyingthe work of The Christ during the
Millennial age; the engraving of the law of God in the very hearts of all the
willing. R2196:4
Exodus 34:4
Hewed two tables -- Representing that The Christ is commissioned to

prepare the hearts of mankind for the rewriting of the divine law. R5299:1
Exodus 34:7
By no means clear -- God can never pardon sin. The word "pardon"
does not occur in the New Testament, and in the Old should be translated
"forgive." R387:1
To have pardoned Adam, God would have made of himself a liar. R386:6
The righteousness of God's law demanded a satisfaction for the claims of
justice -- a life for a life. R1917:1
Thus God's law demanded a ransom. R709:5
But he has provided a way in which he can be just and yet justify. (Rom.
3:26). HG308:2
Showing God's justice. Yet he was so loving that he gave his only
begotten son to redeem us from death. R391:5
While justice was reading to Adam the penalty of the broken law, love was
telling him that there would be a deliverance. R586:5
Unto the third and ... fourth -- Contrary to Darwin. Deviations from
the species prototype are corrected in the course of three generations-N.Y.
Times. R4859:6*
Exodus 34:9
A stiffnecked people -- Like an ox, difficult to turn about. R5387:3

Their stubbornness will eventually show the mercy of God through his
dealing with them. OV120:4
Exodus 34:21
On the seventh day -- Type of the Millennial age. R5071:6; B40;

Q607:4
Exodus 34:25
With leaven -- Symbol of corruption, sin. R5192:4; F464; T98
Exodus 34:27
A covenant with thee -- God's covenant with Israel made at Sinai and
the course of that people under the dominion of that Law are represented
by the First Ascending Passage of the Great Pyramid of Egypt. Ciii
Exodus 34:28
With the LORD -- Supernaturally strengthened to behold his glory.

B131
Covenant, the ten -- The Law written upon tables of stone represented
that covenant because every blessing under that covenant was made
dependant upon absolute obedience to that Law. R1724:4
It served them well as a servant to bring them to Christ. R1724:5
The Ten Commandments were a part of the Law covenant, supplanted by
the New covenant-"he is the Mediator of a better covenant, which was
established upon better promises." (Heb. 8:6) R1732:1
Exodus 34:29
Moses came down -- A type of the greater lawgiver and Mediator of the
New covenant, Christ, Head and Body, who shall come forth to bless the
world. B134; D630; R5035:4
With the two tables -- Representing the New covenant, of which Christ
is the Mediator. D631; B134
His face shone -- Typifying the spiritual glory of The Christ. B134;
D631
The "figure" was "glorious"; the reality "excelleth" in glory. (2 Cor. 3:10).
R1323:2*
Exodus 34:30
They were afraid -- If unable to view this reflected glory, how could
natural man ever expect to see him who is now "the express image of the
Father's person"? (Heb. 1:3) B131
Exodus 34:33
A vail on his face -- Typical of the blindness of their hearts. R1323:4*

Typifies the earthly phase of the Kingdom, the "princes in all the earth"
through whom the Christ will speak to the people, the glory being hidden.
D630; R5035:4, R5299:2, R4310:6
Illustrating that when the glory of the Lord is revealed the glory of the
spiritual persons cannot be seen. They will be under cover. B134;
R4366:5
Exodus 35
Exodus 35:2
A sabbath of rest -- Type of the Millennial age. R5071:6; B40;

Q607:4
Doeth work therein -- It does not say to cease from ordinary work and
engage in religious work; but prohibits all kinds of work. R1727:1
Exodus 35:3
No fire -- In the way of cooking. R1727:1, R971:5
Exodus 35:5
Gold -- Representing the divine nature. T18, T20

And silver -- Symbol of truth. T114
And brass -- Copper, symbol of perfect human nature. T18
Exodus 35:6

Exodus 35:7
And badgers' skins -- As God covered the Tabernacle with unsightly

Royal Priesthood. T127
Exodus 35:8
And oil -- Symbolic of the holy Spirit. T29, T37, T116; D650;
R5654:5
Exodus 35:9
Stones to be set -- The Lord's jewels, his "Little Flock." T36

For the ephod -- Type of the Abrahamic covenant (front part) and the
For the breastplate -- Type of the Law. T34
Exodus 35:12
The ark -- It represents the eternal purpose of God for mankind in The
With the mercy seat -- The Mercy Seat, glory-light and cherubim
together represented Jehovah God. T123
The vail of the covering -- The passing of the second veil represented
the death of the human body. T21
Exodus 35:13
The table -- Representing the Church as a whole, holding forth the

word of life. T115
And the shewbread -- Representing the truth, the word of life. T22,
T115; R5418:5
Exodus 35:14
The candlestick -- Representing the entire Church, the true

light-bearers. T116
For the light -- Representing holy enlightenment, the spirit of truth.
T116; R5418:5, R5621:6
With the oil-Symbolic of the holy spirit. T29, T37, T116; D650;
R5654:5
Exodus 35:15
The incense altar -- The Golden altar in the Holy represents the Church
in the sacrificing condition. T120
The sweet incense -- The sweet incense beaten small represented the
perfection of the man Jesus. When the perfection of his being (incense)
came in contact with the trials of life (fire), he yielded perfect obedience to
the divine will-a sweet perfume. T56, T120
Hanging for the door -- Symbol of the death of the human will. T21
Exodus 35:16
Altar of burnt offering -- Representing Christ's ransom sacrifice. T22
Exodus 35:17
Hangings of the court -- Representing to those within, a wall of faith;

but to those without, a wall of unbelief which hindered their view of and
access to the holy things within. T18
The door of the court -- "I am the way," "I am the door." There is only
one way of access to God. T18
The way out of unbelief and sin. T22
Exodus 35:31
With the spirit of God -- Fecundated their minds, energizing natural

faculties without affecting them in any moral sense. E175
Exodus 36
Exodus 36:8

Exodus 36:13
Taches of gold -- Representing the divine nature. T18, T20
Exodus 36:18
Taches of brass -- Copper, symbol of perfect human nature. T18
Exodus 36:19
He made a covering -- No eye could penetrate it. Representing our

"hidden life" in which we "walk by faith, not by sight." R237:3*
Of badgers' skins -- As God covered the Tabernacle with unsightly
Royal Priesthood. T127
Exodus 36:24
Sockets of silver -- Symbol of truth. T114
Exodus 36:35
He made a vail -- The passing of the second veil represented the death
of the human body. T21
Exodus 36:37
The tabernacle door -- Symbol of the death of the human will. T21
Exodus 36:38
The five pillars -- The door posts at the entrance to the Tabernacle
represented the "New Creatures in Christ"-the consecrated saints. The
difference between these and the posts in the Court represents the
difference between the condition of the justified believers and the sanctified
believers. T114
Exodus 37
Exodus 37:1
Made the ark -- It represented the eternal purpose of God for mankind
in The Christ, Head and Body. T121
Exodus 37:2
With pure gold -- Representing the divine nature. T18, T20
Exodus 37:6
The mercy seat -- Representing the underlying principle of Jehovah's

character-justice. T124
Exodus 37:7
He made two cherubims -- Representing divine love and power. T125

Out of one piece -- All the divine attributes are in perfect harmony.
T125
Exodus 37:9
Mercy seatward -- Neither love nor power can be exercised until

justice is fully satisfied; hence they look inward towards justice to know
when to move. T125
Exodus 37:10
Made the table -- Representing the Church as a whole, holding forth

the word of life. T115; R5418:5
Exodus 37:17
Made the candlestick -- Representing the entire Church, the true

light-bearers. T116
Of beaten work -- We feel almost discouraged sometimes at the knocks
and blows we receive, forgetting that the branches must be like the shaft --
all of beaten work. R243:5*
Exodus 37:19
The fashion of almonds -- In the almond tree fruit buds appear before
leaves. So with the Royal Priesthood: they begin to sacrifice, or bring forth
fruit, before the leaves of profession are seen. T122
A knop and a flower -- Representing the true Church as both beautiful
and fruitful from first to last. T116
Exodus 37:25
The incense altar -- The Golden altar in the Holy represents the Church
The horns thereof -- Symbols of power. T42
Exodus 37:29
Holy anointing oil -- Typifying the holy Spirit. T29, T37, T116;
D650; R5654:5
The pure incense -- The sweet incense beaten small represented the
perfection of the man Jesus. When he came in contact with the trials of life
(fire), he yielded perfect obedience to the divine will-a sweet perfume.
T56, T120
The prayers of God's people rise up before him as a sweet perfume.
R5692:5
Exodus 38
Exodus 38:1
He made the altar -- Representing Christ's ransom sacrifice. T22

Exodus 38:2
He made the horns -- Symbols of power. T42
With brass -- Copper; symbol of perfect human nature. T18
Exodus 38:8
The laver of brass -- Aaron had to be washed in order fitly to represent

Symbolizing the putting away of filthy practices -- lying, stealing, slander,
envy, strife, back-biting, etc. R1543:6, R3054:2
Lookingglasses -- Polished copper mirrors. R117:1*
Exodus 38:9
He made the court -- Representing the condition of justification. T19

advance toward the Holy, in that proportion they draw nigh to God and
See comments on Exodus 27:9.
In the present time, the Court represents the condition of all those who,
exercising faith in God, are approaching nearer and nearer to him and his
service-a condition of divine favor. R4922:5, R5418:3
Hangings of the court -- Representing, to those within, a wall of faith;
but to those without, a wall of unbelief which hinders their view of and
access to the holy things within. T18
Fine twined linen -- Representing Christ's righteousness. T36, T114
Exodus 38:10
Their pillars -- Representing justified believers. T113

Their brasen sockets -- Copper; representing that, though actually
imperfect, the standing of the justified believer is that of a perfect human
being. T113
Hooks ... of silver -- Silver being a symbol of truth, justified believers,
pillars, can truthfully claim that Christ's righteousness (the linen curtain)
covers all their imperfections. T114
The Great Company class was represented by the "silver." R4745:6
Exodus 38:18
For the gate -- "I am the way" (John 14:6); "I am the door" (John
10:9). There is only one way of access to God. T18
Exodus 39
Exodus 39:2
Made the ephod -- Type of the Abrahamic covenant (front part) and the
Of gold -- Representing divine power. T34
Blue -- Representing the ability faithfully to maintain his righteous
character. T34
And purple -- Proclaims the royal power of the Kingdom cooperating.
T34
And scarlet -- Representing redemption from the Adamic curse through
the blood of the ransom. T34
Fine twined linen -- Indicating the restoration of man to his original
purity. T34
Exodus 39:4
Shoulderpieces -- Golden clasps representing divine power to enable

Christ to carry out the terms of both covenants. T30
Exodus 39:5
The curious girdle -- Representing a servant. "The messenger (servant)

of the covenant whom ye delight in." (Mal. 3:1) T33
Exodus 39:8
The breastplate -- Type of the Law. T34
Exodus 39:9
A span -- Indicating that the Law of God is the full measure of a perfect
man's ability. T35
Being doubled -- Representing the spirit and letter of the Law; the front
part, which bore the jewels, representing the spirit of the Law, fulfilled in
us "who walk not after the flesh, but after the spirit" (Rom. 8:4); the back
part representing the Law in letter as presented to fleshly Israel. T35
Exodus 39:10
Four rows of stones -- Representing the true Israel, the "Little Flock."
"They shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up
my jewels." (Mal. 3:17) T36
Exodus 39:15
Work of pure gold -- Indicating that the Law is divine and that we are
upheld by the golden chain of divine promises. T36
Exodus 39:20
The ephod underneath -- As the Israelites regarded them, not seeing

the hidden connection, the Abrahamic covenant and the Law were all one.
T34
Exodus 39:22
The robe . . . of blue -Symbol of Christ's faithfulness. T30
Exodus 39:24
Pomegranates -- Representing that the faithful performance of the

Redeemer's work of sacrifice has borne rich fruit. T30
Exodus 39:25
Bells of pure gold -- The golden bells signifying that when our High
Priest appears in glory the fruit of his sacrificial work will be proclaimed to
all. T30
Exodus 39:27
Coats of fine linen -- Representing the righteousness of Jesus imputed

to his Body members. T36
For Aaron -- Representing our High Priest, Christ. T36, T116; E449
And for his sons -- Representing the members of Christ's Body. T36
Exodus 39:28
A mitre of fine linen -- A strip of fine white linen, typical of

righteousness, worn around the forehead, to which the golden plate, or
crown, was fastened. T29
And goodly bonnets -- To indicate that they were not the head of the
priesthood but merely members of the body. God gave Jesus "to be the
head over all things to the church, which is his body." (Eph. 1:22, 23) T36
Exodus 39:29
And a girdle -- Indicating a righteous servant. T30
Exodus 39:30
HOLINESS TO THE LORD -- Thus proclaiming Christ's entire

devotion to the accomplishment of Jehovah's purposes. T30
Exodus 39:31
A lace of blue -- Showing that the crown was righteously his. T29
Exodus 39:32
Thus was all the work -- God's minute instructions respecting the
Tabernacle were only for the lessons it would convey to us. Its Court, Holy
and Most Holy, its furniture, priests and sacrifices illustrated the most
important features of the divine plan. PD36/47
Exodus 40
Exodus 40:2
The tabernacle -- Was not a church edifice or a place of worship for

Israel. R3053:3
Only the tribe of Levi were permitted in the Court. R3053:6
Exodus 40:3
Put therein the ark -- It represented the eternal purpose of God for
With the vail -- The passing of the second veil represented the death of
the human body. T21
Exodus 40:4
Bring in the table -- Representing the Church as a whole, holding forth

The candlestick -- Representing the entire Church, the true
light-bearers. T116
Exodus 40:5
The altar of gold -- The Golden altar in the Holy represents the Church
The spiritual privileges, praises, prayers and communion which we have
with the Lord R3054:2
Hanging of the door -- Symbol of the death of the human will. T21
Exodus 40:6
Set the altar -- Representing Christ's ransom sacrifice. T22

Representing primarily the perfection of the man Christ Jesus. R3053:6
Exodus 40:7
Set the laver -- Aaron had to be washed in order fitly to represent the
purity of Jesus. T29
envy, back-biting, etc. R1543:6, R3054:2
Exodus 40:8
Set up the court -- Representing the condition of justification. T19;

R3053:6
advance toward the Holy, in that proportion they draw nigh to God and
In the present time the Court represents the condition of divine favor of all
who, exercising faith in God, are approaching nearer and nearer to him.
R4922:5, R5418:3
We might also understand that the Levites in the Court very fittingly
represent all those who desire to turn from sin and approach God, making
progress toward complete justification. R4878:1
While the Court condition seems to represent at the present time all those
who are approaching God, it appears as though with the close of this age
the Great Company is represented by the Court condition thereafter.
R4878:4
Only the Levites will be in the Court. In its last analysis, the Court
represents the spirit-begotten ones separated from the world. R4745:6
The Israelites in general were not permitted within even the outermost of
the Tabernacle enclosures, the Court. R3053:6
Hanging at the court gate -- "I am the way," "I am the door." There is
only one way of access to God. T18
Exodus 40:9
The anointing oil -- Typifying the holy Spirit. T29, T37, T116;
D650; R5654:5
Exodus 40:12
And his sons -- As the priests must be Levites, so those who would be
of the Royal Priesthood must have been justified believers. R3054:1
Door of the tabernacle -- Consecration, full and complete. R3054:2
And wash them -- Aaron had to be washed in order fitly to represent
envy, back-biting, etc. R1543:6, R3054:2
Exodus 40:13
The holy garments -- Symbolizing the heavenly grandeur, honors and

glories of Messiah during his reign. OV127:5
Clad in his robes of glory, the High Priest represented Messiah blessing
mankind. PD36/47
And anoint him -- The anointing came upon Aaron only at first; but
upon each of his sons as they succeeded him to the office of chief priest.
F131; Q689:3
Exodus 40:15
Shalt anoint them -- The anointing came upon Aaron only at first; but
upon each of his sons as they succeeded him to the office of chief priest.
F131; Q689:3
Exodus 40:20
The mercy seat -- The mercy seat, glory-light and cherubim together
Exodus 40:22
He put the table -- Representing the Church as a whole, holding forth

Exodus 40:23
The bread in order -- Representing the truth, the word of life. T22,
T115
Spiritual food. R5418:5, R5621:6
Exodus 40:24
Put the candlestick -- Representing the entire Church, the true

light-bearers. T116
Exodus 40:25
Lighted the lamps -- Symbolizing the enlightenment of the holy Spirit.

R3054:4
Exodus 40:26
Before the vail -- And not in the Most Holy, as Heb. 9:4, where there is
either a slip of the tongue by St. Paul, or an error by his amanuensis.
Q702:3
Exodus 40:34
Then a cloud -- A manifestation of God's protecting care over them as

his people. R4028:3, R4029:5
Covered the tent -- Teaching that God should be the center of all
ambition and activity, spirituality and veneration first, in the center of our
affections. R4028:3, R4029:6
Glory of the LORD -- The enlightenment of the holy Spirit has been
with us, an ever present help and guide. R4029:6
Filled the tabernacle -- Showing God's approval of the Tabernacle.
R1237:4
When we were begotten of the holy Spirit and God took up his abode with
us, the glory of the Lord filled us. R4029:6
Exodus 40:36
When the cloud -- If all brethren look to the Lord for guidance, then all
are ready for his leading, whether to move or to stay. R4098:6
Whoever comes into harmony with the divine arrangement will be brought
into touch with all others who are in fellowship with the Father and his
glorious plan. R4028:5
Leviticus
General
Year by year continuously, the Israelites kept up their
attempt to gain divine favor by obedience to the terms of their
Law covenant. And year by year they failed afresh, until
Jesus came. The great lessons taught by Israel's experiences
were: (1) That all are sinners; (2) That no sinner can justify
himself; (3) That an atonement for sin is necessary before
divine favor can be fully attained for all mankind; and (4)
That since the penalty is death, only by a sacrificial death can
sinners be released from the death penalty.
If the Jewish Law gave a hint that a sacrificial death would
be necessary for the cancellation of human sin it also gave a
hint that the death of bulls and of goats was not sufficient.
SM71, SM72:2
Those sacrifices which do not belong to the class we
denominate the "Day of Atonement sacrifices" illustrated
offerings and sacrifices which belong to the Millennial age.
As in the type, the Day of Atonement sacrifices preceded all
others and were a basis for the general forgiveness and
acceptance with God of all Israel, but were followed by other
sacrifices by individuals after that day, termed "sin-
offerings"... "trespass-offerings," "peace offerings," etc., so it
will be in the antitype. After the sacrifices of this Gospel age
have brought "the people," the world, into a justified
condition there will still be sins and trespasses committed
which will require confession and reconciliation, making
these after-sacrifices necessary. T93, T94
Leviticus 1
Leviticus 1:1
And spake unto him -- Moses thus attributes the origin of

the Mosaic Law to God, not to himself. A53
Leviticus 1:2
If any man of you -- Typifying mankind in the Millennial

age. T96
Bring an offering -- An individual offering following the
general offering of the great Day of Atonement. T93
Leviticus 1:3
Burnt sacrifice -- The value of Christ's work in the

Father's estimation. R84:1*
Without blemish -- Only the sacrifices of those justified
are acceptable to God. R1186:6, R1585:4
A sacrifice of things to which we have a right by Christ.
R1187:1
Voluntary will -- The sacrifice must be of the free will and
desire of the offerer. T96
There was peace between God and the sacrificer, so that the
offering was not made for his own sins. R4389:3
Leviticus 1:4
Shall be accepted -- A burnt-offering shows divine

acceptance. R4389:3
Leviticus 1:5
Kill the bullock -- By the close of the Millennium there

will be no longer any poor in the sense of inability to offer a
"bullock"--mental, moral and physical perfection. T96
Bullocks represent our Lord Jesus. R4389:3
Leviticus 1:7
Upon the altar -- The same altar used by the priests in the
Atonement Day sacrifices, showing that the offerings of the
world during the Millennial age will be acceptable because of
the sacrifices offered during the Gospel age. T97
Leviticus 1:9
A sweet savour -- Typifying a thankful prayer to Jehovah

and acknowledgment of his wisdom, mercy and love as
manifested in the broken body of Christ, their ransom. T97
Leviticus 1:10
The goats -- Goats represent the Church, the under-priesthood. R4389:3

Leviticus 1:13
Bring It all -- The offering was made to God and accepted

by God as a whole. R4389:3
Leviticus 1:14
Be of fowls -- Representing the morally poor and degraded.

T95
Leviticus 2
Leviticus 2:1
And when any -- Typifying the world of mankind in the

Millennial age. T98
A meat offering -- "My meat is to do the will of him that
sent me." (John 4:34) R84:1*
Setting forth Christ's perfect human character and conduct.
R84:1*
Probably representing offerings of praise and worship. T98
Fine flour -- There was no roughness or unevenness in
Jesus' character. R84:2*
Frankincense -- Representing praise, heart adoration.
R3703:4
The word is derived from a verb, "to be or make white" and is
so used in (Psa. 51:7) and (Isa. 1:18). R84:5*
Tells of the relationship between the bridegroom and the
bride. (Song of Sol. 3:4, 4:6, 14) R84:5*
Leviticus 2:2
His handful -- As a sample. T98

Unto the LORD -- To show that it was approved by
Jehovah. T99
Leviticus 2:3
Shall be Aaron's -- Showing that the praise and worship

will be offered to Jehovah through Christ. T98
Leviticus 2:4
Baken in the oven -- The perfect man in his hot distress.

R84:2*
Anointed with oil -- God anointed Jesus with the holy
Spirit. (Acts 10:38) R84:4*
Leviticus 2:5
Mingled with oil -- Jesus the seed of the woman, but not
of Joseph. R84:3*
Leviticus 2:11
With leaven -- Symbol of corruption, error, sin. T98;

F464; R84:5*
Honey -- Whatever is sweet to nature must be disowned.
R84:5*
Leviticus 2:13
With salt -- Symbol of fidelity, loyalty and incorruption.

R508:5*
Symbol of an everlasting covenant. R84:6*
"Ye are the salt of the earth." (Matt. 5:13) R2099:2
Leviticus 3
Leviticus 3:1
A sacrifice -- The offering of any of the world of mankind

during the Millennial age. T93, T98
Of peace offering -- Representing a covenant of entire
consecration. T98
Represents the willingness of the individual who sacrifices;
showing that there was peace between God and the sacrificer,
so that the offering was not for his own sin. R4389:3
Leviticus 3:3
And he -- The offerer. T98
Shall offer -- With his own hands. T98

The fat -- Symbol of loving zeal. T57
Leviticus 3:4
The two kidneys -- Representing the best powers of the

offerer. T45
Leviticus 3:5
On the altar -- The same altar used by the priests in the

Atonement Day sacrifices, showing that the offering of the
Leviticus 4
Leviticus 4:3
Unto the LORD -- The price was paid to Jehovah, not to

Satan. E449
Not paid as a price, but merely laid in the hands of divine
justice as a deposit. Eii
Leviticus 4:7

Altar of sweet Incense -- The golden altar, type of The
Christ. T120
Altar of the burnt offering -- Representing Christ's
ransom sacrifice. T22
Leviticus 4:8
All the fat -- Symbol of loving zeal. T57
Leviticus 4:9
The two kidneys -- Representing the best powers of the

offerer. T45
Leviticus 4:27
And if any one -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being. E334

Leviticus 4:35
Unto the LORD -- Jehovah, to whom the price was paid.

E449
And the priest -- Typifying Christ. E449
Leviticus 5
Leviticus 5:2
Or if a soul -- Being, person. R205:1
Leviticus 5:4
Or if a soul -- Being, person. R205:1
Leviticus 5:11
Frankincense -- Representing praise. R3703:4
Leviticus 5:12
And the priest -- Typifying Christ. E449

Unto the LORD -- Unto Jehovah, to whom the price was
paid. E449
Leviticus 5:15
If a soul -- Being, person. R205:2

Typifying any of the world of mankind during the Millennial
age. T99
Leviticus 5:16
Fifth part thereto -- Twenty percent interest. T99

Unto the priest -- Representing that during the Millennial
age the acknowledgement of wrong doing will be made
through the Redeemer. T99, T100
Leviticus 6
Leviticus 6:2
If a soul -- Typifying any of the world of mankind during

the Millennial age. T99
Leviticus 6:5
Fifth part more -- Restoration of the principal, with 20%

added. T99
Showing retributive justice. R722:6, R2613:5
Showing that the heart has been touched and wishes to stand
right with God and man. R747:6
Leviticus 6:6
Trespass offering -- Type of repentance, recognition of

imperfection and restitution for wrongs committed. T99
Leviticus 6:7
Make an atonement -- An illustration of the arrangement

in the age to come--the people will come to The Christ, Head
and Body. CR486:1
Leviticus 6:9
Fire of the altar -- Begun on the Day of Atonement,

representing the sacrifices of the Gospel age. T97
Leviticus 6:13
Never go out -- Typifying that the altar was already

sanctified because of God's acceptance of the Atonement Day
sacrifices. T97
Consecration is complete and continuous. R101:1*
Leviticus 6:14
The meat offering -- Probably offerings of praise and

worship. T98
Before the LORD -- To show that it is approved by
Jehovah. T99
Leviticus 6:15
Frankincense -- Representing praise, heart adoration,
gratitude. R3703:5
Leviticus 6:16
In the court -- Showing that "holy place" can refer to the

court. R178:3*
They shall eat it -- Showing that the world's praise and
worship will be offered to Jehovah through The Christ. T98
Leviticus 6:17
With leaven -- Symbol of corruption, error, sin. T98:

F464
Leviticus 6:27
In the holy place -- In the Court. T13
Leviticus 6:29
All the males -- He gave indeed male apostles, male

prophets, male evangelists and male pastors and teachers.
(Eph. 4:11) T102
"I suffer not a woman to teach." (1 Tim. 2:12) T102
Leviticus 6:30
No sin offering -- The offerings of the Atonement Day

were always burned, but the later trespass offerings after the
Day of Atonement were not burned. T100
Leviticus 7
Leviticus 7:1
Trespass offering -- By the world of mankind in the

Millennial age; typifying repentance, recognition of
imperfection and restitution of wrongs. T99
Leviticus 7:5
Shall burn them -- A portion of the offering. T99

world during the millennial age will be acceptable because of
Unto the LORD -- As a recognition that the whole plan of
redemption as executed during the Gospel age was the
Heavenly Father's. T99
Leviticus 7:6
Shall eat thereof -- Typifying acceptance by the Royal

Priesthood during the Millennial age of the gifts and
consecrations of wrong-doers and their forgiveness. "Whose
soever sins ye remit they are remitted unto them, and whose
soever sins ye retain, to them they are retained." (John 20:23)
Even now, when we see the conditions fulfilled, we may say,
"Thy sins be forgiven thee." (Mark 2:5,9) T100
Leviticus 7:9
The meat offering -- Representing offerings of praise and

worship by mankind during the Millennial age. T98
Be the priest's -- Showing that the praise and worship
will be offered to Jehovah through The Christ. T98
Leviticus 7:11
Of peace offerings -- Representing vows of consecration

to the Lord made by the world of mankind during the
Millennial age. T98
Leviticus 7:12
Unleavened cakes -- Representing the offerer's faith in

Christ's character, which he will copy. T98
Leviticus 7:13
Leavened bread -- Indicating his acknowledgment of his

own imperfection at the time of consecration, leaven being a
type of sin. T98
Leviticus 7:15
Shall be eaten -- By the offerer; showing that in the

Millennium all must eat or fulfill a covenant of consecration
to God or be cut off in the Second Death. T98
Leviticus 7:16
Be a vow -- Consecration, as the result of a vow. T98
Leviticus 7:21
Shall be cut off -- In death, typifying the Second Death.

T98
Leviticus 7:29
Peace offerings -- Typifying covenants of consecration to

the Lord made by the world of mankind during the Millennial
age. T98
Leviticus 7:30
His own hands -- The consecration must be a personal

matter. T98
For a wave offering -- Representing that consecration is
not for a moment, or a day, or a year, but forever. T45
Leviticus 7:31
Shall burn the fat -- Symbol of loving zeal. T57

Shall be Aaron's -- Showing that the consecration will be
offered to Jehovah through The Christ. T98
Leviticus 8
Leviticus 8:2
Take Aaron -- Type of the man Christ Jesus as a New

Creature. T41
The Aaronic priesthood pictures the sufferings of Christ.
R4759:3
And his sons -- Type of the Church in the flesh, New
Creatures. T39
And the anointing oil -- Type of the holy Spirit. T29
And a bullock -- Representing the earthly nature of Jesus
and the Church, his Body. T41
And two rams -- The ram for the burnt offering to show
how God receives our sacrifice, and the ram of consecration
to show what effect the sacrifice will have upon us. T45
Unleavened bread -- Representing the actual purity of
Jesus as a man and the imputed purity of the Church. T46
Leviticus 8:6
And washed them -- To represent the purity of Jesus, our

High Priest, "who knew no sin." (2 Cor. 5:21) T29
Leviticus 8:7
The coat -- Of linen, representing Christ's righteousness.

T29
With the girdle -- Representing servitude. T30
With the robe -- Of blue, representing Christ's
faithfulness. T30
And put the ephod -- Typifying the Abrahamic and New
covenants. T30
The curious girdle -- Representing a servant,
"Messenger." T33
Of the ephod -- Covenant; hence the girdle of the ephod
speaks of "The Messenger of the Covenant." (Mal. 3:1) T33
Leviticus 8:8
The breastplate -- Representing the Law. T34
Leviticus 8:9
The holy crown -- Representing the power to rule. B83
Leviticus 8:11
The laver -- Aaron had to be washed in order fitly to

represent the purity of Jesus. T29
Symbolizing a cleansing of the flesh. Putting away all
filthiness of the flesh and spirit. R3054:1, R1543:6,
R5959:5
Leviticus 8:12
The anointing oil -- Typifying the holy Spirit of adoption.

T29
A peace-producing and light-giving influence. SM606:3
The Lord Jesus, Head of the anointed Body, received the
anointing at his baptism. SM598:3
His followers are anointed for the priestly service of
sacrificing now. SM606:3, SM601:T
And for the glorious service of the future as kings with our
Lord. SM606:3, SM605:1
The same oil was used for the anointing of kings. SM601:T
Upon Aaron's head -- Only the High Priest was anointed.
Only those who are in Christ partake of his anointing. T37
Leviticus 8:13
Brought Aaron's sons -- Not his daughters; women were

debarred from the priesthood, from public ministry. F265
Put coats upon them -- Linen garments representing the
righteousness of Jesus imputed to us. T36
With girdles -- Representing us as servants of
righteousness. T36
Bonnets upon them -- Upon the under-priests representing
that Christ is our Head. T36; R135:1, R270:6
Leviticus 8:14
Laid their hands -- Thus saying, this sacrifice represents

us. T41
Leviticus 8:15
And he -- Moses, representing the Law. T41

Slew it -- To meet the demands of the Law against Israel,
typical of the world of mankind in general. T41
Took the blood -- Representing the life given. T42
Upon the horns -- Horns are the symbol of power. T42
Of the altar -- Representing the finger of the Lord as
pointing out that the altar of earthly sacrifices is acceptable to
God by reason of the shed blood, and that all who realize the
power of the altar must first recognize the blood which
sanctifies it. T42
Bottom of the altar -- Upon the ground, to represent that
through the blood of the sacrifice even the earth was
purchased back from the curse. T42
Leviticus 8:16
He took all the fat -- Symbol of loving zeal. T57

The two kidneys -- Representing our best powers. T45
Burned it -- Representing steady, continuous submission
to the fiery ordeal of suffering. T71
Upon the altar -- Showing that God accepts the heart
devotion which prompts the sacrifice. T42
Leviticus 8:17
And his dung -- We are the filth and offscourings of the

earth. T62
He burnt with fire -- Representing the destruction to
which mankind was doomed. T42
Without the camp -- As a vile thing in the eyes of the
world. T42
"Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing
his reproach." (Heb. 13:13) T62
Leviticus 8:18
Brought the ram -- The one to show how God receives

our sacrifice. T45
Aaron and his sons -- Representing the new spiritual
nature of Christ and his Church while still in the flesh. T41
Laid their hands -- Indicating that it represented them.
T42
Leviticus 8:19
Leviticus 8:20
Burnt the head -- Representing the Lord Jesus, who was

first laid on the altar of sacrifice. T45
And the pieces -- Representing the members of Christ's
Body. T45
And the fat -- Symbol of loving zeal. T57
Leviticus 8:21
Washed the inwards -- Representing the washing of water

through the Word. T45
Burnt the whole ram -- Representing the steady
submission to fiery trials. T71
For a sweet savour -- Showing how God accepts the
sacrifice. T45
Leviticus 8:22
The other ram -- To show the effect the sacrifice

has on us. T45
Aaron and his sons -- Representing the new nature of
Christ. T41
Laid their hands -- Indicating that it represented them.
T42
Leviticus 8:23

Took of the blood -- Representing the consecrated life.
T45
Of Aaron's right ear -- By consecration we get the
hearing of faith. T45
Of his right hand -- Our consecration impels us to do with
our might what our hands find to do. T45
Of his right foot -- We walk not as other Gentiles, but
walk in newness of life, walk by faith, walk in the Spirit, walk
in the light, and walk in Christ. T45
Leviticus 8:24
Aaron's sons -- Showing that our consecration is an

individual work. T45
Leviticus 8:25
And he took the fat -- Symbol of loving zeal. T57

The two kidneys -- Representing our best powers. T45
Leviticus 8:26
He -- Moses, representing the Law. T46

One unleavened cake -- Representing the actual purity of
Jesus as a man proclaiming that the righteousness of the Law
is fulfilled in us who walk not after the flesh but after the
Spirit; justification. (Rom. 8:4) T46
Cake of oiled bread -- Representing the indwelling spirit
of God--sanctification. T46
Leviticus 8:27
For a wave offering -- Typifying that a consecrated

offering is not given for a limited time, but is offered
continually, never ceasing until we have finished our course.
T45
Leviticus 8:28
Off their hands -- They did not lay them down, and so we
may not cease to offer all our powers in God's service until
they are all consumed. T46
Leviticus 8:30
The anointing oil -- Typifying the holy Spirit of adoption.

T29
And of the blood -- Representing the precious blood of our
Redeemer. T46
And sprinkled it -- Showing that we are accepted in the
Beloved only. T46
Leviticus 8:31
Boil the flesh -- Preparatory to eating; this is not a type.

T47
Leviticus 8:32
Burn with fire -- Showing that we are to be completely

and entirely consumed; none of our time and power wasted.
T47
Leviticus 8:33
Seven days -- We are consecrated to God's service for all

our time. T47
Leviticus 9
Leviticus 9:1
Came to pass -- The 9th chapter relates to the consecration

of the priests; to be repeated in the case of every priest who
attained to the office of High Priest. R5391:2
Leviticus 9:2
Said unto Aaron -- Representing Jesus, our High Priest.

E449; T79, T80
This offering was in connection with the consecration of the
priest, showing how the bullock and the goat must die. Q26:1
A young calf -- A young bullock, representing the
humanity of Jesus, our Redeemer. T51, T79, T80
For a sin offering -- "Thou shalt make his soul an offering
for sin." (Isa. 53:10) T52
Before the LORD -- Before Jehovah, to whom the price
was paid. E449
Leviticus 9:7
For thyself -- The sons of Aaron considered as the

members, or body, of the High Priest. Q551:3
Those to be called to be members of the Body of Christ
required it. T79
And for the people -- Representing the world of mankind.
T79; R5777:1
Atonement for them -- Showing that the Church's share in
the atonement could have been dispensed with entirely. T79
Leviticus 9:8
And slew the calf -- The young bullock, representing Jesus

at the age of thirty years. T51, T79, T80
Was for himself -- Was instead of, or a substitute for,
himself. T80
Leviticus 9:9
Sons of Aaron -- All who will be priests will recognize the

value of the blood of Jesus. R96:2
In the blood -- Representing the life given. T42
Of the altar -- Those who realize the power of the altar
must first recognize the blood which sanctifies it. T42
Typical of the power of the altar, attained only by blood.
R96:1
Bottom of the altar -- Upon the qround, showing that
through the blood of the sacrifice even the earth was
purchased back from the curse. T42
Leviticus 9:10
But the fat -- Symbol of Christ's loving zeal. T57

And the kidneys -- Representing our best powers. T45
The inward and outward affections of Jesus not condemned in
man and not part of the ransom. R96:2
Caul -- Representing bitter experience connected with
sacrifice. R96:2
He burnt -- Representing his steady, continuous
submission to the fiery ordeal of suffering. T71
Upon the altar -- Showing that God accepted the heart
devotion which prompted his sacrifice. T42
Leviticus 9:11
He burnt with fire -- Representing the destruction to

which mankind was doomed. T42
world. T42
"Let us go therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his
reproach." (Heb. 13:13) T62
A two-fold life; in the world but not of it. Q687:6
Leviticus 9:12
The burnt offering -- Showing how God received the

sacrifice. T45
Leviticus 9:13
The pieces thereof -- Representing the members of

Christ's Body. T45
And the head -- Representing Jesus. T81
Burnt them upon the altar -- Thus, as the members of his
Body have one by one been laid to the Head, the offering of
Jesus has been burning throughout this Gospel age, giving
evidence to all the justified of God's acceptance of him, and
the acceptance of all the members of his Body. T81
Leviticus 9:14
Wash the inwards -- Representing the washing of water

by the Word. T45
Leviticus 9:15
And took the goat -- The Lord's goat, the scapegoat being
omitted from this picture. T81
For the people -- Not for the priests and Levites, like the
sacrifice of the bullock. T81
Slew It -- Indicating that the sacrifice of Christ and his
followers was necessary to attain the kingly priesthood.
OV106:3
Leviticus 9:18
Of peace offerings -- Representing the vows, obligations

and covenants assumed by the Christ company, based upon
acceptance of the sin-offering. T81
Was for the people -- Foreshadowing the blessing of the
world in the Times of Restitution. T82
Leviticus 9:21
For a wave offering -- Representing that consecration is

not for a moment, or a day, or a year, but forever. T45
Leviticus 9:22
And blessed them -- Picturing the blessings of all who will

become true Israelites during the Messianic reign. PD36/47
Also the blessings, more or less pronounced, which during the
Gospel age flow from the Royal Priesthood to their neighbors.
T82; R96:6
Leviticus 9:23
And Moses -- Representing the Law. T83; Q5:2; R96:5

The Mediator. R4504:5
And Aaron -- The complete Priest (Head and Body). T82;
Q5:2
Went -- When the Church leaves the world, law and order
leave also, producing anarchy and confusion. R96:6
Into the tabernacle -- When all the sacrifices are ended--
the close of the Gospel age. R96:4
Into God's presence; showing that the Law is fully satisfied
and its righteousness vindicated in the sacrifice of Christ and
also that those under the Law were typically justified. T83
Representing the change to a new nature. SM144:1
Here the Aaronic priesthood ends and the Melchizedek
priesthood begins. R96:4
And came out -- Representing the second advent of Christ.
T83
Showing the return of law and order at the close of the day of
wrath. R96:6
Blessed the people -- Picturing the blessing of all the
families of the earth during the Millennial age. T83
After the Church has been glorified. Q167:1
By the Melchizedek priest. SM144:1
And the glory -- "The glory of the Lord shall be revealed
and all flesh shall see it together." (Isa. 40:5) T83
Appeared -- "When Christ who is our life shall appear,
then shall we also appear with him in glory." (Col. 3:4) T85
Unto all the people -- "Unto those that look for him shall
he appear the second time, not as a sin offering, but unto
salvation." (Heb. 9:28) T84
Leviticus 9:24
There came a fire -- Showing God's acceptance of the

sacrifice of the great Day of Atonement. T89
All the people -- Representing the whole world, living and
dead, under condemnation. T90
Saw -- Showing that the world during the Millennial age
will realize the value of Christ's sacrifice as the price of their
release from death. T89
Fell on their faces -- Picturing the coming worship of
Jehovah and The Christ. T89, PD36/47
The work of Christ during the thousand years will be to uplift
mankind, giving them the benefit of the Atonement sacrifice.
R5656:1
Leviticus 10
Leviticus 10:1
And Nadab -- Meaning "self-acting," typifying the class

that goes into Second Death because of self will. R4031.2
And Abihu -- Meaning "Son of God," typifying the Great
Company. R4031:2
Possibly the Second Death. Q300:5, Q301:1
The sons of Aaron -- Both being probably intoxicated at
the time. R4031:4
Put incense thereon -- The true incense represents the
perfections of the Lord Jesus. R3055:4
Offered strange fire -- Strange incense the Lord does not
authorize or approve. R1837:1
Typifying that a continued offering of error would imply that
we would ultimately fail to reach the glorious priesthood.
R4031:5
Commanded them not -- "Keep back thy servant also
from presumptuous sins." (Psa. 19:13) R1836:6
Leviticus 10:2
There went out fire -- Probably a lightning stroke.

R1837:1
And devoured them -- Representing their cutting off from
the priesthood. T40
And they died -- This does not mean that they were
consigned to eternal torment. R3056:2
Leviticus 10:3
And Aaron -- Typifying Christ, the High Priest of our

profession. R1836:6
Leviticus 10:6
Neither rend your clothes -- Showing that the Royal

Priesthood are not to lament over those who fail to make their
calling and election sure. T40; Q498:7, Q499:2; R3760:6
The burning -- The death. R1837:2
Leviticus 10:7
Shall not go out -- To follow after and lament the dead

ones. R1837:4
Of the tabernacle -- The place of communion with God.
R1837:4
The anointing oil -- Representing the holy Spirit. T38
Is upon you -- You are consecrated to full submission and
obedience to the will of God. R1837:4
Did according -- All who are loyal to God will approve his
righteous judgments. R1837:4
Leviticus 10:9
Do not drink wine -- Indicating that the death of Nadab

and Abihu was due to the fact that their offering was made
while they were intoxicated. R3054:3
Nor strong drink -- We are not to approach the Lord
while intoxicated with the spirit of the world or Babylon.
R3055:4
Statistics show that 72% of all criminals were made so by
strong drink. R3055:1
Leviticus 10:12
Without leaven -- Symbol of corruption, error, sin. T98;

F464
Leviticus 11
Leviticus 11:10
Of any living thing -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being, as of

man. E335
Leviticus 11:46

man. E334
Leviticus 13
Leviticus 13:2
When a man -- Typifying any man in the Millennial age.

R2722:2
Plague of leprosy -- Representing sin and its loathsome,
contagious and consuming character. R2722:1
Aaron the priest -- Typifying Christ Jesus. R2722:2
His sons the priests -- Typifying the Royal Priesthood, the
faithful underpriests. R2722:2
Leviticus 13:3
A plague of leprosy -- Under the Mosaic Law leprosy

seems to be indicated as a special type of sin. HG721:2
Leviticus 14
Leviticus 14:3
In the leper -- Typifying a cleansed sinner in the

Millennial age. R2722:2
Leviticus 14:4
And cedar wood -- Representing everlasting human life.

T109
And scarlet -- Representing the blood of the ransom. T34,
T109
And hyssop -- Representing purging, cleansing. T109
Leviticus 14:12
A trespass offering -- Typifying Millennial age

repentance, recognition of imperfection and restitution for
wrongs. T99
For a wave offering -- Showing that the vows to the Lord
are not for a moment, or a day or a year, but forever. T45
Leviticus 14:13
In the holy place -- In the court. T13
Leviticus 14:14
Of the right ear -- Representing the hearing of faith. T45

Of his right hand -- Representing joyful, zealous service.
T45
Of his right foot -- Representing walking with God. T45
Leviticus 16
Leviticus 16:2
Aaron thy brother -- Representing The Christ, Head and

Body. T51
Into the holy -- The Most Holy. T58, T13
Within the veil -- Symbol of the death of the human body.
T21, T22
The mercy seat -- Which, with its cherubim and glory-light,
represented Jehovah. T124
Upon the ark -- Type of The Christ. T121
That he die not -- Had our Lord failed at any point in his
sacrificial work it would have meant his own destruction.
"He was heard in that he feared." (Heb. 5:7) R1806:4
Leviticus 16:3
A young bullock -- Representing the perfect man, Christ

Jesus, at the age of thirty years. T51; PD36/47
For a sin offering -- "Thou shalt make his soul an offering
for sin." (Isa. 53:10) T52; Q696:3
A burnt offering -- To show how God received the
sacrifice. T45
Leviticus 16:4
The holy linen coat -- Representing the righteousness of

the saints; an earnest of the glorious robe to follow. T55
Aaron clothed in the linen coat represented our Lord as a
spirit-begotten New Creature during his 3 1/2 years of
sacrifice. R5580:1
A linen girdle -- Representing servitude. T30
The linen mitre -- To which the crown, proclaiming his
royalty, was fastened after the sacrificing work was finished.
T29, T30
Wash his flesh -- Representing the sinlessness of the New
Creation, Head and Body. T54
Leviticus 16:5
Of the congregation -- Representing the Church taken out

of the world. Q677:2; R4427:1
Two kids of the goats -- Representing all who fully
consecrate their lives even unto death, to God's service,
during the Gospel age. T59
Leviticus 16:6
Aaron shall offer -- Type of Christ's own death. R5972:6,

R5847:1
The High Priest offered himself at Jordan and finished the
sacrifice at Calvary. R4537:5
Even if the world had not needed to be redeemed from sin,
the Priest must have given the same sacrifice exactly, in order
to attain his high position.
R5391:5
His bullock -- The bullock represented our Lord as a man.
R4427:1, R4397:3, R4747:3, R5731:1; Q265:T
Of the sin offering -- Merely for Adam's sin and all
weaknesses and imperfections resulting from it. R5873:6
Which is for -- Which represents. T55; R4427:1,
R5720:4
Himself -- For the members of his Body, the underpriests.
T55; R4397:3, R5972:6; Q551:3
And for his house -- All believers, the entire household of
faith, the Levites. T55
The Levites, household of faith, Great Company. R4397:3,
R4427:6, R4546:2, R5196:5, R5972:6
None of the merit of the Redeemer's sacrifice is applied
outside the household of faith on the Atonement Day.
R3708:5
Leviticus 16:7
The two goats -- Typical of the consecrated Church of the

Gospel age, the household of faith. R4035:4, R4427:5, 1
From the camp; the Lord's consecrated people are at first
"sinners even as others." (Eph. 2:3; 1 Cor. 6:9-11) T59;
R4427:1
Present them -- Picture of the followers of Jesus
presenting themselves as living sacrifices. Q614:1
At the door -- Representing their desire to become dead
with their Redeemer as human beings, and to enter the
heavenly conditions as he did. T60
Leviticus 16:8
Cast lots -- God does not arbitrarily determine which of

the consecrated shall become partakers of the divine nature.
T61; R4035:5, R4427:5
For the LORD -- This goat represented the members of
the Body of the High Priest. R4427:5
For the scapegoat -- Heb., for Azazel, the prince of
darkness; a reference to the class delivered over to Satan for
the destruction of the flesh. R4035:6, R4427:5
These will be the servants of the glorified Priest. R4546:4
Leviticus 16:9
The goat -- Represented the consecrated human being.

R4747:3
The LORD'S lot fell -- Representing those who do really
follow in Christ's footsteps, as he has set us an example. T60;
R5196:5, R5873:5
The Lord's adopted members. R4397:6
And offer him -- But not the scapegoat. T59
Leviticus 16:10
The scapegoat -- Representing the consecrated followers

of the Lord who through fear of the sacrificial death are all
their lifetime subject to bondage. (Heb. 2:15) T60; R5196:5,
R5873:5; Q631:T
Make an atonement -- The scapegoat class will have a
secondary part in the expiation of sin by having their
sufferings applied as atonement for certain willful sins of the
world--not Adamic sin. Q632:6; R4036:2, R4428:5,
R4652:2, R4864:6, R5463:6
Leviticus 16:11
Aaron -- The priest represented our Lord, the New

Creature. R5621:6
The bullock -- Type of the man Jesus, his human life.
R5325:5, R5580:1, R1829:2; Q631:3
For himself -- The members of his Body--the underpriests.
T55; R4352:3, R4511:3, R4619:5, R4965:5 R5196:5,
R5777:1
And his house -- All believers, the household of faith, the
Levites. T55; R4352:3
The Levites, household of faith, Great Company. R4427:6,
R5972:6, R4546:2
Kill the bullock -- Represented our Lord at Jordan, dead as
a man and alive as a New Creature. R4877:1, R5080:5;
Q660:1; T56
Of the sin offering -- In antitype, the offering for sin
began when Jesus presented himself at Jordan. R5880:4,
R4505:5, R4389:3
Leviticus 16:12
And he -- Aaron. The New Creature Jesus ministered in

the Holy while his human nature was sacrificed on the altar in
the Court, and his body burned outside the camp. R5325:5
Coals of fire -- Destructive influences, circumstances and
conditions which the Father provides for the purpose of
proving the character, loyalty and genuineness of our
devotion. R4602:5,3; Q278:2, 1, Q27:5
The altar -- The Brazen altar, in the Court. T56;
R5961:3*
His hands full -- Representing our Lord's full capacity and
ability of righteousness, required and yielded. T56
Incense beaten small -- Powdered; representing the
perfections of the man Christ Jesus; his best endeavors. T56
Long prayers made to be heard of men "have their reward"
and never reach the golden censer before the throne. HG52:2
Bring -- According to Profs. Young and Strong, "to cause
to come in" or "to send." R5961:3*
It -- Singular, referring to the incense and not to the
censer. R5961:3*
Within the vail -- The first veil or door; representing the
death of the human will. T22, T55
The second veil, between the Holy and Most Holy. R5961:3*
Leviticus 16:13
Upon the fire -- Of the Golden altar, the Church. T120

Representing the fiery trials of our Lord. T56
Cloud of the incense -- Penetrating beyond the second
veil. T55
Representing the perfect obedience and glorious qualities of
Jesus as he came into contact with the trials of life, yielding a
sweet perfume. R5731:1, R4602:6; PD36/47; T56; Q278:2
The divine view of the sacrifice of Christ during the three and
a half years of his ministry. R4427:3; CR486:3
The incense preceding the High Priest beyond the veil would
testify that he had faithfully fulfilled the required conditions.
Q693:4; R4868:4
Jesus could not have entered the glory beyond unless he had
finished his sacrifice and offerings. Q28:1
The mercy seat -- "The Propitiatory," representing
Jehovah's justice. T124
Upon the testimony -- Covers the Law. T55
That he die not -- By infracting the conditions upon which
alone he may come into the divine presence acceptably. T55;
Q693:4; R5712:5
Leviticus 16:14
Take of the blood -- Typical of the blood of the

Atonement, the price of our redemption. T59; R4352:3
The blood signifies the life of the sacrifice. The blood itself
is a symbol of death. R5621:6, R4876:3; Q695:3
The blood of the bullock was applied only for the priests and
Levites. R5622:1
Upon the mercy seat -- Or more properly, the
Propitiatory, because on it the priest offered the blood of the
sacrifices which propitiated or satisfied the demands of divine
justice. T124
A symbol of Jesus presenting his sacrificial merit to the
Heavenly Father on behalf of the Church class. R5880:5;
PD36/47
The Mercy Seat with its cherubim and glory-light represented
Jehovah, the presence of God, where Christ went "there to
appear in the presence of God for us." (Heb. 9:24). T59,
T124
Eastward; and before -- In the form of a cross. T63;
Q28:T
Seven times -- Perfectly. T61
Leviticus 16:15
Then -- Jesus began his secondary offering of his

"members" as soon as the Father accepted his offering for us--
at Pentecost. R4512:4, R4505:5; T64
Nothing could be done with the Lord's goat until the sacrifice
of the bullock was completed. R4035:2;
PD36/47
Kill the goat -- Representing the sacrificing followers of
the Lord who are faithful to their covenant. T61; R4354:1,
R4965:5, R5622:1, R5731:1; Q660:1
The putting to death of the depraved will, the crucifixion of
ourselves as men. T64; R5778:1
Our Lord offered the goat, his second sacrifice, at Pentecost,
and the work has progressed ever since. R4546:4, R5720:4
We do not sacrifice ourselves. R4747:3
The High Priest slays the goat, making it part of his sacrifice.
Q700:2
This act represents God's acceptance of your consecration.
Q414:T
The moment he accepts you he justifies you. Q420
A goat is very lean compared with a bullock, showing that our
Lord had much more of love and zeal. T61; R4035:2
Of the sin offering -- "Filling up that which is behind of
the afflictions of Christ." (Col. 1:24) T66; R5777:1
The killing of the sin-offering was not ended until the goat
was slain. R5880:4; Q660:1
For the people -- The sacrifice of the Lord's goat is
accepted on behalf of the world, just as that of Christ is
accepted on behalf of his Body and the household of faith.
T67; R4035:3, R4427:6, R4475:4, R4493:2, R4499:4;
SM70:T
This sacrifice of the Lord's goat by the High Priest is
acceptable to the Father only because of the merit of Jesus.
R5720:4
His blood -- The life given up. Q414:T
Within the veil -- At the close of the Gospel age.
CR485:6
Do with that blood -- The blood of his secondary
sacrifice, the Church. R4546:6
As he did -- In every particular. T61
Upon the mercy seat -- Thus satisfying justice. The
second use Christ will make of his sacrifice will be on behalf
of all the people. R5342:6, R4819:1
Leviticus 16:16
Make an atonement -- When the blood of the Lord's goat

was sprinkled upon the mercy seat the sin-offering was ended.
R5880:4
Children of Israel -- Representing all nations, kindreds
and tongues. R4397:5
Leviticus 16:17
Shall be no man -- The privileges of the true Tabernacle

belong only to those who are priests, members of the body of
the High Priest, spiritual New Creatures and no longer men.
T75
Leviticus 16:18
Upon the horns -- Symbol of power. T42

Of the altar -- All who realize the power of the altar must
first recognize the blood which sanctifies it. T42
Leviticus 16:19
And cleanse It -- Showing that the blood is full

satisfaction, and that the work of the scapegoat which
followed was no part of the sin-offering. T68
Leviticus 16:20
Reconciling -- Atonement, satisfaction, not for the Court

and Tabernacle as places, but for those people who are in
those conditions. Q689:5
The holy place -- The Most Holy. T68
The Court. Q689:5
Tabernacle -- The Holy. T68
The Holy and Most Holy. Q689:5
(Editor's Note: See Appendix D for a complete tabulation of
the Scriptural word for "Holy" and "Holy Place.")
And the altar -- In the Court. T68
The live goat -- The scapegoat, the Great Company. T68,
T69
The scapegoat dealt with thirdly seems to imply the great
tribulation of this class will come more specially at the end of
the Gospel age. Q290:T, Q690:T
Leviticus 16:21
All the iniquities -- Typifying, not Adamic guilt and

condemnation, which were all figuratively canceled by the
sacrifice of the bullock and the Lord's goat, but other sins of
measurable willfulness committed against light and
knowledge. R4015:3, R4036:2, R4856:2, R5256:4,
R5462:5; Q632:6
See also comments on (Leviticus 16:10).
Children of Israel - Typical of the world of mankind. T68;

R5463:2
Send him away - Not sacrificed at all, hence not a
sin-offering. Q632:6
A fit man - Anyone convenient; unfavorable circumstances.
T68, T70
Into the wilderness - Shows how the Great Company is
turned over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh. (1 Cor.
5:5). Q24:3
Condition of separation from the world. T70
Severe testings which will demonstrate their character
definitely. R4654:4
Leviticus 16:22
Let go the goat -- To die unwillingly, "that the spirit may

be saved in the day of the Lord." (1 Cor. 5:5), T71
The scapegoat did not go voluntarily, it was sent away.
R5628:3
Leviticus 16:23
Into the tabernacle -- The Holy. T72

Linen garments -- Representing the merit of Christ
imputed to us. Q285:5
Into the holy place -- The Most Holy. T72
Leviticus 16:24
Wash his flesh -- Signifying the completion of the

cleansing which comes when the Body is made perfect in
glory. T74; PD36/47
In the holy place -- The Court. T72
Put on his garments -- His usual garments of glory and
beauty. T72
Representing our Lord after his resurrection to the divine
nature. R5580:1
Although Jesus has passed beyond the vail he is still in the
linen garments of sacrifice. Q285:2
His burnt offering -- A ram, representing God's
acceptance of the sacrifice of the bullock. T73
God will not manifest his acceptance of the better sacrifices
until the sacrifices for sins are complete and The Christ is
glorified. T73
Of the people -- Another ram, representing God's
acceptance of the sacrifice of the Lord's goat. T73
Make an atonement -- Another illustration of the
Atonement. T72
For himself -- The Body, the Church, the Little Flock.
T72; R4384:6
For the people -- For the sins of all the people. R4384:6
Leviticus 16:25
And the fat -- Symbol of loving zeal. T57

When offered, made a great smoke, showing our Lord's heart
devotion to the Heavenly Father. CR486:2; Q28:2
Shall he burn -- Representing steady continuous
submission to the fiery ordeal of suffering. T71
Upon the altar -- Showing that God accepts the heart
devotion which prompts the sacrifice. T42
Seen and appreciated by all within the antitypical Court--
justified believers. CR486:3
Leviticus 16:26
And he -- Representing the classes instrumental in

bringing the trouble and destruction of the flesh upon the
Great Company. T75
Come Into the camp -- Into the same condition as the rest
of the world. T75
Leviticus 16:27
Atonement -- Prefigured the reconciliation of God and

mankind. R5196:5
world. T42, T57; R4427:4
As a stench in their nostrils. CR486:3; Q28:2; R3708:4
Signifying ostracism, rejection of men and dishonor. R4385:1
The nominal church. R246:4
"Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp bearing
his reproach." (Heb. 13:13) T62
Burn in the fire -- Representing the gradual, but complete,
destruction of the human nature of Christ and the Church.
T42; R4385:1
The slandering of God's people for righteousness' sake.
R5655:5
And their dung -- We are the filth and offscourings of the
earth. (1 Cor. 4:13) T62
Leviticus 16:28
And he -- Representing those principally instrumental in

reproaching, reviling and destroying the humanity of Jesus
and the Church. T75
Come Into the camp -- Into the same condition as the rest
of the world, without special punishment. T75
Leviticus 16:29
Afflict your souls -- Typical of the world's painful and

afflicted condition during sin's domination. R147:5
Leviticus 16:30
Atonement for you -- Typically canceling the Adamic

condemnation for the coming year, not the preceding one.
R4034:3
Antitype started with Jesus and his sacrifice, continues with
the Church sharing with Christ in his sacrifice and in the
fullest sense continues to the end of the Millennium. Q26:9
Inappropriate now because there is neither Temple nor
Tabernacle. R679:1
Leviticus 16:33
For all the people -- When Christ shall in the end of this
age antitypically sprinkle the Mercy Seat it will be for the
world. R4587:4
Leviticus 16:34
Once a year -- The type was repeated annually because

the blood of bulls and goats could never take away sin. (Heb.
10:3,4) R4034:3, R5293:4
The Day of Atonement in the antitype is the entire Gospel
age. T50, T76
All of the Millennial age will be a part of the antitypical
Atonement Day. R5874:5
Leviticus 17
Leviticus 17:4
Unto the door -- With the Temple desecrated God closed

the way for Jews to carry out the atonement sacrifices.
R3454:5*; OV104:4
Leviticus 17:5
For peace offerings -- Representing vows of consecration

to God made by the world during the Millennial age. T98
Leviticus 17:6
And burn the fat -- Symbol of loving zeal. T57; R4602:4
Leviticus 17:11
Is in the blood -- Is represented by the blood. E325

As long as the blood is passing through the organs of
circulation there is life. R5341:6
Blood that maketh an atonement -- The giving up of
Jesus' pre-existent life was bloodless; therefore not the
atonement. R1298:6
Leviticus 17:12
No soul ... eat blood -- In this way God would seem to say
that life is a very sacred thing. R5341:6
Leviticus 18
Leviticus 18:5
Which if a man do -- Perfectly. R2728:2

Which no imperfect man could do, but which the Lord Jesus
did do. R1725:2, R5046:2
Shall live In them -- Have everlasting life as a result.
R2728:2, R4595:2, R5128:1, R5285:5; OV118:2
Live under proper conditions. Q370:4, Q197:T
The man Christ Jesus was the one for whom this provision
was made. R5046:3, R5342:4
Leviticus 18:18
Beside the other -- Law against polygamy. R2016:3
Leviticus 18:21
To Molech -- Type of the misrepresentation of God,

worshipped by those who endorse the eternal torment theory.
R2360:1, R3464:6
Leviticus 18:23
It is confusion -- God prohibits any mixture or blending of

natures, including human with angelic. HG724:6
The unlawful union of the Church of Rome (woman) with the
Roman empire (beast) resulted in Babylon (confusion).
R472:6, R45:1
Leviticus 19
Leviticus 19:3
Keep my sabbaths -- Type of the Millennial age. B40
Leviticus 19:5
Of peace offerings -- Representing vows of consecration

to God made by the world during the Millennial age. T98
At your own will -- A willing thank offering. T98
Leviticus 19:6
It shall be eaten -- By the offerer; showing that in the

Millennium all must eat or fulfill a covenant of consecration
to God or be cut off in the Second Death. T98
Leviticus 19:8
Shall be cut off -- In death, typifying the Second Death.

T98
Leviticus 19:13
Him that Is hired -- Nothing special for the priest, a

lesson in strict justice. A52, A53
Leviticus 19-14
Not curse the deaf -- But no special legislation for the

priesthood. A52
Leviticus 19:17
Thy neighbour -- If you see him violating the law;

showing that everything was not in the hands of the priests.
A55
Leviticus 19:18
As thyself -- It does not say, "Better than thyself"; Christ's

course of self-sacrifice in our behalf went beyond this
requirement. R3804:6, R5072:3
Leviticus 19:30
Keep my sabbaths -- The Jew gave God one seventh of

his time but the Christian is to give him seven-sevenths.
HG583:2*
And reverence -- A feeling of profound respect mingled
with awe and affection. R2002:3
"God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints and
to be had in reverence of all them that are about him."
(Psa.89:7) R2002:2
My sanctuary -- The sanctuary was the holy structure
through which God manifested himself to Israel. HG583:2*
The Christian finds his sanctuary wherever he is; every place
is a holy place to him. HG583:2*
Leviticus 19:31
Familiar spirits -- Communication with the fallen angels.

R2172:1
Leviticus 19:32
Hoary head -- Nothing is more beautiful in youth than

preferment and deference to riper years, especially to old age.
R2024:3
Of the old man -- But no special legislation for the
priesthood. A53
Leviticus 19:34
Love him as thyself -- The Mosaic Law was far ahead of

its time. A50
Leviticus 20
Leviticus 20:2
Unto Molech -- Type of the misrepresentation of God,

R2360:1, R3464:6
Leviticus 20:6
Familiar spirits -- Communication with fallen angels.

R2172:1
Leviticus 20:7
Sanctify yourselves -- Christ will require at least an

outward sanctification from all during the Millennial age.
F122
Leviticus 20:8
Which sanctify you -- Set you apart as holy,

uncondemned, because you have sanctified yourselves. Only
those who sanctify themselves during the Gospel age will
ever receive the crowns of glory. F122; SM581:4
A double work -- we consecrate, sanctify ourselves; God
accepts, thus sanctifies us. R441:3
Leviticus 20:10
Put to death -- Remitted in David's case because of

repentance. R2017:4
Leviticus 20:16
Be put to death -- God prohibits any mixture or blending

of natures. R1678:4
Leviticus 20:17
Shall be cut off -- The legal justification for Absalom's

killing Amnon. R2025:1
Leviticus 20:27
A familiar spirit -- Communication with fallen angels.

R2172:1
Leviticus 21
Leviticus 21:11
Any dead body -- Any living creature after death.

R2053:4
Leviticus 21:18
Superfluous -- God has predetermined the exact number of

the members of the Body of Christ; that number had
responded to the call by October 1881; since then only
replacements are accepted. C219; R2676:2
When once the Body of Christ is complete there will be no
additions "Let no man take thy crown." (Rev.3:11) T127;
R4693:2, R5532:6
Leviticus 21:20
Blemish In his eye -- Members of the Royal Priesthood

who lack clearness of vision respecting spiritual things should
not be selected for public service. F243
Leviticus 21:22
Shall eat the bread -- However great his defects, every

member of the Royal Priesthood possesses full rights at the
Lord's table. F243
Leviticus 22
Leviticus 22:11
Priest buy any soul -- Being, person. R276:3

Leviticus 23
Leviticus 23:3
But the seventh day -- Not the first day; if this

commandment is binding at all it is binding as stated and
cannot be changed. R1727:2
The sabbath of rest -- Type of the Millennial age. B40
Do no work therein -- Secular or religious. R1727:1
Leviticus 23:5
The fourteenth day -- Inasmuch as the moon had waned

for as long a time as it had increased, so Christ's death was
the turning point between two equal parts of Israel's history.
R2270:6
Leviticus 23:6
Of unleavened bread -- Represented the joy, the peace,

the blessing which resulted to the first-borns of Israel;
typifying the joy and peace which every true Christian
experiences through a realization of the passing over of his
sins through the merit of Christ. R5642:3
Seven days -- Signifying the perfection of joy and
salvation. R5192:1
Leviticus 23:11
Wave the sheaf -- The firstfruits: typifying the resurrection

of the Lord Jesus Christ, "The firstfruits of them that slept."
(1 Cor.15:20) R2271:1, R4603:4, R5191:5,6; Q586:2;
OV84:1
After the sabbath -- After the Passover feast of the 15th.
R5191:5
The 16th of Nisan; the strongest possible confirmation of the
thought that our Lord was crucified on Friday evening and
raised from the dead on Sunday morning. R2271:3,
R4603:4, R5191:6
Leviticus 23:14
Forever -- Hebrew "olam." Like the Greek "aion"

meaning "age-lasting," or "lasting to a consummation."
HG582:2*
Leviticus 23:15
From the day -- The 16th of Nisan. R2819:3

Brought the sheaf -- Typifying the resurrection of the
Lord. R2819:3
Seven sabbaths -- The Jews kept six kinds of sabbaths: the
seventh day (Exo. 31:15); the seventh week (Deut. 16:9); the
7x7 and 50th day-Pentecost (Lev. 23:15); a sabbath
beginning on the seventh month (Lev. 23:24); the seventh
year (Lev. 25:4); and the 7x7 and 50th year or jubilee. (Lev.
25:10) HG56:1
Leviticus 23:16
Fifty days -- Type of Pentecostal blessing, begetting of the

holy Spirit, fifty days after Jesus' resurrection. R5831:3
The fiftieth day, Pentecost, typifying the fiftieth or restitution
year; hence the Millennium. B175
Leviticus 23:17
Two wave loaves -- Typifying the Little Flock and the

Great Company at the time of their acceptance through the
merit of the great High Priest, indicated by the anointing of
the holy Spirit at Pentecost. R2271:1, R5191:5
Leviticus 23:27
On the tenth day -- In the fall, the beginning of the secular

year. R4384:3
Day of atonement -- These sacrifices had a cleansing
effect upon Israel and typified the better sacrifices of Christ
and the Church for all mankind. R4655:3, R4384:3;
OV250:5
The antitype ends in the fullest sense at the end of the
Millennium. Q26:9
Leviticus 24
Leviticus 24:2
Pure oil olive -- Type of the holy Spirit. T116

Beaten for the light -- Representing the spirit of truth.
T116
Leviticus 24:3
Without the vail -- Passing the second veil represents

death of the human body. T22
Shall Aaron -- Type of The Christ. T38
Leviticus 24:4
Pure candlestick -- Type of the Church as a whole. T16
Leviticus 24:5
Twelve cakes -- Representing the truth, the Word of God.

T16, T115
Leviticus 24:7
Frankincense -- Representing praise, heart adoration.

R3703:4
Leviticus 24:20
Eye for eye -- It was very necessary that these lessons of

just retribution for sin should be deeply impressed upon the
people of Israel. R5645:2; OV21:4
But we are not to apply this principle in our dealings with
fellow men. It is not the time now for us to judge and
discipline the world. R5644:5
The death of angels and archangels could never take away sin
because of the divine arrangement of a life for a life, a man
for a man. R3174:5
Leviticus 24:22
One manner of law -- In its regard for the rights and

interests of foreigners and enemies the Mosaic Law was 32
centuries ahead of its time. HG535:3; A50
Leviticus 25
Leviticus 25:1
Spake unto Moses -- The government instituted by Moses

was a model of fairness and justice, and stipulated the rights
of the stranger and the foreigner. OV10:4; OV9:4
Leviticus 25:2
Come into the land -- Not when the land is divided, but at
the expiration of the forty years in the wilderness when they
crossed Jordan. B184, B187; HG57:6
Keep a sabbath -- Observe the sabbath system; typifying
the Millennial age. B40, B184, B187
Leviticus 25:4
In the seventh year -- From entering the land. B184
Leviticus 25:8
Seven times seven years -- 7 times 7 represents a

completeness of perfection, and the fiftieth, or Jubilee
following, is climactic. R5139:6
The seventh day was a sabbath; seven times seven, 49 days,
bringing the 50th or jubilee day, Pentecost; the seventh year,
seven times seven, 49 years, bringing the 50th or jubilee year.
By squaring fifty times fifty years we get the grand cycle of
2500 years, from the time the last Jubilee was observed in 625
BC to the first year of the Times of Restitution, 1875 AD.
B175-187; R5405:5; PD48/59; OV101:1
So long as the jubilee years occurred these cycles were 50
years each; when Jubilees ceased the cycles went on, having
but 49 years. HG59:5
Leviticus 25:9
Cause the trumpet -- Silver trumpets (of truth), by the

priests; and all the people blew on ram's horns, etc. (the spirit
of liberty). OV85:3, OV101:3
Typifying the "Seventh Trumpet," the "Trump of God," the
"Last Trump." B197; OV386:1
Of the jubile -- Typifying the great jubilee of knowledge
and liberty already begun, "Times of Restitution." B199
To sound -- Turnah: "Blessed are the people that know the
joyful sound," the turnah. (Psa. 89:15) R2569:5
Ushering in the Kingdom. D617
The seventh month -- About the beginning of the Jewish
civil year, October. B187; R3574:6*
Day of atonement -- Typifying the Gospel age. R2569:5
Leviticus 25:10
The fiftieth year -- In God's arrangement, fifty is the

greatest climax of numbers. R5139:6
Every fiftieth year was to be a jubilee year, when all debts
expired and all property was to be returned to its original
owner. PD48/59
In the beginning, it was a time of general tumult. OV85:4
Type of the great restitution, the Millennium. D617; B177,
B197; R4603:4
On a still larger scale, 7 times 7,000 years, 49,000 years,
ushers in a grand epoch when there shall be no more sighing
because God's work of creation shall have been completed.
F51
A jubile -- Typifying the "glad tidings of great joy which
shall be to all people" --Restitution. (Luke 2:10) OV118:4,
OV184:5, OV320:3; SM504:1
From the date of the last Jubilee observed by Israel (625 BC)
is 3500 years back to the year of the fall in the Garden of
Eden, and 3500 years forward to the close of the Times of
Restitution in 2874 AD. R3460:5*
Unto his possession -- The Mosaic Law, by preventing the
absolute alienation of property, thus particularly safeguarding
the interests of the poor. A50
Return every man -- Type of man's release from original
sin and the weaknesses inherited through Adam's fall.
SM504:1; CR113:6
Leviticus 25:11
Neither reap -- The rest for the land. R4779:4*

Leviticus 25:13
This jubile -- The curse of sin and death will be removed.

PD26/37 See also comments on (Lev. 25:10).
Leviticus 25:15
According to the number -- Exactly the terms of a lease.

R937:6
Leviticus 25:23
Land Is mine -- At the end of a 50-year lease all title

reverted to God, the owner. R937:5
Leviticus 25:36
No usury of him -- Of the poor, whose interests the

Mosaic Law particularly safeguarded. A50
Leviticus 25:41
Depart from thee -- During Christ's reign all are to be

freed from slavery to sin and the power of Satan. R5356:1
Leviticus 25:48
May be redeemed -- Gaal, set free by payment. E438
Leviticus 26
Leviticus 26:2
Keep my sabbaths -- Type of the Millennial age. B40
Leviticus 26:3
If ye walk -- This and the following verses typify the

conditions which will prevail in the Millennial age. F631
Leviticus 26:12
Be my people -- By their obedience to the Ten

Commandments and the spirit of their covenant they would
become God's people. R5083:2
Leviticus 26:16
Do this unto you -- Bring these calamities or evils upon

you as chastisements. A125
Inflict the national torments described in the parable of the
rich man and Lazarus. R2604:5
I will even appoint -- Only with the Israelites was
consumption specially stated to be the penalty for sin.
HG720:1
Consumption -- The white plague. HG719:2
Consumption (tuberculosis) is a disease of the blood which
afflicts more or less every part of the body. HG721:5
This disease, which literally burns up the vitality of the
patient, is highly contagious through the excrement.
HG721:1
Sin, like this disease, is highly contagious and every sinner
must strive against contaminating others. HG721:2
Cleanliness, pure air and pure, nourishing food are the most
prominent factors for the relief of consumption. HG721:1
That shall consume the eyes -- That which consumeth
before the eyes. HG719:2
Leviticus 26:17
They that hate you -- The Gentiles. HG49:4
Leviticus 26:18
For all this -- For all these previous chastisements. B88

I will punish you -- The fulfillment of the prophecy shows
that the Law covenant is still in force upon fleshly Israel.
R1730:1
With the "torments" of the parable of the rich man and
Lazarus. (Luke 16:19-31) HG386:4
Seven times -- "The times of the Gentiles" (Luke 21:24)
In Bible chronology a "time" is a symbolic year, and each
year is composed of 360 days; each year would mean 360
years; seven years would be 2520 literal years. R5721:1;
SM416:2
Seven prophetic years, a day for a year, representing 2520
years. HG49:4
Beginning 606 BC, ending 1914 AD. B79; R5047:4
Symbolic, not literal years. R4867:1; SM478:1; OV80:4;
Q84:1
A prophetic year of 360 days, used to symbolize 360 years, is
an arbitrary arrangement peculiar to its symbolic use. It is
neither a Lunar year of 354 1/3 days nor a Solar year of 365
1/4 days. A prophetic year would mean 360 actual or Solar
years. R1979:6
Illustrated by Nebuchadnezzar's seven literal years of
insanity. B90
Also, a period of disfavor to Israel. R5142:1; OV80:1,3,
OV79:2; Q356:1
Both in Dan. 4 and Lev. 26 this period of "seven times" is
four times repeated, though it refers to but one period of
seven prophetic years. HG49:3
More -- Further or additional, as a final and conclusive
punishment. B88; R4497:3
Leviticus 26:21
Seven times -- See comments on "seven times,"

Lev.26:18.
Leviticus 26:24
Yet seven times -- See comments on "seven times,"

Lev.26:18.
Leviticus 26:28
Chastise you -- Under God's disfavor. R5564:3

Seven times -- See comments on "seven times,"
Lev.26:18.
Leviticus 26:34
Enjoy her sabbaths -- "For as long as she lay desolate, she

kept sabbath to fulfill three score and ten years; (2 Chron.
36:21) representing 19 Jubilees imperfectly observed, and 51
additional Jubilees of 49 years each, or 2499 years, from the
observance of the last Jubilee (625 BC) to earth's Great
Jubilee, the Times of Restitution, October, 1874 AD. B192-195
Leviticus 26:35
Did not rest -- So the Lord provided the "rest" feature of

the Jubilee for the land when Israel went into captivity for
seventy years. R4779:4*
Leviticus 26:43
Enjoy her sabbaths -- 70 years--one for each jubilee

period from the time of entering Canaan to 1874 AD. B192-195
Leviticus 26:45
But I will -- After the "seven times" of chastisement,

which cannot therefore have been literal years, but must have
been symbolic "times" of 360 years each. B90, B92
Leviticus 26:46
By the hand of Moses -- The whole law was the law of

God, because it came from Him, and it is also all the law of
Moses in that it came through him. HG583:6
Numbers
General
The Israelites spent nearly a year at Mount Sinai before
they were ready to begin the march for the land of promise.
During that period quite a constructive work was
accomplished among them which transformed them from a
horde of comparatively unorganized emigrants into a
powerful nation with covenant relationship to God. The Law
covenant was instituted ... the priesthood was organized
... the Tabernacle constructed and its religious services
instituted ... that certainly was a year of great
accomplishments in making them ready for the land. R4037:1
The Israelites were used of the Lord as a typical people,
whose testings for good and for evil were made to picture
forth in advance the corresponding experiences of spiritual
Israel. (Brief summary follows in article) R4037:4
Numbers 1
Numbers 1:2
The sum -- 603,550 men age 20 and over; 22,273 Levites;

total of about 2 million. R4037:2
Numbers 1:46
603,550 -- We would estimate the whole population of

Israel, including females and young children, at 2,000,000.
HG362:3
A liberal estimate of the world's population at the time of the
exodus would be 14,241,744. HG362:2
Numbers 2
Numbers 2:2
By his own standard -- The human skull corresponds to

the layout of Israel's Tabernacle and camp. R4028:6,
R4029:1
The order of the tents corresponds to the transformation of the
converted mind. R4029:3
About the tabernacle -- Religion was the center of all
ambition and activity. R4028:3
All order in the church and harmony among brethren must
recognize this common center. R4028:5
Numbers 2:32
603,550 men -- Implying a total number of about

2,000,000. R3982:3, R4037:2
Prof. Petrie suggests a total number of about 30,000.
R5277:3*
Prof. Petrie's reckoning refuted by B.H. Barton. R5355:5*
Numbers 3
Numbers 3:3
Priest's -- Represented The Christ--High Priest and under

priests. R5298:6
Numbers 3:4
Nadab and Abihu -- Representing the class that sins the

sin unto death in the Gospel age and the Great Company
class. T40; R4031:2
Strange fire -- Attempting to offer our own imperfect
works as meritorious and acceptable. R1007:3
Numbers 3:6
Tribe of Levi -- Those not priests represented overcomers,

not of The Christ. R5298:6
The Great Company. R4030:4
Near -- Picturing the prominence given to benevolence,
hope, faith and conscience. R4029:4
Minister -- The Great Company, as Levites, serve before
the throne. R4677:6
Numbers 3:12
The Levites -- Separated by God for his own special use

and as a channel of blessing and instruction for the other
tribes, who represented all the families of the earth. R4389:6
The Levites did not need a Mediator because Moses
represented the entire priestly class and the tribe of Levi in his
various functions as Mediator between God and the nation.
R4390:1
Represented the first-borns of Israel, typical of the Church of
the first-born: the Bride of Christ and the Great Company.
R5056:1; Q435:7, Q304:2
The firstborn -- Represented the first-born of Israel spared
in the Passover night, and typified those passed over in the
Gospel age "night" preceding the Millennial day of general
deliverance. R4537:1, 4, R5298:6
Shall be mine -- Showing that the antitypical Levites
would not have an earthly inheritance, but a spiritual one; and
share in instructing and blessing the world. R5023:1,
R4823:5; CR471:3; Q436:2
Numbers 3:19
Amram -- Father of Moses: meaning "High People" or

"Exalted People," type of The Christ. F128
Numbers 3:25
The sons of Gershon -- Meaning "Refugees" or

"Rescued"; type of those of mankind saved during the
Millennial age. F129
The covering thereof -- Hiding spiritual things from the

unconsecrated. T127
For the door -- Typifying the death of the human will.
T22
Numbers 3:26
Of the court -- Typifying the condition of justification.

T19
Door of the court -- "I am the way" (John 14:6); "I am the
door" (John 10:9). There is only one way of access to God.
T18
And by the altar -- The Brazen altar, type of the ransom
sacrifice. T22
Numbers 3:27
And of Kohath -- Meaning "Ally" or "Comrade"; type of

the Ancient Worthies. F129
Numbers 3:29
Southward -- Symbol of restitution to human perfection.

D653
Numbers 3:33
Of Merari -- Meaning "Bitterness", type of the Great

Company, saved so as by fire through bitter experiences.
F129
Numbers 3:35
Northward -- Symbol of the Heavenly phase of the

Kingdom. D653
Numbers 3:38
Before the tabernacle -- The Royal Priesthood, at the very

gates of his favor. R4030:4
Numbers 3:41
The firstborn -- See comments on Num. 3:12.
Numbers 3:45
The firstborn -- See comments on Num. 3:12.
Numbers 3:47
Five shekels -- Redemption could only be made by an

estimated equivalent value. R1031:2*
Numbers 4
Numbers 4:2
Sons of Kohath -- Meaning "Ally" or "Comrade"; type of

the Ancient Worthies. F129
Numbers 4:3
From thirty years -- The time when a Jew became of age,

and therefore when John and Jesus began their ministries.
B58; R561:6*
No Levite was permitted to engage in the work of the
Tabernacle under the age of 30. R1161:2
Not until Jesus attained the age of 30 was he the full-grown
man, ready for sacrifice. R1682:5
Numbers 4:5
Aaron -- Type of The Christ. T38

Shall come -- This should not be misunderstood to mean
that he and the underpriests never went in thither during
succeeding days; but only once a year for the purpose of
atonement. T91
And his sons -- Representing the members of Christ's
Body. T36
The covering vail -- Type of the death of the human body.
T22
And cover the ark -- Type of The Christ. T121
Numbers 4:6
Of badgers' skins -- Typifying that spiritual things are

hidden from the unconsecrated. T127; R1365:1
Wholly of blue -- Symbol of faithfulness. T30
Numbers 4:7
Upon the table -- Type of the Church as a whole,

including Jesus. T115
Shewbread -- Representing the Word of God, spiritual
food. T115; R5621:6
Numbers 4:8
A cloth of scarlet -- Symbol of the blood of the ransom.

T34, T109
Numbers 4:9
The candlestick -- Type of the complete Church. T115

Of the light -- Type of the spirit of truth. T116
Numbers 4:11
The golden altar -- Type of the Church in the present

sacrificing condition. T120
Numbers 4:13
A purple cloth -- Symbol of royalty. T34
Numbers 4:15
Shall not touch -- None except those who are walking in

the footsteps of Jesus could have a deep, full appreciation of
the divine plan. R4876:1, R1365:1, R2002:5
Lest they die -- Because these things illustrated something
greater and more important to come later. T12
Numbers 4:20
But they -- Representing justified believers. T19

Not go in to see -- The curtains were kept down. They
were forbidden to look in when the priest lifted the curtain
and passed under it. R3053:6
Only New Creatures can enter into and see spiritual things.
R3054:1
The holy things -- Typifying the things of the New
Creature, begotten of the Spirit. T19
Numbers 4:22
The sons of Gershon -- Meaning "Refugees" or

"Rescued"; type of those of mankind saved during the
Millennium. F129
Numbers 4:25
For the door -- Typifying the death of the human will.

T22
Numbers 4:26
Of the court -- Typifying the condition of justification.

T19
Gate of the court -- "I am the way" (John 14:6); I am the
door" (John 10:9). There is only one way of access to God.
T18
And by the altar -- The Brazen altar, type of the ransom
sacrifice. T22
Numbers 4:29
The sons of Merari -- Meaning "Bitterness"; type of the

Great Company, saved so as by fire through bitter
experiences. F129
Numbers 4:36
Those that were numbered -- 17,160 Levites to 5 priests

(Exod. 28: 1), showing much larger proportion saved in next
age compared with Gospel age priests. R443:1
Numbers 4:48
Of them -- Of the Levites, representing all believers. T

118
Were 8,580 -- Of whom only five, or one in 1,716, were
sacrificing priests; possibly this is also typical. T118
Numbers 5
Numbers 5:6
When a man or woman -- Typifying any of the world of

mankind during the Millennial age. T99
Numbers 5:7
The fifth part -- In the Millennial age retributive justice

will require restoration with 20% added. T99
Numbers 5:8
Even to the priest -- Representing that during the

Millennial age the acknowledgments of wrongdoing will be
made through the Redeemer. T99, T100
Numbers 5:15
Frankincense -- Representing praise. R3703:4

Picturing relationship of Bride and Bridegroom; could not be
used when sin was in question. R84:5*
Numbers 6
Numbers 6:2
Vow of a Nazarite -- A vow to avoid spiritous liquor in

every form, and that the hair would not be cut; it should not
be confounded with the residents of the city of Nazareth. It
seems to have signified the full, complete consecration of the
individual to God and his service. R5612:3, R4088:1
Numbers 6:14
For peace offerings -- Typifying covenants of

consecration to God made by mankind during the Millennial
age. T98
Numbers 6:15
Unleavened bread -- Representing the offerer's faith in

Christ's character, which he will copy. T98
Numbers 6:20
For a wave offering -- Showing that consecration is not

for a moment or a day or a year, but continually. T45
Numbers 6:23
Speak unto Aaron -- Type of The Christ. T38

And unto his sons -- Representing the members of Christ's
Body. T36
Numbers 6:24
Bless thee and keep -- With gladness that knoweth no

decay; in the shadow of his wings. R4823:3, 6
Numbers 7
Numbers 7:7
The sons of Gershon -- Type of those saved during the

Millennium. F129
Numbers 7:8
The sons of Merari -- Type of the Great Company. F129
Numbers 7:9
The sons of Kohath -- Type of the Ancient Worthies.

F129
Upon their shoulders -- It was indirectly David's neglect
of this command that caused the death of Uzzah. R3252:5
Numbers 7:89
Off the mercy seat -- Which, with its cherubim and glory-light,
represented the presence of Jehovah. T123, T124
Upon the Ark -- Representing The Christ. T121
The two cherubims -- Representing love and power. T125
Numbers 8
Numbers 8:4
The candlestick -- Type of the complete Church. T115

Was of beaten gold -- Symbol of the divine nature. T18
Unto the flowers -- Representing the fruitfulness of the
Church. T116
Numbers 8:12
Levites -- The house of Aaron, atoned for by the bullock

of Lev. 16. R79:3
Numbers 8:17
Firstborn -- See comments on Num. 3:12.
Numbers 8:18
Levites -- The first-borns were exchanged for the tribe of

Levi, which thereafter was the tribe of the first-borns.
R4999:1
See also comments on Num. 3:12.
Numbers 8:19
Levites -- Not all priests, though they were the priestly

tribe. R4999:1
Those not priests represent the Great Company class.
CR485:6
Numbers 8:24
Wait upon the service -- Consecration to service, not to

sacrifice-a Millennial age antitype. R442:3
Numbers 9
Numbers 9:2
The passover -- Represented the sacrifice of our Lord

Jesus on behalf of the Church only. R4384:3
At his appointed season -- In the spring, the beginning of
the religious year. R4127:3, R4384:3
Numbers 9:11
The fourteenth day The full of the moon, symbol of the

Law covenant and the people under that covenant. Christ's
crucifixion at the full of the moon and its immediately
beginning to wane foreshadowed Israel's national decline.
F481
As the moon waned for as long as it had increased, so Christ's
death was the turning point between the two equal periods of
Israel's history. R2270:6
Of the second month -- Typifying the Millennial age.
R2270:6
If any miss the real communion of the Memorial because of
spiritual defilement, let them purge their hearts and celebrate
four weeks later. R3013:6
Thus appropriate to celebrate Memorial one month late if date
missed through ignorance. R1961:5
At even -- Margin: (Between the two evenings). The Jews
had two evenings: one from noon to three o'clock; and the
other from three o'clock until sunset. Christ's sacrifice was
completed at three o'clock, midway between these. R2953:2*
Between six o'clock one evening and six o'clock the next
evening. R2917:6
They shall keep it -- Typifying that those prevented by
ignorance from accepting Messiah as their Redeemer when
offered to them will have an opportunity of doing so in the
Times of Restitution when their nation, represented by the
moon, shall again be full of blessings--in the latter harvest.
R2270:6, R1289:6, R5191:3
Unleavened bread -- Symbolizing the precious promises
that come to us from the Heavenly Father through Christ.
R2918:3
Symbolically, without the corruption of human theory,
selfishness and ambition. F464
And bitter herbs -- Symbols of trials, persecutions, etc.
F460
Numbers 9:12
Nor break any bone -- A type of the fact that none of

Jesus' bones were broken. (John 19:36) R198:2*
Of the passover -- "Christ our Passover is sacrificed for
us." (1 Cor. 5:7) F460
Numbers 10
Numbers 10:2
Numbers 10:10
Peace offerings -- Typifying covenants of consecration to

God made by mankind during the Millennial age. T98
Numbers 10:11
In the second year -- Approximately one year; link No. 21

in the true Bible chronology. B48
The cloud -- Representing the Lord. R3060:5
A continual reminder of their covenant with God. R4037:3
Numbers 10:12
Sinai -- Picturing the Kingdom of God. R4037:5
Wilderness of Paran -- The place from which the spies

were sent out. B48
Much more rugged than Sinai. R3060:6
Referred to in Deut. 1:19 as "great and terrible." R4037:3
Numbers 10:13
Commandment of the LORD -- Spiritual Israelites should

not murmur or even express a choice when the Lord's
providences lead into new circumstances. R3060:6
Numbers 10:18
Armies -- Israel was now thoroughly organized. R4037:2

Numbers 10:29
Hobab -- Moses' brother-in-law who belonged to an Arab

tribe of Midian known as the Kenites. R4038:3
Raguel -- Otherwise called Jethro, Moses' father-in-law.
Jethro means "excellent" and was probably Raguel's title as
chief of the Midianites. R3061:5, R4038:3
We -- Typifying the Church of God. R4038:4
Unto the place -- The heavenly Canaan. R4038:4
Come thou with us -- So we may now invite those who are
still strangers to the Lord's covenants. R4038:4
Numbers 10:30
I will not go -- Similarly, if our arguments of faith fail to

influence our friends we should not give up. R4038:5
Numbers 10:31
Instead of eyes -- Similarly, some may be attracted to the

Lord's people by opportunity for rendering service (not as
elders). The Lord's people should always be ready to make
use of every human instrumentality that would aid in carrying
out the divine program. R4038:5
Hobab went with the Israelites (Judges 1:16; Judges 4:11; 1
Sam. 15:6) (See comment on "Hobab," Num. 10:29).
R3061:5, R4038:5
Hobab was more familiar with the trackless wilderness.
R4038:6
Numbers 10:35
That Moses said -- As his morning invocation. R4039:1,

R5313:3
Rise up, LORD -- In other words, "Abide with us."
R5313:3
Evidently referring to Psa. 68. R3060:6, R4039:1
This verse was Israel's usual battle hymn. R5626:3
Numbers 10:36
He said -- As his evening prayer. R4039:1, R5313:3

Numbers 11
Numbers 11:4
A lusting -- Typifying God's people seeking worldly

doctrines (specifically, Evolution) instead of religious
(spiritual) food. R5267:3*
Wept again -- To murmur is to dispute the divine wisdom
and promises and to long for food of one's own provision.
R5306:2, 6
The prayers of murmurers, when answered, often bring
sorrow. R3061:2
Numbers 11:5
Remember the fish -- How apt are all to remember the

pleasures of the sinful condition and to forget its hardships.
R3036:3
The world's theories. R5307:1
Numbers 11:6
Beside this manna -- Representing the living Bread

supplied to the world by God in Christ. T122; R4037:5
Divine truth. R5307:1
Numbers 11:7
Manna -- Meaning "What is it?" R4012:4
Numbers 11:9
Manna fell upon it -- Evidently deposited in, or from, the

dew by some power of God working in harmony with the
natural laws of chemistry not yet thoroughly understood.
R3036:4
Numbers 11:11
Moses -- Who acted representatively in making the Law

covenant with Israel, as Christ acted representatively in
bringing it to an end. R1725:3-5
Numbers 11:12
As a nursing father -- God dealt with Moses in making

the Law covenant; he stood in the position of a father to the
nation and they were regarded and treated as children under
age. R5046:3, R1725:3
Numbers 11:13
Give us flesh -- Desires for worldly doctrines (specifically,

Evolution) instead of religious (spiritual) food--Manna.
R5267:3*
Numbers 11:14
Is too heavy for me -- Moses, instead of being a schemer

after power and authority, was really an overworked servant.
A47
Numbers 11:15
Kill me -- Moses urged that if this burden must remain

with him it would be better for him to die. R5306:4
Numbers 11:16
70 men of the elders -- Supposedly the original Sanhedrin.

R4037:2, R5306;4
Elders of the people -- The civil government which was
established was virtually a democracy. HG533:6
A form of government calculated to cultivate the spirit of
liberty. HG534:2
Numbers 11:17
I will take -- Showing Israel's government to be a

Theocracy. A46
Put it upon them -- Fecundating their minds mechanically,
without affecting them in any moral sense. E175
Bear the burden -- God granted the prayer of Moses as a
proper one. R5307:4
Numbers 11:18
Ye have wept -- The murmurings of the people were

classed as their prayers. They got what they desired, but with
it a punishment. R5307:4
Let us take heed how we pray. R5307:4
Numbers 11:25
They prophesied -- This became a sign to the elders

themselves and to all who heard it that they shared
responsibility of leadership. R5306:5
Numbers 11:29
And Moses -- Foreshadowing Christ's willingness to share

the honors of the divine nature with the Church. R3553:1
Enviest thou for my sake? -- An example of true and
guileless statesmanship and meekness. A47
Numbers 11:31
Two cubits high -- Every spring they come in great flocks

and, wearied with the long flight across the Red Sea, fly so
low, about two cubits from the ground, that they are easily
captured. R4012:3, R5306:5; PD34/45
Numbers 11:33
Smote the people -- Those who fill themselves with

Higher Criticism and Evolutionary theories perish as New
Creatures. R5307:1
Very great plague -- An insidious pestilence, a
fever from overeating. R5306:6, R3061:2
Errors produce a fever which consumes the New Creature.
R5307:1
Numbers 11:34
Kibroth-hattaavah -- "Graves of greediness." R5306:6

Buried the people -- Thus did the Lord permit the
murmurers to do themselves injury--a lesson for spiritual
Israel. R5306:6
Numbers 12
Numbers 12:1
Miriam -- Typifying those who fail to recognize Christ as

the leader of spiritual Israel and who fail to honor those
whom he uses as his mouthpieces and servants. R4037:5
Her jealousy-poisoned mind began to see evidences that the
Lord had forsaken Moses. R5308:2
And Aaron -- Busy-bodying in other men's matters.
R3061:4
A weak character; as shown on this occasion and when he
made the golden calf. R5308:3
Spake against Moses -- While both participated in the sin,
Miriam was the leading spirit. R5308:1
An Ethiopian woman -- A Negress. R3042:6
The start of the matter was a question of family pride.
R5308:1
The Lord could have hindered the marriage. He probably
favored it so the Jews would not choose Moses' children as
his successors; they were supposed to look to the Lord as
their leader. R3061:4
Of an alien race, she replaced Miriam as first lady, arousing
Miriam's jealousy on religious grounds. R5308:1
Zipporah, typifying the Bride of Christ. R1651:6
Perhaps Moses' first wife had died, and Zipporah was his
second wife. R5308:1
Numbers 12:2
They said -- Miriam began to spread her seditious

suggestions throughout the camp of Israel. R5308:3
Also by us -- Miriam had been recognized by the Lord as a
prophetess and Aaron had been used as the mouthpiece of
Moses. R5308:2
The LORD heard it -- The Lord is not inattentive to his
own business. R5308:3
Numbers 12:3
Was very meek -- Thus a suitable type of the meek and

lowly Nazarene and of the members of his Body. R1651:3
If Moses had been proud and arrogant he would have been
unfit for the duties and responsibilities which devolved upon
him as the leader of his people out of Egypt to the borders of
Canaan. R5252:1
Meekness was a marked characteristic of all the prophets and
Ancient Worthies. R1921:1
Yet it was this same Moses who was hindered from entering
the promised land as a punishment for spiritual pride.
R5957:3, R4047:4, R3866:4
Numbers 12:8
Mouth to mouth -- Not through dreams and visions, but in

plain language. R5308:4
Similitude of the LORD -- Moses was granted a closer
approach to the divine presence; it may be that our Lord
Jesus, as Michael, especially represented the Father with
Moses. R4055:2
Numbers 12:9
Anger of the LORD -- Typifying God's indignation

against those who fail to recognize him as leader of spiritual
Israel and fail to honor those whom he uses as his
mouthpieces and servants. R4037:5
Numbers 12:10
She was leprous -- Aaron realized that he had assisted and

upheld his sister in a sinful course. R5308:4
Such prompt dealing with sin will be the regular order under
the Messianic Kingdom. R5308:6
Leprosy: typifying sin. R5308:5
Numbers 12:14
Seven days -- Type of a full and complete period of tests

as respects a putting away of sin. R5308:5
Numbers 13
Numbers 13:1
And the LORD -- The request of the people that the land
be spied and reported on before its conquest was begun was
acceded to by Moses. R4045:3
Numbers 13:16
Jehoshua -- Je: Jehovah, Oshea: Salvation; hence,

Jehovah's salvation, shortened to Joshua (Greek: Jesus).
R5335:3, R4060:3
Numbers 13:17
The land of Canaan -- Typifying possession of the

blessings promised by the Lord. R5314:1, 4
Numbers 13:20
The time -- July, apparently one or two months were spent

on the journey. R5313:3
Numbers 13:23
Cluster of grapes -- Many Christians give an

unsatisfactory sample of the fruits of the spirit, hindering the
outflow of the Lord's blessings. R4046:4
Numbers 13:26
Kadesh -- The place from which the spies were sent out.
B48
A delightful place, well-watered, sharp contrast to Paran.
R5313:3
Numbers 13:29
The Amalekites -- The enemies of the land represent the

weaknesses of the flesh and the oppositions of the Christian's
fallen nature. R5314:2
Numbers 13:30
We are well able -- Faith, though not minimizing the

difficulties, counts on God. R4046:5
To the eye of faith all things are possible; to the eye of
unbelief the conquest of the flesh is impossible. R5314:2
Numbers 13:31
But the men -- The ten spies, representing the Great

Company. R4046:4
We be not able -- Through timidity and lack of faith they
murmured against going up. R5388:1
Unbelief never goes beyond the difficulties, the cities, the
walls, the giants. R4046:4*
Numbers 13:32
Evil report -- Presenting the matter from the standpoint of

its difficulties and forgetting the divine providences. R5313:6
That eateth up -- Perhaps by pestilence or local warfare.
R3063:6
Numbers 13:33
We saw the giants -- Nephilim. "There were giants in the

earth." (Gen. 6:4) This was a false report. E104; R777:4
Probably some of the same families afterward represented by
Goliath. R5313:6
Giants of opposition and despair. R4046:6
Numbers 14
Numbers 14:4
Return into Egypt -- To the world. R1842:6
Numbers 14:6
And Joshua -- Meaning "Deliverer of his people"; type of

Jesus. A79; R3064:5
And Caleb -- Meaning "Dog"; type of the Church, chiefly
composed of the poor of this world. R3064:5
Searched the land -- Joshua toured the entire country,
some 300 miles; while Caleb's group only went as far as
Hebron. R4045:3
Numbers 14:7
The land -- Canaan, type of the rest of faith. R5345:4;

T25
Canaan represents the conflict conditions of the trial-state.
F130
"We who believe do enter into rest" in proportion to our
exercise of faith. (Heb. 4:3) R5345:5
It is proper to speak of an earthly and a heavenly Canaan.
R3945:2
Numbers 14:13
And Moses -- Being more mindful of the Lord's honor than

his own. R1842:3
Numbers 14:14
Thy cloud -- Manifestation of divine power and presence.

They stopped with the cloud and journeyed when it moved.
R5387:5
Numbers 14:17
The power of my Lord -- Pray, pleading God's glory.

R5380:6*
Numbers 14:18
By no means -- He has, however, provided a way by

which he can be just and yet justify and release justly
condemned sinners. This one just way is through Christ.
HG308:5
Clearing the guilty -- Moses did not ask the Lord to clear
persistently willful sinners. R1842:4
The demands of justice must be satisfied. R2328:2;
Q'05/10/20
Unto the third -- Deviations from the prototype are
corrected in the course of three generations. R4859:6*
Numbers 14:20
To thy word -- This mercy could be extended to the

young, but not to the adults (willful sinners), an illustration of
the value of intercessory prayer. R1842:5
Numbers 14:21
All the earth -- "He shall have dominion from sea to sea
and from the river unto the ends of the earth." (Psa. 72:8)
R1415:1
Then all shall see the glorious brightness of God's wisdom,
justice, love and power. R5210:5
Shall be filled -- By the end of the Millennium. D656
Numbers 14:23
They -- Type of a class of willful sinners of this Gospel

age who come under condemnation to the Second Death.
R1842:5
Numbers 14:31
They shall know -- Showing the value of intercessory

prayer on behalf of those who sin not unto death. R1842:5
Numbers 14:33
Children shall wander -- Illustrates that fidelity to the

truth will in due time be rewarded, though for a time the
faithful may suffer on account of the unfaithful. R1842:1
Because of their lack of faith and their rebellion. R5387:6
Forty years -- The remainder of 40 years. R4046:2
Typifying the period of Jewish disfavor. R3064:4
Numbers 14:34
Day for a year -- A key by which nearly all time

prophecies can be unlocked. B91
The six creative days were not 24-hour days. The word "day"
stands for epoch, or period. F19
Numbers 14:37
The evil report -- The false statement that they saw giants,
or Nephilim, whom the flood had destroyed, was part of it.
E104
Numbers 14:44
Departed not -- We should never attempt any undertaking,

temporal or spiritual, without seeking to know the will of the
Lord concerning it. R3062:1
Numbers 15
Numbers 15:16
For the stranger -- The Mosaic Law was far ahead of its
time. A50
Numbers 15:31
Cut off -- Willful enemies are cut off in Second Death.

R1176:1
Numbers 15:32
Gathered sticks -- Contrary to the Law, which forbade

any kind of work, secular or religious. R1727:1
Numbers 15:34
It was not declared -- Moses' uncertainty proves the

Sabbath to be a new law, previously unknown. R1731:3,
R972:1
Numbers 15:35
Put to death -- To serve as a lesson; not so punished

subsequently. R2943:5
If the Sabbath still applies, so does the strictness of its
adherence. R970:1, R971:5
Numbers 15:38
Make them fringes -- A tassel. It is suggested that this

was what led to the rebellion of Korah. R5268:1*
Fringe of the borders -- Represents the "Vow unto the
Lord." R5268:3*
Ribband of blue -- To inspire their fidelity by recalling
God's faithfulness. R100:6*
Numbers 16
Numbers 16:1
Now Korah -- Teaches us that in God's estimation there is

no holiness that does not include humility and full
submission. R3100:2
Son of Levi -- The uprising was amongst the consecrated
Levites. R5268:2*
Numbers 16:2
They rose up -- Represents those who fail to recognize

divine institutions in spiritual Israel. R4037:5
Numbers 16:3
Gathered themselves -- Typical of the opposition

engendered against the Lord's harvest work: "Why so high a
standard?" R5268:3*
Too much upon you -- "Neither murmur ye, as some of
them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer."
(1 Cor 10:10) R2300:4
Had they recognized the Lord as Governor they would have
accepted Moses as his representative. R4047:1
So some ignore Jesus and talk of the fatherhood of God and
the brotherhood of man. R4047:2
Thus Christ calls not all, but a special class. R4047:2
The Lord sets the members in the Body, we are not to set
ourselves. R4047:3
LORD is among them -- Boastfulness is not a sign of
piety, but of the reverse. R2300:5
Numbers 16:12
We will not come up -- Where the heart is wrong it cannot

be guided by reason. R3100:3
Numbers 16:17
Censer -- Pictures the bringing forth of many tracts and

pamphlets by those who oppose the harvest work. R5268:4*
Numbers 16:22
Of the spirits -- Ruach, life-power, spirit of life. E314
Numbers 16:30
Earth open -- Possibly showing being swallowed up by

worldliness, business, etc. R5268:4
Into the pit -- Sheol, oblivion, the death-state. E356;
R828:3
Typical, here, of the Second Death. R3100:5, R138:4*
Numbers 16:32
Swallowed them up -- Thus worldliness or various false

ideas have swallowed or buried in oblivion, as far as
leadership is concerned, some who have become heady and
have been rejected by the Lord. R3100:6
Numbers 16:33
Into the pit -- Not only Korah, but his house and
household goods all went into hell. HG556:2
They perished -- Typifying the everlasting destruction of
those who would despise the antitypical Moses and his
redemptive work. R4037:5
Numbers 16:41
Israel murmured -- Instead of recognizing the justice of

the Lord in dealing with those who were rebellious against his
divine arrangements. R5268:4*
Typifying some who now falsely accuse the Lord's true
servants when the Lord himself has ceased to use some
unfaithful servant. R3101:1
This same spirit may be noted in our day. How many there
are who, because not right at heart, are more or less in
sympathy with those with whom the Lord has no sympathy.
R3100:6
Numbers 17
Numbers 17:2
A rod -- Authority; a special manifestation of divine power

and rule. R5419:5
Numbers 17:8
Of Aaron -- Representing the Royal Priesthood. T122

Was budded -- Showing the elect character of all the Body
of Christ as members of the Royal Priesthood. T122
And yielded almonds -- A peculiarity of the almond tree is
that the fruit buds appear before the leaves do; so with the
Royal Priesthood: they bring forth fruit before the leaves of
profession are seen. T122
Numbers 17:10
To be kept -- In the ark of the testimony. T121
Numbers 17:13
Shall die -- Necessary because it illustrated something

greater and more important to come later. T12
Numbers 18
Numbers 18:1
Said unto Aaron -- Type of Christ. T38
Numbers 18:9
Every oblation -- Every offering made by the world of

mankind during the Millennial age. T92
Numbers 18:10
In the most holy -- The perfect spiritual condition. T92

Shalt thou -- Aaron and his sons, representing the Royal
Priesthood. T92
Eat It -- Accept it. T92
Numbers 18:19
Covenant of salt -- The covenant of faithfulness, a pledge

of lasting friendship. R4907:1
A covenant made over a sacrificial meal with salt; its
preservative qualities a symbol of an enduring compact.
R2099:2*
Numbers 18:23
No inheritance -- Typifying that the imperfect conditions

of the present time are not the inheritance of those who are
consecrated to the Lord and whose hopes are heavenly. F130
All the Gospel Church are called to heavenly conditions;
therefore cut off from their earthly rights as men. R5023:2
The antitypical Levites will not have an earthly inheritance.
Q436:1; R4655:2
Numbers 19
Numbers 19:2
Red heifer -- Type of the Ancient Worthies; red to teach

that they were not sinless, a heifer instead of a bullock to
show that it was not one of the sacrifices of the Day of
Atonement. T106, T111; R4389:1
They were justified by faith--red represents the blood of
Christ--they caught a glimpse of Christ's day. R1872:1
Never came yoke -- Showing that the Ancient Worthies
were justified, made free from the Law covenant, thus to
"obtain a good report through faith." (Heb. 11:39) T110
Numbers 19:3
Eleazar the priest -- Probably typifying the Apostle Paul.

The name Eleazar signifies "Helped by God." T110
And one -- Not a priest, showing that the sacrifice did not
in any sense of the word represent the sacrifices of the Gospel
age. T106
Before his face -- Representing that one of the underpriests
would so recognize and approve the sacrifices of the Ancient
Worthies; as the Apostle Paul has done in the eleventh
chapter of Hebrews. T110
Numbers 19:4
Before the tabernacle -- Showing that their lives were in

full harmony with the Tabernacle conditions. T110
Numbers 19:6
Take cedar wood -- Representing the gift of everlasting

life to them. T109
And hyssop -- Representing the purging or cleansing of
truth. T109
And scarlet -- Representing that they were justified or
accepted by the blood of the cross. T109
Cast It -- The ignominy heaped on the Ancient Worthies
permitted the merit of the blood, the cleansing of the truth and
everlasting life, to be accounted to them through faith. T110
Numbers 19:9
Gather up the ashes -- Representing the knowledge and

remembrance of their faithfulness unto death. T108
The instructions of the Ancient Worthies. T112
In a clean place -- Picturing the store of blessings,
instructions and help by which the Ancient Worthies will
assist in the restitution work. T111
Numbers 19:11
The dead body -- Representing Adamic death. T111

Numbers 19:16
Toucheth . . . a grave -- Ordinary graves were covered

with a stone slab and whitewashed lest someone tread upon
them and be defiled. R5952:3
Numbers 19:19
In water -- Symbol of truth. T112
Numbers 20
Numbers 20:1
First month -- In April of the 40th year they assembled to

enter the promised land. R5315:1
Numbers 20:3
Chode with Moses -- All leaders of honor and influence

carry weighty responsibilities. R5315:1
Numbers 20:6
Glory of the LORD -- Surmised to have been a ray of

light emanating from the Mercy Seat in the Most Holy.
R5315:1
Unto them -- Possibly also manifest to the people of Israel,
who looked on. R5315:1
Numbers 20:8
Take the rod -- Presumably "Aaron's rod that budded."

R5315:1
A reminder to the people of the Lord's special acceptance of
Aaron as the High Priest and assistant of Moses. R5315:2
Numbers 20:10
Must we fetch -- Moses took the honor to himself instead

of giving God the glory. R41:1, R5957:4
One of the most illustrious servants of God there fell under
divine disapprobation. R5315:2
Similarly, the feet class will need to be specially upheld by
the Lord that they stumble not through pride or self-conceit.
R4047:5
Those who do not have sufficient faith in the Lord as the real
Head of the Church are generally those who feel too much
self-assurance. R3018:2
Numbers 20:11
And Moses -- Typifying, in this case, those who crucify

the Son of God afresh; commit the sin unto death. R3077:4,
R4058:1, R5333:3, R5957:5
Smote the rock -- Type of Christ. R3077:4, R5333:3
In this he spoiled a type while he made another type. Christ
Jesus, the true Rock, was to be smitten but once for our sins.
But the second smiting made a new type--some now crucify
Christ afresh, committing the sin unto death--the Second
Death. R3077:3, 4
Twice -- Twice, typically putting Christ "to an open
shame." (Heb. 6:6) R3077:4
The second time; the first time in Ex. 17:1-7; this time he
was to speak to the rock, not smite it. R3077:3 The smiting
of the rock at the beginning of Israel's experience was
authorized; it was necessary that upon Jesus should fall the
rod of affliction. The second smiting may symbolize a
smiting of the people of God in the end of this age. R5315:3
Water came out -- Symbolizing the blessings which flow
from the smiting of Jesus' followers. Under the divine
providence blessings will flow from the wrong course, yet no
greater blessings than might have come by pursuing the right
course. R5315:3
Numbers 20:12
Believed me not -- Self-assertion and lack of faith were

Moses' sin. R4047:6, R5315:5
Any denial of the Redeemer on the part of the consecrated
would signify a crucifying afresh, a smiting of the rock a
second time. R5315:4
The most unjust thing we can do is judge Moses or any other
man by his deeds and not by his fruits. R4055:5
Numbers 20:14
Of Edom -- Descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother.

R5316:1
Type of Christendom. D15
Numbers 20:21
Israel turned away -- The Midianites, Moabites and

Edomites were related to Abraham so Israel left them
unmolested, except when they attacked. R5316:1
Numbers 21
Numbers 21:2
Vowed a vow -- Because of a pre-emptory attack by the

Canaanites. R3101:2
Numbers 21:3
The Canaanites -- Representing sin, its enticements and

blandishments in the weaknesses of the flesh. R3101: 3
Utterly destroyed -- Not then, but a parenthesis showing
that they later kept their vow. R3101:2
Hormah -- So called, meaning "utter destruction," because
of their vow. R3101:2
Numbers 21:4
Compass the land -- To take a shortcut through Edom,

typical of taking in the pleasures of this life and the
fellowship of the world as part of the Christian life. R5267:5
*
Of Edom -- Type of Christendom. D15
Much discouraged -- Type of how in the nominal
churches there is an opposition to the narrow way of self-sacrifice. R5267:6
Because of the detour around Edom. R5316:1
Numbers 21:5
Spake against God -- Against the voice of the Lord

through the Scriptures and against all those who walk in the
wilderness way. R5267:6*
Loatheth this light bread -- Representing a tendency of
spiritual Israelites to lose their appreciation for spiritual food
and go hungering after the pleasures of the world. Such a
yielding to worldly appetites will surely expose them to the
bite of the serpent of sin. R2300:2
Numbers 21:6
Fiery -- Supposed to have been thus called because of red

streaks upon the head. Their bite so inflames the nervous
system as to cause the feeling of fire throughout the entire
body, often resulting in death in a few hours. R4048:2
In India several thousand people die annually from the bite of
the cobra. R3101:4
Serpents -- Representing sin. "The sting of death is sin."
(1 Cor. 15:56) R5239:1, R4037:5, R4048:4, R5316:4;
PD34/45
Numbers 21:7
Pray unto the LORD -- On such occasions they

understood that it was a punishment and made no effort to use
medicines. R2029:2
Numbers 21:8
When he looketh -- Our mission has been during the reign

of sin and death to point the sin-bitten to the Savior.
R5316:4; SM767:1
Not when Jesus was made flesh, nor when exalted, but only
when looked upon does he give life; looking by the eyes of
understanding is expressed by the word believing. R1328:5*
Numbers 21:9
Made a serpent -- Primarily representing sin, Satan's agent

in alluring our first parents into condemnation hence our Lord
Jesus, who took the sinner's place. "He made him who knew
no sin to be a sin-offering for us." (2 Cor. 5:21 Diaglott)
R4049:4, R4970:1, R5847:1; Q498:T
Of brass -- Copper, symbolizing the perfect humanity of
our Lord. T18; R3101:6
Upon a pole -- Type of the cross. "As Moses lifted up the
serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be
lifted up." (John 3:14) R5239:1, R4037:5, R4049:1
Numbers 21:11
Moab -- The Moabites were children of Lot, Abraham's

nephew. R5316:1
Numbers 22
Numbers 22:4
Midian -- The Midianites were children of Abraham by

Keturah. R5316:1
Numbers 22:5
Balaam -- A Gentile. Before the Israelites had entered

Canaan and were fully recognized as God's holy nation, men
of faith in God were more or less recognized by him.
R5322:3
To Pethor -- 400 miles away, on the Euphrates. R5322:3
River of the land -- The Euphrates, in the country which
Abraham left when he came to Canaan. R5322:3
Numbers 22:6
Is blessed -- Balaam was considered an oracle whose

messages were sure to come to pass. R5322:2
Numbers 22:7
Rewards of divination -- Salary, maintenance of position,

friendship of wealthy Balaks. R2204:5
Numbers 22:19
Tarry ye -- The nobles should have been kindly, but

firmly, told that the divine will was the law of Balaam.
R5323:2
Say unto me more -- Balaam knew the mind of the Lord
on the subject but was a money-lover, hoping for a chance to
get some reward. R5322:3
Numbers 22:21
And Balaam -- Type of a class that teaches error for profit.

(Jude 1:11-16) F166
Numbers 22:22
Stood in the way -- Angels can be, and frequently are,

present, yet invisible. A182
Numbers 22:33
Turned from me -- Even an ass knew better than to go

contrary to the Higher Power. R5323:2
Numbers 22:38
Have I now any power -- Illustrating how the holy Spirit

in the Jewish age took possession of prophets as machines.
R217:6
Numbers 23
Numbers 23:1
Seven altars -- He would have a form of godliness even

while desiring to do contrary to the divine will. R5322:6
Numbers 23:8
How shall I curse? -- While outwardly he still remained

loyal to God, yet inwardly his harmony with God was gone.
R5323:2
Numbers 23:9
Shall dwell alone -- Israel shall be separate from all other

nations. To this day they remain a people of preserved
identity. R5323:6
Numbers 23:10
Let me -- Nephesh, the sentient being, soul. E334

Death of the righteous -- Our Lord Jesus. When we think
of death we should think of his death, laying down our lives
for the brethren. R4055:4
Numbers 23:19
That he should lie -- In contrast with Satan, the father of

lies. (John 8:44) Q765:4
Numbers 23:21
Not beheld iniquity -- God's covenant with Israel was that

while they would be loyal to him and his Law, their enemies
could not prevail against them. R5323:4
Numbers 24
Numbers 24:9
Blessed is he -- Great Britain and the United States,

nations which have blessed the Jew, have in turn received
great blessings. R5323:6
Cursed is he -- Every nation that has dealt harshly with
Israel has received severe chastisement or blight. R5323:6
Numbers 24:17
There shall come -- Referring to Messiah's Kingdom.

R5323:6
A Star -- "I am the bright and morning star." (Rev.
22:16) R5323:6
And a Sceptre -- The right to rule. B83
Numbers 24:18
And Edom -- Type of Christendom. D15
Numbers 24:20
Amalek -- Type of willful sinners of the Millennial age.

F174
Numbers 24:25
To his place -- He evidently remained to oversee the work

of iniquity and to secure the rewards of his nefarious advice.
R5323:5
Numbers 25
Numbers 25:1
Whoredom -- Guided by Balaam, Balak had Midianite

women seduce Israelites so they would be cursed by God's
Law. R5323:3
Spiritual fornication is any illicit fellowship with the world by
those betrothed to Christ; friendship in spirit with those who
have not the Lord's spirit. R2300:1
Numbers 25:2
Sacrifices of their gods -- "Balaam taught Balak to cast a

stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things
sacrificed to idols,
and to commit fornication." (Rev. 2:14) R5323:3
Numbers 25:5
Slay -- The death of thousands of Israelites on such

occasions was the whole penalty for their sin. They did not
drop into a hell of torment. R5323:4
God also punished the Midianites and Balaam. (Num. 31:2,
8) R5323:5
Numbers 26
Numbers 26:51
601,730 -- The male forces numbering less than when they

left Egypt. (Num. 1:46) HG362:3
Numbers 26:54
More inheritance -- The Mosaic Law particularly

safeguarded the interests of the poor. A50
Numbers 26:56
Between many and few -- No laws more carefully provide

that rich and poor shall stand on a common level in
accountability before the civil law. HG535:1
Numbers 26:58
Amram -- Type of The Christ. F128
Numbers 26:61
Nadab and Abihu -- Types of those who sin the sin unto
death during the Gospel age, and of the Great Company. T41
Numbers 27
Numbers 27:15
And Moses -- Without complaint and with touching

sweetness and grandeur of nobility in his devotion to the Lord
and to his people. R1850:1
Numbers 27:16
Set a man -- When God bade Moses make ready to ascend

the mount to view the promised land and there to lie down
and die alone, Moses' only reply was an expression of deep
concern for Israel. Then he applied himself to the completion
of his work, giving his fatherly counsel to his beloved people,
as recorded in Deuteronomy. R1850:1
Numbers 27:18
Take thee Joshua -- Type of The Christ. A79
Numbers 27:21
Urim -- Associated with the breastplate stones, but nothing

is specifically known. Q697:2, Q728:2
Numbers 28
Numbers 28:17
The fifteenth day -- Their Passover week always began

with the 15th of Nisan, by divine direction. R2115:5
Numbers 30
Numbers 30:2
Not break his word -- Subsequent verses show that a vow

made by a wife or daughter was void unless ratified by the
husband or father, whose responsibility as head of the family
was thus shown. R2100:5
Numbers 30:7
Held his peace -- The husband, not dissenting to his wife's

consecration, should give liberty to her conscience. R2747:3
Numbers 31
Numbers 31:8
They slew -- Not only did God punish the Israelites for
their whoredom (Num. 25:1-4), but he also punished the
Midianites and Balaam. R5323:5
Balaam also -- Type of the class that teach error for profit.
(Jude 1:11-16) F166
Numbers 31:16
Counsel of Balaam -- He instructed King Balak how to

tempt Israel to sin. So Pagan priests taught the Church to
indulge in spiritual fornication. R5993:1, R491:3*
Some of these Balaams are in the ministry for the sake of
salary and are willing to preach doctrines which they do not
believe. R2204:5
Numbers 31:19
Killed any person -- Nephesh, Sentient being, soul. E334

Touched any slain -- From the Lord's standpoint war is
unclean. R3276:4
Numbers 31:28
One soul -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being, as of man.

E324
The Word of God speaks both of men and of beasts as souls.
R5166:1
Numbers 32
Numbers 32:11
Not wholly followed -- The majority failed to enter Canaan

because of their lack of faith, their fearfulness and their
consequent rebellion. R5387:6
Numbers 32:23
Sin will find you -- As King Ahab was met by Elijah as he

entered the vineyard which Queen Jezebel obtained for him
by perfidy. R5771:2
Zedekiah was overthrown because he broke his vow to
Nebuchadnezzar. Disloyalty to our vow to the Lord would
mean Second Death. R3623:3-5
Numbers 33
Numbers 33:11
Wilderness of Sin -- Type of the wilderness of sin through

which the Church journeys to the heavenly Canaan. A221
Numbers 35
Numbers 35:11
Cities of refuge -- Typifying Christ. R4079:6, R3093:2

Killeth any person -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being. E334
Numbers 35:12
The avenger -- Every Jew was an avenger of God to

render just punishment--not so with the Christian. R5645:1, 4
Typifying justice. "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands
of the living God." (Heb. 10:31) R3093:4
Numbers 35:24
Congregation shall judge -- The cities of refuge did not

shelter a willful murderer, but accorded a fair trial. R4079:3
Was it malicious? Was it with guile? Was there enmity
between the two men? R3092:5
Numbers 35:25
Unto the death -- As long as Christ continues in his

priestly office, at the end of the Millennium. R4080:1
Of the high priest -- Typifying the new dispensation when
we shall be presented faultless before the Father's presence
after the last member of the High Priest has died and has been
glorified. R3093:4
Numbers 35:31
Put to death -- Christ is no shelter for unrepentant sinners.

R4079:6
Because even the measure of life enjoyed is so much of the
original divine gift and no one is at liberty to treat it lightly.
R3092:3
Evidently the lesson of just retribution for sin was to be
deeply impressed upon the people of Israel. R5645:4
Deuteronomy
General
The book of Deuteronomy may in a general sense be said
to be the dying message of Moses to Israel. It is supposed to
have been uttered within a few days of his death. (Outline of
the book follows.) R5334:4, R5528:1
Deuteronomy is the title of one of the most important
books of the Bible. From it evidently David and the other
prophets of the Old Testament drew considerable of their
inspiration and from it our Lord and the apostles freely
quoted. It may be said to be a grand summary of the whole
law of God. It presents to us a number of the orations of that
great man of God and leader of Israel--the Mediator of the
Law covenant. Its preparation may have been a gradual work
on the part of Moses but its delivery was apparently reserved
until shortly before his death, about the time the Israelites
were ready to pass over Jordan under the leadership of Joshua
to take possession of the land. The grandeur of its language is
freely conceded by all. The evident object of the book was to
impress upon the Israelites the glorious lessons of their past,
to inspire them with reverence for Jehovah and thus to be to
that people the voice of Moses and the voice of the Lord
through Moses encouraging and admonishing them and,
through them, future generations. R4050:3
Not only did these orations of Deuteronomy have a
valuable influence upon the Israelites at the important
juncture of their passing from the guidance of an old leader to
that of a younger one and into a new land, but Scriptural
history tells us that six hundred years afterward the finding of
the book of Deuteronomy and the reading of it first in the ears
of King Josiah and afterward in the hearing of all the people
awakened one of the greatest revivals in the history of that
nation. R4051:1
Israel's organization now was a combination of political
and military under judges and officers over thousands,
hundreds, fifties, tens. R4037:2
Deuteronomy 1
Deuteronomy 1:1
Which Moses spake -- The dying message of Moses to

Israel supposed to have been uttered within a few days of his
death. R5334:4, R5528:1
To impress upon the Israelites the glorious lessons of their
past and to inspire them with reverence for Jehovah. R4050:3
Unto all Israel -- Not only a valuable lesson upon Israel
then, but 600 years later awakened a great revival in that
nation. (2 Kings 22:8-20). R4051:1
Deuteronomy 1:5
Saying -- The beginning of the first of four addresses

given a few days before his death. R5334:4
Deuteronomy 1:15
Wise men, and known -- Men of influence; thus Moses

was not seeking his own aggrandizement. A47; HG534:1
Deuteronomy 1:16
The stranger -- Foreigner. HG534:5
Deuteronomy 1:17
Too hard for you -- And you, yourselves, shall be judges

as to whether it is too hard or not. A48
Bring it unto me -- They themselves were the judges as to
what cases went before Moses. HG534:3
And I will hear it -- After Moses' death such questions
were brought directly to the Lord through the High Priest, the
answer being Yes or No by the Urim and Thummim. A49;
HG534:6
Deuteronomy 1:19
Terrible wilderness -- The desert of Paran which the

Israelites traversed hither and thither in their wanderings of
forty years. R4037:3
Deuteronomy 1:38
But Joshua -- Type of Christ. A79
Deuteronomy 2
Deuteronomy 2:7
These forty years -- As Israel, because of lack of faith,

had its wilderness journey of forty years; so, on account of
lack of faith at our Lord's first advent, they were made to
wander during the past nineteen centuries. R3079:3
Deuteronomy 2:14
38 years -- Thirty-eight and a large fraction of a year.

HG44:4
Deuteronomy 2:25
Upon the nations -- Egypt was unquestionably the

principal nation of that time and the king of Egypt freely
conceded that the Israelites were "more and (physically)
mightier" than the Egyptians. (Exod. 1:9) HG362:6
Deuteronomy 3
Deuteronomy 3:28
But charge Joshua -- Type of Christ. A79
Deuteronomy 4
Deuteronomy 4:6
Sight of the nations -- God's law was more or less known,

through the Jews, to other peoples. R5521:6
Deuteronomy 4:7
What nation is there -- They were made to differ from

other men by reason of God's dealings with them and his
promises to them. SM380:1
Deuteronomy 4:10
Learn to fear me -- So, during the time of trouble

mankind will learn a lesson never to be forgotten. R153:4
Deuteronomy 4:13
His covenant -- The Jew is bound by the Law so long as

he lives. (Rom. 7:1) R5163:1
Ten commandments -- The foundation of the Law
covenant. R1733:5, R1724:6
Deuteronomy 4:24
A consuming fire -- God's love, no less than his justice,

burns against all sin; he cannot look upon sin (Heb. 12:29);
"It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God."
(Heb. 10:31) F120
God is so opposed to everything that is impure that it will be
destroyed sooner or later. R5266:6
Deuteronomy 4:31
Covenant of thy fathers -- The Abrahamic covenant, of

which the Gospel Church, as the spiritual seed of Abraham,
are the chief inheritors. (Rom. 9:8; Gal. 3:29) R1850:2
Deuteronomy 4:32
As this great thing -- Those wonders on behalf of fleshly

Israel are eclipsed by greater wonders on behalf of spiritual
Israel. R1850:3
Deuteronomy 4:33
Midst of the fire -- Out of the glorious manifestations of

his adorable presence with the Church. R1850:3
Deuteronomy 4:34
Before your eyes -- In their emancipation from the

bondage of sin and their leading through all the wilderness
way, beset by foes without and within, hotly pursued by
Satan, tempted, tried and persecuted, what a miracle of grace
is every child of God. R1850:4
Deuteronomy 5
Deuteronomy 5:1
O Israel -- The Ten Commandments were given to Israel

alone. R971:4
Deuteronomy 5:2
Made a covenant -- The Ten Commandments are the

"covenant" of the Law. R542:3
The Ten Commandments alone are declared to be the
covenant; the ordinances merely went with them. R974:2
With us -- The Law covenant was made with the people of
Israel, not with Moses. Moses was the Mediator. R4999:3,
R4370:5
God dealt only with one man, Moses, in the making of the
Law covenant. He stood in the position of a father to the
nation, the nation being regarded as children under age.
R5046:4
The Jews eagerly accepted the arrangement but, being
imperfect, they could not keep this perfect law. PD35/46
Deuteronomy 5:3
With our fathers -- Not with any one else previously.

F356
But with us -- The blessings of that covenant and its
promises were only to the one nation; so also its curses.
R1725:1, R5046:1
Deuteronomy 5:4
Talked with you -- Not through the intervention of priests.

A54
Deuteronomy 5:5
I stood between -- Proving that the Law was conditional.

R4370:5
It was the Law of God because it came from him; and it is the
Law of Moses in that it came through him. HG583:6*
Moses was the Mediator of the Law covenant. As Mediator
he stood between the two parties, God and Israel. On the one
hand he represented God, and on the other, Israel. R4681:3,
R2858:3, R5000:1; Q185:2
So the antitypical Moses, the Christ (Head and Body), as
Mediator, will stand between God and the world and will for
a thousand years shield the people from the requirements of
absolute justice. R4646:1, R5000:1
The title of Mediator applied to Moses only while the
covenant was being made. In future renewals, Aaron
represents the Mediator in his sacrificing and subsequent
blessing the people, while Moses represents the Law.
R4570:3*
Not only to satisfy the claims of justice but to instruct, correct
and restore as many of the fallen race as so desire. E18
Into the mount -- Type of the Kingdom of God. R4037:5
Deuteronomy 5:7
Thou shalt have -- The Decalogue is a synopsis of the

whole Law. A45
Neither the angelic sons nor the New Creation are under the
Law, nor do they need it. F365; R4014:2
The wonderful Law of God, represented by the Ten
Commandments, has a depth of meaning not seen on the
surface, and was apparently seen by none until Jesus
"magnified the law and made it honorable." (Isa. 42:21)
R5286:2
None other gods -- Mighty ones, my equals. E40
God properly puts himself first; the true God shall have first
place in the human heart. R4014:3, R5286:3
Deuteronomy 5:8
Any graven image -- With spiritual Israel this goes so far

as to include father, mother, self, wealth, ambition; anything
that would prevent the Lord from having the first place.
R3038:2, R4014:4, R5071:5
Waters beneath -- The waters are below, beneath, the
level of the "dry land," called the earth. R1813:1
Deuteronomy 5:9
Bow down thyself -- Shaw-kaw, worship. E73

Unto them -- To images or to rival gods. E73
Am a jealous God -- Wanting all the affections,
confidence and trust of my creatures, for their own good.
R3038:3, R4789:2
God's jealousy is just and is sure to bring to the sinner a just
punishment. R4789:2
The impropriety of jealousy is when it leads to bitterness and
other like qualities to which the fallen human mind is subject.
R4789:2
Upon the children -- By the law of nature under which, in
wisdom, God has placed humanity. R3038:3
The tendency of sin is to break down the moral character and
to impair the physical system. R2668:2
Suffering for the fathers' sins. R527:6*
Unto the third -- Darwin considered that species had been
and were being built up by the process of natural selection,
but no species is being built up, and deviations from the
prototype are corrected in the course of three generations.
R4859:6*
Deuteronomy 5:11
Taketh his name -- The only ones who may properly take
Christ's name are those who really become his disciples.
R5404:6
As a child adopted into a family takes the name of the family,
so we have taken upon ourselves the name of the sons of God.
R4014:5
To take the name of God without careful effort to represent
him is a sin against God. R1527:6
So the Jews, going to the extreme, avoid the covenant name
of God-Jehovah. R3038:6
In vain -- Lightly, frivolously, or in any other than a
sacred and reverential manner. R3038:5, R1527:3
"Thou desirest truth in the inward parts." (Psa. 51:6)
R1527:3
"Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from
iniquity." (2 Tim. 2:19) R1527:3
Deuteronomy 5:12
The sabbath day -- Type of the Millennial age. B40;

R5071:6; Q607:4
Typifying the rest which spiritual Israelites now enter by faith
in Christ. R4015:1, R5071:6, R5360:1
Sanctify it -- Observance as a day of rest, and no more.
R4995:3
Deuteronomy 5:14
But the seventh day -- Not the first day; if this

commandment is binding at all, it is binding as stated and
cannot be changed. R1727:2
Not do any work -- It prohibits all kinds of work, secular
or religious. R1727:1
"We which believe do enter into rest." (Heb. 4:3) R3753:4
Deuteronomy 5:15
Keep the sabbath day -- This was something new to the

Israelites, not previously known among them or their fathers.
R1731:3
The Jewish Sabbath and its system of sabbaths are types of
the greater Sabbath-the heavenly. Q759:3
Deuteronomy 5:16
Honour thy father -- To the spiritual Israelite this would

mean our Father in heaven. R4019:3
If our forefathers were monkeys, as so many now teach, why
should we have much honor or respect for them? R4019:3
Quoted by Jesus in Mark 7:10 and attributed to Moses.
HG583:6*
And thy mother -- To the spiritual Israelites this would
mean God's original covenant with Abraham, typified by
Sarah. R4019:5
In the land -- The fact that the Jews did not dwell long in
the land given them is evidence that they did not keep this
commandment properly. R3044:6
Deuteronomy 5:17
Thou shaft not kill -- Hatred of a brother is the spirit of

murder. R3045:1, R4019:6, R5286:3
We should not even kill animals wantonly. R3045:1,
R4019:5, R5287:6
Deuteronomy 5:18
Commit adultery -- Not even "in the heart." (Matt. 5:28)

R4020:4, R5286:3
The Church is to be uncontaminated, unadulterated, separate
from the world. R3045:3
Deuteronomy 5:19
Neither shalt thou steal -- By any method deprive another

of that which is properly his. R4020:5
Making false returns to tax assessors, attempting to smuggle
without payment of customs duty, failure to give agreed-upon
services for wages, are stealing. R5288:1
The worst form of stealing is the filching of another's good
name. "Speak evil of no man. (Titus 3:2) R5288:1,4
Deuteronomy 5:20
Bear false witness -- By a nod of the head, a shrug of the

shoulders, or by silence. R3045:5
Deuteronomy 5:21
Desire ... covet -- Wish to appropriate for yourself.

R4021:4
"Godliness with contentment (absence of covetousness) is
great gain." (1 Tim. 6:6) R3046:1
Covetousness caused Satan's fall. R3046:1
Deuteronomy 6
Deuteronomy 6:1
And the judgments -- Decisions as to right and wrong.

R4051:1
To teach you -- "They are written for our admonition upon
whom the ends of the world (the present evil world) are
come." (1 Cor. 10:11)--the very object of their record.
R1850:2
Deuteronomy 6:2
Fear the LORD -- Perfect love casteth out slavish, but not
reverential fear. R2986:6, R4051:2
Deuteronomy 6:3
May be well -- The promises to fleshly Israel were earthly

promises. R4051:3
Deuteronomy 6:4
The LORD -- Jehovah, not a general name but a proper

name, the distinctive personal name of the Almighty Father.
Like other proper names, it should not be translated. R1410:6
Our God -- The word "god" signifies mighty one, but not
always the All-Mighty One. R1410:2
Is one LORD -- There is but one God, and he has not
three names, but one--Jehovah. R4051:5; E41; CR289:3
Our Roman Catholic friends make many gods--the Father,
Son, holy Spirit, Mary, and all the apostles and saints; and the
Protestants, contrary to Scripture, declare we have three Gods
in one or one God in three persons. R4051:4
The Jew rejects the doctrine of the Trinity as an absurdity.
OV113:3
Jehovah, self-centered and self-contained, changes not.
SM483:4
Scientifically proved by the unity of material, force,
government and moral law throughout the universe.
R3861:2*
Deuteronomy 6:5
Thou shalt love -- Not dread, fear or tremble. R5521:3

"Love is the fulfilling of the law." (Rom. 13:10) A246
Failure to love God and neighbor results in the time of trouble
as a natural consequence. A309
The spiritual Israelite is obliged to live up to everything in the
spirit that the Jew was commanded to do in the flesh. Q449:3
Love leads us to do all things in his Word. R5359:6
A law based upon justice. R5072:2
The law the whole world will be under during the Millennial
age. Q172:T
The spirit of the Decalogue is today recognized as the very
best statement of human obligation. OV10:1; SM380:T
The LORD -- Jehovah. E41
With all thine heart -- Not a mere passing sentiment of
appreciation; it is all-absorbing love that God desires.
R1850:4
Some might love and yet work ill, with best intentions; but
perfect love worketh no ill. R4850:1
Such love does not wait for commands, but appeals for
service. F124
Deuteronomy 6:7
Teach them diligently -- Cultivate this love by meditating

upon his just and holy law and upon his precepts and
instructions, and by teaching them diligently. R1850:4
When thou risest up -- A heart thus filled with love for
God would have no time for sin or frivolity and would indeed
be that of a saint. R4052:3
Deuteronomy 6:8
Upon thine hand -- Let the divine law affect every affair
of your life. R4053:2
Between thine eyes -- The memory, stored with words of
revelation, is a ready weapon of defense against every attack
of the Adversary. R2038:6
Misunderstanding the spirit of this exhortation, many Jews,
even to this day, bind upon forehead and arm cubical leather
boxes, phylacteries, containing Scriptural passages. R4053:1
Deuteronomy 6:9
Posts of thy house -- Many Jews do this literally, but

Moses' thought was that everything pertaining to the family of
God is sacred to him and under his blessing. R4053:4
And on thy gates -- The Christian who abandons the daily
reading of the Word and meditation upon it is not a growing
Christian. R1850:5
Deuteronomy 6:12
Lest thou forget -- The light, misused, may turn to

darkness; and then, "how great is that darkness." (Matt. 6:23)
R1850:5
Deuteronomy 6:15
And destroy thee -- The application to reprobates of

spiritual Israel corresponds to the faithful warnings of the
Apostle Paul in Heb. 6:4-8 and Heb. 10:26-31. R1850:6
Deuteronomy 6:16
Ye shall not tempt -- With unreasonable and unnecessary

requests for temporal favors or protection against legitimate
results of presumptuous experiments. R1688:5
Deuteronomy 7
Deuteronomy 7:1
Cast out many nations -- No injustice was done to

the Canaanites by the Lord's decree. R3085:3
In type the Canaanites or Amorites represented the
weaknesses and imperfections of the fallen nature--sin.
R3085:2
Greater and mightier -- This must mean that combinedly
they were greater and mightier, or else it signified that these
people were larger-bodied giants, in accord with the report of
the spies. HG362:6
Certainly the entire seven nations of that time could not have
numbered much over a million souls, else how could that little
land have supported them? HG362:6
Deuteronomy 7:2
Shalt smite them -- Representing the weaknesses of our

human nature against which we are to battle and overcome.
Q48:T
Make no covenant -- Hence the Jews were right in not
acknowledging the Samaritans, having no religious dealings
with them, nor intermarrying with them. R2574:2
Deuteronomy 7:6
A special people -- For 2081 years-from the Abrahamic

covenant to the call of Cornelius. R3459:6*
Deuteronomy 7:8
Unto your fathers -- Because of Abraham's great faith in

him, the Lord promised to make of his seed a peculiar people.
R5490:2
Deuteronomy 7:11
Thou shalt therefore keep -- Although all of the sons of

Jacob were called or invited, it was a conditional call.
R4781:3
Deuteronomy 7:18
Well remember -- So must the Christian continually call

to mind the Lord's leadings, care and deliverance in his
individual experiences. R2031:6
Deuteronomy 8
Deuteronomy 8:2
Thou shalt remember -- Moses exhorted the people to

fear and love the Lord. R5296:1
God led thee -- While in the wilderness they had learned
to depend on the Lord. R5296:1
These forty years -- Israel, because of lack of faith, had its
wilderness journey of forty years. So, on account of lack of
faith at our Lord's first advent, they were to wander during the
past nineteen centuries. R3079:3
To prove thee -- To test you. R5395:5
Deuteronomy 8:3
Fed thee with manna -- Representing the living Bread

supplied to the world by God through Christ. T122
But by every word -- Not just the ceremonies and justice
of the Law, but mercy, peace, love, reconciliation and
adoption into God's family. R3080:3
The type could sustain natural life for a brief season, but the
real Bread sustains spiritual life forever. R38:3, 5*
Deuteronomy 8:5
God chasteneth thee -- God's chastenings have kept

spiritual Israel's feet from wandering. R5527:6
Deuteronomy 8:7
Into a good land -- What a wonderful application can

spiritual Israel make of this scripture-we are even now in this
antitypical land. R5527:6
Deuteronomy 8:19
Surely perish -- As the rich man died and was tormented

in the flames of persecution. (Luke 16:24) R802:3*
Deuteronomy 9
Deuteronomy 9:1
Pass over Jordan -- The crossing of Jordan under the

leadership of Joshua represents God's people passing from
death unto life through faith in the blood of Jesus. PD37/48
Deuteronomy 9:4
Hath cast them out -- They had been already sentenced by

God to destruction before the conquest by Joshua. (Gen.
15:16) R2485:1
For the wickedness -- Like the Sodomites, they had gone
as far in their wickedness as divine wisdom saw best to
permit. R5296:2
Deuteronomy 9:9
Tables of the covenant -- The Ten Commandments were

the basis of the Law covenant. R1724:6
Deuteronomy 9:10
The finger of God -- Moses thus attributes the origin of

the Mosaic Law to God, not to himself. A53
Deuteronomy 9:17
And brake them -- Representing the failure of the Law

covenant by reason of the "weakness of the flesh." D631;
R2196:4
Indicating that the covenant was broken. R5298:2
The first tables, prepared by the Lord himself, represents how
man in his creation was a perfect image of his Creator.
R5298:6, R2196:4
Deuteronomy 10
Deuteronomy 10:1
Hew thee two tables -- Representing that The Christ of

glory will prepare the hearts of mankind for the re-writing of
the divine law. R5299:1
Deuteronomy 10:5
I turned myself -- Here Moses typified the entire Church,

of which our Lord is the Head. B134; D630; R5035:4
Put the tables -- Representing the New covenant, of which
Christ is the Mediator. D631
In the ark -- It represented the eternal purpose of God, his
foreordained arrangement of riches of grace for mankind in
The Christ (Head and Body). T121
Deuteronomy 10:8
The tribe of Levi -- Typifying the household of faith.

T26; F459
Deuteronomy 10:16
Circumcise . . . your heart -- Signifies a cutting off, a

separation from the flesh, its aims, hopes and desires.
R3022:3
A type of which circumcision they already had in the flesh.
(Rom. 11:25-30) R3071:2
Deuteronomy 10:17
God of gods -- Elohim--a mighty or great one, used in

referring to Jehovah the Almighty God, as well as to other
gods. R1410:3; E66
Deuteronomy 10:20
Thou shalt fear -- Thou shalt reverence. E74
Deuteronomy 10:22
Persons -- Nephesh--souls, sentient beings. E334
Deuteronomy 11
Deuteronomy 11:2
Know ye this day -- A similar use of language to that

employed by Jesus in his answer to the dying thief. (Luke
23:43) HG130:3
Deuteronomy 11:3
In the midst of Egypt -- The dominion of sin and death.

R5643:1, R5273:1; F458
Unto Pharaoh -- Type of Satan. R5273:2, R5419:5,
F458
Deuteronomy 11:4
The army of Egypt -- Type of the opponents of God's

people. F458; R5273:2, R5641:3
Their horses -- Symbolic of false doctrines. C316
Their chariots -- Symbolic of worldly organizations.
C316
Of the Red Sea -- Representing the Second Death. F459
Deuteronomy 11:28
A curse -- But it could not come without God's permission.

R1780:2, R1271:5
Deuteronomy 12
Deuteronomy 12:11
There shall be a place -- Only one spot on earth where

atoning blood could be shed. R3454:5*
Deuteronomy 12:13
In every place -- This prohibition not applicable in

Solomon's time. (1 Kings 3:3) R2045:5
Deuteronomy 12:19
Forsake not the Levite -- The tithe, though a just debt,

was not enforced as a tax but was to be paid as a voluntary
contribution. HG535:6; A52
Deuteronomy 12:23
Eat not the blood -- Forbidden even before the Law.

(Gen. 9:4) R1473:1
The blood is the life -- Represents the life. E325
Deuteronomy 12:31
Daughters they have burnt -- Thus Jephthah vowed not to

sacrifice his daughter, but to devote her to perpetual virginity.
R2897:3, 5
Deuteronomy 13
Deuteronomy 13:3
God proveth you -- The word prove has the sense of test.
The words were addressed to Israel, who had entered into a
covenant to obey all God's requirements, so it was proper that
the Lord should prove them. This proving would be
accomplished by permitting false prophets to be amongst
them. God did not prove the heathen nations, for they had no
covenant with him. R5799:3, R5527:3
Satan's opposition to the Church is permitted as a trial of faith
and of patient endurance. It tests their loyalty to God, to the
truth and to the brethren and becomes a test of brotherly love,
thus doing a sifting or separating work. R5147:6, R5320:6,
R4445:5, R4462:2, R4479:3, R4910:3
"Blessed is the man that endureth (faithfully under)
temptation; for after his trials he will receive the crown of life
which the Lord hath promised to them that love him." (Jas.
1:12) R2258:3
Class troubles amongst the brethren are means which the Lord
permits to test and to demonstrate the character of his people.
R5948:1
To see how we learn the lessons of binding up the broken
hearts. SM267, SM268
When trying experiences came to him the Lord considered
them as being under the supervision of the Father. So it is
with us: if the Father permits trying experiences for our
testing, it is for us to rejoice. R4802:3, R2258:3
The Lord is surely judging the nations, especially those that
have been greatly blessed with his favor. OV432:1; CR494:1
The Lord gives opportunities of choice, for there is no virtue
in choosing that which alone is possible. R3631:
Whether ye love the LORD -- Those who will endure
most patiently will give evidence of the best character.
R5395:6, R4910:2
Only by permitting false teachers could God demonstrate to
what extent his professed people are loyal to him. R5800:2
The Lord will not accept us merely because we are
consecrated. He requires that the consecration be proved.
R4910:4
Our obedience to the principles of righteousness is in
proportion to our love for the Lord. These principles,
obediently followed, develop character to be crystallized.
R3631:3
Deuteronomy 13:9
Put him to death -- Extending good will towards God's

enemies is obnoxious to God. The stoning of a condemned
criminal showed acquiescence and approval of God's
judgment. R764:5
Deuteronomy 13:10
That he die -- Thus the Lord proved Israel's determination

to obey him at the sacrifice of any earthly friendship if need
be. In this Israel was a type of both the world in the age to
come and the Church in the present time. R768:1
Deuteronomy 13:13
Serve other gods -- Those who fellowship with such have

not the spirit of the Lord. R1588:3
Deuteronomy 14
Deuteronomy 14:2
Chosen thee -- Not so much for their own sake as for

God's "Holy Name's Sake" (Ezek. 36:22)--for the sake of
love to all men. R518:1*
A peculiar people -- The Jews were a special people
whom God had separated from the world; they were a chosen
generation or race. R5460:3
The Bride of Christ will be his companion, his confidant, his
peculiar treasure. R1820:3
Unto himself -- Peter shows these words belong not to the
Jews, but to their antitype, the elect Church. (1 Pet. 2:9)
R1820:3
Deuteronomy 14:21
Ye shall not eat -- This was said to the Jews, not to us.
Q431:3
Deuteronomy 14:27
Shalt not forsake him -- Israel was voluntarily to

contribute to his support because "he hath no part nor
inheritance." (Num. 18:20) A52
The position of the Levites was not fortified by threats of
present or future calamity. OV11:2
No part nor Inheritance -- The Levites had as much right
to a share in the land as the other tribes. Instead of the land
some equivalent should be provided for them, and the tithe
was this reasonable and just provision. HG535:5
Deuteronomy 15
Deuteronomy 15:6
Thou shalt lend -- Earthly goods; in order that what you

have to offer of spiritual things may be more acceptable.
R2539:2
Shalt not borrow -- The New Creature has this as its rule
now. F564
Deuteronomy 15:12
Let him go free -- Picturing the release of mankind from

sin and death. R5356:1
Deuteronomy 15:15
Remember -- So must the Christian call to mind his

individual deliverances. R2031:6
This thing to day -- Here the word "today" is used in the
same sense as in our Lord's words to the dying thief. F669
Deuteronomy 15:21
Shalt not sacrifice it -- It must be our justified selves and

not our sins which we present. R1231:2
Such an injunction is necessary, as inborn selfishness suggests
that it would be a pity to sacrifice the best things. R3148:1
So children should be trained to consider God's service the
most honorable and most highly rewarding, and encouraged
to use their talents therein rather than to seek higher education
for secular pursuits. R3148:2
Deuteronomy 16
Deuteronomy 16:2
The passover -- Each house of Israel represented the

household of faith and each lamb represented the Lamb of
God which taketh away the sin of the world. F460
Deuteronomy 16:3
No leavened bread -- Leaven is a symbol of corruption,

error, sin. R5192:4; F464; T98
Symbolizing the putting away of sin. R5390:2
Bread of affliction -- So called because of their sufferings
in Egypt. R1800:2
Deuteronomy 16:10
Freewill offering -- Thus at Pentecost the Lord's followers

dispensed to all who were in readiness to receive the blessings
granted them through Jesus. R4307:2
Deuteronomy 17
Deuteronomy 17:14
I will set a king -- Judges developed the Israelites

individually; the kingdom tended to develop them along
national lines. The individual judgment better prepared the
people for the coming of Messiah. R4193:2
Deuteronomy 17:17
Multiply wives -- David sinned by taking heathen wives--

Absalom's mother being the daughter of Talmai, king of
Gashur, in Syria. R2024:6, R2016:3
Solomon so did for political purposes. He was influenced by
his wives to support idolatry. R2068:3
Deuteronomy 17:19
All the days of his life -- As a daily companion we must

ponder God's Word, permitting its principles to mold our
thoughts and guide our actions. R2016:5
Deuteronomy 17:20
Or to the left -- The only ruler of the world who will fully
meet the requirements of the divine law will be the Lord
Jesus. R2046:4
Deuteronomy 18
Deuteronomy 18:1
No part nor inheritance -- This shows that the Great

Company will have no inheritance in the earthly promises.
Their inheritance will be on the spirit plane. R4655:2
Deuteronomy 18:10
Pass through the fire -- The people of Canaan first

established the valley of Hinnom (Greek, Gehenna) as a place
of torture, offering their children in sacrifice to the god
Moloch. R3069:1
We have today, in nominal Christendom, a Moloch on a much
larger scale. They have come to think of the Almighty as a
ferocious deity who would take pleasure in the everlasting
torture of mankind. R3464:6, R2360:1
That useth divination -- The receiving of information
from the fallen angels by means of omens, oracles, etc.
R3068:3; PD42/52
An observer of times -- Augury, the fixing of lucky or
unlucky days. R3068:3
Or an enchanter -- A hypnotist. R3068:3
Or a witch -- A medium or mouthpiece of the fallen
angels. R2172:1; Q840:T
One claiming to exercise power over the affairs of others.
R3068:3
Spirit mediums, clairvoyants, clairaudients and the like are the
modern wizards and witches. Q840:T
Deuteronomy 18:11
Or a charmer -- Serpent-charmer, including those who

claim to be able to put spells on people and animals. R3068:4
Consulter with familiar spirits -- Or were familiar with
the spirits who were disobedient in the days of Noah.
PD42/52
Some mediums claim to have their special familiar spirit,
while others claim a general intercourse with the spirits.
R3068:4
Not to be visited, even "just to see how it is done." R3240:5
Or a wizard -- One who claims to be wise in hidden or
occult wisdom. R3068:4
Spirit mediums, clairaudients, clairvoyants and the like are the
modern wizards and witches. Q840:T
Or a necromancer -- One who professes to hold
communion with the dead. R3068:5
Those who claim to speak for the dead--spirit mediums.
HG726:1
Deuteronomy 18:12
An abomination -- God forewarned against the evil spirits

and their mediums. He said that they should not be permitted
to live in Israel. PD42/52; R5910:2
Deuteronomy 18:15
Will raise up -- The entire Gospel age has been the period
of The Christ's (Head and Body) raising up. D629; CR485:4
Now being prepared, educated, disciplined and instructed for
a missionary work. R715:5*
Raised above the condition of the world by being called with
a high calling. R2859:5
Also raised up in the sense of being transformed, walking in
newness of life. R2859:6
A Prophet -- A teacher. R4058:1, R2859:4
United with the offices of Priest and King. D637; OV89:4
The Christ--Jesus is the Head, and all now received into God's
family by the begetting of the holy Spirit are members of the
Body. R5839:4; D629, D637; F434; R5334:1, R2611:6;
Q193:3
Moses was the type of this greater Prophet, Messiah; and the
Law covenant was a type of the greater Law covenant of the
Millennial age. Fi; OV118:3
The Man Christ Jesus, by full obedience to the Law covenant,
attained the right to "Moses' seat," to supersede Moses as
Mediator. R5046:6
Believed in 1887 by the Samaritans as "one who will teach
the nations the good way ... so that the whole world will
repent of its sins." R906:2, 5*
Of thy brethren -- Not enough "Israelites indeed" being
found, divine wisdom has been selecting others from amongst
the Gentiles. R5334:1
Like unto me -- A diminutive representation of that great
Mediator, Teacher, Leader and King--the real Deliverer of
Israel and the world from bondage. R5333:2; A58, A78;
B177; R4595:5
Anti-typical. R2858:2
To whom every "Israelite indeed" must transfer his pledges
made under the Law to Moses, accepting Christ in Moses'
stead. F434
The likeness is not of a personal kind; but found rather in
position and work. R1321:3
As "our Passover," as "the Resurrection," as "the Life," Christ
is the Prophet like unto Moses. R1321:3
The humbler title of prophet, teacher, or representative of
God, represented also in Moses' case the kingly and priestly
functions. R3068:2
Ye shall hearken -- When the antitypical Moses, the Great
Mediator, shall have been completed he will lead the people
unto rest. R5388:2; CR485:4
Since Moses referred to Jesus as greater it was not disloyal to
Moses for people thus to accept Jesus. R5858:3
Deuteronomy 18:16
In Horeb -- Showing that the point of the illustration was

Moses' work at Sinai. R2858:5
Deuteronomy 18:18
Raise them up -- The entire Gospel age has been the

period of Christ's raising up. D629
A Prophet -- See comments on Deut. 18:15.
Speak unto them all -- The hidden truths of ancient
prophecy as well as new revelations of truth. F233; R1525:1
Deuteronomy 18:19
Shall come to pass -- In the Millennial age. F709; A243

That whosoever -- Every being, including the fallen
angels. R1679:3, R2612:1
Will not -- Will not submit to the rewriting of the divine
law in his character. F360
Would fight against the Kingdom and oppose its rule in any
particular after a reasonable trial. F709
In the Millennial age there will be upon man a different test,
not of faith, but of works, of obedience. F113
Hearken -- Perfect obedience will be required. T50;
E219; F113; R2611:6, R892:5
Learn to love righteousness and hate iniquity. A303
Gradually, line upon line, precept upon precept. F709
All the willing shall reach perfection; all the unwilling shall
be destroyed. D654; R5247:3 R2612:4, R892:5
Deuteronomy 18:20
That prophet shall die -- The law (of blasphemy) under

which Jesus was tried. R1809:5
Deuteronomy 19
Deuteronomy 19:2
Three cities -- Foreshadowing the refuge sinners may find

in Christ. R4079:6
An advanced step, tempering justice with mercy. R3092:3
Deuteronomy 19:3
Prepare thee a way -- Keep the roads to these cities well

repaired and marked, to afford the guilty a full opportunity for
a rapid flight to secure safety. R3092:3
Christ is easy of access to all who diligently seek him.
R4080:4
Deuteronomy 19:4
Ignorantly -- Cities of refuge were not for willful murder,

but only for manslaughter. R3092:3
Christ is no shelter for obstinate, unrepentant sinners.
R4079:6
Deuteronomy 19:6
Lest -- Under Jewish custom, two scribes accompanied the

fleer to persuade the avenger, if he should overtake, to permit
the culprit to reach the city of refuge. R3092:3,5
Avenger -- In the East it is considered the bounden duty of
the next of kin of the slain one to avenge his death. R3092:2
Justice is the avenger, seeking our lives for being sinners.
R4079:6
Deuteronomy 19:11
Lie in wait -- The fact that so many details are enumerated

here and in Numbers 35 and Joshua 20 shows that the trial
was to be a careful one. R3092:5
Deuteronomy 19:12
Elders -- The culprit was not free, but must stand trial
before the elders. R3092:5
Deuteronomy 19:15
Two witnesses -- In Jesus' trial there were many false

witnesses, but none agreed together. R1809:3
Deuteronomy 19:21
Life shall go for life -- The Scriptural basis for viewing

man's recovery from sin and death as a purchase--a
redemption. R5872:3
Human life must be considered sacred and a slayer shown no
pity. R3092:2
Divine justice required that a perfect human life must be
given for a perfect human life. No fallen man could be a
ransom, a corresponding price, for the perfect man Adam.
R5429:6; SM660:1, R661:1
If a thousand perfect men had sinned it would have required a
thousand perfect men to redeem them. R5429:6; SM661:1;
R5141:4
The death of an angel or an arch-angel could not have
redeemed man. R5429:6, R3174:5; SM660:1
A spirit being, veiled in flesh, "incarnate," could not have
been the Redeemer. R5622:5
The righteousness of the Law (Matt. 3:15) was fulfilled by
Jesus' offering of himself at Jordan as a "life for a life."
R1917:1
Eye for eye -- If inclined to carry out the Law of Moses we
must remember that it is not the time now for us to judge and
discipline the world. R5644:5
Deuteronomy 20
Deuteronomy 20:10
Fight against it -- Typifying how spiritual Israelites take

possession of their human bodies and, as New Creatures,
must conquer and destroy these tendencies of the flesh.
R5706:6
Deuteronomy 20:12
Make war against thee -- If we do not overcome and

destroy our fleshly tendencies, they will overcome and
destroy us. R5706:6
Deuteronomy 20:16
These people -- A menace to the morals of Israel--not only

idolatrous, but practicing licentious rites, divinations, etc.
R5706:5
God doth give thee -- It was not the Israelites who were to
decide to possess the land--but God was to give them
possession. R5707:1
Save alive nothing -- God had declared that their iniquity
had come to the full. It was a blessing to themselves and
others that they died at the time they did. R5706:5, R5707:1
Deuteronomy 20:17
Utterly destroy -- No injustice to the Amalekites, Hittites

and Canaanites since they were already under the death
sentence. F174
They typified the willful sinners of the Millennial age. F174
In the Kingdom man will also learn how to exterminate the
things of sin. R5707:1
Our warfare against spiritual foes must result in the utter
destruction of the fleshly mind, and it will also mean the
death of the human body. R5706:6
Deuteronomy 21
Deuteronomy 21:5
The priests -- A mediator between God and fallen

creatures. R4553:3
Deuteronomy 21:6
Wash their hands -- As Pilate did over Jesus' blood.

R3896:5
Deuteronomy 21:15
And another hated -- Loved less--as in "Esau have I

hated." (Rom. 9:13) F172
Deuteronomy 21:17
Double portion -- The birthright. R2124:5
Deuteronomy 21:22
Hang him on a tree -- Christ was made a curse by dying

on the cross--such a death being necessary for the Jews but
not needed for the remainder of mankind. R4868:6
It was divinely intended that our Lord should be treated as a
cursed one and hanged upon a tree instead of stoned.
R5221:3
Deuteronomy 22
Deuteronomy 22:10
An ox and an ass -- Because so unequal in strength and

tread it would be cruelty. The Mosaic Law was 32 centuries
ahead of its time. A50, A51; OV11:1; HG535:4
Deuteronomy 23
Deuteronomy 23:1
Privy member cut off -- Eunuchs were not fully accepted

as proselytes or granted privileges of the congregation-thus
the acceptance of the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:29-39) must
have been after the 70 weeks. R2964:6
A eunuch could be "a proselyte of the gate"--one who adopts
Jewish worship. R4332:6
Deuteronomy 23:4
Balaam -- Illustrating the Second Death class, forsaking

the way of righteousness for earthly gain. F166
Deuteronomy 23:7
Not abhor an Edomite -- Edom is symbolic of

Christendom. D15
Deuteronomy 23:21
Will surely require It -- "Better it is that thou shouldest

not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay." (Eccl.
5:5) R2154:4, R2081:1
Deuteronomy 24
Deuteronomy 24:14
An hired servant -- But no special legislation for the

priesthood. A53
The treatment of servants, strangers and the aged was the
subject of special legislation in the Mosaic Law. HG536:1
Deuteronomy 25
Deuteronomy 25:4
Not muzzle the ox -- For the good reason that any laborer
is worthy of his food. The Mosaic Law was ahead of its time.
A51; HG535:4
Deuteronomy 25:6
His name be not put out -- The object of this was to

prevent the obliteration of any family. R3854:1
Deuteronomy 25:19
Of Amalek -- Deferred until King Saul's day because (1)

they had no cavalry to cope with the marauders; and (2) to
permit the Amalekites to be a thorn in Israel's side for their
chastening. R4207:2
Type of willful sinners of the Millennial age. F174
Deuteronomy 26
Deuteronomy 26:5
A Syrian -- Jacob. B217; R599:3

And became there -- At the death of Jacob, the last of the
patriarchs. B213
A nation -- Jacob's descendants were first called the
"twelve tribes of Israel" after his death. (Gen. 49:28) A78
Deuteronomy 27
Deuteronomy 27:12
Mount Gerizim -- These peaks are 800 feet high and a

mile apart, separated by a valley 1500 feet wide. The
acoustics are such that conversation can be carried on from
peak to peak or peak to valley without difficulty. R479:5*
Deuteronomy 27:15
Cursed -- They were all in debt according to their

covenant, or bargain, made at Sinai. R976:6
Deuteronomy 27:22
Lieth with his sister -- The law whereby Absalom slew

Amnon. R2025:1
Deuteronomy 27:25
An innocent person -- Nephesh--soul, sentient being.

E334
Deuteronomy 27:26
Cursed -- In addition to the Adamic curse. R1725:1

Be he -- Any Israelite. R1725:1
Of this law -- This Law covenant. R1725:1
Shall say, Amen -- Accept its terms, not realizing it was a
covenant "unto death" (Rom. 7:10) and not unto life, because
of their inability to obey perfectly its just requirements.
R1724:5
Deuteronomy 28
Deuteronomy 28:1
Which I command thee -- The blessings and curses of that

covenant were only to the one nation, Israel. R1725:1
Set thee on high -- Yet the Ancient Worthies were
persecuted; counting on God's character to adjust the record
in the resurrection. R1409:2
Israel's temporal blessings typified the terms and conditions of
the Millennial age. F631
Deuteronomy 28:2
All these blessings -- The reverse is true with the Church--

temporal prosperity may mean danger. R2520:2
Deuteronomy 28:3
Blessed -- The blessings of the Law were earthly and not

related to the everlasting future. R1725:1
Shalt thou be -- Both as a nation and as individuals.
R1409:2
The covenant included every member of Israel, so that they
shared in common the blessings or curses. R5046:2,
R1725:2
Deuteronomy 28:5
Thy basket and thy store -- As exemplified in the

bountiful harvests after Josiah's reform. R2490:6
Deuteronomy 28:12
Thou shalt lend -- They are, as predicted, lenders to many

nations. R2125:1
Deuteronomy 28:15
All these curses -- Calamities or evils, as chastisements.

A125; R1780:2, R1271:5
As the punishments have been meted out to Israel, so may the
promises of restoration be relied upon. R2525:5
Deuteronomy 28:16
In the city -- Physical evils of any sort, not moral evils.

R2029:2
Not applicable to natural disasters on Gentile cities. R2029:2
In the field -- As indicated by Haggai. (Hag. 1:4-6)
R2520:1
Deuteronomy 28:25
Cause thee to be smitten -- As in the captivity of the ten-tribe

kingdom. R1372:5
Deuteronomy 28:49
Bring a nation -- The Roman nation, in the end of the

Jewish age. The fulfillment of this prophecy shows that the
Law covenant is still in force upon the nation of Israel.
R1729:6, R1730:1; C300
As the eagle flieth -- In the Roman siege, Roman eagles
were planted on her walls. R233:1
Deuteronomy 28:52
Shall besiege thee -- The Roman siege. R504 7:4,

R1730:1
Deuteronomy 28:53
Fruit of thine own body -- In the Roman siege women

took babies from their breasts and roasted them for food.
R233:1
Deuteronomy 28:63
Shall come to pass -- The curses have had a very literal

fulfillment upon the Israel of our Lord's day. (1 Thess. 2:15,
16) C300
Deuteronomy 28:64
Shall scatter thee -- Their pride led the Jews to overlook

these statements of God's prophets. R4782:2
As the rich man died and was tormented in the flame. (Luke
16:24) R802:3
Among all people -- Throughout the Gospel age;
meanwhile the Law covenant remains in force. R1730:1
Deuteronomy 28:65
Find no ease -- If the British nation be any part of Israel

(as Anglo-Israelites claim) verses 64 & 65 do not appear to be
fulfilled. C300
Deuteronomy 29
Deuteronomy 29:5
Forty years -- As Israel, because of lack of faith, had its

wilderness journey of forty years, so on account of lack of
faith at our Lord's first advent they were made to wander the
past nineteen centuries. R3079:3
Deuteronomy 29:19
Drunkenness -- Intoxication with false doctrines.

R3962:5; D614
Deuteronomy 29:21
This book of the law -- Particularly the book of

Deuteronomy. R3080:2
Deuteronomy 29:29
The secret things -- Questions respecting which the Lord

has made no particular revelation; thus unprofitable for
consideration. R3357:4
The Word of God is so complete as to leave no room for
legitimate curiosity respecting the works of darkness, the
occult. R4087:5
Belong unto the LORD -- There is so much in God's
Word that is simple and plain and well substantiated that
far-away speculations are well nigh inexcusable. R4008:6
Which are revealed -- In the Word of God. B18
Belong unto us -- The Lord's people are to be careful to
study and obey all that the Lord has commanded as it
becomes due to be understood. R3357:4
Deuteronomy 30
Deuteronomy 30:1
Shall come to pass -- Under the New covenant. R5047:2,

R1729:6
Deuteronomy 30:3
Turn thy captivity -- Israel restored under the new

conditions of grace. R3071:2
Gather thee -- Not from Babylon or minor captivities but
the great regathering from all nations (Jer. 32:37-42). This is
a deliverance which will need no repetition, and is already
beginning. R1483:5
After their "double" of punishment. SM398:1
From all nations, and with considerable wealth and general
prosperity. OV67:1
Compare Rom. 11:25-30. R3071:2
Deuteronomy 30:4
Gather thee -- The basis for Nehemiah's prayer. (Neh.

1:4-11) R1496:4
Deuteronomy 30:6
Circumcise thine heart -- Signifies a cutting off, a

separation from the flesh, its aims, hopes, desires, etc.
R3022:3
See Jer. 31:33, 34. R3071:2
Deuteronomy 30:8
Return and obey -- Under the blessed arrangement of the

New covenant it will not be too difficult for them. R3071:3
Deuteronomy 30:11
Neither is it far off -- Not difficult to understand.

R1970:2
Deuteronomy 30:12
It -- Christ. R1970:3
Deuteronomy 30:14
The word -- The truth which we preach. R1970:3

Nigh unto thee -- Reasonable and plain. R1970:3
In thy mouth -- The first outward evidence given of a faith
in the heart. R3071:6
Deuteronomy 30:15
See I have -- Moses, type of the Great Prophet (The

Christ, Head and Body). R2611:5
Set before thee -- Israel, type of the whole world of
mankind. R2611:5
Spiritual Israel now, the world in the age to come. R401:5*
This day -- Type of the 1000-year day of trial, the
For the Church, the Gospel age. R401:3*
Here the words "this day" are used in the same sense as in our
Lord's words to the dying thief. (Luke 23:43) F669
Life ... and death -- A choice for the whole world through
Israel, their type. R401:2*
Eternal life or the Second Death. R2611:5
In the 1000-year day all will be called upon to decide under
that most favorable opportunity for righteousness and life or
sin and death. A choice must be made. R2611:5
Not heaven or hell, but life is the promise of the Law. Q328;
R822:3*
It was only in the typical sense that the Jewish nation was on
trial for life or death. R4598:3
Death is not a friend, but an enemy. R625:6*
Deuteronomy 30:16
Command -- In the sense of laying out plainly and

distinctly God's only terms for life eternal. R3072:3
That thou mayest live -- Jesus' life would have been

protected had he not voluntarily submitted and laid it down.
R4642:4
Deuteronomy 30:17
Drawn away -- Deceived or allured. R401:6*

Worship other gods -- For spiritual Israel, the gods of
wealth, fame, family circle and home, or self. R3072:5
Deuteronomy 30:19
I call heaven and earth -- Such words are very forceful at

this time, for Moses was about to die. R5528:1
Life and death -- Typical of the great second trial and its
issues of life and death-second (or restored) life and Second
Death. R892:3
Blessing and cursing -- There is a curse for every one who
loves unrighteousness; there is a blessing for every one who
loves righteousness. R5247:3
Life is the blessing; death is the curse. R5747:4
Choose life -- By complying with the conditions on which
God said they may have it. R363:1
Typical of the individual trial of the whole world during the
great 1000-year day. R2611:5
Israel was already under condemnation of death through
Adam's disobedience and could not be placed on full trial
again until redeemed. R892:2, R2611:4
In the present time the Lord himself declares that it is a
narrow way we walk and "few there be that find it." (Matt.
7:14) HGI60:6
Deuteronomy 31
Deuteronomy 31:3
And Joshua -- Type of Christ. A79
Deuteronomy 31:9
Wrote this law -- That the first five books of the Bible
were written by Moses is a reasonable inference; the account
of his death and burial being properly added by his secretary.
A43; R1623:4, R1145:3
Deuteronomy 31:11
Thou shalt read this law -- Made public, thus preventing

designing men from successfully tampering with the rights of
the people. A50; HG535:2
Deuteronomy 31:16
Sleep with thy fathers -- From God's standpoint they only

sleep. R5073:2
The good and bad are gathered to their fathers in death, the
tomb-sheol, hades. R5151:1
Deuteronomy 31:26
Side of the ark -- To show that Christ would meet in full

all the requirements of God's perfect Law, and also that legal
authority would be vested in him as the Law-executor. T121
Deuteronomy 31:29
Utterly corrupt yourselves -- Thus deserving the curses of

chapter 28. R232:6
Deuteronomy 31:30
This song -- "The song of Moses, the servant of God."

(Rev. 15:3) R168:4*
Prophetic. R3078:2
Deuteronomy 32
Deuteronomy 32:2
Drop as the rain -- "The words that I speak unto you, they
are spirit and they are life." (John 6:63) R1937:2
My speech -- "Never man spake like this man" (John
7:46); "Grace is poured into thy lips." (Psa. 45:2) R1937:2
Distil as the dew -- "All bare him witness, and wondered
at the gracious words that proceeded out of his mouth."
(Luke 4:22) R1937:2
As the showers -- "They could not take hold of his words
... before the people; and they marveled at his answers and
held their peace." (Luke 20:26) R1937:2
Deuteronomy 32:4
His work is perfect -- Even though he may temporarily

permit evil angels and evil men to pervert and misuse it. F17
Therefore God's law is perfect. R386:5
Therefore God is not the author of sin. R1225:2, R870:3;
Q359:5
He does not do evil so that good may follow. R3145:4 The
mentally, physically and morally blemished are not God's
workmanship. E309; R2912:1, R2285:1, R5360:5
Adam was physically and morally perfect. E406; R2394:5,
R1719:4, R386:5; Q741:2
Thus man will be perfect at the end of the Millennium.
R5167:2
Satan was created perfect but fell by ambition. F612;
SM95:1
Deuteronomy 32:10
The apple of his eye -- Nothing shall by any means injure

these. R4462:5
Deuteronomy 32:11
Stirreth up her nest -- Mixes the thorny outside with the

downy inside so the young will leave the nest and learn to fly.
R3351:4*
The Lord permits trials, persecutions, etc.--for strengthening
and helping his people. R4335:2
Deuteronomy 32:17
Unto devils -- Ritualism in the Christian church is of

pagan origin. R1991:4*
Mediums of the fallen spirits. God commanded that any
amongst them who became such a medium should be put to
death. R5910:2; PD42/52
Not to God -- To whom the ransom was paid. R685:4
Deuteronomy 32:21
They -- Paul quotes part of this prophecy and applies it to

"all the house of Israel" living in his day, both in Jerusalem
and scattered throughout the world. (Rom. 10:19-21)
R2125:3
Deuteronomy 32:22
For a fire -- The fire of God's jealousy. E357

And shall burn -- "They shall be burnt with hunger." (vs.
24) E357
The lowest hell -- Sheol, oblivion, the tomb, the state of
death--a figurative representation of the utter ruin of Israel as
a nation. R2599:3; E357; R5154:2
Sheol, admitted by Pastor L. S. White simply to denote the
world of departed spirits and not of itself to teach anything
about the punishment of the wicked. HG209:3*
Deuteronomy 32:26
Scatter them -- The whole house of Israel. R2125:2

The remembrance -- The same Hebrew word is rendered
"scent" in Hos. 14:7 and "memorial" in Esther 9:28-so,
pleasant remembrance. R2125:2
Deuteronomy 32:30
One chase a thousand -- Harvest laborers, though few in

number, accomplish the harvest work. R1349:5, R6023:1
Deuteronomy 32:35
Vengeance -- The time of trouble. D73, D549
Deuteronomy 32:36
The LORD shall judge -- Jehovah himself is the supreme

Judge, yet the "Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all
judgment unto the Son." (John 5:22) F396
Punish--perhaps chasten an individual with business reverses
or with physical disease. R5957:2
Deuteronomy 32:39
No god with me -- Not triune. R1052:5*

I wound, and I heal -- It is the wounded heart that is ready
to be bound up and to be healed and to be transformed.
HG270:3
Deuteronomy 32:43
Rejoice -- These victories shall ultimately be attained by

all the Israel of God--the Jew first and also the Gentile, during
O ye nations -- All the true Israel of God, all who shall
become Israelites according to the faith and obedience of
Abraham. R3078:3
And to his people -- --after divine wrath has
burned out their national transgression the Lord will speak
peaceably toward Israel. E357
Deuteronomy 32:49
Mount Nebo -- It is quite possible that Elijah was taken

from this same mountain. R3416:3
Deuteronomy 32:50
Die in the mount -- Mount Nebo. PD37/48

If the meekest man in all the earth was overcome by the
circumstances of his position, it should not surprise us if we
find that in spiritual Israel some who start out meek and
humble become more or less arrogant. R3866:4
Deuteronomy 32:52
Thou shalt not go -- Although usually a type of Christ-in

the one instance of disobediently smiting the rock Moses
became a type of Christ's followers
who put him to open shame and who, in consequence, will die
the Second Death. (Heb. 10:29) R4058:1, R3077:4, R5333:3
Deuteronomy 33
Deuteronomy 33:1
Children of Israel -- Typical here of the elect 144,000.

R3078:4
Deuteronomy 33:2
From Sinai -- A type of the Kingdom of God. R4037:5

Deuteronomy 33:3
Sat down at thy feet -- Not literal feet, but figurative as

truly as in Zech. 14:4; Psa. 91:12; Isa. 52:7; Psa. 8:6, Psa.
110:1; Eph. 6:15. B157
Deuteronomy 33:14
Sun -- Not its body, but its light and influence. R3344:2*
Moon -- Not the orb, but its shining. R3344:2*
Deuteronomy 33:17
Push the people -- The Jews are prosperous as are no other

people and, in a peculiar manner, are pushing or goring all
peoples to the ends of the earth-so much so that every nation
is seeking to get rid of them. R2125:1
Deuteronomy 34
Deuteronomy 34:1
And Moses -- The scribe, who wrote the book at Moses'

dictation, finishes the account as an historian. R3078:4
Fully submitted himself to the Lord in meekness, in humility;
a type of the still-greater prophet, the Christ of glory.
R4054:6, R5333:3
Acclaimed as a statesman, general, lawgiver, poet and orator.
R4055:1
Our Lord excepted, no character of history stands out as that
of Moses: combining strength with humility, wisdom with
love and gentleness. R3077:1
The top of Pisgah -- 3586 feet above sea-level. R3077:6
Deuteronomy 34:4
This is the land -- The antitypical Moses is now getting

the antitypical vision of the glories of the age to come.
R4054:1
Caused thee to see -- With the eye of faith we perceive the
blessing of all the families of the earth. R4054:1
Thou shalt not go over -- One of the reasons was the
second smiting of the rock. (Num. 20:2-12) R3077:3
As we (the Body of Christ) look into the beauties of the
Millennial epoch, the Lord tells us that we shall not go over to
possess it. R4054:3
Deuteronomy 34:5
So Moses -- Here Moses was the type of the Law covenant

which must end before the people can enter into their rest.
R3077:5
Died there -- Here a type of the Second Death Class; but
by no means implying that Moses experienced Second Death.
R5333:3, R4058:1, R3077:4
Not from weakness and infirmity of age (vs. 7); he died
according to the word of the Lord. R3077:6
Moses will sleep with his fathers until the divinely appointed
time when, under Messiah's Kingdom, he will be resurrected.
He was seen on the Mount of Transfiguration only in a vision.
R5333:5, R201:1
Deuteronomy 34:6
No man knoweth -- As with Elijah. R3378:1, R2153:2

He who hid the body of Moses so that none could find it was
likewise able to hide the body of Jesus. R3376:6; B130
Of his sepulchre -- It was appropriate that the type should
not show an earthly grave since the antitype has no hope of an
earthly resurrection, of which hope the grave is a symbol.
R4054:5
Unto this day -- Representing that the Law covenant was
not to be revived. R3078:1
Probably to hinder the Israelites from carrying Moses'
mummy which, in after times, might have become a
temptation to idolatry. R4054:4, R5333:3, R3078:1
Deuteronomy 34:7
120 years old -- 40 years spent as an Egyptian prince; 40

years as a shepherd; 40 years as Israel's leader, lawgiver,
statesman-prophet, priest and king. R3077:2, R4054:5
Deuteronomy 34:9
And Joshua -- Type of the New covenant and of its

Mediator, Jesus, the Deliverer. R3077:5
In his 83rd year, yet full of vigor--loudly confirming the
Bible's teaching that Adam was created perfect and
contradicting the Evolution theory. R5335:2, R4060:3
Now 80 years of age. R3078:4
Heakened unto him -- Joshua. R3078:5
Israel unquestionably accepted the Lord's choice of a leader,
evidently learning something by their experience in the
wilderness. R3079:2
As the LORD commanded -- The Christ, during the
Millennial Kingdom, will attempt nothing on behalf of
mankind in violation of the laws of God.
R3078:5
Deuteronomy 34:10
Knew face to face -- Meaning that Moses enjoyed a

closeness of fellowship and favor with the Lord rather than
that he really looked into the face of Jehovah. R4055:2
Joshua
General
Joshua, whose name signifies deliverer, or savior, became
Israel's leader and under him they won great victories and
actually entered the land promised in the covenant. A79 He
was of the tribe of Ephraim, of one of its leading families, his
grandfather Elishama having been a captain of the army of the
Ephraimites, 40,500 in number at the organization of the
Israelites soon after the exodus. R3079:1 At the time of his
taking Moses' place he was in his 83rd year, yet full of vigor,
and evidently the best qualified man for the position. For
twenty-seven years Joshua was the leader of Israel, faithful to
God and to the people. He not only led them through Jordan
and directed in the conquering of city after city but he also
divided the land among the tribes and governed the people
with great acceptance, dying at the age of 110. It would not
do for us to contrast Joshua with Moses as a leader, for they
were men of totally different types. Indeed, anyone
contrasted with Moses would be disadvantaged, so high did
that great statesman tower above the average of humanity then
or since. But while Joshua could not be Moses, the leader,
commander, law-giver, he was faithful as a follower of
Moses, as one who obeyed the divine law, and whose faith
and influence with the people were helpful to them. He was
just what God wished him to be, and whoever is worthy of
such a testimony is truly great. R5335:2
Joshua's training as general assistant, private secretary,
etc., to Moses, made him familiar with the divine plans and
methods. To him was entrusted the command of the people in
their first battle. It was Joshua who went with Moses into
Mount Sinai; it was he who led one of the companies of spies
. . . who brought back a good report and who courageously
stood with Moses in advising that the people have faith in
God and proceed to conquer and possess the promised land.
He must have been either the oldest man in all the nation or
next to the oldest, for only himself and Caleb of all the nation
that were above twenty years of age at the exodus remained
alive. R4060:6
Moses did not lead the people into the land of promise; it
was Joshua--their new leader--who led them over Jordan.
Thus the type shows that mankind will enter into the
promised land not by the Law, but by a Savior. R5388:4,
R3079:3
The expulsion and destruction of sinful nations by Israel
was a type of how the people of God today are to take
possession of their human bodies. We are as New Creatures
to conquer, to destroy, these tendencies of the flesh that
would enslave us. This warfare of Israel against their enemies
may also be a picture of conditions in the Millennium, when
the world, under the guidance of Christ and the Church, will
be brought into a condition which will fit them to have
possession of the whole earth. R5706:6
Joshua 1
Joshua 1:1
The LORD spake -- Typifying his messages of

encouragement to the Christ company in the present time.
R3079:5
Unto Joshua -- Type of Christ. A79
Originally, "Hoshea"--salvation; to which was prefixed
"Je"--Jehovah (Num. 13:16). Thus it became "Jehoshua"--
Jehovah's salvation. This was shortened to Joshua and Jeshua
(Neh. 8:17). Greek form is Jesus. R5335:3, R4060:3,
R5296:5
The oldest or next-to-oldest man in Israel. R4061:1
Moses' minister -- Moses' Prime Minister. R3079:1
This training made him familiar with the divine plans and
methods as understood and practiced by Moses. R4060:6
Yet void of that ambition which led to the overthrow of
Korah, Dathan and Abiram. R3079:2
Joshua 1:2
Now therefore arise -- Being meek, he waited for the Lord

to authorize his taking command. R4061:1
Go over this Jordan -- In the case of the Church, from a
state of sin and degradation into harmony with God. R5509:6
The land -- As Joshua was to deliver the Lord's people and
give them possession of the land of promise; so Jesus is to
deliver spiritual Israel and give them their inheritance.
R5296:5
Give to them -- Not because of their worthiness, but
because of his favor toward them, according to his own plan.
R5335:6
Joshua 1:3
Foot shall tread upon -- Nothing was theirs except as the

soles of their feet claimed possession. It was theirs by faith in
that promise--a faith that would lead to works. Likewise
spiritual Israelites must claim the promises to obtain them.
R4061:2
Joshua 1:4
Of the Hittites -- The typical enemies of Israel picture the

enemies we find entrenched in our own bodies. R5509:6
Recent excavations in Assyria show that at this time the
Hittites were a mighty people. R3079:6
Shall be your coast -- The boundaries outlined are
practically the same as those possessed during Solomon's
reign. R4061:3
Joshua 1:5
Will be with thee -- "Without me ye can do nothing"

(John 15:5)--he is with us only when we do what is clearly
indicated in God's Word. R4061:6
Typifying that during the Millennial age the victory of Christ
shall be by and through the Father's power. R3079:5
God did not say to him, "Remember your age and long
experience and previous successes as a general." R4061:4
Joshua 1:6
Be strong -- In your arms and shoulders--aggressive

warfare. R4061:6
God had not promised to give them amicable possessions;
they were to fight and conquer their foes. R5509:3
Of a good courage -- Have full confidence; not in
yourself, but in God. R3079:2, R4064:5
Not the courage born of egotism and self-reliance, nor of
recklessness; but, recognizing our own insufficiency, looking
to the Lord for assistance. R5510:4
Associated with lower limbs, implying defensive power.
R4061:6
Joshua 1:7
Be thou strong -- The basis for their strength and courage

was the promise of God to Abraham that he would bring his
seed into the land of Canaan. R5509:2
Joshua, as successor of Moses, needed this encouragement on
the occasion of the Israelites entering the promised land.
R5296:1, R5509:2
Against Israel's enemies, entrenched in the land of Canaan.
R5296:2
Very courageous -- Morally courageous. R4062:3
The New Creatures, under the leadership of the antitypical
Joshua, are to overcome the weaknesses of the fallen nature.
R5296:3
Strength of character and courage are needed now when the
iniquity of the whole world has come to the full; and all
present governments are about to be swept away. R5707:4
There is a difference between being strong and being
courageous. The Great Company will finally overcome, with
the Lord's help, yet they will not have been very courageous.
R5296:5
Turn not from it -- Require neither more nor less than the
divine standard, keeping in absolute alignment with the divine
Word; a rebuke to those who think the eternal torment theory
should be taught whether in the Bible or not. R3080:1
Joshua 1:8
Meditate therein -- Those who carefully lay up the

treasures of divine wisdom that they may live by them, are
those that truly keep the commandments of God. R2093:6*
Day and night -- Not literally; but in the sense of making
it your guide and director at all times and in all things.
R4062:4
Good success -- For spiritual Israelites success in making
their calling and election sure will be proportionate to their
obedience to the divine message. R4062:5, R3080:5
Joshua 1:9
I commanded thee -- It is not our battle, but the Lord's.

R4061:6
Neither be thou dismayed -- Through fear of the giants of
weaknesses and sin-habits; nor through the thought of the
high walls and fortifications of entrenched sin. R4064:2
Joshua 1:11
Within three days -- Representing the fifth, sixth and

seventh thousand-year days. R3080:6
Joshua's promptness and zeal here displayed are worthy of
emulation. R4062:6
Prepare you victuals -- Representing the Church with her
Lord as the Bread from heaven. "We, being many, are one
bread." (1 Cor. 10:17) R3081:4
Joshua 1:12
Half the tribe of Manasseh -- Also given a large tract east

of Jordan; showing how Joseph's branches (in Manasseh)
went "over the wall" or river. (Gen. 49:22) R2124:6
Joshua 2
Joshua 2:1
Jericho -- Type of Babylon. R4054:2

Rahab -- In this instance a type of the Great Company.
R4054:2
Joshua 2:16
Three days -- Representing the fifth, sixth and seventh

thousand-year days. R3080:6
Joshua 2:18
Of scarlet -- Symbol of the blood of the ransom. T34,

T109; R4070:6
Joshua 3
Joshua 3:1
Came to Jordan -- Meaning "Judged down,"

"Condemned," typifying the sentence which has rested for
6000 years against our race. R3086:4
To the New Creation Jordan symbolizes consecration.
R4063:3, R5351:3
Joshua 3:3
The people -- Representing justified believers in Jesus.

R4063:3
Joshua 3:4
Two thousand cubits -- About three-quarters of a mile.

R4063:4
Upstream, thus prominent in Israel's eyes. R3085:6
Joshua 3:5
Sanctify yourselves -- As at Mt. Sinai with the giving of

the Law; to set apart by purifying from sin and all earthly
things, abstaining from all but necessary food to develop the
proper heart condition. R4063:2
A condition of the call--both of the present time and of the
Joshua 3:6
Priests -- Representing the Little Flock. R4063:2

Joshua 3:7
Said unto Joshua -- Type of Christ. A79; R4063:2
Joshua 3:10
Drive out -- Destroy, not cast into eternal torment.

R3085:3
The conquests of Canaan represent the spiritual battles of the
consecrated. R5351:3
From before you -- "The earth is the Lord's" (Psa 24:1).

He has the right to do as he will with his own property.
R3085:1
The Canaanites, and -- These nations symbolize the
weaknesses and imperfections of the fallen nature which are
to be blotted out during the Millennial age. R3085:2
Typifying the sins with which we must contend earnestly.
R4064:2
Joshua 3:11
Behold, the ark -- Type of The Christ. T121

As Israel had nothing to fear because the ark stood in the
midst of the threatening danger, so the Christian has nothing
to fear as long as he realizes the divine presence and approval.
R1857:2
Joshua 3:13
Shall be cut off -- The cessation of Adamic death to all

those desiring to be the Lord's. R4063:2
Upon an heap -- See comments on Josh. 3:16.
Joshua 3:14
Removed from their tents -- The lack of murmurings

implies that the wilderness experiences had taught valuable
lessons of faith. R5345:1
Pass over Jordan -- Representing the passing of mankind
into the new dispensation. R4063:2
Each Christian crosses Jordan in the sense of beginning a new
life of devotion to God. R5345:5
Joshua 3:15
Of the priests -- Typifying the Royal Priesthood.

R3086:5
Were dipped -- Representing that the Royal Priesthood
must first pass into Jordan before any of the people can pass
over. R3086:5
Jordan overfloweth -- Supposed to have been about 500
feet wide; ordinarily about 90 feet wide. R5345:1, R4063:1
Joshua 3:16
Upon an heap -- The Lord used natural means. R3085:6

Behind a temporary dam caused by a landslide. Such a dam
was formed in AD 1267, leaving the bed of the Jordan below
it dry for several hours. R4063:5, R5345:3, R3086:1;
PD37/48
It was so well timed by the Lord that when the priests stepped
up to the water, bearing the ark, the water began to subside.
PD37/48; R4063:4, R5345:3
Very far from -- A great way off--at the city of Adam.
R4063:5, R3086:1
The city Adam -- About 20 miles above, where there is a
narrow gorge. R4063:5, R5345:3
Joshua 3:17
Ark of the covenant -- Representing the divine promise

under which they had left Egypt, hoping for grand results.
R5345:2
Midst of Jordan -- Typifying that the Royal Priesthood
give their lives for the life of the world. R3086:5
The ark, representing the Lord, effects the cancellation of the
death sentence so that the Millennial blessings might be
obtained. R3086:5
All the Israelites -- In all, about two million. R3086:5
Until all the people -- A limited time to cross over, "now
is an acceptable time." (2 Cor. 6:2) R4064:1
The return of the waters represents the Second Death.
R4063:2
Clean over Jordan -- God's people now pass from death
unto life-dying to old interests and entering into the new
inheritance. R4603:4, R5598:2; PD37/48
Joshua 4
Joshua 4:6
These stones -- Twelve stones were taken from the bed of

the river and piled on the shore as a memorial; while twelve
from the shore were placed in the bed of the river as a similar
memorial. R5345:2
To bear witness to future generations of this great act of
divine providence on behalf of the twelve tribes of Israel.
R5345:3
Joshua 4:9
Twelve stones -- (In the river), typifying the 144,000 of

the elect as dying in the midst of Jordan so that all might pass
over. R3086:5
Joshua 4:14
Magnified Joshua -- Type of Christ. A79
Joshua 4:18
Unto their place -- Representing the Second

Death, which will be the portion of any who, in the
Millennial age, renounce the goodly heritage which the Lord
has provided for the redeemed world. R4063:2
Joshua 4:19
Tenth day of the first month -- Forty years to the day

from when they set out from Egypt to Palestine. R4063:1
There the Jubilee cycles began to count. R1980:3
From their entrance into the promised land in the spring to the
spring of AD 1875 was the total 3449 years of the Jubilee
cycles. HG59:6
Joshua 4:20
Gilgal -- There seem to have been several Gilgals, meaning

"circle"; so-called from places where circles of memorial
stones were set up. R3344:2*
Joshua 5
Joshua 5:3
And circumcised -- Symbolizing a cutting off, a separation

from the flesh, its aims, hopes and desires. R1857:3,
R4070:3
The period of wilderness wanderings was a period of partial
disfavor with the Lord, during which both circumcision and
the annual commemoration of their Passover ceased. The
renewal of both when they entered Canaan marked the return
of divine favor. R3086:3
Joshua 5:6
Forty years -- Typifying the 19 centuries of the Gospel

age. R3079:3
Joshua 5:7
Joshua circumcised -- Typifying that the first work of the

Millennial age will be a consecration to the Lord. R3086:6
Typifying, as far as the Royal Priesthood is concerned, a
putting away of sin from the will. R4070:3
Joshua 5:10
Kept the passover -- Typifying that in the Millennial age

the work of redemption through the precious blood of Christ
will again be prominently brought to the attention of all who
wish to become God's people. R3086:6
Typifying, as far as the Royal Priesthood is concerned,
communion with Christ in his sacrifice. R3087:2
Fourteenth day of the month -- There the Jubilee cycles
began to count. R1980:3
Joshua 5:11
Old corn -- Their first year was a Sabbath year. OV100:3
Joshua 5:12
Manna ceased -- In the Millennial Kingdom mankind will

no longer be dependent upon the divine revelation contained
in the Scriptures. The new dispensation will have spiritual
food and sustenance of its own. R3087:1
Fruit of the land -- Typifying the new sources of spiritual
food in the Millennium. R3087:1
Typifying, in the case of the Royal Priesthood, every word
that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. R3087:2
Joshua 5:14
Captain of the host -- An angel had materialized for the

purpose of communicating the divine plans to Joshua.
R5343:3
Joshua 6
Joshua 6:1
Jericho -- A walled city about five miles from the Jordan.

R5343:2
Typifying, for the Royal Priesthood, the weaknesses and
shortcomings of the flesh. R4070:3
None went out -- The salvation of the Lord cannot go out
and come into the world with haste. C284*; R751:1*
Joshua 6:2
I have given -- Our power over our natural desires

(represented by the Jerichoites) must come from God.
R1857:3
Into thine hand -- The "old man" of our fallen nature is to
be utterly destroyed by us as "New Creatures" under the lead
of the real Joshua--Jesus. R1857:3
Joshua 6:4
Seven times -- Showing completeness. R1857:6

With the trumpets -- Typifying the proclamation of God's
Word against sin and showing that he is able and willing to
give the New Creatures victory over their carnal propensities.
R1858:4
Joshua 6:5
The wall -- A necessity owing to frequent incursions from

Syria and Egypt, being on a main line of travel. R5343:2
Showing that the natural appetites are protected by the will of
the flesh, which must be broken down. R1857:3
Fall down flat -- Possibly, though very unlikely, caused by
vibrations of the musical chord, or by the march-step of the
Israelites. R3087:6
Joshua 6:14
Six days -- Nothing accomplished except the witnessing.

Represents 6000 years in which sin has been entrenched and
impregnable, and God's people have merely witnessed against
it. R5344:1
Joshua 6:15
Seventh day -- Represents the great seventh day, 1000

years of Messiah's reign. R5344:1
Seven times -- The citadel of evil will be surrounded
completely. R5344:1
Joshua 6:16
Joshua -- Type of Christ. A79

Shout -- Not until we have faith in God's Word can we
blend the shout of victory with the shout of the trumpet and
see the obstacles fall. R4071:4
Joshua 6:19
Silver, and gold -- Consecrated in advance for the

furnishment and adornment of the Tabernacle and Temple.
R5343:2
Of brass and Iron -- Picturing true Israel's ordinary
possessions. R4071:1
Joshua 6:20
With the trumpets -- Typifying the trumpet notes of the

Royal Priesthood; of obedience to God and opposition to sin.
R3087:4
Giving forth the Bible message that ultimately sin shall be
destroyed. R5344:1
That the wall -- Representing the strong walls of sin and
error. R5344:1
Possibly weakened by vibrations of the trumpets and shouts.
R3087:6
Fell down -- Typifying the utter overthrow of the power of
sin. R3087:4
Probably the tremor of an earthquake, under divine direction,
caused the fall. R5343:6
Flat -- Seems too strong a translation to represent properly
the original. The wall crumbled in front of the Ark. The
section of the wall where Rahab's house was did not fall.
R5343:5
Joshua 6:21
Utterly destroyed -- Typifying the complete extermination

of sin in its every form. R3087:4
Showing how the "old man," our fallen nature, is to be utterly
destroyed by us as New Creatures, under the lead of the real
Joshua, Jesus. R1857:3, R4070:3
This was no injustice as they were all under the death
sentence anyway. F174
Joshua 6:24
And the gold -- Representing our treasures. R4071:1

And of iron -- Representing our ordinary possessions.
R4071:1
Into the treasury -- All the spiritual Israelite possesses is
to be consecrated to the Lord's service. R1858:1
Joshua 6:25
Saved Rahab -- Typifying the rescue, at the time of

Babylon's fall, of the Great Company. R4054:2
Shows that some of our members once enemies of the new
nature may be so transformed as to become servants of
righteousness, through full consecration. R1857:6, R4070:6
Dwelleth in Israel -- She afterward married into the tribe
of Judah; and has the honor of being one of the ancestors of
our Lord. R4070:6
Joshua 7
Joshua 7:1
Accursed -- Should read "devoted." All the spoils of

Jericho were devoted to the Lord in advance. R5350:6
Achan -- Typifying those who come into outward
conformity with the Lord but secretly try to hold on to some
sins. R3087:5
Joshua 7:3
Let not all -- Anticipating their enemies to be terror-stricken,

so as to render little or no defense. R5350:3
Joshua 7:9
Unto thy great name -- Pray, pleading God's glory.

R5380:6*
Joshua 7:11
Accursed -- Should read "devoted." All the spoils of

Jericho were devoted to the Lord in advance. R5350:6
Joshua 7:25
And Joshua said -- As a good illustration of the technique

of the so-called Higher Critics, see their comments on this
verse contained in article R3397:5
Burned them -- Picturing the Second Death, which will be
the ultimate punishment of all who willfully reject the Lord's
ways; Achan himself will share in the redemption. R5351:1
Stoned them with stones -- Representing the Millennial
age rule, when all who even secretly love evil will be
manifest and destroyed. R3091:2
Joshua 8
Joshua 8:33
Mount Gerizim -- These peaks are 800 feet high and a

mile apart, separated by a valley of 1500 feet wide. The
acoustics are such that conversation can be carried on from
peak to peak, or from peak to valley, without difficulty.
R479:5, R3091:2
Joshua 8:34
Read all the words -- In the Millennial age, under the

antitypical Joshua, the law of God will be distinctly set before
all as a standard of conduct. R3091:2
Joshua 10
Joshua 10:3
Adoni-zedek . . . Japhia -- Mentioned by name in the Tel-el-Amarna

tablets of Egypt. R1652:2, R1994:1
Joshua 10:10
And the LORD -- Not Joshua. R3344:3*

Discomfited them -- Used violence on them. R3344:3*
Slaughter at Gibeon -- Type of God's deliverance of
regathered Israel. D555
In the last days, the Lord "shall be wroth as in the valley of
Gibeon." (Isa. 28:21) R564:6
Joshua 10:11
Hailstones -- The immense hailstones killing so many

seems quite in line with the interpretation that the day was
dark instead of light. PD38/48
Joshua 10:12
Then spake Joshua -- Type of Christ. A79

Sun -- Shemesh, sunlight. R3344:2*
Joshua addressing in prayer the Lord as the Sun. R1381:5
Stand thou still -- Continue thy mighty help for us in
battle. R1381:5
Dum, be dim, let this darkness continue which accompanies
the hail-storm and so greatly terrifies the Amorites. R3344:5*
The obscurity of the sun and moon was really a great
phenomenon, of which Joshua made use to discomfit the foe,
commanding the sun and moon to stay hidden. PD38/48;
Q828:1; R3344:5*
That the sunlight continue without the orb itself being visible.
R1381:5
Upon -- In. R3344:5*
Gibeon -- The last beams of the sun setting in the west,
still lighting Mt. Gibeon. R1381:8
And thou, Moon -- Yareach, moonlight. R3344:2*,
R1381:5
God's peaceful blessing. R1381:5
The valley of Ajalon -- The rising moon casting its beams
directly through the valley of Ajalon. R1381:5
Joshua 10:13
And the sun -- Shemesh, sunlight. R3344:2*

Stood still -- Dum, remained dim; the great darkness
accompanying the storm continued. R3344:6*
Not by a stoppage of the earth on its axis, but possibly by
clouds reflecting the sunlight. R1381:5, R1813:3, PD38/48
Totally different from the reference in Hab. 3:11. R1813:3
And the moon -- Yareach, moonlight. R3344:2*
Stayed -- Amad, continued dim as it was. R3344:6*
Upon their enemies -- The force of this continued
obscuration of the sun and moon upon the Amorites can be
better understood when we remember that they were
worshippers of the sun and moon. R3344:6*
Book of Jasher -- Now lost--this is not an eyewitness
account. R1381:4
Stood still -- Typical of the power to be displayed in the
time of trouble at the hands of Christ. A61
The enemies of Joshua were sun-worshippers, and the
darkness of the day foreboded that their Sun-god was
eclipsed. PD38/48
And hasted not -- Did not press or force its way through.
R3344:6*
To go down -- Bo, to go in. R3344:6*
About a whole day -- The sunlight, usually so bright in
Syria, did not press through the clouds all that day. R3344:6*
Joshua 10:35
He utterly destroyed -- Proving that God can destroy

souls. R1882:1
Joshua 10:42
And their land -- At the end of the six-years' war after

entering Canaan. B48
Joshua 11
Joshua 11:1
Jabin -- Mentioned by name in the Tel-el-Amarna tablets

of Egypt. R1652:2, R1994:1
Joshua 11:23
Took the whole land -- At the end of the six-years' war

after entering Canaan. B48
Joshua 13
Joshua 13:14
None inheritance -- The Ancient Worthies, part of the

antitypical tribe of Levi, the household of faith, may after the
ending of their earthly service receive a spiritual inheritance.
R4389:4
Joshua 13:22
Balaam also -- Type of the class that teaches error for

profit. F166
Not only did God punish the Israelites according to the terms
of their Law covenant, but he also punished the Midianites
and Balaam. R5323:5
Joshua 14
Joshua 14:6
Caleb -- A descendant of Abraham through the rejected

son Esau, and adopted into the tribe of Judah. His
faithfulness and reward have special meaning to us who by
nature are children of wrath, typified by Esau. R3091:1
Joshua 14:8
My brethren -- Note the absence of any evil speaking

against those who sinned. R3091:6
Joshua 14:9
Thine inheritance -- Caleb did not expect, and was not

promised, a heavenly inheritance. R4071:2
Joshua 14:10
These 45 years -- Link No. 22 in the true Bible

chronology. B48
From the sending of the spies to the division of the land,
leaving one year from the leaving of Egypt to the sending of
the spies. HG44:3
Forty-six years after the exodus. R1980:3; B48
Joshua 14:12
Anakims -- Among these entrenched enemies are

traditions of men, religious customs, nominalism, sectarian
pride, ambition and love of show. R3091:5
I shall be able -- This well illustrates the progress of the
spiritual Israelite. He looks back to the beginning of his
experiences and rejoices that the Lord has kept him and has
faith to see himself victor over the strongest and most
entrenched enemies of the flesh. R3091:5
Joshua 14:13
Joshua blessed him -- In order to inherit the promises we,

like Caleb, must have faith in God and a corresponding
obedience. R3092:4
Joshua 14:14
Wholly followed -- These words have special weight in

view of the fact that Caleb was only an Israelite by adoption.
R3091:1
Joshua 17
Joshua 17:12
Could not drive out -- Compromising with their enemies,

they suffered from them in future years; so with the Christian
compromising with the sins of his flesh. R4064:4, R4061:3
Dwell in that land -- Hence, had the Jews waited for full
possession before beginning the Jubilee arrangements they
would never have begun them at all. B184
Joshua 18
Joshua 18:1
Shiloh -- Twenty miles north of Jerusalem. R3252:2
Joshua 20
Joshua 20:2
Cities of refuge -- A step in advance (of other nations)

along the lines of tempering justice with mercy. R3092:3
Christ is our refuge from the demands of justice. R4079:6
Joshua 20:3

Unawares -- The trial sought to determine whether the
slayer had laid in wait for his victim, hunted him, or smote
him in secret; maliciously or with guile; whether there was
previous enmity between the two men or hatred of the slain
on the part of the slayer. R3092:5
And unwittingly -- Christ is a refuge from unintentional
sins only. R3093:2
From the avenger -- Anyone who, even through error or
accident, took a life was worthy of death under the decree,
"He that sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be
shed." (Gen. 9:6) R3092:3
Joshua 20:6
He shall dwell -- Antitypically, it is necessary that we

continue to abide in Christ, that we do not put off the robe of
Christ's righteousness, or we become liable again to the
demands of justice, and that without mercy. R3093:4
Until the death -- Thus putting a heavy penalty upon
carelessness, passion, etc. R3092:6
Of the high priest -- Until Christ, Head and Body, will
have died. Then the new dispensation will be ushered in.
R3093:4
As long as Christ continues in the priestly office, until he is
able to present all the redeemed faultless before the throne of
God, at the end of the Millennial reign. R4080:1
Joshua 20:9
Joshua 23
Joshua 23:4
Nations that remain -- Had the Jews waited for full

possession before beginning the Jubilee arrangements they
would never have begun them at all. B184
Joshua 23:6
Book of the law of Moses -- Including Genesis. R1623:4
Joshua 23:10
Chase a thousand -- Armed with the divine Word.

R5606:4
Joshua 23:14
Not one thing -- It is appropriate to have a daily

review of the blessings we enjoy. R2737:1
In the smallest and greatest affairs of our lives he has ever
watched for our interests. R5387:5, R5538:3
Joshua 23:15
All evil things -- Calamities, as chastisements. A125
Joshua 24
Joshua 24:1
Joshua gathered -- Remembering Moses' command in

Deut. 27. R1869:1
All the tribes -- Representatives of all the tribes. R3093:2
Joshua 24:2
Served other gods -- Israel's forefathers prior to Abraham

were idolaters. R1869:2
Joshua 24:6
Out of Egypt -- Type of the kingdom of darkness. F458

And the Egyptians -- Type of the opponents of God's
people. F458
And horsemen -- Type of fallen angels and fallen men.
F458
Joshua 24:7
Brought the sea -- The Red Sea, type of the Second

Death. F459
Joshua 24:9
And called Balaam -- Type of those who teach error for

profit. F166
Joshua 24:14
Put away the gods -- Perhaps because idolatry still lurked

among them; perhaps merely guarding against the tendency.
R3094:1
Joshua 24:15
Evil -- Undesirable. R3094:2

Choose you this day -- "How long halt ye between two
opinions? If the Lord be God, follow him." (1 Kings 18:21)
We should come to a positive decision whether we will serve
God or Mammon (selfishness); settling the matter at once and
for all time that we will be the Lord's. OV198:7; R2950:4
Indecision is one of the greatest foes to character building
while the liberty or privilege of choosing, exercising our
wills, is one of the grandest blessings accorded to humanity,
and is an important element of man's likeness to his Creator.
SM755:1, R757:1, R758:1, R765:1
As Joshua asked them to decide whether or not they would be
faithful to the Lord, so we should come to a full, positive
decision as respects our course of life. OV198:7; R4780:1
To perceive the Lord's will on any subject would be to settle
it without any temporizing. R4780:2
A will-less man is a good-for-naught. OV196:T
Illustrated by Elijah and the priests of Baal. R4740:1-6
Whom ye will serve -- Having chosen wisely we must
bend our every energy to the working out of that resolution.
OV196:T
Whether the gods -- The choice was theirs. We have no
right to attempt compulsion. This is true during the Jewish
and Gospel ages, but not during the Millennial age. R3094:2
As for me -- Others may reverence whom they will; we
can do naught else than reverence our God. R2873:1
And my house -- Signifying the training of children in the
nurture and admonition of the Lord. A consecrated person
should have a large and good influence over his entire
household. R3094:6; SM764:2
Parents must realize that few can stand an education which
recognizes neither God nor responsibility to him. OV258:2,
OV293:4
Will serve the LORD -- Whoever has this determination
will be blessed. R5149:4
Every day we should renew our covenant with the Lord.
R4780:4
Joshua 24:19
Cannot serve -- You must not imagine that the promises

you are making can be kept without considerable effort.
R3094:3
When the Jew agreed to that covenant he signed his own
death-warrant; for none of Adam's children can keep it.
R812:1*
Joshua 24:20
And do you hurt -- Typifying that God will send strong

delusions to those who receive not the love of the truth. (2
Thess. 2:11, 12) R1869:5
Consume you -- To Israel, a hasty visitation of the Adamic
Death penalty; to the consecrated, the Second Death.
R1869:5
Joshua 24:22
We are witnesses -- The Lord's spiritual people should not

only make a covenant with the Lord in their hearts and minds,
but should also witness it before fellow-members of the Body
of Christ by confession and baptism. R3094:6
Joshua 24:24
God will we serve -- Any rival occupying mind or heart is

unfaithfulness to him and a despising of our covenant.
R1869:4
Will we obey -- "To obey is better than sacrifice." (1 Sam.
15:22) R4206:6
Joshua 24:26
Wrote these words -- Corresponding to a public

confession of our covenant before the fellow members of the
Body of Christ. R3094:6
Book of the law of God -- Including Genesis. R1623:4
Great stone -- Representing the memorial of our
consecration--baptism. R3094:6
An oak -- Or oak grove. R3094:5
Judges
General
Israel's history from the time of the division of Canaan
until the anointing of Saul to be their king, a period of 450
years, is called the period of the Judges--Joshua being the first
judge and Samuel the last. These judges were evidently not
elected to their position but raised to it providentially. But as
these judges had no power or authority and collected no
revenues it follows that any power or influence they
possessed was a personal one and to give it weight or force
implied a proper acknowledgment of them as divinely
appointed or raised up. This arrangement led the people
continually to look to God for their helpers and leaders.
If the book of Judges were to be read as a fully complete
history of Israel for those four and a half centuries it would be
a discouraging picture. But the record passes by the happy
period of Israel's prosperity and specially points out their
deflections from obedience to God, their punishments for
such transgressions and the deliverances from their troubles
through the judges, or deliverers, whom God raised up for
them. That this was in many respects a favorable time for the
Israelites was implied in the Lord's promise, "I will restore
thy judges as at the first." --Isaiah 1:26 R3102:2, R5645:2
The statement by the Apostle of the length of this period
of the Judges (Acts 13:20) we accept as a specially designed
solution of the problem of the portion of the chronology most
difficult to figure from the Old Testament record. B49
A judge, in ancient times, was one who executed justice
and relieved the oppressed. Note, for instance, how when
under oppression by their enemies because of transgression
against the Lord, Israel was time and again released and
blessed by the raising up of judges. A142 It should be noted
that the object of raising up judges was a gracious and
beneficent one: it was to deliver and bless the people, not to
condemn and punish them. In this view of the office of a
judge, how precious is the promise that our blessed Lord
Jesus cometh to judge the world in righteousness. R1869:3
Judges 1
Judges 1:5
The Canaanites -- Lowlanders. R2848:4

The Perizzites -- Highlanders. R2848:4
Judges 1:16
The Kenite -- From Midian, east of Sinai. R3061:5

Dwelt among the people -- In fulfilment of Moses'
promise in Num. 10:29-32. R3061:5
So friends of truth should be encouraged to serve the Lord
and be assured of a share in the reward. R4038:5
Judges 2
Judges 2:1
Never break my covenant -- The centuries since have

shown the persistency of God's mercy. R5598:6
Judges 2:2
No league -- The Lord's people should make no truce with

their fleshly weaknesses. R5598:2
Truces with the flesh mean that love for the Lord has
gradually cooled. R5646:1
The Inhabitants -- Corresponds to the perverted appetites
of the flesh, earthly hopes and ambitions, oppositions to the
Lord and righteousness. R5598:2
Altars -- Passion, avarice. R5598:2
Judges 2:4
And wept -- The New Creature cries to the Lord for

deliverance. R5598:2
Judges 2:7
Served the LORD -- Things went well with the Israelites

because their leaders realized the importance of being on the
Lord's side. R5598:4
The days of -- Covering a break between the division of
the land and the first recorded period of eight years. (Jud.
3:8) HG45:4
The elders -- The elders who had witnessed God's
miraculous interposition were the judges of Israel. R5645:2,
R3102:2, R4192:3
So spiritual Israelites of every congregation are to select fit
men for services needed. R5645:5
Judges 2:8
Joshua -- The first judge. R3102:2; PD38/48
Judges 2:11
Children of Israel -- Many of them, not all. R5646:2,

R3102:6
Judges 2:12
Other gods -- Represented by idols. R5598:4

Christians have made idols, not of stone, wood or bronze; but
more hideous misrepresentations of the divine character--our
printed creeds. R5598:5
Gods of the people -- Typifying forms of godliness taking
the place of true heart-worship, reverence. R5598:5
Bowed themselves -- The idols would appear to be an
excellent way of keeping religion before the mind, but it was
not God's way. R5598:4
False religions appealed to the baser passions, combining a
form of godliness with gratification of the flesh, dancings, etc.
R5598:5
Judges 2:13
Baal -- Signifying overseer, caretaker. R5627:2
Judges 2:14
Anger of the LORD -- Not that the period of the judges

was basically idolatrous, the record passes by the happy
periods of Israel's prosperity. So, reading today's newspapers
would give only a bleak picture of our day. R5645:6
The Lord's displeasure does not delay until one goes fully into
idolatry, but reproves early to correct. R5646:2
He delivered them -- Chastisements are evidences of
special care, protection and relationship. R5646:2
Judges 2:15
Hand of the LORD -- His divine power. SM623:1

Evil -- Ra, signifying calamity, not sin. R1350:2
Judges 2:16
Raised up -- Divinely appointed. R5645:2

To deliver and bless the people, not to condemn and punish
them. R1869:3
Picturing God's dealing with spiritual Israel during this
Gospel age, raising up special counselors, deliverers,
ministers. R5645:3, R3102:2
Judges -- Deliverers. R5598:6
Israel's government was a republic under divine autocracy and
law supervision. R4192:3
Not a republic in the present day understanding of that term.
R3216:3
Covering a period of 450 years. (Acts 13:20) B49 Israel's
spiritual interests were more advanced under judges than
kings. Centralization does not always mean greater blessings,
but less individuality and personal progress. R4201:4
God's representatives. R4192:6
Pre-figured resurrected Ancient Worthies. R4201:4
"I will restore thy judges as at the first." (Isa. 1:26) R5645:6
Typical of the world's eventual rule--heavenly wisdom
directing incorruptible earthly judges communicating and
enforcing divine law. R5646:5
The office in which Jesus comes to judge the world in
righteousness. R1869:3
Which delivered them -- Spiritual leaders of divine
appointment will always be marked by spiritual victories.
R5645:3
Judges 2:17
Their judges -- This verse and its connections seem to

indicate that verses 1-19 cover a long period of time of Israel's
experiences, under many judges. R5598:5
Judges 3
Judges 3:8
Eight years -- One of many captivities, showing that the

"seven times" of Lev. 26 could not be literal. B89
The chronological periods mentioned in Judges cover a total
of 450 years; but the judges did not cover
all the space of time, they were merely scattered over most of
it. HG45:3
Judges 3:9
Cried -- A cry of loyalty. R5646:3

Such a cry by a spiritual Israelite implies that the sin was
contrary to the transgressor's will. R5646:3
The LORD raised up -- All who cry to the Lord in
sincerity and faith shall be heard and delivered. R5646:3
A deliverer -- A judge in ancient times was one who
executed justice and relieved the oppressed. The coming
Judge of earth will be its deliverer. A142
Judges 3:14
Eighteen years -- See comments on Judges 3:8 from B89.
Judges 4
Judges 4:3
Twenty years -- See comments on Judges 3:8 from B89.
Judges 4:4
A prophetess -- Perhaps a public teacher, or perhaps one

through whom the Lord sent special messages. Probably the
latter. R5605:1
Female as well as male servants of God must be faithful in
using all their talents. R1549:4
Supporting female activity in the pursuits of life for which
nature and education have fitted her. R1549:3
She judged - Admonished, guided, assisted. R5605:1
Judges 4:6
Mount Tabor -- The Mount of Transfiguration, thus

associating the vision of the Kingdom with the Armageddon
field of disaster. R5604:3
Judges 4:11
Heber the Kenite -- See comments on Judges 1:16.

Hobab -- Hobab was Moses' brother-in-law. (Num. 10:29)
R3061:5, R4038:3
Judges 4:13
900 chariots - Showing the strength of Sisera's army.

R5604:3
Judges 4:15
Discomfited Sisera -- This is the first of the great battles in

the Valley of Megiddo. R5604:2
Judges 4:21
A nail of the tent -- Tent-pin. R5605:4

Smote the nail -- Not a breach of hospitality. The custom
of the Arabs in Palestine is that any man intruding into a
woman's tent was considered worthy of death. R5605:4
Judges 5
Judges 5:4
The field of Edom -- Type of Christendom. D15

The earth -- Type of the existing order of things. A318;
B162
Dropped water -- The cloudburst of truth and the rising
waters of knowledge are bringing to pass human catastrophe
which the Lord will overrule for the blessing of the world.
R5604:5
Judges 5:19
Megiddo -- Type of the time of trouble at the end of this

Christian era. Q769:2; R5604:2
Judges 5:20
Stars -- Figurative: this interference of God on behalf of

his people Israel pictured the great Armageddon battle near at
hand. R5604:5
Judges 5:23
Against the mighty -- Typifying errorists, those who fail

to lift up heart, pen and voice on the Lord's side and will not
be overcomers who get the victory. R1257:4
Judges 6
Judges 6:11
Gideon -- The record implies that he was fine of form and

feature, indicating natural nobility. R4082:3
Threshed wheat -- Gideon was threshing out a few
sheaves of wheat in a concealed place lest the Midianites rob
them. R5605:3
Judges 6:13
This befallen us -- It was not that God was unfaithful to

his covenant, but that the Israelites had been unfaithful.
R5605:6, R4082:2
How few spiritual Israelites realize that spiritual difficulties
are traceable to the Lord's providences. R4082:2
Judges 6:14
Have not I sent thee? -- The angel was not there to

discuss theology, but to inspire Gideon. R5605:3
Judges 6:15
I am the least -- Here Gideon's humility shines out.

R5605:5
Judges 6:16
I will be with thee -- This protection was dependent upon

Israel's maintenance of heart-loyalty and faithfulness to God.
R5605:5
Judges 6:21
Rose up fire -- Demonstrating that the visitor was an

angel of the Lord. R5605:6
Angels have powers above the human. R265:2
Judges 6:22
He was an angel -- For he had appeared to him in human

form. A183; B127
Judges 6:24
Jehovah-shalom -- The Peace of Jehovah. E43
Judges 6:25
The same night -- At night, because his family and the

villagers would have stoutly resisted it if they had known.
R5606:2
Grove -- Large posts, significant of honor, erected near
the idol. R5605:6
Judges 6:34
Came upon Gideon -- Type of the Lord Jesus. R4082:5

Blew a trumpet -- Representing the proclamation of the
truth, the call to faith in the Lord, resulting in justification and
acceptance. R4083:5,2
Judges 6:37
Then shall I know -- Gideon required fresh evidence from

the Lord that he was doing the divine will. R5606:4
Judges 6:39
Let me prove -- The first test was not enough. He would

reverse the test. R5606:5
Judges 6:40
And God did so -- We are not to think that because the

Lord thus granted proofs to Gideon it would be proper for us
today to make similar tests. We walk by faith, not by sights
and signs. R5606:5
Judges 7
Judges 7:1
Gideon -- Type of the Lord Jesus. R4082:5, R3686:6

Well of Harod -- Harod spring, a little lake which drains
off eastward to the Jordan. R5606:3
Harod signifies "Coward." It is assumed that the name was
given because of the fear manifested by the 22,000 who went
home. R5606:3
Judges 7:3
Whosoever is fearful -- A test of faith. R1876:1

Picturing justified believers who, shunning the hardships,
decline to consecrate fully. R1876:4, R5607:4, R4083:2
All the justified ones must first sit down and count the cost.
R4083:2
Judges 7:4
Yet too many -- Illustrating that God is not dependent

upon numbers or ecclesiastical organization. R458:5
Unto the water -- Typifying the truth. R4083:3, R5606:6
Shall go with thee -- The honor due to the human
instruments used was not in their strength and skill in battle,
but in their faith in God. R1876:1
So shall it be when the Lord shall again fight for Israel; it will
not be by their own power. R1747:1
Judges 7:5
Lappeth of the water -- Signifying alertness and

obedience. R5606:6
Judges 7:6
Putting their hand -- Symbol of energy (zeal). R4083:3,

R1876:1
To their mouth -- Thus maintaining their own erectness of
manhood, showing energy and discretion in drinking and
lifting up their heads in acknowledgment of the heavenly
origin of the truth. R4083:4
300 men -- Representing those who are alert in the
Master's service, the wiser of the two classes who appreciate
the truth. R5606:6, R4082:5
Upon their knees -- Typifying those who bow down in the
mire of human servility, drinking the water of truth more for
their own satisfaction. R4083:4, R5606:6
Judges 7:7
Gideon -- Representing Christ. R5607:1, R2550:4

300 men -- Christ, like Gideon, is called of God to lead a
"Little Flock" forth to the conquest of the hosts of sin. Di;
OV268:2; R1876:4, R4083:2
Other people go -- A portion of the Lord's consecrated
who, being less alert, are less used. R5607:4, R5606:6
Picturing those who are weary in well-doing, whose zeal
abates, love grows cold and faith declines and who fail to
push on to the end. R1876:4
Judges 7:16
A trumpet -- Ram's horn trumpet. R5607:1
Judges 7:20
Blew the trumpets -- Representing the proclamation of the

truth. R4083:5; PD38/48
Jubilee trumpets. R2555:5
Brake the pitchers -- Representing our earthen vessels.
R4083:5
The lamps -- The broken vessels of Gideon's band
represent how the Lord's people present their bodies living
sacrifices, letting the light shine out and fighting a good fight
against the hosts of sin. R5607:5, R4083:5, R2550:5;
PD38/48
The Lord's spirit is represented by the light of the lamp
shining from the broken vessel. R5607:5
Sword of the LORD -- Of Jehovah, our Captain. R4083:5
The sword represented God's Word. PD38/48
And of Gideon -- Of Christ. R4083:5
Judges 7:21
All the host ran -- Picturing the time of trouble. R3686:6

Jehovah fought Israel's ancient battles without being seen,
except with the eyes of understanding. R286:3
Cried, and fled -- Imagined themselves being surrounded
by a great host. R5607:2
Judges 7:22
Against his fellow -- They fought each other, mistaking

each other for foes. R5607:2, R4083:4
The climax of the battle will be a temporary reign of anarchy.
R5607:5
The hosts of sin, the powers of evil, will fall upon one another
for their mutual destruction. R5607:5, R2550:5
Judges 7:23
Men of Israel -- Others than the Little Flock will be

associated in the work of overthrow. R4083:6
Judges 8
Judges 8:4
Came to Jordan -- Typifying, as far as the Little Flock is

concerned, consecration unto death. R3087:1
It will be through the intervention of the elect (on the other
side of the veil) that the hosts of sin will be utterly
discomfited. R2550:5
Judges 8:18
Children of a king -- As Gideon and his brethren looked

like sons of a king, so Christ and his followers are all godlike
in character. PD38/48; R5229:3, R4082:5
Frequently with such nobility goes pride, which renders the
individual unsuited to the Lord's purposes-- "not many wise,
not many noble hath God chosen." (1 Cor. 1:26) R4082:4
Judges 8:26
Purple raiment -- Purple is the badge of royalty.

RIOO:6*
Judges 11
Judges 11:17
Of Edom -- Type of Christendom. D15
Judges 11:30
Jephthah vowed -- Jephthah's daughter took the vow of

perpetual virginity and figuratively became dead to the world.
PD38/48, R2897:2
Judges 11:31
Be the LORD'S -- Offering his daughter in sacrifice.

R2874:5
Full devotion to the Lord; a vow of chastity and sanctity.
R2874:6
Be dedicated forever to his service. R2897:2*
Offer it up -- Will offer to him. R2897:3*
The vow contains two parts: that the person who would meet
him would be Jehovah's; and that Jephthah himself would
offer a burnt-offering to Jehovah. R2897:2*
Judges 11:40
To lament -- To talk with her (Margin). R2897:5*
Judges 13
Judges 13:1
LORD delivered them -- For lack of faith. With proper

faith one might have chased a thousand and two chased ten
thousand. R4088:5
Forty years -- See comment on Judges 3:8 from B89.
Judges 13:3
Appeared -- In human form, a power which angel's

possess. B127
Judges 13:4
Drink not wine -- Twice before Samson's birth an angel of

the Lord impressed upon his mother the importance of
abstemiousness. R5612:3
Judges 13:5
Nazarite -- It was included in the vow of a Nazarite that he

would avoid spiritous liquor in every form, that his hair
would not be cut and that he would avoid contamination with
dead bodies--signifying full, complete consecration.
R5612:3, R4088:1
There is no intimation that Samson ever violated this vow.
R4088:1
Not a resident of Nazareth. Jesus was from Nazareth, but not
under a Nazarite vow. R5612:3
Deliver Israel -- According to divine promise, Samson
was to be one of the Judges of Israel, one of the deliverers of
Israel. R5612:6
Philistines -- They were supposedly pirates, preying upon
Israel. R5612:6
Judges 13:8
Let the man -- The angel who had appeared in human

form. E94
Judges 13:13
Angel of the LORD -- Perhaps this was the last direct

communication between the Lord and any of his people
Israel. R5615:5
Judges 13:20
Ascended in the flame -- Similar in manner to our Lord's

ascension. R2818:6
Judges 13:21
Then Manoah knew -- Previously thought to be a man,

showing that angels can assume human bodies and appear as
men. A183; R265:2, R18:3, R261:6, R578:6
Judges 13:22
God -- Hebrew, Elohim, a mighty one, referring to the

angel. R1410:3
Judges 13:25
Spirit of the LORD -- Such a mechanical operation of the

holy Spirit is wholly different from that which applies to the
Christian, begotten of the Spirit. R5613:3
Judges 14
Judges 14:6
Nothing in his hand -- Because the Philistines forbade

blacksmiths lest the Israelites arm themselves. (1 Sam.
13:19,20) R4088:3
Judges 14:8
Honey in the carcase -- Some Michigan lumbermen

recently found the carcase of a large raccoon full of wild
honey. R3329:5
Judges 15
Judges 15:5
Burnt up -- Not wantonly, but to impoverish Israel's

captors and recover the land for the nation. R1381:4,
R4088:4
Samson used every means at his command to break the forces
of the oppressors and to deliver his people. R4088:4
Judges 15:12
That we may deliver thee -- Showing the abjectness of the

Israelites' servility. R4088:4
Judges 15:15
Slew a thousand -- Consider the activities of the early

Church and the victories they gained. R4088:6
Judges 15:19
His spirit came -- Ruach, vital or life-power returned.

E314
Judges 16
Judges 16:4
Delilah -- The standards of the Ancient Worthies were

different from those of the Gospel age. R4087:6
Judges 16:5
Entice him -- Consider how the Adversary seduced the

Church. R4088:6
Judges 16:17
If I be shaven -- Samson's strength, considered in

relationship to his Nazarite vow, should show the Lord's
acceptance of the consecrated and his making them mighty to
the overthrow of their enemies. R4088:3
Judges 16:18
All his heart -- We should be specially on guard

against the blandishments of the world and the Adversary
through the nominal church. R4088:5
Judges 16:19
Made him sleep -- Consider the stupor, drowsiness, ease

and worldliness upon those who made a vow to faithfulness
during a considerable time. R4088:6
Upon her knees -- Similarly, those who are strong in the
Lord are in danger of going to sleep in the lap of the modern
Delilah, Churchianity. R4088:6
Shave off -- A vow once taken must be observed faithfully
if its blessings would be enjoyed. R5613:5
His strength went -- The strength of the Gospel message
was lost while in the drowsy condition in the "Dark Ages."
R4088:6
A condition of his vow being broken. R4088:6, R5613:4
Judges 16:21
Put out his eyes -- Illustrating how the Church lost the
eyes of her understanding in the Dark Ages. R4088:6
Bound him -- Ever since the Reformation time the Church
has been to a considerable extent a slave to Churchianity and
the world. R4088:6
He did grind -- Thus the Church has been grinding food of
a certain kind for many while still a slave to the world and
under its blinding influences. R4089:1
Judges 16:22
Began to grow again -- Representing the growing power

of Present Truth. R4089:3
Judges 16:23
Dagon their god -- Representing the modern god of

Evolution. R4089:3
Judges 16:25
Their hearts were merry -- The worldly-wise feast and

rejoice, giving honor to the god of Evolution through their
Higher Critics. R4089:3
Make us sport -- Those who are faithful to the principles
of the Lord's Word will yet be made sport of by the worldly-wise. R4089:4
Judges 16:26
Samson -- Still full of the spirit of his consecration.

R4089:1
Judges 16:28
Strengthen me -- We have come to a time when the Lord's

people are recovering a little of the strength of the early
Church. R4089:3
That I may be at once avenged -- One lesson we may
learn from Samson is the importance of having an object in
life. R5613:5
Judges 16:29
Samson took hold -- Even now Labor, like the blind giant
Samson, is groping for the pillars whose fall will overthrow
present conditions. PD89/103
Judges 16:30
Let me die -- His whole life was used in serving his

people. R5613:2
Nephesh, soul, sentient being. E334
All his might -- The Lord's true people are ready to put
forth all their strength to move the pillars of error which
uphold Churchianity. R4089:4
And the house fell -- With the death of the last member of
the Church, the Body of Christ, will surely come the downfall
of Churchianity and the present system of world power.
R4089:4
Were more than -- He did more damage to the Philistines
and more for the deliverance of his people in that one act than
in all the other experiences of his life. R5613:4, R4089:2
Judges 16:31
Buried him -- According to the Law, Samson was rated as

a very faithful servant of God. R5613:2, R4088:1
Judged -- In the sense of avenging wrongs that Israel
sustained upon the enemies who committed those wrongs.
R4088:4
His chief work was to revive the spirit of the totally dejected
people; encouraging their return to the Lord, with its resultant
prosperity. R5613:1
Judges 19
Judges 19:10
Jebus -- Because it belonged to the Jebusites; earlier called

Salem. (Gen. 14:18) R1296:3*
Judges 20
Judges 20:16
At an hair breadth -- Therefore David's marksmanship

against Goliath was not unusual. R4216:4, R3230:5
Ruth
General
The story of the book of Ruth gives us a little glimpse into
the affairs of the Israelites, showing us that there was a deep
spirit of religion underlying the surface of wars and
captivities. The opening was at Bethlehem, "the city of
David," where, centuries later, Jesus was born. The religious
sentiment of the family is shown by the significance of their
names. R5614:1
The book of Ruth is valuable to us in various ways: (1) It
furnishes an important link in the chronological chain leading
down to King David and, hence, a part of the chronological
line leading down to the man Christ Jesus. (2) It gives a
glimpse of the habits and customs of the Israelites in general
as an agricultural people-in contrast to Judges, Kings and
Chronicles, which deal more particularly with rulers, generals
and wars. (3) It is a very beautiful lesson of fidelity, sympathy
and love amongst the people at that time. R3110:2, R4089:3
Ruth 1
Ruth 1:1
When the judges ruled -- Somewhere about Gideon's

time. R3110:3
Famine in the land -- As a judgment of the Lord upon his
people for some measure of unfaithfulness to him. R3110:3
How many forget that God will supervise the affairs of all his
covenant people and cause all things to work together for
good to them. R3110:6
And a certain man -- Making the common mistake of
choosing temporal prosperity rather than suffering affliction
with the people of God. R4089:6
Of Bethlehem-Judah -- "The city of David." R5614:1
Went to sojourn -- Thus leaving the privileges of
association with God's people, and failing also to contribute
toward their comfort and encouragement in time of distress.
R4089:6
Country of Moab -- The Moabites were descendants of
Lot, but were not to be considered the children of Abraham.
R3110:3
It would not have been proper to try to convert the Moabites,
for God had only called Israel. R5614:2
And his wife -- Naomi, however, was not to blame; the
responsibility rested with her husband. R3110:5
Ruth 1:2
Elimelech -- Meaning, "My God is King." R5614:1
Naomi -- Meaning, "Loveable, pleasant" or "The pleasure

of Jehovah." R3111:4, 5614:1
The religious sentiment of the family is shown by the import
of their names. R5614:1
His two sons -- Mahlon "Sickly one" and Chilion "Pining
one." R5614:1
Continued there -- It was unwise to take two boys into a
heathen land where they were likely to be contaminated.
Many Christians have made the same mistake. R5614:2
Ruth 1:4
Women of Moab -- The Bible does not disguise the fact

that Ruth was, by nature, a foreigner, a Gentile, and at one
time an idolatress. R5614:5
Ruth 1:6
With her daughters In law -- Showing Naomi's character,

to influence both daughters-in-law to prefer to leave their
homeland and join her, though only Ruth finally made the
journey. R5614:2
Might return -- She realized it had been a mistake to
attempt to regulate their own affairs when they were specially
under the Lord's protection and guidance. R3110:3
Ruth 1:10
Return with thee -- Though Naomi and her husband had

erred in judgment they were still loyal to God and had let
their light shine. Both daughters-in-law had been influenced
by it. R4090:1
Ruth 1:11
Why will ye go -- As our Lord advised those who would

become his disciples, first of all to sit down and count the
cost. R3111:1
Ruth 1:13
Against me -- The hand of the Lord against her had a

proper influence upon her and brought her back to the land of
promise. R5614:2
Ruth 1:15
Is gone back -- Orpah concluding that after all it would be

too much of a sacrifice for her to part with her kindred, etc.
R3111:2
Ruth 1:16
Whither thou goest -- "Forget also thy father's house and

thine own people." (Psa. 45:10) R4090:4
I will go -- The positiveness of her decision is worthy of
note. A Christian does not become a Christian without just
such a positive decision. R5614:4
Where thou lodgest -- All of the Lord's people can dwell
together in love, in fellowship, seated together in heavenly
places. R4090:5
Thy people -- Next to the Lord are his people. To love
him is to love them and meet with them. R4090:4
Shall be my people -- Though a Gentile by birth, Ruth
became a sincere Jewish proselyte. R4089:3
So surely as any of God's people are found, they are all
brethren of one family. R5615:1
My God -- Ruth was converted to Judaism. This is a
testimony to the faithful living of Naomi. R5614:3
We who by nature were Gentiles have by God's grace become
spiritual Israelites; and should determine that henceforth
former conditions, interests, pleasures and relationships are
gone forever. R4090:2
Ruth 1:20
Call me not Naomi -- "Loveable, pleasant" or "The

pleasure of Jehovah." R3111:4, R5614:1
Call me Mara -- "Bitter." R3111:4, R351:2*
Ruth 1:21
Testified against me -- Later on she came to see that the

Lord's afflictions upon her had been for her good, bringing
her back to the land of promise and to fellowship with her
people. R3111:4
Ruth 1:22
With her -- Alone, unprotected, but without molestation;

showing the general law and order prevalent among the
Israelites. R3111:6
Ruth 2
Ruth 2:1
Boaz -- Whose mother was Rahab, also a Jewish proselyte

(Josh. 6:25). R4089:3
Ruth 2:2
Glean -- The harvest work is going grandly on. R5950:1

Perhaps descriptive of harvest work after 1914. R5602:3
At first we were inclined to surmise that the Harvest proper
closed in October 1914, and that the work going on was a
gleaning work; but the facts seem not to bear this out.
R5950:1
Ruth 2:3
Gleaned -- Gathering stray handfuls of grain missed by the

men who were reaping. This was permitted by Jewish Law.
(Lev. 19:9) R3111:5
Ruth 2:4
The LORD be with you -- How few employers in this day

would be inclined to salute their laborers thus. R3111:6
The LORD bless thee -- How few farm laborers would in
this day respond in such a manner. Evidently men were far
from monkeys at that time! R3111:6
Ruth 2:23
Barley harvest -- The barley harvest commences about

half a month after the vernal equinox (March 21) R4127:1
Ruth 3
Ruth 3:4
Lay thee down -- Here again Naomi betrayed the

weakness of her trust in God, but God in kindness overruled
all for good. R4090:2
Ruth 3:14
She lay at his feet -- The advice of Naomi to Ruth

concerning Boaz was not of unalloyed wisdom. Such a
course today would brand any woman as a loose, if not
disreputable, character. R4090:2
Let it not be known -- Boaz feared such reproach upon
Ruth's character. R4090:2
Ruth 4
Ruth 4:4
I will redeem it -- Representing "The Son of The Man,"

the Redeemer of Adam's lost possessions. E153
Ruth 4:10
Have I purchased -- "The redemption (deliverance) of the

purchased possession." (Eph. 1:14) E153
To be my wife -- Boaz pursued the course of the Jewish
Law; Ruth became his wife. Thus Ruth, the Gentile, became
identified with the royal family as an ancestor, and with King
David's greatest Son and Lord, Jesus. R5614:5, R3111:5
Ruth 4:22
Jesse begat David -- The chief object of the book of Ruth

is to preserve an authentic record of our Lord's human
ancestry. R4089:3
1 Samuel
General
Gives a little insight into the family conditions of the
Israelites at a time not long after the days of Samson and
Ruth. It shows the deep religious sentiment prevailing
amongst many of the people. The Tabernacle, in this study
styled the Temple, was located at Shiloh, a few miles north of
Jerusalem. The people by divine direction went annually to
worship the Lord, offer sacrifice, etc., at the Feast time, the
Passover. God seldom sent messages at that time. Perhaps
that of the angel of the Lord who appeared to the father and
mother of Samson, probably fifty years before, was the last
direct communication between the Lord and any of his
people Israel. R5615:1,5
Samuel is styled the first of the prophets of Israel.
R5616:1 The Prophet Samuel established a new order of
things. He did not do as others before him had done--have his
place of residence to which all the people must go to ask his
advice, counsel, judgment; but he introduced the circuit judge
system and went from place to place holding a court--not so
much to condemn anybody but rather to advise those who
desired advice. R5628:5
Samuel reviews his career, 1 Samuel 12:13-25 R3222
1 Samuel 1
1 Samuel 1:11
I will give him -- A prebirth consecration showing a

prenatal influence insuring a mental and spiritual inheritance
tending towards godliness. R1671:3, R1882:2
1 Samuel 1:15
A sorrowful spirit -- Ruach, mind, disposition. E318
1 Samuel 1:19
The LORD remembered her -- With the miraculous

interposition of divine power quickening the dormant and
inoperative natural forces. R560:6*
1 Samuel 1:20
Samuel -- Meaning "In God's name." R5615:2
1 Samuel 1:22
Weaned -- The time when he was able to do without his

mother's care, probably ten to twelve years old. R5615:2,
R4091:2
Abide for ever -- Many seemingly consecrated people
hold back their most precious possessions, their children,
from the Lord and incline to devote them to some worldly
calling. R4091:2
It is the privilege of consecrated parents to present themselves
and all they have to the Lord, including their children.
R4091:2
1 Samuel 1:27
For this child -- Samuel was desired, prayed for, prepared

for. R5615:3
The story of the parents of Samuel gives us a glimpse of the
God-fearing piety prevalent amongst many in Israel.
R3102:5, R4090:3, R5615:1
1 Samuel 1:28
Lent to the LORD -- This Jewish custom is largely

responsible for the consecration services observed by some
today. Q758:T
1 Samuel 2
1 Samuel 2:1
Mine horn -- Horns are symbols of power. T42
1 Samuel 2:6
Down to the grave -- To sheol, oblivion, the state of death.

E358
And bringeth up -- By a resurrection out of sheol,
oblivion. E358
Showing that those who go to hell don't stay there forever.
HG556:4, HG734:6*
1 Samuel 2:8
For the pillars -- The saints, the Little Flock. R1813:2

Of the earth -- The new social order. R1813:2
1 Samuel 2:11
Did minister -- He was a servant of the Lord by virtue of

his being a servant to Eli, God's priest. R5615:5
It is a mistake to suppose that the early years of life, 10 years
onward, should be largely spent in play. R4091:3
Unto the LORD -- It is a mistake for parents to think that
children cannot appreciate religious things at an early age.
R4091:4
1 Samuel 2:12
Sons of Belial -- While Eli's own influence was exemplary

his sons were wicked in various ways, for which he became
responsible. R5296:3
If weakness and indecision be a natural failing with us, we are
not excusable in failing to fight against it. R1882:5
1 Samuel 2:17
The sin -- They took more of the sacrifice than allowed in

the divine arrangement. R5615:5
1 Samuel 2:18
But Samuel -- As a natural result of favorable prenatal

influence. R1671:3
1 Samuel 2:22
All that his sons did -- Practicing immorality, misleading

the people into unrighteousness when, as priests, they should
have been instructors of the people in righteousness, both by
precept and example. R5615:6
1 Samuel 2:30
I will honour -- In my own due time and way. R2888:6,

R2887:5,6
This principle holds good many ways. R5703:2
1 Samuel 3
1 Samuel 3:1
Was precious -- Scarce. R4091:5

No open vision -- Visions and revelations were not then
given; the Urim and Thummim answers had ceased. R5615:5
1 Samuel 3:2
Eyes began to wax dim -- Eli was then about 70 to 80

years of age. R5615:5, R4091:5
1 Samuel 3:9
Speak, LORD -- Indicating Samuel's readiness to do him

service. R5297:1
1 Samuel 3:10
Samuel answered -- Blessed shall we be if, like Samuel,

when we hear the Lord's message we respond promptly.
R4092:5
Thy servant heareth -- We should be willing to receive
the truth in whatever way the Lord is pleased to send it,
whether from the mouth of a little child or from unlearned
men. R5297:2
How often the servant wants to do all the talking and to have
the Lord hear him and perform his will. R1882:5
Some mistakenly interpret the Lord's voice directing them in
accordance with their own wills. R4092:5
Eli showed no resentment against Samuel, the channel the
Lord had used. R5297:1
1 Samuel 3:13
I will judge -- This was not the first time that the Lord had
reproved Eli regarding the wrong course of his sons. R5615:6
Restrained them not -- Hence he was a sharer in the
penalty which came upon his sons. R5615:6
1 Samuel 3:15
And Samuel -- Samuel exhibited the spirit of meekness; so

we should speak sympathetically when telling of the trouble
coming on Babylon. R4092:4
1 Samuel 3:16
Eli -- Seems to represent the Great Company. R5297:5

Samuel -- Seems to represent the Little Flock. R5297:5
1 Samuel 3:18
Told him every whit -- It was a trial to Samuel to tell his

friend and benefactor of the Lord's criticism and
pronouncement of judgment. Sympathy and tenderness of
heart must not prevent the Lord's faithful servants from
speaking his message boldly. R5615:6
It is the LORD -- Some in Nominal Christendom are not
in sympathy with the trend of affairs. R5297:5
The Great Company are weak in standing forth, yet
submissive in the time of trouble. R5297:5
Seemeth him good -- If Eli was weak in some
respects he was strong in others, as is shown in his humility
and this beautiful example of absolute submission. R5297:2
We should all strive to have that attitude of mind that would
be fully submissive to the divine decree. Q499:T
Eli should have trained his sons in righteousness, otherwise
they should have ceased to be members of his household and
should have come under certain restraints, which he as a
lawgiver should have enforced. R5296:6
1 Samuel 4
1 Samuel 4:1
Now Israel went -- Some twenty years after God's

prediction of the calamities that would befall Eli and his
family. R5626:1
1 Samuel 4:2
Israel was smitten -- The evil example of the priestly

office had an injurious effect upon the people. God was
bound to punish them. R5626:1
1 Samuel 4:3
Fetch the ark -- An attempt to invoke the assistance of

religious symbols, thinking that God would not permit the
Ark of the Covenant to be injured or captured. R5626:2
Thus evidencing faith in the divine institutions although their
lives were corrupt. R3252:2
1 Samuel 4:4
Between the cherubims -- Between love and power, above

a foundation of justice, represented by the Mercy Seat. T124
Looking at the Mercy Seat as representing God's chariot or
throne. R529:6*
Two sons of Eli -- They were thieves and robbers, garbed
as the priests of God; immoral, impure, posing as the
representatives of the divine holiness. R5626:3
Apparently no reformation had taken place in all those twenty
years. R5626:1
1 Samuel 4:5
A great shout -- Their usual battle-hymn: Num.10:35.

R5626:3
1 Samuel 4:7
The Philistines -- The Philistines revered Jehovah, the

God of Israel, when they returned the Ark of Jehovah to
Israel. R2541:3
1 Samuel 4:18
When he made mention -- Notwithstanding his weakness

his heart was always loyal and true to God. R1882:3,4
He died -- Although he was faithful at heart, in his
character was too much of the "peace at any price" and not
enough of that courage which is prepared to die for
righteousness' sake. R5626:5
1 Samuel 5
1 Samuel 5:6
Emerods -- Hemorrhoids. R5626:5
1 Samuel 6
1 Samuel 6:8
Lay it upon the cart -- Contrary to law. God tolerated the

ignorance of the Philistines who were not his people.
R2003:2
1 Samuel 6:19
50,070 men -- We are not to think of these men as

destroyed in Second Death. R2003:1
1 Samuel 6:20
To whom shall he -- This symbol of his presence. R2002:6
1 Samuel 7
1 Samuel 7:2
Kirjath-jearim -- Between Jaffa and Jerusalem in the

Wady Ali. R1381:5
1 Samuel 7:3
Ashtaroth -- Plural for Ashtoreth, a female diety, goddess

of fertility and sexual relations. R5627:3
Prepare your hearts -- By making a consecration unto the
Lord. R3713:1
He will deliver you -- Samuel was warranted in so telling
the people because this was God's standing agreement with
them. R5627:2
1 Samuel 7:4
Baalim -- Plural for Baal, meaning "Overseer" or

"Caretaker." R5627:2
1 Samuel 7:5
Mizpeh -- Watchtower. R3218:2
1 Samuel 7:6
Mizpeh -- Not the Mizpah east of Jordan where Jacob

covenanted with Laban. R1381:5
Drew water -- As the water was drawn from the depth of
the earth, so their confession came from the depths of their
hearts. R5627:4
Poured it out -- Representing their vows of faithfulness to
the Lord, which would be as irrevocable as the water poured
out. R5627:4
Representing the truth which they could not gainsay, could
not take back, even as water spilled upon the ground cannot
be recovered. R5627:4
We have sinned -- Confession was appropriate when
asking God to receive them back into covenant relationship.
R5627:3
The humility necessary in making such confession was
profitable in their character-building. R5627:4
Samuel judged -- As a judge, a counselor, he gave advice,
gave decisions in respect to their affairs, disputes, etc.
R5627:5
1 Samuel 7:8
He will save us -- They were learning to look for help in

the right direction. R5627:5
It is vain for the Lord's people to call upon the Lord for
assistance and blessing while they are living in sin, in
violation of their covenant and its obligations. R5627:5
Philistines -- Our Philistines are our passions and
weaknesses, and the oppositions of the world and the
Adversary. R5627:6
1 Samuel 7:9
A sucking lamb -- A type of "The Lamb of God, which

taketh away the sin of the world." (John 1:29) R5627:6
1 Samuel 7:10
They were smitten -- As a result Samuel was recognized

as the divine representative and judge of Israel. R4192:6
Before Israel -- As God led, disciplined and delivered his
ancient people, so now he bestows the same attentions upon
his faithful Church. R1883:4
1 Samuel 7:15
Days of his life -- From God's standpoint; even though the

people meantime did have a king. R1882:3
1 Samuel 8
1 Samuel 8:1
Made his sons judges -- Their elevation to office proved

detrimental to them, placing before them opportunities for
dishonest gain. R1887:1
1 Samuel 8:3
Perverted judgment -- They were unreliable. R5636:6

Samuel's integrity is shown by the fact that when it was
proven to him that his sons were guilty of accepting bribes to
pervert justice he promptly removed them from office.
R3216:2
1 Samuel 8:4
Gathered themselves -- They became fearful. They forgot

that God was their real judge, their king, and that Samuel was
only his mouthpiece. R3216:3
1 Samuel 8:5
Make us a king -- Judges developed the Israelites

individually; the kingdom developed them along national
lines. Individual development prepares better for the
Messiah. R4193:2, R4201:4
Commendable human prudence, but not in Israel's case.
R1887:2, R4193:1
It is thus easy to see how Moses could have firmly established
himself at the head of a great empire without difficulty.
HG534:4
Like all the nations -- They felt they were "out of style."
R3216:4
Desiring a united kingdom. R4193:1
A desire to appear great themselves. R1887:4
As exemplified in the "broad-minded" policies of Solomon to
be popular with neighboring kings. R2359:2, R2069:1
They did not want to be a peculiar people. R2359:2
1 Samuel 8:6
Give us a king -- Corresponding to the desire of the

church early in the Gospel age to have an earthly head, a
pope. R3217:2, R4200:1
And Samuel -- Not attempting to decide the matter on his
own responsibility; thereby setting us a fine example.
R3216:5
1 Samuel 8:7
In all that they say -- Changed to a monarchy by the

Lord's permission but without his approval. OV10:2; A48
Rejected me -- They already had a powerful, invisible
king, before whom none of their enemies could stand.
R1887:2
The Lord's promise, "I will restore thy judges" (Isa. 1:26)
intimates the superiority of the republican form of
government. R4193:2, R4201:4
Reign over them -- Since God was Israel's king, Saul and
his successors sat upon the throne of the Lord. R1979:1
1 Samuel 8:8
I brought them up -- They were evidencing a lack of faith

in past providences and weariness in welldoing. R1887:2
1 Samuel 8:11
This will be the manner -- Not the Lord's idea of

government, but his foretelling the actions of imperfect men
exalted to power. R2046:1
Referring to Deut. 17:14-20. R1887:5
Instead of being sovereigns, the people would be the slaves of
a sovereign. R5637:1
For three reasons: (1) his own imperfections; (2) his subjects'
imperfections; and (3) the temptation to abuse power to
maintain order. R4193:5
Immanuel's kingdom will be autocratic in the extreme.
R4193:6
1 Samuel 8:19
Will have a king -- Instead of the republican form of

government established by the Lord. A48; R5636:3,6
1 Samuel 8:22
Make them a king -- An example of an unfavorable

answer to prayer. (See Hosea 13:9-11) R3217:4
1 Samuel 9
1 Samuel 9:2
Choice young man -- Tall, manly, well-balanced mentally,

but not specially religious. R4197:1
His noble stature and physique may have been the result of
divine foreordination. R4197:2
He was higher -- Hence easily recognized later on by the
witch of Endor. R2172:2, HG726:2
Such a type of man appealed strongly to the sentiments of the
people. R4197:2
Though tall and athletic, he was also humble (I Sam. 15:17).
R4197:4
1 Samuel 9:6
Cometh surely to pass -- Pointing out that all things are

known to God and that the prophet was God's special
representative. R4197:1
1 Samuel 9:12
In the high place -- Prohibited by Mosaic Law (Deut.

12:13, 14) but accepted by God until the Temple was built.
R2045:6
1 Samuel 9:19
Will tell thee all -- Samuel's occult powers were

manifested under divine direction at a time when God used
such powers amongst Israel. R5637:5
1 Samuel 9:21
Smallest of the tribes -- Whose territory lay between the

two principal tribes; thus he would be more likely to have the
sympathy and cooperation of the people. R4197:2
The least of all -- In selecting both Saul and David the
Lord sought a meek and quiet spirit. R1888:2
1 Samuel 10
1 Samuel 10:1
A vial of oil -- Typifying the anointing of the holy Spirit.

R4197:6, R5636:2
To be captain -- Representing Jesus as the head of the
Church. R3218:5
1 Samuel 10:6
Spirit of the LORD -- Controlling his words and actions

rather than enlightening his mind in respect to the deep things
of God. R4197:5
Another man -- Similarly, those who believe God's
message and accept the anointing of the holy Spirit also find
new aims, new impulses, new hopes, new desires. R4197:6
1 Samuel 10:9
Another heart -- Fixed his mind upon the more sober

things of life and God's relationship to these. R4197:5
In the sense that he no longer had the "disposition" to be a
farmer, but a divine "disposition" to be a statesman. It did not
signify that he had become a New Creature in Christ.
R5637:4
1 Samuel 10:10
Spirit of God -- An invisible power from God. R5637:3

The Bible makes a clean-cut distinction between the holy
Spirit's operations upon men before Pentecost and since.
R5637:3
God's holy Spirit qualifying Saul for king was a mechanical
one and not the spirit of sonship. R5637:4
1 Samuel 10:16
He told him not -- It was in harmony with the prophet's

advice that Saul kept the matter of his anointing secret.
R4197:1, R3218:2
So now, the people know not the Lord's Anointed, the matter
is kept secret for a time. R3218:5
1 Samuel 10:18
Delivered you -- Samuel impressed upon the people the

fact that no king could have done them better service than
their great King, Jehovah. R3218:2
1 Samuel 10:19
Your adversities -- Calamities or evils sent as

chastisements. A125
Before the LORD -- Israel's solicitude to have the Lord
make the choice is in contrast with present-day wire-pulling
for office. R3218:1
1 Samuel 10:20
Benjamin was taken -- Similarly today, the Lord is

passing by the prominent people and choosing the little and
the humble. R3218:5
Samuel cast lots so the people might know it was the Lord's
choice. R3218:2, R5637:6
1 Samuel 10:21
And Saul -- Meaning "Desired"; typifying, in this case,

Christ. "The desire of all nations shall come." (Hag. 2:7)
R3218:5
They sought him -- In due time search will be made to
find the Lord's Anointed and he will be found at his second
advent. R3218:5
1 Samuel 10:22
Inquired of the LORD -- The Christ of God will be the

desired one of all nations. R3218:5
Hath hid himself -- In marked contrast with some of the
chief ones of the world and the nominal church. R3218:4,
R5636:2
The stuff -- Baggage piled up surrounding the camp.
R3218:4, R5637:6
1 Samuel 10:23
Fetched him thence -- The Lord's Anointed shall be found

at his second advent. R3218:5
He was higher -- Representing the largeness and grandeur
of character in those whom the Lord is choosing. R3218:6
1 Samuel 10:24
None like him -- "Chiefest among ten thousand; the one

altogether lovely." (Song of Sol. 5:10, 16) R3218:6
The people shouted -- So the world of mankind will shout
for joy when they shall realize the presence of the Christ of
God. R3218:6
1 Samuel 10:25
Write it in a book -- By divine direction. R1145:3
1 Samuel 10:26
Went home -- Displaying patience, wisdom, humility.

R5636:1
Went with him -- It is because we see Jesus to be the
Father's choice that we unite ourselves to him. R3218:6
A band of men -- Typifying the Little Flock. R3218:6
1 Samuel 10:27
Children of Belial -- Children of the devil; representing

those out of harmony with God, speaking evil of the members
of the Body of Christ. R3219:1
They despised him -- So mankind is not yet ready for the
reign of the Royal Priesthood. R5636:2
He held his peace -- Made no attempt to exercise
authority, seeing that he had only half-hearted support from
the people. R5635:2
1 Samuel 11
1 Samuel 11:6
The Spirit of God -- The spirit of wisdom or judgment

pertaining to the government of Israel. E176
Came upon Saul -- Energizing his mind mechanically
without affecting him in any moral sense. E175
For as long as he was loyal to God. E176
1 Samuel 11:12
Bring the men -- When the power of Messiah shall be

manifested, the general sentiment of the world toward him
will be loyalty. R3219:4
Put them to death -- The great Armageddon is at hand.
Thereafter the kingdom of Messiah will be popular and they
will say, "Let those who oppose be put to death." R5636:2
1 Samuel 11:13
Not a man -- But the Messiah will show mercy toward

those who, during the darkness of the present time, have
spoken evil of him. R3219:4
The king was wise and generous. R5635:5
1 Samuel 11:14
Gilgal -- One of several prominent places for public

gatherings at which Samuel was in the habit of holding court
as judge. R3222:3
1 Samuel 11:15
They made Saul king -- The interim had given time for
the appreciation of their new king. So, the influence of the
Church, after anointing and before coronation, will have a
helpful influence upon the world. R4199:1
1 Samuel 12
1 Samuel 12:5
Have not found ought -- Every family member, similarly,

should be able to call fellow-members to witness their
faithfulness. R4199:3
He is witness -- Of his spotlessness, his integrity as a
judge. R4193:3
A wonderful tribute. In our day, however, even the noblest
officials have their traducers and backbiters. R3222:3
1 Samuel 12:9
King of Moab -- "Moab is my washpot" (Psa. 108:9) to

cleanse Israel from their defilements. R4199:5
1 Samuel 12:12
Nay -- Concluding that their disasters were not

punishments, but the result of poor political organization.
R4199:5
1 Samuel 12:14
Ye and also the king -- A sin by the king would mean a

national sin, for which the people as well as the king would
be punished; unlike sins of the judges. R4200:3
1 Samuel 12:17
That ye may perceive -- Corroborating his declaration that

their calling for a king was a sin by the people. R4200:3
1 Samuel 12:18
And rain that day -- Ordinarily it does not rain in

Palestine from the end of April to the beginning of October.
R3223:3
1 Samuel 12:22
Will not forsake -- Israelites indeed in spiritual Babylon.

R4200:2
1 Samuel 12:23
To pray for you -- This illustrates the grandeur of

Samuel's character. He seems to have none of the animosities
which some smaller creature might have. R3223:6
1 Samuel 12:24
With all your heart -- A loyal heart will control all the
products of life. R4201:3
Great things -- With even greater force for spiritual Israel.
R4201:5
1 Samuel 13
1 Samuel 13:5
Thirty thousand -- A copyist's error, should be three

thousand. R4206:2
1 Samuel 13:9
He offered -- Without authority to do so. R5638:2,

R3240:2
Zeal, disregarding divine instruction, is not approved.
R4207:1
Similarly, Christians sometimes undertake to do the work of
others, "busy-bodies." (1 Peter 4:15) R4206:5
The burnt offering -- Perhaps this failure of Saul to
recognize his typical mediator typifies fleshly Israel's
rejection of Christ's mediatorial work 3 1/2 years after the
kingdom in embryo was set up at the first advent. R4018:2*
1 Samuel 13:12
I forced myself -- He sinned presumptuously when he

should have waited for the deliverance which God alone
could give. R1887:3
1 Samuel 13:13
Hast done foolishly -- Apparently King Saul was not evilly

intentioned, but lacked proper respect and reverence for the
Lord, as with some in spiritual Israel today. R5647:1
Hast not kept -- This may be said to be the beginning of
Saul's rejection by the Lord. R3224:2
See comments on verse 9 from R4018:2*.
1 Samuel 13:14
Shall not continue -- Yet God did not take the kingdom
from Saul at once. There was time for repentance and
reformation. R1887:6
Jonathan would otherwise have been the next king. R1907:3
Sought him a man -- David. This was said about the time
of David's birth. Similarly, God chose Jacob and Paul before
they were born, and has doubtless so chosen others. R3225:3
His own heart -- In the sense of being full of faith in God
and aiming aright. R3238:3; Q200:T
Not a testimony to the perfection of either the youth or the
man, but rather to his fitness for the office. R1996:2
1 Samuel 13:19
No smith -- The Israelites were poorly armed for this

reason. R5638:1
1 Samuel 14
1 Samuel 14:1
Not his father -- Indicating his great love for his father.
R1907:3
1 Samuel 14:6
Will work for us -- Jonathan had a strong faith in the

power of God on their behalf. R1907:6
1 Samuel 14:15
A very great -- Elohim, strong, power, great, in

connection with inanimate things. E69
1 Samuel 14:39
Jonathan my son -- Indicating Saul's great love for

Jonathan. R1907:6
1 Samuel 15
1 Samuel 15:2
Amalek -- A branch of Esau's family related to the

Israelites and the Arabs of today. R4207.2
1 Samuel 15:3
Go and smite Amalek -- Typical of wilful sinners of the

next age. F174
The people of the land of Canaan had allowed their cup of
iniquity to come to the full. R5663:5
These Amalekites, Sodomites and others were set forth as
examples of God's just indignation and his ultimate
destruction of evil-doers. OV227:5; A112
The Lord used Israel as his sword to enforce his judgment.
R4207:3
No injustice, as the Amalekites were already under
the death sentence. F174
And utterly destroy -- Did not mean they went to
eternal torture. R3224:6
Under divine arrangement, when iniquities have reached their
full, punishment is to be expected. R5647:6, R3225:1
As examples of God's just indignation and determination to
destroy evil-doers; examples which will be of service not only
to others, but also to themselves when their day of judgment
or trial comes. HG345:6
And spare them not -- The death by the sword was with
much less pain than if it had been by pestilence. R3224:6
1 Samuel 15:4
200,000 footmen -- Little more than one-third of the

number that left Egypt. (Num. 1:45, 46) HG362:3
1 Samuel 15:9
People spared Agag -- Many are disposed to destroy the

foolish things connected with sin, but to save alive the king
sin. R3225:3
Not utterly destroy -- Showing too slack an appreciation
of the Lord's word. R4208:1
1 Samuel 15:11
Is turned back -- Saul had not misunderstood, but had

with considerable deliberation violated instructions. R3225:1,
R5431:2, R5647:6
1 Samuel 15:13
I have performed -- To a considerable extent hypocritical.

R3225:1, R5431:2, R5648:1
1 Samuel 15:14
Bleating of the sheep -- Israel was not to destroy their

enemies for their own advantage and enrichment but to act as
the agent of the Lord in executing his decree. R3225:2,
R5648:1
1 Samuel 15:15
To sacrifice -- Fallen human nature ever seeks to justify

itself in its disobedience to God. R5431:3
1 Samuel 15:16
This night -- The night preceding, because in Jewish

reckoning their day began in the evening. R5648:1
1 Samuel 15:17
When thou wast little -- It is only the humble that God

can exalt and use. R1888:4, R4197:4
Christians must likewise be taller than their fellows in respect
to character, but still humble. R4197:4
Anointed thee king -- The exaltation of Saul proved too
great a temptation. R1888:4
1 Samuel 15:19
Fly upon the spoil -- A selfish desire for things which the
Lord has condemned. R4208:1
Imitating the robber nations about them. R3225:2
1 Samuel 15:20
I have obeyed -- Saul had grown more self confident and

less reliant upon the Lord, less attentive to the Lord's
commands. R5648:2
1 Samuel 15:21
But the people -- A man-fearing spirit, fearing the

reproaches of the people. R4208:1
To sacrifice -- See comments on 1 Sam. 15:15 from
R5431:3.
1 Samuel 15:22
To obey -- Obedience to God demands that we strive to be

just in deed and word and thought. R5430:6
A man must be just before he is generous. R5430:6
To obey God is a duty of the very highest type. R5431:3
Better than sacrifice -- No sacrifice will be acceptable
unless we first obey his word. R5431:2, R5647:3
Israel often mistakenly felt that their injustices could be
righted by sacrifice. R5430:2
Before we can make much development in the cultivation of
sacrificial love we must learn to have a love of justice.
R5430:5
How careful it should make us to inquire what the will of the
Lord is. SM438:3
How many of those who have heard the call to "Come out of"
Babylon need to heed the instructions of this lesson.
R3224:3, R5431:1, R5647:3
1 Samuel 15:23
Sin of witchcraft -- Human wilfulness trusts to erring

human judgment in preference to the infallible divine
judgment. R1888:1
Idolatry -- Human wilfulness adores and seeks to please
self rather than God. R1888:1
1 Samuel 15:26
I will not return -- Hence absurd to suppose that Samuel

would hold any conference with Saul arranged by the witch of
Endor. HG726:5
1 Samuel 15:35
No more to see Saul -- Had no further dealings with him

in any way, showing that the manifestations to the witch of
Endor were the work of the fallen angels. R2172:3
It was no longer Samuel's province to go to Saul respecting
the interests of the kingdom. R4209:1
Samuel mourned -- As a father over a wayward son.
R1888:2
Having a feeling of compassion for those who were out of the
way. R5648:5
So we feel a deep interest in matters and persons of our
intimate association. R4209:1
1 Samuel 16
1 Samuel 16:1
How long wilt thou mourn -- A slight reproof. R4209:2

I will send thee -- When our hopes and aims have failed
us, the Lord bids us look in another direction. R4209:2
1 Samuel 16:2
Say, I am come -- If the whole truth would do injury, then

it is the course of wisdom and love to withhold the injurious
element. R4209:5
1 Samuel 16:4
Comest thou peaceably -- Does your coming mean

judgments of the Lord upon us, or blessings? R4209:5,
R3226:2
1 Samuel 16:5
To sacrifice -- The Ark being in the hands of the

Philistines, the Tabernacle services had been discontinued.
R3226:3
Sanctify yourselves -- By washing, and with clean clothes,
drawing nigh to the Lord with their hearts, typifying the
justification and sanctification which the Gospel age Church
enjoys. R3226:3
The sacrifice -- An acknowledgment of sin and
thankfulness to the Lord for his mercy; a consecration of
obedience. R4209:6
1 Samuel 16:6
Looked on Eliab -- Judging from the human standpoint,

Eliab was the most suitable person, but not so in the Lord's
sight. R3226:3
1 Samuel 16:7
Looketh on the heart -- The mind, the intention, the

endeavor. R5947:4
It behooves us, then, to see that our hearts are loyal, faithful
and obedient. R1902:4
He knows to what extent you are striving against sin.
CR335:1
If he sees earnest endeavor to do his will he will cover the
deficiencies and imperfections with the merit of our Savior.
R5757:5
And not on the social, intellectual, moral or educational
position of those he would honor. "Ye see your calling,
brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh are
called." (1 Cor. 1:26) R3226:5
1 Samuel 16:8
Jesse -- Doubtless one of the elders of the city of

Bethlehem. R3226:1
1 Samuel 16:10
Not chosen these -- There was some unfitness in his heart.

R4210:1
1 Samuel 16:11
Keepeth the sheep -- David was counted by his brethren

too insignificant to be considered in this connection, so also
are those whom the Lord is now choosing for his heavenly
kingdom. R3226:4
Will not sit down -- To the feast of which they were about
to partake, celebrating a communion with the Lord. R3227:1
Till he come -- A feast of fat things for the whole world
cannot be participated in until the justifying and sanctifying
sacrifice has been killed and the Anointed One comes.
R3227:1
1 Samuel 16:12
A beautiful countenance -- David was fair complexioned,

with auburn hair, and about 18 to 20 years old. R4210:1,
R3225:3
Goodly to look to -- He had not wasted the precious
spring-time of life in sowing wild oats. R1901:3
This Is he -- One who aptly prefigured Christ. R1901:2;
B255
1 Samuel 16:13
Anointed him -- Samuel probably privately informed

David of the meaning of the anointing but his father and
brethren probably did not understand. R3226:2
As David was anointed years before he became king, so
Christ and the Church receive their anointing years before the
Kingdom's establishment. PD39/50; SM601:1; CR367:1;
Q501:4
We, as members of Christ's Body, have in our anointing of
the holy Spirit a recognition of our coming kingship and
joint-heirship with him if we remain faithful. SM601:1
Came upon David -- The spirit of wisdom and judgment
pertaining to government. Note his subsequent discreetness.
E176
David means "beloved"; we are "accepted in the Beloved."
(Eph. 1:6) Each Body member must be beloved, else he
cannot be acceptable. R3226:4, R4210:4; PD39/50
The reigns of David and Solomon picture the great work of
the Lord's Anointed: David's, the work of the Church in the
flesh; and Solomon's, the work of the Church glorified.
R1901:3, R2010:4
1 Samuel 16:14
But the Spirit -- Previously energizing Saul's mind. E176

An evil spirit -- A spirit of sadness, dejection and loss of
confidence. E176
From the LORD -- Due to the Lord's dealings with him.
E176
1 Samuel 16:23
Evil spirit from God -- The spirit of melancholy due to the

Lord's dealings with him. E176
1 Samuel 17
1 Samuel 17:2
Set the battle -- Evidently the opposing forces were fairly

well matched and neither cared to make the attack. R4215:6
1 Samuel 17:4
Goliath -- Probably a descendant of Anak. R5662:1

Six cubits and a span -- By an 18-inch cubit, would
represent 9'9''. R4216:1
About 10 feet high and probably stout in proportion as
indicated by the weight of his armor, spear and sword.
R3230:2
There is nothing improbable in the story of Goliath.
Encyclopedia Brittanica lists several giants of similar size.
R4216:1
1 Samuel 17:5
Five thousand shekels -- 220 pounds. R5662:2
1 Samuel 17:7
Weaver's beam -- Nearly three inches thick. R5662:2

Six hundred shekels -- 25 pounds. R5662:2
1 Samuel 17:17
David -- Then a young man of about 21 years. R3230:2

To the camp -- About 20 miles from Bethlehem. R4216:2
1 Samuel 17:23
Goliath by name -- Representing Satan and all who are on

his side seeking to bring the Lord's people into bondage to
errors or sins. R3230:5
The hosts of doubt and skepticism are led about by the great
giant of unbelief. R3230:6
Goliath may properly represent pride, backed by worldliness.
Another giant is fear, distrust; another sectarian influence.
R3231:1
The downward tendencies of our flesh must be killed, must be
beheaded, as was Goliath. R4217:2
1 Samuel 17:29
Is there not a cause -- One approved by God. R5662:4
1 Samuel 17:32
David -- Type of Christ. R1901:2; B255
1 Samuel 17:34
A lion -- As David, after being anointed, encountered the

lion, so Jesus, after being anointed, endured a great fight with
the Adversary. R3230:5
1 Samuel 17:36
Lion and the bear -- Christians should be daily alert to

overcome little weaknesses and frailties. R5662:5
Every battle we fight and every victory we win through faith
in God develops strength for future conflicts. R1902:4
Typifying the wolves, who get into the fold in sheep's
clothing, who would destroy the sheep. R3142:3
1 Samuel 17:38
Saul -- At this time being king, though David had already

been privately anointed. R3230:1
1 Samuel 17:39
Not proved them -- David found that it would require

considerable time to learn how to use such armor. R3230:3
Put them off -- Having faith, we need no carnal weapons,
no armor of human invention is of use to us. R1902:1
1 Samuel 17:40
His sling -- Which he had thoroughly practiced. R1902:4

He drew near -- First our strife is in our own hearts;
secondarily against public evils. R5662:5
1 Samuel 17:42
The Philistine -- See comments on 1 Sam. 17:23.

David -- As David risked his life for the deliverance of
Israel, so our Lord Jesus risked and sacrificed his life for the
deliverance of antitypical Israel. R3230:5
1 Samuel 17:43
Am I a dog -- According to tradition, when the giant

laughed and threw his head backward his helmet fell off or
the visor opened. R5662:4, R4216:4, R3230:4
With staves -- A club. Probably Goliath did not notice the
sling. R3230:3
1 Samuel 17:45
Name of the LORD -- Strong in his faith in the Lord, who

was able to give him victory and deliver his people. R3230:4,
R5662:2
1 Samuel 17:46
Will the LORD -- A faith gradually developed in previous

victories over lesser foes helps to give courage and strength
for battling with the most terrifying giants we may encounter.
R5662:4
1 Samuel 17:49
Smote -- Many in the tribe of Benjamin could throw such

sling stones to a hair's breadth. (Judg. 20:16) R3230:5,
R4216:4
In his forehead -- The neck and a portion of the head were
exposed, and David's stone struck the vital spot of the
forehead. R3230:5
1 Samuel 17:50
David -- "Beloved;" The Christ, Head and Body. R5662:5

With a sling -- Shortly a sling-stone of truth is to smite
down the great giant of sin and iniquity. R5662:5
1 Samuel 18
1 Samuel 18:1
Knit with -- The two beings were united. R205:3

Their affections, confidences and loves were interwoven.
R3232:3
Loved him -- Because of his nobility, courage, honesty,
faithfulness and, above all, his trust in God. R3232:6
As his own soul -- The bond of union was the faith and
devotion of each to God. R3232:6
Well represents the love of our Lord Jesus for his people.
R3233:1
Also represents a love and friendship amongst the Lord's
people, stronger and deeper than any earthly relationship.
R3233:3
1 Samuel 18:4
And Jonathan -- May be considered to be one of the

grandest characters in the world. R4223:2
Doing what was derogatory to his own natural interests.
R3232:3
Gave it to David -- In recognition of the fact that he was
the Lord's anointed, the Lord's choice for the kingdom by and
by. R1908:1
1 Samuel 18:8
Saul -- Perhaps pictures those who, in the nominal

system, affect to be reigning now. R4219:1
Displeased him -- Some are jealous because of the
progress of present truth against the institutions of Babylon.
R4219:1
1 Samuel 18:10
Evil spirit -- Perhaps a fallen spirit or demon. R3231:6

An evil mind, a perverse mind or disposition. R4218:2,
R3231:6
The spirit of sadness, dejection and loss of confidence. E176
From God -- Due to the Lord's dealings with him. E176
Not of; apart from; contrary to the Lord. R3231:6, R4218:3
And he prophesied -- Spoke unwise, improper, foolish
things. R3231:6
Corresponds with the power of evil spirits exercised in the
past. R4219:1
1 Samuel 18:11
Cast -- Original word means simply a motion.

Subsequently he did actually hurl the weapon. (1,Sam. 19:10)
R3232:1
Javelin -- The "Image of the Beast" may seek to destroy us
with the javelin of bitter words and slander. R4219:2
Avoided -- We shall not be injured as New Creatures no
matter what the Lord may permit to come against us.
R4219:2
1 Samuel 18:12
Afraid of David -- "The darkness hateth the light." (John

3:19,20) The worldly feel a jealousy toward those who have
more of the Lord's spirit than themselves. R3232:4
1 Samuel 18:27
Slew -- The divine instructions to Israel were that the

Philistines and all other occupants of Canaan should be
utterly destroyed. R5663:5
1 Samuel 19
1 Samuel 19:2
Delighted much -- The love of Jonathan has become a

proverb. R5663:2
1 Samuel 19:6
And Saul hearkened -- Indicating Jonathan's great

influence with his father. R1907:6
1 Samuel 19:9
The evil spirit -- The reverse of the Lord's spirit of

kindness, justice, love. R5663:1
Jealousy is the bitter fruit of selfishness gone to seed. It is the
most terrible manifestation of selfishness. R5662:6
1 Samuel 20
1 Samuel 20:1
David -- Then about 21 years of age. R3232:2

Jonathan -- The recognized heir to the throne, about 35
years of age. R3232:2
1 Samuel 20:2
He will show it me -- Intimate confidence between father

and son. R1907:6
1 Samuel 20:5
Third day -- Showing that when a month has 30 days, the

last day of a month and the first of the next are both kept as a
New Moon. R4127:4
1 Samuel 20:14
And thou -- When thou comest into the kingdom.

R1908:2
1 Samuel 20:15
My house for ever -- As you might be tempted to do when

my descendants urge their claims to the throne. R1908:2
1 Samuel 20:17
To swear again -- David kept his covenant in the kindness

that he showed to Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son. (2 Sam. 9)
R2010:6
He loved him -- Jonathan's friendship, love, was not of the
effervescent kind. It was the genuine article. R5664:2,
R4223:2
The influences making for true friendship, true love, are from
the Lord. It was because Jonathan realized that David was
guided by the spirit of righteousness that he loved him.
R5664:3
The king was made jealous; Jonathan, reversely, loved his
rival. R4223:2
1 Samuel 20:23
The LORD be between -- We are to know our brother

according to the spirit, and not according to the flesh.
R4247.6*
1 Samuel 20:41
Three times -- An eastern custom expressive of humility

and appreciation. R4224:1
In token of great respect for both the person and the office of
his friend. R1908:1
1 Samuel 22
1 Samuel 22:2
In distress -- Due to the erratic, unjust course of Saul.

R3239:2,1
1 Samuel 22:3
Be with you -- As a place of safety. R4225:3
1 Samuel 23
1 Samuel 23:2
Shall I go -- We should never engage in battle without the

assurance that the battle is the Lord's, nor forget that our
weapons are not carnal weapons. R2015:3
1 Samuel 23:16
And Jonathan -- In this instance reminding us of the

attitude of the Ancient Worthies towards the glorified Church.
R1908:5
In God -- Their great bond of union was the faith and
devotion of each to God. R3232:6
1 Samuel 24
1 Samuel 24:8
And bowed himself -- Shaw-kaw, worshipped.

Worship of Christ is not displeasing to God. E73
1 Samuel 24:9
And David -- Type of Christ. B255
1 Samuel 25
1 Samuel 25:8
Give -- Jewish Law provided that any hungry person might

enter any farm and eat to his satisfaction. R3239:2
1 Samuel 25:23
Bowed herself -- Shaw-kaw, worshipped. E73
1 Samuel 26
1 Samuel 26:7
Within the trench -- Within the space, or corral, formed

by the camp wagons. R3239:2
At his bolster -- To distinguish him as chief. This custom
is still followed by the Bedouins of Arabia. R3239:2
1 Samuel 26:9
And David -- Type of Christ. B255

1 Samuel 26:11
The LORD'S anointed -- Saul had been anointed with

special anointing oil, typifying the holy Spirit. To have made
an assault upon him would have been to attack the Almighty's
arrangements. R5673:2, R3239:3
1 Samuel 26:22
And David answered -- He neither affirmed nor denied

Saul's guilt. R3239:6
1 Samuel 26:23
To every man -- According to his righteousness. R4225:6
1 Samuel 26:24
Eyes of the LORD -- Not of King Saul. R3239:6
1 Samuel 26:25
Went on his way -- Unwilling to trust himself to Saul's

power. Illustrating that love for enemies need not lead us to
be too readily convinced of reformation on their part until a
reasonable time has shown that the profession of reformation
is not merely a passing emotion. R3239:6
1 Samuel 28
1 Samuel 28:6
Answered him not -- He was out of fellowship with God.

PD42/52
It is not for a moment supposable that God and Samuel,
having refused to communicate with the king, would change
and permit a witch, condemned by divine Law, to overrule the
matter. PD42/52; R2172:3,4
Urim -- The Urim and Thummim answers of the Lord to
the inquiries of the people had ceased. R5615:5
1 Samuel 28:7
A familiar spirit -- Familiar with the spirits who were

disobedient in the days of Noah. PD42/52
These fallen angels seek to make void the Word of God
despite being restrained in "chains of darkness." (Jude 6)
R4976:2
1 Samuel 28:8
Disguised himself -- Endeavored in vain to do so as "from

his shoulders and upward he was higher than any of the
people." (1 Sam. 9:2) R2172:2
Divine unto me -- Make known. R755:4*
1 Samuel 28:11
Bring me up Samuel -- Awaken Samuel. PD42/52
1 Samuel 28:12
Woman saw Samuel -- The evil spirits caused to pass

before the medium's mental vision the familiar likeness of
Samuel. R2172:2
1 Samuel 28:14
And she said -- Describing a mental or "astral" picture.

HG726:2
Covered with a mantle -- Saul did not enquire why
Samuel wore the same old mantle as a spirit that he had worn
as an earthly being. HG726:3
Saul perceived -- When she described the mental (or
astral) picture, Saul recognized it as Samuel. R2172:2,
R4234:2
Saul saw nothing; the witch said she saw Samuel. PD42/52
And he stooped -- He did not question how it could be that
Samuel looked as old and stooped as before and wore a
mantle if he was now a spirit being and far better off.
R2172:2
1 Samuel 28:15
And Samuel said -- The manner, style and sentiments of

the dead prophet were assumed, the better to deceive.
R2172:3
These "lying spirits" always seek to counterfeit the face,
manner and disposition of the dead. R2172:3
Disquieted me -- Corresponding to the Jewish belief that
when a person had died he became unconscious in sheol, the
grave waiting for a resurrection. R2172:3; HG726:4
To bring me up -- Up from the grave, not down from
heaven. R2172:3; HG726:4
Answereth me no more -- Saul was easily deceived into
thinking that while Samuel had refused to commune with him
while alive, he had now been forced to commune with him by
the powers of the witch. R2172:3
Neither by prophets -- Hence Samuel would have had no
right to give him any information which the Lord was
unwilling to give him. HG726:5
I have called thee -- His boldness in still attempting to
ascertain the future is remarkable. He should have feared
God's further displeasure in doing that which was forbidden.
R4234:3
1 Samuel 28:16
LORD is departed -- See comments on 1Sam. 28:6.

Become thine enemy -- The familiar spirit, impersonating
Samuel, foretold nothing which Saul himself did not
anticipate. R2172:4
1 Samuel 28:17
LORD hath rent -- Saul anticipated what he heard. He

knew that the kingdom should be taken from him and his
family. HG726:6
1 Samuel 28:19
And to morrow -- Scholars say that the battle and the

death of Saul occurred several days later.
Thou and thy sons -- The familiar spirit erred--two of
Saul's sons escaped and lived for years. R2172:5; HG727:1
Be with me -- Would wicked Saul be with righteous
Samuel? R754:6*
From the standpoint of the general faith then, that all who die
go to sheol, the grave. R2172:6
Host of Israel -- The demons could see that one day's
battle would probably settle the question; and since Saul was
already panicstricken the death of the king and his household
would be the only logical result. R2172:5, R4234:2
Into the hand -- Not that Satan is a prophet, but he is a
student and believer of God's Word. R265:5
1 Samuel 30
1 Samuel 30:8
Shall I pursue -- We should never engage in battle without

the assurance that the battle is the Lord's, nor forget that our
weapons are not carnal. R2015:3
1 Samuel 31
1 Samuel 31:1
Mount Gilboa -- In the vicinity of the Hill of Megiddo, or

Armageddon. Di; OV268:1
1 Samuel 31:4
Fell upon it -- "He ate of the fruit of his own way and was
filled with his own devices." (Prov. 1:31) R3240:5
Saul committed suicide, lest falling alive into the hands of his
enemies they would have tortured him. R3240:6
1 Samuel 31:12
Took the body -- Thus they attested their recognition of

the king's kindness to them. R4234:5
Burnt them there -- Probably to prevent their further
desecration. R3241:1
2 Samuel
General
We have no certain knowledge of the regularity of
Tabernacle worship during the period from Joshua to this
time. Quite probably the services were maintained with more
or less regularity. Shortly after Israel entered Palestine
Joshua located the Ark at Shiloh. That it was still there at the
close of the period of the Judges and while Samuel lived with
Eli is shown by 1 Sam. 1:3. The sons of Eli took the Ark with
them into battle against the Philistines ... the Lord permitted it
to be captured. However, while they possessed it a curse
seemed to accompany it. The Philistines loaded it upon a cart
and started the oxen in the direction of the Israelites. From
the time of its return the Ark was in the custody of Abinadab.
R3252:2,3
David was in his thirtieth year at the time of Saul's death.
During the ten preceding years he had led a varied life ...
banished from Saul's court, hunted by the king as a wild
beast, chased as a brigand and looked upon with distrust by
the majority of the people. R4234:3 David waited upon the
Lord those many years, fully confident that in the end he
should be the king of Israel, not hastening the event in any
way but simply standing ready for the responsibilities and the
power of the office where the Lord should put him. It was
more than seven years after this before he became the king of
all Israel. R5674:2,3
2 Samuel 1
2 Samuel 1:1
When David -- Type of Christ. B255

Now in his 30th year. R4234:3
Of the Amalekites -- Typical of wilful sinners in the
Millennial age. F174
2 Samuel 1:2
Came to David -- David and his men had been living in

the country of the Philistines and had been treated by them as
allies. R3245:6
2 Samuel 1:9
Slay me -- Probably manufacturing this part of the story to

bring honor to himself. R5674:2
2 Samuel 1:15
Fall upon him -- Demonstrating David's patience in

waiting for God's time and way to give him the kingdom, and
his unwillingness to sanction the death of the king at the
hands of another. R3245:3,6
2 Samuel 1:17
This lamentation -- The Dead March from Saul, based on

this poem, is identified with the funeral services of the great
today. R5674:1
2 Samuel 1:18
The use of the bow -- Called the Song of the Bow.

R5674:1, R4224:2
2 Samuel 1:23
Lovely and pleasant -- No suggestion of how Saul had

persecuted him or sought his life. R5674:1
2 Samuel 1:26
Passing the love -- Illustrating the still more wonderful

"love of Jesus." R4224:2
2 Samuel 2
2 Samuel 2:1
David -- Not wishing to choose his own course. R3246:1

He had a great appreciation of justice and also a breadth of
sympathy for his enemies. R5674:4
Of the LORD -- Probably through the High Priest,
Abiathar. R3246:1
What a wonderful example we have in David's course! How
much Christians can learn of patient waiting for the Lord's
time in all their affairs. R5674:2
Hebron -- A central city of the tribe of Judah, where he
and his family were well known and safe. R3246:1
2 Samuel 2:4
Men of Judah came -- Thus falling in line not only with

the divine anointing, but also with their own preferences.
R1996:5
Anointed David king -- As in the case of David, Jesus did
not begin his reign immediately after being anointed. He first
needed various experiences. So with the Church. R4210:5
2 Samuel 2:5
David sent messengers -- Illustrating greatness through

gentleness. R1709:1*
Blessed be ye -- Wishing them to know that he did not
regard their act as an act of enmity, but rather one of decency
and loyalty. R4235:3
How different was this from the evil spirit that would triumph
over the death of a powerful rival and relentless enemy.
R1996:6
2 Samuel 2:7
Anointed me king -- Hinting that the men of Jabesh might

like him as king also. R4235:4
2 Samuel 2:9
King over Gilead -- David made no attempt to coerce the

other tribes. R5674:3
2 Samuel 2:11
King In Hebron -- Patiently waiting for the Lord's time

and way to make him king over all Israel. R3245:3
So the Lord's people, having been anointed kings and priests
unto God, it is their part to wait patiently for the Lord's time
for their exaltation. R1996:5
2 Samuel 3
2 Samuel 3:1
Long war -- Brothers fought against brothers--one party of

God's favored people against another. This continued for two
years. R4235:5
Pictures spiritual Israel, when brother shall be against brother,
which the Lord will permit just prior to the establishment of
the Kingdom. R4235:5
2 Samuel 3:3
Maacah -- The daughter of a heathen king. Absalom was

brought up under the influence of a heathen mother with little
respect or reverence for the true God. R2024:6, R3261:6,
R5700:2
2 Samuel 3:38
Prince and a great man -- A courageous statement in the

presence of his own ablest soldier. R5674:4
2 Samuel 3:39
The LORD shall -- In the future (the Millennial age).

R2613:6, R723:4
2 Samuel 4
2 Samuel 4:11
A righteous person -- David was broad-minded and

generous toward his enemies. R5674:4
2 Samuel 5
2 Samuel 5:3
A league with them -- Probably a kind of charter outlining

the rights and limitations of the people and the king.
R2001:3, R4236:1
Anointed David -- The third time that anointing oil was
put upon his head. R5674:5
King over Israel -- David was 37 years old when made
king over all Israel. This was 7 1/2 years after the death of
Saul and about 17 years after David had been first anointed
by Samuel. R5674:4
2 Samuel 5:5
And six months -- Thus David actually reigned more than

40 years. HG68:4
Jerusalem -- Chosen by David for the capital of the now
united kingdom; within Judah, but central to all Israel.
R2001:3
2 Samuel 5:6
Jebusites -- Jerusalem was still inhabited by the Jebusites,

a remnant of the Canaanites, whom Israel was commissioned
to destroy. R2001:6
Blind and the lame -- Boasting defiantly that even the
blind and lame among them would be able to defend the city.
R2001:6
2 Samuel 5:7
Strong hold of Zion -- Tower of David, near the Jaffa

gate. R1390:2
2 Samuel 5:8
Up to the gutter -- The water courses. R2001:6
2 Samuel 5:12
Established him -- The secret of David's success was not

merely fixity of purpose, but additionally that his purpose was
kept fully in accord with the divine will. R4255:3
2 Samuel 5:19
Shall I go up -- We should never engage in battle without

the assurance that the battle is the Lord's, nor forget that our
weapons are not carnal. R2015:3
2 Samuel 5:20
Baal-perazim -- Type of God's deliverance of regathered

Israel. D555
Smote them -- Illustrating God's "strange act." (Isa.28:21)
R564:6
2 Samuel 5:21
David -- Type of Christ. B255
2 Samuel 6
2 Samuel 6:1
Gathered together -- To revive the religious sentiments of

the people. R3252:4
30,000 -- It is wiser, better every way, that all the Lord's
people participate in any prominent matter connected with the
Lord's service, according to ability. R3252:4
2 Samuel 6:2
Baale of Judah -- Or Kirjath-jearim (margin). The Ark

was at Kirjath-jearim a total of 70 years. R3252:3, R5679:3,
R2003:1
To bring up -- David's spiritual nature began to assert
itself in respect to the government of Israel. R5679:3
Between the cherubims -- Between love and power and
above a foundation of justice, represented by the Mercy Seat.
R3252:3; T123-125; R5680:1
2 Samuel 6:3
Upon a new cart -- After the example of the Philistines.

R2003:1
Instead of upon the shoulders of the Levites as instructed by
the Lord. R3252:6, R2003:1
2 Samuel 6:7
Against Uzzah -- For his loss of respect of the Ark as

representative of God and for the bad example in the sight of
all Israel. R3252:6
God smote him -- God had tolerated the ignorance of the
Philistines, but he slew Uzzah as a reminder of his displeasure
with Israel for their carelessness in complying with the
requirements of the Law. R2003:2
Illustrating the importance of types being kept in every
minutiae. T12
For his error -- In handling the holy things of the divine
Word and service of the truth. Spiritual Israelites are not at
liberty to do as they please, merely assuring themselves that
their motives are good. R4260:1
There he died -- No injury was done to Uzzah's eternal
future. R3253:2
2 Samuel 6:8
Was displeased -- With his former determination to bring

the Ark to Jerusalem; and that through lack of care matters
had gone astray. R3252:5
Divine providence gave him a great lesson of reverence for
the Almighty and carefulness in respect to his laws.
R5679:3,5
A breach upon Uzzah -- This was no injustice, because he
was already under the death sentence anyway. F174
It was necessary because everything connected with the
Tabernacle (Ark) typified something greater and more
important to come afterward. T12
2 Samuel 6:9
David was afraid -- The king and the people understood

the smiting of Uzzah as a rebuke for their disobedience, their
lack of proper reverence for the symbol of God's presence.
R2003:2
2 Samuel 6:11
Blessed Obed-edom -- The Ark was in the house of

Abinadab 70 years, but without bringing him any special
blessing. Similarly, the Bible in some families brings no
blessings from year to year; but in others it brings great
blessings in a few short months because of greater reverence
for the Lord and his Word. R3253:4
Obed-edom was a Levite who doubtless reverently received
the Ark. R2003:2
2 Samuel 6:12
Brought up the ark -- This time it was reverently borne

according to divine directions. (See 1 Chron. 15:1, 2, 13-15,
28) R2003:4
2 Samuel 6:13
Bare the ark -- By the divinely directed method. It is not

for us to be inventive in respect to divine services, but rather
to be students of the divine will. R5680:3
2 Samuel 6:14
David danced -- An expressive symbol of joy. R2003:5

The 24th Psalm is supposed to have been sung as marching
accompaniment on this occasion. R4260:4
2 Samuel 6:15
Brought up -- King David composed Psalm 24 for this

very occasion. R5680:4
The ark -- The Ark represented Christ. The bringing of it
into the city corresponds in a measure to our receiving of
Christ. R5680:5
2 Samuel 7
2 Samuel 7:2
The ark of God -- A symbol of the divine presence.

R2010:5
2 Samuel 7:5
Shalt thou build -- No justification for elegant church

buildings and furnishments. R2010:5
For me to dwell in -- We are not to conclude that, because
our plans are reverential and designed for the glory of God,
therefore they must have the divine approval. R3258:6
2 Samuel 7:6
In a tabernacle -- The Lord prefers that his representation

in the world in the present time shall be extremely simple and
unostentatious. R3259:2
2 Samuel 7:8
Unto my servant -- To David and will evidently have a

partially literal fulfilment, although the substance is in Christ.
R1364:2
From the sheepcote -- The low estate we occupied on the
animal plane. R3259:4
Ruler over my people -- The Lord has advanced the
Church step by step until now we are joint-heirs with Jesus
Christ. R3259:4
2 Samuel 7:9
All thine enemies -- David, as the man of war, represents

the saints of God in their present militant condition, warring
with the world, the flesh and the devil. R3259:2
2 Samuel 7:10
And move no more -- A prophecy of the Millennial age.

R3259:4
2 Samuel 7:12
Thy days -- The reign of David prefigured the preparatory

work of this Gospel age. R2010:4
Thy seed after thee -- Partially to Solomon, ultimately to
Christ. R2010:4, R2372:6
A prophecy of the Lord's first advent. R1673:6
Establish his kingdom -- The reign of Solomon
represented the glorious reign of Christ. R3259:3,6, R2010:4
2 Samuel 7:13
An house -- The construction of Solomon's Temple

typified the resurrection of the Church. R3259:3
A symbol of future spiritual Israel. R2010:5
I will stablish -- The final confirmation of the Abrahamic
covenant. R2372:6, R3114:6
His kingdom for ever -- The Period from Zedekiah's reign
to that of Christ being merely an interregnum, a suspension of
David's kingdom. R3259:5; PD47/59
2 Samuel 7:14
I will chasten him -- May be properly applied to the

spirit-begotten sons of God. "What son is he whom the father
chasteneth not." (Heb. 12:7) R3259:6
2 Samuel 7:16
Established for ever -- See comment on 2 Sam. 7:13.
2 Samuel 8
2 Samuel 8:7
Shields of gold -- The spoils, dedicated to the Lord, were

reserved for the Temple which Solomon was to build.
R2015:5
2 Samuel 8:11
Did dedicate -- The mission of the Church in this present

time is to prepare the gold, silver and precious things (the
saints) for the future Temple. R3259:3
2 Samuel 9
2 Samuel 9:1
Is there yet any -- David's search for opportunities to do

good reminds us that such should be our attitude. R4269:1
For Jonathan's sake -- David had promised to show
kindness to Jonathan's posterity. (1 Sam. 20:14-17) R2010:5
There is no more worthy trait to adorn a righteous character
than that of gratitude, that returns filial affection to God and
encourages loyal devotion between friends. R2010:6
So the glorified Church will remember its covenant to bless
the Ancient Worthies first. R1908:5
2 Samuel 9:6
Fell on his face -- His fear that the king's words might be
treacherous caused him fear and trepidation. R4268:6
And did reverence -- Shaw-kaw, worshipped. Worship of
Christ is not displeasing to Jehovah. E73
2 Samuel 9:7
Restore thee -- This shows David's confidence that the

kingdom should not be taken from his posterity. R4268:6
Eat bread at my table -- With people of Oriental lands
this implies a pledge of friendship and fidelity; and to eat
continually implies membership in the family. R4268:6
2 Samuel 10
2 Samuel 10:12
Seemeth him good -- If the battle is the Lord's it is sure to

be victorious. R2015:5
2 Samuel 10:19
And served them -- Under David Abraham's seed first

possessed the land from the river of Egypt to the Euphrates.
(Gen. 15:18) R2015:5
2 Samuel 11
2 Samuel 11:2
And it came to pass -- This narrative is given as a part of

the genealogy of King Solomon, son of Bath-Sheba. R1420:2
Roof of the king's house -- It is easier to live a consecrated

life in poverty than when surrounded by the wealth and
liberties of court. R5681:1
Very beautiful -- It would be a great mistake to suppose
that the blindness of intoxication with the spirit of the world
constitutes a proper excuse for sins committed in that state.
R2017:1
2 Samuel 11:3
Sent and enquired -- First, David coveted his neighbor's

wife. R5681:2
2 Samuel 11:4
And David -- Possibly to some extent influenced by the

prevailing notions that whatever the king was pleased to do
was proper because of his exalted station. R3253:6
Took her -- He was awake to sin, asleep to righteousness.
R5681:2
Lay with her -- Considering the higher interpretation of
adultery and murder in Matt. 5:22, 28 some Christians may
find themselves near the plane of David as respects sin.
R3254:1
2 Samuel 11:15
Set ye Uriah -- Compared with other contemporary kings

David's course was moderate; not directly taking Uriah's life
but merely conniving at his death. R3254:5
2 Samuel 12
2 Samuel 12:1
Sent Nathan -- It required courage, but whoever has a

message from the Lord must needs have the courage to deliver
it wisely and faithfully. R5681:3, R2017:1
The prophet was sent directly to the king. PD43/53; R4271:5
There were two men -- The prophet made a parable
showing the injustice and asked what would be a just
decision. PD43/53; R5681:3, R4271:5
2 Samuel 12:5
Anger was greatly kindled -- King David asked the name

of the unjust man that he might be punished. PD43/53;
R5681:3, R4271:5
Shall surely die -- David unconsciously condemned
himself to death. R2017:3
2 Samuel 12:7
Thou art the man -- It was a critical moment for David.

Would he proudly resist the power of the truth, claiming that
the customs of the world, instead of the Law of God, were to
him the standard of privilege? R2017:2,3
Blessed is he who is not condemned by his own declarations
in respect to the affairs of others. R3255:6
2 Samuel 12:11
Of thine own house -- Absalom's rebellion was the means

employed for this punishment. R1397:2
2 Samuel 12:13
I have sinned -- The king saw the horrible mistake and

humbly confessed the sin to the Lord. PD43/53; R5681:3,
R4271:5
David saw his own conduct, not from the standpoint of other
kings and what they did, but from the standpoint of the divine
law of righteousness. R5681:3, R1396:6
The 51st Psalm is generally recognized as his expression of
contrition for the sin. R3254:2
Put away thy sin -- Justice would have been required in
respect to the sins; but to the repentant soul the Lord's favor
would, nevertheless, still be granted. R5681:4
God showed mercy on David (as to all Jews under the Law's
typical sacrifices) in that he made allowance for his fallen
condition. R1397:2
Realizing the Lord's forgiveness for the penitent moves one
toward repentance. R3254:2
For the Christian, involuntary sins are cancelled; but
wilfulness has a penalty attached. R1397:4
Sinful Christians find great consolation in the Lord's
compassion if they are exercised as was David by their sins.
R3254:2
Thou shalt not die -- Because he had confessed and
repented. R5681:3, R2017:5
The penalty of David's sin was death, under two indictments:
Lev. 20:10 and Lev. 24:17. In view of his repentance the
Lord remitted the death penalty, inflicting only such
punishment as was necessary for the correction. R2017:4,
R5681:3
If sin is fallen into, God does everything to encourage the
acceptance of forgiveness and reformation, though the sinner
is obliged to bear some severe penalty. R5681:4; Q281:3
2 Samuel 12:14
To blaspheme -- While David's sin has given occasion to

blasphemers, his repentance and forgiveness have given hope
and encouragment to many who have been overtaken in a
fault. R3260:6
2 Samuel 12:18
The child died -- Though the Lord indicated his

forgiveness, yet there must be a punishment. R5106:4,
R3255:5
2 Samuel 12:24
Solomon -- His name signifies "the peaceful," thus

commemorating God's promise concerning him. R2045:3
The LORD loved him -- God accepted David's penitence
and restored him to his favor. PD43/53
2 Samuel 12:25
His name Jedidiah -- Meaning "Beloved of Jehovah";

indicating David's forgiveness and restoration to divine favor.
R2045:3
2 Samuel 12:31
Put them under saws -- While we mark with pleasure the

noble traits in David's character, we must deplore the steps of
his decline leading to unnecessary cruelty, not only
conquering, but triumphing ignobly over his foes. R2016:3
2 Samuel 13
2 Samuel 13:1
And it came to pass -- This narrative is given to account

for Absalom's estrangement from his father David. R1420:2
2 Samuel 13:23
After two full years -- For two years no punishment was

inflicted because David did not know what to do even though
the matter (vs. 10-21) sorely vexed him. R4275:5
2 Samuel 13:28
Kill him -- A modern method of assassination is

slanderous words, by insinuations, etc., often committed in
the presence of the heavenly brotherhood. R4275:6
2 Samuel 13:37
Absalom fled -- Fearing David's indignation. R2025:1

Went to Talmai -- Absalom's maternal grandfather.
R2025:1
2 Samuel 13:38
To Geshur -- Surrounded with the influences of a heathen

land. R2025:4
2 Samuel 14
2 Samuel 14:4
And did obeisance -- See comments on 2 Sam. 9:6.
2 Samuel 14:28
Not the king's face -- As a continued showing of disfavor.

R4276:1
This experience fastened upon the mind of Absalom the

conviction that his father no longer loved him. This prepared
him to set at defiance his kingly authority. R2025:1,
R4278:1
2 Samuel 14:32
See the king's face -- Absalom realized that as an exiled

prince his chances of acceptance as king of Israel would be
comparatively small in the event of his father's death.
R4276:1
2 Samuel 15
2 Samuel 15:1
Prepared him chariots -- A custom from his grandfather's

court. R3262:1
2 Samuel 15:2
King for judgment -- The king acted as a superior court,

so that cases not satisfactorily adjudicated before the regular
judges were appealed to him. R3262:2, R5700:2
2 Samuel 15:4
I were made judge -- Would that I were king! It would be

different! R5700:3
Do him justice -- Implying that his hearer had justice on
his side and would be pleased with the results. R3262:2
2 Samuel 15:6
Stole the hearts -- By feigning humility and zeal for

justice, by careful attention to his personal appearance and by
attention to those in influential positions. R4276.1
Many in our day are willing to steal the affections of another
and to misrepresent another to their own advantage. R3262:3
2 Samuel 15:7
After 40 years -- After four years; the error of a

transcriber. R2025:5, R4276:2
Four years from his full acceptance back to fellowship with
his father. R3262:3
Let me go -- In order not to excite the suspicion of the
king or others he asked permission to go. R3262:4, R4276:2
2 Samuel 15:10
Absalom reigneth -- The people would gain the

impression that the revolution of the kingdom was complete
and that David was thoroughly vanquished. R3262:4
Although the Lord restored David to divine favor and
communion, he punished him severely for his sin--Absalom's
rebellion being the means employed. R1397:2, R3262:5
2 Samuel 15:11
Knew not anything -- Were totally ignorant of the use that

was being made of them. R3262:4
2 Samuel 15:12
Sent for Ahithophel -- This would mean a tower of

strength to Absalom's position and ambition. R4276:4
The conspiracy -- Begun when Absalom returned from
exile, or two years later. R3262:3
So today: the Lord will permit conspiracies against the truth,
but to go only so far as they will work for his glory. R3262:6
Increased continually -- Political intrigue stole the hearts
of the people and made the cause of Absalom temporarily
very prosperous. R2024:3
2 Samuel 15:14
Let us flee -- David wished to avoid the horrors of civil

war. He was overwhelmed with grief that his enemy was his
son and that his former friends had become his enemies.
R4277:1
2 Samuel 15:17
All the people -- His bodyguard consisted mostly of

foreigners. (vs. 18) R4277:2
2 Samuel 15:19
An exile -- It is supposed that the 4th Psalm and portions

of the 3rd were written from the standpoint of David's
experiences as an exile from his capital. R4277:3
2 Samuel 16
2 Samuel 16:20
Then said Absalom -- This narrative is given to prove that

the Lord's penalty against David for his injustice toward Uriah
was fulfilled. R1420:2
2 Samuel 17
2 Samuel 17:22
Then David -- Meaning "beloved," type of Christ.

R3226:4
Passed over Jordan -- Meaning "Judged down,"
"Condemned." R3086:4
2 Samuel 18
2 Samuel 18:1
David -- Now about 62 years of age. R4277:5
2 Samuel 18:5
Deal gently -- Mark the father's love, even under extreme,

trying circumstances. He charged the soldiers to do Absalom
no harm. R2025:2, R3268:2, R4277:5
2 Samuel 18:7
20,000 men -- Absalom's forces. R3268:1
2 Samuel 18:15
Slew him -- Absalom is a distinguished example of

dishonor to a father. R3262:1
How suddenly God brought to naught the evil designs of this
wicked young man. R2025:2
2 Samuel 18:16
Joab -- Chief of King David's generals. R3268:1,

R4277:5
Blew the trumpet -- Of victory. The conspiracy had come
to naught, the usurper was dead. R2025:3
2 Samuel 18:21
To Cushi -- Literally, "To the Cushite," the negro.

R3268:4
2 Samuel 18:27
With good tidings -- A good man should always seek to

carry a good message. R3268:1, R4277:6
2 Samuel 18:29
Is ... Absalom safe? -- In harmony with David's parting

words (vs. 5). R3268:2
It was far more pleasing to the Lord that he should love his
enemy too much rather than too little. R4277:6
God so loved us while we were "yet sinners." (Rom. 5:8)
R4277:6
But I knew not -- The Lord's people should be particular
to discriminate between knowledge and belief and hearsay.
R3268:4, R4278:1
2 Samuel 18:33
O my son Absalom -- David's former attitude of neglect

toward his son was a great mistake, the realization of which
doubtless deepened the grief. R2025:1
Parents should heed well this lesson. If David had exercised
more kindness, loving counsel and sympathy with his son, he
might have been spared this bitter lament. R2025:4,
R3268:5, R5700:5
I had died for thee -- David was more anxious for
Absalom than for his throne or for his own life. R3268:2
We have two parallels in Scripture: Moses (Ex. 32:32) and
Paul (Rom. 9:3). R4278:2,4
For five years David had allowed the hard side of his nature
to conceal his tender emotions. How often is the mistake of
David repeated by parents. R2025:2,4
There is not in all of the Old Testament a passage of greater
pathos than this. R4278:2
2 Samuel 19
2 Samuel 19:9
At strife -- Israel had been thrown into a state of

confusion, threatening anarchy, being left for a time without
any official head or king. R1690:1
2 Samuel 19:11
Bring the king back -- This is an illustration of a very

similar condition of things in the world today. Earth's rightful
king is not upon his throne, nor has the world recognized his
right to it nor desired his return. Men have tried every
experiment of self-government and all have ended in failure.
R1690:2
2 Samuel 19:14
Return thou -- Practically the whole nation had given

allegiance to Absalom, so it was necessary for them to
publicly request King David to return. R3262:5
2 Samuel 21
2 Samuel 21:9
Days of harvest -- The reaping of the barley commenced

the harvest, the wheat following. R4127:1
2 Samuel 22
2 Samuel 22:1
David spake -- The entire chapter is one of David's songs

of praise and gratitude to God for his loving providence.
R2031:1
A type of the Church in her deliverance. R153:6, R264:6,
R265:1, R287:6
2 Samuel 22:2
The LORD is my rock -- Upon which I safely build my

hopes. R2032:4
And my fortress -- In which I may safely hide. R2032:4
And my deliverer -- In every time of trouble. R2032:4
2 Samuel 22:3
And the horn -- Horns are symbols of power. T42
2 Samuel 22:6
Sorrows of hell -- Sheol, oblivion, the state of death.

E358
In the Revised Version, anglicized as "sheol," as in all poetic
passages. R828:5
A figure in which trouble is represented as hastening one to
the tomb. R2599:3
Compassed me -- Literally David; prophetically
The Christ. E358
2 Samuel 22:8
Then -- The deliverance of the Body of Christ will be just

before a great time of trouble and manifestation of divine
power and indignation against wickedness. E358
Shook -- A great time of trouble. E358
Of heaven -- The powers of spiritual control. A318
2 Samuel 22:17
He took me -- See comment on 2 Sam. 22:8 from E358.

Delivering his Bride from her fleshly nature into the
perfection of our new nature. R153:6, R265:1
2 Samuel 22:18
My strong enemy -- Death. R153:6, R265:1
2 Samuel 22:31
His way is perfect -- He could not be holy in all his works

if he were the author of sin and crime. R1351:4, R849:1
Therefore we cannot conclude that God made us sinners.
HG650:2
2 Samuel 22:41
The necks of mine enemies -- Enemies of the Lord which

David was commissioned to conquer--prophetic of Christ's
victories over the enemies of truth and righteousness.
R2032:1
2 Samuel 22:44
Head of the heathen -- Verses 44 to 46 are fully

applicable only to the wider dominion of Christ as earth's
future king. R2032:4
2 Samuel 22:50
Therefore I will give thanks -- "We love him because he

first loved us." (1 John 4:19) R2031:5
No one can be a true Christian and be unthankful. R2460:2
This principal of gratitude and praise is that which makes
human fellowship possible. R2031:6
2 Samuel 23
2 Samuel 23:3
Must be just -- This is the meaning of the Lord's careful

selection, instruction, discipline, judging and proving his
people whom he is now calling to a ruling position in the
Millennial Kingdom. R4198:6
But enforcement of justice is not the Lord's rule for his people
in the present time when they themselves are weak and
imperfect. "Judge no man before the time." (1 Cor. 4:5)
R4198:6
2 Samuel 23:5
Everlasting covenant -- The original grace, or Sarah,

covenant. R4321:2
2 Samuel 23:15
Well of Bethlehem -- Now (1892) on the principal street

of Bethlehem. R1401:5
2 Samuel 23:17
Would not drink it -- He considered it too costly to drink,

so he made it an offering to God. R2015:6
Few indeed among the kings of the earth would consider any
sacrifice of their fellow-men too costly to be bestowed on
them. R2015:6
2 Samuel 24
2 Samuel 24:1
He moved David -- Satan provoked David to number

Israel, contrary to the command of the Lord. R5106:4;
Q281:4
2 Samuel 24:2
The king said -- As the Lord's representative, he was

acting without instructions and due authority. Q832:2
2 Samuel 24:14
I am in a great strait -- Realizing his own weakness;

David, in humility, declined to make a choice. R5106:4;
Q281:4
2 Samuel 24:16
The angel stretched -- The word "angel" here does not

necessarily refer to a member of the angelic order, but
signifies "messenger" or agency which God used; in this case,
a pestilence. R2382:2
The LORD repented -- Before the Lord's punishment
reached David he had received the Lord's forgiveness.
R5106:4; Q281:4
2 Samuel 24:18
Rear an altar -- A remarkable spot. It was here that

Abraham offered Isaac and Solomon built the Temple. (2
Chron 3:1) R2510:6, R1395:6
2 Samuel 24:25
The LORD was intreated -- Only proper for Israel,

because of God's special covenant with that nation. R2029:2
Offered burnt offerings -- Recognizing God's
chastisement, he prayed for divine mercy. R2029:2
1 Kings
General
David had now accomplished nearly all of his earthly
mission. He found the dominion small; now it was much
extended. He found it in disorder and left it thoroughly
organized. He found religion at a low ebb and he succeeded
in greatly reviving and energizing religious devotion and zeal.
He found powerful enemies on every side but he subdued all
of them and led the nation to a condition of peace and
introduced them to a season of unparalleled prosperity. His
life had been an eventful and troubled one, not without its
grave mistakes, but it had accomplished great things. The
glory of Solomon's reign was but the harvest of David's labors
and sufferings. R2030:2
Israel's kings were anointed by divine commission and
authority as were no other kings and they were said to "sit
upon the throne of the kingdom of the Lord" (1 Chron. 28:5)
as no other kings before or since have held such dominion. It
was, therefore, quite in line with the arrangements of that time
that the kings of Israel and Judah should fortify and
strengthen themselves and defend the land which the
Almighty had specially given to their nation. R4786:2
The chronology differences between the books of Kings
and Chronicles are not to be considered errors of inspiration
but merely such slight discrepancies as we might expect to
find in any history and which God permitted for a purpose,
while he supplied the deficiency in the Old Testament
chronology by a fuller record on these obscure points in the
New Testament. R1419:6
1 Kings 1
1 Kings 1:1
David was old -- Having brought order out of confusion,

and having established peace and prosperity on a permanent
footing. R2030:3
Stricken in years -- 70 years of age. Absalom, his eldest
son, had died in rebellion. R5701:1
1 Kings 1:5
Adonijah -- Made heir-apparent to the throne by the death

of Absalom. R5701:1
As with Absalom, the notes of discord came from within his
own household. R2030:2, R4286:2
Exalted himself -- Adonijah succeeded in gaining the
friendship of Joab, the long-time military leader. R5701:1
I will be king -- This attempted usurpation led to the
immediate anointing and proclamation of Solomon. R2030:2
1 Kings 1:6
Not displeased him -- He was a spoiled child never under

the tutelage of the prophet Nathan. R4286:6
It is a mistake for parents to allow a child's early years to be
wasted through inattention of training. R4286:6
1 Kings 1:7
Joab -- A long-time head of David's army, probably retired

because of age and for disregarding King David's instructions
that Absalom's life be not taken. R5701:1
1 Kings 1:10
He called not -- Members of The Christ must not wonder

if they are excluded from the companionships and feastings of
the Absalom and Adonijah types. R4287:1
1 Kings 1:11
Nathan -- Solomon was the ward and pupil of Nathan.

R5701:5, R4286:5
Spake unto -- Adonijah's disloyalty was thus brought to
the notice of King David, resulting in Solomon's being
publicly crowned. R2045:3, R5701:2
Bath-sheba -- Solomon's mother was not a heathen, but an
Israelite, and therefore more in sympathy with divine
arrangements and laws. R5701:5
Solomon -- Meaning, "The peaceful." Partook of his
father David's religious disposition. We are handicapped or
blessed by the disposition and traits we inherit. R2045:3,
R5701:4
1 Kings 1:13
Assuredly Solomon -- Having been selected by Jehovah.

R2045:3, R2030:2, R5701:4
1 Kings 1:30
Reign after me -- In view of the fact that Solomon was the

Lord's choice. R2045:3
1 Kings 1:33
Ride upon mine own mule -- An act which would of itself

proclaim Solomon as David's successor. R4286:5, R5701:2
Gihon -- Near where Jesus later rode on the ass. R4286:5
In the Valley of Kidron. R1401:1
1 Kings 1:34
Nathan the prophet -- And Benaiah, another general.

R4286:4
1 Kings 1:38
Cherethites and the Pelethites -- Two companies of the

king's special body-guard. R4286:5
1 Kings 1:39
Anointed Solomon -- The first time. The second time is

recorded in 1 Chron. 29:22, 23. R2031:4
King Solomon -- For his father David's sake. Of his
posterity was to come the long-promised Messiah, King of the
antitypical Kingdom of God. R2045:3
Solomon came to the throne at about 19 or 20 years of age
and reigned jointly with his father David for some 6 months.
R2045:3, R4286:5
It required the two reigns of David and Solomon to represent
the great work of the Lord's Anointed: David's represented the
work of the Church in the flesh, while Solomon's represented
the work of the Church glorified. R1901:3
1 Kings 1:46
Sitteth on the throne -- Reigning jointly with David for

some 6 months. R4286:5
1 Kings 1:50
Adonijah feared -- Because of the custom amongst other

kingdoms that when a king was installed in office, others who
might become rivals were put to death. R4287:4
Probably judging Solomon by himself, and concluding that
his life would be in danger. R4287:4
On the horns -- As a place of safety. R4287:4
1 Kings 1:53
Go to thine house -- Indicating that no punishment would

be inflicted. R4287:4
1 Kings 2
1 Kings 2:4
If thy children -- Conditional; his royal line failed and was

abandoned from being the Messianic line. E131
Whatever is clearly promised on condition of obedience is
forfeited if that obedience is not rendered. R467:5*
Shall not fail thee -- Be cut off from thee, from the throne.
E131
Thus the Maccabees were unsuccessful in establishing a
kingdom, because not of the promised line of David. Q79:2
1 Kings 2:6
Down to the grave -- Sheol, oblivion, the state of death.

E358; R828:5, R2600:1, R2599:6
1 Kings 2:9
To the grave -- To sheol, oblivion. E358
1 Kings 2:10
David slept -- Death is a condition of rest, of quiet, of

peaceful unconsciousness. R5059:6, R4794:2, R5166:4
The body did not sleep, it was absolutely dead. That which
slept was that which God recognizes as the personality, the
soul. R5611:5
With his fathers -- The Bible declares that the Ancients,
good and bad, were gathered to their fathers and slept.
R5179:4, R2617:5
Was buried -- Purportedly in a cave with Solomon and
other kings, today (1892) on Zion Street in Jerusalem.
R1390:2
1 Kings 2:28
Horns of the altar -- Pointing to Christ as our refuge, and

to his abundant power and grace to all who should come to
him. R101:1*
1 Kings 3
1 Kings 3:3
Sacrificed -- Unto the Lord. R2045:6

In high places -- This was prohibited by Mosaic Law
(Deut. 12:13, 14), but was accepted of God until the Temple
was built. R2045:6
1 Kings 3:4
Sacrifice -- Each has a sacrifice to bring: his justified self,

his will, his time, his influence, his talents. R4292:1
1000 burnt offerings -- Burnt offerings only in the sense
that they were offered in connection with a religious
ceremony. Certain portions, particularly the fat, were burned
and the food portions became the basis of the feast. R3277:3,
R5714:2
1 Kings 3:5
Appeared -- While Solomon's mind was active in religious

matters. R3277:6
In a dream -- All dreams are not of the Lord, but he is able
to use dreams when he so chooses to convey lessons and
instructions. The only safe way is to interpret dreams in full
accord with the Scriptures. R3277:6, R3278:1, R5714:5
Ask what I shall give thee -- So God is asking all who
would become his children. He desires to do them good, but
wishes them to realize their needs and make requests
accordingly. R5714:6
1 Kings 3:6
Thou hast shewed -- Indicating that he realized that God's

favor was merely the continuation of the divine mercies
which had blessed David. R4290:6
1 Kings 3:7
Thou hast made thy servant -- This should give strength

to all the Lord's consecrated people who have come into
present grace and truth, not by their own wisdom but through
the wisdom and grace of God. R3278:2
A little child -- Teachable, not boastful or self confident.
R5714:6
Go out or come in -- How to conduct myself in public or
in private before the people. R4291:1
1 Kings 3:8
Thy servant -- Solomon recognized that the people were

God's, not his. R4291:1, R3278:2
Midst of thy people -- A lesson to those who speak of
God's people as "My people," "My flock," "My church."
R3278:2
A great people -- Estimated 6,000,000. R3278:3
1 Kings 3:9
An understanding heart -- The most necessary thing for

the welfare of the nation was righteous judgment. R3278:4
Its full realization will be in Solomon's antitype. R2053:5,
R1517:2
To judge -- To administer justice. Messiah is to
accomplish this in the world in the Millennial age. R5715:1,
R3278:5
1 Kings 3:12
According to thy words -- Insofar as the dream was

fulfilled in Solomon and his reign, it prefigured the glorious
and peaceful reign of David's greater son, Jesus. R2046:5
Neither after thee -- Since typical of Christ, it is
harmonious with Matt. 12:42, "A greater than Solomon is
here." R1517.2
1 Kings 3:13
Hast not asked -- This was just like our Heavenly Father.
R3278:5
Riches and honor -- Typifying the spiritual riches and
honors given to the true Church. R3278:5
1 Kings 3:14
As thy father David -- Showing that the Lord was not

expecting absolute perfection, but heart intentions. R2059:6
I will lengthen thy days -- Conditional. Solomon lived to
60 years; he would have lived to 80 years had he been more
obedient. R3278:6
1 Kings 4
1 Kings 4:6
Adoniram -- Secretary of the treasury, the one having

charge over the assessments, etc., and who presided over the
forced labor. R3385:4
1 Kings 4:24
Peace on all sides -- Whereas King David's reign was full

of wars, King Solomon's had none. PD44/53
1 Kings 4:29
Gave Solomon wisdom -- Not the heavenly wisdom, not

spiritual understanding. R2053:2
1 Kings 4:30
Solomon's wisdom excelled -- Prefigured the all-comprehensive

wisdom of Christ. R2053:1
Only an imperfect realization of the wise and understanding
heart suggested in his dream-prayer. R2053:2
Children of the east -- Implying that his wisdom was
along the lines of the sciences and philosophies popular with
them. R2053:5
1 Kings 4:31
Wiser than all men -- In the time of Solomon, the zenith

of their glory, the Jews were a people distinguished and
honored among nations. C244
1 Kings 4:32
Three thousand proverbs -- Not all deemed of the Lord

worthy of preservation in sacred Scripture. R2053:5
1 Kings 4:34
Of all people -- "Many people will say, Come and let us

go up to the house of the Lord." (Isa. 2:3) R2053:1
1 Kings 5
1 Kings 5:3
My father could not build -- The lesson is that the

complete divine arrangement is not to be established by Christ
in the flesh, represented by David, but by The Christ of glory,
represented by Solomon. PD45/55
Christendom, not heeding this counsel, has built up earthly
institutions contrary to the divine intention for this present
age. R4261:3
For the wars -- David typified the battling of Christ and
the Church while in the flesh. R4261:1
1 Kings 5:4
Hath given me rest -- To illustrate the Millennial

Kingdom of The Christ in glory. R4261:1
1 Kings 5:5
I purpose to build -- The "greater than Solomon" (Matt.

12:42) is to build the antitypical Temple. R172:2
1 Kings 5:11
Twenty measures -- 200,000 gallons. R3431:2

1 Kings 5:13
Raised a levy -- Drafted. R3282:3
1 Kings 5:17
Costly -- The Temple of God, built by Solomon, was

probably richer in its ornamentation and more costly than any
other temple. It represented so glorious a class and such rich
blessings of God to men that it was very appropriate that the
type be costly. R2054:1, R4296:5
Lay the foundation -- The resurrection of the prophets.
The apostles and the prophets are the foundation. (Eph. 2:20,
21) R180:6*
1 Kings 5:18
So they prepared -- The getting out of the stones and

timbers seems to be the work done during the Gospel age.
R169:6*
1 Kings 6
1 Kings 6:1
In the 480th year -- The Diaglott footnote on Acts 13:20

shows that this text has been corrupted by substituting the
Hebrew character daleth (4) for hay (5), which is very similar
in form. This would make 580 (instead of 480). R1980:3;
B53
Leaving 350 years for the period of the judges whereas the
time as given in the Judges in 19 periods makes a total of 450
years. Admitting the single mistake of 480 years for 580 in
the Kings will set it right. HG104:6
He began to build -- Solomon was not only
a prince of peace but a wise, rich king, who builded the
Temple of Jehovah. PD44/53
1 Kings 6:7
And the house -- Typical of the greater spiritual Temple,

the Church. F73
Was built of stone -- Type of the "living stones," each one
fitted and prepared for his place. F196, F73
Made ready -- typified preparation of the Church in the
present life and their construction as God's spiritual Temple
by resurrection power. PD45/55; R1237:4, R172:2
Before it was brought -- The trials and difficulties of the
present are the chiseling, and the quarry is the world.
CR360:1
The construction of the antitypical Temple is not to take place
until all the stones have been prepared. R4261:6
All the fitting and preparation is done in the present life.
F196
Neither hammer nor axe -- No need of trimming or
altering any of the perfected ones who will constitute the
glorious Temple of God. R2987:2
Nor any tool of iron heard -- Quietly and orderly, no
confusion. CR359:6
Showing the noiseless resurrection of the dead in Christ and
the change of the living. R4296:6
Babylon's false temple, in contrast, builds and rebuilds with
great noise-confusion. R1237:5
1 Kings 6:17
That is, the temple -- The Hebrew term for the Jewish
Temple is heykal, a royal residence; qualified by the term
kodesh, a sanctuary, to indicate its sacredness as the dwelling
place of Jehovah. R1981:1
1 Kings 6:18
Knops and open flowers -- Representing the Church as

both beautiful and fruitful. T116
All was cedar -- Representing everlasting life. T109
There was no stone -- Represents the true Church, "living
stones." (1 Pet. 2:5) F196
1 Kings 6:19
The ark -- Represents the eternal purpose of God in The

1 Kings 6:20
The oracle -- Its size indicates the size of the Most Holy of
the Tabernacle and the placement of the second veil.
R100:2*
1 Kings 6:21
So Solomon -- Type of Christ. (Matt. 12:42) R1517:2;

B255
Overlaid -- Wood merely used as a filler. Wood, hay and
stubble have no place in the true Temple. (1 Cor. 3:12).
R2054:5
Pure gold -- The faith and character of the true Church is
represented in the gold, silver and precious stones. R2054:5
1 Kings 6:23
Cherubims -- Not literal angels, but symbols of God's

attributes. R529:6*
Ten cubits high -- Probably nearly 21 feet high. R530:2*
1 Kings 6:25
Of one measure -- Illustrating the time equality of the

Jewish and Gospel dispensations. R39:2*
The two covenants were represented by the two cherubim
over the Mercy Seat. HG53:6
1 Kings 6:27
He set the cherubims -- Upon their own feet: independent,

yet in perfect harmony. R530:2*
1 Kings 6:38
Month Bul -- Month is translated from the Hebrew word

for "moon." R4127:3
Eighth month -- Month here translated from the Hebrew
word for "innovation." R4127:3
1 Kings 7
1 Kings 7:1
He finished -- After 24 years of reigning, at age 44.

R2059:2
1 Kings 8
1 Kings 8:1
Then Solomon -- The Great King, antitypical Solomon,

our Lord Jesus. R3283:1
Assembled -- The Lord's people are now gathering from
the four quarters of the spiritual heavens. R3283:1
Elders of Israel -- The Lord's very elect. R3283:1
The city of David -- Mount Zion was one division of the
city of Jerusalem, while the Temple was built in another
division, called Mount Moriah. R4297:1
1 Kings 8:2
The feast -- The Feast of Tabernacles. R3509:2*
1 Kings 8:4
Priests -- Little Flock. R172:4

Levites -- Great Company. R172:4
1 Kings 8:6
Brought in the ark -- The Temple was not complete until

the Ark was placed in position, typifying that every member
of the Body of Christ must be changed from the Tabernacle to
the Temple, or permanent, position in the first resurrection.
R3283:1
1 Kings 8:9
Nothing In the ark save -- Golden bowl of manna, a type

of immortality, and the budded rod of the blessings,
fruitfulness and privilege of service of the Levites, will end as
types in the present dispensation. R3283:2
Tables of stone -- Of the Law, showing how Christ would
meet in full all the requirements of God's perfect law and also
that legal authority would be vested in him as the Law-executor. T121
The Law will always be an integral part of the divine
covenant. R3283:2
1 Kings 8:10
The cloud -- Symbolizing the Lord's presence. R3283:2

The house -- Typifying the glorified Christ. R3283:5
1 Kings 8:11
The cloud -- An extreme brightness, symbol of the Lord's

presence. R3283:3
Glory of the LORD -- The fact that the glory of the Lord
filled the typical Temple before it was completed seems to
imply that at this present time there will be some
manifestation of God's favor toward his Church before the
work of construction is quite finished. R5714:4; CR360:5;
R4297:5
Causing the shekinah glory to shine upon the Mercy Seat,
thus indicating a transfer of divine presence from the
Tabernacle to the Temple. R2054:6
The fact that the Temple was built and then glorified proves
that all, dead and living, will be made spiritual bodies before
any are glorified. R169:6*
Filled -- Then the new dispensation begins. PD45/55
The house -- The Temple, permanent place for the
manifestation of God's presence. R2054:6
1 Kings 8:19
Out of thy loins -- Children are spoken of as being of, or

from their fathers; and borne by their mothers. E99; R776:5
1 Kings 8:27
Heaven of heavens -- The throne of God is referred to as

"the heaven of heavens." R619:6
1 Kings 8:29
Toward this house -- During the Millennium, the world

will approach God through the glorified Church. R5714:1,4
The dedication of the Temple teaches God's people it is
necessary to positively and formally dedicate themselves to
God and to his service before being recognized of him and
filled with his spirit. R5714:1
1 Kings 8:30
Forgive -- So, during the Millennium God will hear the

prayers thus properly presented and will forgive the sins of
the people. R5714:4
1 Kings 8:42
Of thy great name -- In all this Solomon very beautifully,

modestly and properly gives the credit for his wisdom and
greatness to God. R2067:3
1 Kings 8:54
On his knees -- Evidence of Solomon's earnestness.

Suggests to us the importance of not only having good
desires, but also of permitting those desires to occupy our
time, thoughts and attention fully. R2054:3
1 Kings 8:56
Not failed one word -- All who have the unction from the
Holy One can with patience wait and trust implicitly for
future good things. D616
All things will work in us for our welfare because we are his,
and for the glory of his Kingdom. R4262:4
All his good promise -- Let us not blame God for
the non-fulfillment of our expectations. R4261:6
1 Kings 8:57
Not leave us -- Shows great modesty as well as zeal, for he

included himself as well as the people. R2054:3
1 Kings 8:63
Dedicated -- God's people should positively and formally

dedicate themselves. R5714:1
About a month before the Temple was completely finished,
doubtless a typical lesson which we may some day more fully
understand. R5713:2
1 Kings 9
1 Kings 9:1
Finished the building -- He began the building in the

fourth year of his reign. Its construction occupied seven
years. R2059:3
The king's house -- Solomon's own palace took 13 years
to build. R2059:3
All Solomon's desire -- Reached the period where he was
"in all his glory," (Matt. 6:29) the critical point of danger.
R2059:3
1 Kings 9:2
Appeared ... second time -- Occurred 24 years after he

had become king, when he had reached 44 years of age.
R2059:2
As he had appeared -- As before at Gibeon, in a dream.
R2059:6
1 Kings 9:3
Shall be there perpetually -- Implying his approval of

Solomon's course up to this time. R2059:6
1 Kings 9:4
In integrity of heart -- Not absolute perfection, but heart

intentions. R2059:6
1 Kings 9:5
Promised to David -- Not merely to the immediate

descendants of Solomon and David, but his particular
reference is to Christ. R2059:6
1 Kings 9:6
Turn from following me -- Solomon chose the wrong

path. R2060:1
1 Kings 9:7
Cut off Israel -- The Lord's rejection for a time was the
result of their rejection of him, in part induced by Solomon's
choice. R2060:1
Byword -- The house which Solomon built unto the Lord
was later robbed, profaned, and did become a byword.
R2060:1
Among all people -- When noting the fulfillment of these
prophecies against Israel we must not forget the equally
strong testimonies of God that he will gather them again.
OV76:1
1 Kings 9:8
High -- Notable in the eyes of the world. R2060:1

Hiss -- It was robbed of its treasures and profaned.
R2060:1
1 Kings 9:21
Their children -- 150,000 laborers, probably

Canaanites. R3282:3
A tribute of bondservice -- Typical of the fact that
strangers and enemies of truth have the larger share of
preparing the antitypical temple by their hammering and
chiseling of the living stones. R3282:6
1 Kings 10
1 Kings 10:1
Queen of Sheba -- Presumed to have been a Negress. In

modern times the Emperor of Abyssinia claimed to be a
descendant of Solomon by this Queen. R3043:1
A more-than-ordinarily brilliant woman. R2067:2
She came -- From far-off southern Arabia, a journey of
1500 miles. R2067:2, R5722:1
Thus she put to shame the people of Israel who later
disregarded the superior wisdom of Jesus, the greater than
Solomon. PD44/53
At about the middle, or 20th year, of Solomon's reign, when
he was in all his glory. R5722:1, R2067:2
Hard questions -- Probably relating to the sciences, arts,
wise government, and respecting God and the future life.
R2067:2, R3284:5, R5722:4
1 Kings 10:2
She came -- A journey of 1500 miles, to Jerusalem and

back, consuming five months. R5722:1, R3284:2
Spices -- From India. R2067:5
1 Kings 10:5
His ascent -- The corridor, or grand stairway, which led

from his house to the Temple was a marvel of architecture.
R3284:6, R5722:1
Spirit in her -- It took her breath away. R3284:6
1 Kings 10:7
I believed not -- Reports of Solomon's greatness. R3284:2

Mine eyes have seen it -- The appreciation of values
depends much upon the eye. So the eyes of our
understanding must be opened truly to appreciate spiritual
things. PD44/53
Half was not told -- Applies (though not as an antitype) to
the Gospel Church. Once afar off, they come and confess
that the half was never told them of the riches of divine grace
in our Lord. R2068:4
"Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither hath it entered into
the heart of man, the things which God hath in reservation for
them that love him." (1 Cor. 2:9) R3285:2
1 Kings 10:10
120 talents of gold -- Estimated at $3,000,000. R2067:5
1 Kings 10:13
All her desire -- Richly rewarded by having her every

inquiry answered and by seeing the Temple built to the glory
of God. R2067:5
Of his royal bounty -- It was a custom for kings and
princes to give presents according to their wealth, and
Solomon was no doubt more wealthy than the queen.
R2067:6
1 Kings 10:14
The weight of gold -- King Solomon's annuity is supposed

to have been more than ten million dollars. R4722:3
1 Kings 10:23
Solomon exceeded -- In glory, attracting the

wonder and admiration of the world. C244
Illustrates the tendencies of wisdom and riches to lead
imperfect men away from God, the source of wisdom and
riches. R4297:3
Solomon typified the Church glorified. PD44/53
1 Kings 10:27
Made silver ... as stones -- The glitter of success held the

nation loyal to him, notwithstanding the fact that it was
achieved by oppressive measures. R2324:1
1 Kings 11
1 Kings 11:1
Strange women -- Mismarriage was a worldly-wise step

with a view to a closer relationship with surrounding nations
and royal families, but an unwise one, for God desired his
elect people to be separate from all families of the earth.
R2324:1
1 Kings 11:3
700 wives -- Some of these "queens" were ladies of rank

and refinement from the various royal families of surrounding
nations, one being Pharaoh's daughter. R2068:3
1 Kings 11:4
Solomon was old -- Prematurely old, at about 50 years.

R2068:3
1 Kings 11:6
Went not fully after -- But we are not to suppose that he

ceased to believe in the only true God. R2068:3, R4297:6
1 Kings 11:7
Solomon build an high place -- A notable house in the

eyes of the world. R2060:1
To please his various wives. R2068:3
In a spirit of "broad-mindedness" or "public policy," which
led to laxity respecting the worship of the true God. This
finds its counterpart today. R2359:3,5
In the hill -- Now called the Mount of Offence, opposite
Siloam. R1400:6
Molech -- The Valley of Hinnom (Greek, Gehenna) had
erected in it a hollow brass figure of the god Moloch, a
torment deity, which was heated intensely and then into its
outstretched arms were occasionally placed children offered
in sacrifice. R3069:1
Today we see in nominal Christendom a Moloch on a much
larger scale, a worse misrepresentation of a loving God, in the
doctrine of purgatory and eternal torment. R2360:1, R3464:6
1 Kings 11:8
Likewise did he -- When one system of idolatry had been

introduced, the other foreign wives claimed similar rights, etc.
R2068:3
He sought to be more broad and liberal than the Almighty in
the recognition of foreign religions forbidden to Israel.
R2324:1
1 Kings 11:9
Angry -- A righteous indignation against sin. R2068:5

The Lord rebuked Solomon for his course, doubtless through
the prophet Ahijah. (verses 29-37) R4297:6
1 Kings 11:11
Rend the kingdom -- Would be rent or torn with violence.

R4297:6
Complete overturning. Messiah could not be expected
through the line of Solomon. E133
The penalty for Solomon's sin. R2068:5
1 Kings 11:12
Thy son -- Rehoboam. R2068:5
1 Kings 11:13
Not rend away all -- Fulfilled through Jeroboam.

R2069:1, R4297:6
Thus ten of twelve parts were rent away; two retained for
David's and Jerusalem's sake. R467:6*
Will give one tribe -- Judah's consort Benjamin (after it
was almost destroyed) was absorbed into the tribe of Judah.
R2069:4; E132
1 Kings 11:26
He lifted up his hand -- Contrary to the Lord's plan for the

division, which was after Solomon's death. R2069:1
1 Kings 11:28
Industrious -- Having a natural ability as a manager of

men. R2324:4
1 Kings 11:31
Take thee ten pieces -- Thus anointing him to be king over

the ten tribes. R2324:4
I will rend the kingdom -- With one favorable effect-that
the two tribes could learn from the bad example of the ten and
be more faithful. Also illustrated in the divisions within the
nominal Gospel church. R2324:6
Will give ten tribes to thee -- The division of the kingdom
was of the Lord's foreknowledge and arrangement, for the
Lord saw that it would work favorably for the development of
his purpose. R2324:5
1 Kings 11:36
Which I have chosen -- As the religious and political

center of the typical kingdom. R1296:6*
1 Kings 11:38
Walk in my ways -- Solomon lost the kingdom because of

leading the people toward idolatry. Jeroboam should have
had this in mind and sought to banish idolatry. R4723:6
1 Kings 11:42
Was forty years -- Possibly typifying the harvest of the

Millennial age. R4018:2*
1 Kings 11:43
And Solomon slept -- Death is a condition of rest, of quiet,

of peaceful unconsciousness. R5059:6
The condition of all the dead up to the time when the
resurrection work begins. R4794:2
Rehoboam his son -- His mother was Naamah, an
Ammonitess and idolater, for whom Solomon built a temple
to Moloch. R2324:5
1 Kings 12
1 Kings 12:1
Rehoboam -- Solomon's son by a heathen mother; had

inherited personal beauty from both parents. R4722:3
To make him king -- Rehoboam was about 21 when he
came to the throne of a great kingdom; and he quickly
dissipated a vast fortune. R4722:3
1 Kings 12:2
Jeroboam dwelt in Egypt -- Where he had fled when

Solomon suppressed his incipient rebellion. R4723:3
1 Kings 12:3
Called him -- From exile in Egypt, to become

leader and spokesman of the ten tribes. R4722:6
Spake unto Rehoboam -- A council of all the tribes except
the one to which the royal family belonged. R3384:3
They were not satisfied and would not acknowledge him as
king unless he gave them what might be termed a bill of
rights. R4722:6
Saying -- They inquired what he would promise in the way
of a reform government. R4722:6
1 Kings 12:4
Make our yoke grievous -- By providing magnificent

palaces for himself and his heathen wives, gardens, raiment,
chariots and soldiers. R2046:5
The capital city had been favored out of all proportion to the
remainder of the country, and the ten tribes had shared in a
labor conscription at small compensation. R5723:1
They were ready to break out in open rebellion. R3384:3
Even today many of the best governed and most prosperous
are discontented. R3384:3
Make . . . lighter -- The Jews as a people have always
zealously guarded their liberties. R2068:6
They wished assurance that there would be an abatement of
demands of levies of men for public labor, of taxes, liberties,
etc. R3384:3
A demand similar to that of the British public in connection
with the Magna Charta. R5723:1
1 Kings 12:5
Depart ... three days -- He and all realized that a crisis

had come, too weighty to be decided hastily. R4722:6
1 Kings 12:6
King Rehoboam -- Recognized as king by the tribes of

Judah and Benjamin. R4722:6
Consulted -- In every enterprise of life we should seek
counsel. R4723:4
With the old men -- His father's counselors; to
know their advice. R4722:6
1 Kings 12:7
They spake unto him -- Their recommendations were

good, exactly what the ten tribes desired. R4723:1
If thou wilt be a servant -- Proper advice--a ruler should
be the servant of his people. R5723:5
1 Kings 12:8
He forsook the counsel -- The golden rule, laid down by

the great head of Christianity, is rejected as impracticable.
R5723:5
Consulted with the young -- His friends, whom he was
disposed to bring into power with himself. R4723:1
His course should have been to seek counsel from the Lord.
R2324:4
1 Kings 12:10
Spake unto him -- To intimidate, rule with a heavy hand.

R4723:1
Shall be thicker -- Unwise, boastful, vainglorious
language, which no doubt was the abundant overflow of a
heart in similar condition. R2324:4
1 Kings 12:11
With scorpions -- Whips with metal lumps on the strands.

R3384:6, R5723:2
1 Kings 12:13
Answered ... roughly -- The young king had not been

rightly taught the principles of justice in human affairs. Pride
and ambition are dangerous counselors. R4723:1
Wealth, power, influence, gained through oppression and
injustice, are unworthy of noble minds. R4723:4
Forsook the old men's -- Made an unwise decision and
lost the greater part of the kingdom. R4723:1
1 Kings 12:14
I will chastise you -- The answer was a foolish one and

precipitated the separation of the ten tribes from the two.
R3384:6, R5723:2
Scorpions -- Whip with metal pricks at the ends of the
thongs. Drafted men were treated as the veriest slaves, under
taskmasters with whips. R4723:1, R2324:3
1 Kings 12:16
All Israel -- Ten tribes, and the adjacent kingdom which

had been under Solomon's sovereignty. R4723:1
Israel departed -- The ten tribes revolted and maintained
the title, "kingdom of Israel." The two tribes were called the
"kingdom of Judah" for over 500 years. R3385:4, R5723:2
393 years before the overthrow of Zedekiah, corresponding to
the division of Christendom into Papacy and Protestantism in
the year 1521, when Luther was excommunicated. R3574:1*
Unto their tents -- Splits in the nominal mass, and the
resulting benefits, do not justify splits among those faithful to
the Lord. R2325:4
1 Kings 12:17
Children of Israel -- Refers to the Israelites from all those

tribes which dwelt in the cities of Judah who were not moved
to join with their tribes in the rebellion. C292; R3385:4,
R1341:1
Judah -- In which God, through the prophet, had declared
that his blessings should come. R3385:4
Reigned over them -- Thus loyal to the Lord whose
worship centered in Jerusalem, and to the tribes of Judah,
from which the promised king was to come; typifying the
siftings of spiritual Israel. R3385:2
Spiritual Israelites should notice that the Lord overruled in all
the affairs of the typical people for the welfare of the
true-hearted and should expect the same. R3385:4
1 Kings 12:18
Adoram -- Secretary of the treasury, the one having charge

over the assessments, etc., same as in 1 Kings 4:6. R3385:4
Stoned him -- After the manner of their time. R3385:5
1 Kings 12:19
Israel -- The ten tribes maintained the title "kingdom of

Israel" for over 500 years, until the return from captivity.
R5723:2, R3384:6
1 Kings 12:20
Made him king -- The ten tribes chose Jeroboam for their
king and supported a separate government. R3385:5
1 Kings 12:21
To fight -- King Rehoboam, loath to lose so large a part of

his empire, at first thought to compel the union by putting
down the rebellion. R3385:5
1 Kings 12:24
Ye shall not -- It was part of the divine plan that the

nations should be divided. R3385:5
1 Kings 12:25
Jeroboam -- Of the tribe of Ephraim, a man of large

natural ability but inclined to be worldly-wise and to neglect
his God and his religion. R4723:2
Possessed more of confidence in himself than of trust in God,
more of impatience to be king than of loyalty. R4723:3,
R3385:3
1 Kings 12:26
Said in his heart -- Decided to take the selfish course.

R4723:5
1 Kings 12:27
If this people go -- To worship yearly, they would again

draw back to the kings of the line of David. R5732:2
At Jerusalem -- By divine order, the center of religious
service. R3385:6
1 Kings 12:28
Two calves -- Probably because the people, while in

Egypt, were accustomed to the worship of the sacred bull,
Apis, of Egyptian mythology. R2325:5
One of the first arrangements was to break the religious tie.
R3386:1, R2325:3
For policy's sake, he led the nation directly into idolatry.
R4723:6
Of gold -- Probably made of wood, overlaid with gold.
R3386:2
1 Kings 12:29
The one in Beth-el -- Where Jacob had his dream, and

which was therefore somewhat sacred to the minds of the
children of Israel. R3386:1
In the southern part of the territory. R5732:3
Dan -- In the northern part of the territory. R5732:3
1 Kings 12:30
Became a sin -- Because it was contrary to the divine

arrangement and led them gradually into idolatry. R3386:2,
R5732:3
1 Kings 12:31
The sons of Levi -- Probably, though not so stated, the

Levites refused in the establishment of these unauthorized
religious services. Consequently many of them removed to
the kingdom of Judah. R3386:3
1 Kings 12:33
And burnt incense -- Similarly the emperors of Rome took

to themselves the priestly office that they might the more
effectually bind the people to them. R3386:4
1 Kings 13
1 Kings 13:1
Stood by the altar -- Jeroboam seems to have appointed

himself the chief priest of the new religious institution, for he
offered the incense. R2325:6
1 Kings 13:2
Men's bones ... burnt -- Fulfilled in 2 Kings 23:16 and 2

Chron. 34:5. R3607:3
1 Kings 14
1 Kings 14:25
Shishak -- There has been discovered at Karnak, Egypt, a

splendid structure erected by him. R3467:6*
1 Kings 14:26
He took away -- Commemorated by a sculpture at Karnak

by Shishak, which includes a Jewish king among the 38
whom he had subdued. R3467:6*
1 Kings 16
1 Kings 16:23
Omri -- A great general, he succeeded Jeroboam on the

throne. His dynasty was a successful one according to
worldly standards but a failure from the divine standpoint.
R4729:2
1 Kings 16:24
City which he built -- Omri strengthened his hold upon

the people by the building of a new capital city, Samaria.
R3399:2
1 Kings 16:25
Omri wrought evil -- Outranked Jeroboam as a misleader.

Worldly wisdom suggested a still further departure from God.
R4729:3
1 Kings 16:26
In his sin -- Introducing idolatry and licentious practices.

R3399:2
Vanities -- Vain religious ceremonies, provocative of
greater evils. R3399:2
1 Kings 16:28
Omri slept -- We are not to draw the inference that, as a

wicked man, he went to eternal torment and that the nature of
the torment is sleep. R4729:3, R3399:2
With his fathers -- The Grecian theory, that when people
die they become more alive than ever, had not yet been
introduced. R3399:2
1 Kings 16:29
And Ahab -- Typical of the Roman empire. B256;

R234:3
Typified the civil government, symbolically called the
"dragon" in Revelation. OV268:3; Dii; R4730:4
Ahab's name signified "like his father." Surely he was. His
was a reign still more successful in unrighteousness. R4729:3
1 Kings 16:30
Did evil -- For 22 years he devoted himself to the further

undermining of true religion and to the introduction of the
worst forms of licentious, heathen idolatry. R4730:4,
R4729:5
1 Kings 16:31
To wife Jezebel -- Typical of the apostate Church of

Rome. R5629:1; B256
The improper marriage of Ahab and Jezebel, contrary to the
Jewish Law, typified the marriage, or union, of church and
state. R4730:4, R234:3
Typified a religious system. She was a desperate character,
used to symbolize the great mystery of iniquity in the book of
Revelation. (Rev. 2:20) R3399:4
In marrying her Ahab secured an able accomplice in evil.
R3399:4
Her name signifies "chaste"; yet she used her great influence
for the furtherance of unchastity in connection with the
worship of Baal and Ashtoreth. R4729:5
The effect of the prosperity of Ahab and Jezebel was two-fold:
degrading one class, while separating from itself another
class--the true worshippers of God. So it is today. R4730:1
Ethbaal -- A priest of Baal who murdered his father, the
king of Tyre, and then succeeded him. R3399:4
Served Baal -- Or Bel; type of the god of Babylon, the
Pope. D40
1 Kings 16:32
An altar for Baal -- The ordained worship in the Temple

was neglected and image worship established. Thus was the
true Temple and priesthood counterfeited. Similarly, we have
in nominal spiritual Israel a great counterfeit system.
PD46/56; R3399:5
1 Kings 17
1 Kings 17:1
And Elijah -- Type of the true Church in the flesh--The

Christ, Head and Body. B256; R5629:1, R5569:5,
R5741:3, R5857:4; Q259:1
Said unto Ahab -- Worldly system, to which this
professed nominal church of Christ is united. R5741:6
Type of the Roman empire. R3408:3; B256
He reproved King Ahab, Jezebel and the ten tribes. R4730:3
The king doubtless considered this a vain boast. R4731:2
God of Israel liveth -- Whom you seem to think is dead.
R2326:1
Before whom I stand -- Whose representative I am.
R3400:1
True prophets of God are not boastful; they speak merely as
divine mouthpieces. R5741:2
Not be dew nor rain -- A declaration of a divine judgment.
R2326:1
Intended to be corrective. R5741:2
A drouth which was a retribution of punishment upon Israel.
R4730:6
The 3 « year drouth and resulting famine of 1260 days were
prophetic of the 1260 years from 539 AD to 1799 AD, when
there was a famine in the world for the hearing of the word of
the Lord (Amos 8:11, 12) under Papal domination. R5742:1,
R5741:6, R5751:5, R234:6
The word for rain is that which refers to the principal rain,
which comes in the fall of the year. R3400:2
1 Kings 17:3
And hide thyself -- Keep his whereabouts unknown to the

king. R3400:2
Representing the flight of the true Church into a condition of
isolation during the three and one-half symbolic "times" of
Papal supremacy. B256
Brook Cherith -- On a mountainside, on the road leading
from Jerusalem down to the Dead Sea, a lonely spot.
R5741:2
1 Kings 17:4
Ravens to feed thee -- Our Heavenly Father was quite able

to use the ravens in supplying the needs of his servant, and we
are told, "He careth for you" (1 Pet. 5:7); "My God shall
supply all your need." (Phil. 4:19) R3400:3, 4
1 Kings 17:5
Dwelt by the brook -- For about two years. R2326:2
1 Kings 17:6
Ravens -- Exhibit not only extraordinary intelligence, but

sometimes also sympathy. R2326:2
The food for Elijah was probably stolen from the bazaars of
Jerusalem or Jericho. R2326:3
Bread and flesh -- Typifying the Lord's care of the true
Church during the time she was hiding from Papacy. B256
1 Kings 17:7
No rain in the land -- Typifying the lack of truth the living

water, during the 3 « symbolic "times" of papal persecution.
B256
1 Kings 17:9
Zarephath -- Outside the kingdom of Israel. R3400:5

A widow woman -- A godly Gentile who had respect to
Jehovah. R3400:5, R2326:4
1 Kings 17:10
A little water -- The gift of water to the thirsty is regarded

as a sacred duty. R2326:4
The streams of that vicinity, from the mountains of Lebanon,
had evidently not completely dried up. R3400:5
1 Kings 17:12
An handful of meal -- Even so, small amounts of

consecrated funds can greatly spread the gospel. R2549:5
Eat It, and die -- What she presumed would be her last
meal. Your meal and oil may run low, but God knoweth it
and will provide with spiritual blessings accompanying, if you
will trust him. R2326:5, R2021:4
1 Kings 17:13
Fear not -- This was a severe test to the woman's faith and
generosity. R4731:4
A little cake first -- If the woman had the faith necessary
to obey she would be esteemed worthy of the Lord's
assistance through the prophet. The Lord tests our faith, too.
R2326:5, R3400:6
1 Kings 17:14
Barrel of meal -- Symbol of the bread of truth, of which

our supply is continued from day to day. R2326:6
Neither shall ... oil fail -- You will increase your own
store of spiritual food as you give it to others. CR302:3
Representing the holy Spirit, which helps to make the truth
nourishing and profitable to us. R2326:6
1 Kings 17:15
She went and did -- She had faith enough to share her
little remnant with him, resulting in a miracle. R5741:3
A lesson that, even in our extremities, we should exercise
sympathy toward others. R4731:5
Is thy cruse of comfort failing? Rise and share it with another.
R2326:6*
Did eat many days -- The Lord's people have great need to
cultivate a large generosity, not only of thought, but of deed.
R2326:4, R3400:6
1 Kings 17:22
And the soul -- Nephesh, being, life, existence. R366:6

And he revived -- Awakening, not resurrection, of the
dead. R2618:2, R360:2; F704
Thus foreshadowing the Times of Restitution. (Isa. 25:6-9)
R4758:5, R62:1*; HG336:1
1 Kings 18
1 Kings 18:1
Elijah -- Type of the true Church in the flesh--The Christ,

Head and Body. B256; PD46/56
Third year -- Either the third of Elijah's sojourn at
Zarephath, or after his original announcement to Ahab.
R4740:1
The entire period of the drouth was 3 « years. (Luke 4:25;
Jas. 5:17) R4740:2
Shew thyself -- Prefigured the coming out of the true
Church of God from her wilderness hiding after the year 1799
AD. R5857:4
Unto Ahab -- Type of the Roman empire. B256
Representing the governments of earth. PD46/56
I will send rain -- Showing return of divine favor. A
sufficiency of punishment had come upon Israel for their
iniquities. R4740:2, 6
1 Kings 18:2
A sore famine -- Typifying the spiritual famine during the

Dark Ages. B256; R5741:6
For 3 « years, typical of the "time, times, and a half,"--1260
years, of the famine "not of bread, nor of water, but of
hearing the word of the Lord." (Amos 8:11) R5993:3
Typical of the period in which the true saints of God were
hidden from the eyes of the world in a wilderness condition.
R4741:2
1 Kings 18:3
Governor -- Royal superintendent, or prime minister.

R4740:2
Now Obadiah -- Represents partially consecrated ones.
R3401:5
Feared the LORD -- But must have failed to let his light
shine properly, else he would not have been an acceptable
servant in the house of Ahab. R3401:3
He was a true worshipper of the Lord, but timid. R3401:3
Such as are ashamed of the Lord will lose the great prize.
R3401:5
1 Kings 18:4
When Jezebel -- Typical of the apostate church of Rome.

B256
Symbolizes the great mystery of iniquity. R3399:4; PD46/56
Cut off the prophets -- The first religious persecution on
record. R2325:6
Hid them -- Evidently at the risk of his all. R4740:2
Fifty in a cave -- The experiences of God's prophets, for
the most part, were far from enviable. A54
Fed them -- Josephus connects Obadiah's widow with the
woman of 2 Kings 4:1-7 and her debt with the funds needed
to feed the prophets. R3430:6
1 Kings 18:5
Horses and mules -- Apparently he was more solicitous

for his beasts than for the poor of the people. R3401:2
1 Kings 18:6
Ahab went -- Probably with a good retinue of servants.

R3401:2
1 Kings 18:12
He shall slay me -- He surmised that Elijah would in some

manner disappear during his absence and that, in
consequence, the king's anger would be against his servant.
R3401:5, R4740:2
1 Kings 18:13
Slew the prophets -- See comments on 1 Kings 18:4.

LORD'S prophets -- The worthy servants of Mark 12:3-5.
R1796:1
1 Kings 18:16
Ahab went to meet Elijah -- Prophetic of the great contest

between Catholicism and Protestantism in the Reformation
period. R5751:5
1 Kings 18:17
Ahab -- Type of worldly governments claiming to be

Christ's kingdom. R5751:2, R389:2*
Elijah -- Type of the true Church of Christ in the flesh,
this side the veil. R5751:3
Although the true Church is indeed represented symbolically
by a woman, it is also represented sometimes by a man--when
the picture includes the Lord Jesus Christ, the Head of the
Church. R5751:3
Art thou he -- Implying that all the trouble was properly
chargeable to Elijah. R3401:6
This is the worldly custom. R4740:3
That troubleth Israel -- The valiant for the truth have
always been considered enemies by the nominal mass.
R577:5, R234:6
We would trouble Israel by showing the Lord's people their
transgressions. R234:6
1 Kings 18:18
Baalim -- Bel, type of the God of Babylon: the Pope.

D40
1 Kings 18:19
Prophets of Baal -- So the priests and the religious

representatives of a great church system have been the
obedient servants of the great false institutions, pictured by
Ahab and Jezebel. R5751:3
Jezebel -- A false Christian church system married to
earthly governments. R5751:2, R389:2*
1 Kings 18:20
Mount Carmel -- About seventeen miles from the palace

at Jezreel, an ideal place for such a spectacle. R3406:1
1 Kings 18:21
Elijah -- Here representing Jehovah. R3402:1, R4740:3

How long halt ye -- "Choose ye this day whom ye will
serve." (Josh. 24:15) R2950:4, 6
"Today, if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts."
(Heb 3:15) R2950:6
Coming to a positive decision is a great blessing, and a great
help in the formation of character. R2950:4
Two opinions -- "Ye cannot serve God and Mammon."
(Matt. 6:24) R2950:3
A contrast to the present dominant religious sentiment of
compromise. D190
1 Kings 18:24
Your gods -- Infidelity in our day is calling upon many to

worship the god of nature; and, through Higher Criticism and
Evolution theories, the priests of error are misleading many.
R3407:5
That answereth by fire -- Elijah challenged the priests of
Baal to a public test as to which god could answer prayer.
PD46/56
1 Kings 18:26
Called on ... Baal -- Noted for being preeminently the sun

god, the god of nature, fertility, etc. R3406:2
To accept the offering and vindicate his cause. PD46/56
If Baal were powerful enough to answer their prayers, then
the people might understand that it was because Baal was
offended with them that they had experienced the drouth.
R2332:5
1 Kings 18:28
They cried aloud -- Yelling and cutting themselves,

claiming they had committed sins, chastising themselves, that
Baal be propitiated and answer them. R3406:3
1 Kings 18:31
The sons of Jacob -- Typifying the twelve apostles. B246
1 Kings 18:33
Barrels -- Earthen jars. R3406:3

Water -- From a never-failing spring which is to be found
on the slope of Mt. Carmel. R3406:3
Pour it on -- No one could say that there was a secret
smouldering of fire beneath. R4740:5; PD46/56
1 Kings 18:36
Came near, and said -- This prayer is beautiful in its

simplicity, manifesting no boastful spirit. R3406:4
1 Kings 18:37
Hear me, O LORD -- Elijah prayed to God to vindicate

his cause. PD46/56
Turned their heart -- Recalling them again by their
experiences, and by these signs, to be thy people. R2332:6
1 Kings 18:38
Fire of the LORD fell -- The fire descended and

consumed the sacrifice, licking up even the water in the
trench. PD46/56
1 Kings 18:39
All the people -- Representing the world. R5629:1

Fell on their faces -- A lesson for us is that the masses of
Christendom are deceived today, as were the masses of Israel.
By and by, when God shall open their eyes, every knee shall
bow. R4740:5
The LORD -- Jehovah, He is God. PD46/56
1 Kings 18:40
Prophets of Baal -- Public teachers of idolatry. A55

And slew them there -- Representing the punishments
visited upon the Papacy at the end of the three and one-half
symbolic "times" (1260 literal years). B256
It is not a divine command to us today to put all false teachers
to death. R4740:5
It is for us to slay and utterly expose the errors and follies
which are deceiving the people. R3407:5, R4211:3*
Foreshadowing the Second Death of all who work iniquity
after full opportunity. R4740:6
1 Kings 18:41
There is a sound -- Might be understood better, "I hear

from the Lord the message of an abundance of rain coming."
R3407:1
Abundance of rain -- Typifying the millions of Bibles
published and issued shortly after the end of 1799. B256
Showing a return of divine favor. R4740:6
Nearly all of our great Bible Societies were organized within
fifteen years after 1799. R5752:5, R4211:3*
A spiritual drouth ended in 1798. R5751:3
From 325 AD, when the Nicene creed was promulgated, there
was practically no Bible study for 12 centuries until 1526,
when the art of printing had become common and Tyndale
had published his manuscript. It was 1799 before the Bible
came into great prominence. R5752:1-5
1 Kings 18:42
Down upon the earth -- Elijah did not pray for rain until
he understood that it was the Lord's due time for it to come.
We are to pray for and confidently expect those things and
only those things which the Lord has promised to give us.
R3407:2-4
1 Kings 18:45
Great rain -- Representing the wide circulation of the

Bible since 1799. R5857:4
1 Kings 18:46
Was on Elijah -- Enduing him with supernatural power.

R3407:4
Ran before Ahab -- An act of courtesy, showing that he
recognized Ahab as the king of the nation. R3407:4
1 Kings 19
1 Kings 19:1
And Ahab -- Type of the Roman empire. B256; R5629:1,

R4741:1, R3408:2
Told Jezebel -- Type of the apostate church of Rome and
of the so-called Protestant sects. B256; R5629:1, R3408:3
Herodias was an advanced type of her. R3408:2
All that Elijah -- Representing the true Church in the
flesh. B256; R5629:1, R5857:4, R4741:1
John the Baptist was a type, corresponding to Elijah.
R3408:2
Had done -- Jezebel viewed the matter, not as a combat
between the Almighty and Baal, but as between her prophets
and Elijah. R4741:1
1 Kings 19:2
Jezebel -- Representing the principles of Papacy in

Protestantism. B256
Represents a form of godliness, great and boastful, and
supported by earthly power. R5752:6
Sent a messenger -- So the gospel Church has been
persecuted and compelled to flee by a woman who sat as "a
queen" (Rev. 18:7) and is called "Jezebel." (Rev. 2:20)
HG69:4
The great social and religious upheaval of a century did not
alter the attitude of the church nominal and the world toward
the true Church. The Reformation was partial only. R5752:6
Of one of them -- Declaring that he would be as dead as
the priests of Baal within 24 hours. R3408:1
The queen did not persecute him, but threatened him.
R5629:1
1 Kings 19:3
Went for his life -- The message was a boast and threat
designed to intimidate him and to cause him to flee, which it
did. R3408:1
Antitypically, this implies a measure of fear and cowardice on
the part of God's saintly people, and their becoming obscure
for a time. R4741:4
The reformers of the 16th century fled the threats of the
antitypical Jezebel, being caused to desert many prominent
principles of righteousness for fear of the consequences.
R2341:1
The complete separation of a class from the power of Jezebel
in the interests of the new life, 1829 to 1846. R4211:3*
1 Kings 19:4
Into the wilderness -- Not for a specified time, however.

R5629:1
In fulfillment, Protestant sects compel the saints again to flee
into the wilderness condition. B256
O LORD -- Signifying his discouragement. R5629:4
Take away my life -- Why thus flee from death, and yet
pray the Lord for death? An illustration of how some of
strong faith amongst the Lord's people at times become
discouraged, panic-stricken, fearful. R3408:5
1 Kings 19:5
Arise and eat -- God realized, better than did Elijah, the
physical exhaustion experienced in the great work he had
done. R2333:3
The "Miller Movement," with special food: the ransom, the
return of the Lord, and an understanding of prophecy.
R4211:3,6*
1 Kings 19:6
There was a cake -- A loaf of bread, somewhat like a

pancake; symbol of the Church's spiritual food, the
unleavened bread of life, Christ. R2333:5
The special message that is now feeding the people of God.
R5629:4
A cruse of water -- Symbol of truth, the water of life.
R2333:5
1 Kings 19:7
Angel of the LORD -- The Lord thus gave him a special

message of comfort and food which lasted forty days, until he
came to the mount of God--Horeb. R5752:3
The messenger whom the Lord has been using since 1874.
R4211:6*
The second time -- Second awakening, 1874 to 1914.
R4211:6*
Arise and eat -- However earnest and zealous the Lord's
people may be, they need rest and food. R3408:6
Represents the special blessings and refreshments of the truth
in the experiences of the Church. R3408:6
The journey -- The hope of our calling, to be joint-heirs
with our Lord. R4211:6*
Too great for thee -- Unless strengthened by the
special food provided. R4211:6*
1 Kings 19:8
That meat -- Present truth. R4212:1*

Forty days -- 1874 to 1914. R4212:1*
Unto Horeb -- Mt. Sinai, a type of the Kingdom of God.
R3408:2, 6
Represents the Messianic Kingdom. R5629:4, R5752:6,
R4212:1*
Elijah's reaching Mt. Horeb typifies the Church at the
incipient establishment of the Kingdom in 1878. R3408:6
Coming of Elijah to it shows that the Church will be in and
under the Kingdom administration while still in the flesh,
although the last members will not fully participate in the
Kingdom honors and blessings. R5752:6
1 Kings 19:9
He came thither -- Chronologically Messiah's Kingdom

began its operation in the world in 1878 while the last
members of the Church are still in the flesh. R5753:1
Unto a cave -- The cave of Moses. R3414:1
Lodged there -- No special aim or purpose before his
mind. R2333:5
What doest thou -- It may be asked, What are we doing
for the Lord and for his cause? R2334:1
Here -- Not in a place to do anything. R2334:1
1 Kings 19:10
I only, am left -- As Elijah was discouraged, so it has been

with the Church. There was much discouragement felt until
the Lord began to make clear the divine plan. R5753:5,
R3414:2
They seek my life -- The experiences of God's prophets,
for the most part, were far from enviable. A54
1 Kings 19:11
Stand upon the mount -- The final overthrow of present

institutions will not take place until the Elijah class has
reached the mount of God--actually changed. R4212:4*
Before the LORD -- The Lord gave him illustrations of
different ways of accomplishing results. We need, and are
getting, such a lesson. R3414:2,3
To us he makes clear the divine plan by which Messiah's
Kingdom will be inaugurated. R5753:5, R2333:5
And strong wind -- Not the Lord's manifestation of
himself, but merely an illustration of power. R4741:4,
R3414:2
Winds of strife, symbol of wars. R5753:1, R2334:4
Windy strife of words, not the voice of God, but the voice of
humanity. R4741:4, R2333:6
Quite probably they are already (1904) being let loose.
R3414:3
Represents the present (1915) war. R5629:4, R5753:1
Rent the mountains -- Mountains represent kingdoms; a
great weakening of the nations, governments of the earth, by
wars; and increased knowledge and discontent among the
people. A318; SM795:3; R5601:2, R5629:4
Not In the wind -- God's Kingdom will not follow the
epoch of war. R2334:4
An earthquake -- Symbolically represents a social
revolution. R5629:4; SM795:3; R5753:2, R2334:4,
R3414:3, R5649:5, R5601:2; A336, D528
The earthquake of Rev. 16:18. R3414:3, R2334:5
When the kings and captains of industry, finance and politics
will, in self-defense, exalt the power of religious leaders.
R5601:3
Another power by which, ultimately, the present order of
things will give way before the Kingdom of God's dear Son.
R4741:4
This will not come as soon as the war begins, but the war
might continue while the earthquake is on. R5629:4,
R5753:2
Not in the earthquake -- Revolutionary experiences will
not be sufficient to prepare men to hear the voice of God.
R2334:4
In none of these great experiences coming to the world will
God be manifest. They will all be merely to fit and prepare
man for the voice of Eden. R5753:2, R2334:4
1 Kings 19:12
A fire -- Anarchy, symbolically represented by St. Peter as

consuming the ecclesiastical heavens and the social, financial
and political earth. (2 Pet. 3:10-13) R5753:2, R3414:3
The great time of trouble (Dan. 12:1) is prefigured also by a
tidal wave, a whirlwind and the loosing of the four winds.
R5863:6
Celestial fire, lightning, symbol of anarchy, consuming and
destroying the present order of things. R2334:4, R5753:2,
R5567:4, R5601:2, R5629:4, R5649:5, R2333:6
The third great phase of the calamity. SM795:3
Anarchy--Armageddon experiences. I think the Church will
be gone before the Armageddon experience, but cannot be
sure. Q617:4
Not In the fire -- The fire, representing consumption,
destruction, anarchy, is not the Lord, but merely human
passions which he will permit. R4741:5
After the fire -- These calamities having completely
exhausted and humbled mankind. R2334:5, R5649:5
A still small voice -- The voice of truth, love, wisdom.
R3414:3
The voice of God, the divine power, which will bring the
blessings to the world. R5629:4, R5601:2
The "pure language" (Zeph. 3:9) or pure message of God's
Word. R3414:5
Corresponding to the "Be still" of Psa. 46:10. R3414:6,
R2334:5
Not by earthly might nor by earthly power will the Lord
establish his rule. R3414:6
The King will take his great power with the result that the
fires of anarchy will be extinguished. SM795:3
Which Luther's translation renders, "The voice of Eden." God
was in the voice--it really and truly represented him. R5752:3
"It shall come to pass that every soul that will not hear that
prophet shall be destroyed from amongst the people." (Acts
3:23) R2334:5
Elijah had expected his reformation to go forward like a
windstorm, or an earthquake or lightning; and when it did not,
he fled. Now he was to understand that it would be more
secret and quiet in the hearts of men, before giving outward
manifestation. R2340:3,6
The voice of God's Word speaking to his people today.
R4741:5
1 Kings 19:13
Went out -- The type here changes to teach lessons of our

present privileges and responsibilities. R4212:4*
1 Kings 19:16
And Elisha -- Probably a type of the Great Company until

he re-crossed Jordan. Q260:3; R3416:4, R4758:2, R5771:6
A class that will come into deep sympathy with the Elijah
class, and follow the Lord's leading with it, yet a class that
will not expect to be glorified. B265
We have no positive proof in the Scriptures that he was a type
at all. Q259:2; R3429:2
Prophet in thy room -- To prepare and instruct Elisha,
representing those who shall succeed the overcomers as the
Lord's mouthpiece on the earth. R557:6
1 Kings 19:18
7,000 in Israel -- Similarly there are thousands in the

nominal system who are not in sympathy with the errors they
are taught, but are confused and blinded. R3415:1
Similarly today there are two classes in spiritual Israel: one
class is in the wilderness condition; another, a larger class, is
still more or less associated with, and bound up in, Babylon.
R4741:5
The "Little Flock" may be rather difficult to discern. We are
to look for them everywhere--in all denominations, and
outside all. SM702:1
Unto Baal -- The Papal "Beast" and the Protestant
"Image." (Rev. 13) R290:6
Hath not kissed him -- Which was the custom. R3415:1
1 Kings 19:19
Elisha -- Signifying, "God is deliverer." R3428:3

With twelve yoke -- Indicating that he was the son of a
wealthy Israelite. R3428:3
1 Kings 19:21
Ministered unto him -- For more than 10 years. R3428:3
1 Kings 20
1 Kings 20:1
Ben-hadad the king -- Overlord of Syria, who had under

him 32 kings. R4758:3
1 Kings 20:4
King of Israel answered -- Recognizing the greatness of

Syria's army and his unpreparedness for resisting. R4758:3
1 Kings 20:11
Let not him -- The test of endurance is one of the severest

to which the elect Church is subjected. R1656:1
Boast himself -- Applicable, not only to every new recruit
in the Lord's army, but similarly to all who have not yet
finished the good fight of faith. R1656:1
Putteth it off -- We are forewarned of the great necessity
of the whole armor of God. R1656:2
To put on the robes of glory in the first resurrection. R3125:2
1 Kings 20:13
That I am the LORD -- God would demonstrate his

power by protecting his covenant people, reviving their faith
and loyalty. R4758:6
1 Kings 20:16
Thirty and two kings -- Benhadad and his host would

correspond to Satan and his various hosts of unrighteousness.
R4759:1
May represent various trusts, political grafters, various
preying vices. R4759:1
1 Kings 20:32
Let me -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being. E334
1 Kings 20:35
Of the prophets -- Gatherings of young men desirous of

studying the Law and appreciating the divine will. R3415:1
1 Kings 21
1 Kings 21:3
Give the inheritance -- Jewish Law forbade the selling of

family inheritances; but he could have given a lease for a time
to the king's pleasement. R5770:6, R4741:3
1 Kings 21:4
And Ahab -- Type of the Roman empire. B256;

R3408:3
1 Kings 21:5
But Jezebel -- Type of the apostate church of Rome and

her false spirit in Protestant sects. R5629:1; B256
1 Kings 21:6
Give me thy vineyard -- The crime of covetousness is

now not only general and common, but almost approved as
proper. It seems to be generally practiced. R2340:1
1 Kings 21:8
With his seal -- The emblem of authority. R360:4*

Unto the elders -- Ahab's covetousness was of the most
approved kind, in that it sought to act through others, and
stoned Naboth by proxy. R2340:3
1 Kings 21:9
Proclaim a fast -- To make a mockery of religion.

R4741:5
Seemingly in honor of God's laws and his justice. R5771:2
Set Naboth on high -- Religion has often been injured by
being made the tool of hypocrisy and covetousness. R2340:4,
R4741:6
1 Kings 21:11
Even the elders It is doubtful whether our disgust should

be greater with the queen who instigated the evil, or with the
elders who so supinely became the tool to accomplish it.
R2339:6
1 Kings 21:12
Set Naboth on high -- Covetousness sometimes strikes the

dagger of scandal under professions of love and esteem, or of
pity and sympathy. R2340:2
1 Kings 21:13
Naboth did blaspheme -- Sometimes covetousness has the

hypocritical mask of duty, religion and fidelity to God.
R2340:2
And stoned him -- Jewish Law provided that any
blasphemy against God's name should be punished by
stoning. R5771:1, R4741:6
That he died -- Wars of commercialism show a spirit of
willingness to kill our neighbors in order to enlarge our own
properties. R5853:2, R4741:6
Sharp, competitive business practices are covetousness of the
same kind. R4741:6
1 Kings 21:16
To take possession -- Thus he fully endorsed the conduct

of Jezebel. R2340:3
As though he did not recognize that there is a God of justice
to whom he must ultimately account. R4742:4
1 Kings 21:17
Came to Elijah -- Type of the true Church in the flesh.

B256; R5629:1
1 Kings 21:19
Thou shalt speak -- So it is our place to speak the word of

God that the antitypical Ahab shall be slain. R235:5
Dogs lick thy blood -- This prophecy was fulfilled to the
letter very shortly after. R4742:4
1 Kings 21:20
Ahab -- The Roman empire. R235:5

Hast thou found me -- Inclined to ignore the Lord and to
think merely of the prophet. R4742:4
Sold thyself -- If God denounced Ahab, what would the
Lord's verdict be on some of the customs of our day?
R4742:1
Covetousness is one of the most crying evils of our day.
R4742:4
1 Kings 21:21
Thy posterity -- Empires succeeding the Roman. R235:5
1 Kings 21:23
The dogs -- The degraded. R235:5

Eat Jezebel -- The church and world united system shall
be cast down and consumed. R235:5
1 Kings 21:29
Because he humbleth himself -- On account of this degree

of repentance. R2340:5
In his son's days -- A mark of God's patience and
forbearance. R2340:6
1 Kings 22
1 Kings 22:22
A lying spirit -- One of the fallen angels. R2173:4,

R2171:3
1 Kings 22:24
Micaiah -- One of the worthy servants of Mark 12:3-5.

R1796:1
1 Kings 22:40
Slept with his fathers -- Death is a condition of rest, quiet,

or peaceful unconsciousness. R5605:4, R5059:6, R4794:2
1 Kings 22:41
In the fourth year -- The total years of the reigns of Asa,

Jehoshaphat and Jehoram of Judah agree with the total of
Ahab, Ahaziah and Jehoram of Israel; though the details do
not show the closest harmony. R4601:5*
2 Kings
2 Kings 2
2 Kings 2:1
When the LORD -- Elijah had a specially protected life;

he was wholly under divine control; true also of the
antitypical Elijah class. R3415:3
Would take up -- A parallel to the taking away of the last
members of Christ. R5845:2
Elijah -- Type of the true Church in the flesh. B256;
R557:3, R4757:2, R5771:3; Q305:2
John the Baptist, as the forerunner of Jesus in the flesh,
typified the greater Elijah. R4757:3; B250; R557:1
Into heaven -- Into the air; "No man hath ascended up to
heaven." (John 3:13) R3378:4, R558:5, R3417:4, R5772:3,
R4757:1; Q259:4
By a whirlwind -- Uniformly used in the Scriptures to
represent great confusion and strife. R4757:6
A symbol of trouble; fiery trials. B260; R5773:1, 4,
R2341:6
Severe persecutions, ecclesiastical commotions. R3417:2,3
Anarchy. R5845:6, R5867:4
Elijah went -- His closing experiences parallel the closing
experiences of the last members of the Christ Body in the
flesh. R5845:1; B255, B256; R557:2, 3
With Elisha -- Possibly a picture of the Great Company.
R5771:6, R4757:5, R3429:2, R3417:1, R1132:1, R558:2
He may typify two classes: those who now are associated
with the Elijah class, and those in whose charge will be the
dispensing of restitution blessings. R5780:1, R3429:2,3,
R3417:2; Q260:3, Q305:2
We may not be quite so sure that Elisha represented a
secondary class of God's people, a great company. R5771:6,
R4757:5, R4758:2; Q260:3, Q259:2
Gilgal -- Gilgal means "rolling away the reproach." (Josh.
5:9) HG70:1
Elijah's movements from leaving Gilgal to crossing Jordan
have their exact parallels under the midnight cry movement.
HG69:6
Site of a "school of the prophets." R3416:1
Would seem to represent the beginning of the harvest
time--October, 1874. R5772:4, R5845:2
2 Kings 2:2
Tarry here -- The stopping places foreshadowed various

points in the time proofs where it was thought that the
translation of the saints might be due. R558:1
Implying that Elisha was discouraged and had lost faith in the
journey; but they went on. R5772:4
Representing the trials and difficulties in the pathway of the
Church, a sifting or separating work. R4757:5, R558:1;
Q305:2; R1132:3
October 1874 (Gilgal) was looked forward to as the possible
time when the Church would be completed. Some measure of
disappointment was felt when expectations were not realized.
R5772:5
Beth-el -- Where Jacob's ladder stood, receiving its name
in consequence of that vision. HG70:2
The Spring of 1878 corresponded to Bethel, a parallel to the
Lord's assuming his kingly office in the end of the Jewish age.
R5772:5, R5845:2
I will not leave thee -- He understood that the degree of
his blessing would depend upon the closeness of his company
with Elijah. R2341:4
A blessing came to all those who received their
disappointment in the proper spirit and went on. R5772:5
If Elisha typifies the Great Company this would prove no
outward separation between the Church and the Great
Company. Q305:2
Those who are sifted out by the way will be neither of the
Elijah nor of the Elisha classes. R2431:4
Elisha represents a persevering and faithful company. R558:1
2 Kings 2:3
Sons of the prophets -- Schools of the prophets, gatherings

of young men desirous of studying the Law and appreciating
the divine will. R3415:1, R3416:1, R2341:1
Apparently these schools were started in the time of Samuel
as "summer schools," not a monastic order. R3430:3
If types, they would seem to represent a third class,
acquainted with Elijah and Elisha, yet not particularly
associated with them. R5772:1; Q666:2,4 The theologians of
that day. B266
Now, as then, some come together as schools for the study of
prophecy; and now, as then, these schools are on the increase.
R2341:2
That were at Beth-el -- Exercising a wholesome influence
for righteousness and the worship of God, the operation of the
"still small voice." (1 Kings 19:12) R2341:1
Said unto him -- In confidential whispers. R3416:2
2 Kings 2:4
Tarry here -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:2.

Although not promises, it was not unreasonable to think of the
Scripturally-marked date of Spring, 1878 as the time for the
Church's glorification. R5772:5
Came to Jericho -- Which means "his month," or "moon."
HG70:2
Corresponded to 1881, parallel to the door being opened to
the Gentiles. R5772:5, R5845:2
2 Kings 2:6
Tarry, I pray thee -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:2.

We assumed that 1881 might mean a change of dispensation
and the glorification of the Church; but we were mistaken and
went on. R5772:5
Sent me to Jordan -- Which is judgment. HG70:4
The word Jordan has the significance of "judged down"; thus
would seem to represent the peoples of earth, judged by the
truth. R5846:2
To the Royal Priesthood, Jordan represents consecration unto
death. R3087:1
Corresponding to October 1914, the close of the Times of the
Gentiles. R5772:5, R5845:2
2 Kings 2:7
Fifty ... sons of the prophets -- While refraining from

following, they were deeply interested, and witnessed what
transpired. R3416:3
They two stood by Jordan -- At very nearly the same
point the Lord wrought through Joshua the miraculous
crossing of the Israelites. The steep hillside beyond Jordan
was quite possibly Mt. Nebo, where Moses died. (Deut.
32:49, 50) R3416:3, R3429:2
So the Lord's people have been standing for some time since
1914. R5845:3; Q387:2
2 Kings 2:8
Elijah took his mantle -- An outward indication, or sign,

of God's power with Elijah; representing God's power and
blessing with the Church. R5846:4, R5950:2; Q387:2
Wrapped it together -- Concentration of forces for the
smiting. R5950:2
Evidently referring to some special power given to the Elijah
class. Q387:2
It may mean a great deal of money. Q387:2
And smote the waters -- In Bible symbolic language,
water represents both truth and peoples. R5846:2
Pictures a mighty work yet to be accomplished, and
apparently in the very near future. R5950:2
As Elijah did the smiting, so all those who belong to the
Elijah class will have a share in it. R5988:4
The Church will use what is in their hand, the power and
authority of the truth, the power of God, in smiting the
waters, peoples, who will be judged by the truth. R5846:2,4
The smiting will probably affect the whole civilized world.
Q387:2
Apparently the consuming of the tares will correspond very
closely with the division of Jordan. The smiting will reveal
the truth in respect to what is the real Church of Christ and
what are imitations. R5951:4
They were divided -- People are to be separated from
people, the truth being received by some and rejected by
others. R5846:2, R5950:2
The division of the waters may require either years or months.
R5888:4
2 Kings 2:9
Elisha -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:1.

I pray thee -- Elisha's special desire, above all things, was
to have a large measure of the spirit of the Lord. R2431:5
A double portion -- Not twice as much as Elijah
possessed, but twice as much as given to any other. R3416:4,
R3428:6
The portion of the first-born. R4771:1
Of thy spirit -- Energy, force, power to teach. R558:2
An extra share of his spirit of consecration and power.
R1132:4
2 Kings 2:10
A hard thing -- It will be a very difficult matter, even for

those expecting the event, to recognize the change of the
Elijah class. R558:2
If thou see me -- If you continue steadfast and follow on,
and are not separated by the trials by the way. Q305:2;
R5772:6, R3417:2, R2341:5
Only in proportion as they discern the completion of the
Elijah class will they become recipients of a large measure of
Elijah's spirit and zeal. R3416:5
Only such as recognize the change of the Elijah class can fill
the teaching position. R558:3
When I am taken -- To some the thought of being taken
away from the present life suddenly, violently, in fiery
troubles, would be a terrible prospect; not so for the Elijah
class. R5773:4
It shall be so -- After the Elijah class has been glorified,
the Elisha class will be energized by the change of
dispensation and evidences of the fulfilling of the divine plan,
to be practically as devoted and zealous as the Elijah class.
R3416:6
2 Kings 2:11
They still went on -- Not that they are necessarily

personally acquainted in the antitype, but they walk the same
road. R1132:2
Not disconcerted, Bible Students, since 1914, are going on,
not headed for any particular date, even as Elijah was not
directed to go to any other place. R5772:6
And talked -- In sympathy and interest, friendship
profitable and encouraging to both. R1132:3
A chariot -- The Elijah class caught up in power and great
glory; the spiritual exaltation of the Church. B254; R968:5,
R2341:5, R5845:5, R2341:5; B260
A figure of victory and glorious escape from the whirlwind of
trouble. B260
Ours is the real deliverance by chariots of victory and divine
power from death. R3429:1
Of fire -- May signify that the last members of the Church
will be separated under very trying circumstances, fiery trials,
persecutions, violence. R2341:5, R3417:2, R5569:5,
R5772:6, R5845:5, R5950:2; Q259:4
Horses of fire -- Spiritual doctrines. R1132:6
And parted them both -- Separating the Elijah and the
Elisha classes, the Little Flock and the Great Company.
R5845:3, R5950:2, R4757:6, R5773:1
Already (1889) the fiery chariot begins to separate the classes.
R1132:2
Elijah went up -- The close of the Church's career in the
flesh will come suddenly, abruptly. R4757:6
We expect that the Church, the antitypical Elijah, will all
have passed beyond the veil before the anarchy predicted in
the Bible. R5794:5
The transfiguration of Elijah was a picture, or vision, of the
change of the Church at the end of this age. Q259:4
By a whirlwind -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:1.
Many of the Lord's people will be taken from the present life
in some anarchistic movement. R5845:6, R5773:1,
R5950:3, R5867:4, R2341:6; Q259:4
Fierce trouble, agitating the heavens or ecclesiastical powers.
R3417:3
And not by the chariots. R3417:2, R1132:4
Further trouble to the chariot experience. R5773:1
Into heaven -- No doubt buried somewhere by the Lord, as
Moses was buried secretly. R2342:4
Possibly to some other world, to return in due time to impress
certain lessons on mankind. R3417:4
If still alive, still under the death sentence, not escaped from
the bondage of corruption. R3417:5
See comments on 2 Kings 2:1.
2 Kings 2:12
Elisha -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:1.

Saw it -- Holding back from the persecution, but not
drawing back to sin, or to a repudiation of the Lord. R5950:3
Rent them in two pieces -- An act, in that day, symbolic
of grief, sorrow and mourning. R3429:2
2 Kings 2:13
He took up also -- Representing that Elisha had become

Elijah's successor, to receive a special blessing of the Elijah
spirit. R5771:6; B265
Continuing for a while the work that Elijah had been doing.
R3416:6, R5771:6
The mantle -- The power and spirit of fuller consecration.
R1132:5
Elijah's mantle of power and authority as the Lord's
representative (See 2 Kings 2:8). R5780:1; Q260:3,
Q305:2
The receiving by Elisha of power seems to correspond to the
"foolish virgins" getting their oil. (Matt. 25) R3416:6
Elijah -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:1.
2 Kings 2:14
Smote the waters -- The Elisha class passes through death

in much the same way as the Elijah class does. Q260:3,
Q305:2; R3417:1
Where is the LORD God of Elijah? -- That is to say, Is
not the Lord God of Elijah with me? Showing faith that the
same power of God exercised through Elijah would be
exercised through him. R2341:6
Elisha -- Our thought is that he typified two classes: first
that he typified those associated with the Elijah class (the
Great Company); and that after the taking of Elijah and
re-crossing the Jordan (picturing the death of the Great
Company) he became a type of those associated with the
dispensing of restitution blessings (the Ancient Worthies).
R5780:1, R4758:2; Q305:2; R3429:3, R3417:1; Q260:3
2 Kings 2:15
Sons of the prophets -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:3.

Doth rest on Elisha -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:1.
The meaning of the name Elisha is "mighty deliverer," and the
career of Elisha was one of restitution work. B266
2 Kings 2:16
Seek thy master -- Illustrating how the world will be as

ignorant of the glorification of the true Church as they were
of the glorification of its head at the commencement of the
age. R558:3
2 Kings 2:17
And they sought -- Certain classes of Christian people

may doubt that the Church has really gone to glory, but
afterwards they are thoroughly convinced. R5772:1,
R3429:4
Three days -- May be symbolic, representing three years.
R5772:1, R3429:4
2 Kings 2:18
Tarried at Jericho -- The word "Jericho" signifies "His

moon" or "month." There is a hint in this that Jericho typifies
fleshly Israel, which will be the first to recognize the Elisha
class, the Ancient Worthies. R3429:5
2 Kings 2:19
The water is naught -- Brackish, representing impure

doctrines. R5780:2; B266; R4758:4
2 Kings 2:20
A new cruse -- Representing the new institutions, new

conditions, new views of the Jews respecting Christ and the
glorified spiritual Israel. R3429:6
Put salt therein -- "Ye are the salt of the earth." (Matt.
5:13) R3429:6
2 Kings 2:21
Unto the spring -- Representing the Word of God. B266

Representing the Law. R3429:5
Of the waters -- Representing the waters of truth, now
brackish with error. B266, R4758:4, R5780:2, R2345:3
And cast the salt -- The purifying property of salt is here
referred to. R2099:2
"Ye are the salt of the earth." (Matt. 5:13) It will be in and
through the glorified salt of the earth that the blessing will
come, the streams of truth for human refreshment. R5780:2,
R4758:4
The Law was in itself just, perfect, good, yet it lacked
something necessary to make it a blessing to Israel--the work
of Christ fulfilling the Law and removing its condemnation.
R3429:5
Healed these waters -- Cleansing from untruth and error,
by the glorified Church, through the Ancient Worthies, to the
world, through the Jews. This is also what St. Paul calls to
our attention in Rom. 11:25-33. R4758:4, R5780:2
2 Kings 2:23
Little children -- Not babies, but young hoodlums, from

10 to 20 years of age. R4758:2, R5780:2, R3429:6
Out of the city -- Indicating that amongst natural Israel
will be some who will not appreciate the healing work done
by the Elisha class. R3429:6
These will disregard the instructions of the earthly
representatives of the Kingdom. R3429:6
Go up -- Your master, Elijah, went up to heaven in a
whirlwind. Why do not you go also? R4758:1
Thou bald head -- You are a bald head, or one who has
lost his master. R4758:1
A particularly opprobrious epithet in those days. R3429:6
Failing to render a proper appreciation of the dignity of the
office of the Ancient Worthies as chosen agents of the
heavenly Kingdom. R3430:1
2 Kings 2:24
Cursed -- Declared them "evil in the name of Jehovah"

(Young's translation). R3429:6
He did not swear at them, but denounced their conduct as
wrong and declared that it would have a punishment.
R5780:2, R4758:1
And tare -- Tore them, wounded them; there is no
suggestion that the bears ate them or killed them. R5780:2,
R4758:2
"When thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the
world will learn righteousness." (Isa. 26:9) R5780:3,
R3430:1
So there will be judgments in the world during the
Millennium; punishments for every wrong course, rewards for
every right deed. R5780:3, R3429:6, R4758:5
2 Kings 4
2 Kings 4:1
A certain woman -- Josephus claims that this woman was

the widow of Obadiah. R3430:6
Of the wives -- Indicating that the school of the prophets
was not a monastic order. R3430:3
Sons of the prophets -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:3.
Unto Elisha -- Her cry to the prophet of the Lord was a cry
to the Lord himself. R3431:3
Fear the LORD -- That is, he reverenced, worshipped and
sought to serve the Lord. R3430:6
To be bondmen -- According to the terms of the law her
sons must serve the creditor until the debt was paid or until
the Jubilee year. R2345:3
Represents how the whole world of Adam's family was sold
under sin and obligated to pay the wages of sin, death.
R3430:3
2 Kings 4:2
Elisha -- Elisha may also typify the Ancient Worthies

(See 2 Kings 2:14). R5780:1, R4758:2; B265; R3417:2
What shall I do -- Showing the Lord's willingness to help
us to pay our honest debts; and our responsibility to pay them.
R2345:5
What hast thou -- During the Millennium the Lord will
bless what people may have according to their faith. R5780:4
We should look to see what we have in our possession.
R5419:3, R5780:4
God can use our humblest talent to his praise. R5419:2
Hath not any thing -- The woman did not appeal for
divine aid until she was in extremities, and neither should we.
R3431:3
A pot of oil -- God is pleased to bless the use of things
which we have rather than to send us other things. R2345:5
Olive oil was used for light, cooking, and as butter in those
days; a household necessity and an article of ready sale.
R3431:2
The Lord used what she had on hand. R5419:4
Olive oil is used in the Scriptures as a symbol of the holy
Spirit. R3431:4
2 Kings 4:3
Even empty vessels -- It is for us to see that we are

emptied vessels; empty that he may fill us with his Spirit.
R3431:5
Borrow not a few -- Her faith was tested and developed by
the prophet's requirement that she and her sons should
cooperate in the borrowing of vessels. R3431:4, R2345:5
The fact that she was able to borrow from her neighbors
implies a good reputation. R3431:2
2 Kings 4:5
She poured out -- Reminding us that during the Millennial

age his Spirit shall be poured upon all flesh. (Joel 2:28)
R3431:4, R558:4
A beautiful picture of restitution blessings. R4758:5,
R2345:5
Thus, as we acknowledge divine mercies and render thanks,
the blessing is only increased. F687
2 Kings 4:6
The vessels were full -- Illustrating the blessed rewards of

faith that the Lord will grant during the Millennium. R5780:4
Representing how the antitypical Elisha will help the poor to
secure the oil of joy for the spirit of heaviness in the
Millennium. B266
Every vessel fitted for its reception shall be filled with the
Spirit to its full. R3431:4, R558:4
2 Kings 4:7
Pay thy debt -- Justice was not to be violated. R5780:4,

R2345:5
2 Kings 4:8
A great woman -- Evidently widely known as a good and

wise woman, and probably possessed of a large estate.
R3431:3, R2345:6
The kind of greatness, too, which recognizes goodness and
reverences the Lord and those who are his. R2345:6
2 Kings 4:9
Unto her husband -- Manifesting a commendable wifely

deference to his wishes. R2346:1
2 Kings 4:10
A little chamber -- Every home, if possible, should have

such a guest chamber for the Lord's servants. R2346:1,
R3432:1
Present day arrangements for public hotels are calculated to
hinder the development of the spirit of hospitality. R3432:1
2 Kings 4:13
What is to be done -- Those who accept the favors of

others and lack the desire to do as much in return are lacking
the Lord's spirit. R2346:2
2 Kings 4:17
The woman conceived -- The miraculous interposition of

divine power quickening the dormant and inoperative forces.
R560:6*
2 Kings 4:22
To the man of God -- Her faith in the prophet corresponds

very well to our faith in the Lord Jesus. R3432:4
2 Kings 4:26
It is well -- Avoiding the questions of Elisha's servant.

R3432:3
An answer of faith having full confidence in the power of
God, through the prophet, to awaken her son from the dead.
R2346:2
2 Kings 4:27
Hid it from me -- It was not by any power that the prophet

himself possessed that he had any special knowledge, but by
revelations from the Lord. R2349:6
2 Kings 4:29
Take my staff -- Much after the same style that the

Apostle Paul sent napkins and handkerchiefs to the sick.
R3432:3
2 Kings 4:30
I will not leave thee -- Possibly realizing that the servant

was not such a man as his master. R3432:3
2 Kings 4:35
Then he returned -- The Lord is pleased to exercise his

power, either slowly or quickly, according to circumstances
and conditions. R2346:5
Walked ... to and fro -- Apparently the prophet was
perplexed by this case. R2346:4
Child opened his eyes -- This restoration of life was a
foreshadowing of the great Times of Restitution. HG336:1
Picturing coming restitution work of the Millennium, when all
the sleeping dead will be awakened. R5781:2; B266;
R4758:5
Was merely awakened, not "resurrected," not "raised to life
again." F703, F704; R2346:5
2 Kings 4:38
There was a dearth -- Representing a lack of spiritual

food. B266
Sons of the prophets -- Representing theologians. B266;
R558:4.
See comments on 2 Kings 2:3.
2 Kings 4:40
Death in the pot -- Deadly doctrines, error and

superstition, combined with Satan's great falsehood.
R4758:4, R558:4
This will be effectually offset by the blessings of the Lord
through his glorified Kingdom. R4758:4
2 Kings 4:41
That they may eat -- May represent a healing of the food

of theologians by the putting of an antidote into their
poisonous mess. R558:4
2 Kings 4:44
And they did eat -- Representing that spiritual food shall

be made wholesome and plentiful. B266; R558:4
2 Kings 5
2 Kings 5:1
The LORD had given -- Naaman's victory is credited to

Jehovah, who did interfere with the affairs of outside nations
to some extent. R3438:2
Deliverance unto Syria -- To Syria and Israel, in
combination against Shalmaneser II. R3438:2
He was a leper -- Leprosy corresponds to sin: it is
incurable, loathsome, contagious, destructive, painless.
R4769:1, R3439:3, R2347:2
A figure of sin, incurable, except by divine miracle. R5780:4
2 Kings 5:3
She said unto her mistress -- So all those who know of a

divine power and arrangement for the healing of sinners may
tell the good tidings, even to their enemies. R4769:1
Leprosy -- See comments on 2 Kings 5:1.
2 Kings 5:7
Rent his clothes -- In indication of his great distress.

R5780:5, R3438:6, R2347:1
Am I God -- The king of Israel was an idolater. He
probably had no dealings with, and scarcely any knowledge
of, Elisha. R3438:6
Leprosy -- See comments on 2 Kings 5:1.
2 Kings 5:10
And Elisha -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:14.

Sent a messenger -- We feel sure that it would not be the
Lord's will that we as his followers should duplicate or copy
Elisha's manner, but should render honor to those to whom
honor is due. R3439:1
Elisha's course declared, "I am greater than you, because
while you are the servant of the king of Syria, I am a servant
of the King of kings." R3439:2
Wash in Jordan -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:6.
The antitypical Jordan, "the fountain filled with blood, drawn
from Immanuel's veins." R2347:6, R4769:1
Seven times -- A complete cleansing, washing. R4769:1,
R3439:4, R2347:6
Our belief, obedience and baptism unto death must be perfect
or complete, otherwise there is no remission of sins. R3439:4
Signifying that half-hearted consecration and obedience are
not what the Lord is pleased to honor and bless. R3439:5
2 Kings 5:11
But Naaman was wroth -- He expected great

consideration for his rank. R4768:6, R2347:1, R3439:1,
R5780:5
2 Kings 5:12
Are not Abana -- No doubt the modern river Barrada; it

has the clearest waters possible. R3439:2
May I not wash in them -- There are various theories,
philosophies and many suggestions as to how sin can be
gotten rid of. R3439:4
2 Kings 5:13
His servants came near -- In a moderate and wise manner,

and offered him some good advice. R2347:2, R4768:6
When someone comes to the place of being ready to obey the
Lord's voice, to be rid of his load of sin, it not infrequently is
the result of good counsel on the part of his Christian friends.
R2347:6
2 Kings 5:14
Then went he down -- Although fearful that no good

would come from the washing and that he would be the
laughing stock of all. R4768:6
Others may help to impress the lesson; yet no recovery from
sin can be made except as the individual himself follows the
divine prescription. R4769:1
Seven times -- See comments on 2 Kings 5:10.
And he was clean -- As only divine power could heal the
leper, only the same can heal the sinner. R4769:1
Foreshadows the restitution work. B266
2 Kings 5:15
And he returned -- Retraced his journey nearly forty

miles to thank the prophet and to bestow gifts. R4769:2
Gratitude is one of the most worthy sentiments of the human
mind. R4769:2
Demonstrating that the Lord's blessing of healing was
conferred upon a man of naturally noble traits. R3439:5,
R2348:2
Take a blessing -- A present. R2348:2
The truly great take pleasure in being just and generous.
R3439:6
His gifts were consecrated beforehand and so, after receiving
the blessing, to have withheld any part
would have proven him unworthy; so with our consecration.
R3440:1
2 Kings 5:16
I will receive none -- Thus showing that Naaman's healing

was a favor, and not in exchange for the expensive presents
he brought. R3439:2, R2348:4
The gifts of God's grace are not to be bartered for earthly
good things. R4769:4, R5780:6
While it is not wrong for servants of the Lord to receive
compensation, yet the Lord is more glorified if they do not.
R3440:2
How much to the Lord's glory if all of God's people would
emulate Elisha in this respect. R4769:4, R3440:2, R2348:4
2 Kings 5:17
Burden of earth -- Enough of the consecrated soil of

Palestine for the building of an altar to the Lord. R3440:2,
R2348:5
2 Kings 5:18
Pardon thy servant -- Since Naaman was not an Israelite

but a stranger to the covenant and promises of Israel, less
would be required of him. R3440:3, R2348:6
My master -- The king of Syria. R3440:2
2 Kings 5:19
Go In peace -- Elisha's answer was, in substance, that if

the General made full profession of faith in the true God it
would not be improper for him to accompany his master to
the house of the false god, for his adherence to Jehovah God
would be recognized. R5781:1
2 Kings 5:20
But Gehazi -- Elisha's servant had a different spirit and

determined to get something by a process of graft." R4769:4,
R5781:3, R3440:5, R2349:2 Covetousness leads to various
other sins. Nearly every crime is more or less traceable to it.
R2349:2,4
There are some today in daily contact with the truth who do
not partake of its spirit and in whom selfishness is the ruling
passion. R3440:5
2 Kings 5:27
Leprosy . . . of Naaman -- With knowledge came

responsibility; hence, the severe punishment inflicted upon
him for hypocrisy and deception. R5781:2
2 Kings 6
2 Kings 6:12
But Elisha, the prophet -- Apparently the knowledge of

Jehovah and Elisha had spread from General Naaman to some
of the household of the king. R5781:4
Telleth the king -- Probably angels were the divine
instrumentality in informing Elisha of the things proper to be
told the king of Israel for his protection. R2349:3
2 Kings 6:13
Go and spy where he is -- The king was not wise in his

determination, not realizing that the prophet would be
informed by the wisdom of God. R3440:6
2 Kings 6:15
The servant -- Not Gehazi, but another more worthy.

R2349:6
Was risen early -- Elisha doubtless understood in
advance, but did not flee. R3441:1
2 Kings 6:17
Open his eyes -- The spiritual body, though shining

"above the brightness of the firmament," cannot be seen by
mortals without a special revelation. HG28:6
That he may see -- Angels can be, and frequently are,
present, yet invisible. A182
Giving to his eyes of understanding a proper conception of

the divine power present with the prophet. R3441:2,
R5781:5
A prayer doubtless intended of the Lord as a lesson for his
people down through the ages. R3441:1
And he saw -- A vision, an active parable, a picture similar
to the symbolic pictures of Revelation. R3441:2, R5781:5
Horses and chariots -- Illustrative of the divine power and
protection. R3441:2
Of fire -- Like fire, as all spirit beings are described in
Scripture. R2350:1
Round about Elisha -- The Father has numberless
messengers to care for the interests of his cause on earth,
ministering especially unto the very elect. (Psa. 34:7; Matt.
18:10) R3441:3, R5781:5, R4769:3, R2350:1
God's omnipotent power, like a mighty army, completely
surrounds those who are his. R5781:5, R4769:3
The Christian is enabled, through faith, to see the armies of
the Lord encamped about him without a miracle being
performed on his natural sight. R2350:1
2 Kings 6:18
With blindness -- Not total blindness, but bewilderment or

hallucination similar to that produced by hypnotism; the eyes
of their understanding being closed. R5781:6, R4769:6,
R3441:5, R2350:4
2 Kings 6:19
Neither Is this the city -- True, for Dothan was not

Elisha's city; his house was in Samaria, where he took them
and brought them to the man they sought--himself. R2350:5
2 Kings 6:21
Shall I smite them? -- Israel's kings were learning

gradually that the will of the Lord was to be considered.
R2350:5
2 Kings 6:22
Set bread and water -- "If thine enemy hunger, feed him;
if he thirst, give him drink; for in so doing thou shalt heap
coals of fire on his head." (Rom. 12:20) R3441:6
How many enemies could be won by kind treatment, who
would be made bitter by even just treatment. R4770:1
2 Kings 6:23
Came no more -- The best victories are the bloodless ones;

where the spirit of righteousness, mercy and benevolence are
victorious over the spirit of rivalry, ambition and selfishness.
R2350:6
2 Kings 8
2 Kings 8:6
King appointed unto her -- A secondary reward for her

hospitality and faith. R3432:5
2 Kings 8:17
He reigned eight years -- Usher's chronology incorrectly

makes this period only four years. B52
A confirmation rather than a source of doubt. R4601:4
2 Kings 8:18
Way of the kings of Israel -- Baalism extended from the

court of Israel to the court of Judah. R3446:3
2 Kings 8:26
Two and twenty years old -- 42 years, according to

2 Chron. 22:2. HG105:2
2 Kings 9
2 Kings 9:9
The house of Ahab -- Representing civil power, the

Roman empire. B256; R4741:1; Dii; OV268:3
2 Kings 9:10
Jezebel -- Symbolizing corrupt church system, the great

harlot, Babylon. (Rev. 2:20) R4741:1, R2341:2; B256;
Dii; OV268:3
2 Kings 9:16
Went to Jezreel -- In the plain of Esdraelon, near the hill

of Megiddo (Armageddon). Di
2 Kings 9:22
Whoredoms of thy mother -- Jezebel is the type of the

Papal church, the mother of abominations. R389:2*
2 Kings 9:30
Jehu -- He served as the sword of the Lord to execute

retribution upon Ahab and Jezebel. R3446:6; B266
Jezebel -- See comments on 2 Kings 9:10.
2 Kings 9:33
Throw her down -- Foreshadowing the final overthrow of

the system represented by her. B266
2 Kings 10
2 Kings 10:18
Ahab -- See comments on 2 Kings 9:9.
2 Kings 10:28
Jehu destroyed Baal -- When the systems typified by

Ahab and Jezebel, and all who unite with them against God,
shall be fully and finally overthrown. B266
2 Kings 11
2 Kings 11:1
Athaliah -- Daughter of Jezebel. R3446:6, R4776:3

Seed royal -- She caused all her grandsons to be put to
death. R3446:6, R4777:1
2 Kings 11:2
Jehosheba -- Daughter of Athaliah, but wife of the High

Priest and under his influence. R3446:6
In the bed chamber -- A room used for the storage of
sleeping mats. R4777:1
Because of Baal worship the rooms of the priests, in
connection with the temple of Jehovah, were generally
neglected and were a safe place to rear the young king.
R2366:3
2 Kings 11:3
Athaliah did reign -- As Queen Dowager, she was the

highest authority in the kingdom. R4776:3
2 Kings 11:4
Jehoida sent -- With great wisdom he called together the

chiefs of the nation at a festival time, when their coming
would not be thought strange. R4777:4
2 Kings 11:12
The testimony -- On top of the crown was laid the

testimony, the parchment scroll of the Ten Commandments,
indicating that the divine law was superior to the crown.
R4777:5
2 Kings 11:14
Treason, Treason -- Injustice sometimes becomes

entrenched and fortified in human minds, so that an attempt to
establish righteousness is considered treason. R4777:5
2 Kings 12
2 Kings 12:1
And forty years -- Which Usher incorrectly reckons as

thirty-nine. B52
2 Kings 12:3
High places were not taken -- The influence of the

idolatry of surrounding nations was still upon them. R4777:3
2 Kings 12:4
Passeth the account -- A poll tax. R3447:6

Is set at -- Possibly the tithes, one-tenth of all the profits of
the year. R3447:6
Heart to bring -- Voluntary donations above those
required under the Law. R3447:6
2 Kings 12:5
Repair the breaches -- The Temple had long been in

disuse, and stones from it may have been used for the temple
of Baal. R3448:1
The spiritual Temple has become seriously deranged during
the long period of the Dark Ages. R3448:2, R4778:2,
R2367:4
As Christians we are individually the temples of God (1 Cor.
3:16, 17), and must not only keep as undefiled as possible in
thought, word and act, but also take reasonable care of our
physical bodies. R2367:2
2 Kings 12:6
Priests had not -- The Reformation promised great things

in the way of repairs needed in the spiritual Temple, but the
Protestant clergy have used the means and opportunities for
personal advantage. R3448:2, R2367:4
2 Kings 12:7
The other priests -- Representing the Protestant clergy

(See 2 Kings 12:6). R3448:2
Said unto them -- The king passed over the matter of the
lack of repairs as lightly as possible, without charging the
priests with embezzlement or neglect. R4777:3
Breaches of the house -- See comments on 2 Kings 12:5
Receive no more money -- Voluntary offerings are
approved rather than those that are importuned, coaxed
begged, wheedled from saints and sinners. R4777:6
2 Kings 12:8
Repair the breaches -- See comments on 2 Kings 12:5.
2 Kings 12:9
But Jehoida -- Representing our High Priest, the Lord

Jesus. R3448:2
A hole In the lid -- A money chest with slotted top for
voluntary contributions, convenient to worshippers passing in
and out. R4777:3,6, R3448:1
2 Kings 13
2 Kings 13:14
Now Elisha -- Elisha's remarkable history as a prophet and

representative of God in Israel continued for nearly 65 years.
R2354:2
And Joash -- Otherwise called Jehoash. R2354:2
Was evidently very humble and had come to realize that
Israel's trouble lay in neglecting Jehovah. R2354:3
Wept over his face -- Sorrowful that he now would no
longer have heavenly counsel; perhaps remorseful that he had
not sooner appreciated the privileges which he did enjoy.
R2354:3
Chariot ... horsemen -- May signify that he regarded
Elisha as a host in himself, as the chief defense of the nation.
R2354:3
The same words Elisha used of Elijah's taking (2 Kings 2:12).
Seems to intimate that the Elisha c1ass belongs to the
spiritually-begotten family. R558:5
2 Kings 13:17
Shalt smite the Syrians -- Jehoash having come to a right

attitude of mind, the Lord was pleased to release him and the
kings of Israel from Syrian subjection. R2354:3
2 Kings 13:18
And he smote thrice -- Whether through little faith or lack

of patriotism, he struck the arrows in a feeble way, and three
times only; not even asking how many times he should strike.
R2354:3
And stayed -- A lesson that whatever we do should be

done with our might. We should keep on smiting until our
enemy is vanquished. R2354:5
2 Kings 13:19
Was wroth with him -- Reasoning that if Jehoash had

been full of zeal and faith for delivering Israel he would have
been more energetic to strike the floor, representing Syria.
R2354:5
Till thou hadst consumed -- We have a spiritual conflict
against a wily foe, and we must smite energetically until
victory. R2354:5
2 Kings 13:20
The Moabites invaded -- As a further chastisement,

possibly because the faintheartedness of Jehoash became all
the more manifest after Elisha's death, and because he and
Israel did not serve the Lord with a whole heart. R2354:6
2 Kings 13:21
He revived -- God would remind Israel of his power and

his word, by reminding them of Elisha and his words.
R2354:6
2 Kings 14
2 Kings 14:25
Jonah ... of Gath-hepher -- In Galilee, thus contradicting

the Pharisees who said, "Out of Galilee ariseth no prophet."
(John 7:52) R3568:2*
2 Kings 16
2 Kings 16:2
Reigned sixteen years -- Which Usher incorrectly gives as

fifteen. B52
2 Kings 16:18
The king's entry -- A remarkable passageway leading

from the palace to the Temple. R2067:5
2 Kings 17
2 Kings 17:2
That were before him -- A rather doubtful compliment, of

being less evil than some of his predecessors. R4819:3
2 Kings 17:6
And carried Israel -- The ten tribes. R4819:3

The fall of the ten tribes of Israel pictures the fall of Papacy.
R2360:5
2 Kings 17:8
Statutes of the heathen -- Israel was quite willing to be

God's special people, but seemingly they did not wish to be
his peculiar people. R2359:1
Spiritual Israel must be "peculiar people" and not attempt to
please and copy the world. R2360:4
2 Kings 17:9
Did secretly -- Hypocritically, under the pretense that they

were doing this in the service of the true God. R2359:3
Corresponds with the tendency of many in Christendom today
of publicly showing an outward display in forms and
ceremonies, thinking they are increasing in godliness.
R2359:4
2 Kings 17:10
Images and groves -- As natural Israel had its groves and

totem-posts, so many spiritual Israelites have their various
creeds. R3464:6
2 Kings 17:12
They served idols -- Idols today are popularity, wealth,

fame, self, denomination. R2359:5, R3464:6
2 Kings 17:13
Keep my commandments -- Israel's prosperity or defeat

indicated the Lord's favor or disfavor, in a manner not
applicable to other nations. R4820:1
2 Kings 17:14
Hardened their necks -- A figure of speech drawn from

the stiffness of neck of a yoke of unruly bullocks. R3464:1
Symbolizing a self-willed and rebellious attitude of heart.
R4820:2, R3464:1
2 Kings 17:15
Rejected his statutes -- Israel rejected God's Law, God's

word; lost faith in God's promises; lost sight of the result of
forsaking his counsel; followed foolishness, desiring to be not
peculiar but popular. R2360:2
This applies to antitypical nominal Israel of today. R2360:4
Went after the heathen -- The disposition to do like the
world is the seductive point at which the great Adversary
would switch us off from being the Lord's peculiar people.
Let us remember John 15:19. R2360:4
2 Kings 17:17
To pass through the fire -- The fire of Moloch, as

sacrifices. The modern Moloch is a god of everlasting
torture. R2360:1
We have today a Moloch on a much larger scale, the God-dishonoring
imaginations of a god red hot with the flames of
hell or purgatory. R3464:6
Divination and enchantments -- God's Word warns us
against having anything to do with occult powers. R5800:2
They held intercourse with the fallen angels. R2359:6
This same spirit of wilfulness and dissatisfaction with divine
arrangements is not lacking today. R2359:6
Sold themselves to do evil -- They became the slaves of
their passions and self-deceptions, misled of the evil spirits.
R3464:1, R2359:6
2 Kings 17:18
With Israel -- These other nations were not specially

chastised for idolatry as was Israel. R3463:6
Removed them -- Israel's overthrow was a judgment from
the Lord. R4820:1
It was God's abandonment of the ten-tribe kingdom, his
permission for them to have their way and henceforth to be
treated of him as the heathen. R3463:6
An entire alienation from God. R3464:1
The greater religious faith and zeal was always to be found in
Judah, and gradually many of the more religious in Ephraim
(the ten-tribe kingdom) removed to Judah. R3464:2,
R4819:3
Tribe of Judah only -- There are analogies in spiritual
Israel: the great "falling away" from the faith; the captivity to
Papacy and the world (Babylon); the "Reformation," and the
separation of "Israelites indeed." R3464:5
The fall of the ten tribes of Israel reminds us of the fall of
Papacy for similar reasons. R2360:5
2 Kings 17:20
All the seed of Israel -- The Israelites were destroyed as a

nation; but God's favor will return to the twelve tribes, and
their regathering will be the first blessing to humanity under
Messiah's reign. R4820:4
2 Kings 17:23
Removed Israel -- See comments on 2 Kings 17:18.

So was Israel carried away -- Whoever of them
maintained faith in God and observed circumcision
maintained his membership as an Israelite. Others ceased
entirely to be Israelites. R4819:6, R3464:4
To Assyria -- They gradually assimilated with the
population surrounding them and lost identity as Israelites.
R3463:6
2 Kings 17:24
Place them in ... Samaria -- Thus the Samaritans of Jesus'

day were Gentiles who had been transported to Samaria.
R2574:1
2 Kings 17:27
Let him teach them -- Thus the Samaritan Gentiles

obtained a smattering of knowledge of Jewish hopes,
combining them with false ideas of their own. R2574:1
2 Kings 17:41
Feared the LORD -- Comprehended through the light of

nature; but not justified thereby. R1030:2*
2 Kings 18
2 Kings 18:3
Did that which was right -- The fact that so good a son
could come from so evil a father is an evidence that under
divine providence it is not necessary that we should inherit all
the evil traits of our ancestors. R2379:2
The secret of the difference between the father and the son
was a godly mother. R3462:3
His faithfulness formed the basis for his later prayer for an
extension of life. R3588:4
2 Kings 18:4
Removed the high places -- He began in the first month of

his reign to inaugurate reforms; the restoration of the worship
of Jehovah as divinely appointed. (2 Chron 29:3) R2379:3,5
The antitypical cleansing of the Lord's Temple, his
Church, is still in progress. R3463:4
2 Kings 18:5
None like him -- Hezekiah was reckoned in the Lord's

sight as one of the three most acceptable kings--David and
Josiah being the other two. R3462:3
2 Kings 18:7
He rebelled against -- By joining the confederacy of

Egyptians, Philistines and Sidonians, contrary to the Lord's
admonition through (Isa 8:12), this error was allowed to work
out a serious penalty. R4832:3
2 Kings 18:12
Not hear . . . nor do them -- If reproofs do not have a

corrective influence they will have the opposite effect--the
sinner will be the more obstinate and opposed to God.
R4820:2
2 Kings 18:14
To Lachish -- The siege and capture of Lachish is amply

illustrated on the walls of the palaces in Nineveh, with full
particulars given. R2382:5, R520:3*
That which thou puttest -- Hezekiah's first move was to
placate his adversary by becoming his vassal and paying
annual tribute, wherein he greatly erred. R2381:3
2 Kings 18:15
All the silver -- Spiritual Israelites may be disposed to do

as Hezekiah, purchase peace with things consecrated to the
Lord--to compromise the truth, to subtract from the time,
influence, means, etc., consecrated to the Lord. R2381:6
If the Lord's consecrated people do this, he will permit to
come upon them the very difficulties they dread and seek to
avert by unholy compromise. R2381:6
2 Kings 18:17
Against Jerusalem -- Sennacherib rued his agreement and

violated it. R4832:6
This attack was permitted as a consequence of Hezekiah's
failure to recognize Jehovah at once as the almighty ruler and
preserver of his people. R2381:3
2 Kings 19
2 Kings 19:2
To Isaiah -- Hezekiah's friend, advisor and supposed tutor

in earlier years. R2381:3
2 Kings 19:7
I will send a blast -- Smiting of the angel of the Lord.

(See 2 Kings 19:35) R2382:2
Some have supposed a simoon, or sandstorm, not uncommon
in the Arabian desert. R2382:1
Fall by the sword -- Sennacherib was assassinated by his
own sons. R2382:4
2 Kings 19:15
Between the cherubims -- Representing love and power,

above a foundation of justice represented by the Mercy Seat.
T125
2 Kings 19:28
Hook in thy nose ... bridle -- Representing the manner in

which bullocks and horses are controlled. R2381:5
2 Kings 19:29
This shall be a sign -- That the deliverance was not

temporary but permanent. R2382:4
2 Kings 19:32
Shall not come into -- Confirmed by the inscriptions on

the monuments unearthed in Sennacherib's palace in Nineveh.
R520:5*
2 Kings 19:35
Angel of the LORD -- Does not necessarily refer to an

angelic being, but signifies "messenger." God is able to use
winds or waves, lightnings or sandstorms, or pestilence, or
any other agency. R2382:2, R3582:5; PD41/52
Smote In the camp -- Would have been most horrible if
those smitten had gone to eternal torment instead of awaiting
a resurrection, secured by Christ's death. PD41/52
Jewish tradition ascribes the destruction to a pestilence.
R2382:2
Egyptian history ascribes Sennacherib's retreat to an invasion
of field mice which gnawed the quivers, bowstrings and
thongs of their shields. But mice, to the Egyptians, are a
figurative way of speaking of the plagues. R2382:2
Other incidents of divine providence similarly intervening to
protect those whom divine will did not want further injured
include the destruction of the Spanish Armada and the retreat
of Napoleon's army from Moscow. R2382:2
2 Kings 20
2 Kings 20:1
In those days -- Somewhere in the period of Hezekiah's

prosperity and consequent pride. R2382:6
731 BC, 125 years before the removal of the crown from
Zedekiah (606 BC); corresponding to the date of the French
Revolution, 1789 AD, from which Christendom recovered,
though it must have seemed to be a "sickness unto death";
which was 125 years before 1914, when Gentile crowns are
removed. R3574:1,2*
Was Hezeklah sick -- Penalty for his failure to render unto
the Lord according to his blessings. R2382:6
2 Kings 20:2
And prayed -- Isa. 38:9-22 records in poetic form

Hezekiah's resolves and is evidently the embodiment of his
previous prayer. R2382:6
2 Kings 20:7
And Isaiah said -- Isaiah did not pray with Hezekiah, nor
suggest prayer, but was surprised when sent back to inform
Hezekiah that he would recover. R2028:6
A lump of figs -- A poultice. Many who believe in faith
healing today would object to a fig poultice or any other
human instrumentality being used. R2029:1
2 Kings 20:8
Shall be the sign -- The Lord's people of the New Creation

should avoid putting the Lord to tests and signs. He desires
his people to walk by faith and not by sight. R3589:1
2 Kings 20:11
Brought the shadow -- Probably by means of conditions

in the upper atmosphere causing two parhelia or mock suns.
R2383:1,* R3589:2; Q770:4
Ten degrees backward -- Professor Garbet declares that
he knew of an afternoon when, on sundials in Southern
England, there occurred exactly the same wonder. R2383:1,
R3589:4; Q770:4
Perhaps symbolically representing the ten years from the
French Revolution to the beginning of the Time of the End.
R3574:3*
2 Kings 20:20
Brought water -- This seems to shadow forth the founding

of the various Bible Societies at the beginning of the last
century. R3574:3*
2 Kings 21
2 Kings 21:1
Manasseh -- Isaiah, his supposed grandfather, having died

previously. R2386:3
Was twelve years old -- If properly reared, he should have
been considerably established in the ways of righteousness.
R3598:3
2 Kings 21:2
That which was evil -- Good men and loyal to the Lord
may be poor fathers as was Hezekiah in this case. R3598:2
The Lord's people have a serious responsibility to impress the
plastic minds of their children with the principles of
righteousness: "Train up a child in the way he should go."
(Prov. 22:6) R3598:2
2 Kings 21:6
With familiar spirits -- The fallen angels. R5800:1,

R1643:1, R2171:3, R2172:1; Q804:3
2 Kings 21:16
Shed innocent blood -- Probably in ignorance,

under the frenzied zeal of false religion. R2387:2
2 Kings 22
2 Kings 22:1
Josiah -- Meaning "Jehovah will support." R2390:2

Jedidah -- Meaning "the beloved of Jehovah." R2390:2
Adaiah -- Meaning "the honored of Jehovah." R2390:2
2 Kings 22:5
Repair the house -- After cleansing the land of idols, he

determined next to repair the Temple. R2390:5
So with the consecrated; after destroying the fleshly idols of
the heart comes usefulness and service to the Lord, in
building up the true temple. R2390:5
2 Kings 22:11
The book of the law -- Presumably the original copy of the

book of Deuteronomy, written by Moses' own hand. R2390:6
Corresponding to the Reformation movement of the 16th
century, leading to the finding and understanding of God's
law, the Bible. R2391:5
The reading of it awakened one of the greatest revivals in the
history of that nation. R4051:1
Rent his clothes -- An expression of dismay. The book's
delineations of the Law were so different from what had been
taught by the priests that the king was astonished. R2390:6
Realizing how far short Israel had come and noting the
punishments prescribed, he was greatly troubled. R2391:1
In olden times, this was a symbol of distress, perplexity or
fear. R3608:3
2 Kings 22:14
Unto Huldah -- For several reasons: (1) perhaps a woman,

especially one connected with the court, would give a softer
message; (2) Jeremiah and Zephaniah may have been away
from Jerusalem; (3) the king may have considered the above
two prophets too extreme; or (4) to obtain an outside
testimony since Jeremiah was the son of the High Priest and
Zephaniah his own cousin. R2391:2
The prophetess -- God, who is no respecter of persons,
requires faithfulness on the part of female as well as male
stewards in the use of all their talents. R1549:4
2 Kings 22:16
Evil upon this place -- It was too late for any national
reformation. So far as Christendom is concerned there is no
balm in Gilead that will help and recover her. R2391:4
2 Kings 22:19
Thine heart was tender -- An honest, believing heart,

realizing that the nation of Israel had committed the very sins
recorded in Deut. 28. R3608:3
2 Kings 22:20
Behold therefore -- Because of the splendid work of

reformation which the king had inaugurated. Q765:2
Thy grave in peace -- Conditioned on Josiah's faith and
obedience to the Lord. Q765:2
2 Kings 23
2 Kings 23:4
Made for Baal -- Or Bel, type of the god of Babylon, the

Pope. D40
2 Kings 23:10
Molech -- The valley of Hinnom (Greek, Gehenna) had

erected in it a brass figure of the god Moloch which, being
hollow, was heated intensely and then into its outstretched
arms were placed children offered in sacrifice. R3069:1
Today in Christendom we have a Moloch on a much larger
scale, a much worse representation of God--a god red hot
with the flames of hell or purgatory, with millions in his
embrace. R3464:6, R2360:1; PD41/52
2 Kings 23:16
And burned them -- Prophesied in 1 Kings 13:1-3.

R3607:3
2 Kings 23:20
Slew all the priests -- Violent opposition to idolatry was a

responsibility of every king in Israel; but spiritual Israelites
are not to war with carnal weapons. R3607:3
2 Kings 23:21
Keep the passover -- 641 BC. The 2520-year parallel in

the Gospel age of the great passover, the resurrection of "the
dead in Christ" in 1878 AD, and the passing over of the feet
members since that date at the moment of death. R3574:4*
2 Kings 23:24
Familiar spirits -- The fallen angels. R5800:1, R1643:1,

R2171:3, R2172:1
2 Kings 23:25
With all his heart -- It is not sufficient that we be well-disposed

and moral; it is necessary that we devote ourselves
wholly to do his will, and then seek after him to know his
will, and do it. R2390:3
2 Kings 23:29
And he slew him -- The reason why Josiah suffered a

violent death is outlined in 2 Chron. 35:20-22. What a lesson
for all, not to meddle in the affairs of others. Q765:2
2 Kings 24
2 Kings 24:3
At the commandment -- The Lord gave Judah every

opportunity to learn the needed lessons: (1) in the object
lessons of the works of idolatry in the ten-tribe kingdom; and
(2) when they witnessed the captivity and dispersion of the
ten-tribe kingdom for disloyalty to Jehovah. R2401:2
2 Kings 24:8
Eighteen years old -- Not eight, as in 2 Chron. 36:9 by a

copyist's error. B53
2 Kings 24:14
Carried away all Jerusalem -- This partial captivity

occurred eleven, not eighteen, years before the dethronement
of King Zedekiah, as Usher incorrectly puts it. B52
Daniel and his companions were included in this captivity.
R2401:6
Save the poorest -- Shortly even these, "all people, both
small and great," fled to Egypt for fear of the Chaldees (2
Kings 25:26) and the seventy years of desolation of the land
"without an inhabitant" began to be fulfilled. B52; R3437:3,
R1372:5
2 Kings 24:17
Made Mattaniah . . . king -- Compelling him to take an

oath of allegiance to the kingdom of Babylon. R2401:6
2 Kings 25
2 Kings 25:6
They took the king -- As nearly as we can tell, it was the

year 606 BC. R5564:2
2 Kings 25:7
Carried him to Babylon -- Fulfilling two very remarkable

prophecies: That Zedekiah would be taken captive to Babylon
and die there, yet never see the city (Ezek. 12:13); and,
contrary to this, that he would speak with Nebuchadnezzar
mouth to mouth and see his eyes. (Jer. 32:4, Jer. 34:3)
R2402:1; PD47/59
2 Kings 25:8
The seventh day -- The 10th day, according to Jer. 52:12.

HG105:2
2 Kings 25:9
Burnt the house -- Nebuchadnezzar utterly destroyed

Jerusalem and its Temple with fire. PD48/59
2 Kings 25:13
To Babylon -- Symbol of Babylon the Great. C120
2 Kings 25:15
As were of gold -- Symbolic of precious truths. C120
2 Kings 25:26
And all the people -- Thus beginning the seventy years

desolation. B52; R2402:1, R1372:5
Came to Egypt -- Therefore, in reckoning the time to the
desolation of the land, all periods up to the close of
Zedekiah's reign should be counted in. B52; R3437:3,
R1372:5
2 Kings 25:28
Spake kindly to him -- In spiritual Israel the unfaithful,

like Jehoiachim, might be chastened and afterwards treated
with leniency. R3623:3
1 Chronicles
1 Chronicles 1
1 Chronicles 1:5
Sons of Japheth -- Supposed to be the original settlers of

Europe. D556
1 Chronicles 1:9
Sheba and Dedan -- Supposed to be original settlers of

northern Africa. D556
1 Chronicles 1:17
Sons of Shem -- Supposed to have settled Armenia,

Western Asia. D556
1 Chronicles 2
1 Chronicles 2:55
The Kenites -- Sharing in the promised land because of the

help given by Hobab in guiding Israel through the wilderness
(Num. 10:29; Jud. 4:11). R3061:5
1 Chronicles 3
1 Chronicles 3:5
Of Bath-shua -- It was in Solomon's favor that his mother

was not of an heathen family, but an Israelite, and therefore
more in sympathy with the divine arrangements. R5701:5
1 Chronicles 4
1 Chronicles 4:43
Rest of the Amalekites -- Representing sins. The Lord's

command comes to us to put away sin entirely. R3225:3
1 Chronicles 5
1 Chronicles 5:1
Unto the sons of Joseph -- Indicated by Jacob's giving

Joseph the coat of many colors: a royal garment. R1635:4
1 Chronicles 5:2
Above his brethren -- In Genesis 49 the blessings of both

Joseph and Judah are great, but that of Judah is far greater.
R2124:6
1 Chronicles 5:20
Trust in him -- Pray, having faith in God. R5380:2*
1 Chronicles 6
1 Chronicles 6:1
Gershon -- Meaning "Refugees" or "Rescued," type of the

saved world of mankind. F129
Kohath -- Meaning "Ally" or "Comrade," type of the
Ancient Worthies. F129
And Merari -- Meaning "Bitterness," type of the Great
Company. F129
1 Chronicles 6:2
Amram -- Meaning "High People" or "Exalted People,"

type of the Little Flock whose head is Christ Jesus. F128
1 Chronicles 9
1 Chronicles 9:1
Reckoned by genealogies -- Clearly kept to show the

outworking of every item of God's plan "in due time."
R1420:1
1 Chronicles 10
1 Chronicles 10:12
All the valiant men -- Whom Saul had rescued 40 years

earlier. R4234:5
Buried their bones -- So no further indignities could be
expressed. R4234:5
Fasted seven days -- Illustrating the fact that the human
race, though sadly fallen, retains elements of the original
image of God in the flesh. R4234:5
1 Chronicles 10:13
Saul died -- The threatened punishment. R755:1*

Which he kept not -- Of these commands Saul was well
aware. R755:1*
Asking counsel -- Advice. PD42/52
Contrary to God's command, of one that had intimacy with a
spirit. R755:1*
A familiar spirit -- A witch at Endor. PD42/52
Communication with fallen angels. R2172:1
We are warned against having anything to do with occult
powers. R5800:1
To enquire of it -- We should not suppose that God would
recognize or use any means of communication which he had
prohibited on pain of death and condemned as wicked.
R265:6
1 Chronicles 11
1 Chronicles 11:2
That leddest out -- Performing all the duties of a

government in protecting from the incursions of the bordering
tribes. R4225:1
1 Chronicles 11:3
Made a covenant -- Agreeing to serve as a king under a

limited monarchy, under a constitution spelling out the rights
of the people and the rights of the king. R4236:1
1 Chronicles 11:18
Not drink of it -- Few indeed among the kings of earth

would consider any sacrifice of their fellowmen too costly to
be bestowed on them. R2015:6
Poured it out -- Such water he considered too costly to
drink. R2015:6
To the LORD -- Tendered the water as a thank offering to
the Lord and as an expression of highest appreciation to his
followers. R4225:2
1 Chronicles 12
1 Chronicles 12:1
They that came to David -- A large band of discontented

people, mostly victims of Saul's persecution. R4225:1
1 Chronicles 13
1 Chronicles 13:1
With every leader -- It is wiser, better every way, that all

the Lord's people be invited to join in any prominent matter
connected with the Lord's service. Even in a small
congregation it will be found disadvantageous to have one
person do all the speaking, all the leading, all the serving.
R3252:4
1 Chronicles 13:2
Let us send abroad -- Gathering 30,000 representatives

and making the Ark's restoration a national act. R2003:1
1 Chronicles 13:3
The ark of our God -- Symbol of the divine presence, the

most sacred thing about the typical Tabernacle. R2002:3
Possibly its movements may have included the movement of
the other articles of furniture of the Tabernacle. R3252:1
To us -- To the capital city, making it the city of the great
King, directing the minds of Israel, through the earthly king,
to the heavenly King whom he represented. R3252:4
As David desired to be near the Tabernacle, close to the Lord,
so should we long for a closer walk with God, a nearness to
the Mercy Seat-Christ Jesus. R4260:5
1 Chronicles 13:6
Between the cherubims -- Representing love and power;

upon a foundation of justice, represented by the Mercy Seat.
T125
1 Chronicles 13:7
In a new cart -- Instead of upon the shoulders of the

Levites as instructed by the Lord (Num. 4:15; Num. 7:9).
R3252:6, R2003:2, R5679:6, R4259:5
It is not our part to change one iota of the ordinances of God.
R2003:5
Uzza and Ahio -- Sons of Abinadab the priest. R3252:3
Drave the cart -- Probably by oxen. R2003:1
1 Chronicles 13:9
Put forth his hand- God is guiding his own affairs and he
is fully capable of their management. R4260:1
Quite possibly long association with the Ark had bred in
Uzzah a familiarity and loss of respect for it as representative
of God. R3252:6
The poet has noticed this tendency of some to "rush in where
angels fear to tread." R3253:1
1 Chronicles 13:10
The anger of the LORD -- Not violent passion, but

sufficient displeasure to warrant punishment. R3252:6
Against Uzza -- For his lack of reverence and for his open
violation of the divine regulation in the sight of the
representatives of all Israel. "The fear of the Lord is the
beginning of wisdom." (Prov. 9:10) R3252:6
God tolerated the ignorance of the Philistines who were not
his people; but gave Israel a severe reminder of his
displeasure at their carelessness. R2003:2
To the ark -- Let us not feel for a moment that everything
will go to pieces in the Church unless we steady the ark.
R3613:2
And there he died -- But no injury was done to Uzzah's
eternal future. R3253:2
1 Chronicles 13:11
Was displeased -- With his former determination to bring

the Ark to Jerusalem, and that through lack of care matters
had gone astray. R3252:5
A breach upon Uzza -- This was no injustice, because he
was already under the death sentence anyway. F174
It was necessary because everything connected with the Ark
typified something greater. T12
1 Chronicles 13:12
How shall I bring -- The lesson was one of avoiding

irreverence-in manner, language, jokes on religious things.
R5680:1, R3253:1
1 Chronicles 13:13
Obed-edom -- A Levite, possibly a priest. R5679:6
1 Chronicles 13:14
Blessed the house -- Because Obed-edom reverently

received the Ark. R2003:2
Abinadab received no special blessing during the years the
Ark was in his house. Similarly the Bible in some families
brings no blessing from year to year, but in others it brings
great blessings in a few short months. R3253:4
So that King David noticed, and resolved again to restore the
Ark to Jerusalem. R5680:1, R3253:5
1 Chronicles 14
1 Chronicles 14:11
David smote them there -- Illustrating God's deliverance

of regathered Israel. D555
1 Chronicles 15
1 Chronicles 15:2
But the Levites -- David read the lesson clearly--this time

the symbol of divine presence should be reverently borne
according to divine directions. R2003:4
1 Chronicles 15:15
Upon their shoulders -- The lesson was learned that

obedience to the letter is better than sacrifice. R4260:3
1 Chronicles 15:29
Came to the city -- The justified can enter the city of God,
the Church, only by consecration; not sorrowful at the cost of
sacrifice, but joyful. R4260:5
1 Chronicles 16
1 Chronicles 16:12
Remember -- The spirit of praise was cultivated by calling

to mind and recounting what the Lord had done for Israel.
R2031:6
His marvelous works -- So must the Christian continually
call to mind the works of the Lord, especially in his own
individual experiences. R2031:6
1 Chronicles 16:17
And to Israel -- The twelve tribes of Israel after Jacob's

death. A78
1 Chronicles 16:22
Mine anointed -- King Saul was God's anointed. In

sparing his life David acted in harmony with the Lord's will.
PD40/50
1 Chronicles 16:33
He cometh -- When he appears day appears, life appears,

fruitfulness appears. The curse departs. The "bondage of
corruption" (Rom. 8:21) is no more. Clouds, storms, troubles,
sorrows vanish. The face Of nature reassumes the smile of
Eden times. It is earth's festival, the world's Jubilee. R302:3
To judge the earth -- The judgment day will be a glorious
and desirable day. A147
"He hath appointed a day in the which he will judge the world
in righteousness." (Acts 17:31) R3028:6
1 Chronicles 17
1 Chronicles 17:1
David said to Nathan -- Some in the present time anxious

to establish the kingdom of the Lord, have not taken counsel
of the prophets of God to know his will. R4261:3
Under curtains -- David thought of the incongruity of his
living in a grander house than that of his God. R4260:3
1 Chronicles 17:4
Thou shalt not build -- "Because thou hast been a man of

war, and hast shed blood." (1 Chron. 28:3) It was not part of
the divine program for David to build, but for his son
Solomon. These were types of glorious things to come.
R4260:6
We are not to conclude that because our plans are reverential
and designed for the glory of God they must have the divine
approval. R3258:6
1 Chronicles 17:5
From tent to tent -- The Lord prefers that his

representation in the world in the present time shall be
extremely simple and unostentatious. R3259:2
1 Chronicles 17:7
From the sheepcote -- Representing the plane of the fallen

natural man. R3259:4
1 Chronicles 17:9
Moved no more -- Temporari1y fulfilled under David and

Solomon but really to be fulfilled in the Millennial age.
R3259:4, R4261:1
1 Chronicles 17:10
Will build thee an house -- The Lord would not cut his
family off from the throne. This will be fulfilled by Messiah
and his Kingdom. R4261:2
1 Chronicles 17:11
His kingdom -- Solomon's kingdom, typical of Christ's

Millennial reign. R3259:6
1 Chronicles 17:12
He shall build -- Primarily Solomon, who built the typical

Temple; but the antitype, Christ, will build the real Temple.
R4261:2
An house -- Typifying the Church of the living God,
through which all prayers to God and all blessings from God
will pass. R4261:3; PD45/55
His throne for ever -- The period from Zedekiah's reign to
that of Christ being merely an interregnum, a suspension of
David's kingdom, which might not go to another. R3259:5;
PD47/59
Our Lord sprung not from Solomon's line. Christ was the heir
prophesied who should establish David's throne forever.
R4261:4
1 Chronicles 19
1 Chronicles 19:8
When David heard of it -- It should be noted that David's

wars were not aggressive wars, nor wars of conquest, but that
they were always defensive. R2015:2
1 Chronicles 19:9
Children of Ammon came -- The disposition of these

nations was to exterminate Israel. David's only righteous
course was to fight. R2015:2
1 Chronicles 20
1 Chronicles 20:3
So dealt David -- While outwardly prosperous, David

declined an inward piety, resorting to unnecessary cruelty.
R2016:3
1 Chronicles 21
1 Chronicles 21:1
To number Israel -- Contrary to the Law of God and the

counsel of his wisest men, putting his trust in numbers and
equipment rather than in God. R2016:3
1 Chronicles 21:8
I have sinned -- David was presumptuous in not first

ascertaining the will of God, the true King of Israel. God's
people should not lean to their own understanding. Q832:2
1 Chronicles 21:12
Three years -- Mentioned as seven years in 2 Sam. 24:13.

The numbers 7 and 3 resemble each other closely, so that one
of these is probably incorrect. R4018:4*
1 Chronicles 21:13
A great strait -- Realizing his own weakness David, in

humility, declined to make a choice. R5106:4; Q281:4
1 Chronicles 21:14
Upon Israel -- The sin of David was esteemed a national

sin and carried a national penalty. R4200:3
1 Chronicles 21:15
He repented him -- Before the punishment reached David

he had received the Lord's forgiveness for his sin. R5106:4;
Q281:4
1 Chronicles 22
1 Chronicles 22:5
Exceeding magnifical -- To represent the labor and care

and sacrifices of the loving hearts and active hands of a
people devoted to God. R2030:6
The humble Tabernacle, whose beauties were hidden, typified
the presence of God with his people in the present time, while
the glorious Temple typified the Church in glory during
Christ's Millennial reign. R1237:4
1 Chronicles 22:7
And David -- Typifying the Church in the flesh.

R1901:3,6
Said to Solomon -- Typifying the Church in glory.
R1901:3,6
To build an house -- Like David, the Church in the flesh is
not privileged to build the Temple of God. R1901:6
1 Chronicles 22:8
Hast made great wars -- Typifying the continual warfare

of the Church in the flesh. R1901:6, R4261:6
This was no reproach against David, for he had done so in the
name of the Lord and for his people. R2030:3
1 Chronicles 22:9
Name shall be Solomon -- The Lord's choice among

David's sons to succeed him. R2045:3
Peace and quietness -- An apt symbol of the reign of the
glorified Church. R1901:6
1 Chronicles 22:11
Build the house -- Over every other ambition, David's zeal

for God predominated. R2030:6
1 Chronicles 22:13
And of good courage -- Both strength and courage are

necessary to every Christian and are developed by patient
endurance and faith in God under trials. R2031:1
1 Chronicles 23
1 Chronicles 23:3
From the age of 30 -- Not until Jesus attained the age of

30 was he the full-grown man, ready for sacrifice. R1682:5
1 Chronicles 23:6
Gershon -- Meaning "Refugees" or "Rescued , type of the

saved world of mankind. F129
Kohath -- Meaning "Ally" or "Comrade," type of the
Ancient Worthies. F129
And Merari -- Meaning "Bitterness," type of the Great
Company. F129
1 Chronicles 23:12
Amram -- Meaning "High People" or "Exalted People,"

type of the Little Flock whose head is Christ Jesus. F128
1 Chronicles 24
1 Chronicles 24:2
Nadab and Abihu -- Type of the class that sin the sin unto
death during the Gospel age, and of the Great Company class.
T40
1 Chronicles 27
1 Chronicles 27:32
A scribe -- In the days of the kings, scribes appear to have

been appointed to keep records of important events, which
were preserved and incorporated with the Law. R1145:3
1 Chronicles 28
1 Chronicles 28:1
David assembled -- To ratify Solomon's appointment and

anointing. R3276:2
David's course of seeking the cooperation of the entire
congregation points a good lesson to those who would serve
the Lord's flock. R3276:2
1 Chronicles 28:2
Stood up -- Notwithstanding his age and decrepitude and

the fact that it was usual to sit in such assemblages. R3276:3
Upon his feet -- Implying the importance of the matters to
be dealt with. R3276:3
Hear me, my brethren --A gracious salutation that was
not haughty, domineering or tyrannical. R3276:3
1 Chronicles 28:3
A man of war -- Typifying the battling of Christ and the

Church while in the flesh. R4261:1; PD44/53
And hast shed blood -- Our God is a God of peace, but the
gods of the heathen are gods of war and their mighty ones are
their bloody ones. Most of the names made prominent in
Westminster Abbey are those of generals and admirals and
men of the world. R3276:4
1 Chronicles 28:4
Chose me -- Similarly, "God has set the members in the

body as it hath pleased him." (1 Cor. 12:18) R3276:6
For ever -- The kingship should be in the line of David's
posterity. R3276:5
1 Chronicles 28:5
Hath chosen Solomon -- At this time about 20 years of

age; of milder disposition than his elder brothers; born after
David's sin and humiliation; educated by the prophet Nathan.
R3276:1
Upon the throne -- It is appropriate that the Lord's
anointed king should be charged with this important business
since it was a national project and he was their representative
and head. R2030:6
Antitypically The Christ shall sit upon the throne of his glory.
SM600:1
Corresponding to the clothing of purple, symbolically
representing royalty, in the Parable of the Rich Man and
Lazarus (Luke 16:19). HG428:2, HG161:5
Kingdom of the LORD -- Kings of Israel typified the
King of glory. SM600:1
1 Chronicles 28:6
Solomon thy son -- Typical of the Church glorified.

PD44/53
Shall build my house -- The divine arrangement complete
is not to be established by Christ in the flesh but by The
Christ of glory, represented by Solomon. PD45/55
To be my son -- In a typical sense; to typify Christ.
R3277:1
1 Chronicles 28:7
If he be constant -- The promise is specifically

conditional; the implication is that unfaithfulness would bar
Solomon's posterity from the throne of Israel. E131
If Solomon had obeyed God the throne of David would have
been established in his line forever; consequently, the
deathless heir to that throne would have come of his seed.
R467:3*
As at this day -- Solomon at this time was a model young
man. R3277:1
1 Chronicles 28:9
And thou, Solomon -- Whose name signifies "peaceful."

R4286:1
Solomon partook of his father David's religious disposition
more than his brethren did. His mother, an Israelite, was
more in sympathy with the divine arrangement than David's
other wives were. R5701:5
Know thou the God -- Only in proportion as we come to
know God can we properly trust or serve him. R3277:4
And serve him -- Outward service is not sufficient in our
dealings with the Lord. R4287:1
A perfect heart -- He seeketh such to worship as worship
him in spirit and in truth (John 4:23,24). R4287:1
Will cast thee off -- As he did, Solomon's line being
rejected. E131
On the ground of lack of obedience alone we must conclude
that David's throne and kingdom cannot be established forever
in Solomon's line. R467:5*
1 Chronicles 28:10
Build an house -- The growing together of the living

stones of the antitypical Temple is already in progress.
R3277:5
Be strong, and do it -- Giving Solomon abundant

opportunity for the exercise of his intelligence and ambitions
along proper and helpful lines. R4287:2
The Christ, the antitype of Solomon, has been strengthened,
faithful, an overcomer and approved of the Father. R3277:5
1 Chronicles 28:11
David gave to Solomon -- So the Lord makes known to us

his great plans and purposes respecting the future. R4287:4
1 Chronicles 28:15
Candlesticks of gold -- In Solomon's Temple, as in the

Tabernacle, a type of the complete Church. R3569:4; T115
1 Chronicles 28:16
For the tables -- The truly consecrated are the antitypical

priesthood whose "table" was typified in the Tabernacle and
in the Temple by the table of shewbread. R4782:4
Of shewbread -- In the Temple, as in the Tabernacle, a
type of the Word of God. R4782:4; T115
1 Chronicles 28:18
Cherubims -- Always connected with the immediate

presence or with the throne of God. R529:6*
Covered the ark -- Type of the divine covenant centering
in The Christ. It was transferred to the Temple, which
superseded the Tabernacle as the meeting place between God
and his covenant people. R3282:6, R3284:1; T121
1 Chronicles 28:19
By his hand -- Showing that the Temple was of the Lord's

design, not David's. R2030:5
1 Chronicles 29
1 Chronicles 29:1
For the LORD God --A building, into every fiber of

which should be worked the religious devotion and zeal of the
whole nation. R2030:5
The erection of this great Temple at Jerusalem would put the
true religion in the most prominent position before the nation
of Israel. R4287:2
1 Chronicles 29:2
I have prepared -- Typifying that the Church in the flesh

prepares the materials of which the true Temple of God is to
be constructed. R1901:6
1 Chronicles 29:9
Offered willingly -- Voluntary offerings have the approval

of both God and men. R4777:6
1 Chronicles 29:22
The second time -- This second anointing was like the

grand Amen! of the whole nation to the first anointing which
had been done in a comparatively quiet way. R2031:4
1 Chronicles 29:23
Throne of the LORD -- Before the first of their kings,

Saul; God considered himself as Israel's king. R1979:1
Typical in some respects of the Millennial Kingdom. A248;
C257
It was God's kingdom established in Israel. God was the king
of Israel. King David merely sat upon the throne of the Lord.
R507:2, R1358:4, R2364:1, R4722:3, R5700:3; OV82:1
As the Lord's representative he must act with instructions and
due authority. Q832:2
God was not only their ruler and king, but also the chief
executive officer to administer punishment for the violation of
his own laws. R2485:3
Though the earth is now given up to the undisputed dominion
of the Gentiles, the time was when God had a kingdom on
earth. HG47:3
Instead of David -- The kingdom of David is to be
restored; but David means Christ. And the kingdom of David
was the kingdom of the Lord. HG37:5
Israel obeyed him -- Solomon was recognized as king in
Israel in the room of his father David. R2030:2
1 Chronicles 29:27
Was 40 years -- A link in the chain of Bible chronology.

B50; R1980:4
Possibly typifying the harvest of the Gospel age. R4018:2*
The fact that he reigned more than forty years is three times
repeated, as in 2 Sam. 5:4, 5. HG68:4
Seven years -- Possibly typifying the seven years from
1874 to 1881. R4018:2*
1 Chronicles 29:29
They are written -- Scribes kept a careful record of the

important events in Jewish history. R1145:3
2 Chronicles
2 Chronicles 1
2 Chronicles 1:5
The brasen altar -- Type of the ransom sacrifice. T22
2 Chronicles 1:10
This thy people -- A lesson to those who speak of God's

people as "My people, "My flock," "My church." R3278:2
That is so great? -- Estimated at about 6,000,000.
R3278:3
2 Chronicles 1:11
But hast asked -- The same Hebrew word as "borrowed,"

where we read that the Israelites "borrowed of the
Egyptians..." (Exod. 12:35). R2911:5
2 Chronicles 1:12
Will give thee riches -- It was just like our Heavenly

Father to give Solomon the riches and honors which he had
not asked as a reward for his appreciation of wisdom.
R3278:5
Wealth, and honour -- The true Church receives spiritual
riches and honors for seeking heavenly wisdom. R3278:6
2 Chronicles 2
2 Chronicles 2:1
Build an house -- The Temple which Solomon erected was

a picture of the great Temple which God is erecting.
CR359:6
"Which temple ye are." (1 Cor. 3:17) CR359:1
2 Chronicles 2:7
To work in gold -- Symbol of the divine nature. T18

And in silver -- Symbol of the spirit nature--the Great
Company. R4092:6*
And in brass -- Copper, symbol of perfect human nature.
T18
And in purple -- Symbol of royalty. T34
And crimson -- Of scarlet, symbol of the blood of the
ransom. T109
2 Chronicles 2:8
Cedar trees -- Symbol of everlasting human life. T109
2 Chronicles 2:17
And Solomon -- Typifying our Lord. R1237:5

All the strangers -- Foreigners (the Tyrians) and the
enslaved Canaanites. R1237:1*
God has selected most of the Church from among those not
Israelites according to the flesh. R1237:5
Typical of the fact that aliens, strangers, foreigners and
enemies of the truth have the larger share in the work of
preparing the antitypical Temple, although in their
hammering, chiseling, melting and casting they little realize
the glorious interests served. R3282:6
3,600 -- Canaanites. R3282:6
2 Chronicles 3
2 Chronicles 3:1
Mount Moriah -- Before Jerusalem became a place of

residence its sacred hill was called "Moriah." R1296:3*
2 Chronicles 3:10
Two cherubims -- New and very large, probably nearly 21

feet high. R530:2
Always connected with the immediate presence or with the
throne of God. R529:6*
"Thou that dwellest between the cherubims." (Psa. 80:1)
T124
With gold -- Symbol of the divine nature. T18
2 Chronicles 3:14
Of blue -- Symbol of faithfulness. T30

And crimson -- Or scarlet, symbol of the blood of the
ransom. T109
And fine linen -- Symbol of righteousness. T36
2 Chronicles 4
2 Chronicles 4:1
An altar of brass -- In the Tabernacle it was a type of the

ransom sacrifice. T22
2 Chronicles 4:19
The golden altar -- In the Tabernacle, a type of the

Church. T120
And the tables -- In the Tabernacle, a type of the Church.
T115
The shewbread -- Type of the Word of God. T115
2 Chronicles 4:20
The candlesticks -- In the Tabernacle, a type of the

complete Church. T115
Of pure gold -- Symbol of the divine nature. T18
2 Chronicles 5
2 Chronicles 5:1
Was finished -- The harvest is the time for the construction

of this antitypical Temple, i.e., the bringing of all the
members, fruit-bearing branches of the Vine, into the perfect
spiritual condition. R172:2
2 Chronicles 5:2
Then Solomon -- Typifying the Lord Jesus. R3283:1

Assembled -- Typifying the present harvest work.
R3283:1
Elders of Israel -- Typifying the Lord's very elect.
R3283:1
2 Chronicles 5:3
In the feast -- The Jewish New Year Feast held in

connection with the Great Day of Atonement. R3282:6
The seventh month -- The Atonement Day sacrifices
probably having already been made in the Tabernacle.
R3282:6
2 Chronicles 5:5
They brought up -- Illustrating the bringing of the

members of the Body of Christ from the Tabernacle or earthly
condition to the heavenly or Temple condition. R3284:1
The ark -- Typifying the divine covenant with Abraham,
the fulfillment of which centers in Christ. R3282:6
2 Chronicles 5:7
Brought in the ark -- Type of The Christ. T121

Of the cherubims -- The presence or throne of God.
R529:6*
2 Chronicles 5:10
Nothing in the ark -- The golden bowl of manna,

typifying immortality, and the budded rod, the blessing,
fruitfulness and privilege of service of antitypical Levites,
will not be needed in the future conditions of glory
represented by the Temple. R3283:2
The two tables -- Representing the Law and teaching that
Christ would meet in full all the requirements of God's perfect
Law; also that legal authority would be vested in him as the
Law-executor. T121
The Law will still be an integral part of the divine covenant.
R3283:2
2 Chronicles 5:12
The Levites -- The Levites of the future, the ancient

Worthies and others, shall chant the praises of Jehovah
throughout the earth. R4297:2
Advanced justified believers. R344:6
Only a part of the Levites composes the singers, illustrating
that only a part of the Great Company are already arrayed in
white robes. R292:5
Which were the singers -- We tarry only as mouthpieces,
priests of God, to sound the trumpet of truth until the
white-robed Levites learn to sing the song of restitution. R344:6
The altar -- The Brazen altar. R3283:2
2 Chronicles 5:13
As one -- Perfectly in harmony; the priests sounded the

keynote to the Levites but it took some time before the
harmony was perfect. R292:4
The priests reach a harmony in their trumpeting before the
glory of the Lord fills the Temple. R292:5
The Little Flock (Priests) will give the key note of their song
to the Great Company (Levites) before their glorification.
R292:5
For he is good -- Showing that the character of the song to
be taught and learned is restitution. R292:5
His mercy endureth -- That during the Millennial age man
will have the privilege of returning to God and to all that was
lost. R4297:2
For ever -- The Hebrew word signifies "to an end."
Divine mercy shall be exercised to its completeness. R3283:4
That then the house -- Typifying the glorified Christ.
R3283:5
A cloud -- The peculiar pillar of cloud which symbolized
the Lord's presence through the wilderness journey and
subsequently in connection with the Tabernacle. R3283:3
2 Chronicles 5:14
Priests could not stand -- The glorying shows the

marriage, after which fleshly priests no longer remain in the
Temple, representing that we will be no longer under the veil
of flesh. R172:5
Glory of the LORD -- Representing that the glory of the
Lord will come upon the living Temple, of which we hope to
be living stones beyond the veil. CR360:5
Filled the house -- The antitypical Temple (the Church)
must be completed before the glory of the Lord fills it.
R172:2
2 Chronicles 6
2 Chronicles 6:9
Out of thy loins -- Children are of the father, by the

mother, which was also true of Jesus' human birth. E99;
R776:5
2 Chronicles 7
2 Chronicles 7:8
The feast seven days -- The dedication of Solomon's

Temple and the descent of the Shekinah glory upon it took
place at the Feast of Tabernacles. R3509:2*
2 Chronicles 7:14
Called by my name -- Israel, signifying "The people of

God." D654
2 Chronicles 7:20
Among all nations -- And the prophecy has been literally

fulfilled. R2060:1
2 Chronicles 9
2 Chronicles 9:1
The queen of Sheba -- Presumed to have been a Negress.

The present Emperor of Abyssinia claims to be a descendant
of Solomon by this Queen. R3043:1
2 Chronicles 9:3
Of Solomon -- Type of Christ. A79; B255
2 Chronicles 9:4
Spirit in her -- It took her breath away. R3284:6
2 Chronicles 9:6
Was not told me -- "Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard,
neither hath entered into the heart of man, the things which
God hath in reservation for them that love him." (1 Cor. 2:9)
R3285:2
2 Chronicles 9:9
120 talents of gold -- Estimated at $3,000,000. R2067:5
2 Chronicles 9:17
Made a great throne -- Solomon laid aside his father's

throne, and made a unique and costly one for his own use.
R1283:1*
2 Chronicles 9:23
To hear his wisdom -- Representatives of many nations

will say, "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to
the house of the God of Jacob, and he will teach us of his
ways, and we will walk in his paths." (Isa. 2:3) R2053:1
2 Chronicles 9:30
Forty years -- Link No.26 in the chain of Bible

chronology. B50; R1980:4
Possibly typifying the harvest of the Millennial age.
R4018:2*
2 Chronicles 10
2 Chronicles 10:4
Our yoke grievous -- The best-governed people are not

always the most contented. R3384:3
2 Chronicles 10:14
With scorpions -- Whips with metal lumps on the strands.

R3384:6
2 Chronicles 10:16
All Israel went -- The one house or family of Israel. The

10 tribes which split off have been since called the "lost
tribes," not a separate house. R862:5
2 Chronicles 10:17
Rehoboam reigned over them -- Those of all Israel whose

worship of the Lord centered in Jerusalem, chiefly the tribe of
Judah from whom the promised Messiah was to come.
R3385:2,4
2 Chronicles 10:19
And Israel rebelled -- The division of the typical kingdom

393 years before the overthrow of Zedekiah corresponds to
the division of Christendom into Papacy and Protestantism in
1521 AD, when Luther was excommunicated, 393 years
before 1914, the time for the overthrow of Christendom.
R3574:1*
2 Chronicles 11
2 Chronicles 11:4
This thing is done of me -- The division of the kingdom

worked to the advantage of Judah and Benjamin, humbling
them, drawing them nearer to the Lord, more zealous of his
worship and more faithful in resisting idolatry. R2362:3
2 Chronicles 11:13
All Israel -- Represented by the one house which stumbled

at the first advent. R862:5
2 Chronicles 11:16
Came to Jerusalem -- King Rehoboam and the people of

Judah experienced a sort of religious reformation, attracting
the more religious of the two tribe kingdom. R2362:3
2 Chronicles 12
2 Chronicles 12:1
Forsook the law -- Finding himself strong in the kingdom,

Rehoboam became lax in respect to its religious conditions.
R2362:6
2 Chronicles 12:2
Against Jerusalem -- There has been discovered at

Karnak, Egypt, a splendid structure erected by the very
Shishak who conquered Rehoboam, commemorating his
victories. R3467:6
2 Chronicles 12:5
Therefore have I also left -- Teaching them the important

lesson that if the Lord let go of them they would be
swallowed up of their enemies. R2363:1
2 Chronicles 12:9
Shishak -- See comment on 2 Chron. 12:2.

Took away the treasures -- This was intended of the Lord
to teach Israel that if the Lord let go of them they would be
swallowed up of their enemies, and that he always made
obedience profitable to them in their temporal welfare.
R2363:1
2 Chronicles 12:13
Seventeen years -- Link No.27 in the chain of Bible

2 Chronicles 12:16
And Rehoboam slept -- Death is a condition of rest, of

quiet, of peaceful unconsciousness. R5059:6, R4794:2;
HG121:6
2 Chronicles 13
2 Chronicles 13:2
Three years -- Link No.28 in the chain of Bible

2 Chronicles 13:5
Covenant of salt -- Covenant of faithfulness. R4907:1
2 Chronicles 13:8
Kingdom of the LORD -- In some respects typical of the

Kingdom promised, when Messiah should reign. A248
Though the earth is now given up to the kingdom of the
Gentiles, the time was when God had a kingdom on earth.
HG47:3
Golden calves -- Probably because the people, while in
Egypt, were accustomed to the worship of the sacred bull,
Apis, of Egyptian mythology. R2325:5
2 Chronicles 14
2 Chronicles 14:2
Good and right -- In the midst of an unfavorable setting,

Asa quickly developed a loyalty to God and soundness of
judgment beneficial to his kingdom. R4724:2
We have seen children of evil parentage become nauseated by
evil and take right paths. R4724:2
2 Chronicles 14:3
Took away the altars -- Erected on various hilltops, at

which the orgies of heathendom were practiced. R3392:3
It would be improper now for the people of the United States
to decide what is false worship and abolish it or interfere with
absolute religious liberty because the people of the United
States are not God's Kingdom as was Israel. R2364:2
Brake down the images -- Asa did much to abolish
idolatry in his kingdom and to sway the minds of the people
to the reverence and obedience of Almighty God. R4724:3
Cut down the groves -- Accessories to the worship of Baal
and Ashtaroth by those who affected to be largely
worshippers of nature. R3392:3
2 Chronicles 14:4
Judah -- The two-tribe kingdom. R3392:1
2 Chronicles 14:5
He took away -- Such action has been misunderstood to

imply that rulers in other countries should take similar action
for the destruction of all false religions. R3392:3
It would be entirely improper for any king, governor,
president or emperor of earth today to exercise such power,
claiming divine approval. R3392:5, R2363:5, R2364:2
2 Chronicles 14:6
Built fenced cities -- Fortress cities as a protection against

attack from Egypt on the south and west, from Syria on the
north and east, and from the ten-tribe kingdom on the
immediate north. R3392:6
No war in those years -- Asa had peace for ten years,
during which time he encouraged his people and trained an
army. R4724:3
2 Chronicles 14:7
Build these cities -- Fortified cities on the extremity of his

kingdom for protection against attacks of enemies. R4724:3
We should erect fortresses of character which will be a
defense against attacks of the world, the flesh and the devil.
R4725:4, R3392:6
2 Chronicles 14:8
An army of men -- These preparations for war had the

divine approval, but in no sense indicated that we should take
a similar course, for we contend not with flesh and blood.
R3392:6
2 Chronicles 14:9
Came out against them -- To punish Asa for erecting

fortifications, etc., to bring away more spoil and to reduce the
nation again to the condition of a vassal. R3393:1
Zerah the Ethiopian -- Supposed to have been Osorkon II
of Egypt. R3392:6
2 Chronicles 14:11
Cried unto the LORD -- A perfectly proper thing for him

to do as the representative of God's chosen people; but
prayers for victory in war are improper when made by any
nation since Israel's rejection of the Lord at the time of his
crucifixion. R3393:4
Asa's faith looked up to God, realizing that with him was the
power to give or to withhold victory. R4724:3
We are to look to the Lord for victory: "For when I am weak
(in myself), then am I strong (in the Lord)." (2 Cor. 12:10)
R4725:4
We rest on thee -- Pray, trusting God's power. R5380:5*
2 Chronicles 14:12
So the LORD smote -- In the battle which followed Asa

and his army were successful. R4724:3
2 Chronicles 15
2 Chronicles 15:2
Asa -- Whose environments in youth had been unfavorable

but who quickly developed a loyalty to God and soundness of
judgment beneficial to his kingdom. R4724:2
The LORD Is with you -- They had all done well and
faithfully and therefore God's blessing was with them.
R4724:5
While ye be with him -- The continuance of divine
blessing would depend upon their faithfulness to God and to
the requirements of his Law. R4724:5
If ye forsake him -- The hour of victory is more dangerous
than the hour of distress; the heart is more apt to be proud and
feel its own importance. The divine warning helped Asa and
his people take a firmer stand for righteousness. R4724:5
Nor should a great victory elate us and make us careless and
self-sufficient. R4725:4
2 Chronicles 15:3
Israel -- The ten tribes. R5733:3
2 Chronicles 15:4
He was found of them -- The Lord helped Israel

proportionately as they at any time had turned to him.
R5733:3
Reveals God's care over his people when they seek him.
R5733:5
2 Chronicles 15:7
Be ye strong therefore -- Asa had manifested a disposition

in harmony with God and now had this encouraging message.
R5733:3
Work shall be rewarded -- God's promise to Israel was
his divine blessing of peace and earthly prosperity in
proportion to their loyalty to him. R4725:1
Contrariwise, spiritual Israel is assured of tribulation, hatred,
opposition and suffering in the world, but with the peace of
God and a spiritual reward. R4725:1
2 Chronicles 15:8
Abominable idols -- No idolatry was thenceforth permitted

in the kingdom under penalty of death. R4724:6
We should put away all idolatry of money, fame, honor of
men, and do the will of the Lord from the heart. R4725:4
Renewed the altar -- Today, proportionately as creed
idols and their worship would cease, the repair of the true
altar of God would progress and many would rejoice to
present their bodies living sacrifices. (Rom. 12:1, 2)
R5734:1
As the Bible comes to be rightly understood, the unscriptural
follies of the creeds will be appreciated. R5734:1
2 Chronicles 15:9
Out of Israel -- Many of the ten-tribe kingdom who were

piously inclined and still respected God and his promises
were glad to leave their king and ally themselves with the
tribe of Judah, where the great God was worshipped and they
were known as "Jews." R5733:3, R2380:2, R2084:6
God grants blessings to those who humble themselves and are
obedient. R2380:2
2 Chronicles 15:10
They gathered themselves -- A great convention was

held--a holiness convention. R2363:5
2 Chronicles 15:12
Entered into a covenant -- A great national awakening

along religious lines. R5733:5
Such a company of consecrated covenanters, enlightened as
we are today, would be a mighty force, a mighty power.
R5734:4
2 Chronicles 15:15
Lord gave them rest -- The Lord's blessing continued with

the kingdom of Judah. R4724:6
2 Chronicles 15:17
Were not taken away -- It is not sufficient that we

outwardly acknowledge the Lord to be our God; we must also
be zealous in serving his cause. R2363:3
The heart of Asa was perfect -- Asa was not serving the
Lord because it would be the most profitable course for
himself and for the nation but from a heart that was in
harmony with God. R2363:3
Perfection of heart in the Lord's consecrated people of the
Gospel age means a great deal more--a full consecration in
thought, word and deed. R2364:4
2 Chronicles 16
2 Chronicles 16:9
Eyes of the LORD -- The Lord's influence, his power of

knowing, whatever the means. R5634:2
His divine wisdom. SM623:1
Let your child feel that your eye and God's is ever upon him,
just as we feel that God's eye is upon us. R1097:5*
The whole earth -- This does not mean that God
personally beholds every individual act of every person on
earth, but that he takes cognizance of matters throughout the
world by means of his power, his agencies. R5634:2
2 Chronicles 16:10
Put him in a prison -- The statement that his heart was

right before God does not signify that he was always right.
R2364:3
2 Chronicles 16:12
Diseased in his feet -- His sickness was a punishment for

his sin according to the Israelitish covenant with God.
R2029:2
God has not promised to keep spiritual Israel free from
sickness, pain and trouble. R2364:5
Not to the LORD -- Who had entered into covenant
relationship with the Jews to bless them physically if faithful
to him. R2364:4
His heart should have repented and turned toward God, but
instead he turned to the physicians. R2029:2
To the physicians -- Enchanters, magicians, black-art
doctors using Satanic powers. R2364:5
There is no intimation here that it would be wrong to make
use of bona-fide medical skill and aid today. R2364:5
2 Chronicles 16:13
One and fortieth year -- Link No.29 in the chain of Bible

2 Chronicles 17
2 Chronicles 17:1
Jehoshaphat his son -- Who had the great advantage that

his parents were Godly people. R4730:1
Reigned -- While Ahab was king of Israel Jehoshaphat
succeeded to the throne of Judah. R4730:1
Against Israel -- The iniquity and idolatry of Israel reacted
favorably by driving the most saintly characters of all the
tribes to Judah, including the priests and Levites who were
still loyal to God. R4730:1
2 Chronicles 17:2
Set garrisons -- He fortified its various boundaries,

especially toward the land of Israel, Judah's nearest neighbor.
R4730:2
2 Chronicles 17:3
Was with Jehoshaphat -- Jehoshaphat's fidelity to the

Lord was rewarded with prosperity for his kingdom. R4730:2
Does not mean that all prosperous persons and nations are in
divine fellowship. R4730:2
Of his father David -- Copying after David's earliest
course of devotion to the Lord. R2365:1
2 Chronicles 17:5
He had riches -- Prosperity is not always a sign of divine

favor, but to Jehoshaphat and his kingdom it was because
Judah still represented God's chosen nation in a special
manner. R4730:3
2 Chronicles 17:6
Heart was lifted up -- Not in pride and self-adulation, but

with encouragement, as recognizing the fulfillment of the
divine promises in the blessings enjoyed. R2365:1
Ways of the LORD -- As Ahab exceeded his father Omri
as an evil-doer, so Jehoshaphat exceeded his father Asa as an
upholder of the divine Law. R4730:2
The high places -- The young king began a general
crusade against every idolatrous place and custom in the
kingdom. R4730:2
2 Chronicles 17:7
Teach in the cities -- Perceiving the necessity of

knowledge as a basis for faith, the king instituted a general
system of instruction in the Word of the Lord throughout his
kingdom. R2365:2
In proportion as the Lord's people are intimately acquainted
with his Word, they are made free from earthly affairs and
realize their obligations to the King of kings. R2365:3
2 Chronicles 17:10
Fear of the LORD -- The world recognizes in a general

way that there is some truth in Christianity. R2365:5
2 Chronicles 17:11
Presents, and tribute -- Neighboring nations sought

Judah's favor and paid tribute until Jehoshaphat's kingdom
was very prosperous. R4730:2
2 Chronicles 18
2 Chronicles 18:1
Joined affinity -- Ambitious to unite the two nations,

Jehoshaphat made a marriage alliance for his son with the
daughter of Ahab and Jezebel of the ten-tribe kingdom.
R3393:3
The Lord's people should be especially on guard against
associations with the ungodly. R3394:2
"Be not unequally yoked together with unbelievers" (2 Cor.
6:14) neither by marriage nor by business partnerships and
close friendships. R4730:5
With Ahab -- Jehoshaphat's most important mistake was in
affiliating with Ahab. R4730:5
The lesson to us is that we need to "keep ourselves unspotted
from the world." (Jas. 1:27) R3394:1
2 Chronicles 18:3
We will be with thee -- Out of courtesy and to cultivate

the friendship of Ahab Jehoshaphat yielded and accompanied
him, with disastrous results. R3394:2
2 Chronicles 18:22
A lying spirit -- One of the fallen angels. R2173:4
2 Chronicles 19
2 Chronicles 19:1
Jehoshaphat -- Noted as one of the best kings in the

history of Judah. R3393:3
King of Judah -- He had been reigning 20 years at the
time of the events narrated in this lesson. R3393:3
2 Chronicles 19:2
Help the ungodly -- Indicating the Lord's disapproval of

Jehoshaphat's fellowship with Ahab. R4730:6
We should be especially on guard against associations,
fellowships, matrimonial alliances, etc., with the ungodly.
R3394:2
"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the
ungodly." (Psa. 1:1). R2366:1
Wrath upon thee -- Indicated by his ignominious return
without any evidence of divine favor. R3394:2
2 Chronicles 19:3
Good things found in thee -- While reproving

Jehoshaphat, the Lord graciously mentioned approval of his
destroying idolatrous worship and of his heart seeking the
Lord. R3394:3
Taken away the groves -- He had utterly destroyed all the
groves where idolatry had been practiced. R3393:3
2 Chronicles 19:4
Went out again -- The experience led him to still greater

zeal for righteousness. He went out amongst the people and
effected a religious revival. R3394:3
Brought them back -- To a higher appreciation of the
Lord and observance of his statutes. R3394:3
2 Chronicles 19:6
Take heed what ye do -- The king had a very high sense

of justice and honor, expressing grand sentiments worthy of a
saint of this Gospel age. R3394:3
Evidence that the lesson of verse 2 was not lost upon
Jehoshaphat. R2366:1
What may the world hope for when the great King Immanuel
shall rule with superhuman knowledge and wisdom. R3394:4
Judge not for man -- The Lord's people should render to
no man less than is due him; and not only be just but
generous. R3394:4
2 Chronicles 19:7
No iniquity -- God is not the author of sin. He is just and

right, hating evil and condemning sin in every form. R870:6
2 Chronicles 19:10
Blood and blood -- The degree of murder, whether first,

second or third. R3395:1
2 Chronicles 19:11
The Levites -- The tribe especially consecrated to the

Lord's service. R3394:5
Deal courageously -- Justly. R5413:3
In the Kingdom we shall be required to render righteous and
courageous judgment. R5414:4
In doing unpleasant tasks which are necessary, but in a kindly
manner. R5414:5, R3395:4
Whoever has a duty to perform let him not fear. R5414:5,
R3395:4
LORD shall be with -- Applicable to the Jews because
they were a typical people of God. R5414:4
There is no partiality with the Creator, no class distinction,
neither high nor low, rich nor poor, noble nor peasant.
R5413:3
The good -- His whole dealing at this time is with the
Church. R5414:2
The Lord will be with the good work that his faithful people
will do. R5414:1
2 Chronicles 20
2 Chronicles 20:22
The LORD set ambushments -- Believed to be an

illustration of the time of trouble at the end of the Christian
era. Q769:2
2 Chronicles 20:31
Twenty and five years -- Link No.30 in the chain of Bible

2 Chronicles 20:37
Hast joined thyself -- In a business partnership with one

out of harmony with the Lord. R2366:2
2 Chronicles 21
2 Chronicles 21:1
Jehoshaphat slept -- Death is a condition of rest, of quiet,

of peaceful unconsciousness. R5059:6, R4794:2
2 Chronicles 21:20
Eight years -- Link No.31 in the chain of Bible

Usher gives it as a reign of four years, while the Bible says it
was eight years. B52
2 Chronicles 22
2 Chronicles 22:2
Forty and two years old -- Not 22, as in 2 Kings 8:26.

HG1O5:2
One year -- Link No.32 in the chain of Bible chronology.
B50; R1980:4
2 Chronicles 22:12
Six years -- Link No.33 in the chain of Bible chronology.

B50; R1980:4
2 Chronicles 24
2 Chronicles 24:1
Forty years -- Link No.34 in the chain of Bible

Usher reckons this as 39 years, while the Bible gives it as
forty years. B52
2 Chronicles 24:2
Jehoida the priest -- The Lord's High Priest, whose wife,

Joash's aunt, had secreted Joash as an infant. R2366:3
Joash's foster-father. R2366:6
2 Chronicles 24:5
Levites hastened it not -- Probably because the people of

Judah had come to doubt the priesthood. R2367:1, R3447:6
2 Chronicles 24:7
Broken up the house of God -- Stones had been taken for

building the temple of Baal, representing the damage done to
the true Temple during the Dark Ages. R3448:1,2
2 Chronicles 24:9
The collection -- A tax of half a shekel on each male of 20

years old and upward (See Exod. 30:11-16). R2367:1
2 Chronicles 24:10
All the people -- The remnant of the ten tribes joined in

the work. R2084:5
Rejoiced -- "The Lord loveth a cheerful (Greek, hilarious--
merry) giver." (2 Cor. 9:7) R3448:5
Cast Into the chest -- When they once see the need of
repairs and the safety of the channel the people of God will be
encouraged to do everything necessary for the
accomplishment of the work. R3448:4
2 Chronicles 24:12
Jehoiada -- Representing our High Priest, Christ. R3448:2

Repair the house -- To this end we are exhorted by the
Apostle to build one another up in the most holy faith.
R2367:4
It is our duty to keep our bodies, which are temples of the
holy Spirit, pure in thought, word and act, and to take
reasonable care of our physical systems. R2367:2
2 Chronicles 25
2 Chronicles 25:1
Twenty and nine years -- Link No.35 in the chain of Bible

2 Chronicles 25:18
Sent to Amaziah -- Even before the captivity a fellowship

had sprung up between the people of the two divisions of
Judah and Israel. R2084:5
2 Chronicles 26
2 Chronicles 26:3
Fifty and two years -- Link No.36 in the chain of Bible

2 Chronicles 26:9
Fortified them -- It was quite proper for the kings of Israel

and Judah to defend the land which the Almighty had
specially given to their nation. R4786:2
2 Chronicles 26:16
To his destruction -- "Pride goeth before destruction."

(Prov. 16:18). R4786:2
Went into the temple -- Uzziah evidently felt that God
was proud of him and would be pleased to have him enter the
Temple after the manner of the priests. R4786:2
Many successful people fall into the same error in their
approach to God. R4786:2
2 Chronicles 26:17
Valiant men -- Courageous men. King Uzziah was likely

to resent any interference. R4786:6
2 Chronicles 26:18
Not unto thee -- The great King Eternal has rules and
regulations governing all attempts to approach him. R4786:3
But to the priests -- Recognizing Jesus as the great
antitypical Priest none should intrude into the divine presence
in prayer other than through him. R4786:5
Thou hast trespassed -- If the king had good intentions
they should have guided him to a study of the divine
arrangements. Ignorance of the Law is no excuse. R4786:6
Honour from the LORD -- True honor cannot be found in
opposition to the divine arrangements. R4786:6
2 Chronicles 26:19
Leprosy -- Typifying sin. R4786:5
2 Chronicles 26:20
LORD had smitten him -- Signifying typically that

whoever with knowledge would approach God aside from his
ordained priest would come under divine sentence as a wilful
sinner. R4786:5
2 Chronicles 27
2 Chronicles 27:1
Sixteen years -- Link No.37 in the chain of Bible

2 Chronicles 28
2 Chronicles 28:1
Sixteen years - Link No.38 in the chain of Bible chronology.

B50; R1980:4
Usher incorrectly reckons this as 15 years. B52
2 Chronicles 28:27
Hezekiah his son -- King Hezekiah has a wonderful record

as a man of God; yet he was the son of a bad father who was
the son of a good father who was the son of a bad father. This
alternation illustrates that heredity has counterbalances in
nature. R4812:1
It is not necessary that we should inherit all the evil traits of
our ancestors. R2379:2
2 Chronicles 29
2 Chronicles 29:1
Hezeklah -- Signifying "strength of Jehovah."

R3462:3
Reckoned in the Lord's sight as one of the three most
acceptable kings of Judah. R3462:3
Nine and twenty years -- Link No. 39 in the chain of
Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4
2 Chronicles 29:2
That which was right -- His entire reign was one of

He was not double-minded but with his whole heart he sought
to do right, to do the Lord's will. R4812:2, R3462:3
It is supposed that Isaiah, who was related to the royal family,
was Hezekiah's tutor and helped guide him into right ways.
R2379:2
Teaches the necessity for having a positive or strong will,
rightly directed. R4812:2
2 Chronicles 29:3
In the first month -- He was already well instructed and

thoroughly consecrated to the Lord at the time of his entrance
to kingship. R2379:3
2 Chronicles 29:4
Priests -- Typical of God's saintly or sanctified people.

R4812:4
Levites -- Typical of the household of faith. R4812:4
2 Chronicles 29:5
Sanctify now yourselves -- Before the cleansing of the

Temple began the king directed the priests and Levites first to
sanctify themselves. R4812:3
No one is properly ready to serve God in any form or work
until he has come to a sanctified condition of heart. R4812:4
"Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord's house." (Isa.
52:11) R4812:4
House of the LORD -- The great King commands his
consecrated people to purify the Temple of God, which is the
Church. R4812:4
2 Chronicles 29:7
The God of Israel -- Jehovah, to whom the price was to be

paid. E449
2 Chronicles 29:16
Uncleanness -- Typical of the idols and traditions of men

in the form of venerable creeds of the past defiling the
Temple of God. R4813:4, R3463:4
2 Chronicles 29:18
We have cleansed -- If any have fallen into worldliness,

sin, worship of Mammon, etc., there should be first a
cleansing, a reformation. R3463:2
A great reformation came in the days of Luther, Melancthon
and others. R3463:4
"Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and
spirit." (2 Cor. 7:1) F409
All the vessels -- The vessels of the Lord's house must be
cleansed of all defilements--their human traditions, heathen
philosophies and superstitions. R4813:4
2 Chronicles 29:19
All the vessels -- Probably including certain brass plates

and borders which King Asa had removed from the altar and
tables for use in other places. R3462:6
2 Chronicles 29:21
Seven -- A symbol of perfection or completeness, thus

intensifying the matter. R3463:1
A sin offering -- Shadows and types of the true sacrifices
for sins by which the Lamb of God taketh away the sin of the
world. R685:4
Altar of the LORD -- Jehovah, to whom the price was
paid. E449; R685:4
2 Chronicles 29:24
An atonement -- Not the regular atonement day sacrifice,

because the proper day had passed; the sacrifices offered were
effective merely for the remainder of the year. R3463:1
The Lord's people, after a reformation, should appeal to God
for at-one-ment with him, for forgiveness of sins. R3463:2
For all Israel -- Exhibiting Hezekiah's generous spirit.
R3463:2
The whole nation seems to have come to a realization of its
low condition and need of an uplift. R3463:1
Hezekiah recognized that the divine promises were made to
all the seed of Abraham. R2379:5
2 Chronicles 29:30
Sang praises with gladness -- The work of reestablishing

the true religion was not to be accomplished in a doleful
manner. R3463:5
2 Chronicles 29:31
Thank offerings -- The Lord's truly consecrated today

rejoice to be free from the sins of the past and worship the
Lord with thank-offerings and praise. R3463:5
2 Chronicles 30
2 Chronicles 30:1
Sent to all Israel -- Isaiah's prophecy respecting the

carrying away of Israel into captivity was already in progress
and this invitation served to incite "Israelites indeed" to return
to the Lord's worship. R2380:1
2 Chronicles 30:5
Throughout all Israel -- Not only to his own kingdom of

Judah, but also to the ten tribes. R4812:5
Such a message of true fellowship to the true Israel is made
alike to all, ignoring all creeds and parties. R2380:6
2 Chronicles 30:10
They laughed -- In the northern kingdom, where idolatry

had a stronger hold, the invitation was derided by many.
R4812:5
Them to scorn -- Now, as then, the proud will stand up for
sectarianism and for its honors and dignities, and will fail to
get the divine blessing. R2381:1
2 Chronicles 30:11
Divers of Asher and -- The true, faithful Israelites were

gathered out of the ten-tribe kingdom into the two-tribe
kingdom at that early day. R2380:3
All are to be esteemed and treated as Israelites indeed who
trust in the precious blood of Christ and are consecrated to the
service of the Lord. R2380:6
Humbled themselves -- A few humble ones from almost
all sects, parties and creeds will be attracted. R2381:1
2 Chronicles 30:18
Not cleansed themselves -- Similarly, in the Church of

Christ, we find some who but imperfectly comprehend the
sanctification of life necessary to a proper participation in the
Lord's "feast of fat things." R4813:1
Prayed for them -- Let us not denounce as hypocrites
those who imperfectly comprehend sanctification of life, but
pray for them and assist them in the more excellent way.
R4813:1
2 Chronicles 30:23
With gladness -- There is no other peace or joy so

soul-satisfying as that which comes from fellowship with the
Creator through Christ in the antitypical passover. R4812:6
2 Chronicles 30:25
Came out of Israel -- The true faithful Israelites were

gathered out of the ten-tribe kingdom into the two-tribe
kingdom. R2380:3
It was the remnant of Israel and not merely of Judah that was
gathered into the Gospel age, while the remainder were
"blinded." R2380:3
All "Israelites indeed," trusting in the precious blood of
Christ, are one in Christ Jesus and are to be esteemed as
brethren. R2380:6
2 Chronicles 30:26
Great joy -- Many seek pleasure and joy but few find it.
Real pleasure is in finding the Lord and coming into
heart-harmony with him. R4812:6
2 Chronicles 31
2 Chronicles 31:1
Brake the images -- One of these idols is sectarianism;

another is money; another is lust; another, selfish ambition.
They are legion with one family name, selfishness. R2381:4
2 Chronicles 31:6
Israel and Judah -- The more religious in Ephraim

removed to Judah and identified themselves therewith. Thus
Judah eventually represented the cream of the nation.
R3464:2
God's dealings with nominal spiritual Israel are gradually
separating to the Lord an overcoming class. R3464:5
2 Chronicles 31:21
With all his heart -- Hezekiah claimed, as all should be

able to, that he walked before the Lord with a perfect heart,
with a perfect will, with thoroughly good intentions. R3588:4
2 Chronicles 32
2 Chronicles 32:2
Against Jerusalem -- The march of Sennacherib's army

meant destruction and captivity to many small cities and
towns on his route toward Jerusalem. R3581:6
2 Chronicles 32:9
Send his servants -- Although tribute was sent, he sent

three chief generals to Jerusalem to accomplish its captivity
while he remained with his army besieging Lachish. R3582:2
We cannot purchase peace with things consecrated to the
Lord--compromise the truth. So surely as the Lord's
consecrated people do this, the Lord will permit to come upon
them the very difficulties which they seek to avert. R2381:6
2 Chronicles 32:18
In the Jews' speech -- The Hebrew language was used, in

order that the people might understand their hopeless
situation; yet they remained calm. R3582:3
That were on the wall -- Some of them soldiers with bows
and arrows, spears, etc., to defend the walls. R3582:2
2 Chronicles 32:20
Prayed -- Hezekiah had undoubtedly come to deprecate

his course in ignoring the advice of Isaiah in respect to the
tribute. He was thoroughly humbled now. R3582:4
When our proudest, strongest foes seem triumphing the most,
we should lay hold on the Lord's promises with the greatest
confidence. R3582:6
Cried to heaven -- Their faith grew stronger the more the
false gods were brought into contrast with the true. R3582:4
Those most rooted and grounded are those who have been
attested trying experiences and have had occasion to call
mightily on the Lord for help. R3582:6
2 Chronicles 32:21
Sent an angel -- Probably a simoon (sandstorm) or

pestilence. R2382:1
Not necessarily a member of the angelic order of beings, but
simply a "messenger." R2382:2
The Lord could use as his angel or messenger a flame of fire,
a stroke of lightning or a breath of pestilence. R3582:5
The extremity of Hezekiah and his people became God's
opportunity. R3582:4
Which cut off -- In answer to faith and prayer, yet in full
accord with his foreknown plans. R3582:4
2 Chronicles 32:23
Presents -- In consequence of this marked deliverance of

Judah from the superior power of Assyria. R2382:5
He was magnified -- Honored, because the Lord's victory
doubtless became known as that of Hezekiah. R3582:6
2 Chronicles 32:24
In those days -- 731 BC, 125 years before the overthrow

of Zedekiah, corresponding to the date of the French
Revolution, 1789 AD, when Christendom seemed sick unto
death, 125 years before 1914. R3574:2*
Hezeklah was sick -- Evidently the sickness had somewhat
to do with his prosperity and consequent pride and with his
failure to render unto the Lord. R2382:6
He gave him a sign -- The Lord's people of the New
Creation are advised not to request signs of the Lord or to
make tests. "We walk by faith, not by sight." (2 Cor. 5:7)
R3589:1
2 Chronicles 32:25
His heart was lifted up -- Prosperity is often a

severer test of character than adversity. R2382:6
2 Chronicles 32:30
To the west side -- Typifying the founding of the various

Bible societies at the beginning of the nineteenth century.
R3574:3*
2 Chronicles 33
2 Chronicles 33:1
Was twelve years old -- If properly trained he should have

had by this time a fairly well-developed character for
When he began -- Isaiah, his supposed grandfather, having
died previously. R2386:3
To reign -- The brightest children the most precocious, are
in greatest danger if placed in positions of responsibility and
influence early in life, without experienced advisors.
R2386:6
Fifty and five years -- Link No.40 in the chain of Bible
2 Chronicles 33:2
That which was evil -- Hezekiah, though a good man, was

evidently a poor father. R3598:2, R4839:2
2 Chronicles 33:3
He built again -- Probably within 10 years of his

accession to power. R2386:6
2 Chronicles 33:6
Children to pass -- Children were sometimes offered in

sacrifice to the false deities on the outstretched arms of a
great, hollow brass image, heated by fires built underneath.
R4840:1
Son of Hinnom -- In Greek, Ge-Hinnom or Gehenna,
illustrating the Second Death. R4840:4
Used witchcraft -- It is sufficient that God warns us not to
have anything to do with occult powers. R5800:1, R265:4
A familiar spirit -- A wicked spirit, who pretended to be
able to give him superhuman wisdom and advice. R2387:2
2 Chronicles 33:9
To do worse -- More evil. Sin is constitutional

derangement. Through the fall the whole human family is
prone to sin so that it requires continual effort under the
guidance of the Lord not to go backward into sin. R3598:6
Than the heathen -- The nations. The Amalekites, the
Perizzites, the Hittites, and all those nations whom the Lord
drove out of Canaan to make room for Israel. R3598:6
A lesson for spiritual Israel: there is a continual warfare
between the flesh and the spirit and we must be continually
on guard. R3599:1
2 Chronicles 33:10
The LORD spake -- Probably through the prophets Micah

and Nahum. R2387:3
2 Chronicles 33:11
To Babylon -- The very story of the Chronicles has

been found written on clay tables. R2101:5*
2 Chronicles 33:12
Was in affliction -- The judgment of the Lord as a

punishment for sin which came upon Manasseh eventuated in
a blessing for the evil-doer, illustrating the principle that will
go into effect in the Millennial age. R3599:1
2 Chronicles 33:13
Was intreated of him -- Illustrating the mercy of God to

the truly repentant. R3599:4
Then Manasseh knew -- The clear intimation is that
previously he did not know; that his sins were largely of
ignorance. R2388:1
2 Chronicles 33:15
And he took away -- 674 BC, corresponding to the

antitypical cleansing of the sanctuary in 1846. R3574:4*
2 Chronicles 33:17
In the high places -- The evil effects of Manasseh's reign

were never thoroughly effaced before his death. R3599:4
Many of the Lord's jewels are today suffering for sins that are
past and forgiven. R3599:5
The degradations coming to the world through sin will survive
the forgiveness of their sins. R3599:5
2 Chronicles 33:19
They are written -- Showing that the prophets did not

confine themselves to oral teachings. R1145:3
2 Chronicles 33:21
Two years -- Link No.41 in the chain of Bible chronology.

B50; R1980:4
2 Chronicles 34
2 Chronicles 34:1
One and thirty years -- Link No. 42 in the chain of Bible

2 Chronicles 34:3
In the eighth year -- 651 BC, parallel to 1869 AD, when

the editor of Zion's Watch Tower first began to search the
Scriptures for the true plan of God. R3574:4*
While he was yet young -- An example of the proper
course for every young person in that the heart should be
given to the Lord in the days of youth before evil experiences
have come. R4838:5
He began to seek -- It is one thing to be well disposed and
another thing entirely to consecrate the heart to the Lord.
R2390:3
In the twelfth year -- By the time he was twenty, Josiah's
religious convictions were so deep and fixed that he dared to
begin the work of reformation. R4837:3, R3607:2
It is a great mistake to assume that children must first "sow
wild oats" before they can appreciate righteousness. R4837:6
He began to purge -- Under the Law every king of Israel
had a responsibility to oppose idolatry with violence because
the kingdom typically represented God and his reign of
righteousness. But when fleshly Israel was cast off, all such
laws were made null and void. R3607:3
With spiritual Israel each heart has its own dominion to
conquer, to clear of idols. R3607:5
2 Chronicles 34:4
Brake down the altars -- As it was with Josiah's work, so

it should be with all who present themselves to the Lord.
They should begin by breaking off their sins, destroying the
fleshly idols of the heart. R2390:5
2 Chronicles 34:5
Burnt the bones -- This work of reform had been

prophesied for him years before (1 Kings 13:1-3; 2 Kings
23:15-17). R3607:3
2 Chronicles 34:8
In the eighteenth year -- 641 BC, parallel to 1879 AD, the

date of the founding of Zion's Watch Tower. R3574:4*
2 Chronicles 34:14
Found -- In the process of the cleaning up and restoring of

the Temple services commanded by King Josiah. R3608:2
A book -- Possibly including the five books of Moses and
the book of Judges, including the original copy of
Deuteronomy written by Moses' own hand. R4850:3,
R3608:3, R2390:6
Now, in due time, the Word of God is being found, shining
with wonderful brilliancy upon the path of the just. R4851:5
Law of the LORD -- The Word of the Lord was lost
during the Dark Ages, resulting in confusion and deterioration
of spiritual vitality. His Word is found now in the sense of
being easily accessible. R3609:3
2 Chronicles 34:15
Shaphan the scribe -- His position corresponded

somewhat to the Secretary of State at the present time.
R3608:2
In the house of the LORD -- King Ahaz had caused the
manuscripts to be burned, but in God's providence one copy
of the Law was buried under a pile of stone and rubbish in
one of the rooms surrounding the Court of the Temple.
R3608:2
In one sense, the Word of the Lord is still hidden, covered
with a thick coating of false teaching and human tradition.
R3609:4
2 Chronicles 34:19
The king had heard -- Due to the long period of idolatry

preceding Josiah's work of reformation, the king may have
never heard of the divine Law up to this time. R4850:3
To the masses of the people today, God's Book is lost.
R4851:1
Words of the law -- He realized that the nation of Israel
had committed the very sins recorded in Deuteronomy 28,
and that therefore they were subject to the very penalties
therein specified. R3608:3
Rent his clothes -- The tearing of the loose outer garment
in olden times was a symbol of distress, perplexity or fear.
R3608:3
So it is with the Christian who at last discovers the true
meaning of the great law of love, and feels his shortcomings.
R2391:3
2 Chronicles 34:21
Wrath of the LORD -- Deuteronomy 28 is a statement of

the penalty due Josiah's kingdom because of idolatry
preceding his day. R4851:1
2 Chronicles 34:22
Went to Huldah -- Instead of Jeremiah or Zephaniah,

perhaps to ascertain whether she would confirm their public
prophecies of coming judgment upon the nation. R2391:1
The prophetess -- God requires faithfulness on the part of
female as well as male stewards in the use of all their talents.
R1549:4
2 Chronicles 34:24
Evil upon this place -- It was too late for any national
reformation, as it is now too late for the reformation of
Christendom. R2391:4
Curses -- Evils. R3608:5
2 Chronicles 34:27
Thine heart was tender -- Words of comfort and

consolation for the king himself. R2391:4
The Lord's promise is comforting to all those who mourn in
Zion, who are out of sympathy with evil and unrighteousness.
R2391:6
2 Chronicles 34:28
To thy grave -- Qeber, tomb, place of interment. E348

In peace -- The king, and presumably others who
manifested a similar spirit, would be preserved from the
trouble. It would not come at a time and manner as to involve
them. R4851:1, R3608:5
2 Chronicles 34:33
All the abominations -- The purging from idolatry was

still more thoroughly carried out and the work of reformation
made more deep. R4851:1
They departed not -- The majority of the Israelites were
swayed by the example of the king, without any clear moral
and religious sentiments of their own. R3608:6
2 Chronicles 35
2 Chronicles 35:1
The fourteenth day -- The full of the moon, symbol of the

Law covenant and the people under that covenant. Christ's
crucifixion at the full of the moon, and the fact that it
immediately began to wane, foreshadowed Israel's national
decline. F481
2 Chronicles 35:19
In the eighteenth year -- 641 BC, parallel to 1879 AD,

the date of the founding of Zion's Watch Tower. R3574:4*
This passover kept -- Typifying the great passover, the
resurrection of the dead in Christ in the year 1878 AD and the
passing over of the feet members of the Body since that date
at the moment of death. R3574:4*
2 Chronicles 35:20
Josiah went out -- Acting contrary to the Lord's will.

Q765:2
What a lesson to all--to mind their own business and not to
meddle in the affairs of others. Q765:2
2 Chronicles 35:22
Valley of Megiddo -- These battles were, in a sense,

typical. Di; OV268:2
2 Chronicles 35:24
And he died -- Despite the promise of 2 Kings 22:20 that

he would die in peace; indicating that the promise was
conditioned on Josiah's continued faith and obedience to the
Lord. Q765:2
2 Chronicles 36
2 Chronicles 36:5
Eleven years -- Link No.43 in the chain of Bible

2 Chronicles 36:9
Was eight years old -- An error of a copyist, should be 18

years. B53
2 Kings 24:8 says 18 years old. HG1O5:2
2 Chronicles 36:11
Reigned -- Until the overthrow of the dynasty. R3623:2

Eleven years -- Link No.44 in the chain of Bible
This reign was actually ten years, four months and nine days,
but is stated in round numbers. B48
2 Chronicles 36:13
Made him swear by God -- The taking of that oath was

the immediate cause of his downfall. R3623:2
Stiffened his neck -- A figure drawn from the stiffness of
neck of a yoke of unruly bullocks, unmanageable, self-willed,
resenting every effort to turn them in the right way. R3464:1
Representing those who break the oath of their covenant with
the Lord, thus suffering loss in every respect. R3623:3
Let us be faithful to our vow and, for the present, be
submissive to the powers that be. R3624:5
2 Chronicles 36:16
Mocked the messengers -- Referred to by Jesus in the

parable of the Wicked Husbandmen (Mark 12:3-5). R1796:1
2 Chronicles 36:17
The king -- Nebuchadnezzar. B191

Of the Chaldees -- Of Babylon. B191
He gave them all -- God foresaw the calamities which
then came upon his chosen people; he foretold them and
permitted them. R3623:5
The final overthrow of the typical kingdom is parallel to the
final overthrow of nominal Christendom. R3575:2*
2 Chronicles 36:20
Away to Babylon -- Corresponding to the captivity of the

true Church in mystic Babylon. B246; R1483:6
2 Chronicles 36:21
By the mouth of Jeremiah -- Who specifically told, not

only of the destruction of the city, but also that it would be 70
years before the return of its inhabitants. (Jer. 25:12; Jer.
29:10) R4893:1
Land had enjoyed -- The land did not enjoy her sabbaths
while they dwelt upon it. (Lev. 26:34,43) HG59:2
During this time the 70 years of rest were accomplished for
the land, but the return feature of the Jubilee was neglected
until the antitype in 1874. R4779:5*
The Jews were not forced to keep their sabbaths while in
Babylon, but the land was forced to keep these sabbaths while
the Jews were in Babylon. R4933:1; Q381:5
Her sabbaths -- The sabbath system (the seventh day and
fiftieth day, the seventh year and fiftieth year) was a
connected whole. R2534:3
Lay desolate -- "Without an inhabitant." (Jer. 44:2)
HG47:2
Not 70 years captivity, but 70 years desolation. R3624:1,
R1372:5, R1976:4
The time of the 70 years desolation of the land began in 606
BC with the carrying away of Zedekiah, not with his father's
captivity 11 years previous. R5721:2, R3624:1
The date 606 BC marks the date of the beginning of the
"Times of the Gentiles," the final conclusive punishment of
"seven times" visited upon the Jewish people. A literal
"time," or year, is 12 months of 30 days each; seven "times"
would be 2520 days, representing 2520 actual years, ending
in 1914. B89; R5721:2; Q356:2
We cannot make 70 years of desolation of the land into 51
years desolation for the sake of harmony with Ptolemy. We
reject all of Ptolemy's Canon back of the first year of Cyrus,
536 BC. R3437:3
She kept sabbath -- There is no record of Israel's keeping
the Jubilees and the Lord here declares that they were
neglected. R3624:1
God declared that their observance of the year sabbaths and
jubilees was unsatisfactory to him, and he gave them all their
jubilees at once. OVI00:T
To fulfil -- The 70 years desolation of the land of Israel,
accomplished by Nebuchadnezzar, fulfilled the entire number
of typical jubilee years divinely foreordained. R4779:1*,
R3624:2; OV100:1; PD48/59
Marking: (1) The beginning of the Great Jubilee cycle; (2) the
close of God's typical kingdom; and (3) the beginning of the
Times of the Gentiles. R1372:6
Threescore and ten -- A period long enough to allow
nearly all of them to die in exile, a period in which those who
loved idolatry might go their way. R3623:5
The number 70 was put here to show us when the time should
come for the Lord to bless Israel and the whole world.
Q382:T
These 70 years represent 19 Jubilees imperfectly observed in
the period of 950 years from the time the Jews entered
Canaan until 19 years previous to the desolation of the land,
and 51 additional Jubilees of 49 years each, 2499 years from
the observance of the last Jubilee to earth's Great Jubilee, the
Times of Restitution of all things, October 1874. B192,
B195; R1493:2, R3624:4; OV88:1
2 Chronicles 36:22
First year of Cyrus -- The year 536 BC, a date well

established in secular history. The 70 years of desolation of
which this is the end is therefore link No.45 in the chain of
Bible chronology. The Bible chronology does not go beyond
this point at which secular history becomes reliable. B51;
R1980:5; B80; HG46:5
The year 536 BC corresponds to 1309 AD, the year when the
Papal residence was transferred from Rome to Avignon,
marking the first favorable condition for the liberation of the
truth from bondage to Papacy (typified by Babylon).
R3577:2*
Like every other feature of God's plan, the deliverance of
Israel from Babylon was promptly on time. R1483:3
He made a proclamation -- The prophet had said that
Cyrus would let Israel go, and God had to bend his will until
he was in harmony with that prophecy. HG62:2
2 Chronicles 36:23
Thus saith Cyrus -- Signifying "sun" or "brightness" and

representing the deliverance of spiritual Israel out of Babylon
the Great by the bright shining of the Sun of Righteousness.
R1483:6
God had marked him out by the prophet Isaiah for this very
purpose, calling him by name and specifying the work he was
to do (Isa. 44:24, 28; Isa. 45:1-6). R1483:3
Who is there -- Only a few, about 50,000, learned the
lessons which their fathers refused to learn and accepted the
offer to return. R3623:6
The remainder of the nation had become so comfortably
settled in Babylon, socially and financially, that their interests
in these things outweighed their faith in the Abrahamic
promise. R3648:3
Let him go up -- Not as masters of the land, but as
servants of Cyrus and his successors. R1483:5
Ezra
General
The books of Ezra and Nehemiah are historical; they take
up the history of Israel where it was laid down by the scribes
who wrote the books of Chronicles. Ezra, the writer of the
book bearing his name, was a scribe, or educated man, whose
genealogy is traced back through the priesthood to Aaron.
Ezra was not amongst those who went up first to Jerusalem
under the proclamation of Cyrus; indeed he was probably not
born for a considerable time after that notable event. The
record of the first six chapters of Ezra covers a period of 20
years; and then an interval of about 50 years transpired before
the events recorded in the seventh chapter. The history of the
return from captivity and the experiences of the people in
connection with the rebuilding of the Temple Ezra probably
got from the records of the scribes at Jerusalem. R2501:9:1
The events of this lesson are located at the close of the 70
years desolation of the land of Israel and of the captivity of
the people of Israel in Babylon. The cause of this long exile
and this utter desolation of their land is stated to be their
failure to let their land enjoy its Sabbaths. Although the
people were negligent and only partially observed this
requirement God did not permit their indifference to mar his
typical prophecy, but turned even this circumstance to make
the prediction more emphatic. And not only had Israel
neglected the typical Jubilees, but they also had lapsed into
idolatry and had polluted the house of the Lord. It is pleasing
to note that in the land of their captivity Israel (with some
exceptions) were reclaimed from idolatry so thoroughly as
never to return to it again; and then, without the Temple and
its services, they learned to appreciate what was left to them
still--the Word of God and the teaching and counsel of some
of the faithful ones among them. R1483:2
Ezra and Nehemiah and the people regarded themselves
as Israel, including all 12 tribes, proving that the two sticks
(representing the divided people--Ezek. 37:16, 20) had
become reunited in Babylon before their return from the
Babylonian captivity. R2084:4,6; C294; B206
We suggest a careful reading of Jer. 25:12; Jer. 29:10
and 2 Chron. 36:22, 23 to establish the fact that the 70 years
related to the desolation of the city of Jerusalem and of their
land, and not merely to the captivity of the people. Many in
applying this have started the 70 years from the beginning of
the first captivity, and thus are 20 years out of the way.
R4893:1
Psalm 126 seems to picture the returning of the Jewish
exiles from the Babylonish captivity. We are interested in
this narrative sympathetically, but we have greater interest
because spiritual Israel in captivity has been waiting for the
glorious deliverance to be brought about by Immanuel, the
Deliverer greater than Cyrus. R3643:1 The narratives of the
building of the Temple as mere narratives of history, would
be of little interest or importance to us were it not for the fact
of its typical character. In the light of the teachings of the
apostles we see that the antitype of that Temple was the one
true Church of the living God (explanation follows). R1484:1
We have a parallel between Ezra's commission in 467 BC
and Wycliffe's acts in 1378 AD. Ezra did for the literal
Temple what Wycliffe did by his doctrinal reforms for the
spiritual Temple. R3575:5*, charts, R3576*, R3578* This
work of opening up the truth and examining and appreciating
its beauty is being accomplished. We thank God for the
privilege of being engaged with others in this blessed work of
bringing the golden vessels of the Lord's house (precious
truths) back from the captivity of (symbolic) Babylon the
Great and replacing them in the Sanctuary. C120
Ezra 1
Ezra 1:1
First year of Cyrus -- Not his first year as king of Persia,

but his first year as king of both Persia and Babylon, the year
536 BC. R3642:2
It was the custom to date events according to the period of the
reigning king. R5141:2
Cyrus succeeded Darius the Mede. R2509:3, R4893:2
Corresponding (1845 years later) to 1309 AD, the beginning
of the "Babylonian Captivity" of the Papacy at Avignon,
generally recognized as the foundation of the Reformation.
R3578 2*
Avignon marked the first favorable condition for the
liberation of the truth, long in bondage to Papacy. R3577:2*
Deliverance of fleshly Israel by Cyrus, whose name signifies
"sun" or "brightness," represents the deliverance of spiritual
Israel out of "Babylon the Great" by the bright shining of the
Sun of Righteousness, the great Deliverer. R1483:6
The great Deliverer is the antitypical Cyrus. Soon he will go
forth to victory and establish his Kingdom under the whole
heavens. OV177:1
The 70 years of desolation of the land represent the 70 Jubilee
cycles appointed to them. We are now living in the time of
their fulfillment. R3643:1
Word of the LORD -- The Lord's word, at the mouth of
Jeremiah, told of the return of the Israelites from captivity
after 70 years (Jer. 25:12; Jer 29:10). R4892:6
Stirred up the spirit -- Probably Daniel was the one the
Lord used to call his attention to the Scriptural predictions
marking Cyrus as the divine agent, even referring to him by
name (Isa. 44:26, 28; Isa. 45:1-5). R2509:3, R3642:3
Possibly he reflected that by such a course he would firmly
establish himself in the good will of the Israelites, few of
whom would avail themselves of his generous offer to return.
R2509:5
Possibly by the Lord putting it into his mind that it would be a
great convenience to have Jerusalem as a friendly way-station
between his capital and Egypt. R2509:5
Similarly, spiritual Israel in captivity in Babylon has been
long waiting for the glorious deliverance by Immanuel, the
greater than Cyrus. R3643:2, R1483:6
Made a proclamation -- Not the "commandment" of Dan.
9:25, which was in the 20th year of Artaxerxes to Nehemiah.
B67
It was not an expulsion of the Israelites, but merely the liberty
to return with the king's approval. R2509:5
Not only for the Jews. He did the same for the people of
other nations exiled in Babylon. R4893:2
In antitype, the proclamation of liberty for the Lord's people
to go forth from Babylon has not been generally responded to.
R3643:2
Ezra 1:2
Cyrus -- Plutarch declares that "in wisdom, virtue and

magnanimity he seems to have surpassed all kings." R4893:1
God of heaven -- Might seem to imply that Cyrus was a
believer in and a servant of the true God, but heathen kings at
that time recognized the gods of the various countries which
they governed, for political reasons. R3642:3
Charged me -- Cyrus was named by the prophet Isaiah in
advance, and called "God's Shepherd." (Isa. 44:28) R4893:1
To build him an house -- Though without the Temple,
they had learned to appreciate the word of God; the forms of
worship giving place to the more real heart-worship of the
one true God. R1483:3
At Jerusalem -- A journey nearly 800 miles, taking about
four months. R3648:6
Ezra 1:3
Of all his people -- Of the whole twelve tribes. C294

Does not limit to the members of Judah and Benjamin the
liberty to return. R1341:3
Let him go -- In reverence to God Cyrus gave liberty to the
captives of Israel to return from Babylonian captivity.
R2541:3
Not as masters of the land, but as servants of Cyrus and his

successors. They were not to possess the land as an
independent kingdom until their Messiah should come (Ezek.
21:25-27). R1483:5
A secondary application is to Israel's liberty to return from
their captivity in Christendom to divine favor, and to
Palestine. R4892:2
And build the house -- Cyrus' order was to build the house
of the Lord, the Temple and its court wall. But there was
another decree, granted to Nehemiah in the 20th year of
Artaxerxes, to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, which at that
time were still unrepaired (Neh. 2:3-8; Neh. 6:15; Neh.
7:1). B67
Ezra 1:4
And whosoever -- All Israelites of all the tribes then

captives. B206; C294
In any place -- World-wide, as was Cyrus' dominion.
R1341:3
Where he sojourneth -- Unprepared for the journey.
R4893:2
Help him -- He encouraged all the people of Babylon to
help. R3642:5
Ezra 1:5
And the Levites -- It was not only the chiefs of Judah and
Benjamin who responded. C294
With all them -- The very choicest of all Israel, out of all
tribes, numbering in all not quite fifty thousand. R2510:1,
R5732:6; C294
Whose spirit God had raised -- Israelites indeed, in
whose hearts burned faith in God and in the great Abrahamic
promise, who, like Simeon, were "waiting for the consolation
of Israel." (Luke 2:25) R3642:6, R1341:3
Similarly, of the Lord's people in Babylon some have heard,
some have stepped out. No one should be urged to come out
of Babylon if he loves the advantages of Babylon or if he
does not come out willingly and joyfully. R3643:4
Ezra 1:6
Strengthened their hands -- With presents; implying that

many of those returning were of the poorer class, to whom
this would be an encouraging indication of divine providence.
R2510:2
As the Apostle explains in respect to the elect Church, not
many of them are great, wise, learned or noble according to
this world (1 Cor. 1:26). R3648:3
Ezra 1:7
King brought forth -- He provided liberally, sending a

troop of 1000 for the protection of the emigrants. R3642:5
The generosity of Cyrus was manifested in his sending back
the precious vessels of the Temple. R2510:2, R3642:5
The vessels -- Typifying the precious truths carried captive
to mystic Babylon. C120, R2510:5, R483:6
Our antitypical Cyrus, our present Lord, has permitted us to
bring back the golden vessels, the golden truths, so long
misapplied and misused in Babylon. R3643:4; C120
Ezra 1:11
Sheshbazzar -- Or Zerubbabel, which means "born in

Babylon." He was of the royal family of David and Solomon,
appointed governor of the colony. R2510:2
From Babylon -- Type of mystic Babylon. R2372:3;
C120
Unto Jerusalem -- Journey of nearly 800 miles. They
must have been traveling about four months. R3648:6
Ezra 2
Ezra 2:1
The children -- Only about 50,000; but they had learned

well the lesson which their fathers refused to learn, to shun
idolatry. R3623:6
Came again -- From the day of the return, we have no
record of further idolatry in Jerusalem and Judah. R3623:6,
R4893:4, R1483:3
Jerusalem and Judah -- God represented this union
through (Ezekiel 37:15-28) by two sticks, joined together to
show that the exiles of Israel were to unite with the captives
of Judah. R4893:5
Ezra 2:2
The people of Israel -- From all twelve tribes. R2084:6
Ezra 2:64
The whole congregation -- Since scarcely any of the Jews

living in Babylon at this time had ever seen Palestine, those
returning were a choice 50,000; Israelites indeed. R3642:6
Supposedly about 35,000 from Judah, Benjamin and Levi;
and about 11,000 from the other nine tribes. R3649:3
42,360 -- The great mass, settled in business and family
arrangements, were loath to leave. So, Jews returning today
are primarily poor and from lands of persecution;
comparatively few from America, where they are prospering.
R3642:6, R2509:6
Ezra 2:65
200 singing men -- Going forth to the sound of joyous

music, in harmony with Isa. 48:20,21. R4893:4, R3643:1
No one should be urged to come out of Babylon; if he does
not come out willingly and joyfully let him stay in Babylon.
R3643:4
And singing women -- Israelites left Babylon with great
joy and rejoicing; so we, free from mystic Babylon, rejoice
exceedingly and would not go back. R3643:4
Ezra 2:69
Gave after their ability -- Voluntarily, about $400,000:

one-third by those who remained in Babylon, one-third by the
few wealthy of the returned; and one-third by the mass of the
people. There is a great blessing in voluntary giving.
R2511:2
The mass of the people contributing an average of about $3
each. R2511:2
Ezra 2:70
And all Israel -- Remnants of the whole twelve tribes, no

more a divided nation. B206
In their cities -- Occupied only a small district in
Palestine. R3649:3
Ezra 3
Ezra 3:1
Children of Israel -- Not just Jews (of the two tribes).

R2124:4
God had sifted the nation; from all the tribes he had the jewel
class, the very best and most loyal of all the seed of Abraham.
Similarly, the Lord now proves his people, selecting his
jewels. R3648:3
Gathered -- Religious sentiment stirred them to prepare
for offering formal worship. R4894:1
Ezra 3:2
Builded the altar -- Now constituting themselves a

church. The chief concern of the leaders was to develop their
religious life. This policy of exclusiveness saved Judaism.
R4893:5*
Believed to have been the same spot upon which Abraham
offered his son Isaac (Gen. 22:3-13); subsequently the
threshing floor of Araunah, where David offered acceptable
sacrifice to the Lord which stayed the plague. (2 Sam. 24:21-25)
R2510:6, R4894:1
Their first work was the building of the altar. R2510:3
The first step of approach to God is a recognition of the great
sacrifice which the altar typically represented. R2510:3
Vain are all the approaches to God which recognize not as
their basis the sin-offering which God himself provided--"the
ransom for all." R2510:3
To offer - By making a groove or trench in the rock to
conduct the blood of the slain animals by a natural drain into
the valley of Jehoshaphat. R2510:6
Offerings thereon -- The beasts slain there were types of
the great ransom sacrifice; and their blood, which drained into
Jehoshaphat, the valley of graves, symbolizes the blood of the
Lamb of God, providing a fountain of life for the dead world
of mankind. R2510:6
Ezra 3:3
Set the altar -- Upon the "rock of the dome," the top of
Mt. Zion, picturing Jesus, the rock of our salvation. R3649:6
Fear was upon them -- Their journey ended, they found
still greater discouragements: ruins, desolation, disorder, a
wilderness--which tried their faith and zeal. R3648:6
The spiritual Israelites have similar trying experiences, which
will work out to advantage by perseverance in faith, love and
zeal. R3648:6
Ezra 3:4
Feast of tabernacles -- A time of special rejoicing; and

evidences of returning divine favor added to its joys.
R2511:1
Ezra 3:5
A freewill offering -- There is a great blessing in giving,

and those who do not learn to give deprive themselves of a
great spiritual grace. "The Lord loveth a cheerful (willing)
giver." (2 Cor. 9:7) R2511:2
Ezra 3:6
First day . . . seventh month -- They began their public

worship of Jehovah very speedily after their arrival (in July or
August), probably about the beginning of their "new year,"
October. R2510:3
Ezra 3:8
The second year -- After establishing reasonable living

conditions, they promptly turned to the rebuilding of the
Temple, which speaks well of their spiritual condition.
R3649:1
Ezra 3:10
Foundation of the temple -- Antitype is the one true

Church, a spiritual Temple, built up with living stones, of
which Jesus Christ is the chief cornerstone. R1484:1
Jesus Christ became the foundation of this spiritual house
when he gave his life a ransom. R1484:1
The Church is, in one sense, regarded as the Temple of God
now. R1484:4
Foundations of our Temple were laid at Pentecost, also under
unfavorable conditions. R3649:5
The rebuilding of the Temple after captivity in Babylon
prefigured the rebuilding of the Church after captivity in
Babylon the Great, in the great Reformation. R1484:4
The "Babylonian Captivity" in Avignon in 1309 was the
foundation of the Reformation. R3578:5
Priests ... with trumpets -- Making a joyful noise before
the Lord, representing the faith and confidence of the people
in the precious promises associated with the Temple.
R3649:1
Levites ... to praise -- Not a command for the selection of
trained choirs; but, contrariwise, typifying that none can offer
acceptable praise who are not of the priestly tribe, "the
household of faith." R2511:6
Ezra 3:11
They sang together -- Typified the songs and melodies of

our hearts, expressing thankfulness and gratitude to the Lord.
R2511:5
All spiritual Israelites who are in the right attitude of heart
toward the Lord are full of songs of gratitude and praise,
although not always audibly. R3649:2
All who realize the importance of the redemptive work of
Christ rejoice and praise the Lord. R1484:1
Only man, of all earthly creatures, has been given the power
of song; how appropriate that he use this power to praise the
King of kings. R2511:3
The people shouted -- All the tribes, praising God as they
laid the foundation of the Temple. Suggests to us how much
more the spiritual Israelites, who have returned from mystic
Babylon, should shout and sing the praises of our King.
R3649:2
With a great shout -- The enthusiasm of the people for the
worship of the true God is noted. R4894:1
Ezra 3:12
Wept -- So today, among spiritual Israelites who have

returned from Babylon, there are some who weep for the past
when they should be rejoicing for the future. R3649:3
Perhaps in appreciation of the fact that the Temple they were
founding would be much less glorious than Solomon's.
R4894:2
With a loud voice -- Lessons we learn from past
experiences, even from adverse experiences, while they
should be kept in memory, need not be mourned over by
spiritual Israelites. R3649:3, R2511:6
Shouted aloud for joy -- Full of faith and hope, they were
also filled with joy in prospect of still further favors from the
Lord, in harmony with his glorious promises. R3649:2
All who possess the same spiritual vision rejoice in the
greater work the Lord is accomplishing, in the preparation of
"living stones" for the glorious Temple of God. R3649:6
Ezra 3:13
Not discern the noise -- Shouts were discordant. Those

who looked forward in hope shouted for joy and those who
looked backward wept. So among spiritual Israelites, some
weep for the past when they should be rejoicing for the
future. R3649:3
Ezra 4
Ezra 4:1
The temple -- Type of the true Temple of God, "Which

temple ye are." (1 Cor. 3:17) R3649:5, R1484:1
Ezra 4:2
Let us -- In our Lord's day, 566 years later, they were

known as the Samaritans. R3649:4
They had been unneighborly up to this time. R3649:4
There are numerous "Samaritans" today in churches of all
denominations, who have neither part nor lot in this great
Temple and its construction, even though some are "good
Samaritans," ready to relieve the sick and indigent. R3649:6
Build with you -- You Israelites, representing the
spirit-begotten ones, the Israelites indeed. R3649:6
One of the great difficulties with Christianity today is that it
has admitted the "people of the land" and recognized them as
Christians. R2512:2
We seek your God -- Various nationalities that had settled
in Palestine had acquired some of the traditions of the land
and its religious customs. R3649:4
Ezra 4:3
Nothing to do with us -- The Jews were not at liberty to

change or amend the divine proposition, and to bring others
into the "elect" nation. R4894:4, R2512:2
Jesus, by his conduct and words, fully substantiated this
thought (Matt. 10:5). R3649:4
Realizing that, if they had a share in the work, they could
with propriety claim a share in the nature of the worship,
opening the door to laxity in religious matters and idolatry.
R2512:1
No outside, unconsecrated stones are wanted in the spiritual
Temple, and there is no place for worldly workers in this
building. R4894:5, R2512:2
As oil and water will not mix, so there cannot be any real
union between the consecrated and the unconsecrated in
respect to their religious views and the divine service.
R3650:1
The Jews still keep aloof from other religions and from
intermarriage, so that God can preserve them separate for a
future work in his plan. R4894:5
Ezra 4:4
People of the land -- Of mixed nationality, colonized by

the Assyrian and Chaldean empires to destroy patriotic
feelings and unite them with the one central government at
Babylon. R2512:1
Weakened the hands -- Many are inclined to upbraid us
now, as they upbraided the natural Israelites for refusing the
fellowship and cooperation of the Samaritans of their day.
R3649:6
Troubled them -- Did all in their power, politically and
otherwise, to hinder the Temple building. R3650:1
The work of reformation has gone steadily forward and, like
that of the typical Temple, in the midst of great opposition,
but the living stones are being prepared. R1484:4, R3650:4
Similarly, spiritual Israel is opposed by those who hate the
light because it condemns their darkness, doctrinal and
otherwise. R2512:4
Ezra 4:24
Unto the second year -- 521 BC, 1845 years (the length of
the Jewish "double") prior to 1324 AD, the time of the
publication of Marsiglio's Defensor Pacis (Defender of the
Peace), the greatest work of its time against Papacy.
R3577:5*
Reign of Darius -- Israel's enemies hired attorneys to
frustrate the Temple-building at the court of Cyrus, all
through the days of his son, Cambyses, until Darius came to
the throne. R4894:2
Darius Hystaspes, king of Persia. R3577:4*
Ezra 5
Ezra 5:2
Build the house -- After 70 years of desolation, on the

return of the Israelites from captivity (536 BC), it was rebuilt
the second time. R1297:1
Ezra 5:13
This house of God -- The Temple and its court wall; not
the wall of the city. B67
Ezra 5:14
And the vessels -- Precious truths of God's Word. C120

Temple of Babylon -- Type of Babylon the Great. C120
Ezra 6
Ezra 6:3
The king made a decree -- The decree of Cyrus, though

issued 536 BC, did not "go forth" (Dan. 9:25) until the days
of Ezra and Nehemiah, but lay concealed in the treasure
house of the kings of Persia. HG105:5
Let the house -- The Temple and its court wall; not the
wall of the city. B67
Threescore cubits -- Larger dimensions than that of
Solomon, but inferior to it in ornamentation. R1495:3
Ezra 6:5
And silver vessels -- Silver is a general symbol of

truth. T114
Brought unto Babylon -- Symbolic of Babylon the Great.

C120
Be restored -- This restoration is now taking place. C120
Unto the temple -- Type of the cleansed sanctuary class.
C120
Ezra 6:14
Through the prophesying -- Their mission was to

encourage Zerubbabel and all who labored, who were beset
by innumerable oppositions, difficulties, etc. R2521:2
And finished it -- Not only the rebuilding of the Temple,
but also the city wall. R1495:2
And Artaxerxes -- His command went forth long after the
Temple was finished. R1495:3
Ezra 6:15
In the sixth year -- 517 BC, 1845 years (length of the

Jewish "double") prior to 1328 AD, the time of the death of
the reformer, Marsiglio. R3577:5*
Solomon's Temple had been destroyed about 90 years
previous. R1495:3
Ezra 6:16
Rest of the children -- The offering of themselves by the

"living stones" is pleasing and acceptable to God, as much by
those with few talents as by those with many. R1495:5
Kept the dedication -- A very notable event with the
people, not one of whom, probably, had seen Solomon's
Temple. R1495:3
Ezra 6:17
Offered at the dedication -- An elaborate ceremony, but

as nothing compared with that of Solomon's Temple.
Suggests consecration of the living Temple, with "living
stones" offering themselves, acceptable to God through
Christ. R1495:3
Twelve he goats -- What better evidence could we have
that all the twelve tribes were represented. R1495:6
Ezra 7
Ezra 7:1
After these things -- Nearly 75 years after the return of the

first company from Babylon. R3659:1, R4911:2
Reign of Artaxerxes -- Xerxes had been murdered by a
palace conspiracy, and his son Artaxerxes was reigning
monarch at the time Ezra undertook the expedition. R3659:1
Ezra -- A scribe of the genealogy of Aaron. His name
means "help" or "helper" (Strong's). He was not among those
who went up first under the proclamation of Cyrus. R2509:2
Ezra, Nehemiah and the people who returned from captivity
regarded themselves as Israel. R2084:6
Ezra 7:6
In the law of Moses -- Judah, probably under Ezra,

prospered more in Babylon than did many Jews in Jerusalem.
R4911:2
Ezra 7:7
Some of the children -- The Lord stirred up the love and

zeal of others in Babylon, chiefly the children of some who
had declined in the first return or were too young to go.
R3658:6
In the seventh year -- 467 BC, 1845 years prior to 1378
AD, the dawn of the Reformation, when the schism occurred
in the Papacy, two popes being on the throne at one time,
each denouncing the other as Antichrist. This was the turning
point with Wycliffe, and from this moment his activities were
devoted to the translation of the Bible and to attacks on the
fundamental error of the Papacy, the doctrine of
transubstantiation. R3578:2*
Ezra 7:13
I make a decree -- Not the "commandment" of Dan. 9:25,

which was in the 20th year of Artaxerxes to Nehemiah. B67
Ezra 7:19
The vessels -- Bringing with him the vessels (symbol of

truths). Ezra did for the literal Temple what Wycliffe, by his
doctrinal reforms, did for the spiritual Temple. R3575:6*
Ezra 7:20
For the house-- The Temple and its court wall. B67
Ezra 7:22
Hundred talents of silver -- The donations of gold and

silver totaled a little more than $2,000,000. R4911:3
Ezra 8
Ezra 8:1
Them that went up -- About 1700, probably including the

families of some of them; all volunteers. R3659:2
We see spiritual Israelites coming forward from Babylon
with great zeal for the Lord and his cause. R3659:3
Ezra 8:21
Proclaimed a fast -- Fasting is not the weakening of the

body by absolute abstention from food, but rather a
disciplining of the body by abstaining from delicacies,
relishes, etc. R3659:6
The first condition enjoined on the assembly was a day of
fasting and prayer. R3659:2
Awakening in them the thought that the whole expedition was
based upon faith in the Lord and in his promises. R3659:4
We commend fasting (self-denial) in reasonable and proper
ways. R3659:5
With the consecrated Christian self-denial is not the incident
of a day, but the course of a life. R3659:6
Fasting, prayer and an earnest desire to know and to do God's
will are more efficacious for good than large donations of
money. R4911:5
To seek of him -- The very experience of realizing danger
is a blessing if it will but lead us nearer to the Lord. R3659:5
In vain would any attempt to serve the Lord and yet neglect to
humble himself before him, requesting guidance and blessing.
R4911:3,5
Ezra 8:22
I was ashamed -- Ezra felt that now to ask the king for
protection would have implied at least their doubt of the favor
of God or of his ability to protect them. R3659:4
Spoken unto the king -- Relying on the Lord's promises of
temporal blessings to Israel, he had almost boasted of this to
the king. R3659:4
Hand of our God -- We, as Spiritual Israelites, are not
guaranteed earthly blessings or earthly protection, but we
have a still higher guarantee, that whatever shall befall us, the
Lord will overrule it for good. R3659:5
Ezra 8:23
Fasted and besought our God -- Could be applied in full

measure to the spiritual Israelites for protection and help
along the narrow way. R3659:6
Intreated of us -- The Lord assures us in advance that all
such petitions are granted. R3659:6
Ezra 8:25
Weighed unto them -- Thus our Lord, for our journey to

the heavenly kingdom, gives to everyone of his followers
pounds and talents for which they must ultimately give
account. R3660:1
Estimated at between two and three million dollars.
R3659:3
Silver, and the gold -- The king furnished the money and
gave the necessary authority. R3659:1
Ezra 8:29
And keep them -- An illustration of our need to watch

over and keep the spiritual gifts and treasures committed to
us. R3660:2
Ezra 9
Ezra 9:1
Have not separated -- Similarly amongst Protestants,

some, after having come out of Babylon's Roman
Catholicism, become involved in worldly alliances, sects and
parties properly termed Babylonish-Churchianity, contrary to
the divine injunction. R3660:5
From the people -- The spiritual Israelite is directed to be
not unequally yoked together with unbelievers in marriage,
and to have as little as possible to do with the world in
general. R3660:4
Ezra 10
Ezra 10:3
Make a covenant -- Ezra magnified the Law, showing the

people that their calamities were the result of a failure to keep
the Law, and the proper course was to go back to the Law and
seek to keep it inviolate. R3660:3
Put away all the wives -- Conformity to the divine Law
would mean the breaking of family ties--the hard penalty for
breaking the Law (for natural Israelites under the Law
covenant only). R4912:1
This spirit has persisted amongst the Jews ever since, keeping
that nation and people comparatively separate and distinct
from all others. R3660:4
The spiritual Israelite is enjoined that if the unbelieving
husband or wife remain, they should, if possible, live together
in unity; but if the unbelieving one depart, let him depart (1
Cor. 7:13, 15). R3660:4
Ezra 10:8
Should be forfeited -- Ezra used more aggressive legal

prosecutions while Nehemiah, in contrast, sought to awaken
consciousness to God's Law so that each might act for
himself, heartily unto the Lord. R2531:1
Ezra 10:9
For the great rain -- In contrast with Nehemiah, who

chose pleasant seasons and accustomed occasions for
gathering the people. R2531:1
Nehemiah
General
An historical book, supervised by divine providence and
intended for the instruction and edification of God's people.
This book is sometimes recognized as the second book of
Ezra, because its narrative is the sequel to the book of Ezra.
Undoubtedly, however, Nehemiah was the writer of the major
portion of it. Portions of the book are apparently copied from
the state archives and written in the third person, while
Nehemiah evidently was the writer of the portion presented in
the first person. R2524:3
Though strictly historical, the book of Nehemiah
admirably tells the story of the soul's renewal. Chapter 1
represents conviction and confession of sin; 2, determination
to rebuild with God's grace; 3, actual rebuilding the soul's
defense in sanctification; 4, attacks upon the soul from
without; 5, assaults from within; 6, temptations of the
Adversary, disguised; 7, successful accomplishment of
spiritual work in the soul; 8, study of the Word; 9, confession
of weaknesses; 10, covenant relationship emphasized; 11,
systematizing the efforts of the godly life; 12,
acknowledgment of God in everything; 13, a sad exhibition of
the Christian's fall and renewed influence of the Spirit.
R2524:3*
Nehemiah was an Israelite of the tribe of Judah. He was
of one of those families which had not returned to Palestine
under Cyrus' decree of about ninety years previous. R1495:3
Nehemiah occupied a confidential position with Artaxerxes,
the Persian king, somewhat similar to the office held by
Mordecai under King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) the father of
Artaxerxes. His official title does not give the proper
conception of the dignity of his position. In those days, kings
needed to be continually guarded against poisons, which
could be easily mingled without detection with their liquid
refreshments. Consequently, the cupbearer was one whose
loyalty was esteemed irreproachable. They became
confidants of royalty and court advisors, really occupying the
position of Minister of State. R3662:2
Thirteen years after Ezra's company returned to Jerusalem,
Nehemiah went thither. The Jews, now considerable in
number, were despised by their neighbors, who wished to
drive them out of the land. R4912:3 The seventy years had
not been years of prosperity, but of adversity to the Israelites,
both in Jerusalem and in Babylon. Their enemies, taking
advantage of the weaknesses of Ahasuerus, who reigned
during the interim, had attacked the partially rebuilt walls and
gates of the city of Jerusalem and had wrecked the former and
burned the latter . . . and at Babylon, as we learn from the
book of Esther, a plot for the complete extermination of the
Israelites had almost succeeded but had been prevented by
divine interposition. R1496:1
The year 1391 AD corresponds with the year 454 BC,
when Nehemiah received his commission to rebuild the walls
of Jerusalem. It was in 1391 that John Huss might be said to
have received his commission to rebuild the walls of spiritual
Jerusalem, for it was in that year that he became acquainted
with the works of Wycliffe. R3575:6*
Nehemiah 1
Nehemiah 1:1
Words of Nehemiah -- A young man of the tribe of Judah; of

one of the prominent families of the Babylonian captivity. R1495:3,
R3662:2
Sometimes recognized as the second book of Ezra because its
narrative is the sequel to the book of Ezra. R2524:3
Shushan the palace -- Josephus says that Nehemiah, wealthy
and favored of the king of Persia, resided in the king's palace at
Shushan. R4912:6
Nehemiah 1:2
Hanani -- Nehemiah's brother, who had been amongst those

who went up to Jerusalem with Ezra. Having returned, Nehemiah
gained information respecting the deplorable condition of affairs at
Jerusalem. R3662:3, R2525:1, R4913:1
Nehemiah 1:3
In great affliction -- God used this trouble to raise up wealthy

and friendly brethren yet in Babylon to come to their relief.
R2525:4
Just so with spiritual Israelites. Trials and difficulties are often the
very means God employs to bring needed relief. R2525:4
Is broken down -- In spiteful retaliation by Israel's enemies for
the sending back to their homes of all foreign wives under Ezra.
R3662:3
Nehemiah 1:4
Sat down and wept -- The news made him heartsick. He had
an intensity of love for the land of promise. R3662:6
All Christians who are spiritual Israelites should have the same
spirit of love and sympathy for their brethren, and look for the
prosperity of spiritual Zion and her ultimate deliverance. R2525:3
Mourned certain days -- Not that the Lord needed urging on
the subject, but because the subject was growing on Nehemiah's
mind and heart. R1496:4
Fasted, and prayed -- For the Lord's blessing, that the promises
respecting the holy city and land might be fulfilled. This prayer is a
general outline of the sentiments he expressed for four months
without ceasing. R3662:6, R4912:1
Self-denial, fasting and prayer should be associated. It is the
fervent, earnest prayer that is effectual and that prayer is not to be
entered into with a view to changing the divine will, but rather to
bringing our hearts and minds and conduct into conformity to the
divine will. R3664:6, R1496:1
Nehemiah 1:5
O LORD God of heaven -- Acknowledgment of the divine

greatness and the relative littleness of the petitioner. R2525:5
The great -- Reminding one of the Lord's prayer,
"Our Father, which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name." (Matt.
6:9) R2525:5
That keepeth covenant -- Acknowledged that the Lord's ways
and dealings with Israel had been just and true, having before the
mind the testimonies of God's Word. R3663:3
God's dealings were in exact fulfilment of his covenant (Lev.
26:33, etc.; Deut. 4:25, etc.; Deut. 28:64). R1496:4
For them that love him -- He expressed confidence that the
Lord would keep his covenant and have mercy upon his people.
R3663:3
Nehemiah 1:6
Day and night -- He prayed after this manner for four months
before he began to have an answer. R3662:6
Of course, during all this time he attended to his duties. But this
prayer was always in his heart. R3662:6
"Men ought always to pray and not to faint" (Luke 18:1). The
things which lie close to our hearts should become our continual
prayer ... making sure they are the right things. R3662:6, R4913:1
We have sinned -- No proper prayer can be offered to the great
Creator which does not in some manner acknowledge the comer's
imperfections. Our boldness is not that of self-confidence.
R3663:3
Against thee -- Nehemiah was very open in his confession,
which is proper for all who approach the Lord; but sins and
weaknesses may be reasonably screened from the eyes of others
while we are doing our best to walk after the Spirit. R3663:4
Nehemiah 1:7
We have dealt -- He confesses the justice of the Lord's

chastisement and properly includes himself with the others of his
nation. R1496:4, R2525:5
Nehemiah 1:9
If ye turn unto me -- This turning to the Lord's promises for

forgiveness and mercy and reconciliation is proper for all--Jew or
Gentile. R3663:5
To all Israelites indeed who are in trouble for past unfaithfulness the
Lord says, "Draw nigh unto me and I will draw nigh unto you."
(Jas. 4:8) R2525:6
Will I gather them -- Claiming the promises of returned favor
(Deut 30:4, Deut. 9:29; Isa. 11:12). R1496:4
Nehemiah's prayer has not yet been fully answered, but we do see
that the Lord is ready to do this as soon as he shall have gathered
the spiritual seed to heavenly conditions. R2526:1, R3663:6
The gathering of natural Israel will not include all Jews, but such as
maintain their Abrahamic faith in the divine promises. R2526:1
Nehemiah 1:10
Whom thou hast redeemed -- Israelites indeed who transgress

can plead the Lord's promise to be merciful based upon the great
redemption sacrifice. R3663:5
Nehemiah 1:11
I beseech thee -- All who would engage in divine service require

not only zeal, but wisdom; and only those who seek it prayerfully
can be helpful as reformers amongst their brethren. R2530:3
Thine ear be attentive -- The Lord did respond to Nehemiah's
prayer by granting privileges possible at the time; but it was not
God's due time for fulfilling all the gracious promises that he had
made to that nation. His prayer will be much more than fulfilled in
accordance with the Lord's plan in due time. R3663:5, R3664:1
The prayer of thy servant -- All true Israelites. R3664:2
Prosper, I pray thee -- He resolved that he would not only pray
to the Lord, but would consecrate himself, his wealth and his
favored relationship with the king to the answering of his own
prayers. R2525:2
Gradually he was made earnest and strong enough to take an
important part in the answering of his own prayer. R1496:1
Sight of this man -- Artaxerxes, an absolute monarch, whose ill
will might be easily aroused by imagined disloyalty, the result being
Nehemiah's execution. R3664:3
Nehemiah's prayer to the Lord to grant mercy in the sight of
Artaxerxes shows he had faith in the divine power. R3664:3
The Lord's people have similar privileges in prayer at the present
time and should remember that, as in the case of Nehemiah, God
has full power to open ways and means and to shape all our earthly
affairs for us. R3664:3
The king's cupbearer -- Minister of State, confidential advisor.
R3662:3, R1495:6, R2524:6
In presenting wine to the king it was the custom for this officer to
pour out a sample for himself. From this probably originated the
title, Cup-bearer. R2524:6
That it was not impossible for Hebrews to occupy confidential and
high positions in the Persian empire is shown by such other cases as
Daniel, Esther and Mordecai. R2525:1
The Lord chooses as noble, great and learned as he can find who
have the right condition of heart. R3676:5
Nehemiah 2
Nehemiah 2:1
The month Nisan -- A delay of four months (Neh. 1:1) waiting

for a favorable opportunity to approach the king. R2525:2
The four-month delay was doubtless used by the Lord to prepare
the king to cooperate with Nehemiah's request; and so, while we
pray, the Lord not only prepares us but also the circumstances and
conditions to bring us the opportunities in the best form. R3664:6
In the twentieth year -- 454 BC, troublous times. R3574:6*,
R3578:2*
The beginning of the 70 weeks of Daniel (Dan. 9:24-27); dated by
Rollins as 454 BC. R3575:4*
A parallel date to 1391 AD when Huss carried Wycliffe's teachings
into effect. R3578:5*
Artaxerxes -- An arbitrary, self-willed, passionate king who, a
few years before, had issued an edict against Jerusalem and put a
stop to the building of its walls (Ezra 4:8-24). R2526:2*
Nehemiah 2:2
Very sore afraid -- And with good reason, because his life was
in danger. Monarchs demand smiling countenances on all
occasions. R2526:2*
Nehemiah 2:5
Thou wouldest send -- Prayers not accompanied by earnest

efforts brand themselves as insincere. R4913:1
Nehemiah 2:8
Wall of the city -- "From the going forth of the commandment

to restore and to build Jerusalem unto Messiah shall be 69 weeks"
(Dan. 9:25). Sixty-nine symbolic weeks would be 483 symbolic
days, or 483 literal years. B67
And the king -- In the year 454 BC, according to Dr. Hale and
also according to Dr. Priestlie. B67
1845 years (the length of the Jewish "double") prior to 1391 AD
when Huss, the reformer, became acquainted with the works of
Wycliffe and continued the Reformation. R3575:6*
Nehemiah 2:9
King had sent captains -- Nehemiah did not permit any spirit of
bravado to hinder his acceptance of the escort. Similarly, spiritual
Israelites are in no case to refuse reasonable safeguards, when
under the Lord's providence they are furnished. R2526:3
Horsemen with me -- It was perfectly proper for Nehemiah to
make use of this protection, just as today a Christian, while fully
trusting in God, may properly carry fire insurance. R3674:3
Nehemiah 2:11
So I came -- The preparations for the journey occupied nearly a

month, the journey itself about three months, bringing Nehemiah to
Jerusalem about July. R2526:2
Three days -- Nehemiah was a man of action. He had come to
Jerusalem for a purpose and wasted no time. R3675:2
Nehemiah 2:12
Some few men -- Some of his trusted servants. R3675:2

Neither told I any man -- Had he told of his plan, enemies
would have taken steps to interfere. R3674:6
Many of the Lord's people need to learn this lesson of
secretiveness: to be wise as serpents while harmless as doves, swift
to hear and slow to speak. R3675:1
An evil mind can put an evil construction upon the noblest words
and deeds. R3675:1
Nehemiah 2:13
Went out by night -- He wasted no time, but made a thorough

inspection of the walls and then promulgated his plan for speedy
work. R3675:2
Inspection properly precedes intelligent and profitable reformation
of any kind; no less the walls of spiritual Zion. We should first take
a full survey of our weaknesses and deficiencies in order to build up
ourselves. R2526:5
Nehemiah 2:17
Then said I unto them -- He did not begin his work by chiding
or boasting. R2526:5
Coworkers with God should work guided by the spirit of love
which is not unkind, slighting or boastful. R2526:6
See the distress -- Distress is from the Hebrew word "ra" also
rendered "evil" and "calamity." R1351:2*
Calamities or evils sent as chastisements. A125
Build up the wall -- For the security of the people, to arouse
their national spirit, to revive their hopes in the promised kingdom
of God, to afford a practical demonstration of God's favor, thus
leading to trust in other promises. R3676:2
Illustrating both the walls of spiritual Zion, the Church of the living
God, and the walls of our characters. R2526:5
Nehemiah 2:18
The hand of my God -- The proper course is to begin work

afresh with confidence, not in ourselves, but in him who called us.
R2526:6
Let us rise up and build -- The entire wall was reared in 52
days. R3675:2
Their hearts were in the work. R3675:2
Nehemiah 2:20
We his servants -- They were all to be associates and partners

in whatever blessing and honor might accrue from this service.
R2527:1
Arise and build -- Nehemiah not only prayed and labored, but
he planned that each should undertake the building of the wall
nearest his own residence. We, too, should begin our reform work
of character building at home--within ourselves. R3675:2,
R2527:1
Nehemiah 3
Nehemiah 3:1
With his brethren -- Each person of prominence and capability

should have a certain share in the work and responsibility. R2527:1
Nehemiah 3:28
Against his house -- So he would not only get credit for rapid
and good workmanship, but because he would be anxious that the
wall would be strong in the vicinity of his own house. R2527:1
So the Lord gave "to every man his work" (Mark 13:34)
represented by his talents. R2627:1
A practical illustration of such distribution of labor is the varied
work of colporteurs, pilgrims, tract distribution in the general
co-laboring with the Lord. R3675:3
Nehemiah 4
Nehemiah 4: 1
When -- The Christian finds the gates and fortresses of his

nature weak and broken down. The moment he starts to repair and
build he finds enemies within and without to hinder. R1498:5
Sanballat -- The Christian's opposition today is chiefly from the
Sanballat followers of nominal Christianity--the "mixed peoples"
who have a form of godliness without its power. R3675:4
Was wroth -- For four reasons: (1) the exclusiveness of the
Jews; (2) racial and religious differences; (3) Israelites, under divine
favor, prospered beyond themselves; and (4) the wall would
interfere with their plundering of the Jews. R2527:2
Mocked the Jews -- Opposition first took the form of sarcasm
and ridicule. Those who today are building upon the wall of Zion
must be prepared for similar sarcasm. R3675:4
Nehemiah 4:2
Revive the stones -- Precious truths. R2527:4

Gold, silver and precious stones for the erection of Zion. R2527:3
Heaps of the rubbish -- Sectarianism. R2527:4
Human tradition. R2527:3
Nehemiah 4:3
If a fox go up -- Sarcasm is one of the most successful of our

Adversary's weapons. R2527:4
Ridicule, saying that the wall was not scientifically done and would
not stand the test of "Higher Criticism." R3675:4
Nehemiah 4:6
So built we the wall -- It would be well for all the Lord's people
charged with the building of the wall of righteousness to encourage
and stimulate one another in the work all have at heart. R3675:2
The harvest work is the rebuilding of the walls of Zion, the
replacing of the doctrines of righteousness and truth overthrown by
the Adversary during the Dark Ages. R3675:4
Had a mind to work -- The people entered into the matter
spiritedly. So, in this harvest of the Gospel age, there is an
abundance of labor for all who have a mind to work. R3675:2
Nehemiah 4:7
Sanballat -- Governor of the Samaritans, a people of mixed

Jewish and heathen blood. R3675:3
Tobiah -- Governor of the Ammonites, across Jordan. R3675:3
Arabians and the Ammonites -- Illustrating how the lust of the
flesh and the eye and the pride of life conspire against the New
Creature once he begins building the wall of righteousness in his
life. R2527:3
Ashdodites -- Ashdod was a Philistine city in the South.
R3675:3
Were made up -- It is only from the time that it begins to build
that Zion is opposed by the forces of Babylon. R2527:3
They were very wroth -- Being opposed because the
fortification meant an increase of Jewish power and because the
success of the Jews in Jerusalem meant the triumph of the God of
the Jews. R3675:3
They feared that scattered Jews would become amalgamated with
those in Jerusalem if the capital were again a stronghold. R3675:4
As these enemies were wroth, so those who are engaged in the
harvest work find opposition, not only from the world, the flesh and
the devil, but also from the followers of nominal Christianity.
R3675:4
Nehemiah 4:8
Conspired -- Conspiracies of the great deceiver and his hosts

are not because injury has been done to them, but because the
progress of the truth is of itself a rebuke to all who are not of the
truth. R2527:3
Opposing influences are ready to combine to hinder the re-establishment
of the truths and principles which properly separate
the Lord's consecrated people from all others. R3675:4
To fight against -- The city would be rebuilt under unfavorable
circumstances, in troublous times (Dan. 9:25). B65
When sarcasm availed nothing, they secretly took counsel to make
an attack. R3675:5
To hinder it -- So it is with individuals who resolve to build
themselves up. They immediately find themselves beset with
enemies bent on hindering their work. R2527:2
Nehemiah 4:9
Prayer... watch -- Each of us must do as this band did--put on

the armor and watch and pray and build. R1498:5, R2527:6
Nehemiah 4:10
Judah -- Apparently the less zealous of the Israelites residing in

favorable localities nearer the Samaritans. R2527:3
Much rubbish -- Illustrating the present rubbish pile of human
tradition and falsity. R2527:3
Not able to build -- Fighting without and foes within tended to
hinder and discourage the workers. R3676:1
How many spiritual Israelites who began with great courage and
zeal have become disheartened by suggestions respecting the
difficulties and impossibilities of the work they are undertaking.
R3676:2, R2527:4
Nehemiah 4:14
Fight for your brethren -- "We ought also to lay down our
lives for the brethren." (1 John 3:16) R2528:1
Nehemiah 4:15
When our enemies -- The preparation for the conflict itself

hindered it; so those of the Lord's people who most carefully
prepare themselves with the armor of God are much less frequently
attacked than are those who neglect it. R2528:1
Nehemiah 4:16
Half of my servants -- The special guard, divided into two

parts, relieved each other at labor and at military service. R3675:5
Nehemiah 4:17
Held a weapon -- The hod-carriers were armed. Those who did

the mason work had swords at their sides. Similarly, all who labor
in the harvest work need to be armed; not, however, with carnal
weapons. "The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty
through God to the pulling down of strongholds." (2 Cor. 10:4)
R3675:5
Nehemiah 4:18
For the builders -- Typifying the reformers of the great

Reformation. R1484:4
Had his sword -- Typifying the Word of God. R1484:4
All those laboring today upon the walls of Zion need to be equipped
with the helmet of salvation, the breastplate of righteousness, the
sandals of patient endurance, the shield of faith and the sword of
the spirit. R3675:5
So must Christians maintain their armor and keep watch against the
Adversary while building themselves up in the most holy faith.
R2528:4
Nehemiah 4:20
Sound of the trumpet -- The sound of the trumpet was used to

summon the workers. The same is true today. The seventh
trumpet sounding is gathering together his saints unto him.
R3676:5
Nehemiah 4:21
So we laboured -- The work progressed under serious

difficulties which demonstrated that zeal and love were behind the
movement. R3675:5
So must the Christian maintain his defensive armor while seeking to
build up himself and others. R2528:4
Nehemiah 5
Nehemiah 5:1
A great cry -- The poor Jews had been giving all their time to
the repairing of the walls and had thus cut off their income from
other sources, and they went into debt. R4921:2
Some of those who labored on the wall were made to suffer for
their faithfulness by wealthy Jews who took advantage of their
destitution. R3676:2
Nehemiah 5:3
We have mortgaged -- Their richer brethren had made hard

contracts with them, taking away their possessions when they were
unable to pay because engaged in the Lord's service. R3676:4
Nehemiah 5:6
I was very angry -- Nehemiah was righteously indignant with

this condition. R3676:4
Nehemiah 5:7
I rebuked the nobles -- Shaking out the flowing folds of his

outer garment he declared that thus the Lord would shake out any
who had such a selfish spirit. R3676:4
Amongst the Lord's people we find not only a general tendency to
avoid asking the poor brethren to contribute, but a willingness to
assist the needy ones. R3676:4
Nehemiah 5:11
Restore, I pray you The Law required brotherly obligations--

"Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." (Lev. 19:18) R4921:3
Nehemiah 5:13
Said, Amen -- In contrast with Ezra, Nehemiah kindly and

moderately remonstrated against the wrong course and was
successful in correcting it without antagonizing the wrongdoers.
R2531:1
Nehemiah 5:17
At my table -- It may be inferred from these verses that

Nehemiah inherited great wealth. R2525:1
Nehemiah 5:19
For this people -- Examples of justice are powerful in

opposition to wrong. Christians should not only take the proper
stand, but let it be known to others as reproofs of unrighteousness.
R4921:3
Pray, pleading our righteousness. R5381:2*
Nehemiah 6
Nehemiah 6:2
Let us meet together -- Finding that the Jews could not be

taken unawares, their enemies invited Nehemiah away to a
conference relative to his authority. R3675:6, R4921:3
Doubtless our opponents now would like to divert our attention
from the work we have to do. R3675:6, R4921:3
In the plain of Ono -- Twenty miles from Jerusalem on neutral
ground. R4921:6
Nehemiah 6:3
I cannot come down -- Nehemiah refused four times to confer

with them, sending them word that his work was great and urgent.
R3675:6
Similarly we have the Lord's work to do and no time to discuss
social reform, etc. R3675:6
We should always have time to discuss God's Word and his love
with the brethren and to give the reason for the hope that is in us,
but we have no time for discussing outside questions. R4921:5
Nehemiah 6:7
Prophets to preach -- To publicly expound the Law of the

Lord. A55
Let us take counsel -- Nehemiah perceived that during his
absence they might overpower the garrison of Israel and destroy the
work accomplished or do him violence at the conference. R4921:6
Nehemiah 6:8
Thou feignest them -- A false rumor to alarm the Jews to thus

discourage the completion of their work. How cruel are the
multitudinous methods of slander. R4922:1
Nehemiah 6:12
God had not sent him -- The next step of the Adversary was to
threaten Nehemiah, but he could not be frightened. May it be so
with us. May our confidence in the Lord be such that the fear of
man will not be a snare to us. R3675:6
Nehemiah 7
Nehemiah 7:5
By genealogy -- He reorganized the people socially according to

the heads of their families, especially the priests and Levites.
R2531:1
Nehemiah 7:65
The Tirshatha -- Nehemiah was the Tirshatha (Persian for

provincial governor). R2531:1
Nehemiah 7:70
Gave unto the work -- Total about $400,000--one-third

contributed by those who remained in Babylonia; one-third by the
few wealthy of the returned Israelites; one-third by the mass of the
people--about $3 each. R2511.2
The Tirshatha gave-Nehemiah himself setting an example of
liberality with his large gifts. R2531:2
Nehemiah 7:73
All Israel -- The breach between the two tribes and the ten
tribes was already healed. R2084:6
Nehemiah 8
Nehemiah 8:1
Into the street -- The Plaza. R2531:2
Nehemiah 8:2
First day -- The "Feast of Trumpets" on the first day was a time
for general gathering, the beginning of their civil year, announced
by trumpet blowing. R2531:2
Nehemiah not only chose a pleasant season, but an accustomed
occasion, for gathering the people. R2531:1
Arrangements are already made for the antitypical "Feast of
Trumpets" and the beginning of a new civil year, or Millennial era
for mankind. R2531:4
Nehemiah 8:3
He read therein -- The public reading of the Scriptures was the

only means of keeping them before the people. R1145:4
Morning -- Daybreak. The service began early in the morning.
R2531:3
The people were attentive -- Gave close attention, to hear and
to understand every word. R2531:3
It was not only necessary that they should desire to know and they
should be in the attitude of heart to implore divine blessing and
assistance, but it was also necessary that they should be attentive.
R2531:3
Nehemiah 8:4
Ezra the scribe -- In recognizing Ezra to be more suitable than

himself for this work, Nehemiah manifested his humility. R3676:6
While God has all power, he nevertheless uses human
instrumentalities. R2532:1
Stood upon a pulpit -- Raised above the people, on a higher
plane of being, will be Christ, the great Priest, and his associates,
spiritual Israel, to declare the law of righteousness. R2531:4
On the plaza of the Temple. R3676:6
Beside him stood -- On Ezra's right were seven prominent men
and on his left six more, and the reading of the Law was done by
course, probably by all fourteen. R3676:6
Mattithiah, and Shema and -- Chiefs of the people,
representing the various tribes. R2531:2
Nehemiah 8:5
Ezra opened the book -- Ezra's chief place of importance was

the ceremony of reading the Law and introducing it to the attention
of the people. R3676:6
Stood up -- Out of respect, while the Law was being read; then
sat on the ground while it was being discussed. R4922:3,
R3678:6, R2531:4
Nehemiah 8:6
Ezra blessed the LORD -- Apparently the convention was

opened with prayer. No one can be taught and blessed by the
Lord's Word unless he be in the attitude of heart which appreciates
the greatness of God and the unworthiness of self. R2531:2
Nehemiah 8:7
Jeshua -- Shortened form of Jehoshua or Joshua. Jehoshua

signifies "Jehovah's salvation." R5335:3
The Levites -- Is it not time to strive as Levites and spiritual
Israelites to turn afresh to the Bible and instruct the people
respecting its teachings? R4923:4
To understand -- Having been scattered so long, they needed
these teachers for two reasons: (1) to explain the classical Hebrew
which they probably didn't understand, and (2) to give a particular
explanation of the sentiment or meaning. R3677:1
Teachers expounded the Law, explaining the meaning of words,
how the Law applied to daily life, and what it signified. R2531:3
Nehemiah 8:8
So they read -- God chose human instrumentalities to make his

will known to the people. R2532:1
Evidently this was the first presentation of the Law since their
return from captivity. Ezra had given his attention to the
rearranging of the Law and the instruction of the priests and
Levites, but had not as yet caused it to be promulgated amongst the
people. R3677:3
As the returned Israelites were blessed by the reading and
understanding of Moses' Law, much more those returning to the
Lord, out of bondage to "Babylon the Great," are being blessed by
an appreciation of the divine law, love, granted to the house of
sons. R1498:3
It will not do to attempt to tell the Lord's plan but ignore the Lord's
Word. R3677:3
Book In the law -- Nehemiah's method was to make general a
knowledge of the divine Law, appealing to the awakened
consciences of the people to act for themselves heartily, unto the
Lord. R2531:1
Distinctly -- Typifying the time when the declaration of the
Gospel message will come to the people and they will get the
"sense" and "understanding" of it. R2531:5
In the Millennium it will no longer be a din, a Babylon of confused
noises. R2531:5
Gave the sense -- The real essence of preaching, "Preach the
word." (2 Tim. 4:2) R3677:1
Caused them to understand -- It was not sufficient that the
priests and the Levites be learned in the Law, but that the people
themselves should be made to understand the divine message. The
same is true today. R3677:3, R4923:1
Nehemiah 8:9
And Nehemiah -- The man of opportunity. R3676:6

Representing the Lord Jesus at his second advent. Our great and
wise governor is instructing the Royal Priesthood and thus
preparing for the great work of the future. R2531:5
The Tirshatha -- Provincial Governor. R2531:2
And Ezra -- Nehemiah recognized Ezra as more suitable than
himself to take a prominent part in educating the people, thus
manifesting his humility. R3676:6
Levites that taught -- The unconsecrated cannot be recognized
as religious teachers in any sense. R2531:4
This day is holy -- In the Lord's providence the work was
accomplished in time to celebrate the civil new year, which
symbolized to them a fresh start in the ways of the Lord. R3676:3,
R3677:5
Mourn not, nor weep -- With repentance and the forgiveness of
sins, the time for mourning is past. R3677.3
Because the great sacrifice for sins has already been offered. In
consequence, the Millennial day is not a day of mourning, but of
rejoicing. R2531:5
For through Christ there is a full propitiation, not only for the sins
that are past, but also for the inherited weaknesses of the present
and future. R2531:6
All the people wept -- When the Law was read and expounded
they saw that they had been under chastisement because they had
neglected divine institutions. R3677:3, R4922:6
The first hearing of the divine law brings remorse and tears as we
realize our shortcomings. R2531:6
Nehemiah 8:10
And drink the sweet -- The exceeding great and precious

promises given to us, and to drink of the sweets of his favor, and to
send portions of this blessing to others who have not yet seen and
heard and tasted of the riches of divine grace. R2532:1
And send portions -- Representing the sending forth of the
knowledge of the Lord to fill the whole earth. R2531:5
For this day -- Typifying the Millennial day. R2531:5
Joy of the LORD -- The joy of realizing that the Lord is our
fortress, that no ill can betide us without his knowledge, that all
things work together for good. R3677:5
Is your strength -- So that all the trials and difficulties of the
way would seem as nothing. R3677:5
Nehemiah 8:11
Stilled all the people -- The message that the leaders set forth
was repeated to the people by the Levites and the tears were dry.
R3677:5
Nehemiah 8:12
Make great mirth -- They rejoiced in the opening of a new

year, which symbolized to them a fresh start in the way of the Lord
and in his favor. R3677:5
Nehemiah 8:13
The chief of the fathers -- The reading of the Law on the

second day was to heads of families, emphasizing their
responsibilities amongst the Lord's people. R3677:5
Nehemiah 8:14
They found written -- During this reading they discovered that

the "Feast of Tabernacles" feature of the Law had been overlooked.
R3677:6
Dwell In booths -- For a week, to remind them how once they
had been a people without a home from Egypt to Canaan; a special
festival of thanksgiving. R3677:6
Our present sojourn is toward the kingdom and everything of the

present should be considered as a temporal or tabernacle condition.
R3678:1
Nehemiah 8:15
Olive branches -- Symbols of peace. D651
Nehemiah 8:17
Sat under the booths -- The Jews rejoiced and had a feast of
good fellowship. The whole people for a time were on a common
level studying the Word. R3678:1
This corresponds well with our conventions, in temporal
tabernacles away from our usual home. R3678:2
Jeshua -- Shortened form of Jehoshua or Joshua. Jehoshua
signifies "Jehovah's salvation." R5335:3
Nehemiah 8:18
Read in the book -- It was a time for Bible study. R3678:1

Feast seven days -- Our conventions are after this Feast of
Tabernacles pattern, only on a higher spiritual plane. We exhort all
to have in mind the spending of one week in each year separate and
apart from ordinary business and work. R3677:6
Nehemiah 9
Nehemiah 9:2
Seed of Israel -- There was then no division in Israel (between

the ten tribes and the two). R2124:5
Separated themselves -- Israel was thus separated because
God's covenant was with them and not with others. R4963:6
Nehemiah 9:9
In Egypt -- Type of the kingdom of darkness. F458

By the Red sea -- Representing Second Death. F459
Nehemiah 9:10
Upon Pharoah -- Representing Satan. F458
Nehemiah 9:13
And gavest them -- The Ten Commandments were given only

to Israel after the flesh. R971:5, R1726:5
Nehemiah 9:14
The holy sabbath -- Type of the Millennial age. B40
Nehemiah 9:16
Hardened their necks -- A figure drawn from the stiffness of

neck of an unruly yoke of bullocks. R3464:1
Nehemiah 9:17
A God -- A God who appeals to our hearts. How much

Christians and the world have lost through misconceptions of God's
character. R5299:4
Ready to pardon -- To such as renounce sin and desire to
return to the Lord, God proffers mercy, forgiveness, through the
merit of Christ's sacrifice. R4811:6
God has not yet forgiven the world's sins. He has only made proper
provision for their cancellation, in due time, through the death of
his Son. R5299:5
Of great kindness -- Abundant in loving-kindness; not intent
upon torturing his creatures. R5299:4
Nehemiah 9:20
Thy manna -- It represented the living bread supplied to the

world by God through Christ. T122
Nehemiah 9:23
Thou hadst promised -- Pray, trusting God's faithfulness.

R5380:4*
Nehemiah 9:27
When they cried -- Such a cry to the Lord implies that the sins
and weaknesses of the flesh are contrary to the transgressor's will.
R5646:3
Thou heardest them -- When the spiritual Israelite cries for
deliverance from his own weaknesses, his prayer is heard and
deliverance provided with the assurance that the Lord's grace is
sufficient. R5646:3
Gavest them saviours -- With spiritual Israel, God also raises
up, from time to time, special counselors, deliverers, ministers.
R5645:3
Nehemiah 9:28
They did evil again -- The book of Judges gives a discouraging

picture; but was in many respects a favorable time. R5645:6
Nehemiah 9:29
Again unto thy law -- The Lord's corrections in righteousness

are evidences of special protection, care and relationship. R5646:2
Nehemiah 11
Nehemiah 11:1
One of ten -- Regardless of the original tribe to which they

belonged. B206
Nehemiah 11:20
Residue of Israel -- Of all the tribes who had respect to the

promises. B206
No more a divided nation; but as at first, one people, known by the
original name, Israel. B206
Nehemiah 12
Nehemiah 12:47
All Israel -- The twelve tribes, not just Judah. R2084:6
Nehemiah 13
Nehemiah 13:2
But hired Balaam -- Illustrating those forsaking righteousness

for earthly gain. F166
Nehemiah 13:4
Eliashib -- The High Priest. R2534:1

Allied unto Tobiah -- An Ammonite; became related to the
High Priest by marriage. R2534:1
Nehemiah 13:6
Came I unto the king -- Nehemiah remained with his people for
12 years, when he was recalled to the palace by Artaxerxes.
R2534:1
Obtained I leave -- He returned to Jerusalem by the king's
permission, probably five years afterward. R2534:1
Nehemiah 13:7
The evil -- In Nehemiah's absence the Israelites had prospered in

temporal matters, but suffered morally and religiously through
desire to be on friendly terms with the Gentiles. R2534:1
See comments on Nehemiah 13:16.
Nehemiah 13:9
Cleansed the chambers -- Nehemiah at once ordered the

cleansing of the Temple with the restoration of its service. R2534:3
Nehemiah 13:15
On the sabbath -- The conciliation of foreigners and relaxing of

interest in the Lord and his commandments resulted in the
disregarding of sabbath observance. R2534:2
The spiritual Israelite, although not under the Law, has his sabbath
day--a grander and more perfect rest--resting in faith in Christ.
R2534:4
The antitype is not a rest of one day out of seven, but a continual
rest every day. The fact that it was the seventh day is further
typical that the fulness of the antitype will not be realized until 6000
years of evil end and the seventh or Millennial day begins. R1499:4
"Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest (sabbath,) lest any
man fall after the same example of unbelief (of fleshly Israel)."
(Heb. 4:11) R2534:5
Although not a substitute for the Jewish sabbath, Sunday is a great
blessing to the spiritual Israelite, giving opportunity to glorify the
Lord, bless the brethren and do good unto all men. R2535:1
The general observance of the first day of the week gives spiritual
Israel opportunities to assemble for the study of the Word, for
praise, for prayer, for spiritual fellowship--building one another up.
R2535:2
Sunday should be carefully observed by Truth people as a God-given
privilege: lest it fall into disuse or disrespect: lest it lead
others to a violation of a less enlightened conscience: and to
maintain a proper religious influence with neighbors. R2535:4
Nehemiah 13:16
Dwelt men of Tyre -- As heathen people surrounding Israel

exercised a continual pressure upon them, so worldly influences
surrounding spiritual Israelites continually press them with the spirit
of worldliness which must be repelled. Let us be on guard against
the influences of the world, the flesh and the devil. R2534:2
Nehemiah 13:17
Contended with the nobles -- Remonstrated against such a

violation of the divine command, the fourth in Israel's Decalogue.
R2534:3
Nehemiah 13:18
Did not your fathers -- He reminded them that sabbath

desecration had much to do with their Babylonish captivity.
R2534:3
Profaning the sabbath -- Doubtless had Israel properly
observed their sabbath days they would also have properly observed
their sabbath years and jubilees. R2534:3
Nehemiah 13:19
Gates should be shut -- We must all commend Nehemiah's

devotion to the divine Law. R2534:4
Nehemiah 13:20
Lodged without Jerusalem -- Foreign tradesmen were

disappointed and obliged to camp outside the city. R2534:4
Once or twice -- In expectation that the reformation would be
short-lived, they came in like manner the next sabbath. R2534:4
Nehemiah 13:21
Testified against them -- Nehemiah warned them that to come

again for sabbath trade would subject them to arrest as disturbers of
the Law and peace of the city. R2534:4
Nehemiah 13:22
Remember me, O my God -- Nehemiah asks the Lord's

blessing upon himself in view of the work which he has done in the
name of the Lord. R2535:4
Spare me -- He was fighting valiantly for God's cause, making
many enemies; hence it was very proper that he should think of the
Lord's faithfulness toward all faithful to him. R2535:5
Nehemiah 13:23
Married wives of -- A lesson for spiritual Israel who are

commanded to be separate from the world, to seek fellowship with
their own people, and not be unequally yoked in marriage, or even
business partnership. R2534:2
Nehemiah 13:28
One of the sons of Jolada -- The High Priest's grandson,

Manasseh, married the daughter of Sanballat, once a prominent
enemy of the Jews. R2534:1
Nehemiah 13:31
Remember me, O my God -- See comments under Nehemiah

13:22.
For good -- To be amongst the Worthies of the past, mentioned
in Hebrews 11--those who wrought righteousness and were valiant
on the side of God and his Law. R2535:5, R2526:4
Esther
General
While the more faithful of the Jews had gone back to
Palestine to repair its wastes and were rebuilding the Temple,
the Lord was not negligent of the remainder of the people
who had not been sufficiently zealous to return to "the land of
promise" under the decree of Cyrus granting them the
privilege. Hundreds of thousands of Jews resided in all parts
of the Persian empire, which then included Babylonia and
Persia and nearly all Asia, including India. While special
lessons and peculiar trials were given to those rebuilding the
Temple, the Lord's favor was upon the remainder of the
chosen people to the extent that he permitted to come upon
them a great trial, severe testing, which undoubtedly taught
them a valuable lesson in their far-off homes. A record of
this great testing is furnished us in the book of Esther.
R3656:3, R1502:1
Esther 1
Esther 1:1
Days of Ahasuerus -- Xerxes, king of Persia. This

occurred about 40 years after the completion of the Temple.
R3656:3; PD52/62
The Xerxes of secular history. R3656:3, R3659:1
Possibly typifying Christ. The name means "King.".
R4018:5*
Esther 1:9
Vashiti -- She was neither a Christian nor a Jewess,

therefore without divine instruction or guidance. R4900:5
Esther 1:10
Merry with wine -- This was probably Vashti's reason for

ignoring the king's request. R4900:3
Esther 1:12
Queen Vashti -- She was unwise when she met command

with refusal. R4900:3
Refused -- She should have relied upon her charm, tact,

purity and her husband's love and care to rebuke any
immodesty. R4900:3
Esther 1:17
Despise their husbands -- In the opposite course of the

two queens we find a lesson bearing on the suffragette
question of today. R4900:3
Esther 2
Esther 2:5
Mordecai -- Possibly typifying the Ancient Worthies. The

word means "Dedicated to Mars." Mars is comparatively
close to the earth. There is a suggestion in this that the
Ancient Worthies may, after the close of the Millennial age,
attain heavenly honors and stations. R4018:5*
Esther 2:7
Esther -- Possibly typifying the Bride of Christ. The word

means "The planet Venus." Venus is the most glorious of all
the planets. R4900:2, R4018:5*
Esther 2:16
Esther was taken -- Accepting her accession as of divine

providence. R4900:6
Esther 2:17
She obtained grace -- Noted for her beauty, she clothed

herself with humility and with the most becoming of her fine
apparel, making herself as agreeable as possible to the king.
At this time she was 15. R4900:2,6
Esther 3
Esther 3:1
Haman . . . the Agagite -- The last Amalekite mentioned

in the Scriptures; possibly typifying the class that may try to
take the power out of the hands of the Ancient Worthies in
the end of the Millennial age. R4018:5*
Esther 3:6
All the Jews -- Hundreds of thousands, in all parts of the

Persian empire, including Asia and India. R3656:3
Esther 3:8
All the provinces -- The Jews were scattered all over the
Persian provinces and were living in a measure of temporal
prosperity. R1502:1
Esther 3:9
10,000 talents -- Their destruction and the confiscation of

their property would be a large acquisition to the king's
treasury, since so much was willingly appropriated. R1502:1
Esther 3:10
Ring -- The emblem of authority, investing Haman with all

the power and authority of the king. R360:4*
Esther 4
Esther 4:1
Sackcloth with ashes -- Such an experience would do

more to draw the hearts of the Jews to the Lord than would
anything else that could have occurred. R3657:1
Esther 4:11
Unto the king -- Xerxes was a notoriously cruel,

bloodthirsty monarch. R3657:3
These thirty days -- Queen Esther delayed using her
influence to help rescind the order against the Jews because
the king had shown a coldness toward her. R4900:6
Esther 4:14
Holdest. thy peace -- Mordecai assured her that she was

about to lose a great privilege of service for her people.
R4901:1
Deliverance -- This marked providential care is specially
noteworthy, for these were the descendants of those Jews who
failed to go to restore Jerusalem under Cyrus' permission.
R1502:4, R3656:3
For such a time -- Similarly, at the proper time, a Jew was
premier of England. R351:2,4*
Whatever we have of influence is so much of a stewardship
granted to us by the Lord, for which we must give account to
him. R3657:2
Esther 4:16
Fast ye for me -- Including petitions to God for the

deliverance of his people and for wisdom to guide Esther in
her endeavor. R4901:1
Eat nor drink -- Not complete abstention, but short
allowance and avoiding luxuries. R3657:4
Night or day -- With Esther 5:1, a proof that the term
"three days and nights" is idiomatic for "till the third day."
R3574:5*
And my maidens -- Not all the Jews who had faith in the
Lord had returned to Palestine. R3657:4
If I perish, I perish -- We must be faithful even at the risk
of losing our lives in the interests of the Lord's people and
cause. R3657:2
Esther 5
Esther 5:1
That Esther -- Her plans were well thought out, although

she was only about 15 at the time. R3657:5
By appearing as attractive as possible she sought to cooperate
with her prayers. Some of the Lord's people trust the Lord,
but do nothing to forward the cause they wish to serve.
R3657:4
Her royal apparel -- To make as good an impression as
possible. R3657:4
And stood -- She thus risked her station, her life and
everything for her race. R4901:1
Esther 5:2
Obtained favor -- She charmed the king. R4901:1
Esther 5:3
What is thy request? -- Wisely she refrained making it at

that time. R4901:4
Half of the kingdom -- Probably a mere formality
indicating great interest. R3657:5
Esther 5:8
Will do to morrow -- Esther's course is a good example of

propriety. We should both watch and pray, labor and wait, be
wise as serpents and harmless as doves. Meantime the Lord
worked upon the king from another standpoint. R3657:5
Esther 6
Esther 6:2
Was found written -- The king was guided in this matter

by the Lord's providence. R3657:6
Esther 7
Esther 7:10
Gallows that he had prepared -- "The wise are taken in

their own craftiness." (Job 5:13; 1 Cor. 3:19) HG363:6
Esther 8
Esther 8:1
What he was -- Esther was cousin to Mordecai. She was

also his adopted daughter (Esther 2:7). R4900:6
Esther 8:2
Ring -- The emblem of authority, delegated to one by him

who owned it. R360:4*
Mordecai -- Now the king's chief counsellor or, as we
would say today, "Secretary of State." R3658:2
Esther 8:8
Also for the Jews -- Since he could not rescind the first
decree, he issued another which would in some measure at
least, offset it. R3658:2, R4901:4
Esther 8:16
Joy, and honor -- Such shall be the Church's joy in the

morning of her great deliverance. R303:4*
Esther 9
Esther 9:5
All their enemies -- But spiritual Israelites are instructed

to love their enemies and to do good to those who hate,
despitefully use and persecute them (Matt. 5:44). R3658:3
The heart of this lesson is respecting divine providence.
When we note the providential care over God's typical people
it increases our faith and trust that God is both able and
willing to do as much and more for spiritual Israel.
R3658:4,5
Esther 9:28
Memorial -- The Hebrew word means "scent," a pleasant

remembrance. R2125:3
Job
General
The book of Job is credited with being the finest piece of
literature in the Hebrew language. It is a poem: and all
scholars admit that no translation yet given does it justice.
Whoever was used of God as the penman, his name is not
given. Some have assumed that the book of Job is merely a
parable, and that Job himself is merely an imaginary
character. In Ezekiel 14:14 and James 5:11, Job is classed
with other holy men, which would not be the case were this
narrative merely a parable. The fact that Job lived a hundred
and forty years after his adversities, or probably over two
hundred years in all, together with the fact that neither he nor
his friends make any allusion to Israel or Moses or the Law,
nor to Abraham and God's Covenant made with him, seem to
indicate beyond doubt that he belonged to the Patriarchal age.
Possibly he lived about the same time as Abraham and
Melchisedek. His home was evidently in Arabia, probably
not far from Palestine. R1505:2, R5401:3; PD26/37
God made him a great type of the human family, of the
troubles of their fallen condition and of their final restoration
to all that was lost in Adam, with the blessings of added
experiences to make them wise. R194:2, R413:1, R584:2,
R5803:4
What patriarchs like Job did in the matter of sacrifices was
evidently a token on their part of appreciation of God and of
the fact that a sacrifice for sins was necessary ... but none of
these sacrifices was accepted in the same sense that the
sacrifices were accepted under the Law. R4667:1; Q553:1
God would teach us that we are not to attribute our
calamities to him ... that they are merely permitted to come
upon us for our testing and ultimately for the good of all
whose faithfulness and integrity toward him are proved
thereby. The lesson furnished shows that, in the case of
God's people at least, Satan's power is limited. He cannot
destroy them at his will; he cannot touch them with adversity
except as their God permits. R1779:5
Job 1
Job 1:1
There was a man -- There is no cause to doubt that such a

man did live and pass through the experiences related.
R1505:3
The exact time in which Job lived we do not know, but we
think we are justified in supposing that he did not live during
the Law dispensation. Q552:6
Possibly a contemporary of Abraham and Melchizedek.
PD26/37, R1505:6, R5401:6
Land of Uz -- Evidently in Arabia, possibly not far from
Palestine. R1505:6, R5401:6
Whose name was Job -- Classed with other holy men in
Ezekiel 14:14 and James 5:11, which would not be the case if
this narrative were merely a parable. R1505:3; Q793:2
His experiences are typical of the fall and rise again of
humanity. PD26/37; R584:1, R5403:6, R5803:4; Q793:2
Was perfect -- So was man at first in the divine likeness
and favor, with all things subject to him (Psa. 8:4-8).
R5403:6
He walked before God with a perfect heart. R4667:1
Upright -- Appreciated justice. R5401:6
Feared God -- Reverenced God. R5401:6
Job 1:3
Great household -- Numerous servants. R5401:6

This man -- A merchant prince of great wealth who carried
on a very prosperous traffic. R5401:6
Job 1:6
Sons of God -- Angels. R315:3, R1005:1, R2843:5

And Satan -- Whose very existence is now denied by
many. F609
Unlike the flesh or the world, Satan is the only wilful,
intelligent plotter in opposing righteousness and truth in
humanity. F612
Job 1:7
Said unto Satan -- Job knew nothing about this, else he

would have known that Satan was afflicting him. R452:1*
Satan answered -- This account of Satan's conversation
with God concerning Job should be considered as allegorical--
like "Pilgrim's Progress." R5401:3, R1507:4, R1779:5
Job 1:10
An hedge about him -- "The angel of the Lord encampeth

round about them that fear him." (Psa. 34:7) R4227:6
Job 1:11
Put forth thine hand -- Permitted for the purpose of

displaying to the world the integrity and faithfulness of Job.
R452:1*
As the Lord gave the Adversary permission against
Job, so Satan will gain liberty in the impending hour
of temptation. R4227:6
Job 1:12
In thy power -- In his dealings with mankind the Lord has

allowed Satan to be the willing medium
through whom the penalty of sin should be meted out.
R452:4*
Satan cannot afflict God's children beyond the penalty for sin
without God's permission, and that only where it will result in
greater good to the subject and greater glory to God. R452:4*
Satan has "the power of death." (Heb. 2:14) R452:4*
Satan's power, like that of a hangman, is a delegated power.
E449
Put not forth -- Satan must have permission from God to
execute the death penalty. R265:6
Job 1:13
Eating and drinking -- Having a birthday party. PD26/37,

SM523:1
Job 1:15
And the Sabeans -- Instigated by Satan, as the context

shows. R2189:4
Job 1:16
The fire of God -- Probably a bolt of lightning, caused by

Satan. R1800:1, R2189:4
Job 1:17
The Chaldeans -- Instigated by Satan. R2189:4

Job 1:19
A great wind -- A cyclone or tornado, raised up by Satan.

R1800:1, R3324:5, R2189:4
In a sense Satan is prince of the air power--literally. R1684:4,
R1800:1
Job 1:20
Rent his mantle -- "Many are the afflictions of the

righteous." (Psa. 34:19) SM523:1
Job 1:21
Naked came I -- It is a favor from God that we have life at

all. R5418:1
We know that we have no rights whatever. All we can do is
call upon the Lord's mercy. R5418:4
Shall I return -- Death, corruption, touches everything
earthly under present conditions, no matter how careful or
thoughtful the provision. R4567:1
The LORD gave -- We have nothing that is really our
own. R5418:1
All that we have should be regarded as a gift from God,
whether it be much or little. R5417:3
The LORD hath taken -- He realized that all he had
possessed belonged to God. R5418:1
Similarly, we can take, in perfect submission, whatever
experiences God permits. R5418:5
Job had no claim on everlasting life, though he had a hope of
it. R5418:1
Even though those who are being "sifted" have been very dear
to us, it is for us to humble ourselves under the mighty hand
of God. R4483:5
Blessed be -- There was no spirit of rebellion in a heart out
of whom came such loving words of submission, and that
without a clear vision of the divine wisdom in permitting
them. R1937:4
God has provided for a future life beyond the tomb, a
resurrection. R4567:1
Job 1:22
Sinned not -- Job was very careful not to sin with his
lips. R1937:3
Nor charged God -- Having the deep-rooted conviction
that God was his friend and would in the end protect him,
though evil, for a time, might seem to prevail. R452:1*
Foolishly -- With being the author of his calamities.
R1684:4, R1800:1
He did not charge God with injustice. R5803:4
Job 2
Job 2:1
The sons of God -- The angelic sons. R1005:1, R2843:5,

R315:3*, R777:4; Q840:4; E105
many. F609
Job 2:6
He is in thine hand -- Satan is the direct cause of earth's

woe and sorrow. R584:4
But save his life -- Satan's power is limited. R2180:1,
R1779:6
Satan cannot afflict beyond God's permission. R452:4*
Job 2:7
With sore boils -- Satan has considerable of the "power of

death," including disease. R760:4
If disease and death are to a considerable extent under Satan's
control, why might he not reverse the method and do some
healing of disease. R1644:3
Job 2:9
Thine integrity -- Suggesting that it had been without

divine appreciation that he had sought to do justice and mercy
all his life. R5401:6, R1505:6
Job 2:10
Receive evil -- Calamities, troubles, for discipline or

refining. R1937:3
Whatever God permits must be intended for our good.
R1271:3, R1780:1, R1800:1
In all this -- Loss of children, wealth, influence and
health. R5401:6
Did not Job sin -- He still trusted in God. R5401:6
With his lips -- He knew that his words would be taken by
the Lord as an index of his heart. R1937:3
"By thy words thou wilt be acquitted, and by thy words thou
wilt be condemned." (Matt. 12:37), R1937:1
Job 3
Job 3:11
Died I not -- He wished that he had never been born.

R5402:1
Job 3:17
Be at rest -- Asleep in the tomb, in sheol, in hades, in the

grave. SM312:T, R4792:6
Job 4
Job 4:1
Eliphaz the Temanite -- The false reasonings of Job's

friends many improperly quote as inspired. R1506:1
Job 4:17
Mortal man -- The Bible distinctly declares that man is

mortal. R1642:5, R254:5
Job 5
Job 5:7
Born unto trouble -- All of Adam's posterity are "born in

sin and shapen in iniquity." (Psa. 51:5) R2049:3
Job 5:13
Own craftiness -- The wisdom of selfishness seeks to

grasp and hold everything for self. R1518:3
The Lord chooses "babes" who will babble forth the truth
unceremoniously to confound the wise. R942:2
Illustrated in the effect of the gold standard and the
demonetizing of silver on the stock market. SM687:3;
OV337:4
Job 5:17
Despise not -- Illustrated by David's confession,

reformation and seeking of forgiveness when overtaken in a
fault. PD43/53
Job 5:18
He woundeth -- Many of our own hearts were wounded,

but it is the wounded heart that is ready to be bound up and to
be healed and to be transformed. HG270:3
Job 5:19
Shall deliver thee -- Exceeding great and precious promise

to the Bride class. R4784:2
Job 7
Job 7:9
Down to the grave -- Sheol, oblivion, death, not torment.

E358, R2600:1, R828:5
Come up no more -- Mankind had no hope of saving
themselves. R194:2
This was, properly, the human standpoint; for the ransom had
not yet been paid. R194:2
Job 7:21
Pardon my transgression -- Job seemed to realize that

God intended furnishing a ransom for sin to take away the sin
of the world. R194:2
Sleep in the dust -- Sleep in death during the night of
weeping and trouble, dying and crying. E359
Thou shalt seek me -- In resurrection power. E359
In the morning -- The Millennial morning when the night
of death and weeping is past. E359; R678:3, R194:2,
R604:3*, R1017:6*
But I shall not be -- Death will have worked my utter
destruction. E359; R678:3, R1017:6*, R846:4
Job 9
Job 9:2
How should man -- The court of heaven has regulations

and ceremonies of respect to gain an audience with the King
of kings. R1864:5
Job 9:6
Shaketh the earth -- Shaking of the pillars of the present

social structure in the coming time of trouble. R1813:2
Job 9:9
Which maketh -- He needed the assistance of the one who

was able to create the earth and the heavens. R3424:4
By their numberless multitude, orderly grouping, continual
yet never conflicting movements, perfect harmony and
magnitude and mutual benign influence, do the shining host
of heaven declare the glory of God. R1391:1
And Pleiades -- The probable seat of divine empire. D653
Job 9:33
Any daysman -- An expression on Job's part of his need of

a mediator between God and himself. R1506:1, R5402:1
Our Lord Jesus, the appointed "daysman" said: "No man
cometh unto the Father but by me." (John 14:6) R1864:6
Job 10
Job 10:8
Thine hands -- Power. R4519:6*, R4059:2
Job 10:9
Hast made me -- The "wind" cannot fashion a created

organism, but God's invisible creative power can. R4520:1*
Job 10:19
I had not been -- Death, destruction. R1039:6, R1878:6

The wicked (all who, after coming to a clear knowledge of the
truth, still wilfully disobey it) shall be cut off in the Second
Death. E387
To the grave -- Qebar, tomb, the grave. E348
Job 10:21
Land of darkness -- Instead of a place of blazing fire it is

described as a state of "darkness." R2599:2; CR209:2*;
HG335:2
Job 11
Job 11:8
It -- God's wisdom. R2599:4

Deeper than hell -- Than any pit, sheol, oblivion.
R2599:4; E359
What canst thou know? -- As there is no knowledge in
sheol, there can be no knowledge of the divine wisdom and
plan. E359
Job 12
Job 12:10
In whose hand -- In the divine power. E314

And the breath -- Ruach, life-power, spirit of life. E174,
E314
Job 13
Job 13:1
Lo -- Commencing Job's masterly reply. R5402:1

Hath heard -- The false reasonings of his friends (which
many improperly quote as inspired). R5402:1
Job 13:4
Of no value -- His friends told him that he must have been

a great sinner and a hypocrite. R5401:6
Job 13:15
Though he slay me -- Though much cast down, he

maintained his integrity and his faith in the Lord. R5803:4
He sought in vain for an explanation. R5401:6
Many of God's people since have been similarly confused as
to why God permits evil to come upon his faithful servants.
R5402:1
Yet will I trust -- Job's expression of confidence in God
and in his ultimate deliverance. R5402:1
I shall yet receive his favor and learn what he means by these
afflictions coming upon me. R5333:4
His trust was not misplaced. After his testings, God gave him
back children, houses, lands and friends which foreshadowed
the coming blessings of restitution. R5333:4
Mine own ways -- Conscious of his own heart-honesty
toward God, Job defends himself, but goes to too great an
extreme in declaring his own innocence. R5401:6
Job 14
Job 14:1
Man -- Mankind. R5402:1

Full of trouble -- Job's prophetic wisdom. Life under
present conditions is full of trial and sorrow, from the cradle
to the tomb. R5402:3
The world is full of troubled hearts. Each of us has not only
his own burdens, but our weaknesses are augmented by the
idiosyncracies of others. SM262:1
Job 14:2
Continueth not -- No wonder Lazarus and others were

silent about their experiences in hades. R822:5*
Job 14:4
Who can bring -- Comparatively few parents seem to

realize that when children are less than graceful in feature and
character a responsibility for the defects rests upon them.
R5251:1
All existence comes from the father and not the mother, the
mother receiving and nourishing the germ until it is able to
maintain an independent existence. R776:3
In harmony with this principle God was the "Father," or life-giver,
while the earth was the mother of Adam. R776:5
A clean thing -- Perfect, free from sin, in the full sense of
the word. R5402:3, R1506:3
Jesus' perfect life "proceeded forth and came from God"
(John 8:42) and was merely developed and nourished in
Mary. E105
Jehovah has begotten sons of the divine nature as well as
other natures--angelic (Job 2:1; Job 38:7; Heb. 2:9), human
(Luke 3:38) and the "new creatures" who shall be of the
divine nature (2 Pet. 1:4). R777:4, R354:5
Similarly, father Adam was born into being perfect because
he was born of God, though his mother (the earth) was still
imperfect except for the specially prepared Garden of Eden.
E106
If the father is perfect, the child will be so. R776:6
In the case of Jesus, a perfect life-germ transferred by divine
power from a pre-existent condition to the embryo condition
was born "holy" and "perfect", though of an imperfect
mother. R777:2
Out of an unclean -- Out of Adam, the contaminated
fountain. E103; R5402:3, R777:1
Applying to the man and not to the woman. R777:1
It would not be possible that any imperfect human pair could
bring forth absolutely perfect children. R5251:1; CR428:2;
R1780:6
Though life or being comes from the father, form and nature
come from the mother. R777:2
The female furnishes organism as well as sustenance--in fact,
furnishes all except the life-seed or sperm, which comes from
the father or life-giver. E103
Illustrated by the offspring of the union between the
"daughters of men" and those angels which kept not their first
estate--their progeny had the vitality of the fathers but the
nature of their mothers. R777.2
In the typical dispensation a child inherited blessings and
privileges from its father according to the favor and standing
of its mother (Gen. 21:10; Exod. 21:4; Gal. 4:30). R777:5
Not one -- No man would have such power. But this is the
very power which God possesses and exercised in the birth of
Jesus. OV151:3
Not answered by the doctrine of "Immaculate Conception";
for, if Mary had been free from Adamic sin she must have
received it from her mother, and so on all the way back to
Eve, "the mother of all living." (Gen. 3:20) R776:2
When Adam fell the whole human creation was made subject
to the inherent taint of sin and its condemnation to death.
R1780:6
Job 14:5
Determined -- In the Lord's hands. R5402:3
Job 14:6
That he may rest -- Let all men live out their short time in
peace. Job did not see the ministry of trouble. R5402:3,
R1506:3
Hireling -- Why afflict those who already have a heavy,
burdensome task. R5402:3
Job 14:7
That it will sprout -- But man cannot sprout, he cannot

raise himself, he must await the great Deliverer. R194:2
Job 14:9
The scent of water -- Favorable conditions. R5402:3
Job 14:10
Man dieth -- Utter hopelessness of man in death, so far as

any powers of his own are concerned. R5402:3
Wasteth away -- There is no root left, no spark of life
remains. R5402:3
Giveth up the ghost -- Life. R142:3, R279:1; A210
"Gasps out, expires", Young. R754:5*
Where is he? -- As the diamond loses its beauty when
light is withdrawn. R142:3, R279:1
Job 14:12
Riseth not -- Loses all power to raise himself. R1506:3,

R5402:4, R194:2
Till the heavens -- The present powers of spiritual control.
R1506:3, R194:2
The present order of things, or dominion of earth, is
symbolically termed "the heavens." These must give place to
the Kingdom of Christ, the "new heavens," when the dead
shall be awakened. R1018:4*
A blessed provision, they shall not be awakened until
surrounding circumstances shall be more favorable for their
trial. R846:2
Be no more -- Till the new dispensation has been ushered
in. HG194:6
Out of their sleep -- Unconscious, peaceful rest. R2172:3
Of death; by anyone, until God's due time. R5402:4
Job 14:13
Hide me -- A human being, not a new creature. R5109:1

In the grave -- Sheol, oblivion, the state of death.
SM524:1; E359, E410; R5402:4, R2598:5, R2600:1
Because of his experience he wished for death, that he might
have no further experience with sin. PD26/37; R5402:4
Sheol not here translated "hell" because it would have been
absurd for Job to have prayed to God to hide him in a hell of
torments. R2598:5
Keep me secret -- Hidden in the grave. R1506:4,
R5402:4
Thy wrath be past -- This time of wrath which has now
lasted for 6,000 years is to be brought to a close by the great
Day of Vengeance. E410, E346, E359; R1378:1, R2805:4,
R1881:2
The "wrath" here mentioned is elsewhere called the "curse."
SM524:2
Until the reign of sin and death should be ended and the Sun
of Righteousness shine with healing in his beams. R1506:4,
R2805:4; HG194:6, R332:4
The saints are to be raised before the day of wrath, but the
class Job speaks of do not arise until the time of trouble is
over. R194:3
After the seven last plagues are fulfilled. HG91:3
Until the dawn of the great Lord's day. R1017:2*, R5109:1;
SM525:T
A set time -- God's due time, when evil shall have no more
dominion. R5402:4
The resurrection time. HG194:6
And remember me -- By calling me from oblivion into
being again, a resurrection. E360; R2600:1, R5109:4,
R5402:4; PD26/37
Job 14:14
Shall he live again? -- There is a longing hope within man

that death does not end all existence.
E383
Will I wait -- Death is a condition of rest, of quiet, of
peaceful unconsciousness. R5059:6, R5605:4, R4794:2
Until God's due time. R5402:4
Till my change come -- The hope of a resurrection.
R1017:6*
Job 14:15
Thou shalt call -- The time of wrath is to be brought to a

close by the great Day of Vengeance. E410
In the resurrection morning. R5402:4; SM525:T
"The dead shall hear the voice of the Son." (John 5:25) E346
"Thou shalt seek me in the morning." (Job 7:21) E359
If man is not in existence, yet comes forth when called, the
calling forth is a re-creation. R846:4
Like Lazarus, at the call of Jesus, earth's dead millions shall
again spring into existence. R604:3*, R678:3
And I will answer -- A re-creation. R846:4, R1017:6*,
R604:3
Will spring into being again, at thy Word. R678:3, R1378:1,
R5402:5
All will answer the resurrection call. E359
Work of thine hands -- His people are his workmanship
(Eph. 2:10). R5402:5
Job 14:19
The hope of man -- In himself. E348
Job 14:21
He knoweth it not -- A direct contradiction to the claims

of spirit mediums that they hold communication with the
dead. R265:5
The Israelites were distinctly told that the "dead know not
anything." (Eccl. 9:5) SM99:2; OV215:T, OV362:3;
Q204:3
Contrary to the teachings of Spiritualism. R2170:2
Total unconsciousness. "There is no ... knowledge, nor
wisdom, in the grave whither thou goest" (Eccl 9:10)--no
knowledge of anything until the resurrection. R4794:1,
R4551:6, R5303:1; E348; A210
Thus Dorcas (Acts 9:32-43), though a good woman and a
child of the Lord, when awakened to life, had no wonderful
experiences or mysterious visions to relate. R1450:6
During the Jewish age God guarded his typical people against
delusions of lying spirits, that the dead are alive. R1642:6
Job 14:22
Soul within him -- Signifying that man would suffer and

mourn from his inmost being. Q836:T
Job 16
Job 16:21
One might plead -- He seems to realize his need of

someone to represent his cause before the Lord--a mediator.
R5401:6, R1506:1
Job 17
Job 17:13
The grave -- Sheol, oblivion, death, not torment. E360,

R2600:1
In the darkness -- Not a place of blazing fire. R2599:2
Job 17:14
To corruption -- To which my body turns; while my soul,

my being, sleeps, inanimate, awaiting the resurrection. E360
Job 17:16
The bars of the pit -- Sheol, oblivion, death. F360;

R2600:1
Our rest together -- Whether they have hope for an
awakening or not, all find rest in the dust. E360
Job 19
Job 19:20
Skin of my teeth -- Teeth--membrane or skin. R5994:4
Job 19:25
That my redeemer -- Gaal, the one who sets free by

payment. E438
He shall stand -- Job prophetically recorded his hope of a
coming Redeemer. SM524.2
Job 19:26
Shall I see God -- I shall yet praise the Lord in the flesh
and in health. R3040:2
I shall yet receive his favor and learn what he means by these
experiences, these afflictions. R5333:4
See his hand. See his works. "All flesh shall see the
salvation of God." (Luke 3:6) R3040:2
Job 21
Job 21:13
In wealth -- Describing the prosperous course of some

who are not the Lord's people in contrast with the tribulations
of some who are the Lord's people. E360
E360; R2600:1
Job 21:30
Day of destruction -- Day of judgment, the Millennial

day. R1882:4; HG334:5
Job 24
Job 24:19
So doth the grave -- Sheol, oblivion, death, not torment.

E360; R2600:1
Which have sinned -- All mankind, but especially evil-doers,
who hasten their own death. E360
Job 26
Job 26:6
Hell is naked -- Every secret thing of sheol, oblivion, is

known. E361; R2599:4
Job 26:7
The north -- Throughout the scriptures the north seems to

be closely associated with Jehovah's government of earth.
R5710:3
Over the empty place -- There seem to be fewer stars in
the north than in any other part of the heavens. R5710:5
Hangeth -- Prof. Young says, "To hang up"--used 13 times
in referring to the hanging of men upon gallows. R1814:3
Earth upon nothing -- Confirms the fact that the earth is a
globe hanging in space, contrary to the "flat earth" theory.
R1813:4, R1814:3
The history of astronomy dates back to very ancient time.
R1814:3
Launched it out in the abyss of space, subject to fixed laws.
R1815:2
Job 27
Job 27:9
Will God hear -- "God heareth not (the prayers of)

sinners." (John 9:31) R2024:1
Job 28
Job 28:28
The fear of the Lord -- The reverence of the Lord.

R1518:2, R5952:5
Some are disposed to speak jestingly of the Lord and the
scriptures. This is a dangerous practice. R5952:5
Job 31
Job 31:16
The widow -- Job, a man of great generosity, considered

the widow. R5401:6
Job 31:17
Fatherless -- Job was a man of great generosity who

considered the orphan. R5401:6
Job 31:30
Mouth to sin -- Job in the midst of all his afflictions, was

very careful not to sin with his lips. R1937:3
How necessary this is to the stability of Christian character.
R1937:3
Job 31:39
The owners -- Margin: the soul of owners. It is not the

body, but the being, called in the scripture, "soul," that dies.
R205:4, R277:1
Job 32
Job 32:2
Elihu -- Whose name signifies "God himself." R1506:5,

R5402:5
Son of Barachel -- Such genealogical details not common
to parables. R1505:3
Wrath kindled -- Because Job had been reasoning in part
from a wrong premise. Job must not expect fully to
comprehend all the ways of God, but must trust him.
R5402:5
Than God -- God's wisdom and justice cannot be
impugned. R5402:6
Job 32:6
Answered and said -- Elihu's words were probably wiser

than those of the other comforters, but they were merely
human wisdom as far as we can discern. R5402:6
Job 33
Job 33:4
Spirit of God -- Invisible influence. R4519:6*
Job 33:14
Once, yea twice -- Thinking men observe the persistency

with which questions of right and wrong, justice and injustice,
are forced upon their consideration, demanding an expression
of their individual principles. B152
Job 33:16
Then he openeth -- With the thunder tones of the day of

trouble. B153
Job 33:17
From his purpose -- From his own purpose. B153
Job 33:18
Soul from the pit -- The being from death. R205:4,

R277:1
Job 33:23
Messenger -- As defender. R5402:6

Among a thousand -- A rare one. R5402:6
To shew -- To declare. R5402:6
His uprightness -- His own righteousness for man.
R5402:6
Job 33:24
Then he -- God. R5402:6

Him -- Man. R5402:6
Deliver -- Release him. R5402:6
Down to the pit -- Of death, or the grave. R5402:6; E462
Found a ransom -- Christ Jesus, who gave himself a
ransom price for all by paying the death penalty that was
upon Adam, a corresponding price. R5402:6, R4154:3;
E462
God will not let the sinner go unconditionally, but because he
has found a ransom. R324:4, R1058:5
Job 33:25
He shall return -- Restitution. R5402:6

Youth -- To perennial youth, in which death and decay
will find no place. R5402:6
Job 33:26
Pray unto God -- Communion with God. R5402:6

Favourable -- They shall find acceptance with God.
R5402:6
Job 33:27
I have sinned -- An acknowledgment that God is just and

that the restitution was unmerited will be required. R5402:6
Job 33:28
Deliver -- Redeem. R5402:6

See the light -- May be brought to the light. R5402:6
Job 33:29
Oftentimes -- Margin: twice and thrice. Based on this and

on Amos 2:4, the Jewish rabbis limited the granting of
forgiveness to a repentant wrong-doer to three times; but our
Lord taught forgiveness times without number. R2665:3
Job 34
Job 34:1
Elihu -- The youngest of four friends of Job who called

upon him in his adversity to comfort him. R5878:2
Job 34:2
My words -- As wise, or wiser, than any spoken by Job's

comforters, but they were merely human wisdom. R5402:6,
R5878:2
Job 34:3
Ear trieth words -- The ear is the mouth of the mind by

which it receives the word. R2949:2*
Mouth tasteth meat -- Meat that goes no further than the
mouth cannot nourish. R2949:2*
Job 34:12
Not do wickedly -- God is responsible for evil (calamity,

trouble) in the sense of permission and arrangements as the
penalty for violating his laws; but not in the sense of being the
author of it. R871:6
Pervert judgment -- The punishment must have some

relation to the enormity of the offense--a principle out of
harmony with the eternal torment theory. R523:4*
Job 34:29
When he -- Jehovah; the "God of all comfort." (2 Cor.

1:3) R2058:2*, R5403:1
Although these words (of Elihu) are not inspired, they are
very wise. R5403:1
Giveth quietness -- The children of God take these words
in a very different sense from that suggested to Job by Elihu.
We have quietness and rest of heart even in severe trouble.
R5879:1
The Lord's people have a peace and rest of mind through the
knowledge of God's plan and his justice, mercy and love.
R5403:2
Precious balm of Gilead for wounded spirits on the battlefield
of life; the gentle whisper of hope and love and courage when
heart and flesh are almost failing. R5803:1
Knowing that when our hearts are loyal and true, our God
does not mark against us the unavoidable blemishes of our
earthen vessel. R5802:5
There is a cry which never fails to bring this quietness. It is
the prayer for sweet, trustful, loving acquiescence to the will
of God. R2058:3*
When God purposes to give peace, the whole universe will be
in obedience to his laws and none can make trouble. R5403:1
Can make trouble -- Job's calamity was not accidental.
R5878:3, R5403:1
God permitted trial to come to test his servant, just as he
permits trouble to come upon his Church. R5878:6
While the world is troubled, God's children have a peace that
the world knows not of and can neither give nor take away.
R5403:3
Trouble is not necessarily a sign of the disfavor of God.
"Many are the afflictions of the righteous." (Psa. 34:19)
R5879:4
God did not always give our Lord Jesus quietness, but
allowed trouble, like a great flood, to sweep over his soul.
Some of the Lord's followers may have similar experiences.
R5403:4
He will not suffer us to be tempted above what we are able to
bear (1 Cor. 10:13). R5878:6
To the world it might appear that the trials, testings, scoffs, to
which faithfulness to the Lord exposes, would rob life of all
its pleasures. But not so. R4103:1
The spirit which once tossed restlessly in chafing winds of
lesser trials sinks in sweet submission under heavier griefs.
R2058:6*
Against a man -- Satan could not have sent all those
calamities unless God had permitted it. Similarly we are
under special divine care. R5403:1
Job 35
Job 35:10
Songs In the night -- Even in this night-time the Lord's

people do not need to sorrow as others who have no hope.
"He hath put a new song into our mouths." (Psa. 40:3)
R3123:3
Job 36
Job 36:14
They -- Margin: Their soul. It is not the body, but the

being, called in scripture "soul", that dies. R205:4, R277:1
Job 36:17
Take hold on thee -- "Justice and judgment are the

habitation of thy throne." (Psa. 89:14) T124
Job 37
Job 37:16
Is perfect -- God is of purer eyes than to recognize iniquity

and cannot look upon sin with allowance. "His work is
perfect." (Deut. 32:4) R1225:2
Job 37:18
Spread out -- Spread forth (Revised Version). R1812:2

Not literally--the language is highly figurative and poetic.
R1812:2
Job 37:23
In plenty of justice -- Illustrated by the Mercy Seat in the

Tabernacle. T124
Job 38
Job 38:2
Darkeneth ... by words -- "Except ye utter by the tongue

words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is
spoken?" (1 Cor. 14:9) R1481:4*
Job 38:4
The foundations -- Illustrated by the rock on which the

Great Pyramid is built. C318; R1813:5
Of the earth -- "In the beginning God created the heaven
and the earth." (Gen. 1:1) F17
Job 38:5
Laid the measures -- The Great Pyramid abounds in

significant measurements. C318
The line upon it -- The perfection and exactness of the
Great Pyramid show it was constructed by a master architect.
C318
Job 38:6
The foundations -- The socket stones (margin).

R1813:5; C329
Fastened -- Or, made to sink. The Great Pyramid has four
corner socket-stones sunk into solid rock. C318
The corner stone -- "The chief corner stone" (Eph. 2:20);
The top stone; "The stone which the builders rejected" (Matt.
21:42); "He shall bring forth the head stone thereof with
shoutings, crying, Grace, grace unto it." (Zech. 4:7) C318,
C329
A pyramid has five cornerstones, but the reference here is to
one particular cornerstone, the top stone. It is a perfect
pyramid in itself, to which the lines of the entire structure
conform. C318
Job 38:7
The morning stars -- Early bright ones. R1005:1

All the sons of God -- The angelic sons, to whom he was
the life-giver. F51; E105; R816:5, R1005:1, R2843:5,
R5290:3
Shouted for joy -- At the creation of this earth. R1005:1;
F17, F18
In the dawn of earth's creative week of 49,000 years. F51
Their interest in the human race was manifested in singing
over the works of creation. A220
Job 38:9
Swaddlingband -- Heavy rings enveloping the earth. F31,

F23-26
Job 38:11
But no further -- For 6,000 years the Lord has been letting
mankind learn their own lessons, except as their course of sin
might interfere with the outworking of God's great plan.
R5771:3
God's providence has often interfered in the past, but now we
have apparently reached the time when the Lord is saying,
"Let loose the winds of strife." R5825:4
God can harness even every opposing element, animate or
inanimate, and make them all work together for the
accomplishment of his grand designs. R1560:2
That which would work no good, serve no purpose or teach
no lesson, he restrains. A250
God has not given present rulers unlimited power, but only so
far as it does not interfere with his plans--there it must stop.
R799:1
Even the wrath of men and devils shall be controlled by God's
providence and made to praise him; and the remainder, which
would in any way thwart his ultimate purpose, he will
restrain. R1778:4
Job 38:22
Hast thou -- Verses 22 and 23 seem to be figurative

language, not prophetic. R1762:4
Hall -- Stones of congellation, hail of frozen water.
R3344:3*
Job 38:31
Canst thou bind -- By their numberless multitude, orderly

grouping, continual yet never conflicting movements, perfect
harmony, magnitude and mutual benign influence, do the
shining host of heaven declare the glory of God. R1391:1
The Lord desired to reassure Job of his superior power and
grace. R1390:6, R3424:4
Of Pleiades -- While the planets of our solar system
revolve around our sun, there is a far mightier center around
which countless millions of suns revolve, seemingly
associated with the Pleiades, particularly with Alcyone, its
central star--thus possibly representing the residence of
Jehovah. R5710:2
The probable seat of divine empire. D653; C327; Q813:2
Job 42
Job 42:7
Against thee -- Job's three friends are severely reproved by

God. R5403:5
Job 42:8
Burnt offering -- These sacrifices were not sin-offerings,

but merely a manifestation of a good desire or heart and a
reverence for God. R4666:6; Q552:5
Job 42:9
Went, and did -- They obeyed God and were restored to

divine favor. R5403:5
Job 42:10
Twice as much -- Type of the final restoration of all that

was lost in Adam, with the blessings of added experience to
make them wise. R5803:4
Job 42:11
All the evil -- Job recognized his adversities as God-permitted

(Job 2:10), because Satan could do no more than
God would permit him to do. R1800:1
God is not the author of sin (evil). R1799:3, R1800:2
Job 42:12
Latter end of Job -- Typifying mankind, in some

respects. R5403:6, R1507:4, R5803:4
Foreshadowing the blessings of restitution: how the
tribulations of mankind will eventually work out for good to
those who love God. R5333:4; PD26/37
Job 42:13
Sons and ... daughters -- The same number as before, a

restitution. R5403:5
Job 42:15
Daughters ... inheritance -- Foreshadowing the time when

the curse will be entirely lifted and woman will find her
natural and honored place at the side of her noble husband as
his helper and companion "heirs together with him of the
grace of life." (1 Pet. 3:7) R1554:1
Job 42:16
After this -- After his adversities. R5401:5
Job 42:17
Being old -- Probably over 200 years in all, indicating that

he belonged to the Patriarchal age. R5401:5, R1505:5
Psalms
General
It is safe to say that no other collection of poems has
accomplished as much good as the book of Psalms. Its
sentiments seem to touch the soul at every turn--in joy, in
sorrow. R5653:3
David's thought in writing the Psalms may have been
merely to their use in song; but the Lord's object was to give
prophecy to assist his people of a later period. R2345:4
Many of David's prophetic words relate more particularly to
The Christ than to himself and many were written from this
standpoint, as speaking for Messiah. R3609:1
The book does not claim to be a book of David's psalms,
but a book of psalms. While a majority of the psalms
particularly claim that David was their author, some do not
name their authors. The Jews recognized the book of Psalms
as a whole--as sacred Scripture--as a holy or inspired writing.
And our Lord and the apostles quoted directly or by allusion
from sixty-one of the psalms, some of them repeatedly. Our
Lord himself quoted from nineteen of them. These quotations
embrace, not only some of those definitely ascribed to David,
but equally those whose authorship is not stated. And in one
case (John 10:34, 35) our Lord, quoting from Psalm 82:6,
distinctly terms it a part of the "Scriptures" which "cannot be
broken." R1418:3
Psalm 1
Psalm 1:1
Blessed is the man -- The Lord Jesus and those who walk
in his footsteps, the pure in heart. R1383:2
That walketh not -- Has no fellowship, sympathy or
common interest. R1383:2, R2697:3
Evil companionship corrupts good conduct. Let all of our
special friends or companions, in business or pleasure, be the
Lord's friends, who honor him. R2366:1
It is not our mission to follow others into outer darkness in
conversation and reading, but to remain with the Lord and
seek others to take their places and crowns. R1860:6
We should fellowship with the saints of the Most High, who
are meek and lowly of heart and whom he shall lead in his
ways. R4484:4
Lot did not pursue this course and hence failed of a blessing.
R2853:2
In the counsel -- That there is a way of salvation for man
other than that provided in God's plan. R2698:2
Of the ungodly -- The worldly. C89
The wicked and slothful servants in the Church who, having
been made partakers of the holy Spirit, commit wilful sin.
R2697:6
Those who neglect this counsel need not be surprised if they
fall into temptation, sin and disfellowship with the things
which are pure. R4076:2
Standeth -- Entering into their plans and schemes, thus
likely becoming partakers of their spirit, careless of
consecration vows and overcharged with earthly cares.
R2698:4
Stand with God even if that should imply standing alone.
R1383:3
The way of sinners -- The assemblies of the wicked. C89
Sinners against their covenant of consecration, being
overcharged with the things of this life. R2698:3, R4079:5*
Nor sitteth -- We cannot sit down in the light. We must
walk in it if we are to stay in it. A25
Because of ignorance of God's plan and character, because
they are blinded by Satan and because their ideas of right and
wrong are warped through false doctrines and theories.
R1174:6
Of the scornful -- Some, not of the Church, unteachable;
those possessing more or less knowledge of holy things and
rejecting them, speaking of them lightly and scornfully.
R2698:4
The heart that is contentious and that sitteth in the seat of the
scornful is not in a condition to receive the blessings of the
Lord. R4475:3
Illustrated by one church which invited Dr. R. G. Ingersoll,
the agnostic, to preach to them. R1968:4
Psalm 1:2
But his delight -- The sentiment of our heart should be the

desire to get the divine mind as nearly as possible on every
subject. R5518:6
One thus isolated from the ungodly will have a delightful
experience. "I delight to do Thy will, O my God." (Psa.
40:8) R1383:3
Is in the law -- Three lessons for the Lord's faithful to
learn: (1) Meekness, humility; (2) Obedient faith, abiding
trust; (3) Love. R4483:6
Briefly comprehended in the word "Love." R2698:5
God's will and plan. R1383:3
Doth he meditate -- Not read carelessly. R2146:5*
Study. C89
A contemplative study to see how the Law would work out its
influence on oneself. R4838:3
Only in so doing can we receive the nourishment it is
designed to give. R1390:3
When the memory is stored with the words of divine
revelation, what food is furnished for prayerful meditation.
R2038:6
That its principles may be assimilated. R4835:4, R4838:3,
R5518.5
Psalm 1:3
Rivers of water -- God's grace and truth. R1383:3

Forth his fruit -- The fruits of the spirit. R2698:6
His leaf also -- His hopes. R2698:6
Shall not wither -- Become dead and barren. R1383:3
Whatsoever he doeth -- His aim is to glorify his Heavenly
Father. R2698:6
It will make happier homes, better husbands, better wives,
better children. It will sweeten the temper, soften the voice,
dignify the language, cultivate the manners, ennoble the
sentiments and lend its charming grace to every simple duty.
R4835:4, R1296:5
"All things shall work together for good to them that love
God, to the called according to his purpose." (Rom. 8:28)
R1646:4
Shall prosper -- Not because of our own wisdom in the
management of our affairs, but because our infallible Lord is
supervising our interests and outworking them for good to
him. R2699:4
Since God's plan shall prosper, their plan shall prosper; for his
plan is their plan. R1383:5
What matter if instead of earthly prosperity is brought
financial loss, if it work our spiritual gain? R2699:1
Psalm 1:4
The ungodly -- Those who wilfully prefer sin to

Are like the chaff -- Shall have no place after the Lord
has thoroughly cleansed the world and swept them into
oblivion. R1383:5
The wind driveth away -- The winds of false doctrine or
the storms of opposition. R605:6
Psalm 1:5
The ungodly -- The wicked (and slothful servants) shall

not stand in the assembly of the righteous. R2975:2
Shall not stand -- Though a thousand unfaithful shall fall
at his side and ten thousand at his right hand the faithful shall
stand and, in due time, receive the great reward. R606:1
Shall not continue to stand, but shall fall, pass away as the
chaff. R1383:5
In the judgment -- Of the Millennial age. R1383:6,
R1219:5
Nor sinners -- Violators of their covenant of consecration.
R1383:6
In the congregation -- Not permitted to continue, but cut
off in the Second Death. R1219:5, R1235:1
Psalm 1:6
Knoweth the way -- The judgment will determine who are

the lovers of righteousness. R1383:6
Of the righteous -- God's care is over the righteous. "The
Lord knoweth them that are his." (2 Tim. 2:19) R3155:6
The justified. R3156:1
Shall perish -- If justice be delayed it is only for the
development of some greater good than could be
accomplished by a speedy adjustment. R2025:5
Psalm 2
Psalm 2:1
Why do the heathen -- The nations. R1385:1

This Psalm is a prophecy of Jesus at his first advent and still
further of the entire Christ, including the Church, and their
final exaltation as the Millennial Kingdom. R1384:3
Though applied in Acts 4:25-27 to events connected with our
Lord's crucifixion, the fulness of the import belongs to the
time of the second advent. R1384:6
Rage -- Tumultuously assemble. A271
In the worldwide commotion and discontent already
prevailing. R1385:1
A vain thing -- As the cry of Peace, Peace, when there is
no peace. D239
Vain schemes, such as Communism, Socialism, Nihilism,
Anarchism. God's remedy is the only one that will cure.
R1385:1
Every nation in this war (1915) seems to believe itself God's
favored people whose ultimate mission is to rule the world.
They are all in error. R5788:3
Psalm 2:2
Kings of the earth -- Civil and ecclesiastical authorities.

D239
Set themselves -- In opposition. D52
The rulers -- Religious, financial, and political. R1385:1;
SM695:2
Take counsel together -- For the preservation of the
present inequities in the world by which they are profiting.
SM695:2
"Associate yourselves (unite), O ye people and ye shall be
broken in pieces; ... take counsel together and it shall come to
nought." (Isa. 8:9, 10) R1079:5
Against the LORD -- Against Jehovah. R1385:1
Against his anointed -- The Head of The Christ in the
Jewish harvest, and the feet members in the Gospel age
harvest. B263
The King, who has come to rule in righteousness and whose
presence and power is now forcing upon the minds of men the
perplexing questions of the hour. R1519:3
The kings of the earth do not know that by attempting to
uphold their present institutions they are really fighting
against the establishment of the Lord's Kingdom. R1385:1,
R1425:5
Psalm 2:3
Let us -- Jehovah and his Anointed. R1385:2

The kings and rulers of earth. D52
Those seeking freedom from the restraints of consecration.
R4707:1
Break their bands -- The restraints which the people are
putting upon them, seeking to reinaugurate a reign of
autocracy. SM695:2
The combinations of those who have banded themselves
together to oppose the setting up of the Kingdom. R1385:2
The Adversary still leads the world into all kinds of excesses
in the name of liberty. R4707:1
Their cords -- By which they endeavor to retain control of
their kingdoms. R1385:2
Psalm 2:4
Shall laugh -- The Lord shall have them and their

wonderful banding together in derision. R1385:2
"I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your
fear cometh." (Prov. 1:26) R1519:4
The Lord -- Adonai, Jesus. E48
Shall have them -- Their futile schemes. R1079:5
Psalm 2:5
Then -- Since they persistently neglect to heed his

warnings. D52
He -- The Lord. R5574:2
Them -- The world. R5574:2
In his wrath -- The great time of trouble just approaching.
R1385:3
Also merciful and gracious to those who will then turn unto
him. R5989:2
He who smites them in his wrath is also merciful and
gracious, unwilling that any should perish but desirous that
they should obey his counsels and live. R5989:2
Sore displeasure -- Hot and just displeasure. D631
Psalm 2:6
Yet -- Meanwhile. R1385:3

Have I -- Jehovah. D632; R1352:6
Set my king -- Anointed my king. A271
Already the Father has appointed our Lord as King, and will
soon deliver to him the power and glory of his office.
R5181:3
Since 1878 AD. R1914:2, R5990:2
Upon my holy hill -- The Kingdom of God. Dix;
OV272:3
Or "hill of the sanctuary," being the original site of the
Tabernacle, pitched by David for the reception of the Ark.
R1648:3
Psalm 2:7
I will declare -- He (Jesus) will first make plain to the

world that it is by the Father's decree that he takes possession.
R1385:4
The decree -- The decree is that the dominion shall be
taken from them, that he whose right it is shall take the
kingdom and that the nations shall be given to him for an
inheritance. D12
Thou art my Son -- God honored him in this way.
R5472:3; E72
"He that honoreth not the Son, honoreth not the Father which
sent him." (John 5:23) E72
Begotten thee -- Fulfilled when our Lord Jesus, at 30
years, consecrated himself wholly to the will and plan of God.
R1385:4
Borne, or delivered thee, from death by a resurrection.
R2149:6
Psalm 2:8
Ask -- The Redeemer will not ask for the world until his
Church will have been gathered to glory. R5493:4, R1385:4;
CR490:6, CR51:5; R4476:4, R5054:6; HG669:2
When Christ shall have paid over the ransom-price. R5683:3;
SM666:1
The Lord did not ask for his great power sooner. He was well
contented with the divine times and seasons. SM436:1
This worldwide dominion has not yet come to Messiah.
"Darkness covers the earth and gross darkness the heathen."
(Isa. 60:2) CR50:2; SM435:1
God will make his enemies his footstool. R5054:5
Pray for. R5493:4
Messiah, after finishing his work, shall make application for a
kingdom which divine providence has already arranged for,
and which divine prophecy has already foretold. R5492:3
Misapplied by the Papacy to the Papal Millennium.
HG268:6, HG269:1
Of me -- Jehovah. R5777:4, R5492:3
I shall give thee -- "The God of heaven shall set up a
kingdom." (Dan. 2:44) A308
It is Jehovah's power that will bring about the Millennial
victory of The Christ. R3079:5, R5492:2
This, we believe, is at the door because the Lord is about to
take possession of the Church. R5622:3, R4476:4
Our Lord will make application of the ransom-price for the
world. Then ignorance and superstition will be supplanted by
divine enlightenment. SM666:1; R4819:5
In "due time," when the Church shall have passed into
heavenly glory. SM666:1
During Messiah's reign the Lord Jesus will be given full
power and authority to control the world. This is the
particular business appointed to him. R5022:6
Messiah will take possession of man's inheritance purchased
by him for humanity at Calvary. The nations will become
Christ's by the conquering power of the time of trouble.
HG669:4
The heathen -- The nations. D12; Q29:4
Who are not now members of the household of faith.
R5777:4, R5493:4
God's due time for giving the heathen to Christ is in the
Millennial age and not in this Gospel age. R1710:4
For thine inheritance -- God is about to show the world
the true and beneficial operation of the Law of
Primogeniture. R1164:2
The King's Son is soon to receive his long-promised
inheritance. R5489:5
When the Church shall have inherited the Kingdom they will
be prepared to do the work of judging the world. R5776:4
Uttermost parts -- Jesus gained the right to control all for
whom he died. R43:5*, R483: 6*
Of the earth -- The purchased possession includes the
world of nature. R593:3
Psalm 2:9
Thou -- The Christ, Head and Body. B77, B100; R30:6*

Shalt break them -- In the great time of trouble just
approaching. R1385:3, R5527:4, R5493:4, R268:4,
R1092:2, R1095:1, R1692:5
When the selection of the Church shall have been completed.
CR51:5; SM441:1
When the work of destruction is accomplished the people will
return to the Lord and he will heal them. A256; R1869:3
The iron rod of Christ's rule must bring down every high
thing and subdue all things unto him. R1735:3
Breaking up all their former habits and customs as well as
breaking up present institutions founded upon these false
habits and false ideas of liberty. A302
He wounds to heal. The lessons of the time of trouble will be
salutary. R5493:4
Men must learn their own impotence and the true Master;
just as every colt must be "broken" before it is of value.
D378
The myriads of ignorant and barbarous heathen who have
gone down to the grave with lifelong habits of fierce passion
and deep degradation. HG31:2
The thousand-year period, known as the Millennium, is set
apart for this work. Q69:5
This does not commence until the sounding of the seventh
trumpet. HG13:6
This war (1915) was allowed to occur at about the end of the
Times of the Gentiles, the appropriate time when they are to
be dashed to pieces with the iron rod of the iron rule.
R5632:3
With a rod -- Symbol of divine authority. R4058:4
The rod will be merely for temporary service, bringing the
race back to their original privilege as kings of the earth.
R5377:4
He will rule with the iron rod to the intent that all mankind
may learn the divine law and have the divine blessing.
R4819:5
Of iron -- Of unbending and just retribution. R1423:2
With firmness and vigor, cutting off every opportunity to do
wrong to others or to oneself. A302
Shalt dash them -- By the tumult of contending factions.
R362:1
The Gentile governments. B77, B100
The present strife in Europe (1914-1918) is only the
beginning of the great trouble and overthrow of the nations.
R5735:4
Intimating that in some sense the Lord will take possession of
these before they have been completely overthrown. R5631:5
In the midst of the time of trouble. HG14:1
Everything appertaining to present institutions contrary to the
divine standards of justice will be rudely shaken and
eventually destroyed. R5493:4
As a result of manifesting the judgments of the lord in the
world. (2Thess 1:7-10) R5527:4
When "the kingdom is the Lord's and he is Governor among
the nations." (Psa. 22:27,28) R321:2
Jesus' title, the Prince of Peace, will not then apply to him.
R5136:4
In pieces -- "In the days of these kings shall the God of
heaven set up a kingdom, and it shall break in pieces and
consume all these kingdoms." (Dan 2:44) HG 75:5
Potter's vessel -- The existing institutions, those vessels of
the Adversary potter. SM717:1
Psalm 2:10
Be wise ... O ye kings -- Ye powers of Christendom. D52

Including financial kings. OV86:4
Those nations who heartily accept Messiah's rule will be
saved from the breaking process. SM441:3
Be instructed -- God's Word furnishes the only principles
which, if put in operation, would avert the dread calamity
now impending. R1369:1
Part of Messiah's Kingdom work will be to stop the anarchy
when it shall have done its work, when it shall have
demonstrated to the human race that nothing that man can do
will be able to help the race. R5567:2
Psalm 2:11
Serve the LORD -- The conditions of consecration for

mankind in the next age will not be sacrifice, but obedience to
God and his law of love. R442:6
With fear -- Respect. R442:6
With trembling -- "Let him that thinketh he standeth take
heed lest he fall." (1 Cor. 10:12) OV272:3; B300
Psalm 2:12
Kiss the Son -- Misapplied by the Pope to himself in

compelling kings and emperors to kiss his great toe.
OV272:3; B300; R54:4, R305:4; HG269:4
Make friends with the Son. A272
Yield cheerful, willing submission to the Lord. B300; A272
The Greek word translated "worship" in the New Testament
is proskuneo which signifies "to kiss the hand," as a dog
licks the hand of his master. The significance is reverence.
E72
God's last warning to Christendom. D52
Now or never (as nations) they may recognize their new king
by abandoning oppression and establishing justice. Now is
the time to concede to all men their natural rights. R713:4
Lest he be angry -- Lest he bring the threatened Day of
Vengeance. D52
Scriptures intimate that all nations will be found in violent
opposition to the heavenly Kingdom and hence will be
crushed as the vessels of a potter. CR51:6
But a little -- For his wrath may soon be kindled. A272
Are all they -- Primarily the consecrated Church as the
time of trouble draws near. R1385:5
Psalm 4
Psalm 4:1
Hear me -- It is supposed that the fourth Psalm and part of

the third were written regarding David's experience as an
exile from his capital. R4277:3
Psalm 5
Psalm 5:3
In the morning -- In the Millennial age. A9; E359
Psalm 5:4
Pleasure in wickedness -- The destruction of the

incorrigible after the final test will be a demonstration of
God's unceasing hatred of sin. R1782:1
Therefore God is not pleased to accept men without testing
and proving them as to whether, after full knowledge, ability
and choice, they will sincerely love the right and hate the
wrong. R1273:5
The very character of God demands that we become holy.
R5901:6*
Neither shall evil -- Nothing short of perfection can find
favor in God's eyes. R5902:1*, R1610:2
God permits evil for a time because he sees a way to make it a
valuable and lasting lesson to his creatures. A118; HG393:1
God could not excuse the sin, for he cannot look upon the
least sin with any degree of allowance. R386:6
Dwell with thee -- Every good cometh from God as the
good fountain. Evil, on the contrary, comes from sources in
opposition to God and his goodness. R870:6
We must in this life become Christlike, or perfect in
character; else we cannot eternally dwell with God.
R5902:1*
This does not signify a perfection of the flesh, which is an
impossibility; but a perfection of heart, of intention, of will,
of endeavor. R5902:1
Psalm 5:7
Thy holy temple -- The Christ. T70
Psalm 5:11
Ever shout for joy -- If suffering, are we rejoicing?

R4248:3*
We ought to rejoice, remembering that the Lord's dealings
were designed to work out a far more exceeding and eternal
weight of glory. R4248:2*
Thou defendest them -- It is profitable in many ways to
love the Lord. He has provided a place of safety during the
day of wrath for every trusting, loving child of his. R32:5*
That love thy name -- Those who love the name, the
character of God, are endeavoring by his grace to develop it.
R4248:2*
Psalm 6
Psalm 6:4
Deliver my soul -- It is the soul, the being, which is

destroyed. E361
Psalm 6:5
Is no remembrance -- There is no consciousness in hell.

E361; R4781:2, R552:6, R802:2*, R4363:4*; SM525:1;
HG511:1
"The dead know not anything." (Eccl. 9:5) R754:4*
Death is the "land of forgetfulness." (Psa. 88:11) CR209:2;
HG335:1
Therefore they can neither assent to, nor oppose, their
awakening. R1509:5
Man's probation or trial must occur, not in death, but before
the state of death has begun or after it has ended--in the
resurrection. R909:3*, R915:6
Even from the human standpoint it would be a short time for
each individual who would only have the few remaining years
of life before the Kingdom. R3180:6
Thus, when our Lord was dead he could not preach and the
dead of mankind could not hear. R4176:6
In the grave -- Sheol, oblivion, death, not torment. E361;
R828:6; HG216:2
Give thee thanks -- The text manifestly refers to the pious.
E361
Therefore the departed saints have not been praising the Lord
after their death all during the past ages. R1881:5
Psalm 7
Psalm 7:11
God is angry -- Righteous indignation against sin.

R5603:1
Anger in itself is not sin. R5417:5
Inability to be angry under proper cause would imply
imperfection. R3928:2
It would be improper for our Creator to refrain from righteous
indignation where there is a just cause; just as it would be
improper for him to be angry without a cause. R787:4
God is not so overbalanced in love that he cannot permit
justice thoroughly to scourge the race of condemned sinners.
R880:6
He tells us to be like him in our loves and hates--to hate sin
and love righteousness. R1251:1
The force of character which permits of anger is the very
same force which, otherwise directed, signifies intensity of
love. R3928:2
If we feel that anger is proper for us we should use a great
deal of discretion. "Be ye angry and sin not." (Eph. 4:26)
R5417:5
If any walk after the flesh and not after the spirit such will
proportionately lose the love of God. R3034:1
Psalm 7:15
Fallen into the ditch -- Those who dig pits for others are
likely to fall therein themselves. R2503:4
Which he made -- As illustrated by Haman and by those
who caused Daniel to be cast into the lion's den. R2503:1
Psalm 8
Psalm 8:2
The mouth of babes -- Foreshadowing the multitude's

shouting Jesus' praise as the Messiah, the Son of David.
R4670:4
Psalm 8:3
Consider thy heavens -- When we realize that the

countless stars are each one a solar system we are amazed and
feel our own littleness. CR188:5; R4972:2
Gaining thereby a high conception of the divine character.
R3313:4
Our solar system is a small fraction of God's creation.
Astronomers count 125 million suns and estimate that there
are millions of others further distant. SM467:2
How much more profitable is the consideration of the still
higher things revealed to the Gospel Church through the holy
Spirit since Pentecost. R3313:4
Psalm 8:4
What is man -- Man is of the earth, earthy, an earthly copy

of his heavenly Maker. "Let us make man in our image, after
our likeness." (Gen. 1:26) R1266:1; OV288:1
How little is man, how small a speck in the universe.
CR188:5
Orthodoxy falsely teaches that he is of two indestructible,
indistinguishable parts, soul and spirit, enclosed in a
prison-house of flesh. E302
Science says he is merely an animal of the highest type
known, and has evolution hopes. E304
The Bible says that he is a Nephesh, soul, sentient being,
composed of a body animated by Ruach, life-power,
sometimes called the spirit or breath of life, because sustained
by breathing. E308
Adam was the man preeminently in that he was the head of
the race of men, and in him resided the title to earth and its
dominion. E152
Art mindful of him -- In his present deplorable, fallen,
sinful condition. HG670:3
Not having forsaken the original plan. A175
God has provided a Savior, a way of restoration to divine
favor. CR317:5, CR189:6; R5140:3
And the son of man -- The posterity of Adam, the fallen
human race. E426
Thou visitest him -- Carest for him. R5291:4
Eventually, in the Times of Restitution. E426
Psalm 8:5
Thou hast made him -- Claimed by Popists to refer to the

Pope. B309
A little lower -- In intelligence and capacity. R3922:2
Only a little lower. CR189:2, R4972:3, R453:5
Not a little while, as if a matter of time; but clearly and
distinctly a little lower in degree. A175; R329:1; HG670:4
Not lower in the sense of being less than perfect, but a totally
different kind of being. R329:1
Consequently mortal. E390; R1879:4
On the earthly plane instead of the heavenly. R5837:3
God designed an order of beings adapted to the earth by
nature. R363:3, R470:3
Therefore the Redeemer must be on the same plane. R5025:5
Because Adam was not a spirit being he could not die a
spiritual death. CR131:1
As there is a vast difference between the conditions of
existence of a fish and a bird, so we may reasonably suppose
that there is just as wide a difference between the human and
the angelic conditions. Q769:5
Restored perfect men will still be a "little lower" than the
angels, while the glorified Church will be "so much better
than the angels." (Heb. 1:4) R637:5, R2317:5, R4176:1,
R616:2*, R852:4
Jesus was made alive from the dead in the divine nature, far
higher than the angels, while manhood is a little lower than
the angelic nature. R1228:2, R486:1; Q838:4
Than the angels -- Elohim, a name frequently applied to
Jehovah. E67, SM497:2
Like them, mortal; where death is a possibility. E390;
R4972:3
The highest of earthly creatures, and but a little removed in
intelligence from the angelic hosts. R2836:4
Fallen man cannot cope with the cunning of fallen angels.
R2172:5
Angels are the lowest in rank on the spirit plane and man is
the highest of all earthly beings. But man, even when perfect,
was a little lower than the angels because he was an earthly
and not a spiritual being. OV137:1; Q502:6; SM53:3;
R4774:3, R5837:3, R456:6, R506:6
Orders of spirit beings (all perfect) were made before men.
R5057:6, R4972:3; OV15:T
Man is lower than the angels as far as nature is concerned, but
this Psalm speaks of man as superior in that he has a
dominion. R4972:5
Man was not an angel, so he could not fall from the condition
of angels or fall from heaven; therefore he will not be restored
to being as an angel. CR279:2, CR269:4
Neither was Jesus a combination of the two natures, human
and spiritual. A179
Crowned him -- An earthly crown. SM153:3
As the king of all creatures on the animal plane. SM469:1
Originally in God's likeness and, as his representative, Adam
was the king of the earth. R1510:4
Glory and honour -- Of perfect manhood. E427;
R1794:1, R5417:3
As a son and heir of God, beloved and owned of God.
R1266:3, R5223:3
The moral likeness of his Creator. R2394:5
"Glory"--Adam was made in the image of his glorious
Creator. R5229:1; CRI73:1, CR279:3
Man was so grandly formed as to be able to receive and retain
life by the use of the means which God supplied, and never
grow dim. A208
Lost in sin and degradation, through disobedience.
Restitution to "honor" and life in God's favor was redeemed
for all by our Lord's sacrifice. R1761:3
Possessed by Jesus at his consecration, originally by Adam
before sin and death, and ultimately by the restored race at the
close of Jesus' glorious reign. R573:5
Men must discern God by his works, the noblest of which is
perfect man, made in his moral image on the earthly plane.
R4966:5
Glorious and honorable indeed will be the estate of men when
lifted up to perfection in Paradise restored. A191
Psalm 8:6
Thou madest him -- Mankind, in the person of Adam.

A247, R453:3
Both man, the sovereign of the earth, and woman, his joint-heir
and queen. R1552:2
It was purposed from the first--the Heavenly Father made
man the king of the earth. R5377:1
As a result of Adam's covenant with God. E27; CR326:2
To have dominion -- As an earthly representative of the
Creator. CR425:1; F722
"And thou, O Tower of the flock (Christ) ... unto thee shall it
come, even the first dominion." (Micah 4:8) E152
"Fill the earth and subdue it and have dominion." (Gen. 1:28)
B94
The Heavenly Father made man king of the earth. R5377:1,
R5403:6; CRI89:3
Adam had dominion over the earth, but none of the angels
were ever set over anything. R5290:3, R4972:5; CR189:3
Jesus took the place of father Adam with all his rights and
authorities. OV251:T, E152; R4452:1; Q224:T
The "likeness" of God (Gen. 1:26) in which man was created.
R2836:3
A likeness of the divine honor and rulership of the earth.
R871:3
Man stands related to the lower creatures as God does to the
entire universe. R4972:3, R3922:2; A174
Representing man as the crowning masterpiece of mundane
creation. R5140:3
Qualities of justice and judgment fitted him to be a ruler;
qualities of mercy and love prepared him to be a reasonable,
kind and wise ruler. R163:2, R417:1
The specialization in the case of man's creation is shown in
his vast superiority over the lower animals. PD7/13
Though Adam was privileged to be a great king, he himself
failed to be fully loyal to the Creator. CR425:2
The divine plan ultimately is to have mankind perfect, as the
lord of earth, controlling earth and its creatures in harmony
with the laws of the divine Creator. E426; HG669:1
With the restitution of perfect mental and moral balance to
man, the original king of the earth, will also come a blessing
to his subjects, the beasts of the field; and the ordering of the
earth itself is likewise promised. HG299:6
Peter, Jesus and all the prophets declare that the human race
is to be restored to human perfection and is again to have
dominion over earth as Adam had. R612:6, R2606:6,
R3572:3, R860:5
In "the fulness of times" there will be on the earthly plane
perfect fish, perfect birds, perfect beasts; and over and above
them all, their ruler, perfect man. R828:1, R4535:4
Typified by Job with his estate. R1507:4, R5403:6
The father of lies seduced Adam and robbed mankind of the
dominion, thus becoming the "prince (ruler) of this world."
R453:3
Works of thy hands -- The winds and waves, the light and
heat, the electric currents, the minerals and gases and liquids,
and vegetation in all its varied forms will freely minister to
his comfort and blessing. R1267:4
Hast put all things -- Divine power will put all things
under Messiah. (1 Cor 15:28) HG671:6
Under his feet -- The feet in this passage are figurative.
B157
All life on earth was subject to Adam. CR173:1, CR326:3
Psalm 8:7
All sheep and oxen -- The dominion is not to be over each

other, for when love controls there will be no necessity for
dominion over one another. R655:2
Beasts of the field -- To become docile and obedient to
mankind, as originally as a blessing of Christ's Millennial
reign. R1352:3
Naturally and without compulsion the beasts, cattle, fish, and
fowl will be man's willing servants. R1267:4
Psalm 8:8
Fish of the sea -- Claimed by the Pope to refer to those

who are in hell, agitated by its waves of affliction. B312
Psalm 9
Psalm 9:8
And he shall -- In the Millennial age. F396
Psalm 9:11
Dwelleth In Zion -- The spiritual Church of God. A297;

D23; T33
Psalm 9:15
That they made -- Those who dig pits for others are likely
to fall therein themselves. R2503:4
Psalm 9:17
The wicked -- Those who forget God after clear

knowledge. E361; R2610:1; HG498:5
This text applies to the time when the highway of holiness is
set up. R2610:2, R553:2
Saints and sinners all go into Sheol now. R553:5
Turned into hell -- Shub, returned, into Sheol, oblivion,
Second Death. E361; R2610:4; OV174:6; Q329:3
Into the condition of death. R553:2
Showing that some go into hell once, come out of hell, learn
of God, forget him and are returned to hell. HG734:3*
Since they are returned to hell, it must be to the Second
Death. R769:5, R1298:3*, R3084:1
Nations -- Goi, heathen, Gentiles, people. All who, under
that full knowledge, do not become Israelites indeed.
R2610:3
That forget God -- That do not become God's covenant
people. R2610:3
They must first have known him. Q329:2; R2610:1
Psalm 10
Psalm 10:4
Not In all his thoughts -- Their minds are distracted,

turned to unworthy and ignoble subjects that have a more and
more degrading influence upon them. R3893:2
God's Word is neglected by scientists; hence the proper
foundation for reasoning and judgment along geological lines,
for example, is lacking. R4825:5
Just as Israel failed to think of the Lord's will in their affairs.
R4277:1
Although the nations of Europe style themselves Christian
nations, not one of them manifests any faith in God. R5754:3
Psalm 10:6
In adversity -- Rendered "evil" in "I create evil." (Isa.

45:7) A125
Psalm 11
Psalm 11:1
Put I my trust -- Like David against Goliath, we must

battle in full reliance upon the Lord, using the sling and
pebble of truth. If we cannot conquer along these lines we
cannot conquer at all. R4216:6
Psalm 11:4
In his holy temple -- The Christ. T70
Psalm 11:6
Upon the wicked -- In the Day of Vengeance, the time of

trouble. D541
And in the testing season at the end of the Millennium. A303
Fire and brimstone -- Trouble and destruction. D541
Psalm 12
Psalm 12:5
Oppression of the poor -- The whole present order of

things shall be reversed, for the Lord shall espouse the cause
of the poor and needy. R1896:5
Psalm 13
Psalm 13:3
The sleep of death -- A condition of peaceful

unconsciousness. HG726:4
Dr. Trench says of this word sleep, "The reality of death is
not denied, but only the fact implicitly assumed that death
will be
followed by a resurrection, as sleep is followed by an
awakening." R2617:5
Heaven is not a sleeping place, but a place of joyful activity
and life. Neither could we imagine mankind as sleeping in a
Catholic purgatory or a Protestant hell. R5060:1
Psalm 14
Psalm 14:1
The fool -- One who ignores, or lacks, reason. HG528:1

The person who, after intelligent thought, concludes that there
is no God; that everything came to be what it is by chance.
SM467:3; R5210:3, R2834:2
Those who do not recognize the great First Cause, God, have
their intellects so perverted that they are fools. R2834:2
The study of creation is the key to knowledge. PD1/7
Blinded with pride and liberty of earthly wisdom, science
falsely so called. R525:4
So undeniable is the basis of fact in nature's testimony, and so
logical the reasoning from cause to effect, that the Bible
declares the man a fool who does not accept the conclusion
that there is an intelligent Creator. R1158:2
Said in his heart -- Even the "fool" says it to himself. It is
not a conclusion of reason, but an expression of a wish. He is
anxious to get rid of God in order that he may freely exploit
his folly. R3421:1
There is no God -- That each cranium makes its own god,
according to its own development of the qualities of wisdom,
justice, love and power. OV61:T
It is a self-evident truth that effects must be produced
by competent causes. HG528:1
Nature alone teaches that there is a God. R932:4, R2162:2;
HG528:1
Only 35% of the students in a large class at Columbia
University expressed their belief in a personal God. R3792:1
None that doeth good -- All have shared in Adam's sin and
its death sentence. All come short of the glory of God as
represented in the first perfect man. HG193:5
Psalm 14:3
None that doeth good -- None up to the standard of

perfection required by the Law; hence none approved by it.
R812:2*
None perfect, sound in either mind or body. R1080:2,
R1413:1
Psalm 14:7
Out of Zion -- The spiritual Church of God. A297; D23;

T33; R4474:2
Psalm 15
Psalm 15:1
Who shall abide -- It is not enough to consecrate

ourselves, for the consecration will avail nothing if we prove
unfaithful to it, except to rise in judgment against us.
R2154:5
The one ultimate standard of admission to blessedness in the
future is character. R800:5*
It is one thing to get in; another to stay in. R4240:5*
In thy tabernacle -- Wherever there are one or more loyal,
consecrated hearts, there is a dwelling place of God.
R2080:3*
Especially the glorious temple of God, which shall be the
dwelling place of the saints throughout eternity. R2080:5*
In thy holy hill -- The Kingdom of God. D628
Psalm 15:2
Walketh uprightly -- Implies the strictest integrity in our

dealings, both with God and with our fellowmen. R4808:5
The measure of our acceptableness is only to the extent that
we earnestly strive to attain actually to the standard of
perfection. R1295:6
Psalm 15:3
Taketh up a reproach -- A violation of the law of love.

We will not be against our brother unless he acknowledges
the wrong. Love will cover a multitude of sins. R4240:5*
Psalm 15:4
Is contemned -- He who sympathizes with the evildoer

whom God condemns is partaker of his evil deeds. R764:5
Sweareth -- Makes a solemn covenant to present himself a
living sacrifice to God. R2080:6*
And changeth not -- Carries out his part of the agreement
faithfully even though the covenant be unfavorable to him.
R3108:2, R4808:5
One cannot, by subsequently changing his mind, be released
from the obligations of consecration vows. R2080:6*
Having made a covenant, do not ignore its solemn obligations.
R2080:6*
Psalm 15:5
To usury -- Taking unjust advantage of the necessities of

others. R2155:1, R4808:5, R1994:6
The word "usury" is now always used to indicate oppressive
interest. Formerly its meaning was, simply, interest.
R1995:1
We do not understand the taking of reasonable interest to be
usury. R1994:5
If the party using the money is making something out of it, it
is not usury. R1994:6
Never be moved -- Such a one is a virtuous man, a man of
fortified or strong character. R2155:1, R4808:6
Psalm 16
Psalm 16:5
Lord is the portion -- Your life consisteth not in the

abundance of the things you possess. You are not dependent
upon these earthly things. R2130:6*
Psalm 16:6
Unto me -- The Lord does not keep any who do not make
the proper effort to know the will of God. R5501:4
In pleasant places -- What a flood of glory now shines
upon the path of the saints. R5501:2
Psalm 16:7
Given me counsel -- Thus Jesus, the Great Teacher,

would be himself taught of Jehovah. E51
Psalm 16:8
At my right hand -- Signifies the chief place, next to the

chief ruler. A92; R2089:5
Psalm 16:10
Not leave my soul -- Fulfilled in Jesus' being raised from

the dead. R5832:1; Q668:1; SM526:1
We are particularly told that it was the soul of Jesus that was
raised from the dead. R5017:2, R5612:4; SM25:2;
CR290:3; HG245:6; R3854:5
"He, seeing this before, (prophetically) spake of the
resurrection of Christ." (Acts 2:31) R2600:6
Cannot refer to David personally, for his soul was left in
hades and his body did see corruption. R2600:6, R5832:1;
HG121:3
Our Lord's soul was not left in Sheol, but God did not give
him back the body he died with. HG204:6
The act of baptism represented, in the one act of going into
the water and rising from it, his going down into death and his
trust in the Father's promise that he should not be left in
death. R444:6
In hell -- Sheol, oblivion, death; not torment. R5154:3;
SM30:T, SM526:1; Q668:1; E348, E362
"He hath poured out his soul unto death." (Isa.53:12) E362
The Lord Jesus was in hell during the three days following his
crucifixion. Q784:2
Compared with Acts 2:27-31, a proof that the word hades in
the New Testament is the exact equivalent of the word Sheol
in the Old Testament. SM526:1; HG511:2
Holy One -- Hebrew, ghahseed; literally, God-seed,
meaning saint. HG26:2
To see corruption -- The removal of the crucified body
from the tomb was also miraculous, for it did not see
corruption, nor was a bone of it broken. R1817:4
We incline to the opinion that his flesh, man's ransom
price, will never see corruption, but that it will be
preserved as an everlasting testimony of the grace of God.
R2478:6
The body would vanish, be dissipated or dissolved, without
corrupting or decaying. R666:2
The New Testament writers record the fulfillment of these
predictions in Jesus of Nazareth. A58
Psalm 16:11
Thou wilt shew me -- Cause to have a knowledge of. E52

If meekly desirous of being shown and honestly in doubt of
God's teaching on a subject. R1256:3
The path of life --The narrow way, with its strait entrance.
R814:1*
God made known to our Redeemer step by step the path that
would lead to the glorious consummation. CR158:3
Our Lord was shown that the path of sacrifice meant the path
to glory; similarly, he shared this light with his followers.
R4155:4
"I am the door" (John 10:7) --the door of opportunity, the
way of access to eternal life. R1647:3
In thy presence -- No matter where we are. R1949:5
By and by in the immediate presence of God. R1949:2
Instituting a lively and delightful fellowship with God,
which is the chief end of human existence, both on the side of
the creature and of the Creator. R2031:3
Fulness of joy -- If any of God's children is not happy in
him, he is living below his privileges. R1949:5
"Ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy maybe full."
(John16:24) R1949:5
At thy right hand -- To which we may approach by
prayer. F679
A place of favor and power. R2089:5, R655:6, R1394:1,
R2607:5; A92
There are pleasures -- True happiness can come only to
those who form a character modeled after that of the
Heavenly Father. R1840:6
For evermore -- Beginning in the present life. R1949:2
Psalm 17
Psalm 17:8
Apple of the eye -- The true Church, espoused to Christ.

D29
Psalm 17:15
I shall be satisfied -- It will more than compensate for all

the little things you suffer and endure now. CR462:6
We will not attain full satisfaction until we experience our
resurrection change. R4558:1, R4810:2, R1387:6
We may be content now, but we shall be satisfied only when
we get those eternal verities of which we now have only the
promise or hope. SM739:3
By faith we are satisfied and rest in hope--actually we shall
be satisfied when we awake in his likeness. R3730:6
Nevertheless, there is a measure of satisfaction to our
drinking, even in the present time. R4132:5
The prophets of past ages will likewise be satisfied when they
awake with God's likeness as Adam had it. R613:2
When I awake -- In the first resurrection. R1703:4,
R2671:6
Death is a condition of unconsciousness, rest and quiet.
R5059:6
With thy likeness -- Christ in the likeness of the Father.
T67
The Church in the likeness of its head, having the divine
nature. T67; A222; E140; R4966:5; CR117:4
Mankind in the likeness of the man Jesus. E140
There are two likenesses spoken of in the Bible--the likeness
of men and the likeness of God. R89:1
"It doth not yet appear what we shall be, but we know that
when he shall be revealed, we shall be like him, for we shall
see him as he is." (1 John 3:2) R4675:3; CR117:4
Psalm 18
Psalm 18:2
And the horn -- Horns are symbols of power. T42
Psalm 18:5
The sorrows of hell -- The bonds of Sheol, oblivion, the

fear of death. E362
A figure in which trouble is represented as hastening one to
the tomb. R2599:3
Prevented me -- Seized me. E362
Psalm 18:7
The earth shook -- Verses 7 to 19 give a vivid description

of the awful time of trouble. R5735:4
Psalm 18:10
He rode upon a cherub -- Jehovah is frequently spoken of

as dwelling between, or above, the cherubim. R529:6*
Psalm 18:12
And coals of fire -- To batter down man's pride,

selfishness, and prejudices, and consume these. B153
Psalm 18:14
Sent out his arrows -- Divine truth slaughtering the hosts

of error. R5493:6; CR164:4; SM51:T
See comments on Psalm 45:5
Shot out lightnings -- Diffusions of knowledge. R511:2
Psalm 18:19
Brought me -- The David class, heirs of the Kingdom.

R4242:6*
Large place -- The place of freedom. R4243:1*
The place of justification and consecration--seated with Christ
in heavenly places. R4243:2*
Delivered me -- In two ways--deliverance out of the
vexations and deliverance in the distresses. R4243:2*
Either by removal of difficulties, or by increased grace and
ability to stand the trials. R4243:2*
Not as individuals, but as members of the Body of Christ.
R4243:2*
Not necessarily from financial troubles, but he will give us
peace and rest. R5218:1
Psalm 18:25
Shew thyself merciful -- If we come to God's Word as

reverent students, expecting to find therein the delineation of
the character and plan of God, it will be revealed to us.
R3337:1
Psalm 18:26
With the pure -- A person's idea concerning God is a fair

index of his relation toward God. R139:6*
The froward -- These can warp and twist the Scriptures to
suit their own ideas. R3337:1
Psalm 18:27
High looks -- "A haughty spirit precedes a fall." (Prov

16:18) R3337:2
Psalm 18:28
Enlighten my darkness -- To those humble and faithful

ones whom the Lord has been leading. R3337:4
Psalm 18:29
By thee I have -- "I can do all things through Christ which

strengtheneth me." (Phil. 4:13) R2154:3
Through a troop -- Of opposing enemies. R3337:5
Over a wall -- Of bondage into the glorious liberty of a
son of God. R3337:5
Psalm 18:30
As for God, his way -- God's way is his plan or purpose,

that which he purposes to accomplish, and which is steadily
working out. R3336:3
Is perfect -- Just, merciful, wise, benevolent, practicable
and sure of a glorious termination. R3337:5
Nothing short of perfection can find favor in the eyes of God.
R1610:2
God created man perfect, in his own image or likeness, not in
the image and likeness of a monkey. CR208:6*
But we received our lives from our parents, and so on back to
father Adam. Our first parents sinned, and thus the curse of
death came upon the race. HG650:2
Our blemishes came to us from our parents, not from God.
R2285:1
Therefore God is not the author of sin. R1225:2, R1782:4
Therefore we are to be so fully in accord with God's
arrangements that we will not be disturbed or distressed by
the fact that some will go into the Great Company and that
others will go into the Second Death. Q498:7
Is tried -- When fully understood it will stand the test of
every argument that could be formed against it as to its
justice, wisdom and benevolence. R3337:5
He is a buckler -- A defense. R3337:5
Psalm 18:31
For who is God -- Who is mighty. R3337:5

Who is a rock -- A safe anchorage to our souls. R3337:5
Psalm 18:46
The LORD liveth -- Securely anchored in him, we may

trust and not be afraid.) R3337:5
Psalm 19
Psalm 19:1
The heavens declare -- By their numberless multitude,

their orderly grouping, their continual yet never conflicting
movements, their perfect harmony, their magnitude and
mutual benign influence. R1391:1
Much more shall his intelligent creatures exhibit, in variety,
the glory of his power. A188
But many wise men who study these wonderful works of God
do not appreciate the love of God. They have a certain
knowledge of his power, but few appreciate his character.
R5717:2
The glory of God -- Speaking of an intelligent designer,
wisely adapting means to good and benevolent ends, and
ministering to the necessities of his intelligent creatures.
R1562:6
We stand awestruck at the immensity of space and at the law
and order which everywhere reign. R5210:3
An appreciation of the infinite power of the Creator and of
our own littleness should make us teachable. PD1/7
The magnificent pageantry of the heavens, daily and nightly
should elicit our praise and adoration. R1815:1
They tell of the order and harmony of the circling spheres,
and of the benevolent purposes of God. R1560:3
Psalm 19:2
Sheweth knowledge -- Of the immensity of creation.

SM467:2
Psalm 19:3
Is not heard -- Their voice is heard by some; by those who

have a hearing ear. R3848:2
Psalm 19:4
Is gone out -- Shall go. This proves that the Gentiles shall
yet have this Gospel preached to them. R1970:5
Psalm 19:7
The law of the LORD -- The law of love. R1462:5

Margin, doctrine. R524:2*
Is perfect -- "The law is holy, and the commandment holy,
and just and good." (Rom. 7:12) R1462:2*
How true these prophetic declarations are may be
comprehended only by those who have learned to appreciate
the Word of God. R3609:2
The Jews perceived that such was his covenant with them--
obedience was rewarded; disobedience was punished.
R4922:6
Converting the soul -- Transforming the being. R4923:5
Completely turning us from sin to righteousness if we give
heed to it. R1296:2, R4834:6, R276:6
Only what the Bible teaches should be believed. R4923:3*
It deters from sin, encourages toward righteousness, gives
consolation in trouble, strength and courage for fear and
quaking, wisdom in times of perplexity. R3609:2
Other influences may lead to temporary and partial changes of
course and action, but only God's revealed truth can change
being, character, soul. R1391:1
The testimony -- The instruction. R1296:2, R4834:6
Of the LORD Is sure -- Not doubtful, but clear and
positive. R1391:2
Making wise the simple -- The meek, teachable ones--
clearly pointing out to them the ways of righteousness.
R4384:6, R1296:2
A right understanding of God's Word not only adds to the
wisdom of the wise, but also maketh the wise simple.
HG315:1
The humble. HG471:1
Those with no other desire than to know God's will. R524:2*
Psalm 19:8
The statutes -- Piqqudim, appointments, appointed plans.

R1391:2
Decrees, ordinances and precepts. R4834:6
Are right -- The infallible rules of righteousness. R4834:6
Rejoicing the heart -- The plan of the ages rejoices the
hearts of all who come to a knowledge of it. R1391:2
Of the obedient. R4834:6
The commandment -- Mitsvah, precepts or teachings.
R1391:2
Enlightening the eyes -- Showing us clearly the certain
ends of righteousness and unrighteousness. R1391:2
Giving us right ideas of justice, love, etc. R524:2*
Psalm 19:9
The fear -- Yirah, reverence. R1391:2

Of the LORD is clean -- Not a menial, servile fear; but a
noble fear, begotten of love; a fear of falling short of his
approval. R4834:6, R1296:2, R1391:2
The judgments -- Mishpat, ordinances, decrees.
R1391:2
Of the LORD -- Expressed by his holy apostles and
prophets. R2057:6
Altogether -- His judgments as to right or wrong in any
manner are always correct. R524:4*
Psalm 19:10
Are they -- The Law and the testimony of the Lord.

R4834:6, R1296:2
Psalm 19:11
Moreover by them -- By the judgments or decrees of the

Lord as to the course of righteousness or of unrighteousness
with its rewards and penalties. R1391:3
Is thy servant -- The faithful servant who meditates on
these things. R1391:3
Warned -- Concerning the dangers of the way and the
snares of the Adversary. R4835:1, R1296:2
In keeping of them -- In remembering and harmonizing
with them. R1391:3
Psalm 19:12
Who can understand -- Guard against, by his own

wisdom and foresight. R1391:4, R1296:2, R4835:1
His errors -- Rightly judge himself by using merely his
own fallible judgment without the Word of God. R1296:3,
R4835:1, R4524:1
Cleanse thou me -- The prophet recognized that he was
not capable of cleansing himself. R5739:3
To strive against outward sin while neglecting the beginnings
of sin in the secrets of one's own mind is attempting a right
thing in a very foolish way. R2249:1
From secret faults -- Those he did not see himself. We
should pray to the Lord that he would show us whatever in
our lives is not fully pleasing and acceptable to him. R5739:3
Imperfections and faults of the mind, unknown to anyone but
ourselves and the Lord. Suggestions of pride or avarice or
envy, if entertained, become secret faults. R2248:3
"All things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him whom
we have to do." (Heb. 4:13) R2094:4*
Psalm 19:13
Presumptuous sins -- Which must first have their roots in

secret faults. R2249:1
To presume signifies to take for granted without authority or
proof. R4835:1
Presuming to approach God in our own righteousness.
R1836:6
Such as presuming that the Lord "Takes the will for the deed"
instead of actually "keeping" his words. Love is the measure
of our obedience, and vice versa. R1802:3*
Dictation to the Lord. A191
Sins of pride or of arrogant self-will which do not meekly
submit to the will of God. R4835:2, R1296:4
The perversion of what he has revealed, or claiming and
holding tenaciously any doctrine merely on the ground of
fallible human reasoning. R4835:1, R1296:4, R1391:5
Illustrated by the strange fire offered by Nadab and Abihu.
R1836:5
It is best to "wait upon the Lord." R1959:1*
Not appreciating the necessity for the precious blood of
Christ. Q548:2
Great transgression -- Willful, deliberate, intentional sin.
R2249:1
The sin unto death referred to by the Apostles. (1 John 5:16;
Heb. 6:4-6; Heb. 10:26-31) R4835:2
Psalm 19:14
Let the words -- A prayer appropriate to all the Lord's

people. R3305:6, R2240:4
Even the most advanced of the Lord's people are liable at
times to err with their lips. R3305:6
What a fearful responsibility attaches to the tongue that wags
in an evil, or even in a flippant, way--which is also
dishonoring to God. R1938:2
Meditation of my heart -- Begin with the heart. Harbor
no thoughts that in any sense of the word would be evil.
R4803:3
Not manifest to fellow-men until expressed in word or action,
but all open and manifest to God. R1296:1
Be acceptable -- Nothing short of purity of heart, will,
intention, can be acceptable to God. R5123:4
We are to measure ourselves continually by this standard.
R5123:4
In thy sight -- With what confusion and chagrin would we
greet the sudden appearance of a friend of high and noble
character while we were in the midst of some ignoble
transaction! God is just such a friend, always present.
R1295:6
Psalm 20
Psalm 20:2
Out of Zion -- The spiritual Church of God. A297; T33
Psalm 20:7
Trust in chariots -- Symbols of worldly organizations.

C316
And some in horses -- Symbols of doctrinal bobbies.
C316
Remember the name -- Christians must cultivate the spirit
of praise by calling to mind the works of the Lord. R2031:6
Psalm 21
Psalm 21:3
Crown of pure gold -- Symbol of the divine nature. T18
Psalm 21:9
And the fire -- Destruction of his foes in the time of

trouble. R5761:6; A318
Psa. 22:T
A Psalm of David -- David may have spoken of himself,

but Jehovah guided his utterance, and made him thus to
represent Messiah. R436:2, R1364:2
Psalm 22
Psalm 22:1
My God, my God -- Jews read from Psalm 22 and cried

aloud these words at the wailing place in Jerusalem. C275*
Forsaken me -- There came a time when the gate of earth
and the door of heaven were both closed to Jesus. He hung
suspended between the earth and heaven; he had given up
earth at his consecration, and now the door of heaven was
also closed. R4529:5*
Such a dark moment might be permitted to even the most
worthy followers of the Lamb. F143
Psalm 22:11
None to help -- Pray, pleading our need. R5380:5*
Psalm 22:14
It is melted -- As every particle of the meat offering was

exposed to the fire. R84:2*
Psalm 22:18
Part my garments -- Minutely fulfilled. R1394:5,

R3370:3
Little did the soldiers think, as they divided his garments, that
they were fulfilling prophecy. R3901:5
Upon my vesture -- Symbolizing the righteousness of
Christ, which can be appropriated only as a whole. R2474:1
Psalm 22:22
Unto my brethren -- The Little Flock, the Bride class.

R5007:1
Who have received the spirit of adoption. E109
Psalm 22:23
That fear the LORD -- Perfect love casts out slavish, but
not reverential, fear. R2289:4
Psalm 22:25
My vows before them -- Nothing in the Scriptures

intimates that our Vow to the Lord must be kept secret.
Indeed, our baptismal vow we are required to symbolize or
profess publicly. R4266:4
Psalm 22:26
The meek shall eat - The table of the Lord has been spread for
his Church from the very beginning of the Gospel age, and
has always been supplied with meat in season. R1899:2
Psalm 22:27
Shall remember -- The resurrected ones shall have

personalities identical to those with which they went into the
grave, able to recall their former degraded conditions.
R360:5, R604:3*
Turn unto the LORD -- In due time. (1 Tim 2:4)
SM311:1
The Christian church has been right in believing in the
eventual conversion of the world, but it is the work of the
Kingdom and not of the Gospel age. HG14:2
All the kindreds -- Including those who have perished
from the earth, for the Scriptures assure us of the awakening
of all the sleeping millions of earth's population. HG434:2
Worship before thee -- "All nations shall come and
worship before thee" (Rev 15:4); the ultimate result of the
work of Christ. R99:2*
Psalm 22:28
Kingdom Is the LORD'S -- The conversion of the world

is not due while the devil is "the prince of this world."
R532:4, R256:4, R321:1, R5:2
Psalm 22:29
Keep alive his own soul -- The soul can be destroyed by

its Creator. R1882:1; HG334:5
Psalm 23
Psalm 23:T
A Psalm of David -- Himself a shepherd, one of a group

that might be termed an intellectual and thinking class of
people. R2556:5
Psalm 23:1
The LORD -- Jehovah. E45; F251, F396

Jehovah, the great over-shepherd, appointed his Son to be the
under-shepherd. R5490:1, R2706:5
In David's day, the arrangements for the shepherd and the
flock of John 10:1-16 had not been completed. R2672:1
All the features of this Psalm are applicable to our Redeemer
himself, as well as to his followers. R5653:6
Is my shepherd -- Jehovah is the shepherd in the largest
sense of the word; Jesus is the great shepherd to all the flock;
every local elder is a shepherd in a local capacity. F251
Fed by Messiah "in the strength of Jehovah." (Mic 5:4) E45
Originally the Jewish nation constituted this flock, David
himself being one of the sheep. R5490:2
In the present time, the Little Flock only. R3268:3, R1396:2
The only begotten Son is called the Lamb of God, and all his
people are styled his sheep. R2441:2
Of the antitypical David--Christ, Head and Body. R4851:3,
R5490:3
The shepherd has particular care over the affairs of spiritual
Israel. R5490:2, R5491:1
Sheep are meek, docile; when they hear the voice of the
shepherd, they run to obey it. R3116:2
I shall not want -- Temporal necessities. "Bread shall be
given him; his waters shall be sure." (Isa. 33:16) R1745:2,
R4279:3
Light. "Unto him shall be given the light of life." (John 8:12)
R1745:2
Care and discipline. "Whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth
and scourgeth every son." (Heb 12:6) R1745:5, R4279:3
Consolation and fellowship. "I will never leave thee nor
forsake thee." (Heb 13:5) R1745:5
Anything. "All things work together for good to them that
love God." (Rom 8:28) R1396:3, R5654:2
The only condition connected with this promise is that we
shall abide in his love and follow his directions. R4279:3
Those who are proper sheep trust wholly to his guidance, and
are thus relieved of that anxious craving so common to the
world. R3269:2
Though the promises of God's Word may not hinder us from
feeling pain, they will modify the pain and its frequency.
R2083:3
Psalm 23:2
To lie down -- To rest, the rest of faith. R3116:5,

R4279:5
This rest, this peace of heart, is absolutely essential to our
development as New Creatures. R4279:5
In green pastures -- Of spiritual refreshment, private
devotions, studies of divine things, and Christian fellowship.
R3269:3
Being spiritually fed and refreshed. R5654:2
We shall be bountifully fed with meat in due season.
R1396:5
He leadeth me -- Away from the strife of worldly
ambition. R3269:4
Divine leading is necessary to find the streams of truth and
grace. R3269:4
To appreciate the desirableness of his ways and the
undesirableness of every other way. R5654:3
Shielding us from every foe and the dangerous pitfalls that lie
in our path R5490:6
The still waters -- The deep waters of Present Truth.
R3295:6
Streams of truth and grace. R3269:4, R5654:2
Living, but comparatively quiet waters. R3269:4
Psalm 23:3
Restoreth my soul -- Justified me to life. R3269:5,

R1396:5
He brings me back to himself. R5654:3
In the paths -- The path marked out by the Word of the
Lord as one of meekness, faith, patience, love, etc. R1646:5
Of righteousness -- Suitable for spiritual development.
R3269:5
All his ways are perfect, righteous. R5654:3
For his name's sake -- Because we are his and because we
trust in his name, in his merit. R1396:5
Because I am his child I bear his name. R3116:5
His promise is involved; his honor is at stake. R4280:1
Psalm 23:4
Yea, though I walk -- In common with all the rest of the

world of mankind. R3269:5, R5654:3
Through the valley -- Far below the mountaintops of life
and perfection. R360:3
The valley of sin, with its broad road to destruction and its
narrow way to life. R3269:5
The farther we go into this valley the darker it becomes, until
the last spark of life expires. R15:2
Of the shadow -- The journey of life, since the fall, has
been through a vale of tears, upon which rests the shadow of
death. R3116:5
Lingering on the brink of death. T90
Of death -- I was born in this valley and I shall die in it.
R1396:5
We have been in this valley for more than 6000 years, but the
end of it is near. R4280:2, R5654:4
I will fear no evil -- No failure of thy sure covenant.
R1396:5
Because the Shepherd is with us. R4280:3
They realize that divine love has provided a redemption
R3269:6
We should seek to drive away our fears, giving heed to God's
Word, having it before our minds and considering its precious
promises concerning God's love and care. Q272:2
For thou art with me -- Even here. R1396:5
Thy rod -- Such chastisements as are necessary to correct
me and to bring me back into fellowship with the flock.
R2672:5, R4663:1
And thy staff -- Of promise and hope. R1396:5
Of providential care. R1721:3
A rod for our correction; a staff for our relief, assistance, and
protection. R4280:3
Even straying sheep the Shepherd will not leave. R5654:2
If one becomes overcharged with the cares of this life the
Lord may permit affliction or disaster to teach a lesson that
could not otherwise be learned. R4663:1
They comfort me -- Protect me from difficulties and
defend me from enemies. R3269:6
"Before I was afflicted I went astray." (Psa. 119:67) F648
The rod and the staff are designed to bring back the sheep
from some course leading in the wrong direction, away from
the Shepherd's footsteps. F648
Psalm 23:5
Thou -- As my host. R3270:1

Preparest a table -- To the end that his children should be
so full of happiness as to bubble over all the time. R1494:2
Divine truth. R3270:2
Clean, good, orderly, bountiful, beautiful. (Contrast Isa.
28:8) R1475:2
The Lord girds himself and sets before us rich things from his
storehouse--things old and new. R4280:5, R3455:5
Especially since his presence. R4280:5
The privilege of feasting at this table, even when
misunderstood and opposed, represents God's provision and
favor to his people. R5654:4
Of mine enemies -- The Adversary and the wicked spirits
in high places. R3270:1
They see the bounties and feel jealous, but refuse to accept
the good things we would so freely share with them.
R3396:1
Anointest my head -- Christ Jesus, the Head of the Body.
R5654:5, R3270:4
With oil -- Symbol of the holy Spirit. T116
My cup -- Both of joy and sorrow, sweet and bitter;
represented in the communion cup. R3270:4, R5654:5
Our cup is full, but we would not wish it one drop less.
R5654:5
It represents sorrows unto death. R4555:5
Runneth over -- A cup of joy and of sorrow; in both
respects it overflows. R3270:4, R4280:6, R4555:5
Psalm 23:6
Surely goodness -- The few who can join in this

expression of confidence have therein a great joy and rest of
heart which none others possess. R5425:2
Shall follow me -- "Pursue me" appears to be the stricter
translation. R4280:6
It has already begun, and will follow beyond the veil.
R3270:4
God's goodness and mercy, following us every day and every
moment, making all things work together for our good.
R5654:6
And I will dwell -- In the present life, through faith.
R2642:5
In the house -- The heavenly state, in the Father's house
on high. R3270:5, R5654:6; CR92:3
Of the LORD for ever -- As his child, a member of his
household. R3116:5
He will be our Shepherd to the end of the way, receiving us
into the glorious condition at the end of the journey. CR92:3
Psalm 24
Psalm 24:T
A Psalm of David -- Supposed to have been sung as a

marching accompaniment as the procession returning the Ark
was entering Jerusalem. Seven choirs formed part of the
procession. R4260:4, R5680:4
Psalm 24:1
The earth -- The joint care of which, with its fulness, was
committed to mankind by God as a stewardship. D310
The symbolic earth, the new social order. R3113:3
Is the LORD'S -- From the time that "the kingdoms of
this world become the kingdom of our Lord and of his
Christ." (Rev. 11:15) R3113:3
The fulness thereof -- Every good and every perfect gift
cometh down from the Father through the Son. R5680:5
Psalm 24:2
Upon the seas -- After God had said "Be still" to the
restless sea-element of society. R3113:6
The new earth will be established upon the ruins of the old.
R3113:6
God is founding his new order of things in the midst of seas
of discontent. R5680:5
The new earth will be stablished where the sea now is; the
class symbolized by "the sea" shall be no more--"There shall
be no more sea." (Rev 21:1) R1814:2
Upon the floods -- Replacing anarchy. R3113:6
Psalm 24:3
Who shall ascend -- Go as true subjects, loyal citizens,

no longer aliens and strangers. R3114:1
Hill of the LORD -- Jerusalem was built on a double-top
mountain, symbolizing the unity of the kingly and priestly
qualities in the glorified Church, and also the heavenly and
earthly phases of the Kingdom. A301
After the time of trouble there will be only one mountain, or
hill, left--the Kingdom of God. R3114:1
Who shall stand -- Be counted worthy to remain.
R3114:1
In his holy place -- The spiritual phase of the Kingdom of
God. A301; D582; R5680:5
Psalm 24:4
He -- Whether as an heir or as a subject of the Kingdom.

R3114:2
Hath clean hands -- An honest life. D582
Clean actions, clean conduct, determined opposition and
resistance to sin in all its forms. R3114:2
Righteous living to the best of one's ability. R5680:5
The one ultimate standard of admission to blessedness in the
future is character. R800:5*
A character which is the outcome of true faith exercised unto
godliness. R3114:2
Free from self-emulation and human glorying. R2275:1
Among whom the delusions of error can make no headway.
R2275:1
The best provision which parents can make for their children
for the time of trouble is to give them faithful instruction in
And a pure heart -- An honest heart. R5680:5
Void of offense towards God and man. D582
A will, intention or purpose that always, like the needle to the
pole, turns toward righteousness, truth, purity, cleanliness of
person, clothing, language, habits, and companionship.
R3114:4
A single-hearted purpose to glorify God and bless fellow
men. R2275:1
Lifted up his soul -- Aspired to be great, or good, or wise
in the eyes of men. R2275:2
Unto vanity -- But is humble, meek, modest, candid and
sincere. R3114:4
Cultivating no earthly ambition or pride, but patiently waiting
for the glory to follow the course of present self-sacrifice.
R3826:5
Nor sworn deceitfully -- Ignoring or despising his
covenant with God. R3114:5, R3826:5, R5680:6, R2275:2
Psalm 24:5
He shall receive -- Those who have done all they have

covenanted to do. R5680:5
The blessing -- The promised share in the Kingdom.
R3826:6
And righteousness -- Perfection, full deliverance from
present imperfections. R3826:6
Psalm 24:6
That seek thy face -- None can obtain God's blessings

without seeking them through Christ. R3114:5
O Jacob -- O God of Jacob. (Margin) R3114:5
Psalm 24:7
The King of glory -- Jehovah. E44

We are still waiting for the entrance of this King of Glory in
the full sense of the word. R5680:6
The Pope is the imitation "king of glory." R1002:3
Psalm 24:8
Mighty in battle -- In the time of trouble. D549
Psalm 25
Psalm 25:9
The meek -- The fully consecrated children of God who

have laid aside their own ways and thoughts to both know and
to walk in God's ways. R1023:2
Those who hear the Master's voice by whomsoever he speaks.
R1574:3
Ones willing to leave the confession found to be false and the
denomination found to be in error. R1305:5
If you are honestly in doubt as to God's teaching, and meekly
desirous of being shown, God is ready and willing to lead you
into the truth. R1256:3
Guide in judgment--Guidance for the knowing of his will.
R590:1*
Thus the results of the consecrated deliberations of the
Church should be accepted by all as the mind of the Lord.
R1891:6
The spirit of a sound mind leads one to accept God's
instructions and reject his own faulty judgment. R5095:4
All classes of mankind need divine instruction. R5370:1
Meek will he teach -- It is to those who are meek that
Jesus was sent to preach the good tidings. (Isa. 61:1)
R3103:3
As we seek to teach the meek, let us see that we also maintain
a meek, childlike spirit. R957:4
Before honor is humility, and before exaltation is humiliation.
R764:5
Self-confidence hinders the seeing of truth. R2882:3
"God resisteth the proud." (Jas. 4:6) R5370:4
The meek are the only ones in a position to receive
instruction. R5370:4
The proud and haughty, therefore, are very unsafe spiritual
guides. R2241:3
Psalm 25:10
All the paths -- God will bring order out of present

confusion. R2334:6
"And we will walk in his paths." (Isa. 2:3; Mic. 4:2)
R2334:6
Psalm 25:14
Secret of the LORD -- The deep things of God, the divine

plan. R5989:5, R2208:3, R5462:4
"The mystery" --revealed only to the saints and hidden from
all others. (Col. 1:26) R4492:1, R4715:2
That we should be fellowheirs, and of the same nature as our
Redeemer. (Eph. 3:6) SM152:2
The full import of the great oath-bound promise. R5285:3
In the secret of the Lord's presence an armament of grace and
truth is specially provided. SM289:2
The principle of keeping secret the divine purpose, yet
providing a key to its understanding in due time, can be
illustrated by the time-lock of a bank. OV6:2
Is with -- So that the Lord's consecrated people might
know of the time in which we are living and be more and
more quickened, energized and separated from the world and
its spirit. HG399:1
Them that fear him -- Such as have made a covenant with
the Lord by sacrifice. R4666:3, R5462:4, R5039:2;
SM457:3; Q719:7; CR9:4, CR10:3, CR90:4, CR92:2
But not with others, not even Satan--to whom, no doubt,
much of the Word is obscure. A171; D611, D612;
R4492:1, R4631:3; OV65:3; CR10:1, CR92:2; Q621:2
It is the due time to open up things new as well as old.
CR92:4
Developing in them the spirit of perfect love. CR9:5
Not all have ears to hear. SM183:2
The Lord does not honor the world, nor the worldly-wise,
with a knowledge of his secret purposes. R1617:6
The world cannot comprehend our joy, nor know the sweets
of this fellowship with God and his Son. R1906:5
Not seeing their need of the great Physician, the worldly are
not listening in that direction and do not hear his voice.
R3915:2
For the uncontrite of heart to understand would mean that
they would oppose God's plan the more and would come
under greater responsibility themselves. R4599:2
"The wise shall understand (matters as they become due) but
none of the wicked shall understand." (Dan. 12:10) R3947:1
"Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of
heaven, but to them (unbelievers) it is not given." (Matt.
13:11) R1063:3* , R1957:6
To whatever extent we lose the spirit of the Lord, to that
extent we lose its illumination. R5100:2
Any, once sanctified and blessed, are sure to lose their
interest in the deep things of God if they return to their
"wallowing in the mire" of sin. R3213:5
Not those who fear man and the work of man, sectarian
systems, creeds, etc. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of
wisdom" (Psa. 111:10) because it leads to sonship. R2208:3
That love him, that love his will and his way more than
anybody else's. CR159:5, CR175:3
"Fear"--reverence. R4599:2, R4631:3, R4715:1, R5100:1;
SM6:1
Honesty and sincerity lead to zeal to know and to do the will
of the Father. R5522:2
He will shew them -- And no others in the present time.
A171
Otherwise it could not be understood. R4631:3
To understand it distinctly we must be in the right attitude of
heart and abide under the shadow of the Almighty. CR159:6,
CR175:3
His covenant -- The Abrahamic covenant, that "all the
families of the earth (shall) be blessed" in the seed of
Abraham, The Christ. R2209:3; CR9:6, CR11:1
His covenant is to make it known to them. R1913:5,
R3371:4
Whoever loses sight of this mystery shall cease to strive for it.
R4535:5
To be in covenant relationship with God is to be in harmony
with God; and to be called a son of God is a full measure of
this. CR93:3,4
To those worthy of heart, God revealed his Son. R4715:1
To such the Bible, as a telescope, will bring divine things into
close view; and, as a microscope, magnifying the law of God
in all the little affairs of life, will help us to bring every
thought into subjection to the divine will. R2210:5
Psalm 26
Psalm 26:2
Prove me -- He proves to see if we are worthy--to see if

we love him best or love self best. R5914:1
Psalm 27
Psalm 27:T
A Psalm of David -- This entire Psalm applies to every

member of the Body of Christ. R3248:5
Psalm 27:1
The LORD is my light -- Guiding the heart. R3248:2

An encouragement when facing the finger of scorn or the lip
of sarcasm and slander. R4857:5
And my salvation -- Overruling our affairs for good.
R3248:2
The more fierce the conflict with the powers of darkness, the
more glorious the deliverance. R1915:1
Whom shall I fear? -- The proper frame of mind for all
the Lord's people who are fighting the good fight of faith.
R2016:4
Courage, born of faith and strengthened by endurance, cries
with humble boldness in the midst of the deepest darkness of
the most perplexing difficulties. R1915:4
Our consciousness of loyalty to God and of divine guidance
should keep us without fear. R4922:4
Psalm 27:3
Encamp against me -- Let us not be of those who draw

back, or those that faint by the way, for glorious will be the
victory of faith and zeal. R1876:4
Psalm 27:4
That I may dwell -- Be counted worthy to be recognized

by him as a member of his Church. R1915:1
In the house -- "Whose house are we." (Heb. 3:6)
R1915:2
Beauty of the LORD -- The beauty of holiness; our
pattern and chief joy. R1915:2
And to inquire -- As students, of his holy law and
testimony. R1915:4
Psalm 27:5
The time of trouble -- Rendered "evil" in "I create evil."

(Isa. 45:7) A125; R1351:2*
Psalm 27:10
Father and my mother -- My most trusted human friends.

R1788:4
Psalm 27:11
Teach me -- We know that the Lord can direct our course

in whatever way he chooses, if we put ourselves under his
care. R5212:2
Thy way, O LORD -- We should study the scriptures
bearing on any subject, trying to find the underlying principle
of God's teachings; then commit all to the Father in prayer,
asking him to guide both reason and judgment; then use that
reason and judgment to the best of our ability. R5212:5
Psalm 27:12
False witnesses -- Foretelling the painful circumstances of

the sacrificial death of the Messiah as the Lamb of slaughter.
R1205:2
Psalm 27:14
Wait on the LORD -- Not a ministering to the Lord, but a

patient watching and waiting until we learn what our Lord
would have us to do. R5711:3, R5712:1
Be of good courage -- Courage, fortitude, persistency, in
the service of the Lord are very necessary to the child of God.
R5712:2
Courage, born of faith in God and in his exceeding great and
precious promises, is required to surmount difficulties.
R5712:3
Shall strengthen -- So that we will not be overwhelmed.
R5712:3
Thine heart -- The soul, the being, especially the
intelligent portion of man. R5712:2
Wait -- We are to have faith and hope even though the way
is rough. R5331:4
Psalm 28
Psalm 28:7
Trusted in him -- The grandeur of David's character was

shown in his devotion to God and in his submission to the
divine will. R5674:5
Psalm 29
Psalm 29:1
O ye mighty -- El, a name often applied to Jehovah.

E67; R296:3
Psalm 29:2
Beauty of holiness -- The worship of God is elevating and

ennobling, calculated to develop in us the glorious moral
likeness of God. R1836:1
Psalm 29:10
Sitteth upon the flood -- Indicating that Jehovah's

dominion is established over all created beings. R1283:5*
Psalm 29:11
The LORD will give -- So, then, if you lack the strength to
use faithfully your talent, the fault is yours, not God's.
R1282:6
Strength -- Courage. The Lord encourages us in many
ways. R4817:6
His people -- His trusting, faithful servants. R4818:6
With peace -- In this age, when all creation groans and
travails in pain. R4818:5
Psalm 30
Psalm 30:3
Soul from the grave -- Sheol, oblivion, death--not

torment. E348, E363
The soul can be destroyed by its Creator. R1882:1; HG334:5
Hast kept me alive -- This passage expresses gratitude for
recovery from the danger of death. R2600:2
Psalm 30:4
His holiness -- His justice, wisdom, love, and power which

insure his doing all things well. R5989:6
Psalm 30:5
For his anger -- Which must necessarily be manifested in

the great trouble that will soon overwhelm the world. C304
There was anger against Jesus "for a moment" when he bore
the sinners' curse. R302:5*
Favour is life -- Everlasting life. R5475:6, R436:1
The future existence. R581:1
The earnest of the morning he has tasted, but the morning
itself he anticipates. R302:5*
Jesus' resurrection was a manifestation of Jehovah's favor.
R302:5*
Weeping -- Not only for the departed ones, but also by
reason of the imperfection, mental, moral, and physical,
which they find in themselves, their neighbors, and friends.
HG415:5
Sorrow. OV202:2
In connection with our fightings with foes within and without.
R3259:3
Endure for a night -- During the period in which sin is
permitted. A9
The night of dying and sleeping. E345; HG332:1
Six thousand years. SM470:2; R5273:2
The entire period of human history thus far. SM789:2;
CR324:1; R5097:2, R6013:1
We are still in the night of weeping. R4892:1
The Gospel age is part of the world's dark night. R1877:5
The healing of diseases of mind and body will not be
complete until the Millennial morning. R2028:3
Sickness, sorrow, sighing, and dying continue; and will
continue until the glorious morning of Messiah's Kingdom.
OV176:1; R4892:1
Jesus had a night of weeping, of "strong crying and tears,"
(Heb. 5:7); being "sorrowful, even unto death." (Matt. 26:38)
R302:5 *
But joy cometh -- Showing the strong contrast between the
present evil age and the coming age of righteousness.
R2398:2
Note three contrasts: the length of the night with the longer
day; the cause of the night with the cause of the morning; the
cause of weeping with the cause of joy. R1868:3
When that which is perfect shall have come. R3259:3
Whose glory, brightness, and blessing will fully compensate
for all the dark shadows of the nightime past. SM789:2;
R6013:1
There was a joyful resurrection morning for Jesus, and there
shall be one for his saints also. R302:6*
Israel's "double" has been fulfilled and her morning of joy
will soon break. SM399:T
"Awake and sing, ye that dwell in the dust." (Isa. 26:19)
E345
In the morning -- The morning of awakening,
resurrection. A9; E345; R4329:5, R1881:1, R1533:2,
R302:6 *
When the Church will be known and honored. CR492:1
The glorious morning of Messiah's Kingdom. OV176:1,
OV205:1,4
The great antitypical Sabbath, the seventh thousand-year day.
R5273:2; SM471:1
The Millennial morning is already here, but it is early--not yet
light except for the Morning Star. It will be some time yet
before the Sun of Righteousness shall arise. R348:6
We can see the reflection from the "Sun," although it has not
yet arisen. We are now in the early dawn. R5097:6
The night will give way to the glorious day of his presence.
HG433:3
"The Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in his
beams." (Mal. 4:2) HG336:5
The path of the elect is a dark way, a nighttime when the
Word of the Lord is a "lamp to their feet"; the path of the
non-elect in the Millennium will be radiant because the Sun
of Righteousness shall arise. R3026:5,6
Psalm 30:7
Made my mountain -- My Kingdom. A318
Psalm 30:11
Hast turned for me -- The chastened and converted world.

C304
Psalm 30:12
And not be silent -- And never be silent. C304
Psalm 31
Psalm 31:1
In thy righteousness -- Pray, pleading God's justice.

R5381:1*
Psalm 31:3
For thy name's sake -- For the sake of thy work and the
share that I may have in it. R3062:4
Pray, pleading God's glory. R5380:6*, R5381:1*
Lead me, and guide me -- Every spiritual Israelite must
recognize the leadership of the Lord. R3061:6
And never attempt any undertaking, either temporal or
spiritual, without seeking to note the will of the Lord
concerning it. R4859:1, R3062:1
Psalm 31:5
Into thine hand -- Quoted by Jesus on the cross. (Luke

23:46) R2474:6
Hoping to receive it again by a resurrection. E315; R2475:4
Commit my spirit -- Ruach, spirit of life or vital energy.
E315
The ransom-price was thus placed into the hands of the
Father, giving Jesus the right to all those things which he
intends to bestow upon the whole world of mankind.
R4637:5
Psalm 31:15
Times are in thy hand -- All the affairs of life, temporal

and spiritual, of God's people. R4527:3, R4533:6
We wish to have the Lord's will done in respect to the time of
our change, and in respect to all we enjoy together daily.
R5728:5
Psalm 31:16
For thy mercies' sake -- Pray, trusting God's love and

mercy. R5380:5*
Psalm 31:17
Silent in the grave -- Sheol, oblivion, death, not torment.

E363; HG121:3
Psalm 31:20
Strife of tongues -- Confusion of human traditions.

R1788:2
Psalm 31:23
Preserveth the faithful -- God is both able and willing to

keep that which we have committed to his keeping, but we are
not to expect miraculous help except when necessary.
R2021:2
By being all gathered through death to glory before the
terrible severity of the world's trouble will be permitted to
come. R2020:4
Psalm 31:24
Be of good courage -- Courage is necessary to fight down

the tendency to sin. R5329:6
We are to resign our earthly interests to our Heavenly Father
and to leave them under his supervision. If we allow the
Adversary to beat our courage down, he will soon put us out
of the battle entirely. R5329:3
Strong courage, godly courage, from right principles, based
on faith in the Lord which says to us, do your duty whatever
may be the Lord's will for you. R5330:1
Thus demonstrating our faith in the Lord. R5330:4
Strengthen your heart -- Our faith is the basis of both our
strength and our peace. R4817:6
That hope -- The Lord will supervise our affairs and we
are to trust in him. R5329:3
The Christian's secret of a happy life is in his knowing and
trusting the Heavenly Father and the Heavenly Bridegroom.
R2083:5
Psalm 32
Psalm 32:1
Blessed is he -- Primarily David himself. R3260:1

Taking the standpoint of the prophet after his heart had
returned to peace with God through assurance of divine
forgiveness of his sins. R4271:2
Whose transgression -- Against Uriah. R3260:1
Nearly all sins committed by God's people may be classed as
mixed sins--only partially wilful. R5690:2
Is forgiven -- If you believe God exercised mercy toward
you and forgave your sins, then believe also that the Lord has
a similar arrangement for the world. HG147:3
Is covered -- The Lord will cover the unwilful portion of a
mixed sin, but will punish that portion which was of
knowledge and assent of the mind. R5690:1
Set aside; not actually blotted out until the resurrection.
R3261:1, R3314:6, R2667:1, R4272:5
Psalm 32:2
lmputeth not iniquity -- So long as we renounce it and

seek the Lord in faith and sincerity. R3314:6
There is no guile -- No deceit or hypocrisy; whose
conduct is open and transparent. R2017:5
No secret longing for sin with merely the restraints of fear.
R4271:2
Psalm 32:3
When I kept silence -- Verses 3 and 4 briefly rehearse the

king's unhappy experiences during nearly a year. R4271:3
Apparently for a time the king had smothered his conscience.
R4271:5
The sin was concealed, unrepented of. R2016:2
My bones waxed old -- He seemed to age rapidly that
year; he became enfeebled prematurely. R4272:1
Psalm 32:4
Thy hand was heavy -- The chiefest of his troubles

consisted in his separation from the Lord. R4271:4
Turned into the drought -- All the freshness, vigor and
joy were consumed, as by a drouth. R4272:1
Psalm 32:5
Acknowledged my sin -- "Against thee, and thee alone,

have I sinned, and done this great evil in thy sight." (Psa.
51:4) R4271:5
Unto the LORD -- To the Lord only could he go asking
forgiveness. R4271:5
Psalm 32:6
For this -- For this cause, because of God's mercy.

R4272:5
Mayest be found -- There is a time limit to divine mercies.
R4272:5
Before the heart becomes calloused and set in an evil course.
R2017:5
David's experience taught him that every day he remained
unrepentant carried him further from fellowship with the
Lord. R3261:4
Surely -- If the sinner will promptly confess and repent.
R3261:4
Of great waters -- Of trouble. R3261:4
Psalm 32:7
From trouble -- Not necessarily implying that they would

be taken away before the trouble. It is "through much
tribulation we shall enter the kingdom." (Acts 14:22)
R4273:1
Songs of deliverance -- David could figuratively hear the
heavenly messengers singing songs of his deliverance even
while in the affliction. R3261:5
Psalm 32:8
With mine eye -- The eye is the symbol of wisdom.

R4858:6
We should look to the Lord for leading in all of life's affairs.
R4859:1, R4858:3, R3062:1
As a horse, driven without reins or bridle, simply directed by
the eye and watching for the master's will, the animal being
without restraint. R4273:2
The Lord's eye will watch over us, that he may give us the
necessary proper counsel. R4273:1
Those who can be guided only by continual scourgings are
not of the overcoming class. E234
See comments on Psa. 31:3.
Psalm 32:9
Be ye not as the horse -- But, in the legitimate use of our

intellectual endowments, let us apply our hearts unto
instruction. R1661:6*
As the mule -- Stubborn. R680:1*
No understanding -- God would have his reasoning
creatures serve intelligently and without force. R1566:2,
R680:4*
While the Lord promises grace sufficient, he never
encourages any to rest supinely upon his promises, but
exhorts to activity, alertness, energy, perseverance. R1670:3
With general directions he sends us forth: not like machines,
but as intelligent beings, to use our brains as well as our
hands and feet. R3161:5
The two extremes of underrating and overrating human reason
are both fraught with evil consequences. R1566:6
With bit and bridle -- The world will be restrained with
bit and bridle during the Millennium, but they must advance
beyond this to be fit for eternal life at its close. R4273:2
Lest they come -- Else they will not come (R.V.) R2017:6
Psalm 32:10
Mercy shall compass -- Though, to outward appearances,

having as many sorrows as their less pious neighbors, God's
promise is sure and his grace sufficient. R4273:4
Psalm 32:11
Glad in the LORD -- A very different thing from being

glad in the trifling things of this world. R4273:4
Ye righteous -- God's people, reckoned righteous through
faith. R4273:1
Psalm 33
Psalm 33:1
Rejoice in the LORD -- Rejoicing and the spirit of praise

are indissolubly linked in the divine economy. R2031:3
Praise is comely -- Gratitude is one of the divinely
implanted instincts of a soul bearing the image of God, and
should therefore be cultivated. R2031:2
Psalm 33:6
By the word -- Not Jehovah personally, but he used

various agencies. He gave orders and they were promptly
executed. E182
Psalm 33:8
In awe -- Before God, infinite in wisdom, justice, love and

power. SM168:4
Psalm 33:9
For he spake -- When we read that Jehovah created the

heavens and the earth, we are not to suppose that he
personally handled it, but that he used various agencies.
R370:4
And it was done -- His orders were promptly executed.
E182
Satan has never interfered with God's plans. A116
Psalm 33:13
From heaven -- The bodily presence of Jehovah is in

heaven. R5547:6
Psalm 33:14
Looketh upon all -- The Lord has means by which he can

be cognizant of all earthly affairs. R5547:6
Psalm 33:19
Their soul -- Being. R277:1

From death -- Not the body, but the being, called in the
Scriptures, "soul," dies. R205:4, R277:1
Psalm 34
Psalm 34:2
Boast in the LORD -- "Let him that glorieth glory in this,

that he understandeth and knoweth me." (Jer. 9:24) The
beginning of this wisdom is indeed the reverence of the Lord.
R1919:6
Psalm 34:7
Angel of the LORD -- There is some power by which God

seems to encircle his holy people. CR314:4
May stand for any agency or power, whether animate or
inanimate, that God would be pleased to use. R5633:3,
R3798:1
The angels are "ministering spirits" (Heb. 1:4) and always
have access to the Father's face on behalf of his Little Flock.
F76
God's dealings with his people in earlier times was through
angels. R5634:1
In this text the word angel probably refers to spirit beings.
R5634:1
Doubtless the angels of the Lord are as present with his
people now as ever. R5606:1, R5635:1; Q437:4; F76
Perhaps one guardian angel to each saint; perhaps more than
one. R2350:4
It will be part of our joy, on the spirit plane, to make the
acquaintance of these angels. R4823:5
Persons whose minds are in accord with righteousness and
truth are proportionately surrounded by a protective influence
which shields them from the intrusion of the evil spirits.
R4218:3, R4069:2
Encampeth -- An encampment, representing a continual
and abiding presence, of divine representatives. R3441:2
Present in our midst without our being conscious of their
presence. R265:2
Present, yet invisible. A182; R5781:5
So the Lord, at his second advent, can be present, yet
invisible. R2974:3
Round about them -- For their deliverance or protection.
R4477:3, R4348:4, R4769:3, R5634:5, R5781:5
Illustrated by the vision granted to Elisha's servant. R3441:1,
R2349:2
On the snowy curtain above the Holy of the Tabernacle, and
on every side, are pictured cherubim.
R158:6 *
That fear him -- Any special supervision intimated in the
Scriptures is only for the Lord's "little ones." R3798:1
Especially deputized to watch over and minister unto the very
elect. R3441:3
Who not only will to do right, but who do the right to the
extent of their ability. R3641:4
Delivereth them -- In the way that will bring the largest
measure of blessing. R5634:5
Only those who are in covenant relationship with God.
R4769:3
Protect them, not always from the threatening disaster, but
from any injurious or evil effects therefrom. R3641:3
The angel of the Lord was as truly with James, who was
killed, as with Peter, who was delivered. The deliverance is
such as cannot always be appreciated by the natural senses;
sometimes granting sustaining strength to endure even when
not delivered. R2140:5
In James' case the "escape" was final and decisive; in Peter's
case it was only temporary. R3004:5
But it is the interest, the good, of the New Creature that is
being considered and not the interests of the flesh. R5606:1
Psalm 34:8
O taste and see -- Of the feast now spread for the elect
Gospel Church, or of that of the Millennium for all people.
R1957:6
But do not let it stop at that, as many do. F117
Psalm 34:9
O fear the LORD -- Perfect love casts out slavish fear, but
increases reverential fear. R2986:6
The fear (reverence) of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
R2289:4
Psalm 34:10
Any good thing -- They shall not lack anything good for
them. R4731:5
Psalm 34:13
Keep thy tongue -- A warning to the world in general.

A309; D68
"Speak the truth in love." (Eph. 4:15 ) R2157:4
From speaking guile -- Our first concern, then, should be
for the heart. R1937:2
Psalm 34:14
Seek peace, and pursue -- Insisting on such rights as are

reasonable and necessary for the cause, and freely
relinquishing other rights in the interest of peace. R4407:5
Whether the great trouble be very near or farther afield, the
proper course of God's consecrated people is the same.
R5458:6
"God has called us to peace." (1 Cor. 7:15) R2946:3
Psalm 34:15
Eyes of the LORD -- Let your child feel that your eye and
God's is ever upon him, just as we feel that God's eye is upon
us. R1097:5*
His ears -- Are bowed down to hear the groaning of the
prisoner. SM623:1
Open unto their cry -- No matter how long we have
walked in a blundering way. R2147:4
Psalm 34:17
The LORD heareth -- A promise applicable to all who

fulfil its conditions. R1358:6
Let your faith grow strong by meditation upon the promises.
R5381:5*
Psalm 34:18
Broken heart -- Those discouraged and despairing, bereft

of all hope. R5862:2
A contrite spirit -- Their lowly estate in the present life is
only their necessary discipline to fit them for the glory and
service of the time to come. R2139:5*
If any violation of the golden rule brings pain and regret it is a
sure sign that it was not wilful, but stumbled into by the flesh
contrary to the desires of the spirit. F375
Psalm 34:19
Are the afflictions -- Rendered "evil" in "I create evil."

(Isa. 45:7) A125; R1351:2 *
Trouble is not necessarily a sign of disfavor. God permits us
to have afflictions. R5879:4
Illustrated by the life of Job. SM523:1
Psalm 34:20
Not one...is broken -- The New Testament writers clearly

record the fulfilment of this prediction. (John 19:36) A58;
R1394:5, R1205:2, R1817:4
One of the many prophecies which show that the Bible is a
divine revelation. A58
Psalm 34:22
Redeemeth the soul -- Actually, death is an extinction of

the soul. R3174:3
Psalm 35
Psalm 35:11
False witnesses -- All the painful circumstances of the

Lord's sacrificial death were foretold. R1205:2
Psalm 35:27
Pleasure...prosperity -- It is God's good pleasure to give

the Kingdom to his Little Flock. (Luke 12:32) R1272:6,
R1781:4
Psalm 36
Psalm 36:6
Is like the great -- El, a name often applied to Jehovah.

E69; R296:2
Psalm 36:8
Abundantly satisfied -- The Ancient Worthies shall be

satisfied when they awake with God's likeness as Adam had
it. R613:2
Psalm 36:9
Fountain of life -- Thus it can be withdrawn by him in

whom we all "live...and have our being." (Acts 17:28)
R822:2 *
In thy light -- To see any truth clearly we must look from
the standpoint of the divine revelation. F45
Psalm 37
Psalm 37:1
Fret not thyself -- The New Creature should not be

distressed over political, financial or other wrongdoings.
F592
Under the Millennial order of things right-doers are to be
exalted and evildoers restrained and punished. B138
Psalm 37:2
They shall soon be -- Verses 1 to 19 give clear prophectic

testimony relative to the Kingdom and its operation on behalf
of the poor--its overthrow of injustice and the general
equalization of human affairs. B138
Cut down -- In the reign of Christ. R492:6
Psalm 37:3
Do good -- So much the more as ye see the day drawing

on, "strengthen ye the weak hands and confirm the feeble
knees." (Isa. 35:3) R707:5
Especially when confronted with "perils among false
brethren." (2 Cor. 11:26) R4540:3
Rather earn a humbler living with godliness and contentment
and spend more time in his service, doing good unto all as
you have opportunity. R1243:3
To forward the truth and suffer for it. R1102:5
Thou shalt be fed -- Our food and water will be sure. He
will never leave nor forsake his own. R1840:1
Naturally and spiritually. R2021:5
It is improper for saints to ask alms. R4101:5*
Psalm 37:4
Delight thyself -- This is a step further than trusting. "I

delight to do thy will, O my God." (Psa. 40:8) R1840:1
To delight thus in the Lord is to have the affections centered
on him. R1840:2
The heart that is continually looking for divine direction is
continuously in a prayerful attitude. No other condition is
proper to the Christian. R3806:1
The desires -- If those desires are in harmony with his
plan. R4983:6
Psalm 37:5
Commit thy way -- It is not sufficient that we merely place

ourselves in the hand of the Lord. R4790:1
Before becoming entangled in multiplied cares and hampered
by the outcome of our own misguided course. R1554:2
Bring it to pass -- Their fervent prayers will avail much.
R1840:4
Blessings and peace, even in the midst of the storms of life;
and eventually glory, honor and immortality through Christ.
R4506:4
Psalm 37:6
He shall bring forth -- In his own due time. R3820:3

There is likely to be in all our affairs a time in which, if we
have been misunderstood and misrepresented, the truth will
ultimately be brought forth. R2888:2
Thus we can rejoice when we are accounted worthy of
misrepresentation for his sake. R1193:4
Thy righteousness -- Thus silencing all our opposers.
R1102:5, R1816:1
As the light -- Clear, cloudless and widely manifest.
R5803:5
As God was ultimately glorified by Daniel's course of letting
his light shine. R3639:3
Thy judgment -- Character will, in every case, be revealed
in due time and meet its just recompense. R801:5*
Psalm 37:7
Rest in the LORD -- Do not make the mistake of

expecting him to give you the desires of your heart instantly.
R1840:5
Wait patiently -- We must not be disappointed and allow
our faith to falter when the test of patient endurance is
applied. R5802:6, R1840:5
"They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength."
(Isa. 40:31) R1840:5
Outward peace and calm are not always the conditions best
suited to our needs as New Creatures. R5803:1
Our Father has not forgotten us when the answer to our
prayers seems delayed. R5803:1
For the grand outworking of his plan. R1070:1
Psalm 37:9
For evil doers -- All who, after coming to a clear

knowledge of the truth, still wilfully disobey it. E388
Unless they attain the spirit of love, they will not be fit for the
Kingdom, for God is love. SM230:2
From the mention of the character of this class it is manifest
that the Second Death into which they are cast is not a death
to sin, as Universalists claim. R1443:5
Shall be cut off -- During the Millennial age. A67;
R492:6, R443:1; HG538:2
"From among the people" (Acts 3:23) in the Second Death.
E473; R2763:5, R1878:6, R1272:5
Because God has no pleasure in them that love evil. R1781:3
This rule, however, does not apply to the Gospel age.
R2061:1
But those -- During the Millennial age. E240
That wait upon -- The Prince of life will use for servants
the pure, the holy, the reverent, the godly. OV91:1
Psalm 37:10
Wicked shall not be -- God tells us plainly that the nature

of the everlasting punishment of the wicked will be death,
destruction. R2607:3
Contrary to the teachings of Universalism. R3083:6
It is merciful on God's part to destroy the incorrigibly wicked.
R3083:6
Psalm 37:11
Meek shall inherit -- Not yet. Today they seldom even get
a good slice of it. CR493:5
In the reign of Christ. R492:6
Of peace -- "God has called us to peace." (1Cor. 7:15)
God's Word has many messages on peace. R2946:3
Psalm 37:16
Little that a righteous -- The Christian does not strive as

anxiously as others for his full rights and full share of present
blessings. R1245:2
Psalm 37:20
Wicked shall perish -- All who, after coming to a clear

knowledge of the truth, wilfully disobey it. R1878:6
Suffer the loss of everlasting life and all of its privileges, joys
and blessings. E388
Perish does not mean preserve. SM521:T
"All the wicked will he destroy." (Psa. 145:20) R2607:3,
R891:5
We do not find one verse in the Bible saying that the wicked
can have life in torment or in any other condition. R2607:3,
R1039:6
Psalm 37:23
The steps -- Walking in the right paths. R4628:6,

R3155:6
"The Lord knoweth the way of the righteous." (Psa.1:6)
R3155:6
Of a good man -- A righteous man, reconciled to God
through the death of his Son. R4628:6, R3156:1
Are ordered -- The Lord will surely direct the path of
such. R5711:5, R4628:6
Especially in respect to the service of the truth. R3157:2
Sometimes in sending financial or social disappointments or
sickness to bring back his wandering sheep. R3157:2
The providence of God over his sons is a very particular
providence. R1561:2
Therefore, the Christian should never view any experience as
being lucky or unlucky. R4628:6
God does not arbitrarily interfere in the affairs of his people,
set aside their free agency, and force them to move as mere
machines. R3156:5
We must scrutinize the circumstances of life, lest that which
is only a device of Satan be mistaken for the providence of
God, and an indication of his will. R614:2,3
By the LORD -- Who exercises supervision over his
individual affairs. R3155:6
And he delighteth -- Because of confidence in God's love
and wisdom. R2762:6
In his way -- In God's way; because, be it ever so thorny,
narrow and rocky, he knows the end is best. R2762:6
Psalm 37:24
Though he fall -- The feet class. R1268:2

Err in judgment and bring upon himself the consequences of
his error. R3156:6
The noblest characters you have ever known in the racecourse
have made failures at times. CR153:1
A just man will not fall into sin. The very most that could
happen to him would be to stumble. R5218:3
While all the Bride will not fall with Babylon, yet some,
really children of God, will fall, yet not be utterly cast down.
R177:5
He shall not be -- But, in due time, by constant effort, be
able at least measurably to overcome the weaknesses of his
nature. R628:5*
Utterly cast down -- Which would mean Second Death.
CR153:1; R3157:5
LORD upholdeth him -- By making his blunders and
weaknesses react so as to establish him in righteousness and
fit him for joint-heirship in the Kingdom. R3156:6, R5218:3
With his hand -- He will not let go of us as long as we are
striving to walk in his way. R3157:5
His hand is still held by the Lord. R3157:4
Psalm 37:25
The righteous forsaken -- The Lord's children and work

will get along without us; but a loss of opportunity and
blessing will be sustained by us if we do not assist. R548:3,4
Begging bread -- Each has confidence regarding the bread,
water and plain clothing. What they fear is the loss of some
of the comforts, the luxuries that God has not guaranteed us.
R832:5
Does not exclude the providing of means for their
deliverance. R1963:1 *
The Lord may provide through their own industry, through
the generosity of friends, or by public provision. R2021:5
Accepting proffered help is not begging. R2021:5
Psalm 37:31
Is in his heart -- Symbolized by the breastplate's being

bound to the High Priest's heart. R72:1
None of his steps -- The Word of God furnishes principles,
precepts, and examples broad enough to indicate the Lord's
will in the minutest affairs of life. R614:4
Psalm 37:35
Seen the wicked -- At the present evil time. CR493:4;

HG538:3
In great power -- It is seldom indeed that God visits
punishment upon the world in the present time. He has
appointed a day in which he will judge the world by Christ
Jesus. R569:5
Spreading himself -- During the time in which evil has
been permitted. A68; R492:3
Psalm 38
Psalm 38:3
No soundness -- We are all enslaved to the extent that we

have these imperfections. CR429:3
Psalm 39
Psalm 39:1
I will take heed -- If our ways please the Lord our

utterances will be right. R4804:3
With my tongue -- The tongue is potent in its influence,
beyond any other member of the body, for either good or evil.
R4805:1, R4804:6
Thereby we may honor God, or blaspheme him. R4804:3
In the unregenerate the tongue is a fire, stimulating all the
fallen passions. R4805:2
The perfect mastery of our words is to be sought by vigilant,
faithful effort. R4805:2
To utter an injurious remark against another, and then to add,
"I do not know whether it is true or not," is to show that the
speaker is exercised by an evil spirit. R2444:6
Keep my mouth -- To the end that, when we speak, our
speech may be with grace, seasoned with salt, and that under
all circumstances we may speak as the oracles of God.
R1937:6
Satan and his angels are seeking to subvert the Lord's people
and catch them in their words. R5518:2
With a bridle -- A restraint, a controlling influence.
R4804:3
While the wicked -- The wicked one, who tempts and tries
the righteous. R1937:4, R5518:2
The evilly inclined of the world, and those with a knowledge
of the Lord who are in opposition to him. R4804:6
Psalm 39:2
Dumb with silence -- The safest attitude for a saint when

being tried. R1937:5
Even from good -- From doing or saying what seemed
good in my own sight. R1937:5
Psalm 39:3
The fire burned -- A fiery trial. R1937:5
Psalm 39:4
Measure of my days -- However vexing our experiences,

they will soon be over. R1937:5
How frail I am -- Realizing the vanity of all earthly things,
and their inability to satisfy or comfort, and that our days are
but as a handbreadth. R1937:5
Psalm 39:11
Like a moth -- When sin deprived humanity of the right to

life, immediately the jewel began to lose its perfection of
brilliancy and beauty. R279:1
"Yea, man giveth up the ghost (life) and where is he?" (Job
14:10) A209
Psalm 39:12
And a sojourner -- A law-abiding, tax-paying alien,

looking for protection under the laws, but not compelled to
fight against the rightful king. F594
Psalm 40
Psalm 40:1
I waited patiently -- Pray perseveringly. R5381:2*
Psalm 40:2
He brought me up -- By the "arm of the Lord" Christ

Jesus. (Isa. 53: 1) E418
A testimony to be proclaimed publicly by all in their lives and
conversation. Q514:4
An horrible pit -- The pit of condemnation, sin and death.
R3000:6; OV308:3
Depth of confusion. R287:6
Out of the miry clay -- Of personal sin. R1673:1
My feet upon a rock -- Christ and his redemptive work.
R3000:6
Especially applicable to the feet members of Christ being
established on the rock of truth. R287:6, R757:5
Established my goings -- Established my feet of faith
upon the rock foundation. R3000:6
Our course no longer vacillating. R3000:6
Psalm 40:3
Hath put a new song -- Of divine justice, mercy and love,

reasonable and harmonious in its every cadence. R3001:1
"The song of Moses and the Lamb." (Rev. 15:3) R3998:6;
C237
Now sung by those who can exercise faith in the Lord, but its
complete fulfilment will be in the Millennial age. R3999:1
In my mouth -- What further commission is needed for
every member of the New Creation to preach. F295
Psalm 40:4
The LORD his trust -- "This is the victory that

overcometh the world, even our faith." (1 John 5:4) R3064:6
Psalm 40:5
Thy wonderful works -- Thy kindness towards us already

performed. R3000:6
And thy thoughts -- Thy plans, purposes, promises for the
future. R3000:6
Cannot be reckoned -- "Neither count I my life dear unto
me." (Acts 20:24) R3001:3
"I count all things but loss for the excellency of the
knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord." (Phil. 3:8) R3001:4
"Count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations." (Jas.
1:2) R3001:4
"I reckon that the sufferings of the present time are not
worthy to be compared." (Rom. 8:18) R3001:5
"I thank Jesus Christ, who counted me faithful, putting me
into the ministry." (1 Tim. 1:12) R3001:6
"That ye may be counted worthy of the Kingdom for which
ye also suffer." (2 Thes. 1:5) R3002:2
Psalm 40:6
Thou didst not desire -- The finest bullock could not take
away sin. A perfect man had sinned. Only a perfect man
could redeem the sinner. SM660:1
These were not the end of God's desire or intention; he had in
mind the better sacrifices of Christ and the Church. Q611:4
Psalm 40:7
Then said I -- Christ Jesus, at the time of his baptism.

F437
Lo, I come -- At age 30 Jesus offered himself as the
antitypical bullock of the sin-offering. R5128:2, R4969:6
Our Lord made a covenant of death at that moment, which
required the succeeding three and a half years to accomplish.
HG602:2
Representing in the consecration of the priesthood (Lev. 8)
by the offering on the altar of the fat and parts of the
life-producing organs as a sweet savor unto the Lord. T42
Volume of the book -- The Law and the Prophets.
CR400:4
At consecration, Jesus offered to do everything written in the
book, though he did not then know all that was therein
written. R5086:1, R5165:4
What book? The book of the divine will, represented in
Revelation by the scroll written on the inside and outside,
sealed with seven seals. Also the books of the Old
Testament. Q182:1
Submitting himself to everything that was written in the book.
R5085:3, R5264:2; Q36:7
We must also be willing to do everything written in the book.
R5447:1
His consecration went beyond the moral law and embraced
everything that God had written prophetically. R5165:4
Psalm 40:8
I delight -- "Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall

give thee the desires of thine heart." (Psa. 37:4) R1840:1
Jesus was willingly delivered up to die; every talent and
power was offered up as a sacrifice to God in the carrying out
of the divine plan, whatever that might involve. SM644:3;
CR401:1
Jesus came not for exaltation, but from a delight to do the
Father's will. R5375:2, R5186:3
To have the affections centered in him, to see in God the
fountain of all goodness and truth. R1840:2
We must all come to that point or we cannot be his disciples.
CR322:6; R4462:5; CR469:4; R5269:6, R3021:3
How important patient, cheerful endurance seems to be in the
light of the Word. R4910:5, R5650:6
Willing service, not compulsion. CR489:4
Not merely a willingness to do the Lord's will under restraint,
but of a willing heart. R3609:1
Jesus had pleasure in self-abasement. R3885:5
The pleasure of an ideal life. R2694:6*
Not taking pleasure in turning, twisting and endeavoring to
avoid the force of that Word, but seeking to conform thereto.
R2649:1
Delight to surrender and sacrifice our own wills. R3237:2
Such desire is necessary before we can be, in any sense of the
word, pleasing or acceptable to him. R4596:5
Endurance in an impatient or unhappy state of mind cannot be
pleasing to God. R4910:5
So that his will is not grievous to us. R4277:4
The language of love, the language of the heart. SM283:T,
F452
To do thy will -- Christ Jesus, highly exalted as he is,
delights to acknowledge the headship of Jehovah. R765:2*,
R920:4, R1075:3*; SM492:3; OV307:T,
We know that God's will is best whether we understand it or
not. R5843:6
God was specially, and more particularly, manifest in the
flesh of Jesus when he presented himself to John at Jordan.
(1 Tim. 3:16) R5291:5
Our first battle should be to gain the consent and full
cooperation of our wills with the divine Word. R4062:3
Consecration to God will ensure a searching of his plan
revealed in his Word, that we may be able to spend and be
spent for him, in harmony with his revealed plan. T119
In accordance with the Father's will; NOT in obedience to the
Father's law. R4591:2
He left the dignity of the chief place on the spirit plane and
came prepared to face death to carry out the Father's will.
R5846:6, R5085:3, R5022:6; Q212:4
Our service must not be rendered to obtain the reward. We
must seek to know the divine will and to obey it. R4836:4,
R5648:4, R5431:6
Yea, thy law -- The Law, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy
God with all thy heart, mind, being and strength." (Mark
12:30) F356
He sees more than merely, "Thou shalt," "Thou shalt not."
He sees things from God's standpoint. He sees the principles
of God's character which govern the universe. R5277:5
All under it must love God supremely. F356
That which condemns all imperfection. T35
Is within my heart -- In the midst of. R5085:5
Is my pleasure. In the type, the breastplate of judgment,
representing the Law, was worn upon Aaron's heart, Aaron
typifying Christ. T35; R72:4
A part of the Christian's daily business is to engrave in his
character, in his heart, more and more deeply the laws of the
Lord. R3609:2
Moses carried the Law to the people in his hands; Christ
carries the law to the people in his heart. R1322:5*
Psalm 41
Psalm 41:1
In time of trouble -- Rendered "evil" in "I create evil."

(Isa. 45:7) A125
Psalm 41:9
Own familiar friend -- Judas. R3760:2

Eat of my bread -- One who partook of the same supper,
common hospitality. R4906:6
Trials from "brethren," some of whom were only weak, and
one false at heart, must have been the sorest among our Lord's
experiences. R3820:3
Lifted up his heel -- The Lord quoted this prophecy, but it
did not move Judas to change his course. R4906:6
A radical change from an attitude of love and friendship to an
attitude of bitterness and enmity is not an instantaneous, but a
gradual, work. R4234:4
Psalm 41:13
From everlasting -- From all eternity, without any

beginning. E86
Psalm 42
Psalm 42:1
After the water brooks -- "Ho, every one that thirsteth,

come ye to the waters (the refreshing waters of divine
truth)." (Isa. 55:1) R1936:1
So panteth my soul -- With increasing appreciation of
spiritual blessings comes a more ardent longing for more and
more fellowship with God, and more intense longings after
holiness. R2123:5
Hungering and thirsting for righteousness. (Matt. 5:6)
R5163:6
After thee -- Not only after truth with a curiosity interest,
but after that righteousness which comes through a knowledge
of the truth. R1936:1
Psalm 42:5
Art thou cast down -- "Perfect love casteth out fear." (1

John 4:18) R1906:2
Hope thou in God -- As the eagle soars above the storm
cloud, live at such an altitude of Christian experience as to
enable you to rejoice in the Lord always, and in everything to
give thanks. R1906:2
Psalm 43
Psalm 43:3
Unto thy holy hill -- The heavenly phase of the Kingdom

of God. D582
Psalm 44
Psalm 44:3
And thine arm -- The power of Jehovah; in highest

matters, Jesus. E47
Psalm 44:14
Makest us a byword -- Since the Jews' rejection of

Messiah, since their house was left desolate, Israel has had no
marks of God's favor--their tears, groans, and prayers have
gone unanswered. B216
Psalm 44:22
All the day -- The Gospel age. R5173:4

Psalm 45
Psalm 45:1
The king -- The Lord, after being invested with Kingdom

authority. SM55:1
Psalm 45:2
Thou art fairer -- In his earthly life. HG448:3

He had proven purity of heart and absolute loyalty to the
Father. SM55:1
Grace is poured -- "Let your speech be always with grace
(with manifest love and kindness), seasoned with salt (a
purifying and preservative influence)." (Col. 4:6) R1937:3
Into thy lips -- The grace of our Lord's lips is manifest to
us in the message which he left. SM55:1
"Never man spake like this man." (John 7:46) "All bear him
witness and wondered at the gracious words that proceeded
out of his mouth." (Luke 4:22) R1937:2
Blessed thee for ever -- Jesus' exaltation is perpetual; far
above angels and powers and every name. SM56:T
Psalm 45:3
Gird thy sword -- Make ready for the Day of Vengeance.

D549
The sword of Messiah is the truth, and with it he shall smite
the nations. R774:2
Divine knowledge as it shall go forth in due time for the
binding of Satan and the liberating of all the slaves of sin and
death. SM56:1
Thy majesty -- The establishment of Messiah's Kingdom
with power, great glory, and majesty. R5493:6; SM56:1
Messiah's triumph in the Millennial age. SM440:1
Psalm 45:4
Ride prosperously -- Prophetic of Jesus in his glorified

condition. CR164:2
The saints also ride upon white horses (pure doctrines).
R774:6
Because of truth -- The lessons of "right" (righteousness),
the necessity of equity and fairness in their dealings with one
another, is being forced upon every one--nations and
individuals. R774:2
And righteousness -- A reign of force. SM56:1
Thy right hand -- Thy power. CR164:2; SM57:1
Terrible things -- There will be a terrible time of trouble.
CR164.2; SM57:1
Psalm 45:5
Thine arrows -- Words of divine truth shall enter in and

show the whole world just where they are, and shall cut them
to the heart. (See Acts 2:37) CR164:4, CR51:4; SM51:T,
SM53:T, SM440:1; R5493:6
The sharp truths and righteous judgments of the Lord which
shall prevail during the Millennial age. HG270:3
Are sharp -- "Sharper than any two-edged sword." (Heb.
4:12) R3726:6
King's enemies -- Hosts of error. R5493:6;
CR164:2; SM52:1
The people fall -- In submission to the Kingdom. SM60:2
A picture of the conversion of the heathen. CR51:4;
SM440:1
The slaughter of the hosts of error will mean a great blessing,
for the Lord smites to heal. R5493:6; HG270:3
Every knee must bow and every tongue confess. (Rom.
14:11) HG448:3
Those who fall before him in obedience and reverence to his
scepter of righteousness will the soonest be blessed and
exalted by the King of glory, while those who oppose his
scepter are counted his enemies and shall fall before his sharp
arrows. R774:3
Under thee -- To confess and adore him. SM60:2
Psalm 45:6
O God -- Given of God (Leeser). R774:1

The sceptre -- The right to rule. B83
Psalm 45:7
Lovest righteousness -- Only those who learn to love what

is right will have life on any plane. A303; SM65:3;
OV202:1
Hatest wickedness -- In equity, injustice; the very opposite
of love. SM395:T, R5125:1
All brethren of the Lord Jesus must take the same stand
regarding sin, especially sin in ourselves. R5702:5
We should hate the wrong but not the individual who does the
wrong. R5125:2
Not like Balaam, double-minded, not reliable in every way.
R5323:1
We should not become more loving than the Lord. We want
to love just what he loves and hate what he hates. R4909:6
Thy God -- The mighty one above even thee. R354:1
Anointed thee -- We have received of the anointing
under our Lord. CR436:1
The oil of gladness -- The holy Spirit. F132; R5654:5
The holy joy of our Lord, and the holy prospects which
sustained him in his sacrificing, laying down his life.
R5847:1
Above thy fellows -- As David was chosen over his older
brothers. R4210:4
As head over the Royal Priesthood--his fellows. F132;
CR435:6; T37
Above the angels, above the Church, making him head over
all things. SM434:2
Psalm 45:8
Smell of myrrh -- Symbol of wisdom. R4093:2*
Psalm 45:9
Thy right hand -- The place of favor. R354:1

The queen -- The Bride of Christ, the true Church.
R1944:1; OV255:5
In gold of Ophir -- Clothed in the glory, honor and
immortality of the divine (gold) nature. R354:1, R1944:1
Psalm 45:10
Hearken, O daughter -- Daughter of Jehovah, not of

Christ. E49; R385:1*
The Church, espoused to Christ. CR39:2
Was ever a proposal of marriage couched in more delicate
and beautiful phrase? R1494:6
And consider -- That present life is brief, and that we have
the opportunity to sacrifice it for eternal life in the future.
HG450:3
Incline thine ear -- Give attention to Jehovah's
instructions; search the Scriptures and learn of him. R354:2,
R458:3
Forget -- By becoming so enchanted with future prospects
as to be almost oblivious to the things of this present time,
except as to "things needful." R4090:4
Thine own people -- Earthly friendships. R1386:5,
R1318:2 *
Thy father's house -- The human nature. R1386:5
The world--its vanities, smiles, frowns, praises and scorn.
R354:2, R1141:5
Adam's house, the world in general. R1494:6; CR39:2
The human relationships, the ambitions, hopes and aims of
the children of Adam. C193; R5862:5
Psalm 45:11
So shall the king -- The Lord Jesus. R5862:5;

C193; E49
Greatly desire -- Have respect only to his approval, his
smile, his praise, and his frown. R354:2
Although the whole family in heaven and earth will be
blessed through him, only his wife, cooperating with him, will
be his companion, confidante and treasure. R5862:5
Thy beauty -- Of character, of heart loyalty. R5862:5,
R1554:3
Thou art beautiful already in his eves, for he looks upon the
heart and reads its loyalty to him. R1141:5
"The ornament of a meek and quiet spirit." (1 Pet. 3:4)
R1820:6, R5862:6
For he is thy Lord -- Adon, not Jehovah. E49
Worship thou him -- Our Lord, while on earth, was really
worshipped, and properly so. R2337:3; E72
Psalm 45:12
Daughter of Tyre -- The strong ones of earth. C193

Shall be there -- During the Millennium. C193
Psalm 45:13
The king's daughter -- Jehovah's daughter, the Bride of

Christ. C193; CR8:3, CR39:2, CR101:5; Q436:2;
R5865:5
Pictured by Asenath, wife of Joseph. R2888:5
Is all glorious -- With the beauty of holiness. C193;
CR217:1
Not merely a glory of office, but an inherent and eternal glory
as we11. CR39:2, CR8:3
Within -- Not to the vision of the natural man. C193
Her clothing is -- Will be, when she is glorified. C193
Of wrought gold -- immortality--the divine nature. T18;
C193; CR217:2, CR253:5, CR39:2, CR8:3, R2161:5;
SM727:1
Psalm 45:14
She -- The Little Flock. Q106:3; R4655:1, R4973:6

Brought -- Led--all through the Gospel age, from grace to
grace. SM254:1
Unto the king -- The Bride's exaltation to Plane K of the
chart will come when the Heavenly Bridegroom shall present
his Bride complete before the Heavenly Father. R5060:5;
Q53:4
The intimation is that after the Church has experienced her
change she will be absent from the earth for a while and will
be brought into the presence of Jehovah, the great King.
R5181:6, R4973:6
In raiment -- The simple white robe of her Lord's own
furnishing. C193; R5197:6; HG449:3
There is a difference between her imputed robe and the one
she will wear when she is changed. HG449:5
Represented by the seamless robe of Christ. R2788:3,4
Of needlework -- The beautiful adornments of the
Christian graces. C193; R5181:6, R2782:6; CR217:2;
SM259:1; HG449:4, HG180:5
As Peter expresses it, she is to "add to her faith" the various
Christian graces. (2 Pet. 1:5) R458:2
Painstaking endeavor to fix and establish in their robes the
glorious pattern outlined by the Lord. SM254:2, SM205:3;
R5197:6, R2161:6; CR253:4; Q159:1
Painstaking embroidery of actual righteousness. R1494:6
Every stitch must be taken carefully, painstakingly. Each
feature of the outline must be carefully studied. HG449:6
The virgins -- The five "foolish virgins." (Matt. 25:2)
C192; F128; R5232:2; CR101:5; Q300:1, Q437:T
Though foolish, they are, nevertheless, virgins. Q296:T
Her companions -- The Great Company are to be
companions of, and ministers to, the Church. F121;
R5394:3, R4655:1, R3869:2; Q436:2
Typified by the damsels that accompanied Rebecca. R4761:1;
F171; R428:4; Q304:2; SM205:3
They neglected the work on the garment; they lacked zeal.
SM260:T, R4648:1, R5023:2, R5656:2, R4855:2, R4921:4
The Great Company is part of the household, part of the
Church of the first-born. Q304:2; R4761:1, R4875:3
Bridesmaids. R5865:3
In olden custom, the father would present the wife with a
maidservant, who would accompany her mistress and would
necessarily be associated with her. R4655:2
Though companions, there will be a very great difference in
the degrees of glory. R458:1
They will never be sharers of the Bride's portion. R2764:4,
R5232:2, R4036:1
They are also invited to the marriage supper. Q229:2,
Q106:2
Also represented by Benjamin. R4437:1, R5232:2,6
That follow her -- At the fall of Babylon they will be fully
set free from the timidity that has restrained them, and be glad
to acclaim the Bride. Eventually, they will be invited to the
marriage supper. R4647:6
Shall be brought -- As soon as they have all finished their
course. Q314:4
They shall also be brought into the presence of the King.
Q161:T, Q106:3; CR62:6; SM727:1, SM326:T
The Great Company shall be honored also, though less highly
than the Bride, by the King. R828:5; HG450:1; SM727:1
Psalm 45:15
And rejoicing -- Finally delivered from Babylon, with

rejoicing. R4079:6*
After they have passed through their great tribulation.
R2162:1
Shall they -- The Bride, all glorious, shall be presented to
the great King, the Father, by the great King, his Son.
R4148:5
The Great Company--after severe testings, and after having
lost the chiefest blessing. F128
They shall enter -- "The virgins, her companions," as
guests at the great supper. After the marriage they will enjoy
the feast with the royal family. R343:6, R3834:5
The king's palace -- By an instantaneous resurrection to
perfect spiritual conditions. F707
Psalm 45:16
Instead of -- Instead of being any longer considered.

D625; R5199:4; Q751:T, R4715:3, R5074:1
Thy fathers -- Messiah's progenitors--the Ancient
Worthies, the Patriarchs. E142; R5199:4, R4555:2,
R1006:5, R354:2,4; Q750:4; SM733:1, SM397:1
The faithful among Israel who earnestly endeavored, in their
weakness, to keep God's covenant. B207
These men, great in faith and obedience to God, will be
known to the Jews as "the fathers." OV321:5; F128; D628
Developed by the Law covenant. Q196:1
Be thy children -- They will be the first-born children of
the "Everlasting Father," the Messiah. R4535:4, R4321:2,
R5199:4, R4990:5, R4555:2, R3245:5; CR104:2; OV46:T
Instead of Christ's roots, they shall be his branches. R809:6
The father of Messiah in the flesh will become the son of
Messiah in glory. R4687:5
But not of the father's (divine) nature. To be a father does not
imply that the children will partake of the father's nature.
R354:5
Typified by Kohath, on the Church's right hand, their closest
of kin. F129
Whom thou mayest -- By an instantaneous resurrection to
perfect human conditions. F707
Eventually to be made sharers of the spirit nature and become
members of the Great Company class. R5182:4
Make princes -- Examples of perfect manhood, leaders of
the people. R4990:5, R5344:4
Perfect on the earthly plane, made princes amongst men.
R3937:2, R5810:1 R4836:4, R5189:5
Chief ones, captains. F707; D625; R5074:1, R4555:3,
R5199:5, R4930:6, R5031:1; SM733:1
Fleshly representatives of the Kingdom. E78; C257;
R4535:4, R4974:2, R5344:4, R5505:4, R5836:3, R4715:2;
OV56:4; CR104:2; SM402:1
The agents of the Kingdom's judgments and the channel of its
blessings. T109, R5241:4, R5836:3, R5182:2; SM191:T,
OV96:2
Representatives of the invisible Messiah and his Bride,
backed by their full power and authority. R5189:5
The seen representatives of God's Kingdom, while Christ and
the Church, the real spiritual leaders, will be unseen.
R1872:5
As perfect men they will be the superiors and natural leaders
The princes who will execute judgment will all be Israelitish
and all perfect men--tried and approved of God. OV321:5;
R5809:6
To them, first, will be drawn the Jews. OV109:1, OV116:3;
F178
Israel's polity will be restored under these princes or judges.
(Isa. 1:26) A294
Representing Israel when the blessings of the New covenant
will be poured upon them. OV119:3,4
So recognized by Israel and all nations. R1904:2

A remnant of fleshly Israel shall join with Abraham, Isaac,
and Jacob, who will then be princes, in constituting a nucleus
of a holy nation. R2860:5
Inheritors of the earthly phase of the Kingdom. R4072:1,
R5964:3
When Christ, as King, appoints those resurrected and perfect
men as the rulers, exemplars, and teachers of men. R1157:1
Being resurrected perfect men, they will be the perfect images
of God. In each one of these Ancient Worthies God will be
manifested in the flesh. R5291:3
Presumably they will have a great work of instruction to do
for the rest of humanity. R5182:2
In contrast, the Church will be a Kingdom of priests, a Royal
Priesthood. R5859:3
"Out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord
from Jerusalem." (Isa. 2:3) R5293:4
Only the merciful of the Ancient Worthies will share with
Abraham in dispensing the divine favors to mankind as
"princes in all the earth." R2857:5, R3947:5
Represented by Moses on the Mount of Transfiguration.
R3794:3
"A king shall reign in righteousness and princes shall rule in
judgment" --to act as magistrates (Young). (Isa 32:1) R354:5
Administrators of the law. OV184:4
Intermediaries between the spiritual Kingdom, the saints, and
their subjects, mankind. D619, D626, D629; CR117:1
Typified by the veil that Moses wore at Mt. Sinai. D630
The contrasting standard of perfection that men must
recognize in the Kingdom. F717
Like the ashes of the red heifer (Num. 19), the results of the
painful experiences of the Ancient Worthies will be a store of
blessings, instructions and help in the restitution work. T111,
T112
The "reward" that he gives to "his servants, the prophets."
(Rev. 11:18) R5567:5; F119
Not likely to be as many as 144,000. Q606:1
In these Christ will be manifested, in their flesh, even as the
Father was manifested in his flesh. B136
In all the earth -- The nation of Israel will be the first to
respond to this standard of the Lord thus set up. R2983:1
Psalm 46
Psalm 46:T
A Song -- The utterance of the faith of Israel's faithful ones

in the time of Jacob's trouble. R302:6*
Psalm 46:1
God Is our refuge -- The antitype of Israel's cities of

refuge. R3093:1
The Church's refuge and protection. A323; D158
Justice is the avenger of sin and Christ is the refuge and
All of these blessings are of the Father, through the Son.
R3093:5
And strength -- "In the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting
strength." (Isa. 26:4) R1787:3
In trouble -- The great storm of trouble at the close of this
age in which Babylon will go down, like a millstone cast into
the sea. R5058:6
Which will entirely change the present construction of
society. R5059:1
Psalm 46:2
Will not we fear -- Because we have made the Lord our

refuge and habitation. CR18:3; R5059:1
Because we are waiting for and expecting thus to see
Messiah's heavenly Kingdom introduced. R879:6
Knowing that, at the same time, our redemption draweth nigh.
R1379:4
The saints rejoice and are restful of heart while others lament
and weep. R5989:5
Nor will we, if permitted to remain even until they sink into
the midst of the sea. R845:4*
Though the earth -- The trouble upon the earth (society)
will not reach its intensity until the shaking of the heavens
(ecclesiasticism) has broken the fetters of superstition,
plunging the masses into skepticism and infidelity. R1308:4
When the present organization of society. A323; C229; D46
Be removed -- Unsettled, disorganized and overthrown.
A323; C229; D46; CR18:3
Not until the servants of God are "sealed in their foreheads."
(Rev. 7:3) R1863:2
When newspapers and banks, politicians and everybody, will
be lost, and every man's hand will be against his neighbor.
HG480:5
Psalm 46 seems to give a complete picture of the seventh
plague of Revelation. R511:4
And though -- And when. A323
The mountains -- Kingdoms, autocratic governments.
A323; C229; D46, D551; SM320:3; R4990:2, R5059:1
As mountains and hills tower above the earth, they aptly
symbolize the civil powers of earth. R716:2*
While kingdoms (mountains) shall give place to republics
(islands), so the islands in due time shall also flee away.
(Rev. 16:20) R511:4
Be carried into -- Signifies the overwhelming of a
government in a revolutionary uprising of the masses.
R816:1, R686:2,3
Others will melt with fervent heat. (Psa. 97:5) R815:6,
R4573:1
Are swept into. A323
By a great tidal wave. R5364:1, R5863:6; SM320:3
The midst of the sea -- Lawless, ungovernable masses.
A323; C229; D46, D551, D596; R5364:1, R5863:6,
R1489:4; Q842:2
Anarchy, which will swallow up the false systems. R5478:2,
R4772:3, R5059:1; SM320:3
The great waves (Luke 21:25) of nihilism, communism,
socialism and anarchism are sweeping with irresistible force
against the bulwarks of present institutions. Q841:4
Babylon is to be "cast as a great millstone into the sea." (Jer.
51:62-64; Rev. 18:21) R5478:3
Psalm 46:3
Waters thereof roar -- Become infuriated. A323

And be troubled -- With the disputing of contending
factions. C229; HG401:6
With retributive and purgatorial troubles. R1470:3
Though the mountains -- The kingdoms. C229; D45
Shake -- By terrible revolutions. D551
Tremble for fear and insecurity. C229; R1489:4
He shakes and sifts because he would separate the many who
have assumed the name of Christ, but who are not truly his
people. R1307:6
With the swelling -- The threatening and rising power.
C229
Psalm 46:4
There is a river -- The river of salvation. CR18:5

A river of truth. R686:4
Illustrated by the Niagara River. R4066:4,5
The river of the water of life which will flow during the
Millennial age from the glorified New Jerusalem, the Church.
R2508:3,5
Shall make glad -- But not rejoicing in its own security,
regardless of the woes of others. R686:5
The city of God -- The Kingdom of God, the Church, even
in its present hampered condition. C229; CR18:5; R686:4
The holy place -- The Church, the Sanctuary. C229
It is not the Kingdom set up and glorified, else it would be
represented as in the Most Holy. R686:4
Of the tabernacles -- The dwelling place. C229
Psalm 46:5
The midst of her -- The true Church. A323

The center of our interests is our great Advocate. R5306:2
She -- The Church, the Bride of Christ. R3259:3
Shall not be moved -- Not exempted from the shakings,
but not moved by them. R3053:1
Earthquakes cannot dissolve the relationship subsisting
between the Lord and his faithful; they are preserved by the
peace of God ruling in their hearts. HG401:6
There is no saint of God so weak as not to be able abundantly
to stand, even in this evil day, if he is only loyal and faithful
to God. R1318:6*
Because her faith is established, not in ignorance and
credulity, but in the Word of God. F592
"That those things which cannot be shaken may remain."
(Heb. 12:27) R3053:2; CR18:5
Help her -- Rescue her from her toil, weariness and peril.
R2650:5
Deliver, "change." (1 Cor. 15:51, 52) R4133:5
And that right early -- The morning brings with it
deliverance from danger, victory over enemies, peace to the
nations, and the renewal of earth, by the establishment of
Messiah's glorious throne. R303:1 *
Just as in the morning watch he looked out from the fiery
cloud and troubled the Egyptians. R303:1*
When the morning appeareth the saints will be changed in the
first resurrection. C230; R5567:6
"When the morning appeareth." (margin) What a morning! --
Resurrection for the Church, restoration for Israel, restitution
for the earth! R303:1 *, R2064:3
At the dawning of her morning, when she has passed through
her nighttime in which "no man can work," (John 9:4) and
has been ushered into glory. Her morning is to precede the
Millennial morning. C230; A323; E437
In the morning of the Millennial day. R1832:5, R3701:4,
R2973:3, R2759:5
The morning is already dawning. CR18:6
Earlier in the morning than others not winners of the prize of
the high calling. R2109:5, R2504:4; HG745:3
As Israel's deliverance did not come in the night in which the
Passover was eaten, but in the morning which followed it.
R2918:3
As Jesus was raised -- "very early in the morning." (Luke
24:1) R3375:3
As Jesus came to the disciples in the midst of the storm in the
fourth watch of the night. (Matt. 14:25) R2650:5
Psalm 46:6
Uttered his voice -- "The voice of the archangel." (1 Thes.

4:16) B147
Assumed command. B147
God will speak "Peace" in tones that will shake not only the
earth (social structure), but also the heavens (ecclesiasical
structure). R2515:2
The earth melted -- Organized society disintegrated, the
systems of error going down. B147; A323
Psalm 46:8
Desolations -- Divine wrath. SM188:1

He wounds to heal. R1869:3
He hath made -- Truth on every subject, however, or by
whomsoever uttered, is the voice of God. R686:6
"Behold, the Lord maketh the earth empty, and maketh it
waste." (Isa. 24:1) R686:6
Psalm 46:9
Maketh wars to cease -- By the "desolations" of verse 8.

The nations will be so satiated with bloodshed that they will
willingly turn and seek for purity and peace. R35:2*,
R269:1, R532:3
With the crisis of its trouble, the world will be saved from its
own madness by the establishment of Messiah's Kingdom.
R5852:2
By subduing all classes and enforcing principles of
righteousness in the Millennium. A333; E372
In the fire -- In the destruction of the time of trouble.
D528
Psalm 46:10
Be still -- "After the fire a still small voice." (1 Kings

19:12) R3414:6, R2334:5
The time of trouble will paralyze the whole world. Q204:9
Desist from your former ways, O people. A323
God's message to babbling, clamorous, self -assertive
humanity in the time of trouble. D637; B78
Out of the wild commotion of that stormy sea, God will bring
order and peace. R3114:1
Applicable to the Church now. R687:1
Those who bid their own wills and prejudices to be still are
learning now, from God's Word, the blessed truth. R687:4
And know -- Come to the knowledge. A323
After the trouble the Lord will command the nations to be still
and recognize him as God. R5364:1
Then the preparatory work will be accomplished, and the
proper work of the new Kingdom may begin. R763:5
I am God -- That the Lord's Anointed has taken the
dominion. R1095:1, R1423:2, R1715:1
I will be exalted -- The only true basis of peace is
righteousness. SM606:2; CR114:5
Among the heathen -- Rich and poor of every nation shall
gradually be made aware of the changed conditions, and all
lovers of righteousness will rejoice. SM456:T
Therefore the heathen cannot be going to an everlasting hell.
R870:4*
Exalted In the earth -- In the new order or arrangement of
society. A324
After 6000 years of human pride and boasting. R2145:6
Psalm 47
Psalm 47:T
A Psalm -- Probably written for the occasion of the

bringing of the Ark to Jerusalem. R4297:1
Psalm 47:3
Subdue the people -- Forcibly. B101

Not a peaceable conversion of the nations. B101
The work of subduing and ruling the nations with a rod of
iron does not commence until the sounding of the seventh
trumpet at the end of the Gospel age. HG13:5
Psalm 48
Psalm 48:2
Is mount Zion -- The heavenly phase of the Kingdom of

God. R3647:2; A295
God's agency. Dviii
The reward of The Christ. R5711:2
Sides of the north -- The great eminence which Lucifer
sought, that he might "sit upon the sides of the north," (Isa.
14:13) will be granted as a reward to The Christ. R5711:2
The city -- The New Jerusalem. A295
Psalm 48:6
A woman in travail -- The troubles of the Day of the

Lord are but the labor pains of the old, as the new
dispensation is ushered into existence. R621:2
Psalm 48:9
Of thy temple -- The Christ. T70

Psalm 48:14
Be our guide -- Ask him to guide you, with no will of your

own, no choice as to the pathway. R590:5
Psalm 49
Psalm 49:T
A Psalm -- These are Christ's words, as proven by the

quotation of verse 4 in Matt. 13:35. R302:6*
Psalm 49:7
None of them -- None born of Adam, the contaminated

fountain. R5972:1, R777:1,2, R1247:4; E102; HG351:5;
A172
Because there is "none righteous, no, not one." (Rom. 3:10)
R5429:6; E96; T78
Illustrating the exactness and particularity of divine justice.
OV22:1
Therefore without hope of ability to recover himself.
R3847:3
Since none could be found, God arranged with the Logos that
he should become a man and be the Redeemer of the race.
R5352:4
Had our Lord not been absolutely free from sin he never
could have redeemed us. R1186:6
Jesus must have been a perfect man since he was able to do
what no imperfect man had done or could do--give himself a
ransom. R776:2
Proven by God's Law to Israel and, through their experience,
to all the world. R682:6
Thus the necessity for Jesus' having no earthly father, but
being begotten of the holy Spirit. R4941.2
Redeem his brother -- Adam and all condemned in his
transgression. E418
To give a ransom for father Adam, or for any other man.
OV150:2; R4426:1, R5352:4
Or even satisfy the claims of justice against himself. F101;
R5972:1
Since man could not justify himself he would be wholly
unable to justify another--his brother. R5972:1
A ransom -- The word "ransom" in the Old Testament
seems to be used less definitely than in the New Testament.
The Hebrew word is "kopher" and signifies a covering, a
protection. R5972:1
Proving that God's Law did demand a ransom; that he will by
no means "clear (excuse) the guilty." (Ex. 34:7) R709:5
None can, by any works, meet the requirements of justice.
F101
So God had compassion on man, and love made a provision
for this. The Son of God became a man and paid man's
ransom-price. HG346:5
Psalm 49:10
Leave their wealth -- The result of an unsound mind. If

the mind were well balanced its energies would be divided
between accumulation and using, for good and noble uses for
himself and his fellowmen. R1080:5
Psalm 49:11
That their houses -- Their families. C20

Shall continue -- Holding to the present arrangement of
society with a death clutch. C20
Psalm 49:13
Posterity approve -- Receiving their inheritance with

mean ingratitude and generally using it to their own injury.
R1080:5, R1413:4
Psalm 49:14
Like sheep -- Sheep are not buried in graves, but in

oblivion. E363
They -- A certain class who vainly think to build up
fortunes and make their names endure without realizing what
is the true wealth of character which should be sought.
R2338:2
Laid In the grave -- Sheol, oblivion, death; not torment.
E363; R2600:2
And the upright -- The saints. (Dan. 7:27) R2600:2
"The saints shall judge the world." (1 Cor. 6:2) E364
Dominion over them -- Come under the dominion of
Christ and the Church in the morning of the Millennial day.
R2338:3
"Rule them with a rod of iron." (Rev. 19:15) A303
In the morning -- Of the resurrection, the Millennium.
A60; E363; R302:6*
The morning shall bring dominion to the righteous--
redemption from the power of the grave. R302;6*
Grave from their dwelling -- The grave, sheol, oblivion,
being an habitation to every one of them (margin). E363
Psalm 49:15
Will redeem my soul -- By giving thy Son as my ransom

price. A172
It is the soul that was sentenced to death. R5166:3, R1510:2,
R3854:5; E328, E348
The soul that went into death is the soul that was redeemed by
Jesus. R5166:3
Power of the grave -- Sheol, oblivion, death; not torment.
E328, E363
Psalm 49:19
They shall -- His earthly riches shall. R1761:5

Never see light -- Never more be seen as his. R1761:5
They shall never see light before death overtakes them.
R3725:4*
Never-- "ad," as far as, or until; "naytsakh," goal, or the bright
object at a distance traveled towards; "lo," not. Instead of
teaching everlasting death, the word "never" teaches
resurrection. R2358:4*
Never see life in the full sense, though all the families of the
earth shall be awakened and brought to a full clear knowledge
of the truth before being sentenced as wicked. R1106:4
Never be enlightened concerning a better way. R3725:4*
Psalm 49:20
That is in honour -- Therefore not heathen, or men dying

in ignorance of God. R1761:3
Lifted up by restitution processes to the glory and honor of
perfect manhood. R1761:3
Understandeth not -- Does not appreciate the work which
Christ has done for him. R1761:5
Like the beasts -- Perishing hopelessly. R1761:3
Psalm 50
Psalm 50:1
The mighty God -- El elohim, the mighty of the mighty.

E67
Even the LORD -- Jehovah. R3647:2
Hath spoken -- Through the glorified Christ. R3647:2
And called the earth -- To repentance, righteousness and
eternal life. R3647:2
With thunder tones of judgment. R5990:4, R1914:4
Rising of the sun -- "The Sun of Righteousness shall
arise." (Mal. 4:2) R3647:2
From the east to the west. R5990:4
Going down thereof -- At the close of the Millennial age.
R3647:2
Psalm 50:2
Out of Zion -- The heavenly phase of the Kingdom. A295;

T33; R4454:1, R5874:4
God hath shined -- His glorious character and plan are
made known. R3647:3
Psalm 50:3
Our God shall come -- The promised blessings are still

future. R3647:3
A fire -- The time of trouble. "The fire of my jealousy."
(Zeph. 3:8) R3647:3; A323
Very tempestuous -- The Millennial morning will be
specially cloudy--"Behold, he cometh with clouds." (Rev.
1:7) R1073:5
Psalm 50:4
To the heavens -- The high or ruling powers. D75

And to the earth -- The masses of the people. D75
Judge his people -- His professed people--Christendom.
This judgment is now in progress and accounts for the
merciless criticisms of the nominal church by the world at
large. R3647:3; D75
As the supreme Judge. F396
Psalm 50:5
Gather my saints -- "Gather the wheat into my barn."

(Matt. 13:30) BI04, B164, B229; C139; SM127:1
Separating them as wheat from tares. R1488:1, R248:5
From every quarter of Babylon. R3786:5
Into oneness with the Lord and each other, and out of
fellowship with mere professors, tares. C139; CR84:1
It was the Lord who said the gathering time would be in the
end of the age. R6023:2*
The present time is a gathering, rather than a sowing, time.
R442:2
The first work of Christ at his second advent will be the
harvest work. B104, B229
This call, or invitation, has been going forth during the entire
Gospel age. R5424:3; CR84:1,3
He is gathering merely those who have the hearing ear and the
responsive heart--from inside and outside of all
denominations of Christendom. SM130:1; R4831:2,
R5092:5; HG671:1
Saints--holy ones. R5877:6, R5928:1; SM186:T, SM334:1;
OV119:2, OV156:3; Q177:T, Q194:4
In the day when the Lord shall make up his jewels, he will
gather such as have completed the covenant of sacrifice.
R581:6
Preparatory to the setting up of his Kingdom in power and
great glory. R1745:5
Not at death, nor continuously during the age, but after, and
in consequence of, the Lord's return. R154:3*
Hebrew, ghahseed; literally, God-seed. HG26:2
Together unto me -- Not into any man-made organization.
SM343:2; R4638:3, R5092:4, R2994:1; CR84:6, CR85:2
Primarily, this drawing is not to the Savior, but to the Father.
CR84:6
"They shall be mine, saith the Lord, in that day when I make
up my jewels." (Mal. 3:17) C139; R3849:5
This class as a whole is the Messiah, the spiritual seed of
Abraham. OV156:3
A covenant -- The Sarah covenant, the Grace covenant.
R5909:2, R5690:4
The Church is developed under the same covenant-mother as
was Christ. R5246:1, R5644:4
To be fully submissive to the headship of the Savior.
R5308:5, R4548:1, R5644:4, R5758:1; Eiii
Under which Christ and the Church are called, sanctified, and
developed. R5928:1, R5909:2, R5071:2; CR100:2;
Q181:4, Q196:2
A new covenant, in the sense that it is different from the
Jewish covenant of Mt. Sinai, but it is not THE New
covenant. Fii
Not the Law covenant or the New covenant. R5542:6,
R5947:1, R5021:6
Not without law, but under law in Christ. The law in Christ is
the law of their covenant, the law of love. R5072:3
The only way to gain justification in God's sight. OV280:1
This covenant has been made individually with the entire
Church of Christ. R5071:3
Offering life. A141
Offering the divine nature. SM154:1
To be carried out day by day. SM683:2
A covenant of consecration. R1383:6
Covenant-keeping sacrificers. R1170:4
A fellowship covenant. R4490:1*
Many people are not Christians because they have not entered
into a covenant with God. R5055:3
None can enter into this covenant without a definite
knowledge of its terms and conditions. R5775:6
When this company shall have completed their covenant by
sacrifice the present age will end. R5928:1
By sacrifice -- Not by a promise to sacrifice. R3647:3,
R4494:4, R5654:1, R5775:6; CR98:3
Self-sacrifice; a full surrender to the divine will in thought,
word and deed. OV156:3, OV422:5, OV344:1;
R5006:6, R5301:4; Ev
We make the covenant to sacrifice. It is for the Lord to give
us the opportunity to do so. R5168:6
We sacrifice earthly things. The reward is heavenly things.
R4902:2, R4869:6
Of the earthly nature. R4681:1, R5226:6, R5163:5
Represented by the goats (of Lev. 16) being tied at the door
of the Tabernacle. But it has not yet been offered. R4864:3
A daily work of the crucifixion of the flesh. R5855:4
More than merely obedience to the divine law. Justice, the
divine law, could not demand sacrifice. R5006:6, R5128:4
A sacrificial arrangement, based upon our Lord's merit,
imputed to us. R5089:6, R5877:6
That I might attain unto the heavenly inheritance in joint-heirship
with my Redeemer. R5165:3
As Jesus laid down his life in doing good and proclaiming
the truth, so do his followers in the same manner, whether
for three-and-a-half years, or twenty, or whatever it may be.
R5671:6
The Church attains her relationship with God, not through
the work of a mediator, but by sacrifice. CR98:3
The privilege of joining in this sacrificial work is limited to
those who have certain characteristics--character-likeness to
the Great High Priest. OV107:T
Not a portion of time and substance. Cain came with such a
sacrifice and it was not received. If we present ourselves we
must surely present all we have also. R328:6*
None are saints who make no sacrifice. R156:3*, R5134:2,
R3871:5, R4450:1*
Proving a most drastic test, demonstrating to the Lord those
whom he desires to be the spiritual seed of Abraham.
R5301:5
Those accepting this call to enter into sacrifice are received of
the Father; then they are begotten of the holy Spirit.
Thenceforth they are New Creatures. R5439:1
"Bind the sacrifice with cords, even unto the horns of the
altar." (Psa. 118:27) R4244:4*
Psalm 50:6
And the heavens -- The Kingdom of God which will be

established. R3647:5
His righteousness -- God's righteousness. R3647:5
For God -- Who cannot err. R3647:5
Psalm 50:7
O Israel -- Nominal spiritual Israel--Babylon,

Christendom. D75
Psalm 50:8
Thy burnt offerings -- Freewill offerings, such as

benevolent works. "Many wonderful works." (Matt. 7:22)
R3647:6
Psalm 50:9
1 will take no bullock -- Neither will he compel his

children to sacrifice anything in his service, nor will he accept
anything from them short of a cheerful freewill offering.
R885:5*
Psalm 50:10
Is mine -- "The silver is mine and the gold is mine."

(Hag. 2:8) R3844:2
And the cattle -- The Almighty is not poor that he should
need our gifts. It is a privilege to give to the Lord and his
cause. R5781:3
Yet, while so rich, he has deposited a little here and there
with us, giving us the control of it that we might have the
privilege of ministering to the saints, being thus co-workers
with God. R547:3,5, R3844:2; Q615:T
Psalm 50:12
Would not tell thee -- I do not need your wisdom nor your
works. R3647:6
We should not wait for the Lord or his cause to be hindered
and embarrassed for money before giving it. R855:4
Psalm 50:14
Pay thy vows -- As a thank-offering for all his multiplied

favors. R885:6*
"When thou vowest a vow unto God defer not to pay it."
(Eccl. 5:4) R4265:6
Unto the most High -- All our covenants or vows, except
for the marriage vow, should be made with the Lord. Our
responsibility should be realized to him and not to man.
R4265:1
Psalm 50:15
Call upon me -- We need to reinforce our courage with the

special promises of divine grace. R4817:3
In the day of trouble -- "I will be with thee in six troubles
and in the seventh I will not forsake thee." (Job 5:19)
R4784:2
I will deliver thee -- We have enlisted in no uncertain
struggle, except as our faint-heartedness or unfaithfulness
should make it so. R1281:6, R4817:3
Shalt glorify me -- By thy testimony and faithfulness.
R3648:1
Let your faith grow strong by meditation upon the promises.
R5381:5*
Psalm 50:16
But unto the wicked -- Covenant-breakers who still claim

to be God's people. R3648:1
The unrepentant, who walk after the flesh, not after the spirit.
R3483:3
Who have a form of godliness, but deny the power thereof.
R3330:5
Who know what is right but refuse to practice what they
preach. R1922:1
The messages of peace which the Bible extends are not for
the world. SM334:1
All who are not in the attitude of full consecration to the Lord
are in opposition to some extent, and to the extent that they
are in opposition they are wrong, or wicked. R2925:5
The difference between the Church and the world should be
distinctly discerned. R5692:4
Declare my statutes -- Decrees, doctrines, plans.
R3648:1,2
Why should any undertake to give out the message of God
who has not been anointed by his spirit? R5537:3
The privilege of testifying for God, or being ambassadors for
truth, is a favor reserved for the Lord's own people. R3309:4
No man should be regarded as a minister of the gospel who
cannot claim his commission by virtue of his anointing as a
consecrated child of God. R1715:3, R1922:2, R2057:3
The Lord does not desire the testimony of the devils or
unregenerate respecting himself or his plan. R3727:6
Better to waste or destroy the money than to contribute to
those who fetter others with error and dishonor God.
R1173:5
Take my covenant -- "Thou shalt not take the name of the
Lord thy God in vain" (Exod. 20:7)--falsely, or to no
purpose. R1527:3
iniquity." (2 Tim. 2:19) R1527:6
In thy mouth -- The Lord's people should resent the
services of any who do not give evidence of heart union with
the Lord. R3309:4
Seeing with what aversion the Lord regards anything short of
simple candor and honesty of heart, with what carefulness we
should take upon us his worthy name. R1527:6
Neither Jesus nor Paul would accept testimony from the fallen
angels. R3309:4
Prayer is the privilege of "believers," reconciled children of
God, only. R2024:4, R2644:1, R3805:3, R5692:3
Psalm 50:17
Hatest instruction -- These who have no heart union with

the Lord would deceive and mislead the children of God.
R3309:5
Psalm 50:18
Sawest a thief -- One desirous of robbing God's children

of the truth. R3648:4
Teaching men to climb up to life by some other way than that
of God's appointment. R1528:4
Consentedst with him -- A listener to, or repeater of,
slander is partaker with the thief in his robbery of a
reputation. R4282:5
With adulterers -- With the Mother of Harlots and her
daughters. R3648:4
Psalm 50:19
Thou -- The unfaithful nominal church. R3648:4
Psalm 50:20
Against thy brother -- The true saints, the wheat class.

D75
Psalm 50:21
And I kept silence -- Up to the present time. R3648:4

Thou thoughtest -- Because I kept silence, that I was
consenting to your evil ways. R3648:4
But -- Now that the Harvest time has come. R3648:5
I will reprove thee -- Hence the exposures and growing
unrest in the various sects of Christendom. R3648:5
Psalm 50:22
Now consider this -- This reproof. R3648:5
He sets men's sins in order before them that they may freely
confess their sins and bear their shame, as did the brethren of
Joseph. R1646:4
Tear you in pieces -- Destroy you. R3648:5
Psalm 50:23
Whoso offereth praise -- Thankfully receives the reproof

and applies his heart unto instruction. R3648:5
Glorifieth me -- As a faithful, consistent believer and
representative of the truth. R3648:5
Conversation aright -- Makes his life conform to the light
received. R3648:5
Psalm 51
Psalm 51:T
Chief musician -- Indicating that David had this

confession chanted in the Tabernacle with the other Psalms.
R3254:2
When Nathan -- In this Psalm, David makes public
confession of his sin and asks God's mercy in forgiveness. In
Psalm 32, he gratefully records the blessedness of the man
whose transgression is forgiven. R2017:5
Psalm 51:1
Have mercy -- Pray, trusting in God's love and mercy.

R5380:5*
God showed mercy to David, as to all Jews under the Law
covenant, in that he made allowance for their fallen condition
and punished with trouble, not everlasting death. R1397:2
Blot out -- David's sins were not blotted out nor forgiven,
for the Lord punished him severely for his sin; yet he did not
exact the full penalty, everlasting death. R1397:2
Psalm 51:2
Mine iniquity -- These words of honesty assure us that the

king was overtaken in some kind of mental fog. R5681:5
Psalm 51:3
I acknowledge -- Commendable that he did not attempt to

justify his course or deny the wrong. R1396:6
My transgressions -- Because he had allowed earth-born
clouds to arise between the Lord and himself. R5681:5
Psalm 51:4
Thee only -- God is the Great Judge. R3254:5

David's confession here was to God, for the wronged Uriah
was dead. R1397:5
While the wrong to fellow-creatures was recognized by the
king, he recognized a still higher responsibility to God.
R3254:5
Be clear -- He confessed his sin that others might know,
when the chastisements should come, that the king's troubles
were just punishments and not violations of God's covenant
promises. R1397:5
Psalm 51:5
Shapen in iniquity -- By heredity. E484; R4752:6,

R5032:3, R5093:1, R5768:4; OV329:6; HG351:4,
HG574:2
Mis-shapen. CR451:3
None was ever born perfect except one, Jesus. CR427:2
These conditions of the fallen race may be accentuated or
diminished to a considerable degree by the mental condition
of the parents. R5615:3
We cannot assent to the doctrine of total depravity. CR113:3
We cannot do perfectly because we are imperfect. We are
imperfect because we are born in sin. Q798:T
Therefore we cannot be perfectly holy in every action, word
and thought. CR451:3
But God has graciously arranged that the merit of Christ's
sacrifice shall compensate for the weaknesses and blemishes
of the followers of Jesus. R4558:2
"We cannot do the things that we would." (Rom. 7:14-25)
OV366:1
Poor material out of which to form likenesses of God's dear
Son. R4837:1
Selfishness seems right to man in his depraved condition
because he was born with it. SM162:2
If the perfect man by disobedience forfeited his standing, we
who are imperfect could have no hopes of justifying ourselves
before God. F101
"Condemned already" as children of Adam. HG434:3
Therefore our need for the robe of Christ's righteousness.
HG409:5
Not that God made us sinners. We received our life from our
parents, all the way back to Adam. These first parents sinned
and came under the death sentence. HG650:2
Imperfection of mind, morals and body is passed from mother
to child. HG693:4; R4982:2
Nevertheless, we cannot accept the doctrine of total
depravity--that there is nothing good in any man, nor in all
men. SM501:3; HG650:1
Confident that the Lord would give him the benefit of every
mitigating circumstance. R3254:5
If no fall, then no death, no ransom. R1616:1
The very essence of Jewish belief, upon and into which were
fitted the various typical sacrifices for sins, atonements and
washings from uncleanness. R1794:1
Therefore our minds, at first conformed to earthly things,
generally take the earthly view of matters, the selfish view.
R4628:1
The shape of the brain of the child is largely influenced by
heredity--particularly by the mother. R4752:6
The realization of this helps to make us more sympathetic
with the depraved and degraded, not approving their wrong,
but intelligently assisting to better mental views. R4866:5,
R5102:1, R4991:4; HG650:3
Few parents realize how much they have to do with the moral
and physical status of their children--in the qualities which
are given them at the time of their begetting and during the
period of gestation. R5360:3; F551; HG650:4-6
And in sin -- Under the death curse. E409; R5093:1,
R5360:3; SM436:2; CR496:2; HG193:5
The dying process of 6000 years has affected the race
mentally, morally and physically. R5063:6, R4443:4,
R4612:3, R5149:3; CR428:1
But all are not born in the same degree of degradation. Some
parents produce types higher than themselves. R2902:2,
R5201:1
The only exception to this rule of being born condemned is in
the case of children, one or both of whose parents are
believers. (1 Cor. 7:14) R2719:1, R3773:6
The statement that in Christ there was life (John 1:4) implies
that he did not receive his life from an earthly father.
R4154:3
The rationale for infant baptism. HG252:6
The better we understand the origin of sin and the methods of
its operation in ourselves and others, the more successful we
will be in combating it. R650:1
My mother conceive -- Accounts for the fact that the
infant shares in the dying process and the pain as well as
those who live longer and participate personally in
transgression. F333
Psalm 51:6
Thou desirest truth -- Candor, honesty, truthfulness. Any

who have not this quality in the heart cannot be pleasing to
God. R5453:5, R2943:6
iniquity." (2 Tim. 2:19) R1527:3
The inward parts -- In the heart. R1527:3
Although mankind is fallen in the flesh, and unable to do
perfectly, God demands purity of heart, purity of motive or
intention, and this David realized he had not manifested.
R1397:5
We are to be loyal to the very core or God will reject us.
SM346:1
Outward crime and a crime allowed in the mind are alike
heinous in God's sight. R3254:5
Although David had not directly taken the life of Uriah,
but merely connived at his death in battle, he was a
murderer. R3254:5
Psalm 51:7
Purge me -- The pardoned sinner in the Millennial age.

T112
With hyssop -- With the application of the instructions that
will be given by the Ancient Worthies. T112; R1872:5
Used in the sprinkling of the unclean under the Law. David
desired the antitypical cleansing of his heart. R3254:6
Wash me -- With the truth. T112
I shall be whiter -- The Hebrew root word from which we
get the word "frankincense." R84:5*
Made so in the great fountain of redeeming love, the
Redeemer's merit. C209
Psalm 51:8
Hear joy and gladness -- Implying that during the

preceding year even the music of singers and joyous songs of
nature were sore to his heart. R3254:6
May rejoice -- As freely as God forgave, so must all his
people; and therefore we rejoice to recognize David as one of
the Ancient Worthies. R2017:6
Psalm 51:10
In me a clean heart -- The lesson here is that we shall

keep close accounts with God. R5681:6
The world's need is thus foreshown. D450
Renew a right spirit -- Disposition. R2322:4
If we would realize the influence of our minds over our own
bodies what a great thought-reform movement would speedily
begin in us. R2322:1
Sinners . . . converted -- Prophetic. R3600:5
In the present time, sinners are reclaimed through good
example. In the future, we hope that they will be turned to
the Lord under the more favorable Millennial conditions.
R3600:5
Psalm 51:13
Then -- After we have experienced the joys of his

salvation and forgiveness. R3255:2
Will I teach -- Those who would be thus used of the Lord,
in this age or the next, must be fully consecrated to God--
clean, pure in heart. R1397:5, R3600:5
Psalm 51:14
Of thy righteousness -- The mission of the cleansed ones

is to accept the Lord's mercy, extol his righteousness,
acknowledge their unworthiness and call upon others to
recognize this fountain of forgiveness. R3255:2
Psalm 51:15
Open thou my lips -- None can tell the glad tidings of

great joy unless first the Lord shall have opened his lips with
his mercy and truth. R3255:2
Psalm 51:16
Desirest not sacrifice -- Typical sacrifices. R3255:4

In burnt offering -- Only the Day of Atonement sacrifices
were sin offerings. The burnt offerings and peace offerings of
the remainder of the year represented consecration to the
Lord. R3255:4
Psalm 51:17
Sacrifices of God -- The thing which is most difficult for

us to sacrifice is self. R3845:3
A broken spirit -- Nothing we can give the Lord, even
after our acceptance in Christ, has any value in his sight until
we first give him ourselves--our hearts and our wills.
R3255:4
A contrite heart -- Of humble mind. R5596:3
Those who have broken and contrite hearts may know that
they have not committed the "sin unto death," for it is
impossible to renew such "again unto repentance." (Heb. 6:6)
R3255:5
It is the crushed olive that yields the oil, the pressed grape
that gives forth the wine; and it was the smitten rock that gave
water in the wilderness. So it is the broken, contrite heart that
is most rich in holiness and most fragrant in grace. R1775:5
Wilt not despise -- All who are mourning and sorrowful,
drawing nigh to God through Christ, will be comforted.
Q782:T
Psalm 51:19
Then -- At the close of the Millennial age. T96

Of righteousness -- Of right doing. T96
With burnt offering -- Thankful prayers to Jehovah for a
ransom through Christ. T97
They -- Mankind, on reaching perfection. R5383:3
Offer bullocks -- Perfect sacrifices. T96
Cannot refer to the Church in the present time, for on the
Atonement Day the Church is represented by a goat, and our
Lord by a bullock. R5383:3
Psalm 53
Psalm 53:3
None that doeth good -- An important factor to consider in

marriage, therefore not expecting perfection of one's mate.
R5900:5
Psalm 53:6
Come out of Zion -- The heavenly phase of the Kingdom.

A295; T33; R4454:1
"There shall come out of Zion the Deliverer, and shall turn
away ungodliness from Jacob." (Rom. 11:26) R238:4*
Jacob -- Natural Israel. A300
Psalm 55
Psalm 55:15
Let them go down -- "I would that they were even cut off
which trouble you." (Gal. 5:12) R356:1
Quick into hell -- Sheol, oblivion, death, not torment.
R2599:3; E364
The gradual change of language has attached a totally
different meaning than the word "hell" originally had--the
grave. PD29/41
Psalm 55:22
Cast thy burden -- "Every man shall bear his own

burden." (Gal. 6:5) This Psalm refers to burdens which we
cannot bear. R549:6*
Psalm 56
Psalm 56:12
Vows are upon me -- Nothing in the Scriptures intimates

that our vow to the Lord must be kept secret. Indeed, our
baptismal vow we are required to symbolize, or profess,
publicly. R4266:4
Psalm 56:13
My soul from death -- The soul can be destroyed by its

Creator. R1882:1; HG334:5
Psalm 57
Psalm 57:7
My heart is fixed -- Established in love, reverence and

faith in the sure Word of God. R3337:4
If Christ be formed in one, these established principles of
Christian character will hold him firm and steady in the midst
of temptations and error. R1274:5
Illustrated by the heroic examples of the godly zeal and
fortitude of Daniel and his three Hebrew companions in
Babylon. R1708:6
Psalm 58
Psalm 58:3
Are estranged -- By heredity. R3133:3

They go astray -- The image of God has largely given
place to the image of Satan. R3773:6
Psalm 60
Psalm 60:2
Hast made the earth -- The present organizations of

society. A323; C229; D46
Psalm 61
Psalm 61:3
A strong tower -- The divine plan of the ages is an ample

shield and buckler to all who, in simplicity of heart, receive it
and prove faithful to it. R3332:1, R4926:1
Psalm 61:4
I will trust -- The responsive language of the hearts of

God's faithful children. R3331:6, R4926:1
"He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings
shalt thou trust." (Psa. 91:4) R3331:6
So close to his heart does Jehovah gather his children that
they feel the warmth of his love. R3331:6
Psalm 61:5
My vows -- My covenant of consecration. R3331:6
Psalm 63
Psalm 63:3
Because -- And not for money or reputation. R2853:4

Thy lovingkindness -- Divine favor. R2850:3, R5435:3,
R5475:3
In a sense to all creatures, but especially to those who have
lovable qualities of heart. R5440:3
Seen through the divine plan of the ages--the salvation
planned from before the foundation of the world. R5441:3;
CR480:4
Here the Psalmist represents The Christ. R5436:1,
R5441:1,3
The more a reality to us, the more we lay down our lives in
his service. R5441:1,4,5
Not merely favor as respects future prospects and hopes, but
it extends down to the present life. R2852:2, R5441:4
But God does not love the wilful sinner. R5440:3
Is better than life -- In view of God's provisions for the
future, we count what remains of the present life as a trifling
thing and are glad to lay down our human lives in doing the
things that are pleasing to God. CR481:2; R5436:1,
R2852:1
"I count all things but loss for the excellency of the
knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord." (Phil. 3:8) R2851:6
None but those who walk and talk with God can say this.
R5441:3, R2850:3
Jesus, in appreciation of God's lovingkindness, laid down his
life. It is the same with those who walk in his footsteps.
CR481:2, CR489:4
More esteemed by us than all of earthly life and its good
things. R2853:4
David would rather die than live without divine favor.
The same is true, prophetically, of The Christ. R5436:1,
R5475:3
My lips -- The Church's lips. CR481:1; R5436:1,
R5441:3, R2850:3
Shall praise thee -- Not from a sense of duty or love of
money or worldly position, but because the message is too
good to keep. R2852:4
"He hath put a new song in my mouth, even the
lovingkindness of our God." (Psa. 40:3) R2852:4
Showing forth the glorious character and loving kindness of
our God. R5436:4, R5476:1, R5440:6; CR481:3
Costing trouble, money, misunderstandings, persecution, and
perhaps breaking of home ties. R5441:2
By telling the wonders of the divine plan. R5436:4, R5476:4
Not only as a witness to the world. The witnessing also has a
good effect on us. R5436:4, R5476:1
Psalm 63:5
Shall be satisfied -- David referred to God's favor, raising

him from shepherd boy to king. R5785:2
The Ancient Worthies will not envy the Church, but will be
satisfied when they awake with God's likeness as Adam had
it. R613:2
Shall praise thee -- The Psalms contain many beautiful
expressions of praise and thanksgiving to the Almighty.
R5785:2
Psalm 63:6
When I remember thee -- The spirit of praise is cultivated

by calling to mind and recounting what the Lord has done.
R2031:3
So must the Christian continually call to mind the works of
the Lord, especially in his own individual experiences.
R2031:3
Meditate on thee -- Not thinking foolish thoughts, nor
planning foolish things. R5785:2
In the night watches -- If there is a prophetic thought here,
it is that all through the Dark Ages, all through the nighttime
of this age, God's faithful people have been praising him.
R5785:5
Psalm 64
Psalm 64:3
Shoot their arrows -- Bitter words of the opponents of the

truth. "The arrow that flieth by day." (Psa. 91:5) R3332:1;
SM51:T
Receiving no arrows again in return from those who are
seeking to serve the Lord. R4112:5
Even bitter words -- The method of persecution at the
present time. SM217:2
May hurt our flesh, but cannot do us harm. CR314:3
Possibly the extent of our sufferings may be the wounding
of our feelings. R3002:4
Slanders and misrepresentations of the faithful. R2450:3,
R2560:5, R5288:5; CR351:4*; HG558:1
Psalm 64:4
Shoot in secret -- Injure the righteous. SM50:3

At the perfect -- All identified with the work in a public
way. R5365:3
Psalm 65
Psalm 65:1
In Sion -- The heavenly phase of the Kingdom. A295;

T33; R2737:4
The vow -- The vows of sacrifice. R2737:5
Psalm 65:4
Whom thou choosest -- Not many great and rich are

chosen because their riches usually make them too self-confident
and not sufficiently humble and reliant upon the
Lord. R5605:2
Of thy holy temple -- The Christ. R2508:2; T70;
R2737:5
Psalm 65:7
Noise of the seas -- The restless, ungovernable

masses. A323; C229; D46, D551
Psalm 65:9
Visitest the earth -- The new social order. R3113:6

The river of God -- The river of the water of life, flowing
from the city of God in the Millennial age. R2508:5
Is full of water -- Truth. R2508:3; C65
Psalm 65:10
Waterest the ridges -- The ground of Israel is no more

chapped, for there are now rains in the land. The favor of
Jehovah is causing the city of Jerusalem to revive R1297:5*
Psalm 65:11
Crownest the year -- The Lord's people should

continually keep track of the mercies and blessings they
enjoy and, at the close of a year, take a comparative view of
their experiences. R2737:1
With thy goodness -- Recalling life's storms as well as its
sunshine, its sorrows as well as its joys, its tears as well as
its smiles. R2737:3
Our Lord Jesus was the great channel of this divine goodness,
through whom it reaches his followers. They, in turn, can
become channels for dispensing divine goodness ultimately to
Israel and all the world. R4100:6
Psalm 66
Psalm 66:1
A joyful noise -- The Lord can get along without trained

choirs. What he desires is that all should praise him in their
hearts. R2511:3
All ye lands -- All the world. R5500:3
Psalm 66:8
Our God -- His name is Faithfulness. R5501:2

Ye people -- Primarily relates to natural Israel--even more
appropriately to spiritual Israel. R5500:6
Psalm 66:9
Feet to be moved -- They were not vanquished by their

enemies as long as they trusted and obeyed; so with spiritual
Israel. R5500:6
Psalm 66:10
Proved us -- Probed our heart within. R187:5
Psalm 66:13
Pay thee my vows -- Which David had made in the time of

his trouble. R5500:3
Psalm 66:18
If I regard iniquity -- Pray, being free from

condemnation. R5380:3*
Having prayed against sin, be sure you watch against it.
R585:3*
To take the name of God, claiming to be Christians, without
determination and effort to fairly represent him, is a sin
against God. R1527:6
In my heart -- We are to be loyal to the very core or God

will reject us. SM346:1
The Lord will not hear -- "God heareth not sinners."
(John 9:31) R2024:1
To undertake the Christian life is to engage in a great warfare
against iniquity. R1527:6
iniquity." (2 Tim. 2:19) R1527:6
Psalm 67
Psalm 67:6
Then shall the earth -- By the close of the Millennial age.

E30
Yield her increase -- Easily and naturally. A192
Discoveries are already being made in preparation for the
fulfilment of this promise. SM37:1; R5058:2, R2775:6,
R2776:1-3
Every hope held forth to the Jews is earthly. OV118:1
The entire earth is to become like the Garden of Eden.
R6013:5
Become a fit habitation for man. Q777:1
Psalm 68
Psalm 68:1
Let God arise -- This Psalm seems to be a description of

the journey towards Canaan. (Num. 10:35) R3060:6
Psalm 68:18
Thou hast ascended -- "He that ascended, what is it but

that he first descended, into the lower condition of the earth."
(Eph. 4:9) R5066:3
Captivity captive -- The glorious outcome of the Savior's
work. R5066:2
"A multitude of captives." Our Lord purchased the whole race
of mankind, captives to sin and death. R5066:2, R5067:1
Gifts for men -- "The heavenly gift," the Spirit, at
Pentecost. E210
"And he gave some apostles, and some prophets, and some
evangelists, and some pastors and teachers." (Eph. 4:11)
R567:1, R5265:1
The Church, in turn, will be his gifts for mankind. R5067:6
Psalm 68:20
Belong the issues -- Or escapees from death, which Jesus

owns by purchase. R1337:1*
Psalm 68:21
His enemies -- Those who still (in the Millennium) go on

in their trespasses. R1337:4*
Psalm 69
Psalm 69:4
Without a cause -- Prophetic of Jesus (John 15:25)--who

was crucified because his works were good and theirs were
evil; because he taught the way of the Lord more perfectly
than they. R5215:2
Psalm 69:8
Unto my brethren -- In the case of Jesus and the early

Church, the persecution came from their brethren according to
the flesh, the Jews. Since then, from their nominal Christian
brethren. R5215:5
Psalm 69:9
The zeal -- That which is warm, aglow, hot. R5250:2

Born of love. R3296:1
That eager, arduous, active interest in the Lord's plans and
their development which is begotten of sincerest love for the
Lord and those dear to him. R913:2*
The measure of our zeal in the service is the measure of our
love for the heavenly Bridegroom. R913:6*
The more love there is connected with our consecration to
God, the more quickly will it consume our offering. T46
If we have the spirit of Christ, it will be the spirit of service.
R5250:2
Of thine house -- David had a zeal for the Tabernacle and
the Temple. Jesus had a zeal in cleansing the Temple. But
now the Church is the house of God, the Temple. (1 Cor.
6:19) R5250:1
Hath eaten me up -- Our Lord's zeal prompted him to lay
down his life for us, and he invites the Church to be similarly
consumed with him in service to the Church. R5250:2
Consumed all my energies. R913:2*
And the reproaches -- "Let us go to him without the
camp, bearing the reproach with him." (Heb. 13:13) T62
All associated with the truth will bear some of its reproaches.
R1798:5
Are fallen upon me -- Christ and all who faithfully teach
the truth. E490
Psalm 69:21
Vinegar to drink -- Prophetic of the circumstances of

Jesus' sacrificial death. R1205:2, R1394:5
Not ordinary vinegar, but more properly sour wine, the
common, cheap drink of soldiers. R2474:3
Jesus hungered and thirsted that we might have the water and
bread of life. R4173:3
Psalm 69:22
Let their table -- The table of fleshly Israel, so bountifully

spread with the rich promises and blessings offered them
through Christ. B215; R4287:6
Become a snare - Because of their hardness of heart. B215
Psalm 69:23
Eyes be darkened -- They have stumbled, they are

blinded; but their blindness is not to be perpetual. CR104:3;
SM398:T
The period of their blindness is the second part of the
"double"; with its fulfilment, their blindness will begin to
vanish, and "all the blind eyes shall be opened." (Isa 35:5)
CR104:3
Psalm 69:33
Not his prisoners -- Death's captives. A112
Psalm 72
Psalm 72:1
Give the king -- Christ during the Millennial age. B138

This King whom thou hast appointed. R1415:5
Thy judgments -- The execution of thy grand designs.
R1415:5
Unto the king's -- Jehovah's. R1415:5
Son -- Messiah's Kingdom is to rule the world in
The Body of Christ is, collectively with their Head, the King's
son. R49:1*
Psalm 72:2
Thy people -- For thy people. R1415:2

With righteousness -- In due time, God will establish
righteousness in the earth. R5115:3
And thy poor -- And for thy afflicted. R1415:2
With judgment -- With justice. R1415:2
Psalm 72:3
The mountains -- New ruling powers of Christ's Kingdom.

R1415:2
The little hills -- The tributary powers under the main

government. R1415:2
Psalm 72:4
He shall save -- Shall give help to the children of the

needy. R1415:2
Break In pieces -- This will be the beginning of the

purgatorial judgments of the Millennium--in favor of the poor
and against the wealthy. R1470:4
The oppressor -- All oppressive systems and institutions--
civil, social, financial and religious. R1415:1; OV46:3
Psalm 72:5
Sun and moon endure -- The glorified Church will have

no need of the sun or moon (Rev. 21:23) literally, because
they will be spirit beings. Symbolically, she will not need the
light of the Gospel or Jewish ages because of her more
excellent glory. R2833:6
Nothing in the above indicates that the world will not have
need of both sunlight and moonlight during the Millennial age
and subsequently. R2833:6
Psalm 72:6
Like rain -- Symbol of truth, refreshing--"showers of

blessings." (Ezek. 34:26) R5575:5
Upon the mown grass -- The world of mankind, after they
have been shorn of all that has encumbered them and
prevented the showers of grace from reaching their hearts.
R5575:5
Water the earth -- "Times of refreshing." (Acts 3:19)
R1414:6
Psalm 72:7
In his days -- In "the world to come, wherein dwelleth

righteousness." (Heb 2:5; 2Pet 3:13) A67
In the reign of Christ. R492:5
Righteous flourish -- Temporally, mentally, physically,
morally. R2763:5
The reverse of what we now witness. R1412:3, R2406:2;
HG538:2, HG681:2
The same rule as in the Jewish age--faithfulness brought
temporal prosperity. R2060:6
The very circumstances which now make sacrifice necessary
will be gone; consequently, the opportunity for sacrificing
will be gone. R443:1
The rewards and punishments will be equitable. An appeal
will be made to the hearts, supplemented by stripes,
judgments and chastisements. R3304:6
This has not been fulfilled yet. R5853:5
Abundance of peace -- Because the King, the Lord's
Anointed, rules in righteousness and princes decree justice.
(Isa 32:1) R3114:1
Psalm 72:8
From sea to sea -- While there is a work of grace now

going on in the hearts of believers, a veritable Kingdom of
God is yet to be established under the whole heavens. A282
Ends of the earth -- Christ's Kingdom will be without an
opponent. R4974:4, R1415:1
After every evil thing has been destroyed, every creature in
heaven and in earth will be heard praising God. (Rev 5:13)
R5183:2
"As truly as I live, the whole earth shall be filled with the
glory of the Lord." (Num 14:21) R1415:1
Psalm 72:9
In the wilderness -- Beyond the pale of Christendom.

R1415:1
And his enemies -- Those who, after full knowledge,
oppose the Kingdom and its laws. R1415:1
Wilful enemies--not the ones referred to by Jesus when he
said, "Love your enemies." (Matt. 5:44) R1176:1
Shall lick the dust -- Be destroyed. R1415:1, R1176:1
Signifying the destruction of Satan, symbolized by the
serpent. "Dust shall be the serpent's meat. (Isa. 65:25)
R5574:4
Psalm 72:10
And of the isles -- Symbol of republics. R511:3
Psalm 72:11
Yea, all kings -- The prominent and influential among

men. R1415:1
Psalm 72:12
Deliver the needy -- By causing the general leveling of

society. R1955:1
When he crieth -- Pray, pleading our need. R5380:5*
Psalm 72:14
Shall their blood -- Their lives. R1415:4
Psalm 72:15
He shall live -- Receive all the blessings of everlasting life

which God has made provision for through Messiah.
R5706:4
Of the gold -- Representing obedience. R3703:4
Have we laid at his feet our earthly substance, our gold?
R3703:5
Psalm 72:16
An handful of corn -- An abundance of corn. R1415:4

Top of the mountains -- As a blessing from the King.
R1415:4
The fruit thereof -- The fruitage of our Lord's death was
the bringing forth of the Church. The dying of those grains is
to bring forth the appointed crop. R4354:3
Like Lebanon -- Like the trees of Lebanon. R1415:4
And they of the city -- Those blessed by the Kingdom of
God. R1415:4
Psalm 72:17
Endure for ever -- Be as that of a son, continuing his

father's name forever. R1415:4
As long as the sun -- As the sun's brightness increases to
noon, so shall the honor of the Messiah grow brighter and
brighter as the mists and gloom of sin are driven away.
R1415:4
Blessed in him -- Blessed through him; it will be in and by
the blood of the Lamb that this opportunity for cleansing shall
come. R1415:4
Christ, Head and Body. R238:4*
All nations -- Including the half -civilized and savage
tribes. R1415:1
Psalm 72:18
Doeth wondrous things -- Whose wisdom alone devised

the wondrous plan. R1415:5
Psalm 72:19
With his glory --The whole earth shall be filled with the
glory of the Lord. B99
Psalm 72:20
Are ended -- Summed up. R303:2*
Psalm 73
Psalm 73:2
Well nigh slipped -- In former ignorance and foolishness,

until he held us up by the right hand (verse 23), and did not
suffer us to fall. R1562:5
Psalm 73:3
1 was envious -- If justice be delayed it is only for the

development of some greater good than could be
accomplished by a speedy adjustment. R2025:5
Prosperity -- The effect of Satan's reign on sinners.
R492:3
Of the wicked -- Who, in the present life, flourish more
often than do the righteous. R1383:5
Psalm 73:5
They -- The wicked class, the worldly. R1652:3

Not in trouble -- All suffering is not the direct penal result
of some personal sin. R1773:3
It is very seldom, indeed, that God visits punishment upon the
world in the present time. R569:5
As other men -- The saints. R1652:3
But we see the justified ones suffer and die just like other
men. R1561:1
Psalm 73:7
With fatness -- Under the reign of the prince of darkness,

evildoers often have great success. R5778:2; CR493:4
They seem to go unheeded in their wrong course. R4856:4
Psalm 73:8
Wickedly concerning -- In the wickedness of oppression.

R1562:2
Loftily -- From the chief places of power and control.

R1562:2
Psalm 73:9
Their tongue walketh -- Their influence has free course.

R1562:2
Psalm 73:10
Therefore his people -- God's people. R1562:3

Return hither --Turn into the wilderness condition of
separation from the world. R1562:3
And a full cup -- Of affliction and persecution. R1562:3
Psalm 73:11
And they say -- The ungodly say. R1562:3

Psalm 73:12
Prosper in the world -- Occupying the chief places of

control--political, financial and religious. R1562:4
Because, during this age, Satan is permitted to be the prince
of this world--to rule as he will. R569:2, R5778:2
Psalm 73:17
Into the sanctuary -- The holy place of entire consecration

to God, typified in the Holy of the Tabernacle. R1562:4
Their end -- In the day of judgment they will get their
lessons and have much more difficulty than those who learn
the lessons now. R4856:4
"The Lord knoweth how to reserve the unjust unto the day of
judgment to be punished." (2 Pet. 2:9) R569:5
Psalm 73:22
So foolish was I -- In being envious of the prosperous

wicked. R1562:5
Psalm 73:24
Thou shalt guide me -- Nothing indicates that God is

pleased to guide his people by impressing his thoughts upon
them in any other way than through his Word. R2240:6
If the heart desires guidance, divine light will be shed through
the Word, under the illuminating power of the holy Spirit.
R590:5*
One of life's most important lessons is our own insufficiency,
our own lack of wisdom. R2240:2
He will not drive his sheep, but goeth before them to lead,
that they may follow. R2672:3
We should not expect to be able always to comprehend the
divine wisdom which is so much beyond our own, yet we can
often see it afterward. R1562:2
With thy counsel -- As contained in the Scriptures.
R2240:5
Those who can be guided only by continual scourgings are
not of the overcoming class. E234
Not only respecting the life to come, but also respecting the
things of this present life. R2240:2
We believe in divine providences, but these do not supplant
God's written Word. R2240:5
Even the best of earthly counsel is of value only as it has been
directed by the divine counsel. R2240:3
As a natural man, Jesus had no need of the Father's special
counsel, being perfect and able to guide his own way, but as a
spirit-begotten individual he, like the members of his Body,
needed the Father's counsel. R4246:6*
Afterward -- If we give heed to the counsel. R2240:3
The present life, being preparatory, is a time for the schooling
and discipline of the sons of God. R1561:2
"Afterwards it yieldeth the peaceable fruits of righteousness."
(Heb. 12:11) R1562:2
Receive me to glory -- The overcomers of the Gospel age
to celestial glory and the overcomers of the Millennial age to
terrestrial glory. R2242:5
Only those who seek diligently to know the most minute
features of the Lord's counsel will afterward be received into
glory. R4247:2*
Those of the Jewish age into the glory of the earthly phase of
the Kingdom; those of the Gospel age into the glory of the
heavenly phase. R1562:2
It was not the man Christ Jesus that was received into glory.
R4247:1*
Psalm 73:26
My heart faileth -- The flesh is too weak and the heart is

too faint to pursue the course marked out for the righteous in
this evil time, except as strengthened and upheld by power
from on high. R1562:5
Jesus realized that, as a human being, though perfect, his
heart and flesh would fail unless reinforced by divine grace.
R1807:2
Psalm 74
Psalm 74:1
Sheep of thy pasture -- We are his sheep. The Jews were

also referred to as God's sheep. R5383:2
Psalm 75
Psalm 75:3
The earth -- Not the literal, physical earth, but the

symbolic earth, society as at present organized. R1813:6
Psalm 75:6
Promotion -- All prominence, all promotion, and all

control of the Church, is in the hands of the Lord. R5711:1
Cometh -- The Church is on the way to a promotion, a
prominence, greater than that of all others. R5710:6
Neither -- Throughout the Scriptures, the North seems to
be closely associated with Jehovah's government of earth.
R5710:3
The members of the Church do not promote their own selfish
interests, but lay down their lives in carrying out God's great
purpose and plan. R5711:1
Psalm 75:7
God is the judge -- The great eminence which Lucifer in

his pride sought to grasp, that he might "sit on the sides of
the north," will be granted as a reward to The Christ. (Isa.
14:13; Psa. 48:2) R5711:2
All things are of the Father and by the Son. In this work of
judging the world, Christ will be the Judge, and the Church
will be the associate judges. R5710:6
He -- "God hath set the members, every one of them, in the
body as it has pleased him." (1 Cor. 12:18) R5711:2
Putteth down -- Therefore a brother, losing the office of
elder or deacon, should accept the decision as from the Lord.
R5305:6, R5711:3
The Lord will put down the attempt of the great usurper,
Satan, to rule the world. R5710:5, R5305:5
Setteth up another -- God sets up elders and deacons
through the voice of the church. R5305:5
As he set up Nebuchadnezzar as the head of gold and raised
up Pharaoh. (Ex. 9:16; Rom. 9:17) R5305:2
Psalm 75:10
All the horns -- Horns are symbols of power. T42

Psalm 76
Psalm 76:2
Salem -- The most ancient name of Jerusalem. R1296:3*

In Zion -- The spiritual phase of the Kingdom of God.
A295; T33
Psalm 76:6
Both the chariot -- Symbol of worldly organizations.

C316
And horse -- Symbol of doctrine. C316
Psalm 76:8
From heaven -- From the new powers of spiritual control.

A318; D618
The earth -- The present organizations of society. C229;
D46
Psalm 76:10
The wrath of man -- The Lord has even used the devil as
his agent. R5527:1
In far-seeing wisdom, God has permitted all present disorders.
R1408:5
The Adversary may have had to do with the movement
toward communism, socialism and anarchism. Q579:4
Shall praise thee -- Unintentionally, by working out thy
plans. E448; Q23:6; R5205:4, R799:1
This would imply that the affairs of the world may be safely
left with the world, under the Lord's supervision. R3853:3
Some agencies, not in themselves good, will be made use of
in destroying present evil governments, thus accomplishing
the Lord's purpose. R592:5, R5061:4
The wrath of men and devils, while not in any sense of God,
shall be operated or controlled by God's providence. R1778:4
The remainder of wrath -- That which would work no
good, serve no purpose, or teach no lesson, but which would
be subversive to the divine arrangements. R3179:5; A250;
R5257:5, R4843:1*, R2973:6
Shalt thou restrain -- Not permit to interfere with his
plan. R1270:1
God's actions, where he has interfered at all, have been
toward the restraining of sin. R1779:1, R1270:4
Psalm 76:11
Vow and pay -- Taking a vow, let us keep it in letter and

spirit. R4267:4
Psalm 77
Psalm 77:3
And my spirit -- Ruach, mind, courage. E318
Psalm 77:6
And my spirit Ruach, mind. E318
Psalm 77:10
I will remember -- Nothing is more encouraging to faith

than to consider the Lord's past faithfulness to us and his
promise that thus it shall be unto the end. R2163:5*
In Israel, the spirit of praise was cultivated by calling to mind
and recounting what the Lord had done for them. R2031:6
So must the Christian continually call to mind the works of
the Lord, especially his own individual experiences of the
Lord's leading, care and deliverance. R2031:6
Psalm 77:12
I will meditate -- With a meek and prayerful spirit; not

read carelessly. R2146:5*
Work . . . doings -- Here the two great books of nature and
revelation are pointed out as special themes for meditation.
R1390:6
Psalm 77:15
With thine arm -- The Lord Jesus. E47
Psalm 77:18
Voice of thy thunder -- Symbol of controversy. R576:6

Was in the heaven -- In "the day of his preparation" (Nah.
2:3) for the blessings of mankind. R738:5
The lightnings -- Diffusions of knowledge. R511:2
Not the brilliancy of the "Brain Age." A171; R738:5;
HG346:5
Lightened the world -- In "the day of his preparation"
(Nah. 2:3) for the blessings of mankind. A171
Psalm 78
Psalm 78:2
In a parable -- If our Lord's parables and dark sayings be

taken as plain, literal statements, they will lead to all kinds of
error. R4644:1
It is the invisible world which is the fact. It is the visible
world which is the metaphor. This fact is why the Bible is so
inexhaustible in its meanings. R29:5*
"Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of
God, but unto them that are without, all these things are done
in parables, that seeing they may see and not perceive, and
hearing they may hear and not understand." (Mark 4:11)
R3763:3
The misconceptions of our forefathers on the subject of
punishment for sins were built upon mistranslations or
statements meant to be understood symbolically. HG653:6
I will utter -- Our Lord opened his mouth in figures and
obscure sayings. R2602:6
Dark sayings -- Without his enlightenment through the
Apostles, his words would today be dark and not understood.
OV151:5; R5455:5, R5088:1
Of old -- Expound the hidden truths of ancient prophecy.
F233
Psalm 78:9
Children of Ephraim -- Ephraim was the name of the ten-tribe

kingdom of Israel, as Judah was the name given to the
two-tribe kingdom. R3463:3
Psalm 78:25
Angels' food -- The manna, a food supplied by the Lord's

providence. R4011:6
Representing our spiritual supplies. R3036:6
All life, other than immortal, both of angels and men, must be
supplied by food or other conditions. R280:1, R252:3
Psalm 78:35
God their redeemer -- Gaal, the one who sets free by

payment. E438
Psalm 78:40
Provoke -- Though God is love, the children of Israel

aroused his indignation repeatedly. R5125:1
Psalm 78:50
Soul from death -- Not the body, but the being, called in
the Scriptures, soul, dies. R277:1
The soul can be destroyed by its Creator. R1882:1;
HG334:5
Psalm 78:71
His inheritance -- The people over whom he ruled, under

Jehovah. A248
Psalm 79
Psalm 79:5
Burn like fire -- In the time of trouble. "Fire of my

jealousy." (Zeph. 3:8) D528
Psalm 79:7
Jacob -- Natural Israel. A300
Psalm 79:11
Of the prisoner -- Death's captives. A112
Psalm 79:13
Sheep of thy pasture -- The Jews are referred to as God's

sheep. R5383:2
Psalm 80
Psalm 80:1

a foundation of justice. "The Lord of hosts that dwelleth
between the cherubims." (2 Sam. 6:2) T124
Shine forth -- A bright light represented Jehovah's
presence.T123
Psalm 80:15
And the vineyard -- "The vineyard of the Lord of hosts is

the house of Israel." (Isa. 5:7) R1795:3, R5504:3
Right hand -- The vine of the Father's right-hand planting,
the fruitage of which is the character-likeness of Christ.
R5505:5
And the branch -- He will not look for ripe clusters on the
new branch, or even green grapes, but for the small indication
of the fruit-bud; and subsequently, the blossoming of these in
flower. F170
Psalm 80:17
Of thy right hand -- Position of power and authority. A92

Psalm 81
Psalm 81:1
A joyful noise -- All who have heart sentiments of

thankfulness and gratitude should be encouraged to make "a
joyful noise unto the Lord" without trained choirs being
necessary. R2511:4
Psalm 81:16
Finest of the wheat -- It is necessary that the New

Creature be fed upon it. R5735:6
Psalm 82
Psalm 82:T
A Psalm of Asaph -- A Psalm for Asaph--to set to music.

This Psalm is questioned by Higher Critics, but Jesus quotes
from it in John 10:34, 35. R1418:2
Asaph was a Levite whom David made musical director in
the services of the Sanctuary. R1418:2; HG310:5
Psalm 82:1
God -- Elohim, Christ appointed by the Father to judge the

world now. E69
Of the mighty -- The saints. R1410:3, R296:3, R338:2,
R421:3
The financial, political and ecclesiastical princes. D53; E69
Among the gods -- These same Elohim, mighty ones,
saying. D53; E69
Psalm 82:2
How long will ye -- Ye earthly princes. D53; E69
Psalm 82:5
They know not -- Earth's mighty ones need not his

reproofs. E69
Walk on in darkness -- Respecting the outcome of their
policy. E69
Until, as a consequence. D55
All the foundations -- The established principles of law
and order. D55
Of the earth -- The present social structure. D55, D542;
E69
Are out of course -- Moved, terribly shaken. D55
And must be removed, is his decision. E69
All the basic principles of the present social structure are
distorted, out of proper relationship to each other, in
confusion. HG551:4
Psalm 82:6
I have said -- Distinctly termed by Jesus as part of the

"Scripture" which "cannot be broken." (John 10:34, 35)
HG310:6
He now addresses his faithful Little Flock. E69
Ye are gods -- Elohim, mighty ones, applied to the saints.
C239; E68
Quoted by Jesus in John 10:35. C239
You are children -- "Beloved, now are we the sons of
God." (1 John 3:2) E69
The present work is that of selecting this class. R5007:1
Not only was Jesus the Son of God, but he said he would
bring many sons to God. R5623:3
Of the most High -- Claiming Jehovah as our Father is
claiming that we are divine beings, hence all such are gods.
R474:1
Psalm 82:7
Ye shall die -- All who have consecrated themselves unto

death. "But we shall not all sleep." (1 Cor.15:51) C238,
C239; Q117:2
There is no other way of entering into the spirit nature than by
dying according to the flesh. R5624:2
Nevertheless, though the natural man understands it not, these
are passed over, or rescued, from death. F460
Like men -- Like other men. E68; Q122:2; R5729:1,
R338:2, R421:4, R3823:3
It is as co-sacrificers with Christ that the death of the saints is
esteemed by God. (Psa. 116:15) C239
Or, as men. R4519:4
Confirming the distinction between men and the "New
Creatures," between the human and the divine natures.
R515:1
One of the princes -- Not like Prince Adam, but like
Prince Jesus. F444; E68; HG368:3; R301:6, R1106:3
Dead with Christ; made conformable unto his death. C239
The world in general die like Adam, sharing his sentence.
F724
Literally, heads (Young's translation). R301:2, R473:6
As joint-sacrificers with Jesus in his death of obedience.
R2982:6
"Filling up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ."
(Col. 1:24) R3175:3
Psalm 82:8
Arise, O God -- As soon as the elect Church have all died,

Christ will be called upon. E69
In Psa. 110:1 we see Jesus at Jehovah's right-hand, waiting
for his enemies to be made his footstool. Then he who had
said unto him, "Sit," shall say, "Arise." R303:1*
Judge the earth -- Let loose the judgments of the time of
trouble. E69
Inherit all nations -- In the succeeding "Times of
Restitution." (Acts 3:21) E69
Psalm 83
Psalm 83:18
Alone is JEHOVAH -- This title belongs only to the

Father. E65, E66, E47; R379:5
The distinctive personal name of the Almighty Father, never
applied to any other being. R1410:6
Psalm 84
Psalm 84:1
How amiable -- How lovely. D652

In the eyes of all who have the same spirit. R1401:6
Tabernacles -- Dwelling places. D652
"Ye are the temple of the living God." (2 Cor. 6:16)
R2080:3*
Wherever God is, there is his Tabernacle. Wherever there is
a loyal consecrated heart, there is the dwelling place of God.
R2080:3*
Such are not only tabernacles individually, but the Church of
Christ as a whole is one great Temple of the future. R1401:6
O LORD of hosts -- Jehovah of hosts. D652
Psalm 84:2
My soul longeth -- After more and more of the

manifestations of the divine favor. R2080:3*
Courts of the LORD -- Wherein the individual tabernacles
will be brought together into one grand holy Temple of God.
R1401:6
Crieth out for -- Shout with joy unto. D652
Psalm 84:3
Yea, the sparrow -- Leeser's translation is better:

"Even as the sparrow hath found a house and the swallow a
nest for herself, where she may lay her young, (so have I
found) thy altars, O Lord of hosts, my King, my God."
R1402:2
Even thine altars -- Even so have I found thy altars. D652
The Brazen altar in the Court representing the ransom-sacrifice
of Christ, and the Golden altar representing the
Church's acceptableness as joint sacrificers with him.
R1402:2
Psalm 84:4
Blessed are they -- Happy are they. D652

In thy house -- Now, or at any time. R1402:2
They will be still -- They shall be continually. D652
Psalm 84:5
Whose strength -- Whose strong confidence. D652

In whose heart -- Whose heart reflecteth wholly on the
paths of righteousness. D652
The ways of them -- Portraying the journey of the
consecrated toward the heavenly home. R1402:2
Psalm 84:6
The valley of Baca -- The valley of mourning, or "tears."

D653
"The valley of the shadow of death." (Psa. 23:4) R1402:4
Make it a well -- Turn it into a place of joy-springs, a
"Valley of Blessings." D653
The rain also -- The outpouring of the Millennial blessing,
after the great time of trouble has ended, at the second advent.
R1402:4
Psalm 84:7
Strength to strength -- A matter of growth. "First the

blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear." (Mark
4:28) R5912:6
Showing the progressiveness of the journey. R1402:4
Every one of them -- It is an individual work, not a
congregational or sectarian one. R1402:4
Appeareth -- May be presented perfect. D653
Psalm 84:10
Than a thousand -- Elsewhere. R1402:4, R2080:3*

Be a doorkeeper -- Wait during the present life for
admission to the Father's house. R1402:4
Psalm 84:11
For the LORD God -- Even while we wait for admission

into his presence. R1402:4
Is a sun -- To shine upon our pathway and into our hearts,
enlightening us and filling us with a sense of his greatness and
perfection. R1906:2, R1402:4, R4219:6
And shield -- To protect us from all the fiery darts of the
wicked. R1906:4
The merit of Christ is freely imputed to all who will accept it
as their covering or shield. R1402:5
Grace and glory -- Favor and honor, mingled with
tribulation working patience. R1402:5
No good thing -- Really advantageous and useful to fit us
for admission to the Father's house. R1402:5, R5835:5
Yea, even chastisements and sorrowful experiences. R5654:2
Our bread and water shall be sure. (Isa. 33:16) R2326:3
Will he withhold -- For the proper development of his
children. R5296:4
Even in this present life. R2087:4
But he requires sometimes that we wait for a considerable
time. At other times there may be a speedy answer. R5835:5
Psalm 84:12
Blessed is the man -- Now and forever. R1402:5

Psalm 85
Psalm 85:1
Brought back -- Cyrus gave Israel liberty to return from

Babylonian captivity. Messiah, the antitypical Cyrus, is about
to give full liberty for the return of Israel to divine favor, to
Palestine. OV176:3; R4892:2
Captivity of Jacob -- Natural Israel. A300
Psalm 85:2
Forgiven the iniquity -- The Deliverer will do more than

merely regather them. R4892:2
Israel's sins have not yet been taken away. OV176:4
Psalm 85:6
Revive us again -- Israel has the promise of a mighty

deliverance. OV176:3
Psalm 85:11
Out of the earth -- The earthly phase of the Kingdom.

D653
Down from heaven -- The heavenly phase of the
Kingdom. D653
Psalm 85:12
Yield her increase -- Until the whole earth shall smile as

the Garden of Eden and break forth into singing. R1248:3
Psalm 86
Psalm 86:5
Ready to forgive -- Let your faith grow strong by

meditation upon the promises. R5381:5*
Psalm 86:8
Among the gods -- Elohim, mighty ones. E67
Psalm 86:9
Glorify thy name -- "When thy judgments are made

manifest." (Rev. 15:4) All will hail him as the infinitely wise
one. R5430:4
Psalm 86:13
Delivered my soul -- Christ's soul. E365

From the lowest hell -- Depth of sheol, oblivion.
Peculiarly applicable to Jesus since he was liable to perpetual
oblivion if not raised from the dead. E365
Margin, the grave. R2599:3
The gradual change of language has attached a totally
different meaning to the word "hell" than it originally had--
the grave. PD29/41
Psalm 87
Psalm 87:2
The gates of Zion -- The heavenly phase of the Kingdom.

A295; T33; R4454:1
Dwellings of Jacob -- Natural Israel. A300
Psalm 87:3
O city of God -- The Kingdom of God, the Church.

C229; D25
Psalm 87:5
Zion -- The heavenly Zion, those who shall be born in the

first resurrection. Q330:4; CR335:5
Was born in her -- There will be a list made so the world
will know who are on the other side. CR388:1, CR52:5
Psalm 87:6
Shall count -- A very honorable roll call, the Lamb's book

of life. Soon everybody will know about it. CR52:4
Psalm 88
Psalm 88:3
Is full of troubles -- Rendered "evil" in "I create evil."

(Isa. 45:7) A125
Nigh unto the grave -- Sheol, oblivion, death, not torment.
E365
Psalm 88:4
I am counted -- By my enemies; but none will be in this

class whose hearts are in the attitude of the Psalmist.
R2338:2
The writer is not declaring his own opinion, but merely
saying how he is regarded by others. R2338:2
Psalm 88:5
Lie in the grave -- Qebar, tomb, place of interment.

E348
Rememberest no more -- Disesteemed by others as one
unworthy of any future life, remanded to the Second Death.
R2338:2
Psalm 88:11
Declared in the grave -- There must be a resurrection

before they can give God thanks. HG121:5
Psalm 88:12
Land of forgetfulness -- Not pain, suffering or remorse.

R2599:2
Where we can neither help nor hinder, do good or do harm.
SM28:T
A condition of extinction. CR209:1*
Thus Lazarus and others were silent about their experiences
in hades. R822:6*
"There is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, in the grave
whither thou goest." (Eccl. 9:10) R2599:2
Psalm 88:13

A9; E359
Psalm 89
Psalm 89:6
The mighty -- Hebrew, El, signifying strong or powerful;

applicable to any powerful being, especially to the most
powerful, the Almighty Jehovah. R296:2
Psalm 89:7
To be feared -- Not treated with irreverent familiarity.

R2002:2
When the people, contrary to the Law, looked into the Ark
(symbol of the divine presence), and God punished them.
R2002:6
A feeling of profound respect, often mingled with awe and
affection. R2002:3
Psalm 89:9
Raging of the sea -- The restless masses of mankind.

A318
Psalm 89:10
With thy strong arm -- The power of Jehovah; in the

highest sense, Jesus. E47
Psalm 89:14
Justice -- Jehovah's government is based on justice, not on

mercy. R4980:6, R5857:1; OV229:4; SM661:1; R586:5
Justice must also be the foundation principle governing our
lives, the foundation of all Christian character. R5431:5,
R5857:1
Only after we have rendered justice are we at liberty to
practice love towards another. SM354:1
The results of injustice will be more injurious to the doer than
to the victim. R4500:6
Represented by the slab of the Mercy Seat, above which the
glory of the Lord appeared in the Most Holy. T124
The basic principle of God's character. R2120:5
If God were an unjust God we could never depend on him.
R5857:1
All the power, all the justice, all the wisdom of God must be
used in accord with his own character, which is love.
R5210:6
Its value manifested in the great expense at which God
maintained it inviolate--the sacrifice of his only begotten Son.
R1275:2*
Judgment -- Equity. R769:2
Are the habitation -- The foundation. Otherwise his
creation would become filled with imperfect beings. E472
The just sentence against Adam would have stood forever had
no acceptable substitute been found. E421
While love can guide divine justice, justice must rule.
R5159:6
The principle which underlies all God's dealings with his
creatures; God's unchanging business principle. R5884:1
Justice is the basis of love. R5266:1
Therefore the satisfaction of justice is the satisfaction of God.
Q388:T
Therefore God cannot justly set aside his own laws.
HG309:1
Throne -- Empire. R5210:6
Mercy and truth -- God maintains the even tenor of his
rule of righteousness, but makes special provision for the
sinner race through Christ Jesus. SM662:1
God's own character (love) and law (justice) are twin
bulwarks, each as high and strong as the other. R2328:1
Psalm 89:15
That know -- Can distinguish the joyful sound of the

heavenly message. R2569:3
The joyful sound -- Turnah, Jubilee (Lev. 25:9), the
Gospel. "Good tidings of great joy, which shall be unto all
people." (Luke 2:10) R2569:5, R2568:3
Shout. Jubilee means "time of shouting" or "shout."
R2025:3*
The "shout" (of encouragement) (1 Thes 4:16) should be
understood to be the people's response to the Jubilee trumpet
blown by the priests. R2026:2
The new song of Moses and the Lamb. R2569:6
They -- Those whom God has blessed with a knowledge of
Present Truth. R2570:1
Shall walk -- In the narrow way of self-control and self-sacrifice,
even unto death. R2570:4
In the light -- Shall be his blessed people. R2570:4
In the path "that shineth more and more unto the perfect
day." (Prov 4:18) R2570:4
Psalm 89:17
Our horn -- Horns are symbols of power. T42
Psalm 89:19
Laid help upon -- Because a sinless sacrifice was needed.

E96
Accomplishing salvation through the Son--every feature is of
the Father and by the Son. R3172:3
One that is mighty -- Mighty to deliver from the power of
death. SM116:2
Fully qualified. R3172:3
Primarily our Lord Jesus, but subsequently The Christ
complete--Head and Body. R1936:2
"Mighty to save" --having both the right and power to call the
dead to life, and the ability to instruct, discipline and lead
back to the perfect estate. R3951:2, R713:2
Psalm 89:20
David my servant -- Christ. The name David means

"beloved." R1364:2
David's character was a beautiful type of Christ. R1936:5
Anointed him -- In the following verses the "sure mercies"
of David (Isa. 55:3) are enumerated. R1936:5, R1364:2
Psalm 89:21
With whom my hand -- Power, dominion, kingdom.

R1936:4
Mine arm -- Of support and strength. R1936:4
Strengthen him -- To perform the great preparatory work
of sacrifice. R1936:4
Psalm 89:22
Afflict him -- "All things shall work together for good to

those who love God." (Rom 8:28) R1936:4
Psalm 89:24
Shall his horn -- Authority and power. R1936:4
Psalm 89:25
In the sea -- His power will in due time control all the
restless, ungovernable masses of the world. R1936:4
Psalm 89:26
Art my father -- Realizing communion and fellowship

with God even in the midst of their earthly trials. R1936:5
Psalm 89:27
Him my firstborn -- "The firstborn of all creation." (Col.

1:15) E87
Head of the "Church of the firstborn." (Heb. 12:23) R1936:5
The Logos was Jehovah God's first creative act as respects
intelligent beings. SM491:2
Psalm 89:29
His seed also -- The redeemed and restored race of

mankind. R1936:5
By redemption and regeneration. R1364:2
To endure for ever -- They shall have everlasting life.
R1936:5
Psalm 89:32
Then -- During the Millennial age. A303
Psalm 89:34
My covenant -- The Abrahamic and the New covenants,

particularly. R3109:2
Not break, nor alter -- "I am the same, I change not."
(Mal. 3:6) R3107:3
"That we might have strong consolation, who have fled for
refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: which hope we
have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast." (Heb.
6:18, 19) R3109:3
The Lord would have his people similarly faithful to their
covenants. R3109:5
Psalm 89:35
Not lie unto David -- Unto Christ. R1936:5
Psalm 89:36
His seed -- The genealogical records, as given by Matthew

and Luke, prove that Jesus was the son of David. R944:1*
Psalm 89:45
Hast thou shortened -- Prophetic of the painful

circumstances of Jesus' sacrificial death. R1205:2
Psalm 89:48
His soul -- Being. R205:4

Hand of the grave -- Power of sheol, oblivion, death.
E348, E365
It is not the body, but the being, soul, that dies. R205:4,
R277:1
Psalm 90
Psalm 90:T
A prayer of Moses -- Written by Moses. R1418:2,

R4055:2*; HG310:5
Psalm 90:1
LORD -- Jehovah. E45

Dwelling place -- Refuge. The city of refuge which God
has provided for us is Christ, under the cover of his merit, his
robe of righteousness. R3116:1
Psalm 90:2
From everlasting -- From all eternity, without a

beginning. E86; CR247:1; R338:4, R421:5, R3920:3,
R4107:2
His qualities and attributes have always been the same.
R5209:3
With unlimited time, he is working out his plan with great
deliberation. R5251:3
Back of all inanimate causes there must be an intelligent first
cause, an intelligent designer, and that is God. R675:6
Contrary to Mormonism. HG731:4
To everlasting -- Self -centered, self -contained, the same
yesterday, today and forever, he changes not. SM483:4
Psalm 90:3
Man to destruction -- A condition of peaceful

unconsciousness. R2172:3
As a natural result of the penalty on father Adam. E363;
F331
To sheol, hades, the grave. HG228:3
Not torture. R649:3, R846:4
And sayest, Return -- In resurrection, because the price is
paid. E353; R615:5*; HG333:5
The revival of man's life will not make him immortal or
incapable of destruction. HG358:3
Psalm 90:4
For a thousand years -- From the divine standpoint "a day

with the Lord is as a thousand years." (2 Pet. 3:8) "In the day
that thou eatest thereof." (Gen. 2:17) SM151:2
It was within one of these "days" that Adam died at the age of
930. F332
God has permitted a reign of evil during six of these
thousand-year days. PD18/26
"A little while and ye shall not see me: and again, a little
while, and ye shall see me." (John 16:16) R702:4
But as yesterday -- It is only as measured by the shortness
of present life that the 6000 years of evil seems very long.
R1092:4
The lapse of time between death and the awakening will be
nothing to the dead when it is past, since they are entirely
unconscious of it. R1017:6
Watch in the night -- To God a thousand years are but a
watch in the night. R5210:3
Showing that even a shorter period than a "day" can be
referred to as a thousand years. SM151:2
Psalm 90:5
They are as a sleep -- Rest, or peaceful sleep. R2172:3
Psalm 90:10
And we fly away -- Into the land of the enemy, the

prisonhouse of death. R4792:6
Psalm 90:12
Number our days -- Counting the days as so many

blessings, so many privileges, so many opportunities to serve.
R2896:6
"Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord."
(Rom. 12:11) R1532:2
Psalm 90:17
And let the beauty -- The justice, mercy, wisdom and

power. R2570:5
Psalm 91
Psalm 91:1
He that dwelleth -- The Church in the end of this Gospel

age, The Christ. R4925:3, R5437:3; A338
The cause of protection for those who do not fall is the fact
that they live in God. R862:3, R593:4, R4227:6
In the secret place -- Of consecration, communion and
fellowship. D66; R1788:2; HG717:3
Typified by the Holy (Most Holy, D43; R3331:5) of the
Tabernacle. R4925:3, R5815:2, R5989:5, R159:1*,
R1913:5
Provided in these perilous times with a clear knowledge of the
divine plan, with its times and seasons. R5989:5
They have entered "the holiest, by the blood of Jesus." (Heb.
10:10) R4767:6
Of the most High -- Sanctified, wholly set apart to God.
D158
Under the shadow -- Very close to the Lord, where the
wicked one cannot touch us. R4311:2, R4524:6, R4736:3,
R4925:6
Symbolized by the cloud that covered the typical Tabernacle.
R1913:4, R5989:5
Psalm 91:2
I -- David here represents Christ Jesus, addressing the

Church. R3331:5, R4925:6
Will say of the LORD -- Of Jehovah. R3331:5
He is my refuge -- Those who have the Lord for their
refuge and fortress have a superhuman care and protection.
R4487:4
Psalm 91:3
Deliver thee -- Those who abide under the protection of

the Almighty. R4925:6
Snare of the fowler -- The deceptions of Satan. R3331:6,
R4304:4, R4925:6
Satan is represented as a hunter, seeking the Lord's people as
earthly hunters are prone to hunt after speckled birds.
R5693:4
The strong arguments and deep-laid plans of error. R36:3
Noisome pestilence -- The pestilence which destroys. The
sinful propensities of the old nature, and the spiritual
pestilences of Christian Science, Spiritism and Universalism.
R3331:6, R4926:1
Psalm 91:4
He shall cover thee -- So close to his heart does Jehovah

gather his loyal and faithful children that they feel the warmth
of his love. R3331:6, R4926:1
"The Father himself loveth you." (John 16:27) "Fear not,
Little Flock, for it is the Father's good pleasure to give you the
kingdom." (Luke 12:32) "He that loveth me shall be loved of
my Father." (John 14:21) R3331:2
With his feathers -- As New Creatures, as a shield from
the enemy. R5438:4
Not only the strong, sheltering wings, but also the feathers of
the hen-mother's breast are used to protect her young.
R5438:1
Under his wings -- The picture is that of a mother hen
who, when the hawk is about, clucks for her brood, calling
them under her wings, under her special protection; the cluck
corresponding to the "Vow." R4304:2
The soft, downy feathers under the mother-hen's wings serve
to keep the little chicks warm and hide them from their
enemies. R5438:1
His truth -- That grand system of truth comprised in the
divine plan of the ages. R3332:1, R4926:1
Shield and buckler -- The whole armor of God, to enable
us to stand in the very midst of the time of trouble, no matter
how fiercely the storms of life may assail us. C228,
R3332:1, R4817:6, R707:4
Only a clear and harmonious understanding of God's Word
will enable us to withstand the powerful attacks of this time.
R36:4
Psalm 91:5
Terror by night -- The terror of the dark night of the great

time of trouble "wherein no man can work" (John 9:4) in the
dissemination of divine truth, so great will be the terror,
tumult, trouble and persecution. R3332:1, R4926:2
Nor for the arrow -- "Even bitter words" (Psa. 64:3) of
the opponents of truth. R3332:1, R4926:2, R112:3
That flieth by day -- At the present time which, in
comparison with the dark night that is coming, is called day.
R3332:1, R4926:2
Slanders and misrepresentations will be open. R2450:3
Psalm 91:6
For the pestilence -- Moral and spiritual stumbling stones--

error, Higher Criticism, unbelief, infidelity. R3332:1;
SM289:1; R5437:3, R4926:2, R844:3, R36:3
The moral pestilence of Spiritualism. R267:1, R125:2
As a pestilence, infidelity suits itself to its various
surroundings. R36:3
A pestilence spreads because people are in poor physical
condition. So it is with spiritual pestilence. Out of the heart
are the issues of life. R3826:5
When pestilence is in the air, it inoculates a person without
his being aware of the fact--likewise with spiritual pestilence.
R5815:6
Walketh in darkness -- Secretly, hidden. R2450:3
Spreading and making its victims among those in darkness,
ignorant of the truth or unfaithful to it, and therefore subject
to the strong delusions of error. R3332:1, R4926:3
For the destruction -- Caused by these pestilences.
R3332:1
Wasteth at noonday -- Subverting the faith of many just
when the light of divine truth is shining gloriously upon the
faithful, as it is today. R3332:1
Science, falsely so--called, claims to be at its very zenith, its
noontide of light and glory. R862:3
Psalm 91:7
A thousand shall fall -- Into infidelity. C241; R4926:4,

R5816:2
But not into eternal torment, nor Second Death. SM325:2;
CR115:3
God wishes some to fall. SM325:2
The cross has ever been the great stumbling stone. R5801:6,
R1644:2, R4110:4
A testing time is now upon the Church. R4304:2, R4745:3,
R4926:3, R5437:3
No overstatement of the fact. R867:6, R2817:2, R684:4;
HG317:5
Into mere social moralism. R1911:5
Because only one in a thousand of nominal Christians is
really consecrated wholly to the Lord. R1307:6
Partly caused by natural calamities, as well as social,
financial and religious convulsions. R3033:5
One of the signs of the close of the present dispensation.
R3199:1
Like Gideon's typical band, the victory is reserved for the
faithful few. R1356:6
At thy side -- The true Church's side. R5801:6
Those who were actually begotten of the holy Spirit, or who
have assumed such a position; for instance, the tares.
R4926:3, R4304:2
The only things which will stand will be those which cannot
be shaken, the true and faithful. R3053:2, R5816:5;
OV320:1
Ten thousand -- We might infer that the one thousand may
fall into total unbelief, and the ten thousand, the Great
Company, into the great time of trouble to wash their robes
white. R4926:4
So great will be the failing away from the truth, even among
those who once received it with joy. R3332:2
Into Higher Criticism, Evolution, Theosophy, Christian
Science and various other delusions. R4304:2
Including some of the most learned of our day. SM245:2
Thy right hand -- These fall because they have neglected
the necessary development of character; failed to put on the
whole armor of God. R5678:4
Not come nigh thee -- The true Church, because of their
loyalty and uncompromising faithfulness, and because of the
ample armor of truth and righteousness. R3332:2,
R4926:3, R4955:6, R4167:6; D592
Kept by the power of God through faith. R3295:5
The citadel of truth will be preserved, notwithstanding the
fall of the masses of Churchianity. R3455:3
Not one whose name is "blotted out" of the book of life (Rev.
3:5) shall stand, and not one whose name remains shall fall.
R745:2
Psalm 91:8
Only with thine eyes -- Enlightened by the spirit of truth.

R2450:3
Of the wicked -- Those who reject the truth or prove
unfaithful to it. R3332:2, R4926:4
Psalm 91:9
Thou -- The shielded ones will be those who live very near
to the Lord. R4438:6, R4379:4
Thy habitation -- The only safe retreat in the Day of
Wrath. D242; R2770:6
These shall not be moved, yet many of them will pass through
most severe trials and temptations. R5652:4
Psalm 91:10
No evil befall thee -- The New Creature. We see that no

evil befell our Lord as a New Creature. R4767:2, R4311:2
No evil of the kind referred to. Any other seeming evils shall,
under divine providence, work together for good. R3332:2,
R4926:5
That will mean divine protection to the very end of our
course. R5817:4
Some evils do befall the Great Company, to bring about the
destruction of their flesh. R4767:6
Plague come nigh -- "That wicked one toucheth him not."
(1 John 5:18) SM289:2
Psalm 91:11
For he -- Jehovah, the Heavenly Father. R5257:2

His angels -- Heavenly messengers and the Lord's earthly
children are used of him as ministers, servants, as well as
various other agencies. R4926:6, R5257:2, R3441:4,
R5815:5, R5816:6
God will raise up some faithful pastors and teachers.
R4926:5, R4927:1
Divine promises and helpful assistance of the saints. R5437:6
Charge -- The loving, protecting care of God. R5257:2
The message of Present Truth. R2647:6, R1268:2, R745:2
In the Harvest time a "charge" or counsel is given to bear up
all members of the feet class, lest they stumble. R3441:5
Divine agency and power are everywhere, and ready at any
instant to be exercised as much as need be for the
accomplishment of God's will. R4769:3
Over thee -- Concerning thee. R3332:2
The Messiah class, Head and members. R5257:2, R4545:1
To keep thee -- The Lord, our Shepherd, will care for the
true sheep. Nothing can harm these, except as the Heavenly
Father sees that earthly injury would prove profitable.
R4926:6 , R3332:4, R4545:1
In all thy ways -- In all the affairs of the Church, at all
times, including the Dark Ages. R5257:5
Psalm 91:12
They -- Doubtless the heavenly messengers are connected

with this work, yet it is done through the Church in the flesh.
R4927:1, R3441:4
Human agents. R844:6, R1480:4*
Shall bear thee up -- All the members of the Body of
Christ, individually and collectively. R3332:4, R4927:1
By helping them to a clear understanding of the truth and
encouraging them to be faithful to it. R3332:4, R4927:1,
R4545:1, R5437:6, R2567:5
To a higher plane of devotion and appreciation of divine love.
R5105:1, R4674:5
In their hands -- Upheld with the right hand of his
righteousness, the power of his truth. R1307:6
Dash thy foot -- Symbolic of the last members of the Body
of Christ. R3332:4, R4927:1, R5257:6, R5437:6, R681:6,
R3719:1, R3298:5, R2244:2, R1688:6, R757:6, R288:1;
B157
After a description of the evil day which this "feet" class shall
experience, special provision for the help and support of the
"feet" is promised. R844:3
It is in this day that we are living that the "feet" are in special
danger of stumbling. R3668:6
Against a stone -- Only the sanctified in Christ Jesus, the
"feet" class, will be kept from stumbling. R844:3, R2647:6
Stumbling-stones of false doctrines, especially the errors
regarding the great fundamental doctrine of redemption
through the blood of Christ, and our Lord's presence.
R4927:1, R5817:1, R3332:4, R4110:4
Lest some overwhelming trial should prove too much for
them. R1801:6
Psalm 91:13
The lion and adder -- Every device of Satan, whether

boisterous as a lion or stealthy as a serpent. R3332:5,
R4927:4
Psalm 91:14
His love -- The love and loyalty of each member of the

"feet" class. R4927:4
Upon me -- Saith Jehovah. R3332:5
Deliver him -- The Heavenly Father will deliver him (the
"feet" class) from the pestilence, etc. R3332:5, R4927:4
Set him on high -- As joint-heir with Christ, a partaker of
the divine nature. R3332:5, R4927:4
He hath known -- Hath appreciated. R3332:5, R4927:4
Psalm 91:15
He shall call -- This Psalm applies especially to Jesus and

the Church. R5757:3,5
I will be with him -- Whether standing alone or in
company with others. R4927:5
In trouble -- The Lord may not prevent or deliver us from
trouble if his wisdom sees best for us to have it. R5758:4
I will deliver him -- There are deliverances at present
according to our needs. R5758:5
Final deliverance in the resurrection. R5758:5
Honour him -- Not the kind the world now appreciates,
but which in the end it will. R5758:5
Psalm 91:16
With long life -- Eternal life. R3332:5

My salvation -- Make him understand my plan. R3332:5,
R4927:5
Psalm 92
Psalm 92:10
But my horn -- Horns are symbols of power. T42

With fresh oil -- Type of the holy Spirit. T116
Psalm 92:12
The righteous -- And they only. C371

Shall flourish -- In the Millennial age, in Christ's
Kingdom. C371; R492:6
Like a cedar -- Symbol of everlasting human life. T109
Psalm 93
Psalm 93:1
The world also -- The new, perfect conditions of the

Cannot be moved -- Thus, in the change of dispensations,
there is little or no change of the earth or heavens, but simply
a great destruction of life. HG11:4
Psalm 93:4
Waves of the sea -- Restless masses of mankind. A318

Psalm 94
Psalm 94:3
How long -- After the Lord has chosen his jewels, "then
shall he return and discern between the righteous and the
wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth
him not." (Mal. 3:18) R1653:6
Psalm 94:9
He -- Shall we not consider God as infinitely superior to

the very highest of our human ideals? OV3:2
Shall he not see? -- We can also say that he who knew
how to make the tongue knew what words to select for his
message to men. R52:2
He that gave humans the sense of justice and the power of
sympathy, compassion and love--shall we not consider him as
infinitely superior to our highest ideals? SM625:1
Psalm 94:13
Days of adversity -- Rendered "evil" in "I create evil."

(Isa 45:7) A125
Psalm 95
Psalm 95:1
A joyful noise -- All who have heart sentiments of

thankfulness and gratitude should be encouraged to make a
joyful noise unto the Lord, without trained choirs being
necessary. R2511:5
Psalm 95:3
For the LORD -- Jehovah. E67

Is a great God -- El, mighty one. E67
Above all gods -- Elohim, mighty ones. E67
Psalm 95:8
In the provocation -- While passing through the

wilderness, the children of Israel aroused his indignation
repeatedly. R5125:1
As in the day -- Forty years, not 24 hours. B47; F19;
PD3/8; HG583:4
Psalm 95:10
Forty years long -- Typifying the 19 centuries of the

period of Jewish disfavor. R3079:3
Psalm 96
Psalm 96:1
O sing unto the LORD -- The judgment day, instead of

being a time of terror, distress and sorrow, is represented in
the Scriptures as being a special time of joy and gladness for
the world. Q853:4; HG273:5
Psalm 96:4
Above all gods -- Elohim, mighty ones--a name applied to

Jehovah. E68
Psalm 96:5
Are idols -- Septuagint: demons. So Romish nations stand

under demoniacal tutelage, just as did the Gentiles of old.
R1991:5
Psalm 96:9
Worship the LORD -- The worship of the one true God is

elevating and ennobling, and calculated to develop in us the
moral likeness of God. R1836:1
Beauty of holiness -- In the spirit of the truth. R1836:1
Psalm 96:10
Among the heathen -- It is the privilege of the saints to tell

the glad tidings to all who will hear. R5989:2
The LORD reigneth -- Blessing not only the living, but
also those who have fallen asleep in death. R5706:4
Judge the people -- The saints are to be judges with
Christ. R5776:2
Psalm 96:11
Heavens ... earth -- Not only the saints, but the whole
earth. R5989:2
Psalm 96:12
Field be joyful -- Prefigured by the High Priest, when he

lifted up his hands and blessed the people. R1248:4
"The whole earth is at rest and is quiet; they break forth into
singing." (Isa. 14:7) R1248:5
Trees of the wood -- "The trees of the field (the people)
shall clap their hands." (Isa. 55:12) R1024:4
Psalm 96:13
For he cometh-When he appears, day appears, life

appears, fruitfulness appears; the curse departs; difficulties,
wars, troubles, sorrows vanish; it is the world's Jubilee.
R302:3*
He who so loved us as to give his life for our ransom comes
again to reign. R1352:2
To judge the world -- The object of the second coming of
Christ is to bless all the families of the earth. HG315:4
Rewarding with restored perfection the willing and worthy,
and cutting off from life forever all wilful sinners. R1073:4
With righteousness -- Swift and unerring justice. D519
Psalm 97
Psalm 97:1
The LORD reigneth -- Having special reference to the

period from 1878 down to the full inauguration of his
Kingdom, when his glorious reign will be clearly recognized.
R5989:1
Typically, over Israel. R1887:5, R1996:6
The fulfilment of every foretold sign of his presence bears
witness to this fact. R814:6
Let the earth rejoice -- It is great cause for rejoicing if
they can only have the faith to realize it. R816:4
Psalm 97:2
Clouds and darkness -- Storm clouds and the darkness of

gloom, perplexity and trouble. R1913:1, R5989:1
Therefore men cannot see the blessings beyond, since they
walk only by sight and not by faith. R815:1
The morning without clouds is that of the perfect age beyond
the reign of Christ. The Millennial morning will be especially
cloudy. R1073:5
And judgment -- Justice, represented by the slab of the
Mercy Seat, above which the glory of the Lord appeared in
the Most Holy. T124
It is this judgment of the nations, manifesting all
unrighteousness, that is causing the clouds and darkness.
R1913:1, R5989:1
This trouble is a necessary preparation for the glorious reign,
which is an abundant cause for rejoicing. R5989:2
Justice is the foundation of God's government, and his love
could not operate in violation of his justice. R1286:3
The basic principle of God's character. R2120:5
Are the habitation -- The establishment. R35:4*, R269:6
The foundation; otherwise his creation would become filled
with imperfect beings. E472
Also the foundation of our present and future security.
Without the justice of God, we would have no assurance
that his gracious promises would ever be fulfilled. R3656:2
The just sentence against Adam would have stood forever had
no acceptable substitute been found. E421, E422
See comments on Psa. 89:14
Psalm 97:3
A fire -- Wisely directed by the High and Holy One.

R1913:1, R5989:2
Increased knowledge, like a pendulum, will swing to the
opposite extreme of impropriety, bringing great trouble and
anarchy. R815:5
Burneth up -- Cut off, destroyed, devoured with "the fire
of his jealousy." (Zeph. 3:8) R1913:1, R5989:2
His enemies -- All opposers of his righteous course.
R1913:1, R5989:2
Of God and man, the oppressive organizations of both church
and state, thereby liberating the people. R815:5
Psalm 97:4
Lightnings -- Diffusions of knowledge. R511:2

Not the brilliancy of the "Brain Age." A171
A flash of lightning from the obscured throne discloses here
one error, and there another, with remarkable glimpses of
the great principles of truth and righteousness. R1913:2,
R5989:3
Principles of the Word of God brought to the front and
discussed in the news media and at public gatherings.
R5989:4
In contrast with which the world's present disorder is so
manifest. R1913:2, R5989:3
The increase of knowledge, general diffusion of education,
multiplying of inventions, general interchange of thought,
wider range of commercial interests, rapid modes and cheap
rates of travel, multiplicity of books and periodicals,
wonderful power of the daily press. R815:5
Enlightened the world -- In the day of his preparation for
the blessing of mankind. A171
Continually calling attention to the Word of God, the golden
rule, the equal rights and privileges of human brotherhood.
R1913:3, R5989:3
Revealing corruption and dishonesty, in high places.
R5989:4
Flashes of ight and knowledge manifest his presence and
more and more disclose to the world his power, glory and
reign. R153:5
The earth -- The present organization of society. A323;
C229; D46
Saw -- Worldly men are drawing attention to the
prophecies of Scriptures. R5989:3
And trembled -- For fear and insecurity. C229
Not knowing what the outcome will be, but dreading the
worst. R1913:3, R5989:3
Knowing that the present war of words must sometime come
to blows--and is now beginning to do so. R1913:4, R5989:5
Popular thought is set in a revolutionary direction. R5989:4
The first flashes bring terror and dismay to the world,
disclosing the gigantic proportions of evil and oppression.
R547:4
"The earth shall reel to and fro like a drunkard." (Isa. 24:20)
R1913:4
As Israel did at Mt. Sinai. R5990:2, R1914:2
Psalm 97:5
The hills -- The less high, less autocratic, governments.

D551; R5575:4
Melted like wax -- Retain their form, but as the earth
(society) gets hot, they come down little by little, to the level
of popular demand. D551
Some melt under fervent heat, while others will be carried
forcibly into the midst of the sea. (Psa. 46:2) R815:6,
R511:4
The result of the "shout" and the "trumpet" of 1 Thes. 4:16,
and of "Michael standing up" in Dan 12:1. R668:1
Great Britain is an example. If all governments would fully
concede to the people their rights (melt), much of the great
calamity of revolution would be averted. R815:6
Russia, on the other hand, conceding nothing to the people,
shall be forcibly carried by the tumult of revolution "into the
midst of the sea." R816:1
Illustrated by the decree of the Czar of Russia (1903)
providing for freedom of religion and establishing some
degree of local self-government. R3177:6
Psalm 97:6
The heavens -- The new heavens of the Millennial age.

A323
Heavenly rulers, the saints. R493:5*, R270:1, R35:4*
Psalm 97:7
Confounded -- Put to shame and confusion; their idols

destroyed. R5990:1
Graven images -- Human philosophies and science falsely
so-called. R1913:6, R5990:1
Idols -- Which their wayward hearts have set up instead of
God. R5990:1
Those who are worshiping mammon, stocks and bonds,
houses and money, will be ashamed of riches that they cannot
account for along lines of the golden rule. SM595:3
All ye gods -- "Let all the angels of God worship him."
(Heb. 1:6) E72
Psalm 97:8
Zion heard -- The true Church heard. D158

Not all who claim to be of Zion, for the great nominal church
turns away, saying, "Where is the promise of thy presence?
for since the fathers fell asleep all things continue as they
were from the beginning." (2 Pet. 3:4) R814:6
And was glad -- Psalms 91 and 46 show why the saints
rejoice and are restful of heart while others weep and lament.
R1913:4, R5989:5; D158
It is the sinners in Zion that are afraid. (Isa. 33:14) R5989:5
Daughters of Judah -- Fleshly Israel, whose blindness
shall be taken away. R816:4
Psalm 97:10
Hand of the wicked -- Some power is in Satan's, hand, but

with limitations. R2180:1
Psalm 97:11
Light -- Truth. A20

For the righteous -- The truth is only intended for God's
consecrated people. Q719:7; R1305:5, R652:1; HG745:6
It is a mistake to suppose that those without faith, and
consequent justification, should be able to apprehend clearly
the truth. It is not for such. A20
"The path of the just is as a shining light." (Prov. 4:18) A20
Righteous at heart, as Saul of Tarsus. R1444:2
Justified, reckoned righteous in God's sight. R945:6
Who faithfully and thankfully receive and disseminate it.
R3648:2
If any of the wicked gains a partial knowledge of the truth, we
may be sure he will lose it. R2823:6
Those who have been blessed with light and have made no
use of it, have not been privileged to retain it. R946:2
To the extent that men observe the principles of
righteousness, they are correspondingly favored with truth
and its attendant blessings. R945:3
Sown, through the prophets, for the righteous some centuries
down the stream of time. R946:1
Sown centuries ago, but now being most gloriously revealed
to those for whom it was sown. R947:4
Gladness -- Which comes from a realization of the truth.
R3648:2
Psalm 98
Psalm 98:T
A Psalm -- Written by inspiration for the dedication of the

Temple. R4297:1
Psalm 98:1
His holy arm -- Jesus, the power of Jehovah. E47;

R4792:6
To no human generalship can the honors of the coming
victory for truth and righteousness be ascribed, but to the
King of kings and Lord of lords. D19
Psalm 98:4
Make a joyful noise -- All who have heart sentiments of

thankfulness and gratitude should be encouraged to make a
joyful noise unto the Lord, without trained choirs being
necessary. R2511:5
All the earth -- The work of judgment is a great cause for
rejoicing, not only among the saints, but in the whole earth.
R5989:2
Psalm 98:7
The world -- The face of nature reassumes the smile of

unfallen times. It is earth's festival, the world's Jubilee.
R302:3*
Psalm 98:9
For he cometh -- See comments on Psa. 96:13

To judge the earth -- A period of glory and blessing, not
dread. OV255:1, OV311:1; A142, A143
Cannot begin until the great Judge takes his seat and
authority. R5443:5
The saints are to be judges with Christ. R5776:2, R569:4
Judge the world -- By the Messenger of the Covenant,
now present. R5442:3
After the Day of Wrath. R5442:4
The love of God brings judgment to the world. R5442:1
All hopes of eternal life are based on this trial. R5442:2
All who prefer sin will be destroyed in Second Death.
R5442:3
Psalm 99
Psalm 99:1
The LORD reigneth -- This Psalm was apparently written

by inspiration, on the occasion of the dedication of the
Temple. R4297:2
a foundation of justice, represented by the Mercy Seat. T125
Let the earth -- The present organization of society.
A323; C229; D46
Psalm 99:4
In Jacob -- To natural Israel. A300
Psalm 99:5
At his footstool -- The earth re-established under God's

dominion. D649
Psalm 99:9
At his holy hill -- The earthly phase of the Kingdom of

God. A301
Psalm 100
Psalm 100:4
Enter -- Only applicable to the priestly class. R3054:5

Into his gates -- The Holy and Most Holy conditions.
R3054:1
Psalm 101
Psalm 101:5
Him will I cut off -- The Second Death, the final sentence
of those failing the individual trial of the Millennial age, will
never be destroyed. R2609:6
Psalm 101:8
Destroy all the wicked -- All evildoers and corrupters of

earth will be destroyed. R4999:1, R894:5; SM230:2
The Second Death will never be destroyed. R2609:6
Psalm 102
Psalm 102:13
Time to favour -- A large proportion of the promised

coming blessings belong to natural Israel; all should not be
spiritualized. OV108:2
Set time -- Fixed and unalterable. SM479:2
At the end of the Gentile lease of power, God's provision for
Israel to represent his kingdom in the world returns. SM477:1
Psalm 102:14
For thy servants -- "For thy servants hold dear her stones,
and her very dust they cherish." (Leeser) CRI35:5
Psalm 102:16
Shall build up Zion -- Restore the natural city of

Jerusalem and complete the construction of the New
Jerusalem, the Church. R56:2*
Implying a process, including the restoration in all its parts;
true both of earthly Jerusalem and the Gospel Church.
R56:6*, R58:3*
Appear in his glory -- "When Christ who is our life shall
appear then shall we also appear with him in glory." (Col
3:4) R56:2*
Psalm 102:19
Behold the earth -- In his sympathy, God beheld our

sorrow. R4963:5
If God so loved these, if Christ died for them as well as us,
why should we not be very sympathetic with them? R3933:4
After the saints have all gone to be with the Lord. R60:5*
Psalm 102:20
Hear -- Figuratively. R4963:5

Describing, not an impersonal Creator, but a personal one--
one who feels, thinks and exercises his power. SM623:1
Groaning -- The suffering of humanity under the death
penalty and the incidental aches and pains of our fallen
condition. R5032:1, R4963:5; SM610:2
The prisoner -- Prisoners of sin; captives in the prison
house of death. Q159:T, A112; R4963:5
To loose those -- He did more than look and pity. His
right arm of divine power in due time began to bring
deliverance to the captives of sin and death. R5032:1
Psalm 102:23
Weakened my strength -- Christ's strength. R449:1

Here the speaker changes from Jehovah to Jesus, speaking at
the time of his crucifixion. R449:1
Psalm 102:24
Midst of my days -- Prophetic of the painful circumstances

of Jesus' death. R1205:2
Thy years -- Jehovah's answer to Jesus prayer. R449:4
Psalm 102:25
Of old -- In the creation of our first parents. R1814:1

Of the earth -- The present social order. R1814:1,
R3154:6
Originally, Adam was king, with dominion over the beasts,
fowls and fish. R4222:6
The physical earth--referring to changes taking place as to
earthly conditions; also used as the basis for a symbol,
indicating the transformation of the present social order into
one more acceptable to God. R3154:6
And the heavens -- Powers of spiritual control. R3154:6
Originally, the spiritual heavens recognized the supremacy of
the Almighty and that his will must be law for mankind.
R4222:6
The spiritual or superior rule of the angels, which was
connected with the epoch that preceded the flood. R4222:3
Psalm 102:26
Be changed -- Rearranged, made over, made new.

R3154:6
One such change took place at the flood. We anticipate
another in the near future, making the earth more fit than at
present for the Millennium. R3154:6
Already changed twice, until today we have what is known as
"This Present Evil World." (Gal. 1:4) R4222:6
They need changing, not because of any imperfection of the
divine arrangement, but because it was departed from through
sin, disobedience and death. R4222:6
Psalm 102:28
Children of thy servants -- The best provision which

parents can make for their children is to give them, by precept
and example, instruction in righteousness. R1963:5
Shall continue -- "Seek meekness, seek righteousness. It
may be that ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord's anger."
(Zeph. 2:3) R1963:6
Psalm 103
Psalm 103:2
O my soul -- The appeal is not merely to the lips, but to

the entire being. R2551:2
Forget not -- One of the least expensive, but most highly
appreciated, offerings we can present to God is thanksgiving
for mercies past and present. R2551:2
He that is conscious of being forgiven much loveth much;
hence the danger of forgetting it and of falling into the idea
that every one must suffer the full penalty for his own sins.
R137:4*
Psalm 103:3
Who forgiveth -- It is the new mind that recognizes his

healing, his forgiveness, his reconciliation to God. R4981:4
They who hide their sins from themselves and think to hide
them from the Lord greatly err, and will make no progress.
R5234:4
Not generalizing, but particularizing. Properly, the first item
of praise is redeeming love through Christ's sacrifice.
R1402:3
The Church's sins are only "covered" now, but wait to be
"blotted out ." R2028:3
The work of Christ for the Church, of blotting out sins and
healing all diseases, will not be complete until the Millennial
morning. R2028:3
Who heareth -- God is prepared to heal us spiritually
when we come into the proper attitude of heart and go to the
heavenly throne of grace. F145
By heeding your fervent prayers for restoration of favor after
you have amended the wrong as far as possible. F144, F649
With spiritual healings. R5234:4
Those who receive physical healing by "gifts" or "prayers"
have never yet been completely healed. At most they receive
a temporary blessing. R2028:3
Those resurrected will be without any of their present mental,
moral, or physical diseases or weaknesses. R1402:6
All thy diseases -- Applicable physically to the Israelites
under the Law covenant and spiritually to the Church, the
New Creation. R4979:6, R4981:4
New Creatures have such experiences. F649
Soul disease, due to the Lord's hiding his face because of our
neglect of consecration vows. F144, F145
Certainly not physical diseases; the Lord's bloody sweat, the
bursting of his heart, and Paul's thorn in the flesh prove the
contrary. F649; R5234:4
Psalm 103:4
Who redeemeth -- Gaal, sets free by payment. E438

The original sentence to destruction is now offset by the
ransom. HG333:5
Thy life -- Soul, being, not the body. OV166:2, R5017:2
It is the soul that is doomed to destruction not the body. The
body changes every seven years anyway. HG204:5
From destruction -- "Thou turnest man to destruction."
(Psa. 90:3) E353
It would have been destruction--death as that of the brute
beast--except for the fact that Christ paid our penalty.
HG195:2; R803:3
Not from torment. HG197:1
Psalm 103:6
That are oppressed -- The weak and oppressed of the

world. R1402:6
He makes their cause his cause. R1402:6
Psalm 103:7
His ways unto Moses -- His care for the interest of the
weak in the laws which he promulgated through Moses.
R1402:6
Psalm 103:8
LORD is merciful -- Especially towards spiritual Israel.

R5818:1
Toward the world, in its release from the bondage of sin and
death to full liberty of sons of God. R5818:4
Plenteous In mercy -- Making provision for the passing
over, covering, and ultimate blotting out of our weaknesses.
R3425:5
Except for his mercy and love, God would have been fully
justified in canceling our covenant long ago. R4056:1
If we would appreciate his mercy through Christ, we should
similarly exercise mercy toward others. R4056:4
His grace, while limited first to one earthly nation, then later
to an elect company from all nations, is finally to be extended
to every human being the world around. R5818:4
Psalm 103:9
Not always chide -- Contend with the wayward. R1402:6

Reprove. R1272:3
Neither will he keep -- Hold back, retain; a time of
retribution shall come. R3947:2, R1402:6
"The Lord is not slack, as men count slackness." (2 Pet 3:9)
R1272:3, R1781:1
His anger -- Righteous indignation against wilful sin and
sinners. R1772:2
Psalm 103:10
After our sins -- According to the just desert of our sins.

R1402:6
To our iniquities -- As they deserved under his righteous
law. R1402:6
Psalm 103:11
Great is his mercy -- We cannot come too often, then, to

the throne of heavenly grace. R1865:3
Them that fear him -- And love him. R1403:1
Psalm 103:12
Our transgressions -- The transgressions of those who

love and fear God. R1403:1, R5427:2
Full and complete forgiveness to those who are truly
repentant and desire to draw near to God through Christ.
Q832:4
Psalm 103:13
Like as a father -- "I will receive you and be a father unto

you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord
Almighty." (2 Cor. 6:17, 18) R5739:5
Illustrated by anecdote. . . "If God cares for you as I do..."
R.3808:1
His children -- The first step is to come into harmony with
God and become his child. SM682:T
Those who come in childlike faith and obedience to God he
calls his "little ones." R657:1*
LORD pitieth -- Gives sympathy to. R1585:4
He invites us to confide in him as children and speak to him
freely of all that concerns us. R3161:4
Them that fear him -- Reverence him. R2083:5
Perfect love casts out slavish, but not reverential, fear.
R2289:4-6, R2986:6
Psalm 103:14
Knoweth our frame -- He knows that we are fallen--imperfect

mentally, morally, physically. R5101:3, R5585:6
He has compassion on us. The fact that we are weak and
lame does not separate us from his love and power, for he has
covered us with the imputed righteousness of Christ.
R4818:1, R5803:2; Q655:T
In our trials, the Lord permits us to be taken out of the fire for
a little while so that they will not be too severe. R5778:6
It is not his purpose that we shall always be in conflict with
ourselves--perfect will against imperfect body; but he has
provided for perfect resurrection bodies in accord with our
new minds. R4897:6
Graciously giving us time to run the race and develop
character. F372
Therefore arranging that we have little seasons of refreshment
between times of trial. R5779:1
That we are dust -- That we cannot do what we would
like to do. R5437:4
God invites our confidence in the smallest affairs of life.
R3161:4
And so has compassion on the sons of his love, and is very
pitiful and of tender mercy. R4818:1
Our testing is not to see whether we are perfect according to
the flesh. R5115:1
Psalm 103:17
Them that fear him -- Lack of reverence for God was the
cause of the fall of Eve, Adam, Satan; the cause of calamities
upon Lot, Ishmael and Esau. It was reverence for the Lord
that brought blessings to Noah, Abraham and Isaac. R2872:3
Psalm 103:19
His throne -- Power, dominion, control. R1815:2

His kingdom ruleth -- The Kingdom for which we pray.
R1403:4
Psalm 103:22
In all places -- After the end of the Millennium. R1403:4
Psalm 104
Psalm 104:3
Clouds his chariot -- "Behold, he cometh with clouds."

(Rev 1:7) R153:3
Psalm 104:4
Maketh his angels -- "Who maketh the winds his angels

and flaming fire his servants." R2382:2
God is as able to use winds or waves, lightnings or
sandstorms, or pestilence, as any other agency in the
execution of his will. R2382:2
Spirits -- Spirit beings. R5043:1; Q838:4
His ministers -- God can use anybody or anything as his
agency, his messenger. R5815:3
A flaming fire -- Spirit beings can appear as a flame of
fire, as in the burning bush. (Exo. 3:2) HG28:4
Psalm 104:5
Of the earth -- The new, perfect, conditions of human

society. R1814:1
For ever -- Not to be burned up, but to "abide forever."
(Eccl. 1:4) R6013:5
The same physical earth remains, and is the scene of great
revolutionary changes, justifying the use of the symbols of a
new heaven and a new earth. R1615:4
Psalm 104:13
Earth is satisfied -- Not envious of the Gospel Church and

its reward. R613:2
Psalm 104:20
Beasts -- Wild beasts; not man-eating Negroes, as some

claim. R3044:5
Psalm 104:34
My meditation -- Only in pondering the Word of the Lord

can we receive its nourishment. A hasty reading of the
Scriptures makes a spiritual dyspeptic. R1390:3
Psalm 105
Psalm 105:8
Covenant for ever -- Both the Abrahamic covenant

(spoken of here) and the New covenant are scripturally styled
"The Everlasting covenant, " in contrast with the Law
covenant, which passed away. R4321:2
The one covenant is perpetual in the other, even as the
spiritual seed shall rule and bless through the earthly.
R4321:2
Psalm 105:9
Which covenant -- The promise of the land was the

covenant. HG44:1
His oath -- Confirmation of the participation of Isaac and
Jacob in the great promise that God made to Abraham.
OV73:2
Psalm 105:15
Touch not mine anointed -- An assault on one of these

would be an attack on the Almighty's arrangements. R5673:2
Though King Saul was the Lord's anointed, we are not to
think of the kings of today as the Lord's anointed. They are
their own anointed. Their kingdoms are kingdoms of this
world. R5673:2
We shall not be injured as New Creatures, no matter what the
Lord may permit to come against us according to the flesh.
R4219:2
My prophets -- Ministers. R4219:2
No harm -- Injure your real, highest, interests. R4219:2
Psalm 105:18
Hurt with fetters -- With a clear conscience, and a sense

of the divine approval, Joseph determined to make the best of
that situation also. R1640:2
For very shame's sake, we should strive at least to come up to
the standard of Joseph. R3973:4
Egyptian prisons were terrible places, with the prisoners
horribly mistreated. R2886:2, R3973:3
He -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being. E334
Psalm 105:24
Increased his people -- Israel's increase was a miracle.

HG362:3
Psalm 105:25
Turned their heart -- Injustice inequity iniquity got such a

hold upon them. R5271:2
To deal subtilly -- The practice of injustice injures both
parties the afflicter as seriously as the afflicted. R5271:1
Psalm 105:26
Moses his servant -- Who stood in the position of a father

to the whole nation. R1725:3
Who acted representatively in bringing the Jews under the
Law covenant, as Christ acted representatively in removing it.
R1725:4
Thus, as God's representative on the one hand, and Israel's on
the other, Moses could be the Mediator of the Law covenant
between God and that nation. R5046:6
Psalm 105:27
Shewed his signs -- The plagues were doubtless a full

compensation of justice upon them, equivalent to the injuries
which they had practiced. R5271:3
And wonders -- The Egyptian plagues were miraculous
from one viewpoint; not so from another. R5271:3
Psalm 105:28
He sent darkness -- Perhaps produced by the dust in the

air. R5272:5
Pharaoh considered the sun god of the Egyptians as the
powerful one. R5271:5
Psalm 105:29
Waters into blood -- Possibly produced by some micro-organisms

in the water, the miracle being the ability of Moses
and Aaron to effect the change at their command, and to abate
it. R5271:6
Psalm 105:30
Brought forth frogs -- Which Pharaoh's magicians were

unable to remove. R5272:1
Psalm 105:31
Divers sorts of flies -- Gnats, mosquitoes, house flies and

cattle flies. R5272:2
And lice -- Dust ticks, probably breeding on the decaying
heaps of frogs. R5272:2
In all their coasts -- The miracle consisting in producing
these ticks in unusual numbers--not merely in the desert
wilds, but throughout Egypt. R5272:2
Psalm 105:32
Hail for rain -- A cyclone. R5272:4
Psalm 105:34
Without number -- Immense swarms of locusts that have

come upon Egypt from Nubia have covered the ground for
miles--sometimes to a depth of 15 inches. R5272:5
Psalm 105:35
Eat up all the herbs -- Locusts are apt to eat everything

that is green before they fly away. R5272:5
Psalm 105:36
Smote also -- The penalty was not so much in the death as

in the suddenness of it. R5272:6
Psalm 106
Psalm 106:1
His mercy -- Which sent his Son to be our Redeemer.

R5427:3
The wrath of God is always just and tempered with mercy.
HG319:5; R5427:3; R2613:2
Endureth for ever -- To a full completeness. R5427:3
Psalm 106:12
They sang his praise -- In the song of Moses recorded in

Exo. 15:1-20. R3998:6
Psalm 106: 23
Stood before him -- God dealt with only one man in

connection with the making of the Law covenant--Moses.
R1725:6
In the breach -- See comments on Psa. 105:26.
Psalm 106:35
Learned their works -- Grecian philosophy, including the

doctrine of the immortality of the soul. R5910:3
Psalm 106:36
Served their idols -- Sought after wizards, necromancers--

mediums of the fallen spirits. R5910:2
Psalm 106:48
From everlasting -- From all eternity; without any

beginning. E86
Psalm 107
Psalm 107:1
O give thanks -- This Psalm was probably written on the

occasion of the dedication of the Temple. R4297:1
Psalm 107:10
Sit in darkness -- Failing to search the Scriptures that they

may know the will and counsel of God. R2240:6
Bound in affliction -- Our first parents--driven out of the
Garden of Eden because of disobedience. SM156:3
Psalm 107:11
The words of God -- The Scriptures--by not putting them

into practice. R2241:1
Psalm 107:12
Brought down -- Penalty for disobedience. (See Psa.

107:10) SM157:1
With labour -- The sentence, that man should earn his
bread by the sweat of his face, was designed of the Lord to be
a blessing. SM157:1
Psalm 107:13
Then they cried -- Before being used of the Lord and

prepared for further great things at his hand, Israel needed to
learn dependence upon him. R3983:5
As the Lord taught us to pray, "Abandon us not in temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one." (Matt. 6:13) R3983:6
In their trouble -- Present distresses and tribulations are
all working out for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight
of glory, if we are rightly exercised thereby. R3983:6
Psalm 107:19
They cry -- Such a cry implies that the sins and

weaknesses of the flesh were contrary to the transgressor's
will. All such who cry unto the Lord in sincerity and
faith shall be heard. R3103:4
Psalm 107:26
They go down again -- Stormy troubles of the sea--a

graphic description of some of our trials and difficulties.
SM745:1
Trouble -- Rendered "evil" in "I create evil." (Isa. 45:7)
A125
Psalm 107:27
Reel to and fro -- "The earth shall reel to and fro like a
drunkard" (Isa. 24:20) as the judgments of the Lord fall
heavily on the wayward and disobedient. R5989:5
Vainly endeavoring to right itself, maintain a footing and
re-establish itself. D551
Psalm 107:28
Cry unto the LORD -- When the world is frenzied with

fear and despair. They will see then that unless the Lord
helps them, all is lost. OV420:2
Out of their distresses -- A picture of how the Kingdom
of Christ will be inaugurated. OV420:2
Psalm 107:29
The storm -- Mankind is experiencing a mighty whirlwind

on the social sea; selfishness is always stirring up a storm on
every possible occasion. God permits this so humanity will
learn to appreciate our great Savior. R5695:6,3, R5696:1
How suddenly the Adversary may at times bring against us a
whirlwind of temptation or of opposition or of persecution.
R3324:6
The storms may seem to come from the world, but really
beyond the world is the Adversary. R3325:4, R5239:2
These storms may be right inside our own person--storms of
anger, passion, or resentment. R5239:4
Those who do not have storms, trials, and difficulties lack
proof that they are God's children. (Heb. 12:7, 8) R5239:2
The 6000 years of sin and death have been one continuous
storm with occasional brief lulls. R5239:5
This trouble and the glory to follow are the theme of all the
holy prophets. R5696:3
The difficulties of life have been valuable to the Church.
R5695:6
A calm -- The storms of life may go on, but the Lord
speaks peace to us. R5696:1
In due time, Christ will bid all storms to cease. R5695:3
In a storm at sea, the voyager feels his own littleness and
realized no human arm can calm that storm; but our Heavenly
Father can calm the storms of trouble. R5239:1
By the storms and sunshine of life, the Lord is bringing us to
the desired haven. SM745:1
The great rest for mankind from the evil one for a thousand
years. R3325:4
Illustrated by the miracle of Jesus' calming the sea. R3324:1
Psalm 107:30
Desired haven -- Beyond the veil--the New Jerusalem.

SM743:1
To that condition of heart and character which he can approve
as worthy of life eternal. SM746:T
Psalm 107:39
Affliction -- Rendered "evil" in "I create evil." (Isa. 45:7)

A125
Psalm 107:43
Shall understand -- And that constitutes authority to

teach. F295
Have confidence in the Lord and in his times and seasons.
R5697:1
It is ours to know the outcome. R5696:1
Psalm 108
Psalm 108:9
Moab is my washpot -- Cleansing Israel from their

defilement and bringing them back to God. R4199:5
Psalm 109
Psalm 109:2
Opened against me -- Prophetic of the painful

circumstances of Jesus' death. R1205:2
Psalm 109:7
Be condemned -- Upon Judas alone, of all who had to do

with his death, our Lord placed the full responsibility.
R1962:5, R4909:3
Psalm 109:8
Let another -- The Apostle Paul. Q521:2; R5002:3,

R5408:6, R5940:4
Take his office -- Judas' office. Q521:2; R5002:3,
R5408:6, R5940:4
Prophetic announcement of a successor to Judas, to teach that
the appointment of his successor was exceptional and not the
rule. R5002:3
Psalm 110
Psalm 110:1

Said unto my Lord -- Adon, Jesus. E49
Showing a distinction of persons between Jehovah and Jesus.
R296:3, R2757:5, R1410:6
Jesus does not become David's Lord until he becomes David's
father--when he gives him life in the Millennial age. R809:6
He became David's offspring in Bethlehem; he became
David's Lord and root at his resurrection, through virtue of his
death. R810:1
"To this end Christ both died and revived, that he might be
Lord, both of the dead and living." (Rom. 14:9) R810:1
To be Lord of the dead implies the right, authority and power
to give them life. R810:2
At my right hand -- The place of chief favor, next to the
Father himself. CR457:2; A92
Until -- He is waiting until his glorious Kingdom shall be
inaugurated for the blessing of all the families of the earth.
SM679:1
Psalm 110:2
Shall send the rod -- Scepter, authority. R2935:2

Out of Zion -- The heavenly phase of the Kingdom. A295;
T33; R5574:4
Rule thou -- The Church. This is not in any measure
fulfilled yet. R2935:2
Of thine enemies -- Who even until now continue to take
the kingdom by force and to use violence against the members
of the Lord's Body. R2935:2
Psalm 110:3
Thy people -- The Jews first, and then those who shall
become Israelites (people of God) during the Millennial age.
D632, D654; R2935:4
Shall be willing -- Having learned the dreadful lesson of
the exceeding sinfulness of sin. R35:2*, R269:2
This cannot refer to the Church; they are willing now.
R2935:3
To hearken to the voice of the Lord through those whom he
will appoint. R5646:5
In the day -- The Millennial day. R2935:4
Of thy power -- When Satan is bound; when Messiah
takes his great power and reigns. R2935:3, R5646:5
Womb of the morning -- Jesus was the only direct
creation of Jehovah. R1060:4
The saints of God, coming forth from their invisible abodes in
the morning of joy, shall refresh the world with their
benignant influences. R303:1*
As morning after morning comes forth fresh and vigorous,
and as the sun retains its youth and energy. R2935:5
Dew of thy youth -- Freshness, vigor, in the re-creation.
E92
Manifested in the original creation. E92
Jesus' power displayed in restoring and perfecting all things
will at least equal his power as Jehovah's agent in creating
them. R446:4,* R1060:2
Psalm 110:4

Hath sworn -- By divine oath to the antitypical
Melchizedek, more emphatic than in respect to the Aaronic
priesthood. SM141:1
Thou -- Christ. T30; R4877:2
Here, too, the Body of Christ is no longer shown as separate
individuals, but as one complete. R3952:4, R714:4
Art a priest -- A Mediator, whose mission is to restore
fallen beings to perfection and harmony with God. R3951:2,
R713:2
Must be called of God. R5472:2
For ever -- Melchizedec was without beginning of days or
end of years in respect to his office; no record was made of
when his priesthood began, nor was any provision made for a
successor. In these respects he typified Messiah. (Heb. 7:1-4) PD25/36
After the order -- Or, manner. R714:1, R4877:2
Our Lord is the Head of this priesthood, and the gospel
Church are his members, his under priesthood. R5424:1
Of Melchizedek -- If Christ was to be a priest after the
order of Melchizedec, he could not be a priest after the order
of Aaron. Q692:6
The renunciation of the earthly nature is necessary to the
attainment of this kingly priesthood. OV106:2
A priest upon his throne. T30; SM499:1; R4715:2,
R5066:1, R5472:3, R5776:6
Who represented The Christ in glory with full power to bless.
R3951:6, R4877:2; Q696:2; SM137:2
Christ is not on his own throne yet. He is waiting at the
Father's right hand for his foes to be subjected to him; for the
Church to be completed. CR361:1
The New Creature (the priest) is not of the Aaronic order. It
does not trace its lineage to any human source. This was
strikingly typified in the priesthood of Melchizedek. R713:3,
R5226:6, R4877:2, R3951:6
Our Lord is now the great Prophet, Priest and King after the
order of Melchizedek. OV402:2; CR112:5
Not one jot or tittle of the Law failed. The priesthood did not
cease, but was merely transferred from the order of Aaron to
the order of Melchizedek. OV105:2
As we have no right to intrude into the typical Holy or Most
Holy, so they of the house of Aaron have no right to come
into the antitypical Holy, which we enter. Q692:7
Under this priesthood, men will gradually rise up out of sin
and death during a period similar in time to the 930 years in
which Adam experienced the dying process. SM503:1
Psalm 110: 5
The Lord -- Adonai, Jesus. E49

At thy right hand -- In Jehovah's position of chief favor.
E49
It is Jehovah's power that will bring about the Millennial
victory of The Christ. R3079:5
Day of his wrath -- The Day of Vengeance, the time of
trouble. A308, A323
The Millennium is preceded by the most terrible judgments
upon the nations. In consequence of these judgments, the
people are turned to a pure worship. HG18:5
Psalm 110:6
He shall -- With the sword of truth. B101

Wound the heads -- Civil, social and ecclesiastical. B101
As the "old world" ended with an almost entire destruction of
individual life, so national life is to be destroyed in the end of
this world. HG18:2
Psalm 110:7
Drink of the brook -- Wisdom gained by experience. "He

learned obedience by the things which he suffered." (Heb.
5:8) His testing was of a character and of an intensity such as
never before had been brought to him or any other creature.
R2935:6
"The cup which my Father hath poured for me, shall I not
drink it?" (John 18:11) R2936:1
It is necessary that all the members of his Body should
likewise drink of the brook in the way if they would share
with the Lord in kingdom blessings. R2936:1
Therefore -- Because he did what is now our privilege to
do. R2936:1
Lift up the head -- Be exalted, as we will be also if we

follow him. R2936:1
Psalm 111
Psalm 111:9
Reverend -- Reverence is defined as a feeling of profound

respect, often mingled with awe and affection; worshipful
regard when directed to the divine or sacred. R2002:3
Psalm 111:10
Fear of the LORD -- Such reverence inspired our coming

to the Lord in consecration. It helped to perfect our sacrifices
by keeping us back from presumptuous sins, and helped to fix
acceptable character. R4462:5
The filial fear of failure to fully manifest love and
thankfulness. R1122:5
The fear to do aught that would be displeasing to him or that
would separate from his love and favor. R2986:6
When he speaks, therefore, our ears should be attentive to his
voice and every power alert to do his bidding. R2002:3
One of the peculiarities of our day is lack of reverence.
R2053:3
Looking away from our narrow thoughts, plans and schemes
and allowing our minds to dwell upon the grandeur of God's
benevolent, loving and glorious character. R1518:3
Under proper limitations, fear is a healthy condition.
R4996:3
Scripture text cards in every room are a constant reminder
that the Lord's will is the only standard recognized. F554
Perfect love casts out slavish, but not reverential, fear.
R2986:6
Reverence; not the fear of eternal torment. OV261:5;
R5952:5
A proper reverence acts as a restraint upon sin. OV180:1
Our coming to the Lord was inspired by reverence for him.
R4462:5
It is a dangerous practice to speak jestingly of the Lord and
the Scriptures. R5952:5
Beginning of wisdom -- Only when it leads to greater
carefulness of living and to a desire for the Heavenly Father's
approval. OV180:1
We must have reverence to begin with, and all the time.
CR40:1
An appreciation of the infinite power of the Creator and our
own littleness should make us teachable. PD1/7
Psalm 112
Psalm 112:4
There ariseth light -- Truth. A20
Psalm 112:5
With discretion -- Hebrew, mish-paht, righteousness.

HG16:6
Psalm 112:6
The righteous -- The Ancient Worthies and others who

cooperate with them during the Millennial age in turning
many to righteousness. A291; R1409:6
Psalm 112:9
He hath dispersed -- Quoted by the Apostle Paul in 1

Cor. 9:9 to support his plea for Christian benevolence and
alms-giving. R2212:5, R2211:1, R5927:5, R5926:1
His horn -- Horns are symbols of power. T42
Psalm 113
Psalm 113:1
Praise ye the LORD -- The first of the "Great Hillel"

Psalms (113-118) which were chanted antiphonally, with
responses, to flute accompaniment, on the last day of the
Feast of Tabernacles. R2438:6*
At the end of the Kingdom mankind will be filled with joy,
gladness, life and happiness and be enabled to sing the praises
of the Lord. R4243:5*
Psalm 113:7
Raiseth up the poor -- His power and influence will be the

great moving principle that will level the whole world of
mankind. R4982:4
Psalm 114
Psalm 114:3
The sea -- The time of anarchy in the close of this age.

R1657:5
Jordan -- Meaning "Judged down," "Condemned."
Typifying the curse, which has rested for 6000 years against
our race. R3086:4
Psalm 115
Psalm 115:1
Not unto us -- An exhortation to humility. R5901:1
Psalm 115:6
But they smell not -- Ruach, exert invisible power--sense

of smell. E174
Psalm 115:16
The children of men -- As represented by father Adam,

and conditioned upon obedience and loyalty. R5335:5
God's guidance in the affairs of earth was originally intended.
R5304:3
The race as a whole will have possession of the earth.
R5183:1, R5112:1
God would have the prosperous concentrate their mental
powers not upon the personal aggregation of wealth, but upon
generous schemes for the uplifting of the entire race.
R5112:5
Psalm 115:17
The dead praise not -- But the resurrection of the dead

will bring all to a full knowledge of the truth. R890:1
Down into silence -- "There is no work, nor device, nor
knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave" (Eccl. 9:10); not a
place where shrieks and groans are heard. R2599:2, R2604:4
Death is a place of darkness (Job 10:21); of no remembrance
(Psa. 6:5); a land of forgetfulness (Psa. 88:11) where there is
neither work, nor device, nor wisdom, nor knowledge (Eccl.
9:5,10; Job 14:21). CR209:2*; HG194:5, HG216:2
Psalm 116
Psalm 116:3
Sorrows of death -- The sadness associated with the

thought that he was about to die. OV265:1
Pains of hell -- The fear of sheol, oblivion, death; no
reference to anything in the future life. E366; OV265:1
Gat hold upon me -- Sickness and trouble are the
figurative hands of the grave to grasp us. R2599:3
Psalm 116:7
-Return -- When, for a season, there is a cloud between us

and the Lord, because we fail to maintain the standard, it can
only be removed by repentance and forgiveness. R5149:4
Unto thy rest -- Of faith in the promises of God. R5433:1
Let the mind return to its rest in contemplation of the beauty
of holiness, which is the mark, or goal, of the high calling.
R1885:6
Psalm 116:12
What shall I render -- The things we consecrated to God,

our little all. CR474:6; R5726:2
Our time, our strength and our bodies as living sacrifices.
CR308:2, CR306:1; R5538:2
Each day should begin with the inquiry as to what are the
possibilities of our service or sacrifice in the Lord's cause.
R5155:2
Not, "What will he or she render?" but, "Lord, what shall I
render?" CR304:2
All his benefits -- Which we have received, as well as
those we hope yet to receive. R5155:2, R5726:1; CR474:5
Psalm 116:13
I will take -- Through faith in Christ, the Redeemer.

R1673:4
The cup -- Of self-denial, shame, ignominy and abasement
now; blessing and refreshment in the Kingdom. R3853:6,
R5155:2, R5538:4; CR316:4, R329:4
All the experiences that come to us in his providence, every
day. R5538:4; CR307:2, R322:6
Of salvation -- The gift of God's love, purchased for us at
great cost. R1673:4
Which is the cup of sacrifice. R4304:5
The cup of death is represented as a cup of salvation because
only thereby can our salvation, and the world's, be attained.
R4555:5
Call upon the name -- Giving him our fullest confidence.
R1673:4
For needed aid, not trusting in our own strength. R4555:6,
R5155:5, R5539:5; CR322:6
Psalm 116:14
I will pay my vows -- Fulfil my covenant of consecration,

of sacrifice, faithful unto death. R3282:5, R4555:6,
R5539:1
The vow of Christ and his members is faithfulness unto death--
the drinking of the cup. R4555:5
Now -- Now is the acceptable time for the Church.
R5539:1
Promptly. R1673:4
Presence of all -- The Lord desires a public confession; a
witness before men. R5539:4, R4304:5, R4266:5
We will not keep secret the matter of our vow, nor the matter
of our obedience, but we will stimulate one another in the
good way. R5155:5
Psalm 116:15
Precious -- No matter how long ago it took place. C233

He takes special note of their death. R4651:3
Sight of the LORD -- "The Father himself loveth you."
(John 16:27) R2355:4
Death of his saints "Ye shall all die like men, and fall like
one of the princes." (Psa. 82:7) C239
Nothing that befalls them is an accident. F646
In their case, the control of "Him that hath the power of
death" (Heb. 2:14) is limited. R2180:1
As in the Lord's case, dying daily (1 Cor. 15:3), even unto
death. R3282:5
Consecration--dying daily--and finally, actual death--they are
all precious to the Father. Q221:2
Such, at his coming, are raised in his likeness. R1210:3*
Those of the Jewish age, into the glory of the earthly phase of
the Kingdom; those of the Gospel age, into the glory of its
heavenly phase. R1562:2, R2354:6
As though the vow referred to symbolized death to self and
the world, as well as to sin. R4266:5
Psalm 116:17
Sacrifice of thanksgiving -- There is a more difficult

sacrifice than this offering of praise--to forsake all, take up
our cross, and follow him in the narrow way. R4535:2
Psalm 118
Psalm 118:1
O give thanks -- This Psalm was probably written for the

dedication of the Temple. R4297:1
The last of the "Great Hillel," which was chanted
antiphonally, or rather with responses, accompanied by the
flute, on the last day of the Feast of Tabernacles. R2438:6*
Endureth for ever -- The wrath of God is always just, and
tempered with mercy. R2613:2, R5427:3; HG319:5
To a full completion. R5427:3
Psalm 118:4
That fear the LORD -- Perfect love casts out slavish, but
not reverential, fear. R2986:6
Psalm 118:6
I will not fear -- I shall be content, so long as I have my

Father and my Redeemer. R5113:6
Can man do -- Or say of me. R5113:6
Psalm 118:20
This gate of -- This is the gate that leadeth to. D639
Psalm 118:22
The stone -- Christ. R1796:4; C329

Is become -- In reference to his triumph in the resurrection
and his future glory as King of the whole earth. R1796:4
The head stone -- Typified by the top stone of the Great
Pyramid. C329; R1982:1,6
A foundation is laid in the heavens, not on earth; the living
stones built upon it are cemented to it by heavenly not
earthly, attractions. R1982:2
"The chief corner stone" of the Temple which God purposes
to build. R2940:2
As of a pyramid. Every under-stone must be built in harmony
with the lines and angles of the top-stone, showing how all of
God's sons, earthly and heavenly, must be conformed to the
image of his Son. A242,243
Psalm 118:23
It is marvellous -- To have the stone "witness," the Great

Pyramid, speak, and corroborate the testimony of the Bible, is
astounding. C374
Psalm 118:24
This is the day -- The day of earth's salvation; the

Millennial day of Christ's glory as the Head and Ruler of the
world. C329; D639
Psalm 118:27
Shewed us light -- Truth. A20

Bind the sacrifice -- In the time of sacrifice. R2789:1
Dying daily is a very hard thing to do. R4244:5*
The Vow is a closer binding of the sacrifice of consecration to
the altar. R4402:3*
With cords -- The cords of love and zeal. R2588:6
In the Tabernacle type, the goat was tied, picturing the
covenant of sacrifice which we make. R4864:3
Of the altar -- The Brazen altar. R101:1*
Psalm 119
Psalm 119:9
Wherewithal -- The law of God is a detector of false

ways; therefore we should test all of our ways by it. R705:6
A young man -- At the verge of manhood life's great work
and duties must be faced, and the youth must come in contact,
to some extent, with the wickedness of an ungodly world.
R2146:2*
Cleanse his way -- Keep a clean course in life. R2146:2*
By taking heed -- Very few take time to consider, to weigh
and compare principles and motives of action, to see whether
the ends for which they strive are worthy of their efforts.
R2146:1*
To thy word -- "Able to make thee wise unto salvation."
(2 Tim. 3:15) R2146:4*
Coming to it for answers to all questions of right and duty,
studying how the perfect law of God applies to daily life, its
associations and obligations. R2146:6*
Psalm 119:10
I sought thee -- The Christian who abandons daily reading

of the Word and meditation on its precepts is not a growing
Christian. R1850:5
Psalm 119:11
Hid in mine heart -- Heart appreciation of the divine

arrangements. R4409:5, R1850: 5
Psalm 119:15
I will meditate -- With a meek and prayerful spirit; not

read carelessly. R2146:5
Only in pondering the Word of the Lord can we receive the
nourishment it is designed to give. R1390:3
A life acceptable to God is to be attained, not merely by
prayers and resolutions, but by systematic effort at self-cultivation
and nipping the weeds of perversity in the bud.
R1296:2
In thy precepts -- By diligent and constant cultivation of
pure, benevolent and noble thoughts. R4834:6
Psalm 119:16
I will delight -- Not merely a willingness to do the Lord's

will under restraint, but a willing heart-- "I delight to do thy
will." (Psa. 40:8) R3609:1
I will not forget -- The key to all proper living. R3609:1,
R4834:5
Thy word -- Not according to the imperfect standard, but
according to God's Word. R4834:6
Psalm 119:18
Open thou mine eyes -- God's Word explains many

mysteries, and his faithful servants, who study his Word, are
not in darkness. R1063:4*
Wondrous things -- The matchless harmony of the divine
plan. A349
Out of thy law -- The entire Word of God, in a larger
sense, is God's law. R1498:5
Psalm 119:54
Have been my songs -- "Thou hast put a new song into my

mouth, even the lovingkindness of our God." (Psa. 40:3)
R2232:2
"Songs in the night." (Job 35:10) R2232:1
Not only literal songs, but the entire life will be a song of
praise and thanksgiving. R2232:2
Remember Paul and Silas, praising God in the prison of
Philippi, while their backs were still lacerated and bleeding?
R2232:5
In the house -- "The present evil world" (Gal. 1:4) is the
general house of our pilgrimage while waiting for the change
from the human to the divine nature. OV178:T; R2231:2
"The earthly house of this tabernacle." (2 Cor. 5:1) R2231:3
Of my pilgrimage -- While waiting for the "city" of God.
R2231:1
Even while we remain here as enemies and foreigners in the
enemies' lands, we shall be fed and nourished temporally and
spiritually. R5803:6
Psalm 119:55
In the night -- Before the dawn of the Millennial day.

R2232:1
Psalm 119:67
I was afflicted -- Our Heavenly Father designs that various

kinds of trouble shall come upon us to develop and prove our
characters. R5879:4, R2382:1; F648
There are great blessings connected with afflictions. F648
The real interests of the New Creation and their physical
conditions and interests are often opposites. F631
I went astray -- It often requires several adversities to
awaken one to come unto the Father through Christ for relief.
R4048:3
But now -- Therefore, we can thank God for earthly
adversities. SM330:T
As Job was blessed more abundantly after his trials than
before, so in mankind's final restoration they will have the
blessing of added experience to make them wise. R5803:4
The severe tribulations and disciplines of Israel's "seven
times" will prove favorable to such of them as incline to do
right. In fact, when Jesus came, they had proved so favorable
that they were the holiest people in the world. Q356:4
Psalm 119:71
It is good for me -- Precious indeed to the saints of God is

the ministry of pain and sorrow. R5803:2, R5879:4,
R2382:1; F648
"If ye be without chastisement (discipline, training), then are
ye bastards and not sons," (Heb. 12:8) R5879:4
Psalm 119:75
Afflicted me -- See comments on verses 67 and 71.
Psalm 119:76
According to thy word -- Pray, trusting God's love and

mercy. R5380:5*
Psalm 119:90
And it abideth -- The same physical earth remains as the

scene for great revolutionary changes which destroy the
preceding order of things. R1615:4
Psalm 119:97
0 how I love thy law -- The law of love, whose foundation

is justice. R5885:5, R3070:6, R3071:4, R1535:5
We should love it as Christ loved it, study it and endeavor to
conform to it as he did, glory in it and, by word and example,
teach it to others as he did. R1404:5
We learn to delight ourselves in God's law by assembling
together for Bible study. R597:6*
Meditation -- We should, in every detail of life, consider
carefully what is right and what is wrong according to
Scripture. This course is termed meditating on God's law.
R5116:3
If God's law were the constant meditation of all, there would
be fewer glaring mistakes. R5885:5, R3071:4
All the day -- Since it is to be applied to all our business
and social relations, its often intricate problems require close
discernment. R1703:5, R4062:4
Psalm 119:99
More understanding -- God's Word explains many

mysteries, and his faithful servants, who study his Word, are
not in darkness. R1063:4*
Psalm 119:104
I get understanding -- While seeking to follow the

various specific commands of Scripture, let us seek more and
more to understand the principles which underlie the divine
law. R3596:1, R4803:4; HG620:1
Every false way -- The law of God is a detector of false
ways; therefore, we should test all our ways by it. R705:6
Psalm 119:105
Thy word is a lamp -- His providence and Word.

R4663:4
A prophetic lamp. D617
We need the Bible now as a lamp because we are in a dark
time, until the day dawn. Q43:2; CR251:4
During the time of the world's existence the Bible has been
the lamp, or light, to God's people. CR267:3
In this age the Word is the lamp and the Church the
lampstand, but in the next age we shall shine forth as the sun
in the kingdom of our Father. (Matt. 13:43) R243:6*,
R244:1*
During the Millennium the world will have something better,
yet they will get a blessing from the Bible when they see how
prophecies were fulfilled. Q43:2
All who walk the narrow way must use the lamp and walk
with great particularity. CR340:4
In proportion as we feed the flame of the Spirit with the truth,
we become burning and shining lights in the world, having
the Spirit of the Lord in us. R4419:4
The lamps are trimmed by searching the Scriptures. C92
Even believers see only in part, and should desire increasing
light, which God has for the Church only. HG745:6
The heathen are in gross darkness. Civilization is in darkness
also, although not as gross as in heathendom. HGI79:6
Those who have it not stumble on in the darkness. R3686:3,
R4988:1
Unto my feet -- Pictures the traveler with the lamp
attached to the toe of his sandal, giving light only for each
step of the way. SM242:1; R5055:2
Not a light like that of the moon, which reaches far out, but
merely a little light at the feet of those watching for it. Those
who are going to sleep will find their light going out.
R5256:6
Light unto my path -- illuminating the signs of the times.
R2973:3
Only for those who walk in the footsteps of Jesus. It does not
shine far into the future, but enough for each onward step as it
becomes due. A20; OV203:1; R3468:6
"The path of the just is as the shining light." (Prov. 4:18)
A20
The light prevents stumbling over the "stone of stumbling."
(Isa. 8:14) R176:5
No amount of prayer will make up for neglect to study the
Lord's Word. R5709:5
The Law was a light, but was ultimately superseded by the
true light, the Gospel. R2439:1, R2504:4
God's promises respecting the glorious morning are
figuratively called "light," and these constitute the Bible.
R5038:2
But let us beware in this day of the "new lights" and of many
presenting themselves as special teachers. R2532:4
Psalm 119:130
Giveth light -- Wisdom from above is the noblest science

and the best instruction. R4825:1
Psalm 119:133
Order my steps -- Help me so to walk as to make as few

mistakes as possible. R3157:1
In thy word -- The Word of God furnishes principles,
precepts and examples broad enough to indicate the Lord's
will in all the minutest affairs of life. R614:4
According to thy promise; perhaps by sending financial or
social disappointments, or sickness of body so as to bring
back the wandering sheep. R3157:2
Psalm 119:148
Prevent -- Anticipate. R5518:5

Thy word -- Law, precept--the spirit, the purpose of that
law, not merely the outward form. R5518:5
Psalm 119:165
Great peace -- "God has called us to peace." (1 Cor.

7:15) R2946:3
The knowledge that all of their affairs are under divine
supervision. R5933:1
Which love thy law -- To appreciate the fact that God has
a great purpose; to take delight in finding out what God's will
is; to have full confidence in his justice, wisdom, love and
power. R4898:1; Q528:5
God's law represents God's will. R4898:1
Offend -- Stumble. Those that stumble are those that are
not rightly in harmony with God's law. R5933:1; Q528:5
Psalm 119:174
For thy salvation -- From all sin, and to the perfection

and beauty of holiness. R1938:2
Psalm 119:175
Let my soul live -- The soul can be destroyed by its
Creator. R1882:1; HG334:5
Psalm 121
Psalm 121:2
My help -- The Lord's people never needed help more than

at the present. The difficulty with some, however, is that they
do not realize their need. R4311:1
Cometh from the LORD -- Not relying on our own
strength or wisdom or the assistance of our fellows; not
despising assistance from any quarter, but receiving it in the
conviction that it comes from the Lord. R4311:2
Psalm 121:4
Slumber nor sleep -- Whether we call on him in the busy

hours of the day or in the silent watches of the night he is near
to sustain, uphold, and protect, whether we realize his
presence or not. R5549:1
Psalm 121:5
LORD is thy keeper -- The great Covenant Keeper, who

has promised and who will not fail in his promises. R3632:2
He would protect them as long as they would be loyal to him.
R5626:2
Psalm 121:8
Preserve thy going -- Refers especially to the spiritual life

of the Lord's consecrated people. R1682:4
Psalm 122
Psalm 122:1
Go into the house -- Become part of the true Temple.

R3284:4, R1495:6
In the Millennial age all mankind will be invited to approach
the Lord and his spiritual Temple, The Christ; and, through
them, the Father. R3284:4
Psalm 122:6
Peace of Jerusalem -- As true of Jerusalem the higher,

and her children of peace, as of the earthly Jerusalem. Those
who pray for the Lord's cause seek to serve it and are
proportionately blessed thereby. R2576:2
Psalm 123
Psalm 123:2
Wait upon the LORD -- We should recognize the divine

providences and look for them. R5844:2
Psalm 125
Psalm 125:1
Be as Mount Zion -- The spiritual phase of the kingdom of

God. A295; R5574:4
Psalm 125:2
Jerusalem -- Would be a difficult city for an enemy to

successfully attack; so is the defense of the Lord's people.
R4623:3
Is round about -- As a fortress and protection under every
adverse influence. R4623:3
We are surrounded by God's messengers. (Psa. 34:7)
R158:6*
Psalm 126
Psalm 126:2
Tongue with singing -- While the whole creation groans,

the saintly few may sing, may rejoice. R4892:5
As Israel left Babylon with great joy, so we who have gotten
free from mystic Babylon rejoice exceedingly and would not
go back under any consideration. R3643:4
Psalm 126:3
For us -- For natural Israel upon her return from literal

Babylon; for spiritual Israel upon her return from mystic
Babylon. R3643:1, R4892:2
We are glad -- Those not thus stirred in spirit may as well
stay in Babylon, as they would only prove snares and
stumbling blocks to others. R2510:5
These have joy and peace because he grants to them a
knowledge of his divine purposes and of things to come.
R4892:5
Psalm 126:5
They that sow -- The work of seed sowing was to be one

of the main features of the Church's work until the Harvest,
but the work of the harvest time is altogether different.
R885:2*
Psalm 126:6
And weepeth -- Feeling the importance and cost of the

work in self-sacrifice. R785:1
Touched with sympathy for the blinded and suffering.
R935:5*
Doubtless come again -- We "know that our labor is not in
vain in the Lord" (1 Cor. 15:58); we will see some of the
fruit. R785:1
Psalm 127
Psalm 127:2
His beloved sleep -- Many, previously troubled with the

cares of this life, have cast their cares upon the Lord and
have regained the ability to enjoy sweet rest in sleep.
R3003:4
Psalm 130
Psalm 130:1
Out of the depths -- In every life, in the present reign of

sin and evil, the somber shades predominate. R5802:2,
R1759:2
It is in seasons of overwhelming sorrow, when we draw near
to the Lord, that he draws especially near to us. R1759:5,
R5802:3
Have I cried -- The soul that has never known the
discipline of sorrow and trouble has never yet learned the
preciousness of the Lord's love and helpfulness. R1759:3
Unto thee, O LORD -- The righteousness of our Savior is
our glorious dress in which we may come to God with humble
boldness, courage. R5802:5
Psalm 130:3
Mark iniquities -- When the heart is true and loyal, God

does not mark our infirmities in a record against us. R1759:6
Mark against us the unavoidable blemishes of our earthen
vessel. R5802:5
Who shall stand? -- David, feeling his own shortcomings,
longed for full deliverance from every imperfection. R5802:3
Psalm 130:4
There Is forgiveness -- Mercy is one of the grandest and

most impressive features of the divine character. R3599:2
The fact that God gives us credit for our heart intentions
prompts us to greater reverence for him. R5681:1
That thou mayest -- It is God's love which constrains us to
seek him, desire to serve him, and walk in the footsteps of
Jesus. R4931:3
If God were not forgiving and merciful, we might indeed be
in terror before him, but we could not love him, not have the
same incentive to righteousness. R3599:2
Feared -- Reverenced. R1759:5, R4931:3
Psalm 130:5
I wait for the LORD -- How necessary is the patient

waiting on the Lord. R1759:6, R5802:6
"Wait patiently for him ... and he shall bring it to pass." (Psa.
37:7, 5) R1760:1
Do I hope -- He loves us too well to permit any needless
sorrow, any needless suffering. R5802:6
God has not forgotten when the answers to our prayers seem
to tarry long. R1760:1
Psalm 130:6
More than they -- Who are watching from the standpoints

of socialism, nationalism, and other human plans and hopes.
RI760:4
For the morning -- The Millennial morning. R1760:1
Psalm 131
Psalm 131:2
Quieted myself -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being. E334
Psalm 132
Psalm 132:7
At his footstool -- Applied by Popists to the kissing of the

Pope's foot. B309
Psalm 132:8
Arise, O LORD -- Chanted just before the glory of the

Lord filled the Temple at its dedication. R4297:4*
Referring to the cloud's lifting from the Tabernacle and going
before Israel as a guide. R3060:6
Thou, and the ark -- The Christ. T121
Psalm 132:11
Fruit of thy body -- The genealogical records prove Jesus

to be the Son of David, as the prophets foretold. R944:1*
Fulfilled in Solomon only because Solomon was a type of the
greater Son of David, who was also the Son of God.
R2372:6
The typical kingdom continued from David to Zedekiah, then
was taken away from the earth, never to be replaced until the
Messiah replaces it as God's true Kingdom at his reign.
Q93:8
If Solomon had obeyed God as did David, the deathless heir
to the throne would have come from his seed as well.
R467:3*
The Maccabeans did not come from the line God recognized,
and the Herod family were not Jews at all. Q93:8
Psalm 132:12
If thy children -- But they did not meet the conditions, and
Solomon's line was rejected as Christ's ancestry. E130
Psalm 132:13
Hath chosen Zion -- The true Church. D158
Psalm 132:17
The horn -- Horns are symbols of power. T42

Of David -- Type of Christ. B255
Psalm 133
Psalm 133:1
How pleasant -- This Psalm seems to be specially

applicable to our day. R4994:3
Brethren -- The Church. R4994:3
But truth and error, light and darkness, are not brethren. They
are implacable and everlasting foes. R753:5, R5229:5
Together in unity -- All who have the spirit of the Head
must be in sympathy with the fellow members of the Body.
F132
The more the Lord's jewels come together, the more
opportunities for friction, and the more need for the holy
Spirit. R4995:6
It would be easier for a company of people in the nominal
church to live together in unity. R4995:1
While each New Creature is a complete member of Christ,
yet in addition all the New Creatures are to recognize
themselves as members one of another, and are to exercise
toward each other such love as will prevent friction and
enable the whole to cooperate for its own upbuilding and
completion. R2227:5
Made difficult because of the Christian's real intrinsic worth
or character--like diamonds being rubbed together. R4995:4
Let our combativeness be engaged against the great enemy
and all the works of sin--including those in our fallen flesh.
R3246:5
Each brother has a right to his own opinion. We have no
right to make our views tests. The things that are tests are
the things given us in the Scriptures. R4995:3,4
If we find any member unendurable, we should ask for more
of the Lord's spirit so that we may exercise more patience and
brotherly kindness in dealing with that one. R5230:1,4
The most favorable condition for unity is that all shall seek to
have the Lord's will done in their mortal bodies. R5229:3
Illustrated by David, who was emphatically a man of peace
toward his brethren of all the tribes. R3246:5
Illustrated in the Bethel family. HG503:1
Psalm 133:2
Precious ointment -- The holy Spirit. T37, R5235:6,

R5654:5, R5971:6
"The anointing which we have received of him abideth in you
" (1 John 2:27) T37, E215
The anointing belongs to the entire Body--the qualifying
power of God on all the Royal Priesthood, authorizing them
to declare the glad tidings. E215; Q23:T, R5971:6
Jesus' anointing was God's recognition and acceptance of his
sacrifice. R1688:4
Upon the head -- Upon Christ Jesus at the time of his
baptism. T37, R5424:5, R5549:4, R5587:5; CR460:3
"Anointed with the oil of gladness above his fellows." (Psa.
45:7) T37
In Jesus alone have we any standing before God. R5536:5
That ran down -- From the baptism of Jesus to the last
member of his Body. E215; CR251:5; OVI61:T, CR460.3
The underpriests took part in the ceremony and were anointed
symbolically in him as members of his body. R135:1,
R270:6
Even Aaron's -- Type of The Christ, Head and Body. T37
To the skirts -- Showing that the same anointing covers all
the members of the Body. R4994:3, R5971:6, R5549:4,
R5654:5, R1715:3; SM599:T, Q452:T, CR251:5
Of his garments -- Anointing all who are truly his,
covered by his robes. R72:6; T38
Psalm 135
Psalm 135:4
LORD hath chosen Jacob -- God himself was king of

Israel. Hezekiah and others were only his representatives on
the throne. R1358:4
His peculiar treasure -- So long as Israel was under the
divine rulership and care, no evil could befall them--except by
divine permission for their correction and discipline.
R1358:5
Psalm 135:14
The LORD will judge -- It is not for us to judge any.

R4473:6
His people -- Up to the present God has not been judging
the world; the trial is confined to justified believers.
HG234:3
Psalm 136
Psalm 136:1

The wrath of God is always just, and tempered with mercy.
R5427:3, R3283:4, R2613:2
This Psalm was probably sung by the Levites and the people
of Israel at the dedication of Solomon's Temple. R3283:4,
R4297:1
Therefore, the punishment of the wicked will end sometime.
R236:4, R356:2
Psalm 136:6
Stretched out the earth -- By gathering together the

waters into seas; by convulsions of earth casting up mountain
ranges and depressing other parts for the gatherings of waters,
seas. R1813:1
Above the waters -- Higher than the waters. R1813:1
Psalm 136:8
The sun to rule -- Not the limitation of its usefulness; only

that which specially pertains to man and the earth, his home,
is mentioned. R1812:6
Psalm 136:10

God's mercy towards human sinners will endure until Christ
makes an end of it in the close of the Millennial age.
R1454:1
Not limited to the present life. During the Millennial age the
hand that smote will be turned to heal. R5427:3; A256
Psalm 136:15
Overthrew Pharaoh -- Type of Satan. F458

In the Red sea -- Type of the Second Death. F459
Psalm 137
Psalm 137:1
Rivers of Babylon -- Defiled by the mire of worldliness

and error. R497:6
Yea, we wept -- Fleshly Israel, after the overturn of their
kingdom. B83
Remembered Zion -- God's favor to Zion in the past.
R497:6
Psalm 137:2
Hanged our harps -- Laid aside the harps of God. R497:6

Take down your harps; flee from Babylon into full liberty of
thought and expression; tune your harps and sing the song of
Moses and the Lamb. R497:6
Upon the willows -- Weeping over the grave of truth.
R497:6
Psa. 137:3 :
They that carried -- The Babylonian system. R497:6

Required of us mirth -- Babylon would like to see Zion's
captives happy in the midst of her worldliness. R497:6
Songs of Zion -- That she might boast of the Lord's favor.
R497:6
Psalm 137:5
If I forget thee -- It is pleasing to note that in the land of

their captivity Israel was reclaimed from idolatry so
thoroughly as never to return to it again. R1483.3
Psalm 137:6
Remember thee -- The spirit of praise is cultivated by

calling to mind and recounting what the Lord has done.
R2031:5
Psalm 138
Psalm 138:2
Thy holy temple -- The Christ. T70
Psalm 138:6
Unto the lowly -- Only the poor in spirit, the humble and
teachable ones, can submit to the discipline and training
necessary to fit them for the Kingdom. R2139:4
Psalm 139
Psalm 139:6
Such knowledge -- His mighty intellect grasps with ease

all the interests of his wide domain, from immensity to
minutia. R1864:3
Memory that never fails, judgment that never errs, plans that
never miscarry, vigilance that never ceases. R1560:2
Psalm 139:7
Go from thy spirit -- To escape or be hidden from divine

power. E366
Psalm 139:8
My bed in hell -- Sheol, oblivion, death, not torment.

E366
Thou art there -- Even oblivion is accessible to divine
power. E366
God has the same power to aid those in hell that he has to
bless those in heaven. HG754:6*, HG756:1*
God's power is unlimited. Even over those in the tomb he
can, and will, exert it, and bring forth all that are in the
graves. (John 5:28) R2599:3
"I have the keys of death and of hades, oblivion." (Rev. 1:
18) E366
Psalm 139:14
Fearfully -- Awe-fully; we are noble creatures, in the

image of our God, except as marred by sin. R1566:3
Psalm 139:15
My substance -- My organism. E404

When I was made -- Either at first birth, or in the
resurrection. E404
Psalm 139:16
In continuance -- Gradually. E404
Psalm 139:21
Them Includes both evil men and evil angels. Q322:2
Psalm 139:22
Perfect hatred -- We want to hate what the Lord hates.

"Thou hast loved righteousness and hated iniquity " (Heb.
1:9) R4909:5, R1861:4, R5949:2, R1291:1; Q321:5,
Q783:T
We hate the Antichrist systems with "a perfect hatred"
because we love God with a perfect love. The two, being
opposites, properly produce opposite sentiments. R1191:4
We have no thought of ever becoming more loving than the
Lord. R4909:6, R2131:2
Psalm 139:23
Search me, O God -- It is in the diagnosis of our case that

we are most likely to err; it is here that sobriety of mind and
meekness are so much needed. R2094:5
Try me -- The Lord says, I will prove you by leaving you
all your time, influence, money, everything, in your hands as
my steward. Q615:T
Psalm 141
Psalm 141:2
As incense -- The incense of old, which typified the

prayers of saints, was composed of a rare mixture which only
the priests were allowed to make. R5692:5
The prayers of God's people rise up before him as a sweet
perfume. R5692:5
Psalm 141:3
Keep -- If the prayer be sincere, the petitioner will do all in

his power in this direction while seeking divine aid. R3739:6
The door of my lips -- Whatever difficulty we have
through our lips needs correction at our hearts. R3739:6
Help me to be secretive at the proper time. R3971:5
What a fearful responsibility attaches to the tongue that wags
in an evil, or even in a flippant, way, which is also
dishonoring to God. R1938:2
Psalm 141:4
To any evil thing -- Assist me in my determination of

opposition to all these things (dainties of this world).
R5692:6
Psalm 141:5
Let the righteous -- Primarily the Lord Jesus; also right-intentioned,

right-willed persons, manifesting in their conduct
the spirit of righteousness. R4977:2
Smite me -- Those in fellowship with God will take no
offense if reproved by the righteous. R5692:6
A kindness -- We should be glad to be set right if we are
wrong, and receive it as of the Lord. R4977:2
Let him -- A proper reproof should not be injurious, but
uplifting and refreshing. R4977:2
Reprove me -- Administering reproof to another should be
done only after careful consideration and prayer. R4977:3
An excellent oil -- Such as a guest received from his host
in ancient time. R5692:6
Shall not break -- Neither our heads nor our hearts are
broken by Scriptural reproofs. R5693:1
"Let not my head refuse it." (American Revision) R5693:1
Reproof should not be disastrous, not crushing. R4977:3
In their calamities -- Rendered "evil" in "I create evil."
(Isa. 45:7) A125
"Even in their wickedness shall my prayer continue. "
(American Revision) R5693:1
Psalm 141:7
At the grave's -- Sheol, oblivion. E366
Psalm 141:9
From the snares -- But the world will be ensnared in the

great time of trouble. R5693:5
Psalm 141:10
Let the wicked fall -- Satan and his servants will be

overwhelmed in the great time of trouble approaching, in a
manner not expected. R5693:5
Psalm 142
Psalm 142:6
For they are stronger -- Pray, pleading our need.

R5380:5*
Psalm 143
Psalm 143:5
I remember -- The spirit of praise is cultivated by calling

to mind and recounting what the Lord has done for us.
R2031:5
Work of thy hands -- The two great books of nature and
of revelation are special themes of meditation for those who
love the Lord and desire to know more of him. R1390:6
Psalm 143:8

A60; E364
Psalm 143:10
Lead me -- Ask him to guide you, with no will of your

own or choice as to the pathway, silently waiting to hear his
voice, and it will be given you to know his will. R590:5*
Psalm 144
Psalm 144:1
Fingers to fight -- We should never go to battle without

the assurance that the battle is the Lord's, nor should we
forget that "Our weapons are not carnal weapons." (2 Cor.
10: 4) R2015:3
Psalm 144:6
Cast forth lightning -- Diffusions of knowledge. R511:2

Shoot out thine arrows -- Divine truth, slaughtering the
hosts of error. R5493:6; CR164:4; SM440:l
Psalm 144:11
Strange children -- The Lord shall separate the false, or

strange, children from the true, and will glorify the saintly
ones. R4768:2
Psalm 144:12
Corner stones -- Corner pillars. R4768:4

Polished -- Sculptured. R4768:4
The grace and beauty of the children of the Messiah will be
marvelous, attaining to more than Adamic perfection.
R4768:4
Psalm 144:13
Our streets -- Your open pastures. R4768:4

Psalm 144:14
No breaking in -- No breach--no rupture of happy

relationships. R4768:4
Nor going out -- No migration, no more seeking for better
or more happifying conditions. R4768:5
Even death shall be destroyed. R4768:4
No complaining -- Discontent is now rapidly increasing
with every added blessing of our wonderful day. R4768:5
Contentment will take the place of selfishness and discontent.
R4768:5
Psalm 144:15
Happy is that people -- It is an ideal picture of the future

and not of the past. R4768:1
That happy nation will acquire, additionally, a happy home
and a worldwide paradise. Even human perfection could not
bring happiness if calamities continued. R4768:2
Whose God is the LORD -- Whose God is Jehovah. We
need to correct our ideas and our theologies. R4768:5
Psalm 145
Psalm 145:5
I will speak of -- Meditate on. R2712:1

The glorious honour -- From the standpoint of the
average Christian, God is anything but gloriously honorable
in his majesty. R2712:3
Thy wondrous works -- The sentence of death upon our
race, the work of redemption through Christ, and the coming
Psalm 145:6
And men -- The world of mankind in general, not

appreciating his glorious character. R2712:1
Psalm 145:7
Abundantly utter -- Loudly proclaim. R2713:5

The memory -- The Memorial, the gift of God's dear Son.
R2713:5
Psalm 145:9
Is good to all -- The Lord's special care and compassion

are over the weak, helpless and bereaved ones. Q781:4
His tender mercies -- Kind providences, to be manifested
in due time. R1560:3
Over all his works -- His memory never fails, his
judgment never errs, his plans never miscarry, his vigilance
never ceases. R1560:2
In a certain sense God's providence attaches to every creature,
but saints are his peculiar care. R3219:2
Psalm 145:10
And thy saints -- All the Lord's saints during the harvest
time. R2714:6
Psalm 145:11
Of the glory -- Of the glorious salvation to be manifested

to the living and the dead. R2714:2-4
Of thy kingdom -- The Millennial Kingdom. R2714:2
Of thy power -- Which will bind Satan, punish sin, heal
the mental, moral and physical diseases of men, raise the
dead, lift all the obedient up to perfection. R2714:4
Psalm 145:13
Everlasting kingdom -- Man will have everlasting life, as

Adam had it, as long as obedient to God's will, which will be
forever, since they will have learned the evil effect of any
other way. R269:6
Psalm 145:15
Meat in due season -- Every feature of Present Truth sent

by God as "meat in due season" for his saints is promptly
counterfeited to "deceive, if possible, the very elect." (Matt.
24:45, 24) R5800:5
Psalm 145:17
And holy -- He could not be holy in all of his works if he

were the author of sin and crime. R1351:4*
Psalm 145:19
Them that fear him -- Perfect love casts out slavish fear,
but increases reverential fear. R2986:6, R2289:5
Psalm 145:20
The LORD preserveth -- God will eventually bring a

blessing out of evils to those not in sympathy with them; but
the evils themselves, and the wicked, he will destroy.
R3145:4*
To all eternity. OV439:3*
Them that love him -- During the Gospel age divine
blessings are conferred upon the Church. R3658:5
But all the wicked -- Satan and all who intentionally
oppose God. E392; R4811:6, R5839:4, R769:4
Of the Sodomites and the antediluvians God made
illustrations of the great lesson that all who refuse the rule of
righteousness will be esteemed "wicked." R5179:1,
R5167:6; SM502:2; CR113:4
The intelligently wicked. R5839:1
Not the ignorant. R3083:2
The wilfully wicked and not the merely ignorant, misled,
blinded, or deceived. HG728:5
Whether they belong to the class that is now on trial or to the
class which will be on trial during Messiah's reign. R5408:2
All shall be awakened and brought to a full knowledge before
being sentenced as "wicked." But the wicked shall never see
life. R1106:6
God permits conditions which he disapproves, which he will
ultimately destroy. R5209:6
Will he destroy -- Not torment. F332; SM520:2,
SM153:2; CR498:4; R5238:3; OV439:3*; SM589:3
"The wicked shall perish." (Psa. 37:20) R2607:3
"Punished with everlasting destruction." (2 Thes. 1:9) E392
Ultimately, after full opportunity, every false teacher and
every wilful sinner will be destroyed. R4740:5, R5209:6,
R5340:2, R5694:2; SM87:1
Torment is unjust and unmerciful, but taking away life from
those who do not conform to New covenant regulations is
reasonable, just and merciful. R3083:5
God can both create a human soul and destroy one. OV34:1
He who gives us our existence has the power to deprive us of
it. R363:1
This is a righteous, just, penalty for those who refuse God's
favor and his righteous, reasonable, loving terms. Q219:T
Neither sin nor sinners can go beyond the Millennial age.
R765:4
There is no reason why those who will not make progress
should be allowed to live on indefinitely. R5167:5
He will not feed them and continue their lives everlastingly.
R1176:1
But the delay in execution until the little season will delude
some into thinking that it will not be enforced, as Eve was
deluded in Eden. R1234:5
Not in the present life where they, more often than the
righteous, flourish and prosper. R1383:5
Whoever will not have God's gift of eternal life through Jesus
Christ our Lord cannot have life at all. R2398:6
God will ultimately have a clean universe, free from the blight
of sin and sinners. R2607:3
It is right to destroy beasts, and it is right for God to destroy
those who will ultimately be like brute beasts in that they
would be injurious to others. Q225:T
Contrary to the teachings of Mormonism. HG731:4
But none will die the Second Death because of Adam's
transgression. SM589:3
"Fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body." (Matt.
10:28) CR498:4
There will be no forced obedience. The only force wilful
sinners will receive, after having full opportunity to know
God's will, is the force of destruction. R891:4
Psalm 146
Psalm 146:4
His thoughts perish -- Contrary to the teachings of

Spiritualism. R2170:2
"The dead know not anything." (Eccl. 9:5) R4792:1
There is no conscious existence after the breath leaves the
body. R802:3, R1881:5
His personality, the result of his hereditary and prenatal
influences, combined with his experiences, perishes, for it
cannot exist without a body. R5166:2
Whoever would believe the Scriptural doctrine of the
resurrection must also believe the Scriptural doctrine
respecting death--that death is death, the cessation of life.
R4791:6
Psalm 146:7
Looseth the prisoners -- Setting free the prisoners of sin

and death. OV387:5; A112
Psalm 146:9
Relieveth the fatherless -- The Lord's special care and

compassion are over the weak, helpless, and bereaved ones.
Q781:4
Psalm 147
Psalm 147:2
Outcasts of Israel -- Assembling to his standards the

outcasts of nominal spiritual Israel. (Isa. 66:5) R438:2
Psalm 147:4
The stars -- The Lord's bright ones. R438:2
Psalm 147:11
Them that fear him -- Earnestly watchful of every word

and act, trying to please the Lord, and copy his character.
R2289:6
Psalm 147:14
Finest of the wheat -- The wealth of our Father's

storehouse. R5538:3
It is necessary that the New Creature be fed upon it.
R5735:6
Psalm 148
Psalm 148:8
Stormy wind -- Ruach, invisible power. E174
Psalm 148:14
Exalteth the horn -- Horns are symbols of power. T42
Psalm 149
Psalm 149:5
Joyful in glory -- The time may come when part of the

saints will be in glory beyond the veil, and when those on this
side will
enter very fully into the joys and work of their Lord. R5451:1
It need not be on the other side, but on this side, of the veil.
Q387:1
Though we shall rule the world, it will be when we are in
glory. R233:5,* R35:6, R152:6
Upon their beds -- In the state of perfect rest. R82:3* ;
Q99:1
Representing creeds, or the sum total of one's religious belief.
R5804:2
Representing mental attitude and heart condition. R5804:4
This seems to imply that there is a special work to be done
while the saints still have "beds" on this side of the veil.
R5631:6, R5451:1; Q88:2
Signifying a rest of faith, applicable to this side of the veil,
beyond is not a rest of faith, but an absolute entering into rest.
R5451:2
We shall, of course, be at ease on the other side, but this
evidently means an ease of faith on this side of the veil.
Q387:1
Psalm 149:6
High praises of God -- The saints can praise God more

intelligently and fully now than ever before. R5804:4
Applicable to those on this side of the veil. R5631:6,
R5451:2; Q427:2
Two edged sword -- That sword is truth, and the living
saints and many of the world are now being used as the Lord's
soldiers in overthrowing errors and evils. B100, B101
The Word of God. R5631:6, R5804:4; Q88:2, Q99:1
The Word of God. That means here, for there will be no
smiting with a two-edged sword over there. Q387:1;
R5451:2
God's people have all the knowledge needful for the efficient
use of the sword at this time--to oppose everything opposed
to the truth. R5804:4; Q387:1
Psalm 149:7
Execute vengeance -- This would seem to imply that there

would be something for the saints on this side of the veil to do
in connection with the execution of the judgments upon the
nations. R5632:1
Implying that these saints will be in authority. This Psalm
describes the time when they are to do a judging work in
respect to the world in general, as well as in respect to Israel,
God's people. R5451:2
Upon the heathen -- The Gentiles, or nations. R5451:2;
Q427:2
Other Scriptures intimate that all nations, not only heathen,
but civilized, will be found in opposition to the heavenly
kingdom, and that all together will be crushed. SM442:1
And punishments -- To some extent at least we are
already engaging in the great work here depicted--in the
binding and fettering of error. R5804:5
The seven last plagues. R155:4-6*
Upon the people -- Of Israel. R5451:2
Psalm 149:8
To bind their kings -- To forcibly restrain them from

wrongdoing. D633
The new King (The Christ complete) will dethrone and bind
the former Prince of the power of the air and accomplish the
final overturning. R362:1
The binding or suppression of evil during the Millennial age
will result from the exercise of authority and power by our
Lord when he shall take unto himself his great power and
reign. (Rev. 11:17) R331:2
Whether we participate in this work on this side of the veil or
on the other side makes no difference to us. R5451:5
Illustrated by a sister's experience with a Baptist minister.
R5573:5
Apparently the Church now has no part whatever in the
binding of kings. Q125:5
Fetters of iron -- Because they will not surrender
peaceably. A261
Truth is surely accomplishing a work in binding and fettering
error. R5804:5
Psalm 149:9
To execute -- Should any commission be given to the

Lord's people to execute judgment this side of the veil, it
would be so explicit as to leave no room for doubt. R5451:4
Possibly some of the Lord's people on this side of the veil
might jointly engage in some work of judgment with others
on the other side. Q99:1
The judgment written -- All this belongs to this side of
the veil. These are the saints who are to execute the
judgments written. Q387:1
The river Jordan means a judgment, and the smiting of this
Jordan may mean to put the truth in such a way as to do the
judging. The Elijah will handle this sword. Q387:2
This honour --Has not come to us yet. Q427:2
Of a share in the establishment of the Kingdom and the
overthrow of Gentile power. D624
All his saints -- Would include those who are living in the
world when the judgments are executed, as well as the
resurrected saints. R5761:5
Proverbs
General
The book of Proverbs was probably the latest production
of Solomon, when not only the promised wisdom from above
but also an experience gained under very peculiar and varied
circumstances found expression in numerous concise and
pithy sayings for the guidance and instruction of all who
would live godly. R1517:5 The book of Proverbs is a poem,
the first nine chapters of which are a discourse on wisdom,
which is personified. The major part of the book consists of
the proverbs of Solomon, some of which chapters 25-29 --
were collected and added later by King Hezekiah. Chapters
30 and 31, however, do not claim Solomon for their author.
R1518:2
However well or illy Solomon followed his own teachings,
it is conceded by all that those teachings were sound wisdom
--as true today as when uttered. While Solomon's writings
may not be ranked exactly with the inspired prophecies of the
Scriptures, the fact that we are told that the Lord heard his
prayer for wisdom, and granted the request, together with the
fact that his writings were accepted as a part of the sacred
canon in our Lord's day, and not objected to by New
Testament writers, but on the contrary quoted from, is
sufficient guarantee to us that the wisdom of these Proverbs is
of a kind that cometh from above. R2388:1, R2053:2
Proverbs 1
Proverbs 1:1
Proverbs of Solomon -- Based on the promised wisdom

from above and on experiences gained under peculiar and
varied circumstances. R1517:5
Although he spoke 3000 Proverbs (1 Kings 4:32), they were
not all deemed of the Lord worthy of preservation as a portion
of the sacred Scriptures. R2053:4
Those who reverence the Lord he recognizes as sons. To
such the counsels of these Proverbs are addressed, while
warnings are given to others. R1518:5
Solomon was granted a supernatural wisdom that he might
prefigure Jesus, the "greater than Solomon." (Matt. 12:42)
R2053:2
Proverbs 1:2
Wisdom --Dealing with wisdom from the earthly

standpoint, not the heavenly wisdom, not spiritual
understanding. R2053:1
Solomon was granted a supernatural wisdom that he might
represent our Lord. R2053:2
Proverbs 1:5
A wise man will hear -- No matter how wise a man may

be, he still has opportunity to increase his wisdom, and a
teachable attitude and desire to know the truth are necessary.
R2053:3
Christians need to search the Scriptures daily that they might
more perfectly understand the divine plan. R2053:3
Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the LORD -- Solomon here quotes from one

of his father David's Psalms. (Psa. 111:10) R2053:3
Proper reverence for him, now so generally lacking. R2053:5
Allowing our minds to dwell upon the grandeur of God's
benevolent, loving and glorious character until a glimpse of
his glory awakens in us a feeling of admiration, veneration
and love. R1518:3
In the training of a child, every suggestion should take the
Lord into consideration. F554
Other fears are discountenanced among the Lord's people; the
fear of the Lord should be their only one. CR9:1
Of knowledge -- Knowledge from God is accompanied by
its equal of understanding and this is how we have become
established in the faith. If God gives us knowledge he also
gives us a test on that knowledge, and fortifies it with the
understanding thereof. R4093:2*
Fools despise wisdom -- As mankind awakens from the
superstition of the past they go to the opposite extreme of
doubt, skepticism, infidelity, irreverence for God and his
Word. R2053:5
Proverbs 1:8
My son -- Only those begotten of the truth and in covenant

with God. R1518:5
Of thy father -- God. R1518:5
True prosperity lies in obedience to parents, and in general,
learning from the experiences of those who have gone before.
R2053:6
Of thy mother -- The Abrahamic covenant, typified by
Sarah. R4019:5, R1518:5
Proverbs 1:9
Be an ornament -- Mark of honor and respect. R2053:6
Proverbs 1:10
If sinners -- Literally the brigands of Solomon's day, much

more common then than now. R2054:1
Figuratively the trusts and monopolies (including labor trusts)
of our day. R1518:5, R2054:1
Proverbs 1:11
Come with us -- Join our union or trust. R1518:6

Lay wait for blood -- For opportunities to squeeze the life
out of those under our power--financially or otherwise kill
those opposed to us. R1518:6
Social brigandage, in passing laws that do violence to the
liberties and interests of others. R2054:4
Lurk privily -- Watch for opportunity to take advantage of
their ignorance of our movements. R1519:1
Robbing others by misrepresentation, swindling
advertisements, fraudulent deceptions, trickery, etc. R2054:1
For the innocent -- It is chiefly the innocent who suffer
most from such conspiracies. R1519:1
Proverbs 1:12
Let us -- This purports to be the language of murderers

who would destroy their victims quickly, and have them lost
from sight and from memory. E366
Swallow them up -- Completely destroy them as
competitors. R1519:1
As in an earthquake, as in Num. 16:30-33. R2600:2
Alive as the grave -- As sheol, oblivion, lost from sight
and memory. E366
Proverbs 1:13
With spoil -- Grow rich upon the loss and injuries of

others. R1519:1
Proverbs 1:14
All have one purse -- Let us put our money and skill
together so that we can control the markets and reap the
harvest. R1519:1
Proverbs 1:15
Walk not thou -- "My soul, come not thou into their
secret" scheming. (Gen. 49:6) CR351:4*
Proverbs 1:17
Sight of any bird Both Capital and Labor can see the
devices of each other. R1519:1
Proverbs 1:18
And they -- These conspirators. R1519:2

Their own blood -- Get caught in their own traps.
R1519:2, R2054:4
Proverbs 1:19
Greedy of gain -- "Then they that will (to) be rich fall into
temptation and a snare." (1 Tim. 6:9) R2054:4
The life -- The living. R1519:2
Proverbs 1:20
Wisdom -- The voice of righteousness and prudence, the

voice of God. R1519:2
Crieth without -- Never before were the obligations of
human brotherhood forced upon the attention of all men as
they are today. R1519:2
In the streets -- The "golden rule" is coming to the front,
even in the newspapers of our day. R1519:2
Proverbs 1:22
Love simplicity -- Prefer to remain in ignorance of the just

and right ways of the Lord. R1519:3
In their scorning -- Of justice and truth. R1519:3
Hate knowledge --The wisdom that cometh from above.
R1519:3
Proverbs 1:23
At my reproof -- But they will not turn, because they

"Imagine a vain thing," --they "set themselves together against
the Lord and against his anointed." (Psa. 2:2) R1519:3
I will pour out -- Make manifest. R1519:3
My spirit -- My disposition. R1519:3
My words unto you -- Notwithstanding the fact that they
hate such a knowledge. R1519:3
Proverbs 1:25
All my counsel -- As contained in my Word. R2241:1
Proverbs 1:26
I also will laugh -- "He that sitteth in the heavens shall

laugh; the Lord shall have them in derision." (Psa. 2:4)
R1519:4, R1079:5
At your calamity -- The culmination of the present (1893)
unrest will be a terrific whirlwind. R1519:4
Proverbs 1:28
I will not answer -- It will not avert the trouble for men to
call upon the Lord once it has begun. R1519:4
"God heareth not sinners." (John 9:31) R2024:1
Prayer privileges are restricted to those who, desiring to flee
from sin, come to a knowledge of the Savior and accept the
favor of God. R2024:1
Proverbs 1:30
None of my counsel -- Some reject the Word of the Lord

in toto; others, as truly rejectors, accept it nominally, but
never in the sense of putting it into practice in their daily
lives. R2241:1
Proverbs 1:31
Of their own way -- The whirlwind of trouble will be the

result of their own selfishness. R1519:4
Illustrated by the end of King Saul. R3240:5
And be filled -- To satisfaction. R1519:4
Proverbs 1:32
The turning away -- From the heavenly wisdom to the

earthly wisdom of selfishness. R1519:5
Shall slay them -- Incite the jealousy and hatred of the
masses and make them special objects of attack in the time of
trouble. R1519:5
Proverbs 1:33
Shall dwell safely -- "The Lord knoweth them that are

his." (2 Tim. 2:19) R1519:5
Proverbs 2
Proverbs 2:3
Liftest up thy voice -- Many who thus pray for knowledge

do not seek it as "hid treasure," and therefore do not find it.
R493:2*
Proverbs 2:4
If thou seekest her -- Webster says that "in Scripture

theology, wisdom is true religion," religion signifying "any
system of faith and worship." R179:1*
Those who are so anxious for truth as to be willing to
sacrifice other things to get it are the ones for whom God
prepared it. R367:1
Some would rather be always unsettled than go to the
necessary labor of "proving" by diligent study of the
Scriptures what is good and what is erroneous. Such
indifference will expose them to error. R651:6
Some, even amongst the Lord's friends, rebuke others for
their earnestness in seeking truth, instead of encouraging it.
R2730:4
As silver -- Why is the Bible not more plain? Why is gold
hid deep in the earth? It is a question of character. Desire,
will, energy, determination and faithfulness will be rewarded.
R24:4*
When found, silver has to be separated from materials, useful
in themselves, but detracting from the value of the silver. So
the child of God needs to "rightly divide the word of truth."
(2 Tim. 2:15) R179:5*
What was necessary for our fathers to know of truth is not
enough for us to know, any more than the supply of silver at
the discovery of America was sufficient for the world at the
present time. R179:4*
As for hid treasures -- Why hidden? That it may not be
found until needed. R179:2*
God has provided truth only for those who hunger and thirst
after it. Many are too indifferent or too engrossed with
money-getting and pleasure-seeking to dig for the truth.
R1832:4
Miners have lights upon their heads and sometimes prostrate
themselves in their search. We need to be humble and have
our minds illuminated with the spirit. R179:5*
If you would find it you must be ever on the lookout. If you
would see its beauty you must brush aside the weeds of error
and the brambles of bigotry. If you would possess it you
must stoop to get it. R9:1
Proverbs 2:5
Understand -- A duty to find out all Possible of God's

"system of faith." R179:2*
Find the knowledge -- The Lord will bless every real
truth-seeker. For such alone truth was written, to such alone
it will be revealed. R501:5
Proverbs 2:7
Sound wisdom -- Contrariwise, the spirit of devils

produces the spirit of an unsound mind. R2185:2
Proverbs 2:21
For the upright -- All who desire fellowship with God

through Christ during the Millennial age. E30
Dwell In the land -- Under the terms of the New covenant.
E30
Proverbs 2:22
But the wicked -- Who refuse the divine offer of

reconciliation. E30
Proverbs 3
Proverbs 3:1
My son -- "Wisdom is justified of her children." (Matt.

11:19) They show their parentage, reflect her likeness in
physical as well as spiritual things. R2060:2
Proverbs 3:2
For length of days -- Due to a wise and moderate course

in life, in obedience to the divine laws. R2060:2
Proverbs 3:3
Let not mercy -- Consideration for the failings and

sufferings of others. R2060:3
Mercy includes all the graces of character. R5309:5
And truth -- Sincerity, pureness and uprightness of dealing
in all our affairs. R2060:3
Truth and righteousness are synonymous. R5309:1
The qualities of truth and mercy are in the divine character.
R5309:3
About thy neck -- As jewels and ornaments of character,
manifest to all. R2060:3, R5309:2
It does not say to bind justice about our neck. Because there
is none righteous, our course in respect to justice cannot be
the same as that of our Heavenly Father. R5309:1
Write them -- Re-write them. R5309:5
The work of re--writing the divine character in the heart is
already begun in the Church, and will progress in the world
during the Millennium. R5309:5, R2060:3
Of thine heart -- In addition to the outward graces, deeply
graven inward principles. R2060:3
Originally, God wrote the divine law in Adam's heart.
R5309:3
Proverbs 3:4
And man -- Nobility of heart is acknowledged even by the

children of darkness who would say all manner of evil falsely
against the children of light. R2060:5
Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the LORD -- In order thus to trust, a knowledge

of God's Word and plan of salvation are very important.
R2060:5
Own understanding -- As do some scientists who seek to
find a theory by which a personal God will not be necessary.
R2834:3
Our own judgments are unsafe; liable to seek wisdom in a
wrong direction. R2262:3
Experience has taught the mature child of God the
imperfection of his own judgment and the fallibility of all
human counsel. R2060:5, CR498:5
Proverbs 3:6
In all thy ways -- The heart that is continually, in all of

life's affairs, looking for divine direction is continually in a
prayer attitude. No other condition is proper. R3806:1
Including giving thanks for meals. We advise the breaking
together of spiritual manna at the same time as the partaking
of earthly food. R4139:5
Acknowledge him -- Before becoming entangled in
multiplied cares, and thus hampered by the outcome of our
own misguided course. R1554:2
Exemplified by Joseph's distinctly telling the king that the
interpretations of the dreams came not from himself, but from
God. R5216:6
We are not only to note divine providences, but also to give
credit for them. R2894:1
Especially appropriate in the study of the divine Word and
any attempt to give an interpretation thereof. R3978:6
It is in vain that any would attempt to serve the Lord and yet
neglect to make request for his blessing and guidance.
R4911:3, R3806 :1
Cultivate such a sense of his presence that you learn to speak
to him, as well as of him, most freely and without
embarrassment. R590:2*
He shall -- The Lord is always faithful to those who put
their trust in him and look for his leading. R1538:5
Direct thy paths -- Not in ways most congenial to the
fallen nature. R2060:5
We should go forward only as he leads us. R5712:1
If we are not clear as to his will, let us not be in too great a
hurry, nor try to guide ourselves. R5712:1, R5807:5
Proverbs 3:7
In thine own eyes -- Nothing is more dangerous to the

child of God than self-conceit. "God resisteth the proud." (1
Pet. 5:5) R2060:6, R5186:1
Ambition is good, but only when it is based on humility.
R5186:2
Depart from evil -- The evil of our fallen estate. R2060:6
Proverbs 3:8
It shall be health -- The promises of God's Word may not

hinder pain, but will modify it and its frequency. R2083:6
"Health or vigor to thy muscles," figurative of general vitality
of mind and body among the results of that proper reverence
for the Lord which leads us to depart from sin in thought,
word and deed. R2060:6
Proverbs 3:9
With thy substance -- Whether it be talent, education or

influence. R2060:6
Proverbs 3:10
Filled with plenty -- This applied (in the material sense)

during the Jewish age and will apply again during the
Millennial age. "In his days shall the righteous flourish."
(Psa. 72:7) But does not apply during the Gospel age.
R2060:6
If faithful in the use of our substance to the cause of God, a
blessing will result to us. R2060:6
Proverbs 3:11
The chastening -- Reproofs, trials, disciplines should be

reminders to us that we are not perfect and still need the
mercy of God in Christ. R2061:1
Of his correction -- Do not consider the trials and
difficulties of this present time as marks of divine disfavor.
R2061:1
Proverbs 3:12
He correcteth -- God punishes for a wrong course, even

though he restores one to his favor. PD43/53
Given as an inspired comment in Heb. 12:4-13. R1520:1,
R1944:6
Proverbs 3:13
That findeth wisdom -- That attitude of heart and mind

which fits us to receive the instruction of the Lord and profit
by it. R1520:1
Perceives clearly the difference between right and wrong
principles, and the propriety of following these. R2061:1
Understanding --Of whatever truth is meat in due season
for them. R1520:1
The information and building up of judgment, character,
based upon obedience to the voice of wisdom. R2061:4
Proverbs 3:14
Merchandise of silver -- Truth. R2061:4

Fine gold -- The divine nature. R2061:4
Proverbs 3:15
Rubies -- Graces of character. R2061:4
Proverbs 3:18
A tree of life --A reference to the restitution to the trees of

life and the Edenic bliss of all who shall "lay hold upon" and
"retain" that heavenly wisdom of meekness and entire
submission to the will of God. R1520:4
Lay hold upon -- Retain her. R1520:4
Proverbs 3:19
By wisdom -- Pure, peaceable, merciful and kind.

R1520:4
This accounts for the beneficent laws of nature so bountifully
adapted to our necessities. R1520:4
Proverbs 3:21
And discretion -- Wise policy. R1520:4

Proverbs 3:23
Shall not stumble -- The Lord will keep the feet of his
people from being caught in the snares of the Adversary.
R1520:4
Proverbs 3:27
Withhold not good -- This counsels fair dealing with our

fellow-men. R1520:4
Power --Hebrew. El; signifying strong or powerful,
frequently translated "god." R296:2
Proverbs 3:34
Scorneth the scorners -- The self-seeking, the proud in

spirit, cannot be entrusted by the Lord to a high position.
R5414:6
The lowly -- In conduct; but particularly, in mind.
R2450:5
Proverbs 3:35
Shall inherit glory -- Counsels patient waiting for the

rewards of righteousness. R1520:5
Proverbs 4
Proverbs 4:1
Instruction of a father -- It were well for the youth of the

world if their fathers more frequently communed with them
and gave them the benefit of their experiences in life.
R2388:2
Instruction, reproof, guidance and counsel of children should
not be left to others--to the church minister, Sunday School
teachers or to mothers. R2388:2
Proverbs 4:7
Wisdom -- "The wisdom that is from above." (Jas. 3:17)

R3479:5, R3603:3
Wise toward God, whatever fellow-men may consider us.
R3479:5
Heavenly counsel is the essence of wisdom. R3479:5
The principal thing -- However weak or strong, wisdom is
the prime essential to our taking the proper course. F97
Proverbs 4:10
Years of thy life -- Parental counsel may save a child from

many difficulties in life and from much sickness, leading to a
longer life. R2388:5
Shall be many -- In giving lessons to a child, a parent may
profit by and review his own experiences and their causes,
and add to his own years as well as to those of his child.
R2388:5
New Creatures in Christ, here called sons, are promised that,
by heeding his Word, the years of their life shall be many--very many--
everlasting. R2388:6
Proverbs 4:11
I have led thee -- By my example. This thought may be

applied to the Heavenly Father as well as to an earthly.
R2388:5
Proverbs 4:12
When thou goest -- In the spiritual way, the narrow path.

R2388:6
When thou runnest -- The race for the great prize of their
high calling. R2388:6
Thou shalt not stumble -- So long as they follow in that
path in which the Lord's providences guide them. R2388:6
Proverbs 4:13
Take fast hold -- "Lest at any time we should let them

slip." (Heb. 2:1) R2389:1
Not only to hear the Lord's Word, but to act upon it,
incorporate it as a very part of our being. R2389:1
Proverbs 4:14
Not into the path -- Of self-will, pride, worldly ambition,

selfishness. R2389:1
Go not -- Once entered, we may be able to retrace our steps
with difficulty, but the safe program is never to enter these
by--paths. R2389:2
The way of evil -- Emerging so gradually from the "narrow
way" as to seem little different from it, but diverging more
and more so that one may soon discern the change. R2389:2
Proverbs 4:15
Avoid it -- Do not permit curiosity or fearlessness to entrap

you as it did Mother Eve. (2Cor. 11:3) R2389:2
Pass not by it -- Do not put yourself within reach of its
influence. R2389:2
Turn from it -- Any pathway that has the slightest
appearance of evil or the slightest antagonism to the spirit of
our law of love. R2389:4
Proverbs 4:17
Bread of wickedness -- There are people who make it their

business in life to entrap the unwary; they earn their bread in
that way. R2389:4
Others delight in sowing discord ... and mislead the spiritual
sons of God. R2389:4
Proverbs 4:18
But the path -- "Thy word is a light unto my path." (Psa.

119:105) A20
"The path of righteousness." (Psa. 23:3) R1646:5
This passage is true of every one of the Lord's children
individually, but the application is specially for the entire
Church as a whole. R2389:5, R1646:5; A20,21
Of the just -- The justified children of God, but especially
the members of the body of Christ, the just One. R2389:5
"Light (truth) is sown for the righteous" (Psa. 97:11) ... those
with faith and consequent justification. A20
"Ye, brethren, are not in darkness." (1 Thes. 5:4) R2389:6
The shining light --Its bright shining at the present time
betokens that the new day, the new era of Messiah's
Kingdom, is nigh. R4851:5
"God (the spirit of God, the spirit of truth) hath shined into
our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of
God. (2 Cor. 4:6) E293
Through the words of the Lord and the words of the apostles.
F61
That shineth -- With the knowledge of God. R493:1
More and more -- More and more clearly lit by the lamp,
God's Word. R2389:6, R5569:1; PD41/52; Q554:4
It is our responsibility to step out from all the creeds and not
support hypocrisy and error. R5851:6, R1312:2, R780:2
We are still in the dark place and shall be until the darkness
gives way and the day is here. We have need of the Word of
prophecy "until the day dawn." (2 Pet. 1:19) R5339:2
With the coming of many inventions, we also find fresh light
shining upon the Bible. CR250:2
The difficulty with many is that they sit down and do not
follow on in the path of light. A25
The Bible was not written for one man, nor for one age; but
for all men and all ages, adapted to the circumstances as
"meat in due season." (Matt. 24:45) R24:5*
If our presentations (specifically, on the covenants) are read
in their proper connections, they will be found to be
harmoniously progressive. R4334:5
The Reformation movement and the close of the 2300 days
(Dan. 8:14) found us free from certain falsities; but this did
not mean that all the precious truths were properly located.
R4534:6
Followers of the reformers have accepted creeds formulated
in that period and consider it unorthodox to make any further
progress. D60, D61
Unto -- The same Bible which accomplished the
Reformation work is necessary to the Christian's growth and
knowledge today. R183:5
The perfect day -- When it comes, men will not need the
lamp, for then there will be sunlight; the knowledge of God
will fill the earth. R5055:3
We are now in the beginning of that perfect day. SM555:1;
R1646:6
The dawning light of a new age shows us God's character of
love and illuminates the Bible, making its teachings more
reasonable. PD41/52
Since we have not yet reached the perfect day we cannot
know how much more brightly our lamp may shine in the
future. R2389:6; A21
Proverbs 4:19
Way of the wicked -- "None of the wicked shall

understand." (Dan. 12:10) R2390:4
The Bible sheds no particular brilliancy upon the world's
pathway. R2389:6
At what they stumble -- The Christian world stumbles
over the second presence of Christ. He is a "stumbling stone"
and "rock of offence." (1 Pet. 2:8) R2390:1
The present social order of Christendom is to stumble and be
wrecked in the time of anarchy. R2390:1
They stumble at the light, the very thing that should be a
blessing to them. R4361:2*
Proverbs 4:22
Health to all their flesh -- Pure, noble, holy thoughts not

only elevate the mental and moral constitution, but also have
an invigorating influence upon the physical system. R2014:6
Proverbs 4:23
Keep thy heart -- Mind, affections. R2249:4, R4904:5,

R5746:6
Our will, our intention, our desire, our effort. R5747:3,
R4827:2, R5246:2, R5247:1; CR109:6; R1703:3
As the natural heart is the center of life, it is used as a symbol
of the center of our affections, including the will. R5246:2,
R5746:6, R1562:6
Kept fully in the love of God. (Jude 2) R1563:4
Signifies keeping guard over our sentiments, a critical
inspection of every motive of life. R4345:2, R4639:5,
R5747:1
The Christian's new heart is to be kept loyal to God, to the
principles of righteousness, to his covenant. R5747:4
Though but few take the step of entire consecration to God's
will, fewer live it out practically, keeping their hearts
constantly submissive to the Lord's will. R1563:4
By communion with God in prayer, and through the Word of
truth, our hearts are kept in the love and service of God.
R1502:2
Also means activities in love and helpfulness, and the
cultivation of thoughts in accord with the divine. R4345:3
The difficulty with many is that they look for some great
battle, instead of averting the great battles by keeping their
minds cleansed from secret faults. R4904:6
If the Divine Plan of the Ages does not satisfy our heart's
longings there is something wrong with our hearts. CR54:3
See comments on Proverbs 23:7.
With all diligence -- You cannot be too diligent about it.
CRI09:6
If we do not keep our hearts, some ambitious desire will creep
in. CR56:4; R4462:2
We are not competent to keep our heads, but we are
competent and responsible for keeping our hearts. R4345:2
If our hearts are loyal, God is able to keep our poor heads.
R4535:6
Margin, "Above all keeping, keep thy heart." R4249:1*
If we are to be victors, it must be by constant vigilance, which
the Lord will bless. CR56:4
We must not only acknowledge sin and strive against it, but
also root out of our hearts every longing for everything not
thoroughly approved by the Lord. R4904:4
Injustice sometimes becomes entrenched in human minds so
that an attempt to establish righteousness is considered
treason and rebellion. R4777:5
The "Vow" has assisted many in exercising diligence in
keeping their hearts in the love of God. R4299:2
Out of it -- If your heart is your garden, what you plant is
what you will grow there, if you keep the weeds away.
CR56:4
If the heart is right, the actions will regulate themselves
accordingly. R1502:2
If the principles of truth and righteousness be fixed in the
heart, then out of the good treasures of the heart the mouth
will speak words of truth, soberness, wisdom and grace.
R1937:2
Issues of life -- Results of life. R5747:5
The testings are along the line of fitness for life eternal or
death eternal. R4462:2, R4345:3, R4639:4, R4904:2,
R5747:5, R4293:6; CR109:6, CR55:4
If Mother Eve had kept her heart she would have had the right to the tree
of life; but failing, she came under the sentence of death. CR55:3
It is highly important that all our conduct in life be under the direction
of a pure heart. R5747:2, R5246:3
If the heart is kept strictly under control in harmony with the Lord and his
Word, all opposition of the world, flesh and devil shall not be able to
overcome us. R2280:5
Pure thoughts have an invigorating influence upon the physical system,
while unholy thoughts tend toward the germination of the seeds of disease
already in the human race. R2014:6
Proverbs 4:24
A froward mouth -- The words are an index of the heart. R1937:1

Proverbs 5
Proverbs 5:5
Take hold on hell -- Lead to sheol, oblivion, death, the grave. E367;
R2599:4
Proverbs 5:21
All his goings -- The Judge is taking minute cognizance of man's

actions and words. R722:2, R2613:1
"Every idle (pernicious, injurious or malicious) word that men shall speak,
they shall give account thereof." (Matt. 12:36) R722:2, R2613:1
Proverbs 6
Proverbs 6:1
If thou be surety -- By endorsing notes or going on a bond, contrary to

the instruction of the Lord's Word. R2668:6: F568
Proverbs 6:6
Consider her ways -- "Parents ought to lay up for their children." (2

Cor. 12:14) F577
And be wise -- Follow her custom of laying up provision in advance of
necessity. R2488:2
Proverbs 6:8
Provideth her meat -- Probably fewer need advice along this line than
need advice against the opposite extreme. F577
Proverbs 6:16
These six things -- Elements of character in direct opposition to

humility. R3537:3
Proverbs 6:23
The law is light -- On "the feast of joy for the Law" (Feast of
Tabernacles) the Jews took all the books of the Law out of the chest and
put a candle into it in allusion to this verse. R2439:1*
Ultimately the Jewish Law was superseded by the true light--the gospel of
the grace of God in Jesus Christ. R2439:1
Proverbs 6:30
To satisfy his soul -- Being, person. R205:1, R276:3
Proverbs 6:34
Day of vengeance -- Transition period following the Gospel age.

R247:5
Designed to punish evil-doers and prepare the world for the blessed reign
of righteousness. R247:5
Proverbs 7
Proverbs 7:3
Write them -- Storing the memory with heavenly "food," a verse a day,
or week, should not be neglected. R2039:1
Of thine heart -- Not only our heads. R2093:6
Implying the study of ourselves as well as of the divine Word that we may
know just what portions of the Word apply to our individual present
necessities. R2094:1*
Proverbs 7:27
Is the way to hell -- The path to sheol, oblivion, death. E367; R2599:4,
R828:6
Proverbs 8
Proverbs 8:11
Better than rubies -- If the Queen of Sheba traveled such a long

distance to know about the wisdom of God which Solomon possessed, how
much more should the "greater than Solomon" be sought. (Matt. 12:42)
R5722:5
Proverbs 8:14
Counsel is mine -- Christ's, as the personification of wisdom. D637
Proverbs 8:15
By me kings reign -- Israel's government was that of a republic under

divine autocracy and law supervision. R4192:3
Decree justice -- The prospect of a righteous, just, unshakable
Kingdom. R3053:4
Proverbs 8:16
All the judges -- The earthly phase of the Kingdom. D637
Proverbs 8:17
I love them -- This is said of wisdom, but God is the personification of

wisdom; and also Christ is wisdom-- "he is made unto us wisdom." (1Cor.
1:30) R4269:6
That seek me early -- "Train up a child in the way he should go."
(Prov. 22:6) R3711:5
The child-mind is peculiarly susceptible to the truth and its spirit--
the spirit of consecration. R4270:1
A child, reasonably well-born and raised under the influences of a
Christian home, would very generally, at the age of 12, be ready to make a
consecration of himself to the Lord. R3711:5, R 4270:4
Every home should have its Sunday School class and every Sunday its
quiet, sacred hour of fellowship, communion and praise--for parents and
children. R4270:1
See comments on Proverbs 22:6.
Proverbs 8:22
LORD possessed me -- Jehovah possessed the Logos--wisdom

personified. E93; R1059:6, R446:1; SM491:3
Proverbs 8:23
From everlasting -- As one of the divine attributes, wisdom existed

even before our Lord Jesus; though it is not strange that some infer that
wisdom here personifies Christ. R1518:2
Ever the earth was -- Was formed. E93
This passage, to verse 25, may be viewed as a prophecy of what our Lord
understood of his previous condition. R5065:3
Proverbs 8:24
Were no depths -- No seas. E93

Brought forth -- Had Jesus been on an equality with God before, how
could he have been highly exalted after. R803:1*
Proverbs 8:30
Brought up with him -- For centuries before coming to earth the Son
had seen the Father's mighty works, marked his wondrous wisdom and
experienced his tender love, having the plan revealed to him step by step.
R3160:3
While he joyfully worked out the great plan of creation, Jesus probably
knew nothing of God's purpose for the subsequent permission of evil.
R3160:3
Showing not only his intimate acquaintance with Jehovah and knowledge
of his plans, but exhibiting him as the honored agent in their
accomplishment. R1059:6, R446:2*
Proverbs 8:32
Blessed are they -- God is "a rewarder of them that diligently seek
him." (Heb. 11:6) R4072:5
Proverbs 8:36
Love death Let them make "a covenant with death" (Isa. 28:25) who
hate wisdom; but we abhor death and seek for life through the life-giver,
the Lord Jesus Christ. R625:6*
Proverbs 9
Proverbs 9:1
Hath builded -- Diligently to seek and come to God and form a

character like his is to build this house of wisdom. R137:1*
Seven pillars -- Faith is fundamental, and the seven graces of
2 Pet. 1:5-7 are as the house that wisdom builds upon it. R136:6*
Not only for beauty, but for strength. R136:6*
Proverbs 9:8
Lest he hate thee -- "Cast not your pearls before swine, lest they
trample them under feet and turn again and rend you." (Matt. 7:6)
R2589:2
Proverbs 9:10
Fear of the LORD -- A proper respect for the Lord and his divine
appointments. R4290:3
First, an appreciation of his greatness and our own insignificance; then,
respect and love for his graciousness. This kind of fear casts out dread.
R4796:3
We must look away from our own narrow thoughts and plans, and allow
our mind to dwell on the grandeur of God's character. Thus the divine
likeness is traced on our hearts as we study the divine revelation. R1518:3
Reverence of Jehovah. D639; R4796:3, R4841:1
"If any man (Christian) lack wisdom, let him ask of God, who giveth
liberally." (Jas. 1:5) R5714:6
This must continue in us. and increase as the years go by. R4486:3;
CR40:1
It is a dangerous practice to speak jestingly of the Lord and the Scriptures.
R4486:3
Beginning of wisdom -- Thus, King Solomon began his reign with a
reverent heart, as evidenced by his offering sacrifices at Gibeon. (1 Kings
3:3,4) R4290:6
We, too, have turned aside from service for a time to offer sacrifices to the
Lord--our justified self, our will, our time, our influence, our talents.
R4292:1
Manifesting itself in the peaceable fruits of righteousness. R1518:3
This fear of the Lord increases as the child of God comes to know his
Maker, but it is a gradual process. R4841:2
The educational reforms and instructions of the future will begin with the
hearts of men, starting with this lesson so lacking in present-day education,
which leads to pride, arrogance and discontent. D639
Proverbs 9:16
Turn in hither -- Into the way of oblivion, not only in the physical
sense, but also in the sense of losing their respect and influence amongst
men. E367
Proverbs 9:18
Her guests -- Dead or dying from diseases due to sensuality, which also
hurry off their posterity to the tomb. R2599:4
The depths of hell -- Sheol, oblivion, having lost the dignity of
manhood. E367
Proverbs 10
Proverbs 10:7
Name -- Position of official relationship is meant where the word

"name" is used. R48:2*
Wicked shall rot -- Shall utterly pass from the memory of all forever.
OV439:3*
Proverbs 10:12
Love covereth all sins -- The disposition that exposes the imperfections
of the brethren is surely not the love that covers. R5530:4
Proverbs 10:22
Blessing of the LORD -- Hidden in Christ, "in whom are hid all the
treasures of wisdom and knowledge." (Col. 2:3) R2762:5
Jesus tenders to us, first, earthly rights and blessings, on the condition that
we agree to sacrifice them, thus being accounted worthy to share with him
in heavenly glory. R4463:6
In the Gospel age God does not promise earthly blessings, nor immunity
from sickness, pain and persecution. R2761:1
Greater happiness accompanies a devoted life, though spent in poverty,
than does any other course, surrounded by every luxury. R4091:3
Few who possess earthly riches in advance of hearing of the truth, are
likely to attain the high calling. R2761:2
It maketh rich -- Not with the counterfeit riches of Laodicea--material
prosperity and numbers of wealthy people. R2763:1
Regardless of the amount of the world's goods which one possesses.
R5171:1
"He was rich, yet for our sakes became poor that we through his poverty
might be made rich." (2 Cor. 8:9) R2761:4
We may have even now a foretaste of the riches of his grace and the
treasures of wisdom and knowledge; also the riches of the holy Spirit.
R2762:4
In noble sentiments, faith, love, good works, and God's blessing and
providential care. R2762:6, R5171:4
Spiritual privileges and hopes in the present life, and spiritual glory and
immortality in the life to come. R5170:3, R5171:1, R2762:6, R4463:1;
CR57:6
The blessing of the Lord has not made rich the world, but will do so in
God's due time. R4463:1, R5171:4; CR57:3
Addeth no sorrow -- Though those who live godly will suffer
persecution (2 Tim. 3:12), these are not of the Lord, though permitted by
him. R4463:2
Sorrows are not of the Lord's providing or adding, but come as a result of
sin and imperfection. R4463:2; CR57:6
Earthly riches of money and fame are subject to change and decay, and the
heart which is too centered in these may be plunged into an abyss of
sorrow and disappointment. R5862:1, R1820:2
Proverbs 10:29
But destruction -- Contrary to the Universalist theory. R3083:3
Proverbs 11
Proverbs 11:1
A false balance -- This balancing applies as truly to mental as to

physical dealings with others. R4514:6
A just weight -- Not only by squaring every act and word with strictest
justice, but bringing "every thought into subjection to the will of God." (2
Cor. 10:5) R4514:6
Proverbs 11:13
A faithful spirit -- Ruach, disposition, mind. E318

Proverbs 11:15
He that is surety -- by endorsing notes or going on a bond. F568
Proverbs 11:18
A sure reward -- Future rewards. R723:4, R 2613:6
Proverbs 11:20
His delight -- Since we were created for the divine pleasure (Rev. 4:11),
being responsive to God's goodness institutes a lively and delightful
fellowship with him. R2031:3
Proverbs 11:21
Hand join in hand -- The tendency to unity is an artificial one and

efforts in that direction are made for policy's sake. R1548:4
If the world's multitudes say, Come, join our fraternity and band together
with us to fight for our rights, the upright will say No! R1875:5
Saying, "in union there is strength." R1548:4
Not be unpunished -- But the wrath of God is always just and tempered
with mercy. R2613:2
Seed of the righteous -- We should train our children that, when the
trouble comes, they will counsel others to righteousness and the avoidance
of carnal warfare. R1963:6
Shall be delivered -- Unless they need the purging, the Lord will permit
the glorified Church to care for their children during the great time of
trouble. R1963:5
Proverbs 11:24
That scattereth -- By hospitality and liberality. R2856:6

Christlikeness implies not only a desire to be helpful to the groaning
creation, but the effort to assist them, even at the cost of earthly comforts.
R2857:1
There will always be opportunities to spend this world's goods for spiritual
food for the famishing ones fleeing out of Babylon. R1593:5
Though bringing forth fruit only in good hearts, we are yet preaching the
good tidings to all willing to hear. R1023:6
One-day and general conventions are not a waste of money that could have
been used otherwise. R3877:6, R3856:2
And yet increaseth -- As we give out to others our own store of
blessing is increased. R5720:5
Sometimes in natural things; always in spiritual. F344
That withholdeth -- As the neglect of tithes by Israel led to empty
granaries and lean flocks, our neglect to render our all in full consecration
results in loss to us. R2485:6, R2486:5
In the case of the house of sons, not merely one tenth, but everything is
consecrated, and all is to be used as opportunity indicates. F345
More than is meet -- The degree of our prosperity should be the
measure of our charity. R5927:4, R2857:1
If one has kept anything back he did not make a full consecration, and may
be sure he has not been fully accepted by the Lord. F345
Those who have not the love that leads them to respond with gratitude
have not the condition of heart which the Lord loves. R2500:5
The Lord's followers are to be prudent, economical; but not miserly, stingy,
penurious. R3877:6, R3504:2; F344
Tendeth to poverty -- Sometimes to financial; always to spiritual.
F344
Poverty of soul as well as poverty of purse. R3877:5
It is not always those who fight most strenuously for their rights who fare
the best, even in this world. R3738:4
Cases of absolute privation may mean that one, when possessed of means,
failed to use a portion in charity, in the Lord's service. R5927:3
Proverbs 11:25
Liberal soul -- Generous--not merely in earthly matters, but especially

in their hearts, minds and thoughts--benevolent and kindly. R3939:3
Like Christ, desirous of sharing temporal or spiritual favors with others,
particularly with the "household of faith." R2212:5
The congregations of Macedonia did not stop with money, but gave
themselves in service to God's cause, thus receiving great spiritual
blessings. R1594:1
In practicing liberality we are developing Godlikeness. R2857:1, R5927:2
Spending for the spiritual welfare of themselves and others. R3856:2
Made fat -- Spiritually. R1594:4
We learn from the "widow's mite" that the Lord measures not the amount
but the spirit prompting the gift, granting spiritual "fatness" accordingly.
R5927:3
"He that soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully." (2Cor. 9:6)
R2212:1
He that watereth -- In telling the message of his grace we shall grow
spiritually ourselves. R4244:2, R5720:3, R5978:4
Those most active in serving the truth to others are amongst the most
blessed. R4244:2
To the extent we exercise a spirit of benevolence in giving, like our
Heavenly Father, we are likely to have a special blessing. R5409:4,
R3377:6
Great blessing results from liberality in the Lord's cause. R5927:2
Proverbs 11:28
Righteous shall flourish -- During the Millennium the Prince of Life

will use only the pure, holy, reverent and godly. OV91:1
Proverbs 11:30
Tree of life -- A righteous life, of whose virtue others may partake and
live. R1520:5
Winneth souls -- Whose wise and righteous course in life becomes an
incentive to righteousness in others. R1520:5
Away from the path of sin and ungodliness; to righteousness, peace, faith
and trust in God. R1520:5
Proverbs 11:31
In the earth -- The Bible purgatory will be established in the earth.

R1469:4
Much more -- "If the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the
ungodly and the sinner appear." (1 Pet. 4:18) R2053:2
Proverbs 12
Proverbs 12:2
A good man -- Let each ask himself, Are the purposes of my heart all
pure and upright? R1520:2
Obtaineth favour -- A constant sense of the Lord's favor. R1520:2
Proverbs 12:3
Shall not be moved -- Because rooted and grounded in the principles of

Proverbs 12:5
Are right -- They stray not into forbidden paths. R1520:2

Proverbs 12:6
Words of the wicked -- Perverse doctrines to overthrow the faith of the

righteous. R1520:2
Mouth of the upright -- Ever ready to defend the righteous against the
snares of the wicked. R1520:2
Proverbs 12:9
And hath a servant -- Laboreth for himself. R1520:5

Honoureth himself -- Aimeth after honor. R1520:5
Proverbs 12:10
Regardeth . . . beast -- Extends his tender mercies also to the lower

creation. R1520:5
Proverbs 12:11
Tilleth his land -- The true child of God is no idler or visionary

dreamer. R1520:5
Proverbs 12:14
The recompence -- Every act will meet its just deserts in due time.
R1520:5
Proverbs 12:15
In his own eyes -- Whoever succeeds in justifying himself in a wrong

course finds the downward path easy and retracing his steps almost
impossible. R1520:5
Proverbs 12:20
Of peace -- "God has called us to peace." (1 Cor. 7:15) R2946:3

Is joy -- "He that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God and
approved of men." (Rom. 14:18) R2947:4
Proverbs 12:22
Lying lips -- Hypocrisy is deceit in action and to deceive another is

lying in one of its most unworthy forms. R4318:6
That deal truly -- The principle of truth is honesty--in our words,
conduct and thoughts. R4318:5
If we must charge Jacob in securing the birthright with lying lips we can at
least credit him with honesty of heart. He lied to secure justice, and
because his faith was not strong enough to trust the Lord implicitly.
R3955:5
We should have even more faith: that the Lord will deal truly, to give us
the blessings he has promised. R3955:6
Proverbs 13
Proverbs 13:3
Keepeth his mouth -- All our words are taken by the Lord as an index
of our hearts. R1938:1
Shall have destruction -- What a fearful responsibility attaches to the
tongue that wags in an evil or flippant way, dishonoring God. R1938:1
"By thy words thou wilt be acquitted, and by thy words thou wilt be
condemned." (Matt. 12:37) R1937:1
Proverbs 13:12
The heart sick -- To those who do not exercise proper faith, the trials
by the way and the disappointments are most discouraging. R4048:1
Proverbs 13:15
Is hard -- Though following the line of least resistance seems easiest,

this is only a vain delusion. Q800:4
Proverbs 13:20
With wise men -- In every enterprise of life we should seek counsel--the

wisdom that cometh from above that is "first pure, then peaceable, easy to
entreatment and full of mercy and good fruits." (Jas. 3:17) R4723:4
Proverbs 13:24
That spareth his rod -- Neglects to use it when necessary to enforce the
rules of love. F524
The homes of the New Creatures should be ruled by love, not the rod.
When used, the rod should be wielded by the hand of love, never by the
hand of anger. F524
The rod of discipline may be in the form of the denial of a kiss, or the
withholding of supper or some other comfort or luxury. F525
"Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me." (Psa. 23:4) Q54:4
Proverbs 14
Proverbs 14:6
Findeth it not -- "God resisteth the proud" (Jas. 4:6); does not reveal
his plan to such. R3337:2
Easy unto him -- In coming to God's Word it is always important to
remember that our attitude should be that of the disciple and not of the
teacher. R3337:1
Proverbs 14:8
Fools -- Teachers of Evolution. OV86:3
Proverbs 14:10
Knoweth his own -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being. E334
Proverbs 14:12
There is a way -- "The broad way that leadeth to destruction." (Matt.

7:13, 14) CR496:4.
The way of selfishness, the way of the world. SM162:2, SM156:1
Human judgment would be unreliable even if supported by absolute
knowledge. R3241:1
The way of selfishness, which has prevailed for 6,000 years; the natural
way, approved by the standards of the world for centuries. SM162:2
Trusting to an outward form of godliness, being religious as a mark of
respectability, attending the house of God because it is fashionable.
R5849:5*
The gospel of Satan, tacitly acknowledging the great doctrines of
Christianity, but with erroneous interpretation and application. R5849:1*
The Jews, although they thought they had found way to life in the Law,
found it to be a way to death. CR500:5
Which seemeth right -- Because all of Adam's children have been
"born in sin and shapen in iniquity." (Psa. 51:5) CR496:2
Reasoning, "Life is to be enjoyed" and it is their duty to enjoy it. CR500:6
The ways of the world are those which they think right. CR496:1,
CR500:1
The world has been trying, and trying hard, to see what they can do in the
way of bringing in a good government. CR502:2
Difficult to discern, because long-cultivated sentiments sway our judgment.
R1656:4
Presented in such plausible language that it appeals to the emotions; and in
such a subtle manner that it commends itself to the intelligence. R5849:1*
If the heart be wrong the head will seek to justify it, and in so doing will
pervert judgment and truth. R2038:2
We do not know how to do our own thinking. We must do what the Lord
tells us to do through his Word. CR496:5
Unto a man -- Because blinded by his own perverse will or fleshly
mind. R2038:2
The end thereof -- Where the subject of delusion is of vital interest.
R2274:3
Many, for a time beguiled into an error of doctrine or practice, may yet be
recovered from the snare of the Adversary. R1239:6
The ways of death -- The Second Death. SM165:T; R5849:5*
Proverbs 14:34
Exalteth a nation -- Even though the kingdoms of this world are not the
kingdom of the Lord, this principle prevails. R3399:5
Mankind will learn this when the Prince of Life has put in force the laws of
righteousness and equity with an iron rule. A303; R726:1
History confirms that even now in proportion as a nation conforms to
principles of righteousness and justice, it is exalted. R3399:5
We may well be astonished to see to what extent the influence of the
righteous exercises a preservative influence upon the nations. R3399:5
Nevertheless, it is still true that prosperity is injurious in proportion as
it separates the people from the divine arrangements. R4729:6
But sin is a reproach -- Every evil course seems to be the misdirection
of a good quality, as the war spirit of combativeness and destructiveness.
R2641:3
Sin is constitutional derangement requiring continual effort to not slide
backward. Thus, some heathen, not helped by the Lord, reached the lower
depths of degradation. R3598:6
God will eventually bring home to each member of our race valuable
lessons along this line. R5233:5
Proverbs 15
Proverbs 15:1
A soft answer -- A kind and gentle answer may be helpful; turn away
anger. R4009:4
Not only as good policy, but as the fruitage of the holy Spirit. R2325:4
The harder the truth, the more softly it should be spoken. R2325:4
This advice is nowhere more needed than in most home circles. R2325:5
Any other answer is incompatible with the spirit of love. R2325:4
Turneth away wrath -- Neglect of this command is the cause of a large
proportion of domestic infelicity. R2241:3
Grievous words -- Strifeful, cutting, sarcastic words. R4009:4
Stir up anger -- Stirring up difficulties which will become agents of
retributive justice. R4805:3, R1938:3
Proverbs 15:3
Eyes of the LORD -- The intelligence of Jehovah. R5209:3

The Lord's influence, his power of knowing, whatever the means; not that
God beholds every act of every person. R5634:2
In every place -- The nearest suggestion of God's omnipresence
contained in the Scriptures. R5209:3
Every man has a present responsibility according to the measure of light
enjoyed, whether it be light of nature or of revelation. A145
So we should let our children feel that our eye and God's is ever upon them,
just as we feel that God's eye is upon us. R1097:5*
Beholding -- Supervising all things. R1778:6
Evil and the good -- "God shall bring every work into judgment with
every secret thing, whether it be good or whether it be evil." (Eccl. 12:14)
R722:2, R1653:3, R2612:6; A145
God's knowledge of all conditions is not out of harmony with the fact that
he permits things which he disapproves. R5209:6
Since the Lord's beholding of evil and good is unquestioned; since his
ability to interfere is undoubtedly true; and that he has not yet interfered
is manifest; then it is proper to say that God is permitting sin. R1778:6,
R1270:3
Proverbs 15:8
His delight -- Since we were created for the divine pleasure (Rev.
4:11), being responsive to God's goodness institutes a lively and delightful
fellowship with him. R2031:3
Proverbs 15:11
Hell -- Sheol, oblivion, death, not torment. R2599:4; E367
Proverbs 15:23
Spoken In due season -- Perhaps a word of counsel, a word of reproof,

or a word of instruction. R4663:2
As by the leader of a testimony meeting, offering encouragement or counsel
in response to testimonies presented. F322
You can do ten times as much with a good word at the right time as you
can with the right word at the wrong time. Q615:T
Proverbs 15:24
Is above -- Upward, toward righteousness. E367

That he may depart -- May be delivered by resurrection power. E367
From hell beneath -- From sheol, oblivion, death, not torment. E367
Proverbs 16
Proverbs 16:2
The spirits -- Ruach, mind, thoughts, motives. E318
Proverbs 16:5
Proud in heart -- Pride is an inordinate and excessive amount of

self-esteem and self-conceit. R5704:1, R5001:1
Those who feel haughty toward others and are not sympathetic; who
despise others. R5000:6
Pride is very deceitful and frequently cloaks itself with humility. R5000:2
No kind of pride would be more detestable in God's sight than pride of the
truth. It is not our Plan. R5001:1
Worldly pride challenges faith in God and obedience to him. R4898:5
Certain conduct which sometimes seems to be pride is not pride; as those,
lacking self-esteem, who have much approbativeness. R5000:3
Sometimes manifest by elders in attempts to override the liberties of the
congregation and hold power in their own hands. R5001:4
Applies also to the angels. R5000:6
An abomination -- Not a creature in the universe has anything to be
proud of, has nothing of his own creation, has only been a recipient of
favor, blessing. R4898:2, R5704:1
Proverbs 16:7
Enemies to be at peace -- At the proper time, in the future. Now,

whoever will live godly will suffer persecution. Q528:3
Proverbs 16:11
A just weight -- We should apprehend the principle of divine justice,

and deal justly and keep judgment. R3635:5
He who fails to appreciate justice must proportionately fail to appreciate
mercy; for mercy is merely the difference between love and justice.
R3635:5
Proverbs 16:18
Pride -- Of wealth; sectarian pride; family pride; personal pride.

R2459:6
Pride has been a general guide for the world which has accomplished much
harm. R5723:4
Alas for the power of pride; the proud cannot see their difficulties.
R5068:3
Humility is important because the other graces of the holy Spirit cannot be
cultivated without it. R4787:1
If you find a humble one with ability, encourage him in its exercise; but if
he be not humble-minded, encourage him not, even though he have the
ability, for the higher you push him the greater will be his fall. R1629:3
Illustrated by King Uzziah. He forgot that he was merely the Lord's
representative and that his first duty was to obey the divine commands. (2
Chron. 26:8-21) R4786:2
Before destruction -- Contrary to the Universalist theory. R3083:2
The greater the blessing, the more serious would be the loss by destruction.
R3385:6
An haughty spirit -- Society's real danger is not from anarchists, but
from friends of law and order who, in putting down enemies of the law,
will tend toward haughty austerity. R991:3
Ruach, mind, will, disposition. E318
A domineering, self-satisfied disposition tends to undermine the character.
R3385:6
Before a fall -- "Thou wilt save the humble people, but wilt bring down
high looks." (Psa. 18:27) R3337:2
We have a standing never previously granted to any, and the higher the
standing the more serious the fall. R3385:6, R1629:3
The time of trouble toward which Christendom is hastening. R2459:6
Proverbs 16:19
An humble spirit -- Ruach, mind, disposition. E318
Proverbs 16:22
Understanding -- Not merely of the head, but of the heart especially.

"With the heart man believeth unto righteousness." (Rom. 10:10) "Out of
the heart are the issues of life." (Prov. 4:23) R2038:2
Proverbs 16:23
Teacheth his mouth -- To speak "words of truth and soberness." (Acts

26:25) R2038:2
Proverbs 16:24
Pleasant words -- Of wisdom, of counsel, of loving-kindness. R2038:3

Health to the bones -- In that they refresh and comfort and stimulate
courage, and thus fortify the soul and strengthen it to noble deeds.
R2038:3
Proverbs 16:25
There is a way -- See comments on Proverbs 14:12.
Proverbs 16:27
Diggeth up evil -- Apparently finding satisfaction in so doing. R2038:4
Proverbs 16:28
A froward man -- A bad man whose acts and words tend to produce
envy, bitterness, misunderstandings and strife. Q46:T
Whisperer -- A busybody or slanderer. Q46:T
Proverbs 16:31
The hoary head -- Blessed is the man who sets his house in order and
who maintains that order to the end of his days. R3630:1
Crown of glory -- When the hallowed influences of ripened Christian
graces are manifest to every beholder. R2038:5, R3630:4
Proverbs 16:32
Ruleth his spirit -- His own mind or will. R2892:4, R3985:6,

R4904:6, R5975:5
Bringing it into full subordination. E112
By changing the allegiance of his will from self to God and overcoming the
foes that are entrenched in his mind as a result of the fall. R3629:5, 3,
R1860:1, R4904:6, R5056:3, R5488:4
We must be taught to rule ourselves, that we may know how to rule others.
R12:6*
The little and more numerous battles, keeping the mind cleansed from the
secret faults, are principally the ones in which we gain the victories.
R4904:6
The greatest power in the universe is the power of the will. OV195:4
God wants all Christians to practice self-denial in respect to sins and
everything which would hinder his cause in any degree. F552
Our dealings with ourselves are our chief concern, our chief battle.
R3985:6
He that continues to rule his own spirit has not only routed the enemy, sin;
but continues to keep him at bay. R3629:3
To rule one's own spirit cannot be done singlehandedly. The wise general
will invoke a stronger power, the almighty arm of God. R3629:5
Illustrated by John the Baptist, all of whose aspirations and human
ambitions were made subservient to his one mission of introducing Jesus.
R1916:1
We have three departments of government: the legislative, which should
always be the conscience; the judicial, the judgment; and the executive, the
will. R3629:5, R5488:6
Than he -- Destructiveness and combativeness, which serve a Christian
well if directed against his own blemishes, are out of place when one
becomes contentious with the brethren. R5056:3, R4803:5, R3858:3
In overcoming pride and selfishness (by confession of his sin with
Bathsheba) David proved himself a greater hero than in his youthful
conflict with Goliath. R2017:4
That taketh a city -- To take a city one must have the skill and
equipment necessary to conquer a nation. R3629:2
Proverbs 16:33
The lot is cast -- Those things which men may regard as mere chance.
R2038:5
Is of the LORD -- Will be overruled to the accomplishment of his
purposes. R2038:5
Proverbs 17
Proverbs 17:15
Justifieth the wicked -- Because they prefer evil, they attempt to

deceive themselves and others into the idea that wrong is right and right is
wrong. R657:3
Proverbs 17:17
Loveth at all times -- No friendship can be surely counted upon until

after it has been tried. R5664:2
Proverbs 17:18
Becometh surety -- By endorsing notes or going on a bond. F568
Proverbs 17:25
A foolish son -- As was Absalom. R3267:3, R3268:5

In training their children, parents are laying out for themselves either joys
or sorrows for the future. R3268:5
Proverbs 18
Proverbs 18:4
A flowing brook -- Drinking of water represents appropriation of the

truth, namely wisdom. R2935:1
Proverbs 18:8
Are as wounds -- Harsh words leave a trace that kind words cannot
quite efface. R5100:5*
Proverbs 18:10
And is safe -- "What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee." (Psa. 55:3)
R2038:6
Proverbs 18:24
A friend -- True friendship is a rare flower on our sin-cursed earth.

R1907:3
"One there is above all others, well deserves the name of friend"--our Lord
Jesus. R3233:1
Closer than a brother -- There are two planes of friendship: a natural
plane on which men of two like natural qualities would be drawn together;
and a spiritual plane drawing still more closely those alike in spiritual
hopes. R3233:4
True and lasting friendship can exist only between unselfish souls whose
wills are fully submitted to the will of God. R1908:4
Proverbs 19
Proverbs 19:2
That the soul -- Being, person. R205:2
Proverbs 19:15
And an idle soul -- Being, person. R205:2
Proverbs 20
Proverbs 20:1
Wine is a mocker -- Wine personifies alcohol. R3270:2

Intemperance is one of the most dreadful curses afflicting humanity.
R2873:1
The cost of intemperance is not merely of the liquor, but of the crimes and
diseases attendant. R3859:6
There is also an intoxication of pleasure, of fashion, of pride and fond
desire, which seeks to stupify the new mind. R2873:5
The intemperate use of spiritous liquors is an apt illustration of the course
and effect of sin in general. R1631:2
A clear knowledge of the divine plan should lead us more diligently to
bring every power and talent of mind and body into full subjection to the
The "royal priests" are in more danger from symbolic wine than from
natural. R4031:5
If others are drunk with wine, let us be filled with a different kind
of wine--the holy Spirit. R5038:6
We desire to express our full sympathy with the temperance cause.
R3859:6
While the wise man does not say that a moderate use of alcohol brings woe
and sorrow, most who tarry long at wine reached that condition through
habit after beginning with the intention of being only moderate drinkers.
R3271:2
Drink is raging -- A warning against a foe so subtle and destructive to
peace and righteousness. R1444:4
The amount spent in the United States for liquor is nearly four times that
spent to conduct the government. (1894) R1631:5
Statistics of 1899 show that 72% of all criminals were made so by strong
drink. R3055:1
The devil is for the saloon, God is against it; vice is for it, virtue is
against it; the brothel is for it, the home is against it; the anarchist is
for it, the statesman is against it; poverty is for it, plenty is against it;
misery is for it, happiness is against it; disease is for it, health is
against it; death is for it, life is against it. R4007:3*
Not wise Though the advocacy of total abstinence is radical and
unscriptural, whoever trifles with this mocker is in danger of being
deceived by it. R2533:2
Who permit themselves to be deceived by sin in any of its forms, for the
pleasures of sin are brief and unsatisfying. R1631:5
Circumstances and climate here, as well as the purity of the liquors, differ
much from those of Jesus and the apostles. R509:5
Proverbs 20:9
Made my heart clean -- "In my flesh dwelleth no good thing" (Rom.

7:18) --no perfection, and all imperfection is un-right, and all
unrighteousness is sin. R2721:3
I am pure -- "If we say (speaking of our flesh and ignoring the
justification provided in Christ to cover its blemishes) that we have no sin,
we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us." (1 John 1:8) R2721:3
Proverbs 20:25
It is a snare -- Leeser translates this verse: "It is a snare to a man to

sanctify things hastily and to make inquiry only after having made vows."
R2081:1
To make inquiry -- In the sense of reconsidering the cost and, in view
of the cost, whether or not we shall keep it. R2081:1
But it is a blessing to make thorough inquiry, and register afresh, our
consecration vow. R4265:6
If, after vowing, inquiry finds it greater and more comprehensive than first
supposed, let one not break it, but, as in Psa. 50:14, "I will pay my vows
unto the Most High." R4265:6
"When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it. Better it is that
thou shouldest not vow than that thou shouldest vow and not pay." (Eccl.
5:4, 5) R4265:6, R2154:5
Proverbs 21
Proverbs 21:3
To do justice -- To do that which is right, just, equitable R5430:3

The foundation of all Christian character. Only those who have this
foundation well laid can make proper progress. R5430:6
Justice comes first; mercy and benevolence afterwards. R5431:5
Building thereupon all the various qualities of love. R5431:6
And judgment -- The essence and substance of the Golden Rule--love
for our neighbor as for ourselves. R5430:3
The Law demanded full allegiance to God. R5430:2
To render righteous decisions in the mind; to decide justly. R5430:3
The decisions of our minds, as well as our actions, should be in harmony
with the principles of righteousness. R5430:3
We are not to judge motives of others; we may judge outward actions as
wrong, but not the heart. R5430:3
We are not to judge another without indubitable proof. R5430:3
Is more acceptable -- Even though we sacrifice some of our time for
the Lord's work, we shall not be pleasing to God if we do not keep his
requirements of justice towards others. R5631:4
Than sacrifice -- Some in Israel seemed to feel that they could be
unjust, and then offer a sacrifice and make it all right. R5430:2
Some grasp the thought that there is a privilege of sacrifice in the present
time, but fail to note that the Lord has given some commands that must
first be considered. R5431:4
One must exhibit the true spirit of obedience, the earnest endeavor to be in
harmony with the law of God; before consecration to sacrifice is in order.
R5431:4
Proverbs 21:15
But destruction -- Contrary to the Universalist theory. R3083:3

Proverbs 21:16
Out of the way -- After he has been once enlightened. Q593:2;

R3725:4*
Congregation of the dead -- Some few of the consecrated, who leave
the "way of understanding," who draw back and wilfully reject the Lord,
will remain in death--the Second Death. Q593:2
Proverbs 21:18
A ransom -- Kopher, a covering, a protection. The laws made for the

people in general are a covering for the Lord's saints. R5972:1
Proverbs 21:23
Keepeth his mouth -- Victory will not be for us except as our hearts are
allowed to dominate our tongues. R4381:6
The heart and the mouth are under special scrutiny. The former represents
the individual character and the latter, an index of the character. R1937:1
And his tongue -- While each should be on guard against
communications that would be injurious, he should also be on guard
against allowing sparks to ignite in his own heart. R4381:4
Soul from troubles -- In the Church the power of the tongue may set on
fire the course of the new nature, a fire which may burn into the Second
Death, and may spread to others with similar effect. R4381:4
Proverbs 22
Proverbs 22:3
Prudent man -- Two classes may expect divine protection in the coming
trouble: (1) children of the consecrated under the age of discretion; and (2)
some consecrating themselves to God during the trouble. R2020:6
We are not to expect miraculous help except where necessary. We are to
watch and pray, look ahead and use our best judgment, trusting in and
looking for the Lord's providential guidance. R2021:2
Foreseeth the evil -- The great time of trouble. R5571:3, R2021:2,
R2019:3*
Profit by the experience of others, either through instruction or
observation. R2073:3
The time of trouble is of two kinds: (1) troubles and siftings upon the
Church which none of God's sons will escape; and (2) the wrecking of
present institutions which true children of God "may be accounted worthy
to escape." (Luke 21:36) R2020:5
Character preparation is the best heritage a parent can leave a child: (1) the
Golden Rule of justice; (2) mercy, the spirit of helpfulness; (3) meekness,
gentleness, etc.; (4) economy in everything. R5571:3
We recommend that none be urged (in order to escape the great time of
trouble) unduly to make a full consecration to the Lord, lest such
profession be mere hypocrisy. R5571:6
And hideth himself -- By surrounding himself and his family with the
best conditions for development in the Christian graces, for rendering
service to the Lord, his people and his truth. R2021:4
Instead of seeking a place of safety, seek the condition of safety described
in Zeph. 2:3 under divine providence. R2021:1
In time of trouble keep a good stock of fuel on hand and a little reserve of
staple food. R5854:5
Do not be afraid of having too much commodities. Think of them as
provision for any in need who may come to you. Do not sound a trumpet
about such provisions. At most, suggest that your friends do likewise.
R5572:4
Punished -- Severe experiences, punishment for lack of observing the
natural laws of cause and effect. R2073:3
Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child -- Chiefly by the establishment of right principles in

the heart. F528
In the reverence and admonition of the Lord. OV217:3
Discipline and obedience should be insisted upon with firmness and
kindness from the day of birth. R3711:5
"The that seek me early shall find me." (Prov. 8:17) R3711:5
It will have more influence than most people seem to realize. Q544:2
The mind of the mother, during the period of gestation, is stamping and
impressing, favorably or unfavorably, the character of her child. R5700:6,
R2902:2; F520
Rule yourself before attempting to rule your child. R1098:2*, R1097:1*
Good men and loyal to the Lord may be poor fathers, careless of their
responsibilities to their children. Alas that it is so to this day. R3598:2
The care and instruction of children is a paramount obligation resting upon
every parent. R4522:3, R5700:5
The science of child-raising in a nutshell: (1) When you consent, consent
fully; (2) When you refuse, refuse fully
(3) Often comment; (4) Never scold; (5; Beware of making an issue with
your child, but when the issue is forced, carry it out. R1098:2*
Since ours is a difficult day in which to raise children it should lead one
more earnestly to seek wisdom from on high properly to discharge his duty
toward his child. R3711:6
We urge the daily use of the Heavenly Manna, beginning every day with
praise and prayer; and the children should be Scripturally instructed every
Sunday. R4522:4
See comments under Prov. 8:7.
In the way -- It is a mistake to suppose that children cannot appreciate
religious principles. R2903:2
He should go -- Conscientious, just, loyal to God and the principles of
When he is old -- Consider children a little garden spot. Plant the seeds
of the fruits of the spirit and reap a rich reward in the graces of
character--especially if the children have been consecrated from infancy
or before birth. R2903:2
He will not depart -- The impression of the principles of righteousness
cannot be wholly effaced even though the child might temporarily try
forbidden paths. R3598:2
The principal reason so many do depart is that they are not properly trained
in the way they should go. Q54:4
Proverbs 22:8
Shall reap vanity -- A principle of divine law applicable to all men.

(Gal. 6:7) R1653:3
Proverbs 22:26
Sureties for debts -- By endorsing notes or going on bonds. F568
Proverbs 23
Proverbs 23:7
As he thinketh -- Alexander the Great willed to be conqueror of the

world and, at a cost of wealth and a stream of blood, he accomplished
wonders. OV195:5
In his heart -- The mental determination or will represents the real man,
from the divine standpoint. OV315:4; SM339:2; R5246:2
The Lord knows whether we are seeking to please him. R5124:4,
R5247:1
The mind has something to do with our physical condition. One-half of the
people in the world are sick because they think they are so. The mistake of
Christian Science is that they carry this principle too far. R5247:6
We should seek to cultivate helpful thoughts and thus exercise a helpful
influence upon ourselves or others. R5248:1
A man's thoughts shape themselves according to the structure of his brain.
OV137:4; R4774:4
See comments on Prov. 4:23.
So is he -- A man is not always what on the surface he seems to be. His
real character is deep down--the purpose of his life. R5246:5
If he thinks justly, he will speak and act justly; if his thoughts are selfish
and ignoble, his words will be deceitful and his conduct dishonest.
R2890:3, R4821:2
Heart-thinking, guided by certain principles, has to do with the real man
God is considering--not the old creature, but the new. These constitute
transformation of character. R5246:6
The body and mind are both strengthened by thinking about things noble,
good and pure. SM338:1
The instructions of the Word, received into good and honest hearts, lead to
obedience and the development of the fruits of the spirit. R5908:5
This same principle is applicable to the whole world, though not on a scale
so far-reaching. R5247:4
Proverbs 23:12
Apply thine heart -- Not just our heads. This implies the study of
ourselves, as well as of the Word, to see just what portions of the Word
apply to our present necessities. R2093:6*, R2094:1*
Proverbs 23:14
Shalt beat him -- If the child needs it. E368

Deliver his soul -- Spare his being for years of usefulness. E368
From hell -- Sheol. Wise correction will save a child from vicious
ways which lead to premature death, and possibly prepare him to escape
the Second Death. R2599:4; E368
Proverbs 23:15
My son -- The exhortation is that of a parent or a teacher who has had

experience in life. To profit by instruction is an evidence of wisdom.
R2073:3
Be wise -- in heavenly wisdom; this makes the glad father. R1502:2
The aim of some parents to have their sons be men of wealth, power, fame
or social prominence is not a worthy ambition. R1502:2
Proverbs 23:17
Not ... envy sinners -- Thereby missing the joy and peace which
naturally flow from a heart full of love and reverence for the Lord.
R1502:2
Proverbs 23:18
There is an end -- To the brief pleasures of sinners. R1502:2

The end of the walk of honesty and uprightness will eventually be better
than that of pleasures and sensualities. R2074:1
Not be cut off -- Shall have a never-failing source of consolation.
R1502:2
Proverbs 23:19
Guide thine heart -- If the heart is right, the actions will regulate
themselves accordingly. " Keep thy heart, for out of it are the issues of
life." (Prov. 4:23) R1502:2
In the way -- Describing a youth starting upon life's journey where two
roads meet--one upward, an honorable course of morality; one downward,
gratification of depraved tastes. R2073:6
This way of morality and temperance is not the same as the "narrow way"
of self-denial in which the Christian is to walk. R2074:5
Proverbs 23:20
Not among winebibbers -- Realizing the force of example, those who

feel strong along this line will forego the exercise of their liberties
for fear of stumbling their weaker neighbors. R3270:6, R3746:3
The Lord's consecrated may not turn aside from their more important
message, the calling of the bride, to urge upon the world the excellent but
temporary and partial reform of total abstinence. R4337:2, R4338:4,
R4156:3,6
It would be perfectly right for us to express our sentiment on the liquor
question at the polls. R4156:2
Proverbs 23:21
For the drunkard -- "No drunkard shall inherit the kingdom of

heaven." (1 Cor. 6:10) No drunkard, therefore, can hope to be a member
Having once been a drunkard, and having turned from it, the individual
would be a drunkard no longer. R4601:1
Total abstinence may be much more necessary today than it was centuries
ago because the race is gradually becoming weakened. R4156:5
And the glutton -- Drunkenness and gluttony are classed together.
Both are unworthy of true manhood and bring their sure reward of poverty
and disgrace. R1444:4
Who is as truly intemperate as the drunkard. R2074:2
We are in sympathy with temperance in respect to intoxicants and "in all
things." R3746:6
Come to poverty -- Gluttony leads to poverty of both mental and
physical strength. R2074:2
Drowsiness -- Sloth or idleness or lack of energy, another form of
intemperance. R2074:2
In an opposite direction, intemperance in energy and ambition for honors or
wealth robs one of social enjoyment and spiritual privileges and joys.
R2074:2
Proverbs 23:22
Hearken unto -- Or, honor. The obligations of honor to parents never

ceases, though that of obedience does when the years of maturity and
discretion are reached. R1502:5
Because of the sudden increase in knowledge, the young have outstripped
their seniors. The resultant tendency is disrespect. R2074:2
The wise parent sets a good example in childlikeness, being ready to learn
from and with his children along the lines of their superior educational
advantages. R2074:3
Proverbs 23:23
Buy the truth -- With reference to the ordinary affairs of life, dealings
between men; and with reference to spiritual things, God and the divine
plan. R2074:3
What we possess naturally is not of lasting value; what we may obtain
instead is of priceless value, everlasting. R1656:2
Sell it not -- Truth, wisdom and understanding are not too costly at any
price; and should never be sold or compromised for the short-lived
advantages of error. R1502:5
And instruction -- Sought in meekness and with a ready and
appreciative mind in the way of God's appointment; but never take council
with the ungodly. R1502:5
Proverbs 23:24
A wise child -- Laying the foundation for a good, wise character before
the children were born. R2074:4
Proverbs 23:26
My son -- You who have repented of sin and are trusting in the precious
blood of Christ. R3703:6
If you would be my son. R5702:5
We are treated as sons in a relative way the moment we turn from sin.
Q400:1
Because of justification, instead of being human sinners, we are human
sons; and now, because we are sons, God speaks to us as such. A233
Only by continued loyalty and obedience can sonship be maintained.
R5702:3, R3207:4*
Give me thine heart -- The affections and qualities of the mind to
which God appeals. OV138:1; R4904:1, R4774:6
Including all that you have and are; in the highest, noblest and fullest
sense--your body, worship, reverence, praise, treasure, time, talents,
influence, money--all in joyful service. R3703:6, R2388:5; A233; F436
Not merely nine-tenths of your heart, but all of it. R4812:3
And I will make you a son on a higher plane than the human. A233
As the Apostle declares, it is our "reasonable service." (Rom. 12:1)
R3704:1
The most that God does for anyone is simply inform him of the steps
necessary to complete his justification. R5207:2
So long as our heart is loyal to the Lord it will control all the products of
life because it will lead us to seek to know the Lord's will in everything.
R4201:3
Observe my ways -- Note God's qualities of character, of wisdom,
justice, love and power, calling forth admiration and reverence. R5703:1
All who are sons of God will study his ways, especially from the study of
the Bible. R5703:4
We are not to follow the Lord's ways in the execution of judgment because
we are liable to make mistakes in such matters. R5703:1
The world does not realize that they are copying the Lord's ways in the
inventions of this day. R5703:1
Proverbs 23:29
Who hath babbling? -- The spirit of a sound mind would not permit
one to take anything into his system that would befuddle his reason.
R4337:2
Redness of eyes? -- "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging." (Prov.
20:1) R2533:1
Picture of the drunkard. R4600:6, R1444:4
Proverbs 23:30
That tarry long -- Most of such began the use of liquor with the
intention of becoming moderate drinkers only. R5098:6, R3271:2
Proverbs 23:31
Look not -- Even the exceeding great and precious promises are not
enough to hold our fallen appetites when constantly exposed to temptation.
We must engage our attention and thoughts in another direction. R3271:4
While it cannot be said that the Bible commands total abstinence, under
present conditions we, as followers of Jesus, are justified in urging it.
R4600:3
97% of transportation companies forbid their employees from using
alcohol. (1903) R3270:3
When it is red -- There is a charm or enticement connected with
alcoholic stimulants which gradually wastes the strong and quickly
enthralls the weak of will. R4600:6
Moveth itself aright -- Goeth down smoothly. R4600:6
Proverbs 23:32
Like a serpent -- Throughout all Europe the blight of intoxication is

awfully prevalent. (1906) R3746:6
Also see comments on Prov. 20:1.
Proverbs 23:33
Strange women -- Strange things, as in delirium tremens. R3271:4

The demoniacal power of liquor is associated with its twin sister, fleshly
desire and general immorality. R4600:6
Proverbs 23:34
Midst of the sea -- Like floating wreckage. R4600:6

The top of a mast -- In imminent danger of destruction. R4600:6
Proverbs 23:35
I felt it not -- Those who become beastly drunk are unconscious of

injury. R4600:6
When shall I awake? -- Seem to have their chiefest pleasure in
unconsciousness. R4600:6
Seek it yet again -- Upon recovering from one debauch, their desire is
to seek the stimulation again. R4600:6, R3271:4
Proverbs 24
Proverbs 24:16
A just man -- Will not fall into sin, although he may stumble for
various causes. R5218:3
Riseth up again -- If the heart is right, the Lord will show him his
mistake and the way to recover himself. R5218:3
Proverbs 25
Proverbs 25:1
There are also -- Chapters 25 to 29 were collected and added later by

King Hezekiah. R1518:2
Proverbs 25:6
Put not forth thyself -- Ambition is a necessary faculty of the human

mind, but a very dangerous element as respects the formation of Christian
character. R3832:2
Proverbs 25:11
A word fitly spoken -- What a power the tongue has for good.
OV208:4
Proverbs 25:21
If thine enemy -- Although, if destitute, we should feed them; yet so

long as they are the adversaries of the Lord's cause, they are our
adversaries, and we are theirs. R1861:4
Give him bread -- If love so broad and comprehensive was obligatory
upon natural Israel, to what degree should spiritual Israel possess and
manifest this noble quality? R5643:6
Not to see how badly you can make him feel, but because love is the
principle of your nature. R2214:6
Illustrated by Elisha's feast to the Syrians who came to take him captive.
(2 Kings 6:22, 23) R3441:5
Proverbs 25:22
Fire upon his head -- Make him ashamed of his conduct in contrast
with yours. R3830:3
Many a man, like Nero, when awakened, will be greatly humiliated by the
generous forgiveness of formerly injured fellow-men. R1655:1
Proverbs 25:28
No rule -- A will-less man is a good-for-naught. OV196:T

A lawless disposition, the spirit of anarchy. R5487:6
Indecision and lack of character in little things (irregularity in arising and
indecision as to proper foods) affect all the greater things of life. R5653:4
"A wise man sometimes changes his mind; a fool, never." Ruling our own
spirit does not mean that we are to go to extremes. R5653:4
One who yields to sin and various weaknesses and assaults of the
Adversary has lost his real manhood. R4789:6
If we rule our mind and our thoughts we shall rule our tongue. R5488:2
His own spirit -- The impulses of one's native mind, disposition.
R5488:1,5, R5652:6
In creating man God gave him a will; but it needs to be defended and kept
in repair. R4789:3
The will is to be continually on guard over the mind, to allow nothing to
enter except through the regular gates of conscience and judgment.
R5653:1
A city -- One's will; the will governs the mind and conduct. R5488:5,
R5489:1
Whether our wills are strong or weak, they need direction. R5487:3
In olden times cities were particularly places of refuge and had strong
walls. R5487:3
Broken down -- Not from visible forces alone, but by evil spirits
subduing and breaking down the will. R4789:6
Even failures, subsequently recognized, lead to greater fortification of the
will. R4790:4
Without walls -- Open to attack. R5487:3
Would invite attack and be certain to meet disaster sometime, as would a
broken-down human will. R5653:1
No will, no self-control. R4789:3, R5653:1
Proverbs 26
Proverbs 26:4
Answer not a fool -- To one who speaks foolishly do not talk foolishly
in return. R5050:3
Proverbs 26:5
Answer a fool -- You do him service if you show him the folly of his
position. R5050:3
Proverbs 26:11
Returneth to his vomit -- As those who, by God's grace, have once

been delivered from Babylon and return thither. R2991:5
Proverbs 27
Proverbs 27:7
Soul -- Being, person. R205:2
Proverbs 27:12
Foreseeth the evil -- The energy of politicians and financiers

advocating world trade markets is begotten of this wisdom. R2867:5,3
Proverbs 27:20
Hell -- Sheol, oblivion, death, not torment. E368; R2599:5

Are never full -- Cannot be overcrowded, no limit to its capacity. E368
Proverbs 28
Proverbs 28:9
Shall be abomination -- Shall not be heard. R2024:1

Proverbs 28:20
Abound with blessings Proportionate to his faithfulness and zeal.

R3869:6
Proverbs 29
Proverbs 29:1
Hardeneth his neck -- A figure drawn from the stiffness of neck of an

unruly yoke of oxen. R3464:1
Often reproved, yet stiff-necked. R4820:2
Be destroyed -- If reproofs do not have a corrective influence the result
must mean a final destruction--Second Death. R4820:2
Proverbs 29:2
When the righteous -- The Church associated with the Lord. R3285:5,
R3447:5
The people mourn -- "The whole creation groaneth and travaileth in
pain together" (Rom. 8:22) while Satan is at the helm. R3447:5
Proverbs 29:11
All his mind -- Ruach, mind, thoughts, plans, purposes. E318
Proverbs 29:25
The fear of man -- And man's churches. R2208:3

"How can ye believe which receive honor one of another." (John 5:44)
R4208:1
God would have every man in Christ realize his liberty from sin and
superstition and his solemn accountability to God for all his thoughts and
words and doings. R1788:5
Hindering even some of God's true servants from faithfulness. D61
A temptation comes to the Lord's people to guide their course not entirely
by the Word of the Lord, but with a deference to the sentiments of others.
R4208:1
Man can do no more, at worst, than take our life; while, on the other hand,
our hopes respecting eternal life are with God. (Matt. 10:26-28) CR9:1
Bringeth a snare -- The neglect of the principle of individual judgment
brought upon the church the snare of the great apostacy, with popes to
dictate in matters of faith and conduct, subverting the consciences of men.
R1788:6
Proverbs 30
Proverbs 30:1
The words of -- Chapters 30 and 31 do not claim Solomon for their

author. R1518:2
Proverbs 30:5
Word of God is pure -- However we have abundant proof that the

English translation is not perfect. R52:3*
Proverbs 30:6
Add thou not -- The penalty was death for the Scribe who dared alter a
single word of Scripture. R52:2*
Proverbs 30:8
Give me neither -- The two-talent man would have a natural advantage

over the one-talent man in that he would be neither so likely to be
discouraged nor to be puffed up, nor have the increased responsibility of
those possessing more. R4660:1
Proverbs 30:15
Are never satisfied -- No end of capacity and can never be over-filled.

E368
Proverbs 30:16
The grave -- Sheol, oblivion, death. R2600:2; E368
Proverbs 31
Proverbs 31:7
Forget his poverty -- This advice of King Lemuel is contrary to true

wisdom. R1521:4
Proverbs 31:10
A virtuous woman -- Uninspired, not by Solomon, and not at all the

present ideal. R1520:3
Proverbs 31:15
While It Is yet night -- This is an extreme view by

an uninspired pen. R1521:1
Proverbs 31:30
Vain -- A breath. R1520:3

Feareth -- Reverenceth. R1520:3
Ecclesiastes
General
The book of Ecclesiastes seems to have been written in
later life, when the heart had grown sick with excess of
sensuous pleasures and the lack of real happiness which
comes from a close and perfect walk with God, when
Solomon turned from all his riches and honors with the sad
refrain, "Vanity of vanities, all is vanity." From his own
experience he proves the truth of his theme, and counsels to
others a different course from that which he himself had
pursued. R1517:5
The heavenly wisdom of the books of Ecclesiastes,
Proverbs and Solomon's Song we accept as of divine
direction, as were the words of the prophets, who frequently
wrote things they did not comprehend. R2053:4
Summary of the chapters of the book. R1532
Ecclesiastes 1
Ecclesiastes 1:1
Words of the Preacher -- Written in later life, when

Solomon's heart had grown sick with excess of sensuous
pleasures. R1517:5, R1532:2
Ecclesiastes 1:2
Vanity of vanities -- Proving his theme from his own

experience, Solomon counsels to others a different course.
R1517:5
Ecclesiastes 1:3
What profit -- An important question, especially for the

young; but all would do well to carefully consider it.
R1532:2
Ecclesiastes 1:4
But the earth -- The physical earth. A69

"God created it to be inhabited." (Isa. 45:18) R1116:6*;
SM313:T
Abideth for ever -- Therefore not to be destroyed by the
great tribulations, earthquakes, etc., predicted in the
Scriptures. HG398:3, HG417:5
Despite the conclusions of science that the solar system is
gradually running down and that eventually the earth will
become cold and lifeless. Q771:1
The elements that are for man's supplies will never be
exhausted; but will be re-utilized in new forms in a circle that
will last into eternity. Q772:2
Therefore "the time of the end" (Dan. 12:4) refers to the end
of the age or dispensation, and not to the end of the world.
Dxv; OV26:3; Q848:4; HG314:3
In spite of all the creeds of Christendom to the contrary.
R2971:2
Ages may end and be succeeded by other ages, but the same
physical earth remains. PD18/26; R1615:4
We anticipate that some change will take place in the near
future, making the earth more fit than at present for the
Millennial kingdom. R3154:6
There is no reason why it should be destroyed; it is not to be
burned up with literal fire. SM318:1, SM791:1; R5364:4,
R3074:6
Ecclesiastes 1:7
They return again -- So shall it be with the Word of the

Lord, it shall not return unto him void, without fruit. R3598:4
Ecclesiastes 1:13
Sore travail -- The present experience under the dominion

of sin. R1533:5
Thus testifies one of the most successful men, from the
world's standpoint, that ever lived. R1532:3
Exercised therewith -- So that when the Millennial
kingdom comes they may be ready for the duty of submission
to God. R1533:5
Ecclesiastes 3
Ecclesiastes 3:8
Hate - Despise that which is contrary to the principles of

justice and righteousness. "I hate thee with a perfect hatred."
(Psa. 139:22) Q783:T
Ecclesiastes 3:9
What profit -- Solomon sees man laboring hard to amass

wealth, and wisely inquires thus. R1532:3
Ecclesiastes 3:10
To be exercised -- By experience. R1533:5
Ecclesiastes 3:18
Sons of men -- None of Adam's children are called "Sons

of God" until Jesus gave himself a ransom. R1005:2
Beasts -- Those who, by wilful sin, forfeit and lose the
likeness of God are to be treated as "natural brute beasts
made to be destroyed." (2 Pet. 2:12) R1005:2
The distinction is not in the kind of breath of life, but in that
man has a higher organism than other animals. R1880:4
Ecclesiastes 3:19
For that which -- Death. E315

Even one thing -- Even the same thing. E315
The destruction of the tissues goes on, so everything that had
life in the body perishes--a process common to both man and
beast. R5166:1
So dieth the other -- Your senses can discern no
difference between them. R4792:5
Death is not sleep; it is destruction. R5166:1
Such as die the Second Death are not sons; they will be
treated as brute beasts, destroyed. R1006:6
But though there is no hope for the future life for the brute,
God's Word stands pledged for a future life for humanity.
HG646:2
Have all one breath -- Life is not a created element at all,
but a principle or force transmuted into different organisms.
R822:1*
One kind of ruach, spirit of life; an invisible power or
influence. E174, E389; R1880:4
All life is the same whether in fish, fowl, beast, man or angel.
R822:2*
But with different bodies and organic quality. E327
No preeminence -- Mankind is not possessed of any power
of life beyond that of a beast, except by God's provision;
nevertheless, our Creator has made provision for everlasting
life for man. R4792:5
Ecclesiastes 3:20
Unto one place -- But for God's mercy the infidel view
would be true--no beyond, no future for man after death.
SM29:1
Ecclesiastes 3:21
Who knoweth -- Who can prove the popular theory? E315

The wise man challenges any proof, any knowledge to such
effect. R1880:4
Spirit of man that -- That the ruach, spirit of life, of man.
E315
Goeth upward -- Controverting the heathen theory that
man had some inherent quality which would prevent his
death, even when he seemed to die. R1880:4; HG331:2
Spirit of the beast that -- That the ruach, spirit of life, of
the beast. E315
Goeth downward -- The distinction between man and
beast is not in the kind of breath or life, but in man's likeness
to God and the provision for his resurrection. R1880:5
Such as die the Second Death will be treated as "brute
beasts," destroyed. (2 Pet. 2:12) R1006:6
Ecclesiastes 4
Ecclesiastes 4:9
Two -- Two, as elders together, would be able to

accomplish manifold more. R5142:6*
Ecclesiastes 5
Ecclesiastes 5:1
Keep thy foot -- Take heed to your standing, your walk,

your conduct. R3990:1
Not literal feet, but being circumspect in one's daily life.
R5186:3
Do not go to the house of God as to the market place, or to
some place of amusement. R5186:3
Decorum, reverence, is necessary in every place where God is
worshipped. R5187:1
House of God -- Whether we meet in a parlor, church, or
opera house, the fact that God's people are there makes that
building a holy place. R5187:1
Ready to hear -- Listen; not full of mirth. All
conversation should be of a kind that would edify, build up,
along spiritual lines. R5187:1
We do not know any lesson the Lord's people need to learn
more than that of reverence. R5187:2
Sacrifice of fools -- Laughter, levity, foolish talk, jesting.
R5186:6
Consider not -- Many parents become so accustomed to
the ways of their children that they do not realize that others
are being annoyed. R5187:4
To come into the meeting late is out of harmony with the
principles of both justice and love. R5187:4
He who is indifferent to the rights of others manifests that he
is lacking in the spirit of love. R5187:4
Ecclesiastes 5:2
Before God -- In view of the fact that "All things are naked
and open with him with whom we have to do." (Heb. 4:13)
R1938:1
For God -- Our Judge. R1938:1
Is in heaven -- Upon the throne. R1938:1
Thou upon earth -- Under trial before the bar of God.
R1938:1
Thy words be few -- Thoughtful, wise, as uttered before
God; not rash, hasty and ill-considered. R1938:1
Ecclesiastes 5:4
Vowest a vow -- Makest a covenant or promise. R2081:1*

Our "consecration" or "baptismal" vow, if a proper one, was
all comprehensive--involving the sacrifice of all that we
possessed or ever would acquire. R4238:1
Defer not to pay it -- The Lord expects faithfulness in
each one who has taken his covenant upon him. R5855:5
One who consecrates cannot, by subsequently changing his
mind, be released from the obligations thus incurred.
R2080:6*
Pay that...vowed -- Its observance tends to strengthen the
entire life. R5613:6
"It is a snare for a man to devour that which is holy, and after
vows to make inquiry." (Prov. 20:25) R4265:5
Ecclesiastes 5:5
Better is it -- Our Lord emphasized the same lesson.

(Luke 14:28-33) R4238:2
And not pay -- Its violation serves to weaken the
conscience. R5613:6
It is not enough that we have consecrated. It will avail
nothing if we prove unfaithful to it, except to rise up in
judgment against us. R2154:5
If death is not voluntary the Lord will destroy our flesh. If we
resist this it will mean the hopeless death of our being.
R5855:5
Ecclesiastes 5:8
Marvel not -- Take comfort that God's judgments will

some day be manifest and prevail. R1532:5
That is higher -- God is above all the judges of the earth.
R1532:5
Ecclesiastes 5:11
What good is there -- Business prosperity he regards as an

empty bubble and the excessive labor to accomplish it as
laboring for the wind. R1532:5
Ecclesiastes 6
Ecclesiastes 6:9
Vexation of spirit -- Ruach, mind. E318
Ecclesiastes 6:12
His vain life -- How vain and unsatisfactory is every

earthly good when there is no hope beyond the present life.
R1532:5
Ecclesiastes 7
Ecclesiastes 7:1
A good name -- On the contrary, the truly consecrated

prefer to suffer for righteousness' sake rather than win a good
name among men by compromising. R1532:6
A wise worldly policy. Such as seek merely present ease
should be careful to maintain a good name. R1532:6
Ecclesiastes 7:2
House of mourning -- Be sympathetic with those in

sorrow. R1532:6
Ecclesiastes 7:8
In spirit -- Ruach, mind, disposition. E318
Ecclesiastes 7:9
Hasty In thy spirit -- Not to be hasty tempered. R1532:6

Ecclesiastes 7:14
Day of adversity -- Rendered "evil" in "I create evil." (Isa.

45:7) A125
Ecclesiastes 7:16
Righteous over much -- Since righteousness is not

rewarded in the present time, keep your finger on the popular
pulse and follow popular ideas. This is not the proper course
for the children of God. R1532:6
Over wise -- Solomon counseled an easy course of
moderation. Paul advises all who are running for the prize
(not open to Solomon) to be "fervent in spirit." (Rom. 12:11)
R1533:4
The ease and pleasure seeker will find this to his present
advantage. R1532:6
Destroy thyself -- The truly consecrated prefer to suffer
for righteousness' sake than to win a good name among men
by a compromising policy. R1532:6
Ecclesiastes 7:25
Reason -- Same word as translated "account" in verse 27

and "device" in Eccl. 9:10. R4093:5*
Closely related to, and the result of, understanding. (Ex.
30:23; Isa. 11:2) R4093:5,2*
Ecclesiastes 7:29
Made man upright -- The earthly likeness of his Creator.

"In the image of God created he him." (Gen. 1:27) R1510:4,
R2394:5; A171; R1794:1, R1266:1, R1091:5, R465:1
But they have -- God is not guilty. R1091:4
Many inventions -- Sinful, contrary devices. R866:1,
R1718:3
And defiled and degraded himself. R1718:3, R2394:6,
R3256:5; E406
Each different creed shows a slightly different image of God,
but they are all horrible. SM443:3
Ecclesiastes 8
Ecclesiastes 8:8
The spirit -- Ruach, spirit of life, spark of life. E317
Ecclesiastes 8:17
Not be able to find -- A knowledge of God's plan was not

then due. R1532:6
Ecclesiastes 9
Ecclesiastes 9:1
No man knoweth -- He could not tell certainly from the

book of nature whether God loved or hated them. R1532:6
Ecclesiastes 9:5
For the living -- Even the least intelligent. E347

But the dead -- When man dies his personality, the result
of his heredity and pre-natal influences combined with his
experiences, perishes; for it cannot exist without a body.
R5166:2
Death is an actual extinction of being but not the annihilation
of matter, which is indestructible. R1377:6
Know not any thing -- Thus neither Dorcas, nor Lazarus,
nor the widow of Nain, nor Jairus' daughter had any
wonderful experiences or mysterious visions to relate.
R1450:5
Thus Jesus could do no preaching while dead, nor the
antediluvians any listening. R1679:1, R4176:6; HG727:5
Whoever knows this is fortified against all the deceptions of
the evil spirits. SM197:T
All, good and bad, go down to the tomb, to sheol, hades,
called in our Bibles, hell. They are experiencing neither joy
nor sorrow, pleasure nor suffering awaiting the resurrection.
OV362:3; R4551:5, R5131:3,6; SM115:1, SM197:T,
CR21:1
The resurrection of the dead is an absolute necessity to any
future life or hope or blessing. R5579:2, R5673:6,3;
SM99:2
Contrary to the teachings of Spiritism. R2170:2, R3741:3,
R3387:2, R4521:2, R5378:2
The various manifestations of Spiritism come not from dead
men. R4521:2
Only the Bible teaches that the dead are dead--all other
religions teach that death is a deception. R4410:3
During the Jewish age God guarded his typical people against
delusions and lying spirits of devils. R1642:6
Is Forgotten -- Is very generally forgotten. E347
Ecclesiastes 9:6
Is now perished -- "In that very day his thoughts perish."

(Psa. 146:4) R5166:2
A condition of peaceful unconsciousness. R2172:3
Any more a portion -- An interest. E347
Forever -- Olam, for a long, indefinite period. E347
Ecclesiastes 9:10
With thy might -- We should be actively engaged in doing

some good according to our talents and opportunities because
we are all hastening to sheol, to the tomb. SM28:T
Solomon shows in this verse that the absence of natural
wisdom, knowledge, understanding, counsel and might,
brings physical death; the same is true applied spiritually.
See comments on Ex. 30:23, 24. R4093:5*
Act quickly therefore; the time is short. R5127:5
There is no work -- Good or bad, praising or cursing.
E368
"The dead praise not the Lord, neither any that go down into
silence." (Psa. 115:17) R2599:2
The condition of the dead is one of total unconsciousness.
R4794:1, 4, R4792:1, R4551:5, R5303:1
The world in general, including infants, will be raised just as
they went down, excepting infirmity and disease. R631:5
Therefore the dead will not be required to aid or co-operate in
their awakening from the graves, for the can neither assent to
nor oppose their awakening. R1509:5
Opportunities now afforded should be exercised to the fullest,
for to each one will come a night time when these will pass,
as one passes into death. R4149:3
In the literal grave. This does not apply to those merely
reckoned dead, but alive as New Creatures in Christ. Q760:1
Nor device -- Planning good, or thinking ill. E368
These four--wisdom, knowledge, device (understanding) and
works (results of workmanship) relate to the same four
elements in Exo. 31:3 and Isa. 11:2, and to the four
ingredients of the holy anointing oil. R4093:5,2*
Nor knowledge -- Holy knowledge or unholy knowledge.
E368
"His sons come to honor and he knoweth it not." (Job 14:21)
A210
The suggestion that the moment of death is the moment of
greater life is of the Adversary. OV215:T
As mankind goes into death, so shall they come out of it; for
in it they shall have learned nothing. R721:6, R5167:2
In the grave -- Sheol, oblivion, death, not torment. E348,
E368, R4551:6, R4162:5, R2599:2; SM115:1, SM525:2
Since God will "have all men to come to the knowledge of the
truth" (I Tim. 2:4); and since mankind have died in
ignorance, God has prepared for the awakening of the dead.
A106
Since the state of death is an entire suspension of being, man's
probation or trial must occur, not in death, but before death or
after it has ended--in the resurrection. R902:3*, R2612:2
Whither thou -- The soul, the sentient being. E348
Goest -- Whether wicked or righteous before death. E368;
OV362:3
God has prepared for the awakening of the dead in order to
knowledge, faith and salvation. OV177:3, OV226:T, A106
Ecclesiastes 9:11
Not to the...strong -- The Lord may grant his blessing with

the feebly spoken word if the life be in harmony with the
message given out. R4968:5
Ecclesiastes 10
Ecclesiastes 10:1
Dead flies - Theological errors which mar the pleasure and

profit of truth. R1211:6, R2064:4
Stinking savour -- Bad spirit. R2064:4
Doctrines of devils in our creeds which blaspheme God's
character. R5673:6, R5674:1
Ecclesiastes 10:12
Lips of a fool -- An unwise, reckless talker. R1937:3
Ecclesiastes 11
Ecclesiastes 11:1
Bread -- Truth. R3715:1*

Waters -- Peoples. R3715:1*
Ecclesiastes 11:3
Empty themselves -- Inanimate things act under nature's

law--there is nothing to indicate that this text refers to
mankind at all. R2048:5
Tree falleth -- When an individual dies. Q767:T
If any lesson or comparison to man were intended, it would
be that so man falls helpless in death. R2048:5
There it shall be -- As a tree is powerless to change its
position, the world will be raised with the same kind of
intelligence with which it went down into death. R2048:5,
R4985:6, R4668:4; Q767:T, A105
There is no change in the grave, either for good or for evil.
Q588:T
"There is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom in
the grave." (Eccl. 9:10) A106
As one awakening from a sleep finds himself in practically
the same condition in which he lay down, plus a slight
invigoration, and is able to identify himself and speedily
recall the events and circumstances which preceded his sleep.
F714
There would he be forever were it not for the divine
arrangement for his awakening. HG647:1
The earliest opportunity after death to gain knowledge and
form character will be when "all that are in the graves shall
come forth." (John 5:28, 29) R2050:5
No change of character takes place in the grave. R2050:5,
R1965:4, R545:1
If one were raised perfect he would not know himself--his
identity would be gone. R4985:6
They will come forth from the tomb in practically the
condition in which they entered it--mentally, morally and
physically. R5167:1, R4985:6
Ecclesiastes 11:6
Sow thy seed -- God's message is so grand that whoever

receives it in a good and honest heart must desire to live it
and tell it to others. R4001:2
Withhold not -- "Sow beside all waters." (Isa. 32:20) If
the sowing has been to gather the Lord's Little Flock from
every nation, so we must expect the harvest work to be
similarly broad. R4000:2
Continue to serve, even when apparently the most favorable
opportunities are withheld. R3197:4
Thou knowest not -- By tracting, etc., the truth reaches
more people than we might realize. R5915:4*
Ecclesiastes 12
Ecclesiastes 12:1
Remember -- And reverence the Creator, learning also of

one's own imperfections and how they were incurred.
R3608:4
Pursue a different course in life than I (Solomon) have done.
R1533:1, R1517:5
Days of thy youth -- These have the blessed advantage of
a long acquaintance with God and of the instruction of his
Word. R1671:6
It is a great mistake to presume that young men must first run
in the race of pride and ambition with the world, and then be
converted to God. R1672:4
Some young people are among the most faithful of those who
have consecrated their lives to the Lord. R1672:4
We have many notable examples in the Scriptures of early
consecration to the Lord. R1671:3
Before one shall have learned so much of evil that the
remainder of life would not suffice to eradicate it. R4838:5
Some parents make a mistake in assuming that their children
must have an experience in "sowing wild oats" before they
will be prepared to appreciate righteousness. R4837:6
Ecclesiastes 12:1
Evil days -- The bitter harvest that always comes from

sowing "wild oats." R1671:6, R3608:4, R1554:2, R4837:6
Of physical decline and infirmity. R1533:2
Come not -- Evil days of disappointment and despair never
will come to those who in youth commit their ways unto the
Lord. R1671:6
No pleasure -- Unless the mind has found its satisfaction
in God there is indeed no pleasure in old age. R1533:2
Ecclesiastes 12:2
Be not darkened -- By dimness of vision, mental and

physical. R1533:2
Nor the clouds -- Of trouble, of one kind or another.
R1533:2
Ecclesiastes 12:3
Keepers of the house -- Arms and hands. R1533:2

The strong men -- Lower limbs. R1533:2
Bow themselves -- Unable to support the weight of the
body. R1533:2
The grinders -- The teeth. R1533:2
Cease -- To perform their office because they are few.
R1533:2
And those -- Various mental functions. R1533:2
The windows -- The eyes. R1533:2
Be darkened -- Be dimmed. R1533:2
Ecclesiastes 12:4
Doors shall be shut -- Because old age has little in

common with the rising generation and, therefore, less
communication. R1533:2
Grinding is low -- When the work of life is done.
R1533:2
Voice of the bird -- Rise up early, being unable to sleep
well. R1533:2
Be brought low -- The failing powers cease to catch the
strains of earthly enchantments, but the ear of faith catches
the sweeter strains of heaven's melodies. R1533:2
Ecclesiastes 12:5
A burden -- The great burden, labor and sorrow of

extreme old age. R1533:2
His long home -- The grave, there to await the morning of
Ecclesiastes 12:6
The silver cord -- Of life. R1533:5

The golden bowl -- The body, which contains the precious
life blood. R1533:5
The pitcher -- The lungs, which draw in life from the
surrounding atmosphere. R1533:5
The wheel -- The heart. R1533:5
Ecclesiastes 12:7
Then shall the dust -- Of which the dying body was

composed. R1533:5
Human bodies have crumbled to dust for centuries. R5108:1
Return to the earth -- All mankind, as they die. R5108:1
Reminiscent of the original sentence of death pronounced
upon Adam for disobedience. (Gen. 3:19) Q837:4
As it was -- Mere inanimate dust. R1533:5
And the spirit -- Ruach, spirit of life, privilege of living,
right to life, power or permission of living. E315; CR397:5;
Q206:4, R803:3, R837:4; R5108:2
Since the fall, all mankind have lived without a right to life.
R5108:2
Shall return -- God has a right to countermand the right to
live. CR397:5
Unto God -- Revert to him, not as a person or as a thing,
but as a right or privilege; just as any forfeited privilege
reverts to its giver. E315, E317, Q668:T, HG510:5
In the sense that it is no longer amenable to human control, as
in procreation, and can never be recovered except by divine
power. E344; R1533:5, R5108:2, R1880:5; Q207:T
Who gave it -- Thus reducing man's condition to exactly
what it was before he was created. E316
Ecclesiastes 12:8
All is vanity -- The poor world's dying refrain, after a

wasted life. R1533:5
Ecclesiastes 12:13
The conclusion -- By the experiences of a wasted life,

Solomon finally proved the vanity of every course save that of
God's appointment and direction. R1533:1
Keep his commandments -- That they may eventually
prove this conclusion is God's object in letting them have the
present experience under the dominion of sin. R1533:5
By his experience of a wasted life, Solomon concluded this to
be the proper course. The world will have reached a similar
conclusion after their experience with sin. R1533:1
Whole duty of man -- Will be enforced in the coming
Millennial age of the world's probation. R1533:5
Ecclesiastes 12:14
Into judgment -- The course which Solomon chose and

followed surely did not entitle him to a place among the
A time of reckoning is coming. R722:2, R2612:6
This is the significance of the present overturning civil and
religious. R1538:4, R4902:4
During Messiah's thousand-year reign of righteousness the
world will be brought to its judgment. R4902:4, R1653:3
Every secret thing -- We seem to be approaching a time of
manifestation. R1954:3
Some shall thus awake to shame and age-lasting contempt.
(Dan. 12:2) R2613:4, R722:6
Quite probably the restored man of the Millennial period will
have considerable power of mind-reading and intuitive
discernment over the imperfect, as our Lord could read the
thoughts of the Pharisees. R1954:3
Whether it be good -- The honorable, even though not
Christians or saints, will have a better standing in the future
time of trial. R4902:5
Whether it be evil -- The dishonorable will need more
stripes to rise up out of sin. R4902:5
"The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil
and the good." (Prov. 15:3) A145
Song of Solomon
General
The Song of Solomon, though in the form of an oriental
love song, is really an allegorical representation of the mutual
love of Christ and the Church. R1517:4
Outline for study of the book. R4232*
Song of Solomon 1
Song of Solomon 1:1
Song of songs -- Harmony of harmonies. R4232:1*,

R1517:4
Although Solomon's songs were 1005 (1 Kings 4:32) they
were not all deemed of the Lord worthy of preservation as a
portion of the sacred Scriptures. R2053:4
The figurative expressions of Solomon's Song should not be
allowed to exercise fanciful impressions upon our minds of
physical or sensuous manifestations of our heavenly
Bridegroom's love and care. R4562:2*
Which Is Solomon's -- Type of Christ in glory, as David
was a type of Christ in the flesh. R4232:1*
Song of Solomon 1:2
Let him kiss me -- A form of salutation which has always

signified closest fellowship. R4232:1*
With the kisses -- The oft repeated endearments.
R4232:1*
Of his mouth -- Full heart recognition of the exceeding
great and precious promises and their application to oneself.
R4562:2*
Does not indicate a physical manifestation of Christ's care.
R4562:2*
Of his Word, the Scriptures. R4232:1*
For thy love -- Thy caresses, the repeated assurances of
guidance, protection, companionship, love and care.
R4232:1*
Is better than wine --Symbol of doctrine. R5633:2,
R4232:1*
The Lord's assurances of love are even more precious to the
Church than are the precious doctrines so vital to her
happiness. R4232:1*
Song of Solomon 1:3
Because of the savour -- Sweet perfume. R4232:2*

Good ointments -- The holy Spirit, composed of myrrh
(wisdom), cinnamon (understanding), calamus (knowledge),
cassia (deputyship), the holy anointing oil of the priesthood.
R4232:2*
Thy name -- Christ, which means "anointed." R4232:2*
Is as ointment -- Symbol of the holy Spirit. T37
Poured forth -- At his baptism, upon the Head; at
Pentecost, on the Body. R4232:2*
Therefore -- Because of their admiration and appreciation
of Christ's holy Spirit. R4232:2*
Do the virgins -- The pure in heart. R4232:2*
Love thee -- Seek fellowship with thee, aspire to learn of
thee, to cultivate thy graces, to be near thee. R4232:2*
Song of Solomon 1:4
Draw me -- "No man can come to me except the Father

draw him." (John 6:44) R4232:2*
We will run -- Run with patience the race set before us;
run for the prize (Heb. 12:1); so run that we may obtain.
R4232:2*
After thee -- The forerunner, the Head, that in all things he
might have the preeminence. (Col. 1:18) R4232:3*
The king -- The Lord Jesus, typified by Solomon.
R4232:3*
Hath brought me -- Even in the present life. R4232:3*
Into his chambers -- Into the "Holy," the spirit-begotten
condition. R4232:3*
We will be glad -- "Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye
righteous." (Psa. 32:11) R4232:4*
And rejoice in thee -- "And again I say, rejoice." (Phil.
4:4) R4232:4*
We will remember -- Will meditate upon, think of.
R4232:4*
Thy love -- Thy caresses, assurances of guidance,
protection, companionship, love and care. R4232:4*
More than wine -- More even than the doctrines so
precious to us. R4232:4*
The upright -- Those without deceit, the guileless, the
pure-hearted. R4232:4*
Love thee -- Seek fellowship with thee, aspire to learn of
thee, to cultivate thy graces, to be near thee. R4232:4*
Song of Solomon 1:5
1 am black -- The Ethiopian eunuch to whom Philip was

sent was a black man. (Acts 8:27) The Queen of Sheba is
presumed to have been a Negress. R3043:1; HG508:4
The bride of Moses, Zipporah, type of the Bride of Christ,
was an Ethiopian woman. R4232:4*
But comely -- The King's daughter is all glorious within
(Psa. 45:13); her intentions are pure, spotless in God's sight.
R4232:4*
O ye daughters -- Professed children. R4232:4*
Of Jerusalem -- Symbol of the Kingdom of God. A296;
R4232:5*
Tents of Kedar -- Kedar was one of the children of
Ishmael. Their tents, though outwardly weather beaten, were
often extremely luxurious inside, being hung with costly
tapestries. R4232:5*
Curtains -- Between the Holy and the Most Holy.
R4232:5*
Of Solomon -- Of Solomon's Temple. A similar one in
Herod's Temple was a most wonderful curtain, being some 30
feet long, 15 feet wide and 5 inches thick. R4232:5*
Song of Solomon 1:6
Look not upon me -- "Look not so upon me" (Leeser); the

Church kindly expostulates with her critics. R4232:5*
Because I am black -- "Because I am somewhat black"
(Leeser). The Church does not deny her imperfections, but is
not disposed to admit the contentions of her faultfinders that
she is altogether worthless. R4232:5*
Because the sun -- The searching light of the true Gospel
which exposes every defect. R4232:5*
Hath looked upon me --Judgment must begin at the house
of God. God's Word fearlessly exposes the weaknesses of
every noble character whose life is there recorded. R4232:5*
That is to say, the sun hath made me black. HG509:5
My mother's children -- Sitting and speaking against their
brother, their own mother's son. R4232:5*
Were angry with me -- "The brother shall betray the
brother to death." (Matt. 10:21) R4232:6*
"Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my
name's sake." (Isa. 66:5) R4232:6*
They made me -- Elected me, appointed me. R4232:6*
Keeper -- Class leader, Sunday School teacher, etc.
R4232:6*
Of the vineyards -- Sunday Schools, Christian Endeavor
Societies, etc. R4232:6*
But mine own vineyard -- The cultivation of the true vine.
"I am the vine, ye are the branches. " (John 15:1) R4232:6*
Have I not kept -- Because my Father is the husbandman.
(John 15:1) R4232:6*
Song of Solomon 1:7
My soul -- Being's affections. R205:3
Song of Solomon 1:11
Borders of gold -- Symbol of the divine nature. T18

With studs of silver -- Symbol of truth. T114
A bundle of myrrh -- Symbol of wisdom. R4093:2*
Are cedar -- An everlasting tree, symbol of everlasting

life. T109; R1364:5
Song of Solomon 2
Song of Solomon 2:3
And his fruit -- Symbol of the fruits of the spirit. E206
Song of Solomon 2:4
Banqueting house -- "He shall gird himself, and make

them to sit down to meat" at his second advent. (Luke 12:37)
D612
More truth is now due than at any time in the history of the
Church. R5501:4
Song of Solomon 2:8
Upon the mountains -- Kingdoms. A318

Upon the hills -- The less autocratic governments. D551
The fig tree -- Symbol of the Jewish nation. D604

Putteth forth ... figs -- Not only do we recognize that the
restoration of the Jews is at hand, but also that the Kingdom
of God is nigh. R127:5*
The tender grape -- Mature fruits of character. A mark of
ripe fruit is tenderness. E206; R1317:5*
O my dove -- A dove-like character. R3759:5*

Pure, harmless, gentle, defenseless, helpless, timid: its only
safety being in flight. R3759:2*
Clefts of the rock -- The Rock of Ages. R3759:5*
Secret places -- Immanuel is the secret of the stairs.
R3759:5*
Take us -- Help us to catch. R5886:2

The foxes -- Very cunning, not capable of ferocity and
viciousness, but is nevertheless cause of much harm. An
appearance of docility makes it more dangerous, less likely to
arouse suspicion of its evil intentions. R5886:2
Little foxes -- King Solomon seems to be picturing the
depravities of our fallen nature which are not so extreme, but
very harmful. R5886:2
Little sins which are really more dangerous than grosser sins
because we are less likely to be on guard against them.
R5886:3
Careless, thoughtless, impatient words; little grumblings; a
sarcastic word or laugh or look or shrug. R5886:6
Spoil the vines -- Small sins, as little foxes, tear the
branches and gnaw at the roots of the spiritual vine,
endangering its very life. R5886:3
Tender -- As grapes during the formative period are
exceeding tender, so the Spirit's fruitage in immature
Christians may be easily ruined. How careful should we be to
guard words and conduct in the presence of the younger and
less mature. R5886:5
Grapes -- Represent the fruits of the holy Spirit. R5886:3
Feedeth among the lilies -- Lilies are fit emblems of those

who dwell in God and abide in Christ Jesus. R843:2*
Enjoying present fellowship. R303:2*
The Bridegroom himself feels the loneliness of the night.
R303:4*
Until the day -- The Millennial day. R303:2*

Shadows flee away -- The Bride anticipates the morning of
fuller joy, even while enjoying present fellowship. R303:2*
Be thou like a roe -- Christ Jesus. She pleads with him
not to tarry. R303:2*
Song of Solomon 3
Song of Solomon 3:6
Perfumed with myrrh -- Symbol of wisdom. R4093:2*

And frankincense -- Representing praise. R3703:4
Signifies "to be white or to make white." It tells of the
relationship between the Bridegroom and the Bride. R84:5*
Song of Solomon 3:9
King Solomon -- Type of Christ. R1517:2; A79

Christ, Head and Body. B255

Of gold -- Symbol of the divine nature. T18
Of purple -- Symbol of royalty. T34
Of Jerusalem -- Symbol of the Kingdom of God. A296
Song of Solomon 4
Song of Solomon 4:1
Thou art fair -- Possessing the ornament of a meek and

quiet spirit, faith and love, we are lovely in the eyes of our
Beloved. R5862:6
Song of Solomon 4:3
Of scarlet -- Symbol of the redemption from the Adamic

curse through the blood of the ransom of Christ. T34, T109
Song of Solomon 4:6
Until the day break -- The Millennial day. The

Bridegroom, feeling the loneliness of the night, longs, like the
Bride, for the day. R303:2*
I -- Christ Jesus. R303:2*
Get me to the mountain -- To enjoy the freshest odors and
to catch the earliest gleams of dawn. R303:4*
Of myrrh -- Symbol of wisdom. R4093:2*
To the hill -- On that hill let us meet him in faith and
watch with him in hope. R303:4*
Of frankincense -- Symbol of praise. R3703:4
Showing the relationship between the Bridegroom and the
Bride. R84:5*
Than wine -- Symbol of doctrine. R3962:4

Of thine ointments -- Symbol of the holy Spirit. T37
The holy anointing oil, the holy Spirit. R4232:2*
And milk -- Food for spiritual babes. A24; D577
Of pomegranates -- Symbol of the rich fruitage of Christ's

redemptive work. T30
With pleasant fruits -- Symbol of the fruits of the spirit.
E206
Calamus -- Symbol of knowledge which we receive from

God's Word. R4093:1*
And cinnamon -- Symbol of our understanding of the
knowledge which we receive from God's Word. R4093:1*
Trees of frankincense -- Representing praise, heart
adoration. R3703:4
Myrrh -- Symbol of wisdom. R4093:2*
A fountain -- Symbol of the Word of God. B266; R565:1

Of living waters -- Symbol of truth. C65
North wind -- An unseen force. A wind of sorrow,
trouble, disagreeableness. R4249:4*, R5815:2*
Come, thou south -- A wind of pleasantness, joy, peace,
etc. R4249:4*, R5815:2*
Blow upon -- Actuate. Let the joys and sorrows try the
Church to demonstrate which is true and which is false.
R4249:4*
My garden -- The great mass of nominal Christianity,
including the true Church. R4249:4*
Spices thereof may flow -- That the graces of the spirit
may become manifest. R4249:4*
Song of Solomon 5
Song of Solomon 5:1
I am come into -- The Lord, speaking after his return.

R4249:4*
My garden -- That aggregation of individuals which
contains both the sister class and the spouse class. R4249:4*
My sister -- Foolish virgins, the Great Company.
R4249:4*
My spouse -- Wise virgins, eventually to be the Lamb's
wife. R4249:4*
Gathered my myrrh -- Symbol of wisdom. R4093:2*
Have drunk my wine -- Spirit of the Lord, truth,
righteousness, sound mind. R3962:6
Under the influence of which men are heard for their much
speaking. R4249:4*
With my milk -- Symbol of food for spiritual babes. A24;
D577
"The sincere milk of the Word." (1 Pet. 2:2) R4249:4*
Eat, O friends; drink -- Reverently, devotedly,
thoughtfully, prayerfully, tearfully perhaps; as we think of our
Redeemer's love and sacrifice. R1505:1, R2436:6
Song of Solomon 5:2
I sleep -- The great body of nominal Christendom would

be asleep when the Lord would come. R4249:5*
My heart waketh -- The Little Flock, the wise virgins,
would be awake. R4249:5*
Voice of my beloved -- Christ, at the second advent.
R506:1*
That knocketh -- "Behold I stand at the door and knock."
(Rev. 3:20) R506:1,* R505:6*
Open to me -- The door of the heart, and admit the Lord to
govern every action, word and thought. R4249:5*
My dove -- Symbol of peace and purity. E212
Song of Solomon 5:3
Have put off my coat -- Failed to recognize the necessity

of the robe of Christ's righteousness and esteemed it lightly.
R4249:5*
Song of Solomon 5:5
Sweet smelling myrrh -- Symbol of wisdom. R4093:2*
Song of Solomon 5:6
Had withdrawn himself -- The foolish virgins realized

that the thing for which they had been praying for 1800 years
was to be consummated. R4249:5*
Song of Solomon 5:7
Went about the city -- Babylon, Christendom. D527

Smote me -- The zeal of the foolish virgins was aroused to
the extent of suffering bitter persecution. R4249:5*
Of the walls -- Symbol of civil powers that defend
Babylon. D40
Song of Solomon 5:8
Daughters of Jerusalem -- Professed children of the

Kingdom. R4232:5*
The foolish virgins finally succeed in interesting the Jews in
the message of the gospel. R4249:5*
Chiefest among 10,000 -- In the eyes of the Bride, the

Church; to those whose eyes are opened. F74; R1063:2*
The most fine gold -- Symbol of the divine nature. T18
Of waters -- Symbol of truth. C65

Washed with milk -- Symbol of foundation truths. (Heb.
5:12) A24; D577
Sweet smelling myrrh -- Symbol of wisdom. R4093:2*
As the cedars -- Symbol of everlasting human life. T109
His mouth -- Utterance. B305

Altogether lovely -- Is Christ in the eyes of his Church, yet
to the sinful, envious, hateful heart of the fallen man "There
is no beauty in him." (Isa. 53:2) E161, E162; R1063:2*
This is my friend -- The chiefest of all heavenly treasures
is the personal love and friendship of Christ. R1820:3
Song of Solomon 6
Song of Solomon 6:3
I am my beloved's -- The Bride rejoices in the

Bridegroom's assured love, and her desires and longings are
not questionings as to the relationship in which she stands to
him, which is to her a settled thing. R303:2*
Only a few will be able to say this. This union with the
Beloved (Christ) implies that the step of justification through
repentance and faith in the precious blood has first taken
place. R4783:5
A positive compact or contract with Christ is implied.
R4783:5
There is no possibility for any to get into this elect class
without knowing it. R4783:5
My beloved is mine -- So long as we continue to be
faithful. "He that hath the son hath life"--eternal life. (1 John
5:12) R4784:1
Those who have Christ are really possessors of "all things."
(1 Cor. 3:22, 23) R4784:1
The Bridegroom's care, provision, protection and comfort
belong to the betrothed even now. R4784:2
Song of Solomon 6:9
My dove -- Symbol of peace and purity. E212

She is the only one -- There is but one Bride of Christ.
R4655:1
As the morning -- Symbol of the Millennial age. A9;

E359
Fair as the moon -- Symbol of the Law in Matt. 24 and
Rev. 12. R499:4; D590
Clear as the sun -- Symbol of the gospel light, the truth, in
Matt. 24 and Rev. 12. R499:4; D590
With banners -- Symbol of the standard of the truth in
Isa. 13:1, 2. D40
To see the fruits -- Symbol of the fruits of the spirit. E206

The pomegranates -- Symbol of the fruitage of redemptive
work. T30
Song of Solomon 7
Song of Solomon 7:2
Of wheat -- True children of the Kingdom. C140
Song of Solomon 7:9
Like the best wine -- See comments on Song of Solomon

1:2.
The tender grape -- Symbol of mature fruits of character,

marked by tenderness. E206; R1317:5*
The pomegranates -- Symbol of the fruitage of Christ's
Song of Solomon 8
Song of Solomon 8:2
Of spiced wine -- Symbol of doctrine. R5633:2

See comments on Song of Solomon 1:2.
Of my pomegranate -- Symbol of the fruitage of Christ's
Song of Solomon 8:4
Of Jerusalem -- Symbol of the Kingdom of God. A296
Song of Solomon 8:5
Who is this -- The true Church, the protesting Church of

God. R1841:6; SM126:1; C65
That cometh up -- Cometh forth into prominence. C65
In God's due time his Church emerged from the wilderness.
R5501:2
Shortly to come from the wilderness. SM126:1
From the wilderness -- At the end of the 1260 years of
wilderness hiding and Papal supremacy, from AD 539 to
1799. C65
The true Church is the Church in the wilderness--separate
from the world. R1841:6
Upon her beloved -- The arm of her beloved, the Word of
God. C65
Song of Solomon 8:6
As a seal -- Or signet, the emblem of power and authority;

symbol of that which was most highly esteemed. R360:4*
Jealousy -- Jealousy of another is always an evil quality, a
most vicious kind of cruelty, unreasoning and insatiable.
Signifies either apprehension of being displaced in the
affections of another or of being outdone by a rival. It is
closely allied to hatred, malice, envy, strife. R4789:1
To the extent that its presence has defiled the heart a
cleansing should be invoked. R4789:2
When the Lord announces himself as a "jealous God" it is not
to be considered selfishness, rather he wants all of our
affections, confidence and entire trust, for our own good.
R4789:2
Jealousy in the Lord's cause is different from jealousy in our
own interest. R4789:5
We must be sure that it is not jealousy of another, but
jealousy for another. R4789:5
Cruel as the grave -- Sheol, oblivion, which engulfs all
mankind. E368; R828:5, R2600:2, R4789:1
The Bible plainly states that death is an enemy. SM116:2
It is not only a cruel monster of itself, but its poisonous fangs
are almost certain to inflict pain and trouble upon others.
R4789:2
Make haste -- The Bride pleads with the Bridegroom not

to tarry. R303:2*
Like to a roe -- The Bride's eyes "are toward the hills"
over which she expects to behold the Bridegroom coming like
a roe. R303:2*
Isaiah
General
Isaiah was one of the grandest of the Lord's prophets. Not
only is his message couched in kindly, sympathetic terms, but
it is most comprehensive, including, with the rebukes and
exhortations appropriate to his own day and nation, sublime
glimpses of the glorious future which the Lord in his own due
time will bring to pass for the blessing not only of Israel, but
of all the families of the earth. The prophecy of Isaiah and
what he saw and foresaw, was prepared during a period of
about forty years. R3451:3
There were three distinct climaxes to the complete
fulfillment of Isaiah's message: (1) It was about 170 years
from the time of his vision and the last year of King Uzziah,
before Judah was carried captive to Babylon, from which only
a remnant returned 70 years later. (2) The vision and the
message were about 800 years before the final rejection of
Israel by Messiah at his first advent, when only a remnant was
accepted into the Gospel age. (3) Isaiah's vision and message
were about 2,650 years before the rejection or nominal
spiritual Israel, preparatory to gathering out of the "Israelites
indeed," which shall rule and bless all the families of the
earth. In harmony with the above suggestions, it will be
found that Isaiah's prophecies repeatedly mingle and
commingle the events of his day with the events of our day.
R2372:3
Isaiah typified the sanctified, who have throughout this age
said, "Lord, here am I, send me." The message of this Isaiah
class has been unpopular, to this day. R4787:6
Some claim that not more than the first 28 chapters of
Isaiah are really the writings of that prophet; that the
remainder of the book bearing his name has distinctive
peculiarities indicating that they were written by two or three
other parties. We reply to this "Higher Criticism" that it is
altogether too high-that it takes the standpoint of unbelief and
therefore not the standpoint proper for the child of God. The
truly higher criticism would reason that as the olden-time
prophets generally used scribes, to whom they dictated, so
probably had Isaiah; and that as Isaiah's prophecy covered a
number of years, he probably had several scribes, and while
each scribe may have had his own peculiarities, the same God
who was able and willing to give a revelation of his will
through his prophet, Isaiah, was willing and able to overrule
the scribes provided, so that the revelation should reach his
people as he designed to give it. R1418:2
Isaiah 1
Isaiah 1:1
Vision of Isaiah -- Probably dictated to several scribes,

over a number of years. R1418:2
Some fulfilled within 250 years of his vision, some apply to
our day. R2372:5
Including rebukes and exhortations of his own day, and
sublime glimpses of the glorious future. R3451.3
Isaiah, like Ezekiel and John the Revelator, seems to represent
the living saints, who see "visions of God." R530:4*
Son of Amoz -- Isaiah was related to the royal family.
R2379:2
Hezekiah -- It is supposed that Isaiah was his tutor.
R2379:2
Kings of Judah -- Isaiah's prophecy was prepared during
about 40 years. R3451:3
Isaiah 1:2
Hear, O heavens -- Powers of spiritual control. A318

Give ear, O earth -- Society. A318
The LORD hath spoken -- Not the wisdom or exhortation
of Isaiah, but the Lord's message through the prophet.
R3451:3
Brought up -- Lifted high in greatness. R3451:6
From an obscure beginning the Lord brought Israel forward to
the most prominent place in world history. R3451:6
Children -- In natural Israel, likewise in nominal spiritual
Israel. R3452:1
Rebelled -- Israel's course was wrong, ungrateful and
sinful; but no worse than the other nations. R3451:6
It is not surprising that the Lord will not permit such to return
to his table. R1900:4
Isaiah 1:3
The ox knoweth -- We ought to be able to know our God

and recognize his supervision in our affairs in this Harvest
time, and see the dawning Millennium. R4044:1
The brute recognizes an obligation to the one who cares for
him. R3452:2
His master's crib -- The ox and ass know enough to return
again and again to the place where they have been fed, thus
owing more discretion than those who forsake the Lord's table
to prove the dishes offered on unclean tables. R1900:2,
R4044:2
Doth not know -- Their Creator and Redeemer--in the
sense of being fully acquainted with his character. R3312:6
The masses of Christendom are too busy with their own plans
and schemes. R3452:2
Some know not the Lord as their owner, but still "belong to"
various sects, parties and denominations. R4044:1
Illustrated by an elder instructing (or cautioning) his Ecclesia
to avoid use of the six volumes of Scripture Studies and other
Present Truth literature. R4044:4
Whoever manifests such a spirit should be firmly, kindly dealt
with, to the intent that the flock might be preserved from such
a pernicious spirit, and that the leader himself might be
recovered from the snare of the Adversary. R4044:5
Doth not consider -- Reflect, think, study, ponder.
R3312:3
Many whom the Lord has favored, both in natural and
spiritual Israel, do not exhibit the wisdom of even the brute
beast. R4044:1
Israel heeded not the light, nor the warning, as here foretold.
R2036:2
Readily forget where they got their previous food. R3786:4
Increased activity in the professed Christian church has taken
more of a business than a pious turn, emphasizing more the
forms of godliness than cultivating vital power, more to
worldly than spiritual prosperity. R2146:1*
The Bible is a religion of faith, but faith based on reasonable
evidences. R3312:3
Isaiah 1:5
Stricken any more? -- What would be the use of any more

stripes or chastisements? What hope would there be of
effecting a reformation? R3452:2
Is sick -- As a result of all tables being filled with vomit,
rejected doctrines. R3963:1
Isaiah 1:6
Foot even unto the head -- Probably referred to the people

as a whole and to their land, desolated from the north and
south. R3452:2
Is no soundness -- The fall of Adam has worked ruin to
mankind. R5977:6; CR209:2*
"There is none righteous, no not one." (Rom. 3:10) E252
Putrefying sores -- Mental and physical. E252
Isaiah 1:7
Country is desolate -- Looking into the future desolation

came about a century later. R3452:3, 2
Applied to Christendom, Evolutionists and other enemies of
the truth are laying waste the heritage of the Lord's people.
R3452:3
Isaiah 1:8
Daughter of Zion -- The nation of Israel, typical of

nominal spiritual Zion. R1648:3; D23
As a cottage -- A temporary structure; unsafe,
unsatisfactory-picturing the condition of the Jewish nation,
and foretelling the deplorable condition of Christendom.
R3452:3; D558
Isaiah 1:9
Had left unto us -- During Israel's double of disfavor.

OV75:4
Small remnant -- The majority stumbling because of pride
and hardness of heart. B215
The rest of Israel will have missed the honor, offered to them
first, of constituting the spiritual Bride of Christ. OV96:2
Similarly, also at the second advent of Christ, only a remnant
will be found of Israelites indeed, while the majority will be
rejected. R3452:5
Have been as Sodom -- Implied hopelessness as respected
the kingdom opportunities of Jewish and Gospel ages, but not
as respects the future. R3452:5
Isaiah 1:13
Vain ablations -- In the churches there is a great deal of

formalism-fine church edifices, grand organs, trained choirs,
gymnasia, "smokers," culinary departments, etc. R5696:4
Isaiah 1:14
Appointed feasts -- The Lord will not recognize and

accept such service. R5696:4
Isaiah 1:15
I will not hear -- "God heareth not sinners." (John 9:31)

R2024:1
Isaiah 1:16
Wash you -- Does not mean a washing away of literal sin

which they could not effect, which was only figuratively done
on the Day of Atonement, and will only be actually
accomplished by the Lord Jesus' work. R3452:6
Make you clean -- An exhortation to reform, like the
words of John the Baptist and Jesus in the Jewish Harvest.
R3452:6
Spiritual Israel has real cleansing in the better sacrifice of
Christ. R3453:1
Cease to do evil -- We shall not be able to effect this
transformation in ourselves except so far as we have a right
will and a pure heart, an honest endeavor for righteousness.
R4840:4
Although our wills are in opposition to sin of every kind,
having imperfect bodies, we cannot hope to be absolutely free
from sin. R3453:1
Isaiah 1:17
Learn to do well -- The Lord desires that we realize our

wrong condition and turn therefrom to the best of our ability.
R4840:4
Perfection must be our aim, and in our hearts it must be
continually the criterion-but we cannot live up fully to this
grand standard. R3453:1
Seek judgment -- Always be on the side of right and
justice, desiring to do justice to all with whom you have
dealings. R3453:2
Relieve the oppressed -- Be of generous spirit, willing and
anxious to lift some of the burdens from the groaning creation
to the extent of your ability. R3453:2
Judge the fatherless -- See that those not capable of
looking after their own interest do not suffer at your hand.
R3453:2
Plead for the widow -- Feel a sympathy for the helpless
and plead their cause with others. R3453:2
Isaiah 1:18
Let us reason -- Reason is the noblest faculty of the

human mind, the prominent mark of the divine likeness in
humanity, making man capable of communion with God.
R1565:3
Man is invited to use his reasoning faculties in the study of
God's Word. A20
God thus recognizes his image, even in fallen man. A174
Verses 18 to 20 apply especially to natural Israel, though an
application is also possible to spiritual Israel. R3453:5
Inviting the faithful to consider, to search, to prove. R3312:3
Appealing neither to prejudices nor to passions. A58
Indicating that God's Word is reasonable. Q747:4
So that our faith in his plan might be a reasonable faith and
that we might be able to give to our fellowmen a reason for
the hope that is in us. (1 Pet. 3:15) R1565:3
A faith without reason honors not God, nor is it worthy of an
intelligent being. Faith without reason is merely groveling
superstition. R883:3*
The two extremes of underrating and overrating human reason
are both fraught with evil consequences. R1566:6
The Lord is pleased to have those who are in harmony with
him know the equity, the justice, of all his dealings. R3947:1
We can reason together with God when we take the voice of
his Son and reject the voices of the "Dark Ages." R3795:3
As originally created, man was in his Creator's mental
likeness: Justice, Mercy, Love in man were the same in kind
as in God; so much so that they could and did, ever since the
fall, reason together on these subjects. R525:3
Nominal Christians, avoiding thought on religious subjects,
have not their "senses exercised by reason of use" and are, at
best, only babes in Christ. (Heb. 5:13, 14) R2890:5
Heathen religions, and to some extent nominal Christendom,
seek to restrain the intellect and appeal chiefly to the
passions, prejudices and fears. R2890:5
I will make it clear and plain to you, God says. R689:6
Together -- We are not to reason without him and his
Word. SM24:2; CR334:3
The Lord never reasons with any except those who have faith
in him and trust in his promises. R3947:1
Sins be as scarlet -- The Lord used crimson and scarlet as
indicative of the most flagrant sins. CR414:2
A fact recognized by some Jews on the great Day of
Atonement. C255*
As white as snow -- The merit of the great Atonement
sacrifices covers all blemishes and makes absolutely clean.
R3453:6
If a scarlet, or crimson, object is viewed through a red glass in
the light it appears white; so when we come where God will
view our sins through the blood of Christ they are accounted
as white. R13:4
Evidencing the full and complete forgiveness of all who are
truly repentant and who desire to draw nigh to God through
Christ. Q832:4
The word "white" is from the same root as the word
"frankincense." R84:5*
Red like crimson -- Deep red-a fast color. R689:6
Isaiah 1:19
If ye -- The obedient in the Millennial age. R1649:5;

A67; HG538:2
Good of the land -- All promises made to Israel were of
temporal good, with no mention of heavenly hopes. R1358:4
To the natural man this would mean earthly good things, and
to the spiritual Israelites heavenly good things. R3453:6
Isaiah 1:20
Ye shall be devoured -- If spiritual Israelites refuse to

walk in harmony with the Lord's direction and rebel against
him, they will bring upon themselves the Second Death.
R3454:1
Isaiah 1:25
Purge away thy dross -- A refining process, applicable to

spiritual as well as fleshly Israel. R1944:3
Isaiah 1:26
Restore thy judges -- The Ancient Worthies, in full

authority as prophets or teachers, under the supervision of
Immanuel's heavenly Kingdom. R4201:4, R4320:5; A294;
CR141:6; OV321:5, OV88:3
As at the first -- Implies that this was, in many respects, a
favorable time for the Israelites. R3102:5, R5645:6
The rule of the judges was superior to that of the kings.
R4201:4
Eventually the whole world will be under heavenly rule, with
incorruptible earthly judges enforcing the divine law.
R3216:5, R5646:5
The Millennial blessings will begin with Israel. OV88:3
And thy counsellors -- The lawgivers, as at the first, will
be the greater than Moses-The Christ, Head and Body.
R4201:4
City of righteousness -- The Christ complete constitutes
the New Jerusalem. R238:2*
Isaiah 1:28
The destruction -- There surely will be some lost, as well

as some saved. R3083:2
Of the sinners -- The wilful sinners. R3083:3
Isaiah 2
Isaiah 2:1
Judah and Jerusalem -- Natural Israel. By the time this

prophecy will have begun to be fulfilled, spiritual Israel will
be beyond the veil. SM736:1
Isaiah's prophecies repeatedly mingle and commingle the
events of his day with the events of our day; intruding the
Messianic Millennial Kingdom into the prophecies which
specially relate to natural Israel. R2372:5
Isaiah 2:2
In the last days -- When the last member of the elect

Church of Christ shall have passed beyond the veil.
SM730:2, R735:T, R362:3
That the mountain -- The Kingdom. C235; D628; E44;
R1914:2, R5990:1
Of the LORD'S house -- Of the house of Jehovah. E44
"Whose house are we." (Heb. 3:6) R269:2
Messiah's Kingdom, represented on earth by Israel, as the
divine channel of blessing, with the Ancient Worthies, as
princes in all the earth. SM730:1, SM731:1, SM732:2,
SM733:1
Established -- Now being established permanently; when
the first resurrection is complete. R172:1, R3175:5,
R5990:1
In the top of -- Overruling other kingdoms. D628, E44
It will be the chief mountain or Kingdom. R4990:1
The place of power. R269:2
Superseding. R5990:1
The Temple was permanently established, not only in
Jerusalem, but in the top of the mountain. R172:1
Not only true of the spiritual Kingdom, but including also an
earthly Kingdom of "Israelites indeed" headed by the
resurrected Ancient Worthies. SM732:2
As a "city set on a hill that cannot be hid." (Matt. 5:14)
R338:5, R421:6
The mountains -- All earthly kingdoms. D628; E44;
R5990:1, R4990:1; SM732:2
Shall be exalted -- This exaltation began in April, 1878.
C235; R5990:2
Above the hills -- The smaller governments of earth.
R5575:4, R5990:1
Republics. D628
The highest peaks. D628
All nations -- This Kingdom will intervene between the
divine government and mankind because the fallen race is
unable to meet the requirements of the divine law. R5181:2
Shall flow unto it -- As the world shall come to appreciate
the new order of things, all nations shall flow up to it.
SM734:T, SM735:T
The whole world will send to the wonderful "princes" to have
them extend everywhere their government, their yoke of
righteousness, seen to be so beneficial to Israel. D628
The New covenant will be inaugurated with natural Israel and
gradually the whole world will become attached to Israel as
part of Abraham's earthly seed. CR485:2
Isaiah 2:3
Many people -- The world in general. R5428:5;

SM735:1; OV85:1; Q60:7
Instead of the Lord's empire being a typical one over the little
nation of Israel, it will be the antitypical one, as King over all
the earth. R2550:3
Shall go and say -- When disturbed by the commotions
and trouble of the Epiphania, the Apokalupsis of the King in
the pouring out of the seven last plagues. R2957:1, R2975:4,
R3869:1
Come ye -- They will be completely disgusted with Satan's
ruling, and his deceptions, and glad to submit to the reign of
Christ. R1233:4
Let us go up -- In the time of trouble, and subsequently.
R5655:6, R517:4*; Q637:3
Let us submit to the new Kingdom of God. R269:2
All nations will be desiring salvation and the blessings of
restitution. R5655:6, R5000:2, R4796:1
Seeing God's blessings coming to the nation of Israel, the
others will want a share also. Q170:8, Q205:T, Q210:T
When the iron rod shall have accomplished the work of
destruction, then will the hand that smote be turned to heal,
and the people will return to the Lord and he shall heal them.
A256
As, similarly, representatives of many nations came to hear
Solomon. R2053:1
Let us seek protection and render obedience to the Kingdom
of the Lord. R687:1
Mountain of the LORD -- Kingdom of Jehovah. A297;
E44; SM735:1
To the house -- Temple. SM735:1
The God of Jacob -- The New covenant will be made only
with Israel. The only way other nations can receive a share of
restitution favors will be by becoming Israelites. R4575:4
The world, weak and awe-struck by the time of trouble, will
begin to take notice of Israel's rising again to national life and
the blessings bestowed upon them. R4555:3
They will say, he has done for the Jew first, but he will also
do for us. R4840:5
He will teach us -- As well as the Jews. R4796:4,
R4575:5
As a counsellor. (Isa. 9:6) R1747:4
After the time of trouble, they will be glad to forsake their
own ways and come into harmony with God. R269:3,
R5428:5
Walk In his paths -- "All the paths of the Lord are mercy
and truth." (Psa 25:10) R2334:6
"They shall return even to the Lord, and he shall be entreated
of them and shall heal them." (Isa. 19:22) A256
Present temptations to evil will be removed when Satan shall
be bound. R542:4*
Not until they do this will the Mediator recognize them.
R5428:5; Q60:7
Led forth from sin along the grand highway to perfection.
R1024:4
The Gentiles, seeing how the Lord blesses the Jews for so
doing, will want similar blessings. Q206:2
Those who fail to do this will have tribulation that they may
learn righteousness. R4729:2
For out of Zion -- The spiritual phase of the Kingdom, the
glorified Christ, Head and Body. A297, C293; D628;
CR156:6, CR157:2; R4555:3, R4575:4, R5000:2
The true Zionism of the past eighteen centuries has been of
the heavenly kind. CR156:6
Go forth the law -- As soon as the last member of the
Church is glorified, for correction in righteousness of the
world's affairs. CR157:1, 3, CR156:6; R4542:5
Now we persuade, urge, entreat men to come to the Lord;
then it will be different. R4542:5
Word of the LORD -- Divine messages, through the
"princes." (Psa 45:16) CR157:2; D620, R3869:2, R5583:4
From Jerusalem -- The seat of the earthly phase of the
Kingdom in the hands of the "princess" A297, C293; D629;
SM735:1; R4071:6, R5293:4, R5000:2; OV96:3
Jerusalem will become the capital city of the world. Q790:2
The Ancient Worthies will constitute the earthly Jerusalem,
the capital of the new dispensation. CRI57:2
The re-established fleshly Israel. C293; R4575:4, R1341:2
Fleshly Israel, recovered from blindness, shall be used as a
medium through which the streams of salvation, issuing from
glorified, spiritual Israel, shall flow to all the families of the
earth. C293
These two phases of the Kingdom will be in communication
and co-operation through the Millennium. R4071:6
From Israel, under the New covenant, through Israel's
Mediator, a way of approach to God will be opened up for all
the Gentiles. OV96:3, OV85:1
The earthly phase of the Kingdom will be essentially
Israelitish. R286:6
The nation that will not go up to Jerusalem will have no
blessings. (Zech. 14:17-19) R4819:5
Isaiah 2:4
He shall judge -- Previously-in the great time of trouble.

D628, D629
Rewarding and punishing justly. SM735:1
And shall rebuke -- By his judgments. R1469:6
And they shall -- As a result of the Lord's rebukes and
subsequently his law and word. D629
The connecting verses show that the conditions of peace
referred to will not be established until after the Kingdom of
the Lord is set up on the earth. Q812:2
Beat their swords -- After they have been brought to a
condition of willingness. R269:2
Into plowshares -- We Christians have not gotten them to
do so. R5061:3
Learn war any more -- Under Messiah's Kingdom wars
will cease forever. R5760:3; OV318:5
"Prepare war" (Joel 3:9, 10) is the prophecy that applies now.
R353:2*
Isaiah 2:5
O house of Jacob -- Natural Israel. A300, SM736:1

Walk in the light -- Truth. Those most prompt to respond
will get the greater blessing. A20; SM736:1
Isaiah 2:6
Thou hast forsaken -- Verses 6 to 10 give some reasons

why God's favor has been, for a time, withdrawn from Israel.
SM736:2
Isaiah 2:7
Full of horses -- Doctrinal hobbies. C316

Of their chariots -- Worldly organizations. C316
Isaiah 2:8
Is full of idols -- The idolatry of money, covetousness, etc.

B139; R1836:1
Isaiah 2:11
Shall be humbled -- They will not be boasting then.

OV420:3
Pride is a great obstacle, hindering approach to truth and
righteousness. The Almighty is not sufficiently reverenced.
SM737:1
Haughtiness of men -- The wisdom of the learned will
prove futile in the time of trouble. SM737:1
Shall be bowed down -- Nevertheless his judgment will be
for the world's deliverance, for he wounds to heal. R1869:3
The LORD alone -- The result will be the glory of the
Lord and the humbling of human pride. SM737:1
Exalted in that day -- In the time of trouble. B139
The thousand-year day in which Messiah is to be King over
all the earth. PD3/8
The Day now begun. OV420:3
When men give up the contest, God will exalt himself and
fully set up his government. R1213:6*
Isaiah 2:12
Upon every one -- Heavy upon every proud one. SM737:2
Isaiah 2:13
Cedars of Lebanon -- The ecclesiastically great. SM737:2

The oaks of Bashan -- The politically strong. SM737:2
Isaiah 2:14
The high mountains -- The kingdoms of this world.

SM737:2
All the hills -- The smaller princedoms. SM737:2
Isaiah 2:15
High tower -- Human organization. SM737:2

Every fenced wall -- Symbol of civil power. D40
Isaiah 2:16
Ships of Tarshish -- Possibly a reference to the destruction

of the Spanish navy in the Spanish-American war. R2506:5*
Isaiah 2:17
The LORD alone -- God must be first under the new order
of things. SM738:T
Isaiah 2:18
And the Idols -- The idolatry of money, covetousness, etc.

B139; R1836:1
Isaiah 2:19
And they shall go -- Realizing their inability to cope with

the mighty, pent-up forces with which they will have to deal
when the terrible crisis arrives. D148
Holes of the rocks -- Represent attempted protection of
human organizations, insurance companies, secret societies,
etc. SM738:1
Caves of the earth -- Fortresses of society Free Masonry,
Odd Fellowship, Trade Unions, Guilds, Trusts and all
societies, secular and ecclesiastical. B139
When he ariseth -- Assumes authority, takes command.
"At that time shall Michael stand up." (Dan. 12:1) B14 7
To shake terribly -- So that it may be removed. D55;
SM738:2
None of the shelters of society will be able to protect from the
trouble which is coming. SM738:1
The earth -- The present social order. D55
Isaiah 2:20
In that day -- In the time of trouble. D149, R2506:6

Now so very close at hand-"even at the door." (Matt. 24:33)
D148
Isaiah 2:21
Fear of the LORD -- Fear of his judgments which, in a

natural way, will produce the great time of trouble. B140
Shake terribly -- "Until all the foundations of the earth
(the foundations of society-the hitherto established principles
of law and order) are moved." (Psa. 82:5) D55
And to destroy its corruptions. B140
Present civilization will be destroyed because the Lord has
something far better for the world. OV420:3
Isaiah 2:22
Cease ye from man -- It is time for the Lord's people to

recognize the Lord as their only King and Director. R3217:3
Isaiah 3
Isaiah 3:1
Whole stay of bread -- During the Gospel age the poor

Jews have been famishing. They have been without any
communication with God. R5031:6; Q269:7
Isaiah 4
Isaiah 4:1
In that day -- An expression usually referring to the

closing period of the Gospel age with its time of trouble and
general church and world confusion. CR409:1
Seven women -- The complete nominal church, Babylon
the great and all her daughters. R295:2; Q851:2; CR413:2
None of them has his approval. CR408:3
Take hold of one man -- Christ Jesus. Q851:2; R295:2;
CR413:3
Eat our own bread -- Which the world supplies. R295:2
Made with the leaven of false doctrine. R5111:4
For the doctrines of Christ they care nothing. CR413:3
Our own apparel -- The filthy rags of their own
For any thought of redemption and covering of sins through
Christ they care nothing. CR413:3
Called by thy name -- They assume the name Christ, and
call their organizations, Christian churches. R295:2; Q851:2;
R413:3
Away our reproach -- That we are not the true Church,
because of worldliness. R295:3; Q851:2
Isaiah 4:4
Daughters of Zion -- Spiritual Israel. R1648:3; D23

Judgment ... burning -- The double cleansing process.
R3568:5*
Isaiah 4:6
A tabernacle -- Wherever there are one or more

consecrated hearts there is a dwelling place of God. R2080:3
From the heat -- Where the heart may rest its burdens and
find refreshment. R2080:3
From storm -- From the storms of life. R2080:3
Isaiah 5
Isaiah 5:1
Song of my beloved -- A parable, or story, of Jehovah.

R4794:3
A vineyard -- The Jewish nation. "A certain man planted
a vineyard and set a hedge about it." (Mark 12:1) R1982:2,
R2904:1
Palestine. R4257:1
Figure of Jewish and Christian systems, both the houses of
Israel. R1896:1
Isaiah 5:2
He fenced It -- With the Law and the prophets. R4794:3,

R1795:3
The spiritual promises with which he surrounds the Church.
R4795:4
The special supervision and fatherly guardianship of God, the
ministration of his faithful servants. to separate them from
ungodly, surrounding nations and to protect them from their
influence. R1795:3
Gathered out the stones -- Removed the difficulties.
R4794:3, R4795:4
The choicest vine -- Referring specially to the leaders of
the Jewish people. R2904:1
The richest promises of the Messianic Kingdom. R4794:3
The care with which the Lord planted his Church with
heavenly, spiritual promises. R4795:4
And built a tower -- A watch tower, representing the
prophets. R1795:6, R4794:3
A watch tower of grace and truth established by the apostles.
R4795:4
Made a winepress -- The various advantages conferred
upon Israel which should have caused an overflow of precious
fruitage. R1795:3
Bring forth grapes -- Mature fruits of character, especially
that of unselfish love. E206; R4794:1, 1795:6
God looked for choice fruitage from such a favorably situated
vineyard as Israel, but in vain. R4794:3
Wild grapes -- Israel's fruitage was not in harmony with
the promises God had planted, and this condition prevailed
until the time of Jesus. R4794:3
Similarly, in the Harvest for spiritual Israel, the great nominal
mass will be found unworthy. R4795:4
Isaiah 5:3
Men of Judah -- Isaiah was not writing to the ten tribes,

but to the two tribes of Judah, seeking to warn them by the
experiences of their sister nation. R3892:5
Isaiah 5:4
Could have been done more -- It was not for lack of

attention on God's part, but perversity of the vine which had
degenerated into a "strange vine." (Jer. 2:21) R1896:2
Wild grapes -- As natural Israel failed to be ready to
accept Jesus at his first advent, so spiritual Israel will fail to
be ready to receive him as the Messiah at the establishment of
his Kingdom. R4795:4
Isaiah 5:5
Do to my vineyard -- Temporarily abandoned, the

vineyard of Israel will be restored during the Messianic reign.
R4795:2
Take away the hedge -- Applies since the day of John the
Baptist, the last of the prophets. R4794:6
Trodden down --The Gentile nations have ravaged this
vineyard. R4794:6
Isaiah 5:6
Lay It waste -- Had some application to the 70 years of

desolation of Israel, with larger fulfilment at our Lord's first
advent when he declared their house left desolate because of
their wrong condition of heart and rejection of Christ. (Matt.
23:38) R4257:1
No rain -- It has been laid waste. No care has been taken
for it. R4794:6
Symbol of truth. B256
No rain of divine blessing, comfort, encouragement has come
upon the Jewish people in all these more than eighteen
centuries. R4794:6
Isaiah 5:7
House of Israel -- Natural Israel types Christendom which

is also called the Lord's vineyard. R5112:1
For judgment -- Justice. R2904:2, R4795:1, R5112:1
Behold oppression -- Contrary to the Law, of unselfish
love for the neighbor as for one's self. R4795:1
Those with the greatest knowledge of righteousness took
advantage of their more ignorant brethren. R2904:2
For righteousness -- Jehovah knew they could not keep
the Law perfectly, but did expect heart endeavors. R4795:1
Equity. R5112:1
Behold a cry -- Because of the landlordism of verse 8.
R5112;1
Of distress, from the oppressed. R5112:1, R2904:2
So it is throughout the length and breadth of Christendom.
R1896:2
Isaiah 5:8
Woe -- Verses 8 to 23 treat the reasons the Lord was

displeased with Israel and rejected them. R4257:1
Especially in the time of trouble. R2904:3
Unto them -- Natural Israel and nominal spiritual Israel,
Babylon. R2904:3
Join house to house -- The religious organizations,
corporations and individuals are all engaged in this business
of acquiring wealth. R1896:2
Landlordism. In the future, "they shall no more build and
another inhabit" (Isa. 65:22); perhaps signifying that in the
future, houses will be built for the owner's occupancy, not
rented. R2904:2
Illustrated in the Morgan-Rockefeller-Hill Trust "syndicating
the world," seeking to acquire control of the world's interests
in various lines, such as steel. R2804:3*
Lay field to field -- Amass wealth and control land and
machinery and all sources of wealth and power. R2904:3
There be no place -- For the poor to occupy. R2904:2
Placed alone -- The sin of selfishness, avarice, indicates a
lack of the spirit of the Lord. R4795:2, R4257:1, R5112:1
Isaiah 5:9
In mine ears -- In my hearing. R5112:2

The cry of the oppressed comes up into the ears of the Lord of
armies who declares "woe." (See Jas. 5:1-6) R1896:2
Shall be desolate -- Ruins will come on the great estates.
R4795:4
Mansions uninhabited and fields unfruitful. R4257:2
The time of trouble will be upon all. R5112:2
Great and fair -- Houses and families. R5112:2
The time of trouble will be especially against the great who
live in earthly palaces. R2904:3
Without Inhabitant -- In the time of trouble the finest
residences will be deserted for safety's sake, or their
occupants destroyed. R2904:3
Isaiah 5:10
Shall yield -- When the time of trouble has fully come, so

that "There is no hire for man or beast" (Zech. 8:10), the
returns from large holdings will be so poor as to lead to
serious results. R2904:5, R4795:4
Shortage of crops will have much to do with the trouble.

R5112:2
One bath -- Equals only eight gallons. R2804:6*
An ephah -- But a tenth of an homer (or about one bushel).
R2804:6*
Isaiah 5:11
Woe unto them -- Symbolic prophecy concerning both the

houses of Israel, after the flesh and spiritual. R1896:1
Many of the rich indulged themselves in intoxicating liquors,
music, revelry, etc., to their own injury and the neglect of
their responsibilities toward God. R5112:3
Strong drink -- Any indulgence of alcoholic spirits is
dangerous. R4256:3
Reference here is not to literal wine, but to the intoxicating
spirit of the world. R1444:1, R1896:2, R3892:3, R2904:2
Symbol of false doctrines. D614; R4257:6
Continue until night -- All day long give themselves up to
the intoxicating spirit of the world. R1896:3
Till wine inflame them! -- Controlling the will and
bringing it into slavery, rendering it almost powerless.
R3893:1
Isaiah 5:12
The harp -- Money-making, feasting, music and pleasure-seeking

absorb the attention of the great and influential.
R4257:2, R1896:3
And pipe -- Pipe organ. R2904:6
They regard not -- The majority of the rich, like the
majority of the poor, are selfish to the core. R5112:4
The minds of those given up to self-indulgence and enslaved
to sin are distracted , turned to unworthy and ignoble subjects
that have a degrading influence upon them. R3893:2
"God is not in all their thoughts." (Psa. 10:4) R3893:2
The work -- The plan. R1896:3, R2409:6
Humanity in general. God would have the prosperous
concentrate their powers, not upon the aggregation of wealth,
but on generous schemes for the blessing and uplifting of the
race. R5112:5
Neither consider -- Their wealth gave them time, for
which they are also responsible. R5112:3
Isaiah 5:13
Therefore my people -- Those professing to be my people,

Christians. R1896:3
Into captivity -- To ambitious leaders who have usurped
authority over them and made void the Word of God.
R1896:3
Have no knowledge -- Of the Lord's plan. R2905:1
Not being in the attitude of heart and mind in which God
could teach and lead them. R1896:3
Their honourable men -- Clergy, bishops and popes.
R1896:3
Are famished -- From lack of proper ideals and
nourishment from the prophecies. R4257:3
Similar conditions apply now in Christendom. The people are
hungry and thirsty for spiritual food and drink. R4257:3
"I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a
thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord." (Amos
8:11) R1896:3, R5113:4
Dried up with thirst -- For explanations and consistency
which their teachers cannot satisfy. R2904:6
Isaiah 5:14
Therefore hell -- Sheol, oblivion. Israel, having

completely lost prestige having become as though dead.
E369; R1896:3, R2599:5, R4257:4
Not the hell of eternal torment. R5113:4
Enlarged -- The gratification of the fallen flesh has greatly
enlarged the tomb-many more die prematurely. R3893:3
During the time of trouble the grave will specialty enlarge to
take into it the octopus system of Babylon with its many
arms-financial, political, social and religious. R2905:1
The time of trouble approaching will mean the loss of much
life. "Unless those days should be shortened, there should no
flesh be saved." (Matt. 24:22) R5113:4
He that rejoiceth -- Thousands shall fall, including those
who have once rejoiced in faith. R4257:4
Descend into It -- Increase of death rate in the poor classes
of Israelites. R4257:4
The hopes of many in spiritual Israel are going down into
oblivion-faith is perishing among the people. R4257:4
The great systems of Christendom shall go into oblivion.
R1896:4
Isaiah 5:15
The mean man -- Who now selfishly exalts himself,

regardless of others. R1896:4
Shall be humbled -- In the great leveling processes of the
Day of the Lord. R1896:4
Isaiah 5:16
Exalted In judgment -- This will be the outcome of the

Sanctified in righteousness -- Bring in righteousness,
cause it to predominate. R3893:4
Isaiah 5:17
Of the fat ones -- Of the rich. R1896:5

Shall strangers eat -- The Lord will espouse the cause of
the poor and needy. R1896:5
The goodly portion, spiritual favors, were bestowed upon us,
Gentiles, aliens. R3893:4
Isaiah 5:18
Woe -- In the present life. An expression of sympathy, not

a threat of future tribulation. R3893:4 The "woe" time will be
the great time of trouble. R3894:2
Unto them -- Especially to the prominent ones (teachers)
of Babylon. R2905:1
Cords of vanity -- Self-conceit, supposing that they are
hastening the Lord's work. R2905:1
Falsehood, in carrying forward their inequitable schemes.
R4257:4
And sin -- Especially lying and hypocrisy. R1896:5
With a cart rope -- The poor groaning creation is as a
slave bound to sin by a "cart rope;" it is so strong that he
cannot break it. R3893:5
Isaiah 5:19
That say -- "If there be a God, and if he have the power,

would he not long ago have exerted it? May we not,
therefore, go onward in the way of sin with impunity?"
R3893:5
By their conduct. R1896:5
Let him -- The Lord. R1896:5
Make speed -- Thus, in unbelief, they scoff at the truth
now due. R1896:5
That we may see It -- The fact that the Lord has been
lifting the veil of ignorance from the world and permitting
greater blessings is influencing many to turn to Evolution and
conclude that man did not fall. R3893:5
Draw nigh and come -- They claim to be in full accord
with the Lord and ready for his Kingdom if he had one, or if it
ever will come. R4257:5
Isaiah 5:20
Woe unto them -- Satan and his associates and servants.

E189; F199
Especially the clergy. R3894:1
Not that the founders of the counterfeit systems intentionally
organized them for the purpose Of misleading the people of
God. F199
That call evil good -- Calling God's good "evil" and God's
righteousness "sin." R1800:4
Sin is a terrible malady, and it is as improper to call it a
blessing as cholera or smallpox. R849:4
As do they who say that the evil in men is the working of God
in him. R1778:2, R1269:1, R848:2
Considering the evils of our time as nothing, as really good in
comparison with the past. R3893:6
Thus making it easy to do evil and difficult to do good. E189
The have called the evil things which they practice good.
R4257:5
As some who conclude that they are as much saved and as
much loved as the saints, while they are yet in their sins and
rebellion against God. R1253:5
"Let no man say, when he is tempted, I am tempted of God;
for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any
man." (Jas. 1:13) R1269:1
And good evil -- Imputing evil to God, whose work is
perfect. R1778:2, R1269:1
Calling truth and equity nonsensical. R4257:5
The good of the past they are disposed to reckon as evil,
imperfect. R3893:6
Darkness for light -- Teaching Evolution and eternal
torment as gospel. R3015:2, R2905:2
Satan's favorite method of operating. R5183:6, R5053:4
Is it any wonder that "my people perish for lack of
knowledge." (Hos. 4:6) R2693:4
Light for darkness -- False teachers warn the people
against the truth, as poison. R2905:4
Bitter for sweet -- Truth is sweet. R4257:5
Sweet for bitter -- Error-that which Babylon calls gospel
is bad tidings. R4257:5, R2905:2
The bitter dose of eternal torment is misnamed sweet,
heavenly truth. R2905:4
Isaiah 5:21
Them that are wise -- "The wisdom of this world is

foolishness with God." (1 Cor. 3:19) R1896:5
And prudent -- A wisdom and prudence which is of the
earth earthy, sensual, devilish. R4257:5
Isaiah 5:22
Woe unto them -- In the time of trouble now near at hand.

R3894:2
Mighty to drink wine -- Greedily imbibe the spirit of the
world while still professing to be God's people. R1896:5
Men of strength -- Of intellect and influence. R1896:5
Special condemnation to those who are the public leaders and
promulgators of false doctrines. R1444:4
Mingle strong drink -- Mingle the world's ideas and
doctrines and customs with a little of the truth, perverted and
misused and so associated with error as not to be understood.
R1896:6
Isaiah 5:23
Which -- Clergy of Christendom, in their funeral orations.

R3894:1, R2905:5
Justify the wicked -- Preach them into heaven. R2905:4
Defend the wicked, erroneous, God-dishonoring creeds; thus
perverting the truth. R3894:2, R1896:6
For reward -- For increased influence in the family or
denomination. R2905:4
For popular approval, denominational standing, the honor of
men, financial emoluments, social interest. R1896:6,
R3894:2
And take away -- To say all manner of evil against them
falsely- or, at least, to imply evil. R2905:4
The righteousness -- Misrepresent those who hold the
truth. R1896:6, R2905:4
Of the righteous -- Of those who come out of Babylon.
R2905:4
Isaiah 5:24
Therefore -- Verses 24 to 30 show the mighty power

which caused the fall of the Jewish polity and describe the
great time of trouble now impending. R4257:1, R2905:5
Isaiah 5:25
The hills -- The governments. D551

Isaiah 5:26
And he -- Possibly the concluding verses refer particularly

to the United States. R2327:5
Isaiah 5:27
Nor stumble -- The Millennial age "highway of holiness,"

free from stumbling stones. (Isa. 35:8, 9) R3026:5
Isaiah 5:28
Like a whirlwind -- Symbol of the time of trouble. D528;

R1896:6
Isaiah 5:30
Roaring of the sea -- The freedom possessed in the United

States is, in the estimation of many of the potentates of
Europe, like the raging of anarchy. R2327:6
Unto the land -- The social structure. R2327:6
In the heavens -- In the nominal church. R2327:6
Isaiah 6
Isaiah 6:1
In the year -- When Isaiah was commissioned to announce

the fall of Israel. R2379:2
I saw Isaiah, representing the living saints. R530:4
The vision was given to Isaiah to encourage him and to lead
him to volunteer to be the bearer of a new and difficult
message. R2371:1
Present Truth, now provided by our present Lord, affords his
faithful a waking vision of the Lord's glory never conceived
of before through the eye of faith. R2372:4
The Lord -- Adonai, Jesus, "The Messenger of the
Covenant." (Mal. 3:1) E48
Upon a throne -- Representing the majesty of God, his
greatness and glory. R2371:1
The vision is a prophecy of the future establishment of the
Kingdom of God during the Millennium. R2371:2
Instead of the Holy and Most Holy and their furnishings.
R4787:2
High and lifted up -- The representative of Jehovah might
well be saluted with praise in the name of the Father whom he
represented. E48
In the light of his glory, the majesty and tinsel grandeur of
earthly kings will be veriest dross. R2371:2
His train -- Of followers. R4787:2
The temple -- The Christ. T70
The Temple at Jerusalem, otherwise called the house of
Jehovah, was the scene of the vision. R4787:2
Isaiah 6:2
The seraphims -- Supporting, or carrying the throne or

chariot of Jehovah, as in Ezek. 1:5-16 and Ezek. 10:1-21.
R529:6*
On either side of him, as representing the divine attributes,
stood the four seraphim. R4787:2
Always connected with the immediate presence or Throne of
God. R529:6*
Fundamental attributes of God: Power, Wisdom, Justice and
Love. R529:6*, R2372:4
Isaiah 6:3
Cried unto another -- Two of the seraphim. R4787:2

Holy, holy, holy -- Repeating the word has an intensifying
effect, signifying superlatively holy, most holy. R2371:2
Indicating that all of God's attributes are in perfect harmony.
R530:4*, R2372:4
Is the LORD -- Jehovah, represented by "The Messenger."
E48
The whole earth -- Had Israel accepted Jesus as the King
of glory at his first advent, the Kingdom would have been
established forthwith with them. R4787:2
Full of his glory -- "The earth shall be filled with the
knowledge of the glory of the Lord." (Hab. 2:14) B99
Only from the prophetic standpoint, for it has never yet been
true. The earth is now full of sin, violence and every evil
work. R2371:2
Isaiah 6:4
The posts of the door -- The Jewish nation, the doorway

to this glory. R4787:3
Moved -- The shaking of anything, in a typical sense,
represents its instability, its removal. The Jewish nation was
removed from its favored position. R4787:3
Indicating the unreadiness of the world to receive the
message. R4787:3
Filled with smoke -- An obscuring haze filled the Temple,
dimming the glory indicating an unpreparedness for the glory
of the Lord. R4787:2
Isaiah 6:5
Woe is me! -- Lamenting his own unholiness, imperfection

and unworthiness. R2371:3
Those who see the divine glories, majesty and perfection most
distinctly feel their own blemishes, shortcomings and
unworthiness more than do others. R2371:3
Whoever has a deep humility of heart, knowing of his own
demerits and of God's perfection, can be blessed in the divine
service. R2371:3
I am undone -- This was the effect of Jesus' teaching upon
the holy ones of Israel who received his message. They
humbled themselves before the Lord, acknowledging their
unfitness to be teachers. R4787:5
Of unclean lips -- The Jewish nation, and all others, were
imperfect; and any message they would carry would be
imperfect. R4787:5
Have seen the King -- Jehovah, represented by the
"Messenger." (Mal. 3:1) E48
Jehovah, the King above all kings, ultimately to be revealed to
the whole world. R2371:1
Just such a view and message is now granted to the Lord's
servants who see the divine character of wisdom, justice, love
and power as never before. R2372:4
Isaiah 6:6
A live coal -- Enkindling the Gospel age invitation,

"Present your bodies living sacrifices." (Rom. 12:1) R4787:6
The altar -- Of sacrifice. R4787:6
Isaiah 6:7
Touched thy lips -- You, Isaiah, shall be granted powers

of speech and words beyond your natural ability, inspired by
the Lord. R2371:4
Some today have the opportunity of being mouthpieces of
God by being touched with an antitypical coal-the
consecration of the great sacrifice. R2372:4
When the hot coal touches our lips, we are ready to answer,
"Send me." R530:4*
The saintly ones during this Gospel age have had the required
blessing upon their lips. R4787:5
Iniquity is taken away -- The message of Rom. 12:1 has
not only taught a cleansing from sin, but a service to God.
R4787:6
Isaiah 6:8
Voice of the Lord -- Adonai, the "Messenger," Christ.

(Mal. 3:1) E48
Whom shall I send -- God has sent the invitation to
sacrifice to all who have an ear to hear. R4787:6
Here am I -- The sanctified, typical of God's holy people.
R4787:6
Send me -- All soldiers of the cross must be volunteers-none
will be drafted. R2371:5
These pray that the Lord will grant them a privilege of doing
all that their talents will fit them to do in his service. R2371:5
Isaiah 6:9
And he said -- Quoted by the Lord Jesus and the Apostle

Paul as further applicable to Israel at the first advent to the
sending of salvation to the Gentiles. (Matt. 13:13-17; John
1:12; Acts 28:16-31; Rom 11:5-11) R2371:6, R1435:3*,
R1742:1
Since natural Israel is a type of nominal spiritual Israel, we
find a somewhat similar message due to the spiritual house
now in the end of this age. R2371:6
Understand not -- The message of this Isaiah class would
be unpopular, resented, not favorably received. R2372:1,
R4787:6
"That seeing they may see and not perceive; and hearing they
may hear and not understand." (Mark 4:12) R1742:1
For delivering this message, tradition says Isaiah was sawn
asunder. R2371:6
Isaiah 6:10
Make the heart -- "Declare fat the heart of this people, its
ears heavy, its eyes dazzled, etc." (Young's translation)
R530:5*
Isaiah 6:11
How long? -- Israel's experiences are used as the

measuring line to show when the completion of the Church
will be accomplished. R4787:6
Isaiah 6:12
Removed men -- Not long after, the ten tribes were carried
away into captivity; Judah's share in the captivity coming
about 150 years later. R2371:6
Isaiah 6:13
Holy seed -- The Ancient Worthies, the earthly

representatives of Messiah's Kingdom. R4788:1
To these princes will be gathered the faithful, loyal, holy of
the Jews. R4788.4
Isaiah 7
Isaiah 7:2
With the wind -- Ruach, invisible power. E174
Isaiah 7:14
A sign -- Christ strikingly fulfilled this prediction.

R350:1*
Bear a son -- Its partial fulfillment (8:3 and 8:8) is no
argument against its application to Mary. (Matt. 1:23)
R436:2
Call his name Immanuel -- Is it objected that Mary's son
was called Jesus and not Immanuel? Many names, as well as
many offices, are his. The church in general has recognized
him by the name Immanuel for 1800 years. R436:4
Isa. 9:6, 7 seems to be a continuation of this prophecy.
R452:3
This expression is used in a prayer offered by the Jews at
their wailing place in Jerusalem. C277
Isaiah 7:15
Butter and honey -- Representing good and evil, but not

evil deeds. R444:1*
Shall he eat -- There were many ways he ate, or
experienced evil; Lazarus' death caused him to sorrow and the
hard-heartedness of the Jews caused him to "groan in spirit."
(John 11:33) R444:1*
Refuse the evil -- Jesus felt the evils of sin without
sinning. He suffered on account of others. R444:1*
Isaiah 8
Isaiah 8:3
I went -- The prophet represented Jehovah. R436:4

The prophetess -- Representing the virgin Mary. R436:4
Bare a son -- The typical fulfillment of Isa. 7:14, R436:2
Maher-shalal-hash-baz -- Representing Jesus. R436:4
Isaiah 8:9
Associate yourselves -- Unite. R1079:5

Religiously, financially and politically. R1385:1
New schemes are being formed to unite the people behind
denominational fences on other than doctrinal lines. R1546:2
The clergy desire union at any cost. R1548:4
A union would give prestige to indefensible doctrines and
greater political power, leading ultimately to the suppression
of truth as unsettling to peace. R3372:2
Speaking more of religious unity than of Christian unity-with
Jesus taking his place in the companionship of Guatama,
Confucius and Zoroaster. R1546:6*
A false Christian, or religious, union. R1874:3
It is the tares that are to be bundled, gathered together for a
great trouble time. R5443:2, R3877:4
The spectacle of Christendom today is unique-on the one
hand the natural tendency of disintegrating elements is
conspicuous; while, on the other, the artificial tendency to
unity is very pronounced. R1548:2
Of far countries -- Heathen. R1548:5
Gird yourselves -- Bind yourselves together for mutual
protection. R1875:2; D239
Broken in pieces -- The seeming successful union will be
of short duration. R1079:5
For the Scriptures indicate most distinctly that the trouble of
this "Day of Wrath" will be anarchy." every man's hand
against his neighbor." OV59:6
Such ecumenical assemblages as the World Parliament of
Religions, rightly viewed, are another manifestation of the
faithlessness of Christendom. D238
Isaiah 8:10
Counsel together -- Kings and rulers who have banded

themselves together to oppose the execution of God's plan.
R1385:2
Speak the word -- For unity. D239
Shall not stand -- The very nature of an organization of
such heterogeneous elements must be self-destruction.
R1874:3
Isaiah 8:12
Say ye not -- The Lord's faithful, consecrated people are

warned against having any part in any church federation.
R3877:1, R5443:2, R1741:4, R1754:4, R4611:1, R4747:1
The work now is not organization, but division, as it was in
the Jewish Harvest. D610; R1743:5
The forming of a commune of believers is opposed to the
purpose and methods of this Gospel age. God's people should
not shut themselves up in convents, cloisters or communities.
R1862:6; D480
Church federation or confederacy is quite a different thing
from the Church's oneness. OV234:6
The forming of a visible organization of the gathered out ones
in the Harvest would be out of harmony with the spirit of the
divine plan. R1743:5
God's saintly people need no outward federation, even as they
need no creedal fences. OV190:6
We should not stop merely with an outward federation, but
rather unite our hearts, heads and hands along the lines of the
divine promise. OV237:7 OV240:8, OV242:7, OV247:5
Like John the Baptist, we must, by our teaching and example,
declare unlawful the proposed and sure-to-come union
between church and civil government. R1754:4
A confederacy -- A league or covenant, a compact or
alliance for mutual support or common action. R601:1*
Church federation. R1573:1, R4611:1, R5443:2; OV187:2
Including:(1) Hypocrites; (2) Moralists; (3) Indifferents; (4)
Followers afar off; and (5) Saints-with Moralists and Higher
Critics dominating and the saintly few eventually becoming
separated from the nominal mass. OV190:3-5; CR80:1
Including not only church organizations, but all the various
societies and unions which tie men up together in bundles
today as never before. R1828:1
Of all denominations of nominal Christians. HG316:5
The image of the beast. R1948:1
Federated Protestants, vitalized through association with the
Episcopal Church, with the Roman Catholic Church as the
other side of the scroll. R4110:4; OV244:7
In every direction- ecclesiastical, political, social and
financial. As there were giants in the earth before the flood,
so there are to be giant institutions before the great time of
trouble breaks into cataclysm. OV60:T
Has not come along so rapidly as we might have expected but
we may be sure there is no real delay. R4611:2
Now near at hand. R4735:5, R5063:2
Broad enough to include all grades of outwardly moral
people-Protestants, Catholics, Jews, Brahmins and
Mohammedans. R1079:5
This is an age of unions and confederations. Every
department of the commercial world is being bound together.
The church, in its worldly condition, is unable to resist this
trend. R3864:5*
A reign of the churches, counterpart to that of Papacy during
the Dark Ages, except more enlightened. R2091:6
Will result in ecclesiastical arrogance and persecution.
CR81:5
Soon we will have their union or confederacy. Its bitter fruits
of error will manifest themselves in tyranny, as during the
Dark Ages. R3396:1
Perhaps more than merely church federation, but also of
societies and unions. R1828:1, R4747:2
The desire to join such "confederacies" is a part of the spirit
of our day, against which we are forewarned. D481
Typified by the union between King Herod, representative of
the world power of that time, and Herodias, his unlawful
wife, representing the ecclesiastical power of Christendom.
R1754:4
It is along doctrinal lines that the sacrificing in the interests of
federation will be chiefly demanded. OV235:1; CR68:6
The rejection of the holy Spirit lies at the foundation of every
church federation which has blighted the prosperity of the
church during her history. R3864:2*
This people -- Those who think that this federation is the
divine arrangement will be opposed to those who do not
accept it. R4611:1
Neither fear ye -- The Lord's people are to understand that
their safety is not dependent upon human power. R4747:2
Their fear -- That, unless a federation is formed, the
whole religious system will go to pieces and God's purposes
will fail of being accomplished. R4611:1, R4747:1
Fear, a realization of weakness, is at the bottom of the desire
for union at the expense of truth. R3372:2
Nor be afraid -- Fear not man; but dread to displease God.
R5443:2
Isaiah 8:13
Sanctify the LORD -- Jehovah. E49

Wherever the sanctifying of the truth goes, there true union
goes proportionately. Not worldly or denominational union,
for the truth separates from such, uniting children of the truth
to each other and to their Head--our Lord. R3372:3
Let him be your fear -- Fear nothing except what would
be displeasing to God. SM332:1, R1788:6
All other fears are tormenting; but the fear or reverence of the
Lord is comforting, helpful and safe for us. CR9:1
Under present circumstances it is a question of whether we
will fear the world or fear "Him." CR9:2
Isaiah 8:14
And he -- Our Lord Jesus, not Jehovah, nor Isaiah. E49
For a sanctuary -- To the sheep that hear his voice.

R602:6*
Only a remnant in the Harvest of each dispensation is
prepared to receive the truths due and enter into the special
privileges of the dawning dispensation. B26, B229
But -- Because unprepared to receive him in the way he
came, and because of the cross. B241, B215
Stone of stumbling -- Over the cross. Higher Criticism is
undermining true faith, and Evolution theories are making the
cross of Christ of none effect. R3298:5
The great fundamental rock-doctrine of the redemption
through the precious blood of Christ. R1255:2, R1649:3,
R3332:4, R4927:1, R1452:2
The manner of Christ's coming and the establishment of his
Kingdom; some expecting an outward display that would
appeal to the natural senses. R176:1, R175:6, R5258:1,
R224:2
Instead of stumbling over this stone, the members of Christ
will be lifted up by it to greater appreciation and higher
conditions. The feet shall not be moved. R5437:6
All but the "very elect" of God will be stumbled by the errors
and worldliness of our day. R5801:6
Only the sanctified in Christ Jesus, the "feet" of the Body of
Christ, shall be upheld that they stumble not. R2647:6
The "feet" of the Body are the last members, the ones now in
danger of being stumbled. R5816:6, R4927:1, R3332:4
The fleshly house failed to recognize his presence in the
flesh; the spiritual house refuses to acknowledge his presence
in a spiritual body. R505:5*, R515:5, R681:6
While looking for Messiah, they failed to recognize him
because of the manner and object of his coming. R821:6*
Because they made void the Law of God through giving heed
to traditions. (Mark 7:9, 13) B241
Because of their pride. B215
The Papal apostacy, claiming Peter as the stone on which the
church is built. R813:1*, R1525:1
To some who claim that the death of Christ was either for
himself, or as an example of how each must save himself.
R1255:2
"He (Jehovah) shall give his angels charge over thee to keep
thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands,
lest thou dash thy foot against a stone." (Psa. 91:11, 12)
R288:1, R757:6, R1268:2
To both the houses -- The nominal Jewish house and the
nominal Christian house. B26, B229; R228:3, R1452:2,
R3964:4, R5817:1, R175:1
The fleshly of the Jewish age and the spiritual of the Gospel
age stand related to each other as type to antitype. R1983:1,
R5092:2
Cannot refer to the ten and the two tribes, for that was a split
in the one house or family of Israel. R862:5
Isaiah 8:15
Shall stumble -- Over Jesus. R4942:6

Over the truth. R601:6*
Be turned aside from divine favor. R4942:5
And fall -- Backward. R4942:6
The rejection of the nominal fleshly house was necessary so
that the call could go to the Gentiles. The nominal spiritual
must fail that the true might be manifested. R177:6
Some who are really children of God will fall with Babylon.
R177:5
And be broken -- Their faith shattered and broken.
R601:6*
While the fleshly house will be restored, the Babylon church
will never be restored. R177:6
Be snared, and be taken -- In the snare of the Adversary.
A great flood of infidelity will engulf the church nominal.
R601:6*
Isaiah 8:16
Seal the law -- To those consecrated and separate from the

world, the Law and the testimony are precious; but none of
the unfaithful shall understand their import. R601:6*
Among, my disciples -- Jesus' disciples; not Jehovah's, nor
Isaiah's. E49
Consecrated class. R2072:4
Isaiah 8:17
And I -- Christ Jesus. E49

Wait upon the LORD -- Jehovah. E49
The house of Jacob -- Natural Israel. A300
Isaiah 8:18
Behold I -- Christ Jesus. E49

Whom the LORD -- Jehovah. E49
Hath given me -- Christ Jesus. E49
Isaiah 8:19
Seek unto them -- It is still true that he that seeketh

findeth, and the thing sought is generally the thing found.
R3742:1
Some get themselves into serious difficulties through
curiosity, which leads them to either spiritualistic seances or
to have private communication with these fallen ones.
R2582:1
Since the fallen angels have been barred from materialization
they have sought to otherwise influence humanity. PD42/52
By getting possession of their wills. R4976:2
Have familiar spirits -- Demons that infest earth's
atmosphere. Q840:2, Q804:3
Spirit mediums. R265:6, R1688:5
We are not informed regarding the power used by the fallen
angels in their miracle workings and cures, but we know that
it is not from God. R5800:1
Wizards -- Mediums. Q840:2
That peep, and that mutter -- Who pretend to have
communication with the dead. R4976:2
Seek unto their God? -- For counsel. R3742:1
And have nothing whatever to do with these "seducing
spirits." R2180:4; HG726:1
For the living to the dead? -- On behalf of the living,
should they seek unto the dead? R2189:6
For why should the living go to the dead? R265:6 Because
the Scriptures teach that when a man is dead he knows not
anything, and will never know anything until the resurrection
of the dead. SM197:T
The living are forbidden to make any attempt to communicate
with the dead. B126; Q839:2
Few would communicate with the fallen angels if they knew
their real character; hence they represent themselves as being
our dead friends and relatives. PD42/52; Q804:3
Isaiah 8:20
To the testimony -- The Bible. R266:1, R3210:6; A163;

D66; E167
With a disposition to prove the testimony. F232
It is our duty as Christians to individually prove all things that
we accept. D66; R3104:4
Cutting and drifting away from the creeds and theories of
men. R3945:1
We have no intimation in the Scriptures that the spirit of God
leads his children through any other medium than that of his
Word. R614:2
To be established in the Present Truth signifies that I have
carefully studied and thoroughly proved it by the Law and the
testimony. R1627:2*, R3089:2
Many doctrines in the catechisms and the creeds have no
foundation in the Bible. R1136:5
"He that seeketh findeth." (Matt. 7:8) E167
If they speak not -- The early Church rightly reverenced
the knowledge and wisdom of the apostles, yet not with
blank, unquestioning minds, but with a disposition to try the
spirits and prove the testimony. R1524:4
While the Church needs teachers to understand God's Word,
yet the Church individually each by himself and for himself,
and himself only, must fill the office of judge, to decide
whether his teaching be true or false. R1136:1
The Lord might use dreams to instruct and guide his people,
but a dream must never lead in opposition to the written Word
of God. R3144:1
The thoughts of ancient time are to be weighed and tested, as
well as those of modern times, by the one standard-the Divine
Revelation. R3737:3
Suggestions from the students of the Book of Nature must be
compared carefully with the Book of Divine Revelation.
A163
As in the case of the declarations of scientists. A163
Theories which find it necessary to deceive and misrepresent
and shun the light of full investigation are not of God. Prove
them by the "Law and the testimonies," beginning at the
foundation. R867:3
Every doctrine should, from the foundation up, step by step,
be brought to the test of the Word and the testimony. All for
which there cannot be found a "Thus saith the Lord" must be
promptly rejected, and all to which his Word testifies as truth
"held fast." R1206:2
As in the case of the eternal torment theory. R2597:3
As in the case of the Sunday School when it displaces the
Christian parent as the preceptor of his children. F547
As in the case of modern miracles of healing. F638, F639
According to this word -- The value of all other books is
in proportion to their fidelity to the teachings of this Book of
books. R3210:6
Especially the writings of the apostles. F222
While prompt to acknowledge the channels and agencies
honored by the Lord in bringing to our attention the things of
his Word, let us never forget that the Word itself is the final
arbiter. R1882:6, R2412:1, R4003:6
The first test of relationship to the Lord is that of faithfulness
to him and his Word. R4480:4
We are to accept only such assistance as will aid us in
appreciating the inspired message. F61
It is by the Word of God that we are judged and not by the
opinions or precedents of our fellow-men in any capacity.
D66; F547
God warns people not to believe anyone whose teachings are
contrary to the Word, no matter what powers they may
exercise. R266:1
Learn to discern between fact and theory, and to make no
positive statement except that which can be proved by the
Bible to be truth-fully warranted and established. R4716:6*
The tendency of human thought seems to go from one
extreme to the other; hence the need of a divine revelation to
guide our judgments-especially on religious subjects.
R2323:3
While not opposing scientific investigation, let us carefully
compare their deductions with the Book of Divine Revelation-the
Bible. An accurate knowledge of the teachings of both
books will be harmonious. R737:2
The great mass of Satan's delusions will be seen to be
spurious by noting that they are out of accord with the
fundamental doctrine of the ransom-the touchstone of divine
truth. F639, F640
There Is no light -- No truth. A20
They are not of God. F547
In those that handle the Word of God deceitfully. R3188:4
Whatever doctrine is not based upon the Word of God is to be
rejected. R5099:5, R266:1; HG717:3
It is the Ecclesia's responsibility not to vote for such, nor in
any manner accept them as teachers or elders. F278
Those who follow such teachers as have "no light" are sure to
get further and further into darkness. R2801:2
Isaiah 8:21
Hungry -- Those who have neglected the "Law and the

testimony," God's Word, and give heed to the doctrines of
demons, suffer the pangs of regret because there is nothing to
satisfy their cravings for enlightenment. Q840:2
Isaiah 9
Isaiah 9:1
Nevertheless -- This verse should property be the last

verse of chapter 8 (Leeser). R2550:1, R3686:1
The dimness shall not -- There will be no gloom (RV).
R3468:2
Be such as was -- Omit these words (RV). R3468:2
In her vexation -- In her that was in anguish (RV).
R3468:2
Zebulun and ... Naphtali -- The names of the principal
districts of Ephraim. R3468:2
Grievously afflict -- Hath he made it glorious. R3468:2
In Galilee -- Jesus did most of his mighty works in these
lands of Zebulun and Naphtali, called Galilee. R3468:3,
R5135:5
Of the nations -- Of the Gentiles. In Isaiah's time Galilee
had been denuded of its Jewish population and had been
settled by Gentile emigrants. R3468:3
Subsequently, outside of the Samaritan district, Galilee
became repopulated by the Jews. R3468:3
Isaiah 9:2
The people -- Applicable, first, to the people of Galilee;

but also to all peoples who have had the eyes of their
understanding opened during this Gospel age. R3468:5
Walked In darkness -- Galilee, separated from the great
religious center of their day, was in greater darkness than
their brethren. R4557:1
The world has walked in the darkness of ignorance and
superstition for 6,000 years. R1746:3
Seen a great light -- Of divine truth. Local fulfilment was
in Galilee, in the ministry of Jesus; but the real fulfilment lies
in the future Millennial Kingdom. R5135:3, R2550:1
Which flared forth in Galilee, where the people were more
amenable to the teachings of Jesus than many of their
brethren in Judea. R4557:1
The light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of
Jesus Christ." (2 Cor. 4:6) R2550:2
"The Sun of Righteousness shall arise." (Mal 4:2) R3686:1
Shadow of death -- Fleshly Israel, under the condemnation
of their Law covenant. R1746:6
The death-darkness that was upon the Gentiles. R4557:1
On the whole world, ever since the first transgression in
Eden. "I walk through the valley of the shadow of death."
(Psa. 23:4) R3468:6
In the deadly shade, properly a title of hades; those who are in
hades, in darkness. R3686:4
The light shined -- Will shine with special brilliancy first
on fleshly Israel. R1746:6
As a lamp, to the class that now walk with the Lord. R3468:6
The light must shine upon every member of our race: "The
true Light which (ultimately) lighteth every man that cometh
into the world." (John 1:9) R3686:4
Isaiah 9:3
Thou hast multiplied -- Israel; a reference to their

gathering together again as a nation after the long dispersion;
and the resurrection of their Ancient Worthies. R1747:1,
R3469:2
Nominal spiritual Israel has phenomenally increased, but
there are many false children (tares) there. R5135:6
Multiplication by resurrection of the world of mankind during
the Millennium. R3686:5
The nation -- The world of mankind under the new
administration of the Millennial Kingdom. R2550:3
Not -- Omit this word (RV, Leeser). R2550:3, R3686:5
Increased the joy -- Their joy in their great deliverance is
not yet accomplished. R3469:2
To the joy -- The hilarious joy. R2550:4
The joy of Israel when the blessings of their restoration to
divine favor are realized. R1747:1
In harvest -- In the midst of plenty. R2550:4
In the Harvest of this age the faithful will rejoice. R5135:6
This is the joy of harvest, and such shall be the Church's joy.
R303:5*
Divide the spoil -- Dividing something which is not theirs
by right, but which has fallen to them as a divine bounty.
R3686:5
Dividing the fruits of victory. R2550:4
Isaiah 9:4
Yoke of his burden -- Satan's yoke of sin, pain, sorrow

and death. R3686:6
The burdensome yoke of creedal superstition will be broken.
R5135:6
And the staff -- Of affliction and slavery. R3686:6
Rod of his oppressor -- The rod of the oppressor, Satan,
will be broken as was Midian's by Gideon and his band.
R5135:6, R536:5
Satan himself will be a captive. R2550:4
The heavy burden of oppression imposed upon Israel and the
persecutions inflicted by their Gentile enemies during their
exile will be broken. R1747:1
The day of Midian -- When Gideon's band, typifying the
Royal Priesthood, by letting their lights shine out, achieved a
great victory upon the hosts of the enemy. R3686:6,
R2550:5, R5135:6
Prefiguring the great victory for truth and righteousness
through a time of trouble, eventuating in the release of all the
oppressed. R3686:6
Picturing the deliverance by which the Lord will bring in the
new dispensation, the hosts of sin being utterly discomfited
by self-destruction in anarchy. R2550:5
The Midianites typified the world, the flesh and the devil.
R4083:2
Isaiah 9:5
For every battle -- Every ordinary battle. R2550:5

But this -- This great time of trouble is described as being
more severe, more intense, than all preceding troubles.
R2550:5
With burning -- The complete destruction of all the
weapons of Satan and his associates. R3687:1
"He maketh wars to cease to the ends of the earth." (Psa.
46:9) R3469:3
Fuel of fire -- A more furious destruction, best likened to a
consuming of fuel in the fire. R2550:5
The world will be cleansed of every evidence of opposition to
the divine government and the law of righteousness. R3687:1
Isaiah 9:6
For -- Because; an explanation of the process by which the

foregoing gracious prophecy of blessing and release from the
oppressor shall be accomplished. R3687:1, R2550:5
Unto us a child -- This prophecy is a continuation of that
in Isa. 7:14--"a virgin shall conceive and bear a son." R452:3
A prophecy of Jesus' birth. B227
The humble beginning and earliest manifestation of the Sun
of Righteousness. R2550:1
Is born -- The prophet takes a future standpoint. B227;
R1970:1
The birth of Jesus was a gift of divine love. R5135:2
A son is given -- The gift of God's dear Son. "God so
loved the world that he gave his Only Begotten Son." (John
3:16) R2550:5, R5135:2
The great heavenly King, the Son of David. SM502:1
The Old Testament associates the works of the first and
second advent together, as if they were one and the same-treating
the Gospel age as a parenthesis. HG52:4
The government -- The right to govern the world is his
since he died on our behalf; but he awaits the Father's time for
taking to himself his glorious power to reign. R5136:1
Upon his shoulder -- The figurative epaulets of authority
and honor will be upon the Lord Jesus. R3469:4
The responsibility falling upon him as a royal mantle from the
heavenly Emperor, Jehovah. R3687:2, R2550:6
His name shall be -- The many titles indicating various
features of his greatness. SM502:1; CR113:4
In the eyes of those who rejected him. R1747:2
During the Millennial age. R3912:5
Called Wonderful -- His is the most wonderful career and
the most wonderful character of which we have any
knowledge. Wonderful was his life amongst men; wonderful
also was his resurrection. R3912:2
He is the most wonderful of all the Heavenly Father's family.
E141
He is eventually to bear many titles in commemoration of the
many wonderful offices he will fill and services he will
accomplish. R5136:1
Wonderful love, condescension and grace, and wonderful
exaltation, glory and power. R1747:4
His revelation to the world will be as the Wonderful One, the
embodiment and expression of divine justice, love, wisdom
and power. R5136:1, R2550:6
Counsellor -- Whose instructions in righteousness will be
respected by all the world of mankind seeking a return to
divine favor and full restitution. R2550:6, R1747:4
The world's instructor. R5136:1
Guide, teacher, miraculous pattern. E46, E141
The leader, guide and instructor of his people. R3912:3
The mighty God -- Very Mighty, Very Great--Mighty,
Mighty One. R1515:4, R5136:1, R296:3
Ruler. "Arise, O God, judge the earth." (Psa. 82:8) E69;
C126
The Father's representative, voice, mouthpiece, the well-beloved
Son whom he has clothed with glory, honor and
immortality and given all power in heaven and in earth.
R3687:3
The whole body of Christ under his headship. R298:4
"Mighty to save." We need such a mighty Savior. "Able to
save unto the uttermost all who come unto the Father through
him." (Heb 7:25) R3912:3
The mighty powerful, and so he is, for to him the Father hath
given all power in heaven and earth. (Matt 28:19; 11:27)
R296:3
If angels were called Elohim, gods, if Elohim signifies a
mighty one, surely he is above the other mighty ones,
properly termed, the mighty Elohim, the one mighty amongst
the mighty. R3912:3
Thus the devout Jews believed that he would set up an earthly
kingdom at the first advent and, when he rode into Jerusalem,
hailed him with glad Hosannas as their king. HG512:5
Everlasting Father -- Father who gives everlasting life.
E141; C126; CR113:4, CR472:2; OVI24:6, OV321:5;
O207:T, R4832:1, R296:5, R5583:5
The successor of Adam, the temporary father of the race, who
failed to give his posterity- life. Q722:1; R3654:5, R3912:5
Age-lasting Father. OV321:5
This, in Hebrew, signifies just what it does in English-a father
forever. R296:5, R1855:2
The word "Savior" in the common language of Palestine,
Syriac, spoken by the Lord and his disciples, means "Life-giver."
(Luke 2:10, 11) R2407:3
He who was cut off childless becomes the everlasting Father.
R1359:5, R1438:5
To all who obey him. R5136:4, R3912:6, R2116:3
Jesus, the successor of father Adam, the regenerator of the
human family. Q722:1; R2833:5; E141, E142
As the giver of restitution life to the world by virtue of his
own merit-his ransom sacrifice. R4556:6, R2833:5
If the Lord Jesus did not possess the right to an earthly life as
an asset he could not regenerate the race. Q444:4; OV46:T
Life-giver of the world in the thousand-year day of the
Messianic Kingdom. R5623:5, R5582:3, R5136:2
The Christ, Head and Body. T102; R298:1
The Church is his Bride and joint-heir, in contradistinction to
the saved of the world of mankind who will be recognized as
the children of Christ. R2652:3
All who would have life in the Millennial age must become
children of Christ, begotten of truth. R1219:2
Of the Ancient Worthies also. "Instead of thy fathers shall be
thy children whom thou mayest make princes in all the earth."
(Psa. 45:16) R4555:2
So Jesse will, in the "Times of Restitution," become the son
of Christ who is called the "Root," or father, of Jesse. (Isa.
11:10) R1352:3
The world will be privileged to come into him, as their
Father, by consecration. F698
"His seed also will I make to endure forever." (Psa, 89:36)
R1936:5
"For the seed of the blessed of the Lord are they, and their
offspring with them." (Isa. 65:23) R4411:5*
This will be the relationship of the great Mediator to all the
people. R4840:6
Not to the Church, who are begotten of the Heavenly
Father. R5136:4, R4840:6, R297:2, R1515:5, R3912:5,
SM780:1
Some imply that the Church will be the mother. "Be thou the
mother of thousands of millions." (Gen. 24:60) PD27/38,
SM348:2
Prince of Peace -- Messiah; Prince who establishes sure
and lasting peace. OV118:4; E141
Not only making peace between God and man by the blood of
his cross; but also by overthrowing all wrong and evil and
establishing peace on the sure basis of holiness. B85
"Ye shall die ... like one of the princes." (Psa. 82:7) F724
The claim that present kingdoms are "kingdoms of our Lord
and his Anointed" is a gross libel upon the true Kingdom and
its "Prince of Peace." A269
The one whose reign will be undisputed and unmolested.
R5136:4
Will not apply at the beginning of his reign when he will be
breaking in pieces every human system out of accord with
divine standards. R5136:4, R3687:4, R3912:6
He will put down, subdue, all enemies, all sin, all
unrighteousness. R3687:4; Q752:T, Q812:2
His glorious reign will bring peace, joy and everlasting rest.
R1747:4, R3912:6
Note the omission of "Jehovah" from these titles. E46
Isaiah 9:7
Of the increase -- The continuous success. R3687:6

The Kingdom will be spreading for the thousand years.
R4974:2, R5183:2
Extending over all the nations and families of the earth.
R453:3
The great redemptive work was the foundation for all his
future work. R5136:1
His government -- The right to rule the world is his since
he died, but he awaits the Father's time for taking to him self
his glorious power to reign. R5136:1
And peace -- His government shall be at peace, and in
control of all. R453:3, R3470:2
Certainly did not come to pass during the eleven centuries of
the Papal vicegerency. R5853:4
Shall be no end -- It will conquer everything before it.
Nothing shall stop it. R4974:2, R5183:2, R5136:4,
R3470:1
Throne of David -- Inheritance and royalty are reckoned
through the mother as well as the father; Jesus' mother was a
daughter of David. R453:1, R944:4
God established his kingdom in the hand of David, first over
Judah (type of all fleshly Israel); and secondly over Israel as a
whole (type of the whole world). R453:6
The Messiah was to be the seed of David, according to the
prophets; and the genealogical records as given by Matthew
and Luke prove that Jesus was the son of David. R944:1
Type of the authority of the glorified Christ; Messiah's
Kingdom. B255; R5136:4
As David sat upon the throne of the kingdom of the Lord, the
greater than David, Messiah, will sit upon
the throne of the Kingdom of Jehovah. R5136:5, R3687:5
To establish It -- It has been overturned ever since the
days of Zedekiah. R3687:4
With judgment -- With punishments for wrong-doing and
rewards for right-doing. R3687:5
Zeal -- Love. R5136:5
Of the LORD -- Jehovah, showing that he is not the one
referred to in the previous verse. E46; R3687:5
Will perform this -- Will accomplish this prophecy;
operating through Messiah. E46; R5136:5
Isaiah 9:15
The head -- Babylon's laws emanate from their heads or

rulers instead of the true Head of the Church. R295:2,
R365:4
Isaiah 9:19
Fuel of the fire -- The Day of Vengeance. D527

Spare his brother -- It used to be considered proper to sell
an enemy bread. Now it is not. This is the spirit of anarchy
and it will spread from nations to individuals. OV419:4
Isaiah 10
Isaiah 10:5
The rod of mine anger -- Divine authority. R4058:4

The Lord used the enemies of Israel to chastise them.
R4199:5
Isaiah 10:22
A remnant of them -- In the Harvest of the Jewish age.

B70; R2948:1
To whom favor was increased during the last three and a half
years of the seventy weeks. B70
Only a remnant would prove worthy of the covenant favor,
the rest, blinded by their pride and hardness of heart.
R1795:1; B215; OV96:2
The same is true today. The preachers of Babylon need have
little fear that the true Gospel will affect the majority of their
hearers in the least. R2948:1
Isaiah 10:26
Slaughter of Midian -- Typifying the world, the flesh and

the devil. R4083:2
Isaiah 11
Isaiah 11:1
Stem of Jesse -- The genealogical records prove him to be

the son of David. The prophets foretold that the Messiah was
to be the son of Jesse and David. R944:1
And not as the root out of David, because David himself is a
type of Christ, his name signifying beloved. R2372:6
Here the Lord pictures natural Israel as entirely cut off,
leaving nothing behind but the root of divine promise.
R2372:6
And a Branch -- When Jesus became a man. R809:6
The new spiritual shoot out of the Abrahamic promise.
R2373:2
Our Lord Jesus. R1352:1
Had a fulfilment in Solomon, but only because Solomon was
a type of the greater son of David, who was also the Son of
God. R2372:6
Shall grow -- Gentile governments are often symbolized
by trees, their destruction as the cutting down. Many trees do
not sprout again after being cut down. The Lord speaks of
Israel as a vine, and one peculiarity of the vine is that it seems
to thrive the better as it is pruned. R2373:1
Out of his roots -- After David's genealogical tree had
apparently dried up, new life was to enter one of the roots.
R1663:1*
The root of divine promise, from which shall ultimately come
all the blessings originally promised to Abraham. R2372:6
It is the custom of the vinegrowers of Palestine to cut down
the vine clear to the roots yearly so as to get fresh sprouts.
Thus Israel was cut off from the spiritual promises, except for
the remnant privileged to become members of the house of
sons. R2373:1
Isaiah 11:2
And the spirit -- Not the "ghost," nor a person in any

sense. E169
This prophecy begins with our Lord at the time he reached
manhood's estate, made consecration, was accepted and was
imparted the holy Spirit. R2373:2
The spirit of Christ and of Jehovah comes upon the Body of
Christ from the Head. R2373:3
Jesus received of the Father's spirit unlimitedly, "without
measure," but we, being imperfect, receive it only limitedly.
R2373:4
Rest upon him -- Preparing our Lord Jesus for the grand
office of Royal High Priest for mankind. E52
Each branch in the vine, members of Christ, are likewise
recipients of the holy Spirit through him. R2373:3
The anointing of Christ, antitypical to that of Bezaleel in
Exo. 31:2-5. R4093:1*
Spirit of wisdom -- Typed by the myrrh in the holy
anointing oil. (Exo. 30:23) R4093:1*
God gives wisdom equal to our knowledge and understanding
combined. Wisdom is knowing what to do. R4093.2*
Understanding -- Typed by the cinnamon in the holy
anointing oil. R4093:1*
Of counsel and might -- Counsel here means advice, or
how to do a thing; might here means the ability to perform.
Same as the "workmanship" or deputyship of Exo. 31:2-5.
R4093:3*
After giving us the wisdom to know what to do, God counsels
us how to do it, and gives us the might or ability to perform it.
R4093:3*
Typed by the cassia in the holy anointing oil. R4093:1*
Spirit of knowledge -- Based on his pre-human existence.
"By his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many."
(Isa. 53:11) R2373:3
Making him alert in the use of his knowledge in reverence
and submission to the divine will. R2373:3
Typed by the calamus in the holy anointing oil. R4093:1*
Fear of the LORD -- Reverence for Jehovah. D634; E52
Isaiah 11:3
And shall make him -- The Christ, Head and Body.

D520, D633
As soon as the entire Christ, Head and Body, has been
prepared for the work to be done, then the work itself will be
commenced. R2373:4
Quick understanding -- Christ will have a superhuman
endowment of power by which he shall know the very
thoughts and intents of the heart. R2373:6
A characteristic of those who have cultivated that spirit of
love which "thinketh no evil." (1 Cor. 13:5) R5122:6
He shall not judge -- Accustomed to misgovernment, it
was necessary to give them some assurances that the new
ruling power would have both good motives and possess
superior knowledge and judgment. R2373:5, R5573:2
Sight of his eyes -- Because he has been touched with the
feeling of their infirmities, thus better enabled to succor all
who come to God by him. E52
Hearing of his ears -- He will not need to call up the
testimony of human witnesses, as must all earthly rulers,
however well-intentioned. R1352:1, R2373:6
Isaiah 11:4
With righteousness -- Absolute correctness. D634,

D520; R5573:3; OV351:7
His reign is to be simultaneously a terror to evildoers and the
consolation and joy of all the meek who love righteousness.
R1352:2
The poor -- The poor, the helpless, the despised of the
present time will find in the new King a friend. R2373:6
As a result there shall then be neither rich nor poor, but all
shall be brought to one common level. Q813:4
And reprove -- The rich, in the time of trouble. R2374:2
As soon as a man finds the attempt to commit a robbery will
bring upon him some physical punishment, he will desist.
HG234:5
Equity for the meek -- The meek, the backward, the
modest, will have his special care. R2373:6
The meek who love righteousness will no longer be
oppressed, but shall be exalted and blessed. R1352:2
Doing away with banking and brokerage houses, private
capital, landlords and renting houses. D633
Smite the earth -- The present social order. D549
Somehow the truth is either directly or indirectly to bring
about the smiting of the earth, the "great time of trouble."
R1352:2
Rod of his mouth -- The .judgments which he has already
expressed. R2374:3, R5574:1
Breath of his lips -- Force and spirit of his truth. D19;
R1352:2
Slay the wicked -- Showing that there will be wicked
persons in the earth at the time the Lord's Kingdom is
His reign is to be a terror to evildoers. R1352:2
Isaiah 11:5
Girdle of his loins -- The Messiah will be Jehovah's

faithful, diligent servant. R2374:4, R5574:2
Isaiah 11:6
The wolf also -- Possibly literal, possibly referring to men

of wolf-like disposition. R1649:6, R5574:4
It would be unnecessary to change the disposition of the brute
creation if mankind were to be changed to another nature and
become as angels. R2374:6
The lower animals which have shared in the disorder resulting
from the fall will also share in the restoration of order
accomplished by Messiah. R2374:5, R5574:2, R1352:3
With the lamb -- Possibly literal, possibly referring to men
of lamb-like disposition. R1649:6, R5574:4
And a little child -- An earthly, not a heavenly scene,
referring to the Times of Restitution, and having nothing
whatever to do with the heavenly hopes of the Church.
R2374:6
Shall lead them -- Control them. The original disposition
of the wild animals having been restored to what they were
before men fell and lost control. R2374:6, 1, R152:3,
R5574:3
Isaiah 11:7
Shall eat straw -- No longer eat flesh. R2837:1, R5574:4
Isaiah 11:9
They shall not hurt -- But shall be forcibly restrained

therefrom. D633; R5023:6, R5182:2
For instance, if someone wished to speak evil, paralysis of the
tongue might come upon him merely for the intention, before
he spoke the evil; thus teaching him not to think evil.
Q118:4, Q438:1
The blessedness of the Millennial day could not be imagined,
except Satan be restrained, not permitted to further deceive
humanity. SM105:2
No longer will any evil be licensed; any spiritous liquors or
other harmful thing be made or sold. R3469:6
Every misdeed will be punished as soon as it is determined
upon, before it shall have been put into effect. D633;
R5760:4, R5771:4
By the suppression of Satan and all his institutions of evil--
moral, social and financial--that now hurt mankind. R3469:5,
R4768:1; SM534:2
We may reasonably suppose that, after perfection is reached,
there will be no more accidents nor catastrophes. Q6:T,
R5318:1, R5031:3
"He shall rule them with a rod of iron." (Rev. 2:27) A302
Therefore it is merciful on God's part to destroy the
incorrigibly wicked. R3083:6
"No lion shall be there." (Isa. 35:9) A217
Every improper, injurious and useless thing will be utterly
destroyed. R894:4, R2609:6
The Great Company being the police force, looking out for
the whole people. Q438:1
No radical, permanent results will be reached until Messiah's
Kingdom shall take full control of earth's affairs. R5795:3
At the close of the Millennium. R5694:6
In the perfect condition of humanity, when fully justified, not
only reckonedly, but actually. R1117:2*
Mankind will be compelled to be obedient. SM440:T
Nor destroy -- The microbes of disease and pestilence
shall be restrained. R1771:6
Even human perfection would not bring happiness if
cyclones, tornadoes, blizzards, tidal waves, earthquakes,
famines and pestilences continued. R4768:2
Mountain -- Kingdom. A318; Q5:T, R5182:2, R5574:4,
R5575:4, R5771:4
The stone which smote the image on its feet and afterwards
became a great mountain. R2375:1, R5575:4, R5182:2
Earth shall be full -- At the close of the Millennium.
D656; R5442:2
This is not true in this age. A75; R2610:3, R2520:6,
R4990:3; HG113:5, HG540:6
From the flood of Present Truth which has been rising higher
and higher and will continue to rise. R6015:3*
Caused in part by the telegraph, telephone, improved printing
presses and rapid mail service. R1155:3, R5363:6
Because the whole world of mankind will be under the
instruction of the Lord and his Bride class. R4158:5,
R5461:4, R5780:2
All must come to a clear knowledge of the conditions of life
and death before they can be condemned or justified.
R2117:4
Including all the heathen and all those of imbecile mind and
all infants who have died before they could know of God. It
includes the dead as well as the living. R5575:5, R5407:1
Typified by the giving of sight to blind Bartimaeus. (Mark
10:46-52) R5485:5
Provision for this recovery was made in the divine purpose
before the foundation of the world. R5338:2
Light and truth are yet to be universal. R2633:1*
In that day an intellectual unbelief in Christ and the offer of
salvation will be an impossibility. R1772:3
Because mankind will no longer be invited to accept Christ
and give their hearts in obedience to him, but they will be
compelled to be obedient. CR51:3
With evil restrained and Satan bound. R256:4, R542:2*
This is the very purpose of the Millennial age. HG316:2
Of the knowledge -- Knowledge ocean-deep to every
creature; no longer confined to the spirit-begotten. R4908:6,
R6013:5; SM791:2
Which will not then appear to men as foolish. R2610:1
"Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened and the ears of the
deaf unstopped." (Isa. 3:5) R2432:6, R1988:3, R2408:1
The most wonderful thing the Bible tells us respecting the
New Day is the great intelligence and enlightenment which it
will bring to every creature. SM791:2
Much that we now receive by faith will then be demonstrated
to the world by sight. R2610:2, R553:2
Before the awakened sleepers can be regenerated they must
be brought to a knowledge of the truth. OV382:T
It is the will of God that all men come to the knowledge of the
truth that they may be saved. (1 Tim. 2:4) There can be no
salvation without knowledge. (Rom. 10:14, 15) R2375:2,
R5575:4
Forgiveness of sins and being awakened from death would
profit little if there were not provision for a recovery from
present mental, moral and physical weaknesses. HG443:3
But this knowledge is now coming to people who at heart are
unprepared for it. R5363:6
There will be then upon man a different test--not of faith, but
of works--backed by faith. F113
Then faith will be to a considerable extent different from the
blind faith necessary now. F113
As the "kingdom of darkness" now operates through the
servants of sin along the lines of ignorance, superstition, sin
and death; so the kingdom of light will operate through
earthly agencies in harmony with the principles of
righteousness, truth and knowledge. OV45:2
As the Gospel age is closing and the Messianic age is
dawning, darkness, ignorance, superstition are fleeing and
knowledge is filling the earth. R5363:6
Of the LORD -- The curse shall be rolled away; instead
shall come his blessing, his light. R5338:2, R5780:2;
SM105:2, SM172:2
No conflicting creeds then. R1352:3
"They shall all know me from the least to the greatest." (Jer.
31:34) R1363:6, R3026:3
His knowledge is the power by which the Lord shall
accomplish the blessing of mankind after he has crushed the
power of evil R2375:2
This knowledge is for all who have ever lived. R5407:1;
SM172:2
"God shall have all men to be saved and to come to the
knowledge of the truth." (1 Tim. 2:4) E20; R2519:5
Not the knowledge of mankind, sin or human philosophy.
Life eternal is not gained by a knowledge of astronomy,
geology, mathematics or chemistry--but by the knowledge of
God. HG434:5
The world will be made to know about God's wonderful
character and plan. OV424:1
As we copy our Heavenly Father's character, each additional
step of progress means a clearer knowledge of the Father.
HG434:6
Cover the sea -- Full, broad, ample and ocean-deep.
R1352:3, R2375:3; CR270:4; SM791:2
The blessed truths and principles of Christianity shall then
permeate not only all nations, but all hearts. R624:5*
A downpour of truth and grace will produce a flood of
righteousness and knowledge of the Lord worldwide and
ocean-deep. HG432:2
Isaiah 11:10
In that day -- When he is filling the earth full of the

knowledge of the Lord. R1283:6*
Shall be a root -- Another root, the Ancient Worthies.
R2375:5
Or father of Jesse. Christ is now to be "the everlasting
Father." R1352:3
Christ. R1063:1*
For an ensign -- When Christ is thus exalted in the earth
there will indeed be a great turning to him. R1352:3
Standard for all the people to pattern after. R2375:4
And his rest -- His executive authority and power not
merely established, but permanently established. R1283:5*
His rest is not one of "masterly inactivity," but the very
opposite. His rest is in the strength of his nature, in the
security of his position, in the satisfaction of his work, and in
the certainty of his ultimate and complete success. R1283:6*
Shall be glorious -- Blessedly satisfying; so different from
the miserable resting places now afforded by human creeds.
R1352:4
Isaiah 11:11
It shall come to pass -- Not necessarily after Israel comes

into existence as a nation. R2125:2
In that day -- Judgment day. R433:6*
To recover -- The deliverance from Egypt will seem
insignificant when compared with the great deliverance which
the Lord will accomplish again, the second time. R608:4
The remnant -- The old house of Israel was condemned
and left desolate, a type of the second house. It is from the
remnant of both houses that the new house is formed.
R518:5*
Isaiah 11:12
Shall assemble -- If Israel would repent, the Lord would

return his favor to them. R1496:4
Of Israel ... of Judah -- A statement to cover all Israel, not
merely the two tribes. To guard against any
misunderstanding, both are included. Q354:1
Mentioned separately because this prophecy was written
before all had gone into captivity. R2125:2
Cast off and dispersed mean practically the same. He is going
to count them all in as one nation. Q354:2
Isaiah 11:13
Of Ephraim -- Applied to Christendom. D22
Isaiah 12
Isaiah 12:2
And not be afraid -- "The Lord knoweth how to deliver

the godly." (2 Pet. 2:9) F420
The LORD JEHOVAH -- The name Jehovah is properly
rendered only four times, where it seemed impossible to do
otherwise. Here and in Exo. 6:3; Psa. 83:18 and Isa. 26:4.
E65
This title belongs only to the Father. E41
Isaiah 13
Isaiah 13:1
Burden of Babylon -- The doom of Babylon. HG714:3

Mystic Babylon, Christendom. D26
Verses 1 to 13 are a description of the time of trouble.
R5735:4
The extravagant language used in respect to the fall of
Babylon was made extravagant because the divine testimony
had reference to mystic Babylon more particularly than to
literal Babylon. R2372:5; HG64:1, HG520:5
Isaiah 13:2
Lift ye up a banner -- The standard of the gospel of truth,

divested of the traditional errors that have long beclouded it.
D40
Upon the high mountain -- Among those who constitute
the true embryo Kingdom of God. D40
Exalt the voice -- Earnestly and widely proclaim this truth.
D41
Unto them -- The bewildered sheep of the Lord's flock
who are still in Babylon. D41
Shake the hand -- Motion with the hand--let them see the
power of the truth exemplified, as well as hear its
proclamation. D41
That they -- The true sheep. D41
Go into the gates -- Realize the blessings of the truly
consecrated. D41
Of the nobles -- The heirs of the heavenly Kingdom. D41
Isaiah 13:4
Of a multitude -- Of a tumult. D21

In the mountains -- Kingdoms. B146
A great people -- Contending for real and fancied rights
and liberties. B146
A tumultuous noise -- "The Lord himself shall descend
from heaven with a shout." (1 Thess. 4:16) B145, B147
Mustereth -- He gathers the nations and assembles the
kingdoms to pour upon them his indignation, even all his
fierce anger. (Zeph. 3:8) D528
Host of the battle -- Hosts of the time of trouble. A324;
B146; D528
Isaiah 13:5
To destroy -- Nevertheless his judgment will be for the

world's deliverance; for he wounds to heal. R1869:3
Isaiah 13:7
Every man's heart -- Every mortal's heart. D21
Isaiah 13:8
Be amazed one at another -- Wonder every man at his

neighbor. D21
Shall be as flames -- Red like flames shall their faces
glow. D21
Isaiah 13:9
Day of the LORD -- The Day of Jehovah, which will

accomplish the destruction of Babylon. R1352:6
The day of judgment divides into two parts. First, a "time of
trouble"; and, secondly, a morning, driving away the mists of
superstition. This text is fulfilled in the first of these portions.
R268:4, R34:6*
Cruel -- Direful. D21
Wrath -- "The wrath of God is revealed from heaven
against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men." (Rom.
1:18) R350:4*
Isaiah 13:10
Stars of heaven -- The apostles. D591

The sun -- The Gospel light, the truth, and thus, Christ.
D590
And the moon -- The light of the Mosaic Law. D590
Not cause her light -- Symbolic of a spiritual night.
R268:4, R35:1*
Isaiah 13:11
For their evil -- In aggrandizing the few, heedless of the

cries of the poor and needy. D149
Of the terrible -- Of the tyrants. D22
Isaiah 13:12
A man more precious -- The lives of multitudes will not

then be sacrificed. D149
A man's life. D45
Isaiah 13:13
Shake the heavens -- The powers of spiritual control.

A318
And the earth -- The present organization of society.
C229; A323; D46
Isaiah 13:19
And Babylon -- Verses 16 to 22 evidently referring to

literal Babylon. R2372:5
Symbolic of mystic Babylon. R5092:2
The glory of kingdoms -- Likewise, mystical Babylon, the
great ecclesaistical kingdom, is exalted to power and
dominion and backed, to a considerable degree, by the kings
of the earth, the civil powers. D25
Isaiah 14
Isaiah 14:1
Mercy on Jacob -- Natural Israel. A300
Isaiah 14:4
Of Babylon -- Mystic Babylon, Christendom. D26

The golden city -- The exactress of gold, see margin.
D473
Ceased! -- Gone to sheol, oblivion. Babylon shall be
utterly lost sight of and forgotten. E369
Isaiah 14:7
Earth is at rest -- Will be, as a result of the establishment

of God's Kingdom. R3053:4, R1248:5
Into singing -- The prospect even now puts a new song
into our mouths. R1262:3
Isaiah 14:8
The fir trees -- The Lord's people. R480:5*
Isaiah 14:9
Hell from beneath -- Sheol, oblivion (Margin: grave).

E369; R2599:5
The preface to the Revised Version says that the word "hell"
was left in this passage because of the familiarity of the
passage. Elsewhere they translate "sheol" with either "grave"
or "pit." R829:1*
Learned translators could not agree to render this word
"grave" or "tomb" and left it untranslated. PD29/41
At thy coming -- At the destruction of Great Babylon,
soon. E369
Isaiah 14:11
Pomp is brought down -- Babylon's greatness will soon be

a thing of the past. E369
To the grave -- Sheol, oblivion, not to a burning hell.
E369; R2600:2
Isaiah 14:12
How art thou fallen -- This description primarily fits

Satan's own course, and in a secondary sense is applicable to
the rise and fall of literal Babylon; and in a yet further sense
to the rise and fall of mystic Babylon. F618
From heaven -- God has found it necessary to perform the
unpleasant duties of discipline. In justice he must disown the
disloyal sons and deal with them as enemies. R1833:4
Lucifer -- A glorious angelic being of a high order.
OV306:3; SM63:1; R5843:3
The shining one, God's first opponent. R5896:1
His name was changed to that of Satan, meaning the hater, the
accuser. R5896:1
Primarily Satan, whose existence many deny. F609
Secondarily, applies to literal and mystic Babylon. F618;
R1686:2
Son of the morning -- One of the earliest of creation.
R1642:1, R1686:1
If Satan had known the results of his course, he probably
would not have taken it. R5576:5
Cut down to the ground -- Limited to the earth and
sentenced to final destruction. R1686:3
Cut off from all association with holy beings. R5896:1
Isaiah 14:13
I will ascend -- Ambition is good, but only when it is

based on humility. Any spirit that does not respect God's
wisdom is foolish. R5186:2
Lucifer had long cherished in his heart ambitious designs.
PD15/24; R4928:6, R5665:3
A man has no right to aspire to be an angel, never having been
invited to that position; nor has an angel any right to aspire to
the divine nature, that never having been offered to him.
A189
It was by permitting pride and ambition to gain control of his
heart that Satan became an opponent of God and of
"Whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased." (Luke 14:11)
A189; R5844:5
Ambition is necessary in the Church, as in the world; but it
must not be a selfish ambition for greatness or prominence,
but a loving ambition to serve the Lord and his people, even
the very humblest. F296
He became ambitious to become some great one, thereby
necessitating his abasement; for "pride goeth before
destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." (Prov. 16:18)
R1892:3
Illustrating the principle that no kind of pride is more
detestable in God's sight than pride of the truth. R5001:1
Nothing in the Scriptures indicates that Satan assumed any
evil disposition or opposition to the Almighty prior to his
seduction of our first parents. This was the time of Satan's
temptation and fall into sin. R2839:6, R1678:1
Into heaven -- Power of spiritual control. A318; R1686:2
Exalt my throne -- Authority and rulership. A92
Satan thought to exalt himself; Jesus, to humble himself.
R5186:2; E80
Above -- A position already filled by the only begotten
Son of God. R1686:2
The stars of God -- Others of the sons of God. F297,
R1686:2
Satan wanted to be higher than the other angels, their captain
and leader. SM95:1; R5955:4, R1515:2, R4928:6;
OV15:3; PD15/24
Upon the mount -- The Kingdom. F618
Of the congregation -- God's people. F618
Sides of the north -- The Pleiades, in the north, long
esteemed the center of the universe, the Throne of Jehovah.
F618
The farthest end of the north-universal dominion. R1686:2
Isaiah 14:14
Like the most High -- A monarch, or king, over the human

family. E113; R2839:6, R1678:1; OV15:3; SM63:1;
PD15/24
His peer, his equal. R4928:6, R1515:2
Not to take Jehovah's place, but to establish a rival dominion.
CR425:6; OV15:3; SM63:1, SM95:1
Indicating a covetous, selfish, presumptuous, ambitiously
proud spirit, in opposition to God. R5665:3, R5955:4,
R5183:3, R5001:2; SM63:1; OV298:4
The ambition to become ruler seems to have developed as he
beheld the first human pair with their procreative powers,
reasoning that if he could control this man he should have
dominion over all his offspring. R1678:1; PD15/24;
SM63:1, SM95:1; Q826:T; HG593:6
He thought that if he had an empire of his own he could
improve upon the divine order of things. OV306:3
"As God is the Emperor of the entire universe, I should like to
be the Emperor of some quarter of it where I might reign
supreme and work out my own schemes and plans." Q826:T
He would prefer to be a monarch of happier subjects than the
"groaning creation" and is thus willing to become a reformer
in all particulars but one--his ambition must be gratified.
E113
Satan's claim is contrasted with Jesus', who did not claim
equality or aspire to a usurpation of God's authority. (Phil.
2:6, Diaglott) R1686:2, R369:3, R5844:5, R1515:2
The very exaltation which Satan sought and failed to reach by
pride and rebellion is, in substance, obtained by the chief
messenger who humbled himself and has now been exalted to
the divine nature. R490:3
A man has no right to aspire to be an angel, never having been
invited to that position; nor has an angel the right to aspire to
the divine nature, that never having been offered to him.
R612:3
A usurper of divine authority, without divine appointment,
and contrary to divine regulation. F297, R1515:2, R4928:6;
SM95:1
This language applies also symbolically to the Papacy, for the
Papacy is Satan's own work, in his own likeness. R1686:2
Isaiah 14:15
Yet thou shalt be -- "God is the Judge, he putteth down

one and setteth up another." (Psa. 75:6,7) R5710:5
Down to hell -- Sheol, oblivion. F618, R2599:5
The grave, so rendered in verse 11. R2599:5
Isaiah 14:16
Is this the man -- Perhaps suggesting that Satan would

appear as a man in the last days. (In letter from Benjamin
Barton. Brother Russell's view is different.) R5866:3*,
R5867:1
Isaiah 14:17
Of his prisoners -- Death's captives. A112
Isaiah 14:22
For I will rise up -- Not wholly fulfilled by Cyrus; much

still awaits for fulfilment in mystic Babylon. R2498:3
Isaiah 14:24
So shall it stand -- God's original plan is still in progress.

A66; R419:3; HG537:3
We have the assurance that all God's purposes shall be
accomplished. R165:5
Isaiah 14:27
Hath purposed -- God knows the end from the beginning;

he changes not from his original purpose. R2026:6
Who shall disannul it? -- God has a definite and
systematic plan for the development of the race by which the
largest possible proportion thereof shall be brought to
ultimate and permanent good. R902:6*
God's righteous and benevolent plan could know no failure.
R1834:6
Turn it back? -- Having begun the work of salvation, God
does not intend to abandon it. R2690:1
God's plans were perfect before they began to be executed;
hence all the changes of God's course or conduct are working
out the accomplishment of his original purpose which
contemplated these very changes. R2026:6
Isaiah 16
Isaiah 16:5
Shall the throne -- Authority and rulership. A92

Of David -- Type of the glorified Christ. B255
Isaiah 17
Isaiah 17:12
Of the seas -- Restless, turbulent, dissatisfied masses of

the world. A318
Isaiah 18
Isaiah 18:1
Woe -- Ho (Young's translation). R3404:3

To the land -- By many, supposed to refer to the United
States of America. R3404:3
Shadowing with wings -- Sheltered by divine providence
as an asylum for the liberty lovers and truth lovers of the
world. R3404:3, R3405:1
Which is beyond -- A fitting description of the location of
the United States. R3405:2
Rivers of Ethiopia -- Beyond the waters of the ends of the
earth. R3405:2
Isaiah 18:2
Sendeth ambassadors -- God's messages of Present Truth.

R3405:2
Vessels of bulrushes -- Papyrus, paper. R3405:2
Ye swift messengers -- God's message going forth in
literature, the Millennial Dawn books, tracts, etc. R3405:4
To a nation scattered -- "A Holy Nation, a Royal
Priesthood." (1 Pet. 2:9) R3405:4
Also the Jewish nation, in stumbling over Christ. R1962:6
And peeled -- Polished. R3405:4
A people terrible -- In their experiences hitherto. R3405:4
A nation meted out -- Whose course and experiences in
life the Lord has measured out for them, for their own highest
welfare. R3405:4
And trodden down -- As a part of their necessary
The rivers -- Either of death or as in Psa. 46:4. R3405:5
Have spoiled -- Divided. The river of death separates this
Holy Nation from its inheritance on the other side of Jordan.
R3405:5
Isaiah 18:7
In that time -- The time when the message of the swift

messengers goes forth. R3405:5
Shall the present -- The Holy Nation, brought as a present
to Jehovah. R3405:5
The mount Zion -- The heavenly Kingdom. R3405:5
Isaiah 19
Isaiah 19:2
Set the Egyptians --The opponents of God's people.

F458, C315
Against his neighbor -- Selfishness gone to seed will bring
forth anarchy at the close of this age. OV419:3; SM385:1
The bond of human sympathy and brotherhood will be utterly
snapped in riotous selfishness. OV321:2
Isaiah 19:3
Seek...familiar spirits -- Communications with the fallen

angels. R2172:1, R1642:6, Q804:3; HG726:1
Isaiah 19:10
Ponds for fish -- Nephesh, souls, sentient beings. E334

Isaiah 19:19
In that day -- The day when the great Savior and Deliverer
shall come to set at liberty sin's captives. C315
This storehouse of knowledge, like the major part of the
Bible, was kept purposely sealed until its testimony should be
needed and appreciated. C320
Altar to the LORD -- The Great Pyramid. R4790:6;
C315; B366
Designed by the Lord, unlike all other pyramids. Ciii
From its base-line upward the Great Pyramid seems to stand
as a symbol of God's plan of salvation. C331
Its construction shows an exactness and skill possessed 4,000
years ago which was lost in the interim, contrary to
Evolutionist teaching. R3619:6, R737:4
Among the tools used by pyramid builders were both solid
and tubular drills, straight and circular saws, the drills being
set with jewels. R3620:1*
Midst of the land -- Of the land surface of the earth. C326
The center of the sector-shaped country of northern Egypt.
Q743:1
Of Egypt -- Type of the world of mankind, full of vain
philosophies, ignorant of true light. C315
A pillar -- The limestone blocks were taken from a quarry
southeast of the city of Cairo; but the nearest red granite
blocks are found hundreds of miles up the Nile. R4621:5
At the border -- Of the sector-shaped land of lower Egypt.
C326; Q743:1
Isaiah 19:20
And it -- The Great Pyramid, probably constructed by

Melchizedec in 2170 BC. C322, C338
Completed at midnight of the autumnal equinox, the true
beginning of the year. C321, C327*
When "a Draconis" looked directly down the entrance, and
the ascending passage pointed to the Pleiades at the very same
time. C321
Showing correctly such facts as the length of the year, earth's
distance from the sun, etc. C326, C378
Shall be for a sign -- Not on a parallel or equality with the
Word of God, which stands pre-eminent always in authority.
Ciii
The crowning feature is the top-stone, itself a perfect
pyramid, type of Christ, first finished, model for the whole.
"A stone of stumbling and rock of offence." (Isa. 8:14; 1 Pet.
2:8) C328, C329; R1568:4
The downward passage representing the course of sin. C331;
R224:6
The entrance to the downward passage showing the date
when Isaac came into possession of Abraham's estate. C366,
C368
The lower terminus of the Well showing 1881 AD as the time
when restitution blessings should begin to be due. C367
The subterranean chamber, or bottomless pit, representing the
time of trouble and the end of every being pursuing a
downward course. C341, C344
Its location showing the time of trouble due to begin in 1914
AD. C342
The First Ascending Passage representing the Law
dispensation. C332; R224:6
Its length showing the period from the exodus to the full end
of Jewish favor, 36 AD. C347
The Grotto, representing Jesus' death. C361
The Well, representing the new way to life opened up by
Jesus' death and resurrection. C337; R224:6
The upper terminus of the Well showing the length of our
Lord's life. C337
The passage to the Queen's chamber, showing the 6000 years
of sin and 1000 years of restitution. C369-371
The Queen's chamber, representing perfect human life. C358
Its air tubes showing that human life will be everlasting to
those who meet the conditions. C373
The Grand Gallery, representing the period of the Gospel call.
C332; R224:6
An opening at the top of the upper end of the Grand Gallery
indicates where the Bridegroom came as a spiritual being in
1874 AD. R225:1
The step at the upper end of the Grand Gallery pictures Christ
as "the stone of stumbling." The progress of all seems
dependent on recognizing the Present One. R225:1
The Grand Gallery height represents the spiritual blessings of
the Gospel call; its narrowness the narrow way to life; its
steepness the danger of backsliding. C349
Its leaning south wall, the date of the Lord's second advent as
1874 AD. C365; R225:1
Its length, showing the termination of the call in 1881 AD.
C363, C367; R225:1
The low entrance to the antechamber representing the first
step of consecration, death of the human will, or begetting of
the Spirit through the Word of truth. C351, C357
The granite leaf in the forepart of the antechamber
representing the second step of submission to the divine will
or quickening to service and sacrifice through sanctification
of the Spirit. C351, C357
The antechamber, representing the School of Christ. C352;
R5060:3
Its granite floor beyond the granite leaf, representing our
standing as New Creatures. C351
The low passageway into the King's Chamber, representing
birth of the Spirit. C357
The King's Chamber, representing heaven itself, the condition
of those who attain immortality. C355
The Vertical Axis, showing the distinction between human
and spirit natures. C357
Prof. Piazzi Smyth's interest centered in the upper chambers
of the Pyramid, accounting for the error in his diagram,
placing the vertical axis prior to the pit, instead of bisecting it.
R3451:2; C333
The Great Pyramid does not show a place for the Great
Company. They all come into the antechamber, but only the
"faithful unto death" pass beyond it into the King's Chamber.
R5060:3
Now commencing to speak to men of science. Noah's ark
may be preserved as another such witness. R525:4
For a witness -- To his foreknowledge and to his gracious
plan of salvation; "Signs and wonders in the land of Egypt
even unto this day." (Jer. 32:20) C318
In that it so clearly corroborates the teachings of the Lord's
Word. C328; Q743:1
The Pyramid stands strangely related to the hope of the Jews.
R4953:2*
For they -- The Egyptians, the poor world during the time
of trouble coming. C317
A saviour, and a great one -- The Savior of the world;
"The mighty God." (Isa. 9:6) R4634:5, R1747:4
Not of the Jew only, but also of the Gentile. R2050:6
Of the Church now, in a partial sense, by hope; future in the
fullest sense, in the "first resurrection." The saving of the
world will begin then. R4634:5
Isaiah 19:21
Known to Egypt -- The world. C317

In that day -- In the Millennial day, at the close of the
time of trouble. C317
Isaiah 19:22
Shall smite Egypt -- The world, in the great time of

trouble just at hand. C317
Shall heal them -- He wounds to heal. A256; R1869:3
Isaiah 19:24
In that day -- In the future. Prophecy is more to be

understood after it is fulfilled. (Written in 1906) Q353:3
They shall be waked in due time, "the Times of Restitution of
all things." (Acts 3:21) R3725:6*
Israel...Egypt...Assyria -- In what way Israel is going to
be one with these others in the future is not very clear yet.
Q353:3
Isaiah 20
Isaiah 20:1
Sargon -- Tablets have recently been found which give a

complete history of Sargon's reign. R2101:4*, R818:3*
The founder of a dynasty, the father of Sennacherib and one
of the greatest monarchs that ever occupied the Assyrian
throne. R818:3*
Isaiah 21
Isaiah 21:1
The burden of -- Much of the threatening of this chapter is

of two-fold application and fulfilment, on literal and symbolic
Babylon. R45:1
Isaiah 21:9
Babylon is fallen -- Mystic Babylon, Christendom. R45:1

The fall of the literal was by the turning aside of the waters
and the drying up of the Euphrates. The symbolic Euphrates
is also said to be "dried up." (Rev. 16:12) Each is compared
to a stone cast into the water. (Jer. 51:64; Rev. 18:21) R45:1
As Jesus said, "your house is left unto you desolate" (Matt.
23:38), so in the spring of 1878 AD the nominal gospel
church was given up and their house left desolate. R46:1
The two events of the New Jerusalem or Kingdom of God
being established in the earth and the complete overthrow of
the great city of Babylon will occur simultaneously. R1352:6
Isaiah 21:11
Watchman -- "I will stand upon my watch, and will set my

foot upon the tower, and will watch to see what he will say
unto me." (Hab. 2:1) R4943:6
On the lookout from whence matters of interest and profit
may be announced to the "Little Flock," and as "The Herald
of Christ's Presence" to give "meat in due season" to the
"household of faith." R3:5
It is the duty of the watchman on the walls of Zion to declare
the whole counsel of God--the bitter as well as the sweet.
HG414:1
The Rabbis expound that the watchman who speaks here is
the Messiah. R4691:6*
What of the night? -- That is, what hour of night is it?
"Little children, it is the last hour." (1 John 2:18) R4692:4*
It is right for us to desire the morning, to hope for it, to
inquire as to the signs of it hour after hour. R302:2*
Isaiah 21:12
The morning -- The Millennial morning, which will bring

to light the hidden things of darkness. A21; C208; R968:1,
R1774:1, R3332:1, R4926:2
It will dispel the noxious vapors of evil and bring life, health,
peace and joy. A21
We have been in the Millennial dawn since the year 1874 and
enjoying many of its blessings. SM792:2
When He appears, Day appears. R302:3*
"The Lord shall help her (the Church) early in the morning."
(Psa. 46:5) R2504:4
Cometh -- Has come (Revised Swedish Bible). R3531:2*
We are in the morning of this text. R6014:2
Daybreak began more than a century ago--in the year 1799
AD. HG416:1
Were this morning an uncertainty, how dark the night would
seem! how difficult to fight against faintness and despair!
R303:5*
In proportion as the blessings of God have come in this New
Day the discontent and unbelief of humanity have increased.
SM794:3
And also -- And still it is (Revised Swedish Bible).
R3531:2*
The night -- The time of trouble. R3332:1; D273
A much darker time in comparison with the present, which is
called day. R968:2
The sunlight of Gospel truth, which has enlightened the
Church, is fading out gradually and being eclipsed by worldly
wisdom. HG418:4
The short night of trouble will affect the consecrated
followers before it reaches the world in general. R4167:6
A night of trouble, in the forepart of which the saints will be
gathered out of Babylon. D608
Typified by the imprisonment of John the Baptist. R1754:5
The night of the parable of the rich fool. (Luke 12:15-20)
D273
"The time will come when they will not endure sound
doctrine." (2 Tim. 4:3) R968.2
When the sun and moon (the Gospel and the Mosaic Law)
shall be dark (general infidelity being widespread); and the
stars (apostolic lights) withdraw their shining. (Joel 2:10)
D544
"Wherein no man can work." (John 9:4) C208, C211,
C225; D544; R968:2, R1754:5, R1409:1, R587:4*
After the morning dawn has been well ushered in--a dark
cloud just at sunrise. R6014:3; SM795:2
An overcasting of the skies, a great morning storm. R4149:4;
HG417:5
Great tribulation immediately preceding the dawning of the
glorious day. R1774:1, R3332:1
When the religious liberty now enjoyed will be greatly
restricted by the strong hand of combined civil and
ecclesiastical power. R1409:1
When all opportunities for service will be effectually
obstructed, leaving no opportunity for candidates to enter the
work--the shutting of the door. C208
"in that night there shall be two in one bed." (Luke 17:34)
D608
"Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night." (Psa. 91:5)
R3332:1, R4926:2
If ye will inquire -- If ye will ask more (Revised Swedish
Bible) than "what of the night?" R3531:2*
For the length of the night is hidden, the time of the daybreak
is uncertain. R302:2*
Inquire ye -- Because you ought to know; because without
a knowledge of prophecy God's present works are a mystery;
and because knowing the future is of incalculable importance
in shaping the present. R4691:5*
Return, come -- Come back again (for more information).
R3531:2*
To the Jews, Turn ye, repentance toward God; and come,
faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. R4691:6*
Isaiah 24
Isaiah 24:1
Behold the LORD -- It is the Lord that makes the earth

desolate. Truth on every subject is the voice of God. It is
the dissemination of truth that prompts men to assert their
equal rights and make desperate efforts to obtain them.
R686.6
Maketh the earth -- The present social organization.
R1813:6
Upside down -- The upper crust, the proud, will be
deposed and the lower classes, the humble and meek, will be
exalted. R332:3
Isaiah 24:6
Few men left -- A class of the world, not spirit-begotten,

who will be preserved in the time of trouble: "Seek
righteousness, seek meekness, it may be ye shall be hid in the
day of the Lord's anger." (Zeph. 2:3) R5041:6; Q719:1
As the three Hebrews were preserved in the fiery furnace, so
we expect some will be spared in the time of trouble.
R5041:6; Q718:6
Isaiah 24:9
Strong drink -- False doctrines. R3455:2; D614

Isaiah 24:17
Fear -- Verses 17 to 22 give a vivid description of the

awful time of trouble. R5735:4
Isaiah 24:19
The earth -- The present old social structure. D558;

R1813:6
Is utterly broken -- In the time of trouble. D551;
R1813:6
Isaiah 24:20
Reel to and fro -- As a result of the judgments of the Lord

falling heavily upon the wayward and disobedient. R1913:4
Like a drunkard -- Vainly endeavoring to right itself,
maintain a footing and re-establish itself. D551
Like a cottage -- To clear the way for the new building of
God. D558
Isaiah 24:23
Shall reign -- When Christ and his glorified Church shall

reign in righteousness. R2049:5
In mount Zion -- The spiritual phase of the Kingdom of
God. F363
Gloriously -- "He must reign until he shall have put all
enemies under his feet." (1 Cor. 15:25) R2049:6
Isaiah 25
Isaiah 25:1
O LORD -- Jehovah. E46

Thou art my God -- Christ is represented as the speaker.
E46
I will exalt thee -- I will honor thee. E46
The result of the Millennial reign. At its close all things will
be back in subjection to Jehovah, whose power, working in
The Christ, put all things under him. E46
Isaiah 25:2
Made of a city -- Babylon, Christendom. R1957:3; D527
Isaiah 25:6
In this mountain -- Millennial Kingdom. R3175:5,

R1695:2, R1957:2, R2701:2, R3833:3; A318
The glorified Church. R154:1
Shall the LORD -- Jehovah, "Through our Lord Jesus
Christ." (1 Cor. 15:57) E46; R2708:4
Feast of fat things -- Rich blessings. R1695:2; A10
For the whole world, Jews and Gentiles. PD31/43; R1219:5,
R5415:6
Following the passing over of the Church to be associated
with their Lord in the blessing work. R4591:1
For the penitent class, all who return to God from the ways of
sin. R5435:2
The realization of the things we have long hoped for, now at
hand. R343:4
The feast of fat things provided for the sinners in Israel (Luke
15:27) corresponds to the feast to be opened ultimately to all
mankind in the Kingdom. R2708:4
In the Millennial age men will be permitted to partake of
Christ's perfections--physical, mental and moral. R1015:4
Wines -- Doctrines. C160
An apt symbol of joy and gladness. R1695:2
Typified by Jesus' first miracle, of turning water into wine.
R1695:2, R3164:3
Well refined -- Refined joys and pleasures. R342:3
Isaiah 25:7
He will destroy -- Cast into destruction, or, in symbol, the

lake of fire. R2600:4, R894:4
The shame (sinful weaknesses) and the shade (sorrow, gloom)
of all shall be swallowed up in the blessings of that day.
R1219:5
The work of the completed Royal Priesthood includes the
binding of Satan, the destruction of death. R86:6
By the release of all out of it; but this will not hinder any of
the released from dying the Second Death as the penalty for
their own wilful sins when on trial. R1219:6
In this mountain -- The Kingdom of God, the New
Jerusalem. R894:4, R154:1
Through this mountain (Kingdom, the Church in glory) he
will destroy the veil of ignorance and the covering of death.
R303:3, R474:3
The covering -- Death. R154:1, R247:4, R894:4
The shame--sinful weaknesses. R1219:5
And the vail -- Ignorance and unbelief. R154:1, R247:4,
R894:4, R2330:5; HG233:6
Removed by the manifestation of long-hidden truths through
whatever means God may use to bring it about. R91:2*
The shade--sorrow and gloom. R1219:5
Satan's blinding influences. R5896:2
Isaiah 25:8
He will -- Jehovah will. "Thanks be unto God who giveth

us the victory (deliverance, triumph) through our Lord Jesus
Christ." (1 Cor. 15:57) E46
When the Body of Christ is complete. R86:3, R204:4
To be accomplished during Christ's reign (not after). R1219:5
Swallow up -- Destroying and removing sin and its effects.
R87:4
Destroy gradually during the Millennial reign. R87:1,
R4760:6
Beginning with the first resurrection. R3175:5, R86:3,
R204:4
As the obedient come into the terms of the New covenant they
will be blessed with life. It will be a gradual work. R4760:6
Death -- Adamic Death. R1219:5, R86:6, R333:2
As death, like a huge monster, has devoured the human family
gradually, it is to be destroyed gradually during the Millennial
reign. R86:6, R4760:6
"There shall be no more death." (Rev. 21:4) This declaration
applies to the very end of the Millennial age, and not in full to
any previous time in that age. R2833:2, R4760:6
In victory -- The Kingdom will bless not only the living,
but also those who have fallen asleep in death. R5706:4
"Death is swallowed up in victory." (1 Cor. 15:54) R2600:4,
R1219:5
GOD -- Jehovah. E46
Tears from off all faces -- In the seventh day there shall be
a blessing for the whole groaning creation. R5395:5
Rebuke of his people -- The reproach of being his people
will disappear from the earth. R5032:2; HG233:6
To be of the Lord's people will no longer bring reproaches,
dishonor, persecution. R1219:5
Shall he take away -- Restoring to men all that was lost
through sin. R87:4
Isaiah 25:9
Said in that day -- When Messiah comes a second time in

glory and power. C249
When mankind shall see everything beginning to collapse,
then they will begin to realize that there is no hope except in
God, and then they will be willing to be taught. OV431:1
Lo, this is our God -- Christ, the Messiah, is our God.
C249
Israel will be the first to recognize the Kingdom established.
R1352:6, R1693:4
Under the guidance of the new administration of Messiah the
spirit of a sound mind will gradually come to mankind and
proportionately they will turn to him in loyal obedience.
SM456:T
We have waited for him -- Will be said by Orthodox
Jews. Israel, after the flesh, their blindness removed, will
become exceedingly zealous for the Lord's Anointed. C249;
F119
His salvation -- From the veil of ignorance and Adamic
Death. R342:3
Isaiah 26
Isaiah 26:1
In that day -- In the dawn of the Millennial age. R1352:6

Verses 1 to 9 are a prophetic description of the Millennial
day. R1951:1, R2338:3
Land of Judah -- Israel will be the first to recognize the
Kingdom established. R1352:6, R1693:4
A strong city -- A city that is securely established, the
Millennial Kingdom of God. R1352:5
The City of God, the Kingdom of God. A296; C229
Walls and bulwarks -- A strong city of refuge which all
desiring salvation may enter. R1353:1
Isaiah 26:2
Open ye the gates -- The Ancient Worthies, through

whose instrumentality all may enter into the Kingdom.
R1353:1
Which keepeth -- Observeth, or regardeth. R1353:1
May enter in -- The nations of the earth will be walking in
the light of the glorified Church, the New Jerusalem.
R2338:3
"They shall bring the glory of the nations into it." (Rev.
21:26) R1951:1
Isaiah 26:3
Him -- A class who has gone further than the condition of

peace with God and have the peace of God. R5432:1
In perfect peace -- "The peace of God, which passeth all
understanding." (Phil. 4:7) R5432:1, R5879:1
"When he giveth quietness, who then can make trouble?" (Job
34:29) R5878:2
In the midst of the time of trouble of verses 5, 6 & 21, God
would have his people at rest and peace in him. R1787:3
No matter what the outward conditions may be, even amid
turmoil and trouble. R5879:2, R5432:1,4
Not in an outward sense, but an inward tranquility.
R5432:2,1
Which comes through strong, unwavering faith. R5432:6,4,3
In proportion as we receive the holy Spirit. R5432:3
Dependent on full obedience and giving unreservedly to God
of time, talents, influence, life and all. R5432:6,1
To enjoy this we must have unswerving trust in our Father's
love and abiding faithfulness. R5432:5
We are not to be at peace with the flesh, but always at
warfare with it. R5432:3
Stayed on thee -- No one can retain this peace whose mind
is not stayed, fixed, on God; and our peace is in proportion to
our staying qualities. R5432:6
Nothing can, in any wise, hurt these. R5432:4
When we take the proper view of our experiences we can
sing: "No storm can shake our inmost calm while to that
refuge clinging." R5879:2
Like an iceberg towed by a powerful undercurrent, the
Christian is upheld and borne onward by the strong
undercurrent of peaceful communion with God. R1070:4*
Isaiah 26:4
The LORD JEHOVAH -- This title belongs only to the

Father. E65
Isaiah 26:5
Bringeth down -- In the time of trouble. B138; R1787:3

The humbling of the proud. R1951:1, R2338:3
The lofty city -- Mystic Babylon. R2338:3, R1353:1,
R1951:1, R1357:3, R5917:4
The city formerly exalted and powerful in the earth. R1353:1
Even to the dust -- Utterly destroyed. R1352:5
Isaiah 26:6
Tread it down -- A reference to the great social troubles

now at hand. R1353:1
Isaiah 26:7
The way of the just -- In the Millennium the path of the

just will be made level and they shall delight therein.
R1219:6
Is uprightness -- Is plain (Leeser). R1353:4
Dost weigh -- Dost make exactly plain (Leeser). R1353:4
Isaiah 26:8
Remembrance of thee -- Israel still remembered the Lord

and desired his favor and blessing. R1353:4
Isaiah 26:9
With my soul have I -- The Body of Christ. R2338:3,

R1951:1
Desired thee -- Praying "Thy kingdom come." R2338:3,
R1951:1
In the night - The night of the Gospel age. R2338:3,
R1951:1
A night of weeping, sighing, pain, sickness and death. A9
It is what their souls longed for, even in the night of sin.
R1219:6
Seek thee early -- Early in the Millennial morning.
R1219:6
When thy judgments -- The swift and unerring justice of
the Millennial age, side by side with mercy and peace. D619;
SM16:1, SM56:2, SM423:2; R4758:5, R350:6*; Q438:3
Rewards and punishments--a "resurrection by judgment."
(John 5:29, Revised Version) R3066:4, R4559:6
Our Lord's righteous dealings. SM56:2; R4730:5
Corrective in nature. SM423:2; R1715:1
A spiritual police force will have humanity under absolute
control. R5760:4
Exposing the evildoers. R5317:3
Punishments for every wrong course, rewards for every right
deed. R5780:3, R5781:1
Perhaps including some form of instant paralysis for those
who wish to do or speak wrong. R5023:6; Q621:T
Bringing blessings to every well-doer and punishments to
every intentional evildoer. Q438:3; R4730:5, R5286:6;
OV47:1; B138; SM16:1, SM56:2
These corrective judgments of the Lord will mean blessings in
disguise. R3790:5
The will will not be taken as instead of the deed, as it is under
the covenant of Grace. R4729:2
The troubles of the "Day of Jehovah" will give opportunities
of preaching the good tidings of coming good such as are
seldom afforded. A342
Even the dashing in pieces in judgment is so that man may
learn righteousness. R31:1*
The judgments of the day of trouble which introduce the
Millennial reign are necessary to teach the world
righteousness. R2338:3, R1951:1, R5443:3, R5493:4,
R269:3; D627, SM701:1
Babylon will fall as a result of Kingdom judgments. D623;
R2763:4
They will be so markedly before the attention of the people
that all will know that a change has taken place. R5218:5
The symbolic burning and breaking of Zeph. 3:8, 9 and Rev.
2:27 will be the missionary method by which the Church
glorified will bring in "everlasting righteousness." R2462:6
Are in the earth -- Bringing the great time of trouble.
R2314:1
The inhabitants -- Wearied and discouraged at their own
efforts. R686:6
Of the world -- The blessed opportunities of that time will
belong to all mankind except the Church, who have a special
blessing. R4730:5
Will -- God's original plan cannot fail in any particular.
R99:1*
Learn righteousness -- In the vengeance upon the nations
the Lord will reveal to the world the fact of the change of
dispensations and the change of rulers. B138
The world will see and recognize him when his judgments
make his presence manifest to all. R714:5*
Under the righteous administration of the glorified followers
of Christ, united with the Lord as the governing body, the
Kings and Priests. Q852:2
The Church shall rule as Kings with a rod of iron, but the
object will be to humble the nations and so fit them for the
reception of the truth. R404:6*
The overthrow of the kingdoms by the strong hand of
judgment is what will break the proud spirit of the nations.
R60:5*, R256:4
Gradually, under the Kingdom's restraints, corrections,
rewards and punishments. R5781:1, R4559:6, R5639:5,
R5780:3, R5286:6, R5023:6; SM734:T, SM16:1; OV47:1
All good intentions and endeavors will bring uplift--mentally,
morally and physically. R5771:4, R5760:4
The plowshare of trouble must first prepare human hearts for
the sowing of the good seed of the next dispensation.
R5521:1, R2627:5, R3414:5; HG417:3
Allowing man to realize the evil effects of his own course.
R1712:3
While the symbolic fire will destroy the institutions and
arrangements peculiar to that time; it will not destroy the
people, but prepare them for the reception of the Lord's
message. R2844:6
The uplifting influences will begin at once following the great
time of trouble. OV128:4
It will not take them long to learn. They will not need to have
calamity overtake them many times before they will learn that
it would be better for them not to do wrong. Q118:3
As soon as one finds that to slander his neighbor will bring
upon him a temporary paralysis of the tongue, he will be
careful respecting his words. HG234:5
Learning the inexpediency of sin and selfishness and that
thereafter no other rules than the Golden Rule shall be
permitted. R2314:1
All the inhabitants of the earth will learn perfectly what
righteousness is and what are its rewards. R1219:6
By the end of the Millennial age, even the entertaining of a
thought disloyal to the Almighty will lead to the Second
Death. SM57:T
Illustrated in the case of a young Atheist, who dared God to
strike him deaf and dumb, and was so stricken. R3388:6
The Lord's people have the opportunity to comfort and cheer
the world with these good tidings. A342
Those who will not fall into line with God's law will have
tribulations that they may learn righteousness. R4729:2
Isaiah 26:10
Yet will he not -- Some, even in the Millennium. R1951:1

Even with fullest knowledge, some will not learn to love
righteousness. R1219:6, R2338:3
Land of uprightness -- The Millennial or "new earth"
state. R1951:1, R2338:3, R1219:6
The majesty -- Will not recognize the majesty of the
Lord's law. R1219:6
Isaiah 26:11
They will not see -- The remainder of the world who have
not yet recognized the new Kingdom under the Ancient
Worthies. R1353:4,2
They shall see -- "Oh, that they might see." R1219:6
They shall yet see and be ashamed of their past course.
R1353:4
Shall devour them -- All who persistently remain enemies
of the Lord shall be destroyed. R2338:3, R1353:4
Isaiah 26:12
Thou also hast -- Verses 12 to 15 represent the faithful

taking a glance backward and acknowledging that the
deliverance has been wholly God's work. R2338:3
Wrought...works in us -- Expresses confidence in God
who has cared for them in the past. R1353:4, R1951:2
Isaiah 26:13
Other lords -- The various nations and systems that have

oppressed Israel. R3725:6*
The trusts and other giants of vice and selfishness. D370
Evil governments and systems, rulers, powers. R1353:4,
R1951:2, R2338:3
Sin, the great task--master, and every evil system which
oppresses men at the present time, some of which are highly
esteemed among the oppressed. R2338:3
Have had dominion -- Contrasting their condition under
the Kingdom of God with the bitterness and woes of the past.
R1353:4
But by thee only -- But of thee only, as our ruler.
R1951:2
Mention of thy name -- Mention only the Lord as their
King and forget the bitterness and woes of the past. R1353:4,
R2338:4
Isaiah 26:14
They shall not rise -- Every power of evil and oppression

shall be destroyed forever, never to rise again. R1951:2,
R1353:4; Q211:T, D370
Does not refer to mankind, but to the perishing of giant and
powerful trusts and corporations. Q210:2; R3725:6*; D370
Isaiah 26:15
Hast increased -- Israel regathered under divine protection

and favor. R1353:5
Isaiah 26:16
In trouble -- This trouble (of verses 16 to 19) is unlike all

others of the past 1,800 years upon the Jewish people. It is
not a mark of divine disfavor, but, contrariwise, of favor.
R1324:3
Poured out a prayer -- Nominal Christians, when they
awake to a knowledge of their situation and realize the
presence of the Lord. R5993:6
Isaiah 26:17
So have we -- The nominal church. R505:3, R5993:6
Isaiah 26:18
Been with child -- Nominal church claims to convert

sinners, to bring forth spiritual children. R5993:6, R505:3
This is said after they have realized the presence of the Lord.
R5993:6
Have been in pain -- She has had much zeal, but not
according to knowledge. R5993:6, R505:3
Not wrought any deliverance -- She has organized her
armies, developed her machinery and multiplied her stores;
yet the enemy does not fall before her. R505:3, R5993:6
Isaiah 26:19
Thy dead -- God's dead now are those who are members of
the Body of Christ. R4667:2; Q582:2, Q583:5, Q587:1
Men -- Omit this word, which was added by translators.
R4667:2, Q582:2, Q587:1
Shall live -- Referring to the resurrection of the Church.
R4667:2; Q582:2, R583:5, R587:1
Not that the dead are not dead. CR349:6
Trouble, a mark of God's favor, awakens the Jews from
lethargy to cause their hearts to long for the promised land.
R1324:3,5
Together with -- Omit these words, which were added by
translators. R4667:2; Q582:2, Q583:5, Q587:1
My dead body shall they arise -- The resurrection of the
Church, the Body of Christ. Thus, properly translated, this
passage should read: "Thy dead shall live; my dead Body,
they shall arise." R4667:2; Q582:2, Q583:5, Q587:1
Awake and sing -- In the resurrection morning when the
sleepers shall come forth from the tomb. E345
"Joy cometh in the morning." (Psa. 30:5) E345
Come forth to learn the goodness of God. R4667:2
Ye that dwell in dust -- Of the earth. E345; R4687:2
Isaiah 26:20
Come -- "Come out of her, my people." (Rev. 18:4)

R1788:2
My people -- Saints of the past and present. R2020:6,
R1787:6
"Those that have made a covenant with me by sacrifice."
(Psa. 50:5) R1787:6
Into thy chambers -- "The secret place of the Most High."
(Psa. 91:1) R1788:2
The place of intimate communion and fellowship with God.
R1788:2
Passing unto the Lord. R5255:3
And shut thy doors -- Of faith. R1788:3
Hide thyself -- Withdraw from the world and nominal
church to walk alone with God; heeding not the reproaches of
men. R1788:3
A little moment -- As this shall be the sharpest, so shall it
be the shortest persecution of them all, but true believers shall
be preserved till the calamity be overpast. R1275:6*,
R1789:1
The indignation -- The storm of trouble; the alarm, fear
and trembling that will take hold upon all other classes.
R1788:6
Not the severity of the coming catastrophe because the saints
will be gone before that time. R2020:6
Isaiah 26:21
For, behold -- In the time of trouble. R1357:2, R1787:3

Punish the inhabitants -- God's just judgments upon the
world. R5255:3
In the close of this age, the judgment of the Lord will be upon
Disclose her blood -- From this generation God will
require all the righteous blood shed during this age. R5256:2
Isaiah 27
Isaiah 27:1
In that day -- The day of punishment of the earth (Isa.

26:21); of trouble such as never was (Dan. 12:1); that shall
burn as an oven (Mal. 4:1); like a refiner's fire (Mal. 3:2); the
day of reckoning. R1357:2
The dragon -- That old serpent, the devil and Satan. (Rev.
12:9) R171:6*
The sea -- The restless, turbulent, dissatisfied masses of
the world. A318
Isaiah 27:6
That come of Jacob -- Natural Israel. A300

Blossom and bud -- After being apparently dead.
R1063:1*
Isaiah 27:12
One by one -- Not in multitude at the first gathering.

R341:5*
Isaiah 27:13
The great trumpet -- Related to the trumpet of Jubilee.

R2025:3, R2026:1
Isaiah 28
Isaiah 28:1
Woe -- Pertains to both natural and spiritual Israel.

R4287:2
Crown of pride -- Worldly prosperity. R1357:3
Self--sufficiency. R3455:2
The drunkards -- Those intoxicated with error, false
doctrines and theories. R4287:3, R3104:2, R588:3; D614
Ephraim -- Christendom. R1357:3, R3455:2, R3104:2;
D22
The word means "fruitful" and indicates the numbers,
influence, power and wealth of Babylon. R1357:3
Applied to the ten tribes who revolted against the Kingdom of
the Lord and established a different mode of worship; an apt
illustration of the nominal Gospel church. R562:2
Glorious beauty -- Pride, or exaltation. R1357:3
The glory of the nominal church is in numbers, wealth and
worldly prosperity. R562:3
Fading flower -- Her glory in numbers, wealth and power
is fading; her beauty and fragrance will soon pass away.
R3104:3, R1357:3, R3455:3, R562:3
The fat valleys -- World mindedness; worldly possessions
and pleasures. R1357:3, R3455:2, R562:2
Overcome with wine -- The spirit of the world. R1357:3
Isaiah 28:2
Strong one -- The Lord. R1357:4

A tempest of hail -- Truth put in a hard, forcible way.
R1357:5, R1774:5
As a flood -- The conflict of the Day of Vengeance. D528,
D527
God is now permitting the Adversary to bring in error like a
flood. R2875:6
Of mighty waters -- Symbol of truth, destined to cover the
whole earth. "The knowledge of the Lord shall cover the
earth as the waters cover the sea." (Hab. 2:14) R1357:4
Shall cast down -- Casting down to the earth, with power,
the crown of pride. D528
Isaiah 28:3
Crown of pride -- The wealth, fame and prestige of these

great systems of Babylon. R1357:5
Trodden under feet -- Humbled in the dust. R1357:5
By the lawless ones, the anarchists. R3104:3
Isaiah 28:4
A fading flower -- The beauty of the great system named

Christendom will quickly disappear. R4287:6
As the hasty fruit -- Sour and bitter, forced, immature.
R1357:3,5
Nominal churches have great fruitfulness in numbers, but the
fruit is immature, not good. R1357:3
God's plans come to maturity by slow and steady
development. R562:3
Like the early fruit, the earthly beauty of the present systems
will disappear. R4287:6
Eateth it up -- Babylon's sudden destruction at the hands
of anarchists. R3104:3
Isaiah 28:5
In that day -- Now, in the end of this age. R4287:6,

R3455:3
The very day of Babylon's fall. R562:6, R4287:6
A crown of glory -- Even in the present life his truth in
their hearts shall cause their faces to shine. R3104:6
They are his betrothed and will shortly be exalted as his Bride
and joint--heir. R1357:6
They shall receive the crown of life-glory, honor and
immortality. R3104:6
Diadem of beauty -- To the faithful ones the Lord will
become more glorious as they see the breadth, height and
depth of his love. R4287:6
Unto the residue -- The remnant, the Little Flock.
R3455:3
Those who are truly consecrated to the Lord. R1357:5
Isaiah 28:6
Spirit of judgment -- The Lord's people will have sounder

judgment, even in the present life. R3104:6, R4287:6
The Lord will give judgment, discretion to discern between
truth and error, to those who bring all things, both new and
old, to the test of his Word. R562:6, R1357:6
Sitteth in judgment -- When made partakers of the
Kingdom glories, these will be amongst the judges of the
world. R3104:6
Strength to them -- The Lord will be a strength and power
to them, inwardly they will have peace. R4287:6
To all who battle against the forces of error. R562:6
Turn the battle -- May be viewed aggressively or
defensively. R2662:1
To the gate -- Possibly a symbol of dominion, representing
Satan's stronghold, the doctrine of eternal torment. Possibly
representing the restraint the enemy has exercised over
mankind to hinder them from the truth. R2661:3*
Signifies public effort to withstand error with the truth, even
in the stronghold of error. R1357:6
In defense of the Citadel of Truth; not permitting false
doctrines to enter in, but insisting that every doctrine be
decided by the Word of the Lord, squared by the Golden Rule
and the Ransom. R3455:4
Isaiah 28:7
But they also -- To whom the people look as leaders and

teachers, the clergy. R1357:6
The ministry, as well as the membership. R1493:2
Erred through wine -- Symbol of the spirit of the world.
R1358:1
Intoxication of Christendom--of errors, false doctrines, human
schemes. R3104:2
"And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled
with the Spirit." (Eph. 5:18) R1502:5,2, R3962:6
Verses 7 to 13 have an application to natural Israel at the first
advent but, because of parallel dispensations, it is proper that
we should expect similar stumblings in the present Harvest in
nominal spiritual Israel. R3962:3-5
Strong drink -- Being intoxicated with the spirit of the
world. R1488:6, R1444:4
Are out of the way -- Confusion prevails amongst
religious teachers of every denomination. SM107:2
Priest and the prophet -- The religious instructors of the
people. R562:5, R1444:4, R1488:6, R3455:4, R1847:5
Err in vision -- The intoxicating errors pervert the
judgment and hinder a proper view of the divine Word and
the simplicity of the Gospel. R4288:1, R562:5, R1358:1,
R1488:6
Cannot see the riches of divine grace, but see instead the
nightmare of eternal torment. R3962:6, R4288:1
Stumble in judgment -- They are unable to discern and
follow the truth. R1444:4, R562:5, R3455:4, R4288:1
Using it as a temperance lesson, Christendom cannot see that
this Scripture applies to themselves. R1358:1
Isaiah 28:8
For all tables -- Denominational creeds, "Tables of

devils." (1 Cor. 10:21) R3455:4, R3963:1-3, R4288:2
How different the condition of those fed with "meat in due
season." "My table thou hast furnished (supplied) in the
presence (sight) of mine enemies." (Psa. 23:5) R3396:1
Are full of vomit -- Doctrinal monstrosities and
misrepresentations rejected by the more enlightened.
R3963:2, R3455:4
Repulsive mass of mingled traditions and abominable errors.
R562:5, R4288:2
Rejected matter--old errors swallowed in the past with
thoughtless complacency. R1899:4, R3396:1
In reaction to the miserable husks of human tradition on
which they have been feeding for centuries past. R1475:2
Vomiting forth the various creeds and theories of the Dark
Ages which have produced their intoxication. SM107:2
No place clean -- No table fit for God's intelligent
children. R1358:1
A necessary realization before looking beyond Babylon's
creedal fences and leaping the barriers to the feast of fat
things spread now by our present Shepherd. R2913:4
Isaiah 28:9
Whom shall he -- The Lord. R1358:2

God. R562:6; SM107:3
Asks the class mentioned in verse 7. R3531:2*
The majority who have vomited the creeds of men feel so
great a disgust for everything in the way of doctrine that they
are barely able to hear that word. R3963:5
Teach knowledge -- Doctrine. R3963:5
A large proportion in Christendom are not true Christians,
consecrated followers of Jesus. SM107:3
In Churchianity there is a superabundance of mysticism,
ignorance and superstition, but a dearth of knowledge. "My
people perish for lack of knowledge." (Hos. 4:6) R3455:6
Understand doctrine -- Pure doctrine, the deeper elements
of God's Word and plan. R229:6, R3455:6
Weaned from the milk -- Contained in the printed
questions and answers in the International Sunday School
lessons. C143
Those who have ceased to be babes and made some
development, feeding upon the strong meat of the divine
Word. R3963:6, R1358:2, R4288:6
The foretold "strong delusions" of our day are not actually
strong, but have great power to delude because few are
"weaned from the milk." R5801:4, R1644:1
To appreciate the doctrines of God we must leave the first
principles and go on to perfection. (Heb. 6:1) C143
None may expect to understand the deeper things of truth,
except they progress from being babes to becoming strong
men. SM108:1; R562:6
The fruits and graces of the Lord's spirit cannot be obtained
merely through the milk of the divine Word. R3963:6
"Everyone that useth milk is unskillful in the Word of
righteousness, for he is a babe." (Heb. 5:13) C143
Few nominal Christians have even used the milk of God's
Word. R5801:4
Drawn from the breasts -- "Woe unto them that are with
child and to them that give suck in those days." (Matt 24:19)
R229:3
Isaiah 28:10
Precept upon precept -- The same truth repeated over and

over from different standpoints, thus enforcing its teachings.
R563:1
The most saintly of the Lord's people need constant
replenishment from the fountain of truth. R5805:3
As with the Gospel Church, the hearing of the voice of the
Son of God is a gradual matter, so it will be with the world
during the Millennial age. F709
If we cease to receive we will cease to have; hence we must
continually renew and review our study of the divine plan of
the ages. F316
Line upon line -- The way in which the Lord's message
would be presented. R4574:1
Here a little -- Those awakened from error must accept the
truth as God provides it for them. R4288:6
In the school of Christ we do not learn all in a day or a week.
R5125:4
Our poor earthen vessels are very leaky and need constant
replenishment. R5805:3
A little of truth here and little more there--little by little we
gain strength. R563:1
There a little -- In the end the harmony of the fragments of
truth from Genesis to Revelation, often disconnectedly stated,
become a demonstration of power to those who come to see
their relationship, harmony and beauty. SM108:2
Isaiah 28:11
Stammering lips -- Imperfect human lips. R2813:5

Despised or scorned. R563:2
Those who are proclaiming Present Truth are chiefly the
common people, and in the eyes of the world are quite
unqualified for their work. R3456:1
Divine revelation is given in a disconnected and broken form
in the Scriptures. SM108:2
The Lord will not choose the most approved and pleasing
instruments to human fancy, but despised or scorned lips, to
proclaim the truth. R563:3
Another tongue -- Other servants who will faithfully
proclaim God's truth; other teachers not ordained of men.
R1358:2, R563:3
Those awakening from error must be prepared to receive the
message of truth because it is the Lord's, from other lips than
those of their own denomination, and in quarters from which
they had not expected it to come. R4288:6
It was necessary to speak to the Jews in other tongues in the
early Church. R3962:5
As in the Jewish Harvest, the Lord used foreign tongues and
inspirational powers instead of the tongue of the Scribes,
Pharisees and Sadducees; so in the present Harvest, the
Bridegroom's voice is outside of Babylon entirely. (Rev.
18:23) R3963:6
Applied distinctly by Paul to the gift of tongues in 1 Cor.
14:21. R3962:3
Instead of plain statements in our native tongue. SM108:2
Will he speak -- He will raise up other teachers, teachers
not ordained of men, but of God. R1358:2
Isaiah 28:12
This is the rest -- The Harvest Message, containing God's

plan of salvation. R3456:1
The Little Flock will rest in these promises and will be
refreshed by them. SM109:T
The weary to rest -- The only foundation of this rest is
acceptance of the ransom. R563:3
The refreshing -- Rest, peace, satisfaction, which he has
provided for his true sheep. R4289:1
They would not hear -- But the nominal church has
refused to hear. R563:2
When teachers from God point out the true rest and
refreshment of divine truth, they will not hear. R1358:3
God's warnings go forth to all the nations of Christendom, but
go unheeded. D58, D60
The Harvest Message is sent forth throughout Christendom,
but the majority will not hear. R3456:1, R4289:1
Isaiah 28:13
Precept upon precept -- Nagging upon nagging, to Higher

Critics. R3531:5*
Line upon line -- Prating upon prating, to Higher Critics.
R3531:5*
Permitting repeated captivities to Israel, yet he kept hold of
them, and when they repented and cried unto him, he heard
them and delivered them. B88
The message is to be sent forth tract upon tract, here a little,
there a little. R3456:1
That they might go -- The Word of the Lord does not
profit them, not being believed. R713:4
And fall backward -- Into Higher Criticism and
Evolutionism. R3456:4
Though the Word of the Lord has been plain for the
instruction of his children, nominal church leaders have gone
backward, substituting their own theories, deceitfully
wresting the Scriptures. R563:2
A thousand will fall to one who will stand. (Psa. 91:7)
R2295:5
Snared, and taken -- Entrapped by the Adversary because
they considered God's beautiful plan of salvation as merely
prating and nagging. R3531:5*
In the general unbelief that is even now sweeping over the
civilized world. R2813:6
Divine revelation is given in disconnected and fragmentary
form so that all others than Israelites indeed may be ensnared
and entrapped. SM108:2
A solemn warning of the responsibility of those who hear, but
will not heed the truth; showing that when they are ensnared
in the traps of error it will be due to their own improper
condition of heart. R1358:3
Isaiah 28:14
Ye scornful men -- Disdaining teachers. R2813:6

Unfaithful teachers of today. R563:6
Jerusalem -- Symbol of the church. R563:5
Isaiah 28:15
Covenant with death -- Declaring that it is a friend, not an

enemy. E370; R2599:6, R2813:6
God terms their theory that "death is the angel God has sent"
an agreement with death. R563:6
And with hell -- Sheol, oblivion, death, not torment.
E369
Are we -- All who believe that the dead are not dead.
E370
An agreement -- Not believing it to be the wages of sin.
E370; R1774:2, R2599:6
The false doctrine that the dead are more alive than before.
SM114:2
Overflowing scourge -- The great time of trouble. Q166:2
Of infidelity. R2814:1
"An inundation of waters hath passed over." (Hab. 3:10,
Young's Literal Translation) R1813:4
One of the most serious aspects of this overwhelming scourge
will be the power of the evil spirits, the fallen angels.
SM118:1; Q166:2
Not come unto us -- Nominal church leaders have said:
"We are safe in the ignorance of our people and their
dependence upon us for their faith and hopes even though an
overflowing scourge of infidelity come." R2814:1
Lies our refuge -- System of false theories. R563:6
Nominal church leaders say: "As we succeeded in deceiving
the people in the past, we shall continue to do so in the
future." R2814:1
"From the prophet (orator) even unto the priest (minister)
every one practiseth falsehood." (Jer. 8:10) C157
Isaiah 28:16
Precious corner stone -- The chief cornerstone in a

pyramid is the top stone, which is also the model after which
the whole building is being fashioned. R3622:4
"Upon this rock (Greek petra, the rock in mass, the foundation
rock) I will build my church." (Matt. 16:18) R1760:3
Christ, the top stone of the pyramid. "The stone which the
builders rejected is become the head cornerstone." (Matt.
21:42) "He shall bring forth the headstone thereof with
shootings, crying, Grace, Grace, unto it." (Zech. 4:7) C329;
R1568:4
The Church is built up under him, fashioned in accordance
with the lines and angles seen in him who is the model.
R1568:5
"Unto you, therefore, which believe, he is precious; but unto
them which be disobedient the same is made a stone of
stumbling and rock of offense." (1 Pet. 2:6-8) R1649:3
A sure foundation -- Zech. 4:7 calls it the "headstone,"
not incongruous because, as a heavenly building it has a
heavenly foundation and is held together by heavenly
attraction. R1568:4
How appropriate that the stone in whose likeness the whole
structure is to be finished should be laid first. A243
This is not all of the Gospel, but it all comes as a consequence
of this fundamental or foundation truth, faith in Jesus our
Redeemer. R429:2
Not make haste -- Taking God's plan instead of hastily
constructing theories of their own. R564:1
Like those who, in haste, discard the Lord's plans. R589:3
Isaiah 28:17
Judgment also -- When the Little Flock is complete it will

not be "Judgment to come," but present judgment. E192
Justice. R5218:6
"He hath appointed a day in which he will judge the world in
righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained (Christ,
Head and Body)." (Acts 17:31) R5443:5
His judgment will be for the world's deliverance, for he
wounds to heal. R1869:3
There will be sweeping moral reforms, great educational and
philanthropic enterprises, wonderful faith cures from every
disease and deformity, mental and physical. R1095:4
A spiritual police force will have humanity under absolute
control by disciplinary judgments promptly executed. Every
misdeed will be punished as soon as it is determined upon.
R5760:4, R4758:5; SM421:2
Retributive justice similar to that manifested in the French
Revolution and in the destruction of Jerusalem. D536
To correct sin and wrongdoing and to reward righteousness
and well-doing. HG966:2
Woe will be unto them which call evil good and good evil.
All errors will be swept away. R564:1; CR291:4
We are in the beginning of the great Day of Judgment--the
Judgment shall begin at the nominal house of God. R5574:1
I lay to the line -- He will make "justice the line and
righteousness the plummet." (R.V.) R5917:4
A work already begun. B138
Now going on to the intent that ere long the equitable
principles of his government may be established in all the
earth. R5989:1
The Mediator's work in the world will be one of force,
compulsions severe ordeal to those who love unrighteousness.
R3915:5; SM16:1; OV154:2
"He shall rule them with a rod of iron." (Rev. 2:27) C369
In God's government great punishments following great
offenses are not greater than is necessary to establish justice
and effect a great moral reform. R2618:5, R723:1
His will shall then be done on earth as it is done in heaven.
(Matt. 6:10) R1781:2
Only the agonies of the coming great social revolution will
reveal the truth of this statement to all. D536
And righteousness -- Which alone can secure the
blessings all desire. B102
To the plummet -- Reign of law under the New covenant.
R4331:4
A severe ordeal to those who love unrighteousness and
untruth. OV154:2
Every sinful act will receive punishment and every good act
will receive blessing. R5760:4, R5770:5
Requiring those who steal to refund the stolen property with
20% interest added. R2613:4
All of earth's affairs will be squared and plumbed with
righteousness and brought into strict conformity thereto.
D632; R5989:2, R2992:6
And the hail -- Hard cutting truth. R1692:5, R1774:5,
R511:5, R2814:1
Crystallized and purified truths, perhaps in tract form.
R1119:6, R1121:5
The same storm and flood mentioned by our Lord in his
parable of the house built upon the sand. (Matt. 7:26, 27)
R5443:4, R3748:5
Righteous judgment. A303
Unwittingly served by Doctors of Divinity, Communists, et
al. R820:3
Shall sweep away -- The dominion of the Prince of Light
will supersede the dominion of the Prince of Darkness.
SM733:2
An early feature of our Lord's reign resulting in great
commotion. R2992:6
Sweeping moral and other reforms. R1095:4
Refuge of lies -- Every refuge of error and
misrepresentation. R1470:4, R4331:4
All the falsities and errors of those who exalt themselves.
R249:4
Falsehood and deception of every kind will give place to clear
knowledge of the truth. E192
Satan's deceptions shall cease. SM16:1; R564:1
And the waters -- Truth. A303; R2814:1, R511:5,
R1692:5
The Revised Version New Testament is a powerful element in
the storm which already begins to sweep over the nominal
church of all denominations. R249:4, R207:3
A mighty downpour of truth is now in progress throughout
Overflow -- A flood, overthrowing the faith structure of
those not built upon Christ. R5443:4
The hiding place -- Expose all errors and subterfuges.
R2814:1, R1692:5; A303
He will bring to light all the hidden things of darkness and
correct private as well as public sins and selfishness.
R1692:5
Isaiah 28:18
Shall be disannulled -- The Lord will ultimately convince

the world of the truth of the Scripture statements respecting
death and the oblivion condition. E370
Agreement with hell -- Sheol, oblivion, death, not
torment. E370
Overflowing scourge -- Whip, rod; chastisement. R564:2
The trouble will commence with the nominal church. R229:2
This overwhelming trouble will soon reach the entire world.
Indeed, it has already begun among all nations to some extent.
R5443:5
Then ye -- False teachers. R5443:4, R2814:2
Trodden down -- Oppressed. R564:2
Isaiah 28:19
That it goeth forth -- In its very commencement. R564:2

The trouble will commence with the Church. R229:2
By day and by night -- Increasing like a flood of waters.
R229:2
A vexation -- Distress, perplexity. R564:2
The overthrow and destruction of venerated theories. R564:3
Vexed and perplexed only until they come to understand
God's Word and plan. R229:2
Only to understand -- It shall be a vexation only "until he
shall make you to understand doctrine." (See margin)
R564:2, R590:6*, R207:3, R230:2
The report -- The message of Present Truth; true doctrine.
R3748:6, R2814:2, R5443:4
Doctrine--or "to eat meat," margin. R230:2
When liberated they will rejoice in the overthrow of every
form of error and its replacement with truth. R564:3, R229:2
Isaiah 28:20
The bed -- A place for rest and refreshing; symbolizes a

faith--a creed. R564:3, R215:4, R229:1, R513:5, R339:2
Creed-bed, or crib for spiritual babes. D608, R229:2,
R564:3, R2814:2, R4706:4
Where nominal Christians have been put to bed and to sleep.
R1476:5
"I tell you in that night (before the day has dawned, yet a part
of that day) there will be two in a bed; one will be taken and
the other left." (Luke 17:34; Diaglott) R229:1, R4706:4;
D608
God provides the good and suitable resting place of faith in
his Word. R564:3
Is shorter -- The erroneous teaching (of hell fire) is like a
short bed. CR20:3
Than that a man -- A fully developed Christian. D608;
R1352:4, R2814:2
Can stretch himself -- Exercise his mind and heart so as to
find rest therein and grow more. CR20:3; R1352:4, R564:3
Fine for those curled up in selfishness and fast asleep, but
when they awaken and attempt to stretch themselves they will
find it no longer a resting place. R215:5
The covering -- Doctrines. R207:4
God's promises, narrowed by a wrong theology. D609
Narrower -- He knows so little of the divine plan that he is
constantly subject to doubts and fears. R1352:4
The assurances offered by the nominal church are vague and
their knowledge of God narrow and meager. R564:4
Fear will creep in just as the chilly winds upon the person
who has too narrow a bed--covering. CR20:3
Isaiah 28:21
The LORD shall rise up -- The great decisive battle

cannot begin until the great "Michael," the "Captain of our
Salvation," stands forth and gives the word of command.
(Dan 12:1) D548
In these battles God was not dependent upon human skill or
generalship, but fought his battles in his own way. So in this
battle God will bring deliverance in his own time and way.
D555
As in mount Perazim -- Referring to the Lord's
deliverance of Israel from the Philistines at Perazim, and from
the Amorites at Gibeon. (2 Sam 5:19-25; 1 Chron 14:10-17)
D555; R564:6
He shall be wroth -- The catastrophe, though imminent,
cannot occur until the "elect" have all been "sealed" and
"gathered." D548
Valley of Gibeon -- The standing of the sun at the
overthrow of the Amorites was evidently typical of the power
to be displayed in the "Day of the Lord" at the hand of him
whom Joshua typified. (Josh 10:10-15) A61; D555; R564:6
May do his work -- Setting up his Kingdom. R2904:6
It will mean for a while the general destruction of faith. All
church systems will go completely to pieces. R5718:5
The separation of the wheat and the tares, the rolling together
of the heavens as a scroll, the preparation of the elements for
the melting with fervent heat. R1488:1,4
I will proceed to do a marvelous work among this people,
even a marvelous work and a wonder (miracle). "For the
wisdom of their wise men shall perish and the understanding
of their prudent men shall be hid." (Isa. 29:14) R2813:5
His strange work -- (The Lord permits) the prospering of
error and unbelief. R2813:5
Overthrowing the nations. R1439:3
Strange to those who do not understand the dispensational
changes due at the introduction of the seventh Millennium.
D548
The overthrow of Babylon and the anarchy incidental to the
establishment of the Kingdom. R2904:6
The world will not be able to understand it. OV429:5;
R1487:3; C122
The events of the time of trouble will fill the world with fear
and dread. C122
God's procedure will seem most strange to men when they see
all religious systems go down. R4977:1, R5823:6, R1357:5
Very strange to the great ones of ecclesiasticism. D547
His strange act -- Strange to them. Spewing "Laodicea"
out of his mouth, rejecting the nominal church systems and
casting all but the faithful into the outer darkness of the
world. R1439:3
(The Lord permits) the prospering of strong delusions.
R2813:3
Destruction of venerated systems of error, civil and religious.
R565:4, R1357:5, R590:6
Confusion and anarchy incidental to the establishment of the
Kingdom. R2904:6
The deliverance of regathered Israel. D555
Isaiah 28:22
Be ye not mockers -- There are many despisers of Present

Truth. Let us beware of that spirit which despises the
instruction of the Lord. R1487:3, R1488:6
Some seem inclined to treat lightly the predictions of the
overthrow of the present order of things. R565:1
Do not oppose the Vow. R4238:5
Be made strong -- The bands which bind the tares in
bundles were never so strong as now. C145
Those who mock at the truth become more tightly bound in
Babylon. R565:4, R878:5
A consumption -- An expiration, a consummation; the
time of trouble. D548, D273
An end, a "harvest." R207:4
A short work will the Lord make. (Rom. 9:28) D272
Isaiah 28:24
Doth the plowman -- The prophet borrows an illustration

from the work of an intelligent farmer. R576:1
Plow all day -- Always. R576:1
Break the clods -- The previous age has been an age of
preparing men by the plow and harrow of bitter experiences
with sin and law. R576:1
Isaiah 28:25
Made plain the face -- He first prepares the soil of

humanity and breaks it up and makes it ready for the seed of
the truth. R576:1
Cast abroad -- Then follows the sowing of seed and the
harvest of each in its season. R576:1
Isaiah 28:27
Threshed -- The time of trouble coming upon the Church

should be recognized as the Harvest, the threshing time, the
time for separating the real grain from the chaff and tares.
R576:2
Threshing instrument -- With saw-like teeth. R576:3
Fitches...and...cummin -- Small aromatic seeds used for
medicine and food, growing in little pods and requiring only
gentle threshing to separate them. These represent a class of
saints quickly separated from the world and its systems.
R576:2
Isaiah 28:28
Bread corn -- Grain which clings closely to the chaff,

representing some who cling closely to the world, its forms
and institutions. R576:2
Is bruised -- In Bible times cart wheels were passed over
such grains repeatedly until the separation was effected.
R576:2
Not ever be -- Though the Lord will use stronger measures
to separate some of his children it is not his design that the
time of trouble shall destroy them. R576:3
Nor break it -- Grind it. R576:2
Isaiah 28:29
Wonderful in counsel -- Enabling us to understand the

present threshing and sifting among God's children and to be
co-workers with him. R576:3
Isaiah 29
Isaiah 29:1
Woe to Ariel -- Christendom, nominal church. R576:4;

D22
A name used for Jerusalem. R1296:3*
Add ye year to year -- Although the nominal church has
become corrupt, the Lord permits her to continue her
existence a few years, that his truly consecrated children may
complete their sacrifice and separate from the nominal
systems. R576:4
Let them -- His truly consecrated children. R576:4
Kill sacrifices -- Fulfil their consecration vows. R576:4
Isaiah 29:2
Will distress Ariel -- The nominal church. R576:4

And it -- Many within her are his own dear children; some
of them weak, erring and negligent. The object of this
distress is to awaken and liberate them. R576:4
Unto me as Ariel -- As Jerusalem which, though often
chastised, was dear to Jehovah. R576:4
Isaiah 29:3
Mount -- Camp. R576:5

Forts against thee -- Bulwarks to hide myself from thee,
the nominal church. R576:5
Isaiah 29:4
Low out of the dust -- Once she loudly proclaimed her

teachings of eternal torment, but now her voice is low.
R576:5
A familiar spirit -- Communication with fallen angels.
R1643:2
Isaiah 29:5
Of thy strangers -- Worldly, unregenerated church

members, which she considers to be her strength. R576:4
Be like small dust -- Completely scattered in the coming
storm. R577:1
Of the terrible ones -- The tyrants, the clergy. R577:1
Shall be as chaff -- Forsake the church as soon as it ceases
to be popular and financially successful. R577:1
Isaiah 29:6
With thunder -- Controversy. R576:6

Infidelity, denial of the ransom, boldly proclaimed in the
nominal church, is the most subtle form of controversy.
R576:6
With earthquake -- Condition of the mass of the nominal
church when it fully breaks upon it. R576:6
Great noise -- Controversy. R576:6
Devouring fire -- The certain destruction that shall surely
consume these false systems. R576:6; D528
These are symbolic expressions of the great storm of trouble
soon to break on nominal Zion. R576:6
Isaiah 29:7
Against Ariel -- Jerusalem or Zion; the nominal church,

within which are God's own dear children in bondage.
R576:4, R577:4
And her munition -- Her bulwark, stronghold, the Bible.
R577:2
The hosts of infidelity are endeavoring to overthrow the
nominal church systems and also to demolish the Bible.
R577:4
As a dream -- Their victory will prove to be but the
delusion of a dream. R577:4
Isaiah 29:8
Appetite -- Thirst. R577:2

Zion -- Nominal Christendom. R577:2
Isaiah 29:9
Cry ye out, and cry -- "Turn your eyes away (from the
truth) and be blinded." (Leeser) R588:3
The truth is now so clear that only those who deliberately turn
away their eyes could be blinded. R588:3
In their darkness they wonder at what they consider the
strange course of the Lord's dealings. R588:3
They are drunken -- They have partaken of the
intoxicating spirit and pleasures of the world. R588:3
The drunkenness referred to is of the spirit and mind.
R591:4*
Not with wine -- Not with the cup of the Lord. R588:3
Wine symbolizes their consecration. R588:3
But with the intoxication of error, of false doctrine, of human
schemes and plans, the spirit of man and the Adversary in
contradistinction to the spirit and teachings of the Lord.
R3104:2
It is the wine of Churchianity which confuses those who use it
and beclouds their minds in respect to the true Christianity. It
addles their judgment and brings the people into captivity to
false doctrines and false teachers. R2904:5
They stagger -- Because of indistinct vision and
confusion. R588:3
Isaiah 29:10
Of deep sleep -- Spiritual stupor. R3104:3

"God hath given them the spirit of slumber." (Rom. 11:8)
This passage is not a temperance lesson. R3962:3
Asleep to spiritual things, but not to earthly things. R588:6
Closed your eyes -- "Lo, the word of the Lord have they
rejected, and what wisdom is in them." (Jer. 8:9) C157
The seers -- An expounder is a special teacher, or a
teacher of teachers--a see-er through whom hidden things may
be manifested. R732:6
Hath he covered -- A veil is cast over the teachings of the
prophets and of Jesus and the apostles. R588:6
Isaiah 29:11
The vision of all -- The vision of everything. R588:6

The revelation of God's truth through the prophets, Jesus and
the apostles. R588:6
Is become unto you -- Nominal spiritual Israel in the
Harvest of the Gospel age. R1847:2
A book -- God's Word, a sealed book, understood and
appreciated neither by the learned nor unlearned. CR10:1;
R2814:2
That is sealed -- None should be satisfied with saying, I
don't understand and cannot explain certain parts of God's
Word. R1214:5
If we study God's Word faithfully, earnestly asking that his
spirit enlighten the eyes of our understanding, we shall learn
his language and his Word will no longer be "a sealed book"
to us. R1062:6*
Would that more had the spirit of the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts
8:26-40)--a desire to understand the Scriptures and to avail
themselves of such humble instruments as the Lord may be
pleased to send. R2110:6
"He that seeketh findeth, and to him that knocketh it shall be
opened." (Matt. 7:7) R1150:4
One that is learned -- A Doctor of Divinity. R213:1
I cannot -- How many of the clergy of all denominations
demonstrate that whatever came to them at their ordination
has done them no good, but rather harm, in connection with
their ability to expound the Word of God. OV160:4
It is sealed -- To the teachers of nominal Zion who have
studied only at the feet of science and sectarianism and have
neglected the school of Christ. R589:1
Very few teachers in the nominal church make any effort to
expound the Word of God. R588:6
Because of unwillingness to sacrifice needful time and effort
in its careful study. R728:2
Isaiah 29:12
I am not learned -- Therefore unable to interpret.

R2110:6
The unlearned, accustomed to look to earthly learning for
instruction in heavenly things, make no attempt to understand
the Bible. R589:1
Many have never learned God's language. Our citizenship is
of the heavenly Kingdom, therefore we should be diligent to
learn its language. R1062:6*
Isaiah 29:13
Forasmuch -- Because Christendom has not received the

truth in the love of it, therefore God will send them strong
delusions that they may believe a lie, because they had no
pleasure in the truth. R4070:2
This people -- Applicable to typical Israel at the first
advent, and consequently to nominal spiritual Israel in the
present time. R2813:5
With their mouth -- Though the forms of godliness have
increased, the real worship and submission to God has ceased.
R589:2
With bells chiming out hymns, well-trained choirs singing
anthems, gifted orators delivering eloquent dissertations
outwardly a wonderful zeal for righteousness. R5630:6
"Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain."
(Exo. 20:7) "Let every one that nameth the name of Christ
depart from iniquity." (2 Tim. 2:19) R1527:6
With their lips -- It would be better not to approach the
Lord at all than to do so in an improper formalistic manner.
R5480:1
Saying "Thy kingdom come" and "Thy will be done" while
establishing their own sectarian dominions. R589:2
Heart far from me -- Formality of worship and
service has taken the place of heart-worship. R589:1
It is not sufficient that we make a profession to be his people,
for the "Lord looketh on the heart." (1 Sam. 16:7) R4052:3
"Having a form of godliness but denying the power he (2
Tim. 3:5) R3962:3
Their fear toward me -- A false kind of fear; because of
substituting the "doctrine of devils" for the precious things of
God. R4747:1, R2872:6; HG307:6
The bondage of fear instead of love fails to hold the penitent
or draw him near to the Lord. R1402:3
Tormented by the doctrines of fire and brimstone and fear for
their friends. HG305:5
The scourge of torment is held to be a necessity to restrain
men from vice, inspire them to virtue and morality and secure
their admission to heaven when they die. R1122:2
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom in contrast
with the fears inspired by superstition, which are the
beginning of folly and trouble. R3726:2
There is also a proper kind of fear and a proper kind of dread.
The proper fear carries this dread with it--a dread to do
anything that would displease the Lord. R4746:3
"Fear not." (Rev. 1:17) We cannot come into close sympathy
with our Lord and be taught of him and his plan until we learn
this lesson. R3570:1
Error does not have a sanctifying effect. The fear which it
produces is unhealthy fear. HG490:4
The Lord would have his people free from this fear, though
not free from a proper reverence toward him. R3115:3
Greater knowledge of God and of his character will dispel this
kind of fear. R4796:3
Hindering one from coming into the sunshine of his love.
First we must see a little of the love of God, then we find the
entire plan to be "just like him." R311:5
When his true character is love. R330:5
Through the delusions of Satan the "gospel (?) of damnation"
has been substituted for the "gospel of the Kingdom."
R2872:6
The oppression of thumbscrew, rack and stake for the
correction of heretics was the result of fear, and the fear was
the result of misunderstanding God's character. R3051:5
Afraid to believe their own senses in the study of God's
Word. R1122:2
Precept of men -- Human traditions, false doctrines.
R4996:3, R4747:1, R4783:3, R4796:3
The eternal torment doctrine. SM382:1, SM22:T
The eternal torment theory is a man-made, not a Scriptural
doctrine. R5149:3, R564:5, R1122:2, R3051:5, R790:1,
R904:3, R919:2
As unscriptural as they are contrary to every reasonable
conception of the proper exercise of justice, wisdom, love and
power. R4783:2
Built upon an unconscious violation of language which makes
such words as perish, lost, lose life, destroy, death, etc., mean
their very opposite--preserve in torture everlastingly.
R3242:5
Ignoring Bible doctrine, but holding firmly to human
doctrines respecting eternal torment, natural immortality, etc.
D173
In their haste to convert the world, the nominal church has
wrested parables and symbols to threaten and frighten people.
R564:5, R1122:2
Satan is blinding men with fear--fear that good, reasonable,
just thoughts toward God and interpretations of his Word are
delusions of the Adversary. R3133:6
Systematic theology, like the Talmud of the Jews, is
calculated to a large extent to make void the Word of God.
D64; HG716:4
Isaiah 29:14
A marvellous work -- Of overthrowing the present great

systems of men. R589:3, R1487:3
The Harvest work and all the attendant features of a change of
dispensation. R1487:3, R885:4
Among this people -- Clergymen and others. D173, D239,
D473
And a wonder -- A miracle. R2813:5
The wisdom -- Instead of approaching geology and
scientific research from the standpoint of faith in the Bible,
scientists approach from the reverse standpoint--that the Bible
is certainly wrong in some measure, great or small. R3221:1
The cant from the pulpits of sacred phrases that mean
nothing. R821:4*, R820:2*
As in disarmament plans which will have the opposite
reaction from what is anticipated. R2361:2
Wise men -- Statesmen. R1759:4
Modern critics. R1418:3
College professors, Doctors of Divinity, and the best educated
pulpiteers of Christendom. R4955:5, R1488:6
Teachers of Evolution. OV86:3; R5062:3, R1784:6,
R1792:1; HG492:6
Great financiers, as in the demonetization of silver. D473
A great falling away from faith is in progress among all
nationalities--especially among the "wise" and the "learned."
R3008:4
A rejection of the Word of God has more attraction for the
clergy than for the masses. R3497:4
Shall perish -- Their wisdom becomes a trap and a snare
unto them. R2492:6
Scientists are still guessing, and still repudiating the guesses
of each other. R4285:2
Their failure comes from neglect of the Word of God.
R4404:4
The unbelief of the people grows and threatens to become
agnosticism, or worse, atheism. R4955:4
"The wise are taken in their own craftiness." (Job 5:13)
R4135:6
The wise are being confounded by the power of the truth in
the hands of the humblest of God's consecrated children.
R1920:4
When the new dispensation is ushered in, they will see the
unwisdom of their course. R5186:5
The faith of many shall be overthrown. R3033:5
Ridding themselves of unscriptural traditions, many ministers
have become Higher Critics and Evolutionists. They are
discarding cardinal truths which their errors obscured.
R3335:2
"For this cause God shall send them a strong delusion, that
they may believe a lie who believe not the truth, but had
pleasure in unrighteousness." (2 Thes. 2:11, 12) R4404:4
Hence the Christian of low degree, through the instructions of
the Bible, may know clearly things that the famous and
learned in other wisdom cannot know. R4135:6
The heavenly wisdom is hidden from the wise and revealed
unto babes. R589:3
Thus we should utterly lose confidence in worldly wisdom
and the more firmly rely on the wisdom which cometh from
above. R2396:1
God will cause all their plans to wonderfully miscarry and
fail. R589:3
Their prudent men -- Business men. R1759:4
Wealthy men who have endowed colleges to teach unbelief
and Evolution. R5062:3
It is the professors and learned ones who are most
blameworthy. These have kept back the truth about "hell."
R2598:6
As exhibited at the World's Congress of Religions. D239
Shall be hid -- Obscured. R2492:6, R676:5
Not visible. R4144:2
"I thank thee, Father, that thou hast hid these things from the
wise and prudent." (Matt. 11:25) R589:3
Only in the light of the Scriptures can the peculiar condition
of things now at our doors be understood or appreciated.
OV86:3
Isaiah 29:15
Woe unto them -- The nominal church. Their counsel

shall come to naught; their cherished plans shall fail; their
pride shall be humbled; but it will be a blessing in disguise to
the individuals. R589:4
A time of reckoning, of judgment, is coming. R722:2,
R2612:6
Their counsel -- Schemes, plans. R589:3
From the LORD -- If our plans are not in harmony with
God's plans we may deceive men, but cannot deceive God.
R589:3
God knows that the controlling principles of sectarianism are
earthly and selfish. R589:4
Who seeth us? -- "The eyes of the Lord are in every place,
beholding the evil and the good." (Prov. 15:3) R722:2
In vain do they hide it and tell the Lord that they are laboring
for him. R589:4
Isaiah 29:16
Upside down -- Perverting the Lord's plans and doctrines.

R589:5
As the potter's clay -- As the efforts of the potter's clay to
oppose the potter. R589:5
For shall the work -- "We are his workmanship." (Eph.
2:10) R589:5
Workmanship--the systems or organizations, not the people.
R589:5
He made me not? -- Some look to Peter, some to Luther,
some to Calvin, Knox and Wesley. R589:5
Isaiah 29:17
Lebanon -- The majesty and dignity of the nominal

church. R589:6
A fruitful field -- The humble and lowly saints. R589:6
As a forest -- Things shall be reversed; the proud cut down
and the humble exalted. R589:6
Isaiah 29:18
In that day -- The Millennial day. D519; R877:4,

R1265:4, R2117:1
Surely we are now entering "that day." R536:5
Deaf hear -- It will bring blessings to those utterly ignorant
of God's Word. R589:6
Blind shall see -- The sin-blinded. R1265:4
Blinded by Satan. R1958:4, R2090:6
Because the Lord shall take away the veil of ignorance which
now is spread all over the earth. R2330:5
"All flesh shall see it together." (Isa. 40:5) R877:5
With the fall of the great systems (Babylon, confusion), men's
eyes will begin to open. SM424:2
As illustrated by the Sabbath-day miracle of healing the blind
man at the Pool of Siloam. R1400:6
The Jew first. R1786:4
Out of darkness -- Out of the obscurity. R2330:5;
SM424:2
With "seven-fold light." (Isa. 30:26) D519
Spiritual light will no longer be confined to the few; it will be
universal. R49:4*
Isaiah 29:19
Meek also shall increase -- As we seek to teach the meek,

let us see to it that we maintain the meek, childlike spirit,
without which we would not have been worthy of the truth
either. R957:4
Isaiah 29:20
The terrible one -- Satan. R589:6

Isaiah 29:21
For a word -- Spoken contrary to them. R590:1

In the gate -- Publicly. R590:1
The just -- The righteous. R590:1
For a thing -- As a thing. R590:1
Isaiah 29:23
His children -- The Christ, the spiritual seed. R590:4

They -- Fleshly Israel. R590:4
My name -- Jehovah. R590:4
Holy One of Jacob -- Christ. R590:4
Isaiah 30
Isaiah 30:8
Note it in a book -- The prophets did not confine

themselves to oral teachings. R1145:3
Isaiah 30:14
He shall break -- The coming of the King of earth means

much of trouble. R1692:4
Isaiah 30:15
In returning -- To God. R1787:6

And rest -- In him alone. R1787:6
Isaiah 30:21
A word behind thee -- The voice of our Lord from the

past. F410; CR497:6
The voice of God that comes through the apostles and
prophets of the past. R4136:1, R4882:2, R1753:2;
HG590:1
Not before thee, as of some new theology, like Evolution,
Spiritism or Christian Science. R1753:1
This is the way -- To the Church now, a way of faith
and consecration even unto death. R1753:4
To fleshly Israel and the world under the Millennial reign of
Christ, a highway of holiness. R1753:3
Isaiah 30:24
Clean provender -- In contrast, the ministers and

theological schools of Babylon turn out very poor grist-largely
husks and chaff, which will not sustain spiritual life
and strength. D609
Isaiah 30:25
There shall be -- The blessings of restitution are due, not

only to Israel and Palestine, but also to the whole earth.
R1380:1
Now commencing to be fulfilled. R1379:6
Great slaughter -- Disintegration, grinding to powder.
R1379:6*
The towers fall -- Kings, potentates, etc. R1379:6*
Isaiah 30:26
Light of the moon -- The Mosaic Law. R334:2

Increased light thrown upon the Law shadows showing the
true teachings of the Tabernacle, its services and sacrifices.
R499:6
Sevenfold -- Perfect. R334:2
Light of seven days -- Not spoken of natural, but of
spiritual light. R49:2*
When the sin-blinded eyes shall be opened, the world will see
right and wrong, justice and injustice, in a light quite different
from now. D519
In the day -- The Millennial age. D519
It is the same day (period) in which he assembles the outcasts
and makes up his jewels. R499:6
The breach -- Caused by sin. R334:2
His people -- The Jews. R49:2*
Isaiah 30:30
And tempest -- This Day of Vengeance. D527
Isaiah 30:33
Tophet -- Valley of Hinnom, symbol of Second Death.

Q640:2, R5041:6
King -- The devil with his messengers, those in sympathy
with evil. Q640:2; R5042:1
Fire and much wood -- A type of the real Gehenna,
unquenchable until its work is done. R1449:5*
Plenty of fuel to accomplish its complete destruction.
R5042:1; Q640:2
Breath of the LORD -- The Spirit of the Lord will set it
afire and cause it to burn to complete destruction. Q640:1;
R5042:1
Isaiah 31
Isaiah 31:1
Go down to Egypt -- The world. C316

For help -- For worldly ideas and plans and for counsel as
to how they should act in the crisis of this great day. C316
And stay on horses -- Who endeavor still to ride the old
false doctrinal hobbies. C316
Trust in chariots -- Worldly organizations. C316
And in horsemen -- The great leaders in false doctrines.
C316
Seek the LORD! -- With whom alone is safety and victory
in the time of trouble. C316
Isaiah 31:3
Shall stretch out -- As he will do shortly. C316

His hand -- His power, the power of the truth and other
agencies. C316
He that is holpen -- By the powers of Egypt, the world's
ideas. C316
Shall fall together -- In their human plans and schemes.
C316
Isaiah 32
Isaiah 32:1
A king -- The Prince of Peace. A269

Messiah will be the Great King, his Bride being associated
with him. OV321:4; R3114:1, R5898:2, R1063:2*
Christ, Emmanuel, Messiah. R307:5
Shall reign -- When the latter house of the Lord's building
(the Church) is complete and filled with glory; when the elect
Church, whose head is Christ Jesus, shall be given the
Kingdom, the dominion of earth. R2520:6
And princes -- The saints. R307:5, R238:2*, R31:4*
The glory which is peculiar to the divine nature, as well as
judicial, sacerdotal and regal authority, are to be jointly
participated in by all the overcomers. R1284:4*
They shall reign with him a thousand years and shall judge
the world in righteousness and bless all the families of the
earth. R1908:6
The Ancient Worthies. OV321:5
Shall rule -- Decree justice. Under their dominion the
whole earth shall be at rest. (Isa. 14:7) R3053:4
In judgment -- Executing summary justice in the
prevention of evil. D633
Isaiah 32:3
Shall not be dim -- Thus far only few have seen the light
of truth. It is in the future when this promise will be fulfilled.
R1311:5
Isaiah 32:17
Of righteousness -- Which shall be accomplished during

the Millennial age. R238:4*
Isaiah 32:20
Sow beside all waters -- If the sowing has been a general

one, we must expect the harvest work to be similarly broad.
R4000:2
Every nation, people, kindred and tongue. R4000:2
Isaiah 33
Isaiah 33:1
Thee that spoilest -- We will know who is meant when the

time of trouble is fully on, or nearly over. R2488:5
Isaiah 33:2
Be gracious unto us -- The saints in the time of trouble.

A338; R1470:5
Be thou their arm -- The helper of all truth seekers, even
though not overcomers. R1470:5
Isaiah 33:6
Fear of the LORD -- Reverence. R1470:5
Isaiah 33:7
Shall cry without -- Shall become discouraged and weep,

powerless to stem the tide of anarchy. R1470:5
Verses 7 to 14 give a vivid description of the awful time of
trouble. R5735:4
Ambassadors of peace -- Those who are crying "Peace,
peace" and predicting a Millennium of peace by arbitration.
R1470:5
Shall weep bitterly -- When the time of trouble brings
their hopes to naught. R1470:5
Isaiah 33:8
The highways -- Of commerce. R1470:6

The wayfaring man -- The traveler. R1470:6
Broken the covenant -- Contracts cease to be of value.
R1470:6
Despised the cities -- Which, because depending on
commerce, will become very undesirable places. R1470:6
Regardeth no man -- Principles of honor and manhood
will no longer be regarded or trusted. R1470:6
Isaiah 33:9
The earth -- Society in general. R1470:6
Isaiah 33:10
Lift up myself -- The appointed time to overthrow the

present order of things and establish the Kingdom of God
having come. R1874:2
Isaiah 33:11
Ye -- The "sinners in Zion." (Verse 14) R1874:3

Bring forth stubble -- When you draw the worldly into the
nominal church. R1874:3
Your breath -- False doctrines of belief and policy.
R1874:3
As fire -- Shall set her on fire. R1470:6
Shall devour you -- Lead to fearful trouble and
Isaiah 33:12
The people -- Assembled as a religious union. R1874:3

Burnings of lime -- An organization of such heterogeneous
elements must, of necessity, be self-destructive. R1874:3
Like staking lime; the heat will be intensified as the water of
truth is cast on, until the hardness of heart is all dissolved,
bringing them into complete harmony with the laws of the
Millennial Kingdom. R1470:6
As thorns -- The coming religious union will be a union of
thorns; each party will be a thorn in the flesh of the other.
R1874:3; D552, D267
Cut up -- Made ready. R1874:3
Burned in the fire -- Consumed; have their opportunities
for doing evil destroyed. R1470:6
Isaiah 33:14
The sinners in Zion -- In nominal spiritual Zion. D23

Who have forgotten, or failed to keep, their covenant with the
Lord. C304
Wilfully blind leaders and their wilfully blind followers who
love and prefer error. R1874:5
Are afraid -- Of the clouds of the time of trouble. C304
The hypocrites -- Those of the clergy who offer their own
false reasonings along the lines of Evolution as superior to the
Word of God. R1874:6
They are seized with the fear of sectarian fences, gates and
bars; wild lest their hypocrisy be revealed. CR351:2;
HG557:6
Who among us -- A class who will not be consumed.
R1470:6
Like the three Hebrews in the fiery furnace, coming out of the
flames without even the smell of fire upon them. R2087:4*
Everlasting burnings -- The trouble which threatens to
last until the whole present order of things is consumed.
R1875:2, R2087:4*
Isaiah 33:15
Walketh righteously -- Who have no part nor lot with the

workers of iniquity. R1875:2
Contrary to the course of this present world. R1875:4
Speaketh uprightly -- Bold and fearless presentation of
the truth. R1875:4
Gain of oppressions -- Refusing to be profited by any
unrighteous scheme. R2087:3*
Holding of bribes -- Cannot be bribed to do evil.
R2087:3*, R1875:5
Hearing of blood -- Any scheme that might cost another's
life, or wreck him morally, physically or financially.
R1471:1, R2087:3*
From seeing evil -- From beholding evil approvingly or
with quiet acquiescence. R2087:3*
Determined opposition to sin in all its forms and a firm
resistance to it. R3114:4
Isaiah 33:16
He shall -- The Church of Christ. Q270:T

Dwell on high -- Above the fears, unrest and distress
which will overwhelm the world. R1875:5
In the place of divine favor. R2087:4*
Munitions of rocks -- The Rock of Ages. R1875:5
Bread -- The Bread of life, spiritual and physical.
R1875:5
"Give us this day our daily bread." (Matt. 6:11) R5202:4
Shall be given him -- Whatever we have, we acknowledge
our dependence upon the Lord for what he provides for us;
and we ask for nothing beyond what he does provide.
R5202:5
He who sustained Elijah can equally sustain us. R2326:3
His waters -- The water of life, spiritual and physical.
R1875:5
Many of nominal Israel are hungry and thirsty. In the
meantime the Church of Christ is in the protected place.
R5032:1
Shall be sure -- The Lord has promised to provide for our
temporal wants as well as our eternal welfare, not
sumptuously, but nevertheless surely. R1313:1, R1745:2
This may have applied to the Jews at the time of the
destruction of Jerusalem and others who have put their trust in
the Lord. R5031:6; Q269:8
"I shall not want." (Psa. 23:1) R1745:2
Bread, water, plain clothing; but what some fear is the loss of
some of the comforts, the luxuries which God has not
guaranteed us. R832:5
The saints have little to fear from financial disasters.
R2274:5
Isaiah 33:17
Thine eyes shall see -- The eyes of faith shall catch the
inspiration of the glory to be revealed. R2087:5* C304
The king in his beauty -- The beauty of holiness.
R2087:6*
Reigning in power and great glory. R2087:5*
A blessed and inspiring promise. R5863:1
The land -- Paradise restored. C304
That is very far off -- Beyond the vista of a thousand
years. C304
Looking through the telescope of God's Word, it is a glorious
vision. R2087:4*
"But he that lacketh these things is blind and cannot see afar
off." (2 Pet. 1:9) R2097:6*
Isaiah 33:20
Shall see Jerusalem -- Restored earthly Jerusalem and her

priesthood. R35:4*
Isaiah 33:22
The LORD is our king -- Our esteem, homage and

obedience must be to him whom the Lord has appointed, King
Immanuel. R3219:4
Isaiah 33:24
And the inhabitant -- Of paradise restored. C304;

R1072:6*
Not say, I am sick -- The final results at the close of the
Millennium. R1073:1
After the Redeemer shall, during the Millennium, have put
away sin. R4587:2
Isaiah 34
Isaiah 34:1
Ye nations, to hear -- This dashing to pieces as a potter's

vessel will prove a valuable lesson to them when they come
forth to an individual judgment under the Millennial reign.
D20
Let the earth -- The present organization of society.
C229; A323; D46
And all things -- All selfish and evil things. D20
Come forth of it -- Of the spirit of the world. D20
Isaiah 34:2
For the indignation -- The time of trouble. D13

Is upon all nations -- The judgment of nations, now
instituted, is a judgment of men in their collective (civil and
religious) capacities. D12
Including heathendom also, because they have preferred
darkness to light. D70
He hath utterly -- Taking the future standpoint. D20
Hath delivered them -- Judging them unworthy of a
continued lease of power. D70
Isaiah 34:4
The host of heaven -- The nominal church, ecclesiastical

systems. D552; R1947:6, R1705:5, R1488:2; HG316:5
Shall be dissolved -- A symbolic representation of the way
in which the change of dispensation will be effected.
R1814:2
Together as a scroll -- Catholicism and Protestantism, the
two ends. D258, D552, Diii; R4343:3, R3531:4, R1355:6,
R1474:1, R1766:2
Not in one great roll, but in two separate parts, really in
opposition. R1705:5, R2061:6
A concentration to one center--but in two great divisions.
R1474:1
Coming closer together as their power decreases. R1355
Rolling together for mutual protection, sympathy and co-operation.
R5349:4, R1488:2, R3533:1
We see in Germany what seems to be the start of this rolling
together. The Emperor has been obliged to conciliate the
Catholic element of his empire more and more. R3532:1
The two sides clearly divided; as the book of Revelation
clearly distinguishes between the "Image" and the original
"Beast," Papacy; while showing that they will be considerably
in fellowship.
(Rev. 13:15-17) R2047:1, R2046:3
Illustrated by the appointments of ritualists as bishops in the
Church of England, and the elevation of a Roman Cardinal to
the House of Lords as a Lord Bishop. R2309:1; D551
Shall fall down --Fall off, drop out; not all at once, but
gradually, yet rapidly. D552
Isaiah 34:5
To judgment -- Verses 2 to 5 are a symbolic

representation of the way in which the change of dispensation
will be effected. R1814:2
Isaiah 34:6
The blood of lambs -- Of the tribulation saints. D17

And goats -- The "tare" class. D17
Sacrifice in Bozrah -- The name Bozrah signifies "sheep
fold," and the city is even yet noted for its goats. D17
Ecclesiasticism, the chief citadel of Christendom. D17
Isaiah 34:8
The LORD'S vengeance -- The time of trouble. Dll,

D20; OV345:6
A day of rectifying the wrongs of the people. R3841:5
The controversy -- The strife and contention in nominal
Zion. D19
Of Zion -- The saints, the true Church. OV345:6
Isaiah 34:9
Into brimstone -- Destruction. A318

Isaiah 34:10
The smoke thereof -- The remembrance of the destruction

of the present systems of deception and error. R2609:6
Isaiah 35
Isaiah 35:1
Shall be glad for them -- The happy world of mankind.

Q845:1
The earth is to be brought to the perfection primarily designed
for it. R5057:6, R1117:1
Becoming a happy home and worldwide paradise for
mankind. R4768:1; Q845:1
The animal, mineral and vegetable kingdoms will all serve
man's pleasure and supply his needs. R1117:1
The Old Testament tells over and over about these Restitution
Times. CR270:3
And the desert -- Possibly including the now desert
regions of the frigid zones. R3184:5
Much of Israel's promised land--from the Nile to the
Euphrates, including Arabia and parts of Egypt and the
Soudan is now desert --but it shall blossom. Q792:2
Messiah's Kingdom will not only uplift humanity, but will
also bring blessings of perfection to the earth. Eden
eventually will be worldwide. R5364:5
Shall rejoice -- For the microbes of destruction and
disease shall be restrained. R1771:6
Blossom as the rose -- During Messiah's reign Paradise
Lost will become Paradise Regained, as illustrated in Adam's
Eden home. SM48:1; R5060:4, R1117:1, R5057:6,
R6013:5
God has foreseen all the necessities of his plan and will make
ample provision for the needs of his creation in what will
seem a very natural way. A161
Not yet, though it is in process of completion. At the end of
the thousand years of Christ's reign the whole earth shall have
been brought to perfection. R4989:6
The earth shall no more bring forth thorns and briers and
require the sweat of man's face to eat bread. A192
Most barren land can be made rich simply by adding to it
certain mineral elements which cost but little such as
nitrogen, phosphoric acid and potash. R2776:1*
Burbank and others are, under divine guidance, working
miracles in horticulture. R4674:1
We are only in the beginning of the thousand years in which
this will happen. These things are beginning to be
experienced. Human ingenuity and engineering feats are
working miracles. PD95/109
The New Day is ushering in these blessings of increased
fruitfulness through irrigation and science; but it will require
God's power during the thousand years of Christ's reign to
bring the earth to perfection. OV350:T, R4989:6; SM37:1;
C268*
Major climatic changes are gradually preparing the world for
this. PD91/105
Isaiah 35:2
They -- The earth's redeemed millions. R542:1
Isaiah 35:3
Strengthen ye -- Tell them not to let slip valuable

opportunities for service. R2512:3
Those whose faith staggers not at the promises of God are to
encourage those of weaker faith. R542:2*
Confirm -- Make firm. R2512:3
Isaiah 35:4
Be strong -- Those who accept God's strength. R5488:6

Fear not -- Because greater is he that is with you, that is
for you, than all they that be against you. R5488:6
Your God will come -- At the second advent of Christ.
F664, F666
With vengeance -- To bind the Adversary, Satan, and
destroy his works. R542:2*
The transition period following the Gospel age and preceding
the Millennial age is often mentioned as a "Day of
Vengeance" to punish evildoers and prepare the world for the
reign of righteousness. R247:5
With a recompence -- At the same time that destruction
comes to one class, redemption and glory comes to another.
R1385:6
Isaiah 35:5
Then -- Not yet. R4901:3

After Satan shall be bound for the thousand years that he
should deceive the nations no more. (Rev. 20:1) R3026:5
When the Millennial age prevails. E23; R1988:6, R3167:1,
R3026:4, R5336:4; PD64/74; Q426:1
Eyes of the blind -- "The god of this world hath blinded
the minds." (2 Cor. 4:4) E470, R1958:4, R2348:1,
R4901:3; OV393:7; SM680:T, HG145:5
Eyes which cannot see the things of faith, ears which cannot
hear the message of faith. R3504:4
Long-blinded to the glorious light of the goodness of God.
R5716:3
Sin-blinded. R1077:4, R1232:1
Israel shall be saved from their blindness (Rom. 11:25,26)
and not only Israel, but all the families of the earth. R3501:2
Eyes of understanding. R3209:1, R3504:5, R4527:6,
R4534:4, R5455:3, R5485:6; OV382:T
Shall be opened -- In the glorious reign of Messiah.
OV320:3; R4973:2, R5031:2, R5354:4
Typified by the healing of the blind man at the Pool of
Bethesda and the Pool of Siloam. R1396:1, R1400:6,
R2670:2, R5484:2
As a result of Satan being bound for a thousand years that he
may deceive the nations no more. OV381:5, OV253:2
God has promised to deliver mankind from Satan's power and
his blinding influence. R5896:2
The Gospel must ultimately open the eyes of the "blind."
R1786:4
Ignorance and prejudice being removed. R517:4*, R790:5
All shall come to an accurate knowledge of the truth.
R1180:4
To see the divine character and attributes. R5737:2,
R5485:6; OV169:6
As a consequence, the true knowledge of the Lord shall fill
the whole earth as the waters cover the great deep. (Isa. 11:9)
R2432:6
Not only will the bodies of men be thus blessed, but their
minds and hearts will be similarly liberated from the fetters of
ignorance, superstition and sin. R1773:6
The Jew first, and also the Gentiles. R5832:2
Every eye shall see that the Kingdom is established,
R5455:4, R4522:2, R4617:5, R5066:6, R5465:4, SM172:2
While still having room for the exercise of faith, men will, to
a very considerable degree, then walk by sight. R4908:6
Not seeing his presence with the natural sight, but clearly
seeing with the eyes of understanding, all will appreciate his
character and rejoice therein. OV57:4
The miracles and cures performed by Jesus were small
illustrations of the great work of his Millennial Kingdom.
R5104:4, R2000:4, R5065:3, R5485:2, R1773:6, R2414:5;
PD64/74
Ears -- Of appreciation. R3504:5
Of the deaf -- Those who have not had "ears to hear"
during this present age. R2117:1
Prejudice--stopped. R1077:4, R1232:1
Long deaf to the voice of truth. R5716:3
Deafened by the babel and clamor which the god of this
world induces and perpetuates for this purpose. R3167:1
Be unstopped -- Sweeping away the ignorance and
superstitions which entangle humanity. SM130:2
So that they may hear the truth and understand and appreciate
it. R2310:6
All will see, all will hear, all will know of the love of God.
SM130:2, R174:2
Thank God our eyes are already opening and our ears are
being unstopped. R4522:2
Isaiah 35:6
The lame man -- Lame in character. R2310:5

Leap as an hart -- The world's greatest hospital will be in
full operation for the next 1,000 years at the hands of the
Great Physician and his under physicians. The work will be
done by processes of testing, trial, judgments, disciplines.
CR209:5*, CR210:1*
Sing -- Speak forth the praises of the Deliverer. R2310:6
Isaiah 35:6
Waters break out -- To have a literal, as well as a spiritual

fulfilment. R2776:2
While especially applicable to Israel and the now barren land
of Palestine, the same blessings of restitution are also due to
the whole earth. R1380:1
Irrigation by artesian wells and aqueducts. R4673:6,
R5057:6; PD95/109
Streams -- Truth. R542:4*
Great physical changes in the Harvest, so that the earth may
go gradually to the fullest perfection. R879:5
In the desert -- Thus making ample provision for the
needs of the millions brought forth from the tomb. A161;
R607:2
Isaiah 35:7
Dragons -- Error and vice. R542:4*

Shall be grass -- Rapid and healthy growth of virtue.
R542:4*
Isaiah 35:8
And an highway -- The established New covenant.

R1520:6
Open to all. R2428:2*
A public roadway, not a narrow way. E240; A215;
R1248:2, R1772:6, R5055:2, R542:4*, R1791:1, R34:1*;
HG180:6
"Cast up the highway, gather out the stones." (Isa. 62:10)
A217, E240; R1248:2
Designed to lead to the Edenic condition, from which the
broad way had led them. R4246:1*
Will lead from imperfection to perfection, restitution.
R4575:5
There is no place on the highway of holiness for wilful
transgressors. R4811:5
Will be opened up through Israel, through the Ancient
Worthies, through the New covenant made with them.
R4575:5
Shall be there -- When the great King takes control of
affairs. Q331:5
No such way now exists. It will not open until the narrow
way closes. A216; CR497:1; Q331:1, Q829:2
There will be no such highway until the great King takes
control of affairs, overthrows the present order of things and
sets up the Kingdom of heaven. R5245:1
And a way -- A way in which the human family as a whole
will be invited to return to harmony with God through the
Great Mediator under the terms of the New covenant.
R2075:1
It will be a way of righteousness, but not a way of sacrifice,
as is the present narrow way. R2590:5
The way of life and the way of death will be before them.
Each must make his own choice. Whoever refuses to go up
thereon will go down into the second Death. CR497:6
It will be an upward way; exertion will be required. Q332:T,
F713; R2590:5, R5245:2, R1772:6
Gently sloping upward to life, for a grand reversal of public
sentiment will make the way easy of ascent. R1520:6
The way of holiness -- To grand human perfection, God's
image and to everlasting life. D634; HG616:3; R860:4;
A215
The way of life shall be made plain and easy. A215;
R1450:3, R1248:2, R2063:5
It will accomplish the straightening of every crooked path.
R2563:5
Leading, not to the throne, but to the Edenic condition, from
which the broad way had led men. R4246:1*
The way to human perfection requires only the putting away
of sin; not the sacrifice of human rights and privileges, but
their proper enjoyment. A215; E240
Unclean shall not pass -- All who refuse to go up on the
highway shall "be destroyed from among the people." (Acts
3:23) R2331:6
The evildoers having been cut off long before. R1773:2
Those who refuse to make progress along the highway shall
die at one hundred years of age. (Isa. 65:20) E478; Q805:3
Though fools -- Though unacquainted therewith;
unlearned. A215; R852:2, R1248:2, R1363:6, R5737:2;
CR497:2
Though simple. R4617:5
Though unsophisticated. R3026:5
Shall not err therein -- Need not err. R3199:1
"They shall all know me, from the least of them unto the
greatest of them." (Jer. 31:34) A215
Every obstruction will be removed from their path. CR497:1;
R542:4*
Isaiah 35:9
No lion -- Of temptation or degenerate public sentiment.

A217, CR497:1
Of opposition; to threaten, to discourage. R1772:6
Nothing to hurt, destroy or intimidate from well doing.
R2590:6
All obstacles shall be removed from the way of holiness.
R717:4*
Satan. "Your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion." (1 Pet.
5:8) Q785:2; R825:3, R2590:6
Any ravenous beast -- Fierce temptations. R1055:3,
R2075:1
No beasts of strong drink or passion shall be there to hinder.
HG187:4
Giant corporations, organized to advance selfish interests at
the expense of the general good. A217
False systems and false doctrines. R1227:4
Go up thereon -- The lifting up out of death will be a
gradual progress and gradual attainment, an upward ascending
path requiring effort and overcoming. Q332:T, F713;
R2590:5, R5245:2, R1772:6
The upward course toward life--the resurrection, or rising up,
toward complete recovery from the fall. F718
But the redeemed -- All for whom Christ died. HG180:6
Shall walk there -- Only those who flee from the
defilements of sin. R542:4*
Isaiah 35:10
And the ransomed -- The whole human race. "He gave

himself a ransom for all." (1 Tim. 2:6) R1520:6; CR497:2;
HG336:1, HG514:5; A216; Q785:2
Shall return -- From destruction, by the grand highway of
holiness. A218; R526:4, R903:4*
To Zion -- God's fortress. R526:4
With songs -- For the time of their blessing will then be at
hand; their hearts will be made glad with the knowledge of
the truth that they may obtain eternal life in a state of
happiness. HG514:5
Throughout the whole of the cleansed world, praises shall
ascend to God and to him who loved us and redeemed us with
the one sacrifice of himself. R3228:3
Shall flee away -- Gradually and forever during the
Messianic reign. OV147:2
The opportunity of suffering with Christ and sacrificing will
then be at an end. R5250:5
Isaiah 36
Isaiah 36:1
All the defenced cities -- Passing down the Mediterranean

coast, overthrowing Sidonians and Philistines, to Joppa and
further south; then eastward to Lachish--nearly forty cities of
Judah fell. R4832:6
Isaiah 36:2
From Lachish to Jerusalem -- Recorded on the "Taylor

cylinder" now in the British Museum; which boasts of
Hezekiah's mistake, but omits his subsequent victory.
R2382:4
Isaiah 36:8
Give pledges -- The penalty was a heavy one, amounting

to nearly one million dollars, a much larger sum then than
today. R4832:6
Isaiah 36:10
The LORD said unto me -- Taking cognizance of the fact

that Israel trusted in Jehovah, they first declared that the
Assyrians were sent there by Jehovah for the very purpose of
overthrowing the kingdom. R2381:2
Isaiah 36:17
Like your own land -- Promising them homes and

circumstances similar to those they then enjoyed, the object
being to obliterate the feelings of patriotism in the various
peoples conquered. R2381:2
Isaiah 37
Isaiah 37:1
King Hezektah -- God himself was King of Israel,

Hezekiah his representative upon the throne. R1358:4
Isaiah 37:7
A blast -- Some have supposed that it was a simoon, or

sandstorm, not uncommon in the vicinity of the Arabian
desert. Jewish tradition ascribes the destruction to a
pestilence. R2382:2
Isaiah 37:14
Hezekiah -- We may admire his sterling character; he was

a great reformer in his day. R1358:6
Isaiah 37:15
Hezekiah prayed -- Because fear prevailed in Jerusalem.

R4833:1
For deliverance, but this was not a precedent for other nations
to follow. R1358:5
Isaiah 37:16
God of Israel -- Israel was under a special covenant with

God; and Hezekiah was their sovereign and arbiter of their
destiny. R4832:3
a foundation of justice. T124
Always connected with the immediate presence or throne of
God. R529:6*
Isaiah 37:17
Incline thine ear -- The king and people sought the Lord
in prayer. R4833:1
Sennacherib -- Loudly proclaimed his victories, warning
the people not to trust in their God. R4833:1
Violated his compact not to attack Jerusalem. R4832:6
Isaiah 37:18
Assyria -- Threatened to become the first universal empire.

R4832:3
Laid waste -- Whole country filled with fear as nearly
forty cities of Judah fell. R4832:6
Isaiah 37:19
Gods into the fire -- The gods of other peoples all failed
before Sennacherib. R4833:1
Isaiah 37:20
Our God, save us -- Fear prevailed in Jerusalem. R4833:1

Israel was God's peculiar people, under his special protection
and care. R1358:3
Isaiah 37:21
Isaiah -- Hezekiah's faithful friend and advisor, and

supposed tutor in earlier years. R2381:3
Isaiah 37:22
This is the word -- Evidently intended to be the answer

which Hezekiah should send to Sennacherib through
Rabshekah. R2381:5
Isaiah 37:29
Hook...bridle -- Figurative, representing the manner in

which bullocks and horses are controlled--thus would the
Lord control the Assyrian army. R2381:5
Isaiah 37:30
This shall be a sign -- That the retreat of Sennacherib's

army was not just temporary, and that he would not come
upon them again. R2382:4
Isaiah 37:33
Thus saith the LORD -- Israel's history shows how God

actually did deal with them. R1358:6
He shall not come -- God honored Hezekiah's prayer for
"The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth and delivereth
them." (Psa. 34:17) R1358:6
Isaiah 37:35
I will defend -- As long as they were obedient they had

prosperity and no evil could befall them. R1358:4
The lesson for us is to note divine power which overrules,
orders and directs that all things work together for good.
R4833:4
Isaiah 37:36
Angel of the LORD -- Jehovah fought Israel's battles

anciently without being seen. R286:3
Wind, fire or lightning may be the Lord's messengers or
angels. R4833:2, R2382:2
Smote -- The messenger of death may have been a
malignant form of fever. R4833:2
Egyptian history records the departure of Sennacherib's army,
ascribing its retreat to an invasion of field mice, gnawing the
quivers, bowstrings and thongs--but perhaps figurative of the
pestilence, represented in Egypt by the mouse. R2382:2
Assyrians -- It was not the Lord's will that Assyria should
become the first universal empire. R4833:4
Isaiah 38
Isaiah 38:1
In those days -- Somewhere in the period of time when

"Hezekiah had exceeding much riches and honor." (2 Chron.
32:27) R2382:5
731 BC, 125 years before the overthrow of Zedekiah;
corresponding to the date of the French Revolution in 1789
AD, from which Christendom recovered, though it must have
seemed to be a "sickness unto death." R3574:2*
Was Hezekiah sick -- With a malignant ulcer. R3588:1
Had somewhat to do with Hezekiah's prosperity and pride.
R2382:6
Was neither of divine nor Satanic infliction, but a natural
effect from some natural cause. R3588:2
All sickness and death are indirectly the result of Satan's
work, whose deception brought the death penalty. R3588:1
Thine house in order -- Make proper preparations for the
interests of the Kingdom, disposition of property, your
funeral, and for your successor. R3588:2
It is the duty of the Lord's stewards to leave their affairs in
such shape that those who take up the work can do so
intelligently. R3588:2
Thou shalt die -- Nothing in Hezekiah's conduct indicated
that he had fear of torment. R3588:3
Isaiah 38:2
Hezekiah...prayed -- Instead of rejoicing that he was

about to go to heaven. R3588:3
He would have died had he not prayed. R3588:5
Does not imply that we should make specific requests for
recovery from illness. R3588:5
The difference between our relationship to the Lord and that
of Hezekiah is that we have surrendered earthly life and
interests for the spiritual. R3588:5
Isaiah 38:3
And said -- A brief summary of his prayer. R3588:4

Not a boastful prayer, for he freely acknowledged his sins.
(Verse 17) R3588:4
A perfect heart -- We all should be able to claim such in
our walk. R3588:4
Hezektah wept sore -- Hezekiah did not rejoice in the
thought of death. R3588:3
Isaiah 38:5
Heard thy prayer -- The Lord can arrange certain matters

as easily one way as another without interference with his
general plans. R3588:5
Isaiah 38:7
A sign -- Hezekiah requested a sign. (See 2 Kings 20:8)

R3588:6
For a confirmation of faith and not because of disbelief.
R3589:1, R2383:1
The New Creation, walking by faith and not by sight. should
avoid putting the Lord to tests and signs. R3589:1
Isaiah 38:8
Ten degrees backward -- This was more difficult to be

accounted for and therefore the surer test. R3589:2
Representing the 10 years from the beginning of the Time of
the End in 1799 to the French Revolution in 1789. R3574:3*
So the sun -- Could result if the upper atmosphere be in
that condition which causes two parhelia, or mock suns, to
appear on opposite sides of the sun, while clouds hide the real
sun and the eastern mock sun. R3589:2, R2383:1
Isaiah 38:9
Writing of Hezekiah -- Verses 9 to 22 record, in poetic

form, his resolves, embodying his previous prayer, with
thanksgiving for deliverance. R2382:6, R3589:4
Isaiah 38:10
Gates of the grave -- Good King Hezekiah expected and

declared that he was going to hell (sheol--"the grave").
HG335:1
Sheol, oblivion, death, not torment. E370; R2600:2
Residue of my years -- Years Hezekiah might reasonably
have expected to enjoy. E371
Isaiah 38:15
Hath done it -- I freely acknowledge that it was not the

lump of figs but the Lord, who produced the recovery.
R3589:4
Isaiah 38:17
In love to my soul -- My being. E371

All my sins -- He freely acknowledged his sins. R3588:4
Isaiah 38:18
For the grave -- Sheol, oblivion, death, not torment.

E371: R2600:2, R3589:5
Cannot praise thee -- It is a place of silence, forgetfulness
and absolute unconsciousness. HG335:4, HG121:5
"The dead know not anything." (Eccl. 9:5) R1881:5
Death can not -- "For in death there is no remembrance of
thee; in sheol (hell, the tomb) who shall give thee thanks?"
(Psa. 6:4, 5) SM525:T
Isaiah 38:19
Shall praise thee -- His proper desires were to live, serve

and praise the Lord. R3589:5
Isaiah 38:21
Take a lump of figs -- Instead of healing him without

remedies. R3588:4
We should recognize behind the remedial agents, the will of
God. R3588:4
Isaiah 38:22
What is the sign -- The Lord's people of the New Creation

are advised not to ask signs of the Lord nor to make tests.
"We walk by faith, not by sight." (2 Cor. 5:7) R3589:1
Isaiah 39
Isaiah 39:1
Babylon -- Just as France once more favored Papacy.

R3574:2*
Isaiah 39:5
Then said Isaiah -- Reproving Hezekiah for unwisely

showing the foreigners the great wealth of his treasuries.
R2383:5
Isaiah 39:8
Good is the word -- Showing prompt resignation to the

In my days -- The King of Babylon would despoil the city,
but not in Hezekiah's day. R2383:5
Isaiah 40
Isaiah 40:1
Comfort ye my people -- Natural Israel. E357;

R1325:4, R5568:2, R2605:4
Because the "double" is completed, we may speak the words
of comfort. SM398:1; R599:5, R1405:3, R4110:3,
R5503:2, R5234:6, R2296:6, R2361:5, R2526:1
It is not our expectation that the Jews would return to
Palestine as Christians. R4764:4
God's attitude toward the Jews is typified by Joseph's full
forgiveness of his brethren, recognizing that their crucifixion
of Messiah was merely a carrying out of the divine purpose.
R5234:6
Isaiah 40:2
Speak ye -- The Church. R1378:6

Earnest Christians armed with the power of divine truth.
R1379:2
Zionism from a prophetic standpoint seems to stir the Jewish
heart as the subject never did politically. R4764:5
Were it not for a share in the work of gathering out the Bride,
we would be in Jerusalem to do a part in the great work of
turning away blindness from Jacob. R1395:5
Preaching to the Jews the return of divine favor as a people
before they believe in Christ; and that, with this favor, would
come the opening of their blinded eyes to recognize in Christ
Jesus the Sun of Righteousness. R1325:4
Comfortably -- A new message for Israel of the return of
To Jerusalem -- From 1878 AD onward. B227, B258,
R2361:4, R5568:2, R4110:3
The natural seed. R1378:6
One of the signs of a new dispensation would be the
sprouting, or indication of life, hope, promise. amongst the
Jews. R5503:2
Thirty years ago I attempted to tell Israel the good tidings but
God's set time for Israel to hear was still future. I am still
waiting for God's own time and way for the fulfilment of Isa.
40:1,2 (1910). SM480:1
Not that Jerusalem is going to hear at first. Q379:3
That her warfare -- Her appointed time of waiting
(margin). C258, C288; R1043:4, R2605:4
The time of their national death and torment. R2605:4
They will leave their hadean state (national death) and
torment and become the first of the nations to be blessed.
HG387:4
Her time of sorrow. OV78:2
"That is determined shall be poured upon that desolate one (or
cast off people)" till her cup be full of sorrow. (Dan. 9:27)
B72
They were sentenced to a "double" or repetition of their
already long period of waiting, during which God would
show them no favor, manifest no interest in them. R1202:4
Is accomplished -- The time is evidently not far distant
when their national hope will be rehabilitated and they shall
rejoice again as a people. PD53/65
After divine wrath has burned out their national transgression,
even searching them out to the very lowest oblivion (sheol).
(Deut. 32:22) E357
Every evidence of the return of divine favor to fleshly Israel is
an evidence that divine favor to spiritual Israel is gradually
drawing to a close. R2361:6
As in many other prophecies, the standpoint of the future is
taken and the things are spoken of as accomplished facts.
R1754:6
Her iniquity is pardoned -- "His blood be upon us and
upon our children." (Matt. 27:24) R2786:4
She hath received -- Where their double of waiting for the
Kingdom expired; the Kingdom did come in 1878 AD.
R1202:4; SM400:1; CR104:3,5
Therefore the "rich man" (Israel) will walk out of his fiery
troubles over the bridge of God's promises yet unfulfilled to
that nation. (Luke 16:19-31) R2605:1
As divine favor was gradually taken from Israel, so we expect
the return of favor will be gradual. SM401:1, SM403:2
LORD'S hand double -- Her double, kophel, as of a thing
folded in the middle; "I will recompense their iniquity and
their sin double unto them." (Jer. 16:18) B227, B218
The period of Israel's disfavor, from AD 33 to 1878, was to be
of the same length, 1845 years, as the period of her favor
from the death of Jacob to the death of Christ. B219;
R1202:1
The second portion, of two equal parts. R1378:6, R5235:1;
HG53:2; CR141:2, CR104:2; SM398:1, SM400:1
The period of their blindness is the second part of the
"double." With the fulfilment of that "double" their blindness
will begin to vanish and "all the blind eyes shall be opened."
SM398:T, CR105:4
Since that time we have seen a marked beginning and the
gradual progress of the turning away of blindness from fleshly
Israel. R1405:3
Since 1878, the star of Judaism has been rising. R5568:2,
R5920:6, R599:5
Isaiah 40:3
The voice of him -- Verses 3 to 7 are God's message to

In John 1:19-27 John the Baptist claimed to be the
fulfilment. R1736:3
The message of John the Baptist was typical of the message
of God through his consecrated people to nominal
Churchianity and the world. HG457:3; E44
Foreseeing Israel's rejection of John's testimony; the Lord had
in mind the Gospel Church as another antitypical Elias.
R1687:6, R1379:2
The same voice that speaks to the Jews words of comfort
warns Christians that we are on the eve of strenuous times.
HG457:2
Prepare ye -- If the kings of earth and the financial and
ecclesiastical princes would promptly and thoroughly
establish righteousness in the earth, Messiah's Kingdom
would be introduced peaceably. HG457:5
The way of the LORD -- Of Jehovah, making his footstool
glorious. E43
The Kingdom of Messiah, offered typically to the Jews
eighteen centuries ago, is now about to be inaugurated in
power and great glory. HG457:3
Make straight -- John did not fulfil all of the prophecy,
clearing the way and preparing for Messiah's Kingdom.
R4113:4
A highway -- Highway of holiness. (Isa. 35:8,9) R1248:2,
R1772:6
Isaiah 40:4
Every valley -- Of despair and discouragement. R1772:6

The meek and humble. R1379:2
Be exalted -- The humble lifted out of degradation.
R4113:5; HG457:6
Every mountain -- Of difficulty. R1772:6
Kingdom. R5575:4
And hill -- Smaller governments of earth. R5575:4
Be made low -- The conditions of society will be leveled.
R4113:5, R332:4; HG457:6
The great ones in politics, theology and finance feel confident
that the valleys and hills of society will never come to a level.
R1379:4
In consequence of this gradual leveling of society the final
adjustment to the requirements of the Kingdom will be
proportionately less than in an autocracy. HG458:2
The Income Tax is a part of this leveling. HG458:2
By the great time of trouble. It will doubtless be a short and
sharp work. HG458:2
The city of Quito, Ecuador, the highest city in the world, has
subsided 76 feet in the past 122 years; this prophecy may also
have a literal fulfilment. R1215:3
And the crooked -- The perverse. R332:3
The crooked ruts in which the present evil order of things is
running. R1379:2
The rough places -- Errors, inconsistencies, false doctrines
and stumbling-stones. R1379:3
Isaiah 40:5
And the glory -- The blessing and salvation. T84

"And the glory of the Lord appeared unto all the people."
(Lev. 9:23) T83
The majesty of his righteous character and government.
R1379:3, R2463:1
Of the LORD -- Jehovah. No conflict here for it can be
said with propriety that Messiah will sit upon the Throne, or
Kingdom of Jehovah. HG458:2
Shall be revealed -- In the Millennial age. T83; R2371:2,
R3345:6, R5032:2
Through The Christ. (Rom. 16:27) R385:1*, R1394:5
After the suffering of Christ (Head and Body) shall be
complete. R2581:1
When the day of trouble ends, then he who spoke to the
raging Sea of Galilee will likewise, with authority, command
the raging sea of human passion, saying "Peace! Be Still!"
A171
The full blessing of God will come to earth again. R4973:2
And all flesh -- The whole world of mankind. T83;
R2402:4, R3345:6
Not merely the Jews. A59
The dead as well as the living. R2402:4
Shall see it -- Appreciate it. R1379:3
Recognize God's gracious love more and more each day. T83
Now we must "walk by faith, and not by sight"--but the world
will walk by sight. OV129:5
The burning of "the fire of God's jealousy" and the breaking
of "the rod of iron" will be the new missionary method by
which the glorified Church will bring in "everlasting
righteousness." (Zech. 3:8, 9; Rev. 2:27) R2462:6
Even though they call for the rocks and mountains to cover
them that they may remain in the dark. (Hos. 10:8) R192:6*
Isaiah 40:6
All flesh is grass -- Sinful flesh, which cannot please God.

R208:6
There was a time when Adam and Eve held daily communion
with God before sin entered, when they that were in the flesh
could please God. R208:6
Isaiah 40:7
The grass withereth -- "The wages of sin is death."

(Rom. 6:23) R208:6
Spirit of the LORD bloweth -- It will require only a
breath from the Lord to scatter all the might and power and
glory of earthly institutions. R1379:4
The spirit of righteousness, sent forth, will cause the day of
trouble in which all humanity will wither as grass. HG458:5
Isaiah 40:8
The flower fadeth -- All who oppose his plan will fade in
the great Day of Wrath which will burn as an oven. R1379:4
Word of our God -- Many professed teachers are heartily
opposed to Bible study. R4857:6
Shall stand for ever -- Shining more and more brightly
down to the very end of this Gospel age. R4858:1
It is possible to endeavor to destroy God's Word, though all
such efforts will fail. R2401:1
Attempts to destroy it may include: rejecting it, speaking of
its truths irreverently, neglecting it, forbidding it, persecuting
its advocates, misrepresenting it or skipping over and ignoring
certain of its teachings. R2401:4
Isaiah 40:9
O Zion -- The one true Church, represented by its last

living members, the only ones who know and can proclaim
the tidings of Restitution. R1379:5
Get thee up -- Into the glorified spiritual condition.
R1379:5
O Jerusalem -- The faithful ones of fleshly Israel will
come into prominence by reason of the leaders God will raise
up. R1379:5
Be not afraid -- When men's hearts are failing them for
fear, God's people may rejoice that their redemption is near.
R1379:4
Cities of Judah -- All who shall then be in covenant
relationship with God. R1379:5
Behold your God -- Is here. R1379:5
Isaiah 40:10
The Lord GOD -- Adonai Jehovah. E46

Will come -- To administer appropriate future rewards and
punishments. R723:4, R2613:5
With strong hand -- Against the strong one, Satan.
R1379:5
And his arm -- The Lord Jesus. E47, R1379:5
Reward is with him -- Not having been previously given.
R2613:5
Isaiah 40:11
He shall -- To feed the flock is the Lord's province. F283

Feed his flock -- The Little Flock, all that follow him.
R1379:5
Using such human instrumentalities as are sufficiency
humble. F283
Like a shepherd -- The lambs and sheep make one flock,
and there is but one shepherd who superintends and cares for
all. R118:3*
The Lord's care for even the weakest of the flock in the day of
his presence. R633:4
Gather the lambs -- The weakest ones of his true sheep.
R1379:6
Though scattered over the hills of sectarianism, he calls his
own sheep together into one fold, one Church, as it was at
first. R633:4
Gently lead those -- Such teachers and evangelists as are
of the Lord's true sheep. R1379:6
That are with young -- "Woe unto them that are with
child and to them that give suck in those days." (Matt. 24:19)
R1379:5
Isaiah 40:12
In a balance -- Very moderate language in his description

of the majestic power and greatness of the Creator. R5210:3;
SM468:1
Isaiah 40:15
Small dust -- Man is so small in the sight of the great

Creator that we wonder that God should have any interest at
all in humanity. R4972:2
Isaiah 40:22
Sitteth -- Highly figurative and poetic language, not

proving the firmament to be a solid structure. R1812:2
Isaiah 40:28
Neither is weary -- He is ever active and his strength is

equal to his activity. R1283:6*
God's rest is in the strength of his nature, the security of his
position, the satisfaction of his work, and the certainty of his
success. R1283:6*
Isaiah 40:29
He giveth power -- Let your faith grow strong by

meditation upon the promises. R5381:5*
Isaiah 40:31
They that wait --Time is necessary for the working out of

his kind providences in our individual affairs; for God works
on philosophical principles for lasting and blessed results.
R1840:5
Renew their strength -- By again going over the proofs of
our faith the Lord will strengthen our heart. R5712:6
By the voice of God's truth speaking to his people today.
R4741:5
"As the days of a tree are the days of my people." (Isa.
65:22) R1649:5
As eagles -- Living high above the world, farseeing; having
eyes adapted to looking at the light; representing intelligently
earnest Christians. R229:4
Isaiah 41
Isaiah 41:4
The first, and with the last -- God is the only one that
should be recognized. Q361:1; CR276:5
All others go into forgetfulness. I will be the God eventually,
in the end. Q361:1
Isaiah 41:6
Of good courage -- A right kind of courage, a godly

courage. R5330:1
Isaiah 41:8
Abraham my friend -- Being in heart accord with God,

Abraham was granted a measure of covenant relationship.
R4595:3
Isaiah 41:10
Fear thou not -- He who exercises much faith may have

quietude. R5345:5
For I am with thee -- We need this assurance to carry out
the responsibilities of the Lord's service. R1652:1
Hand of my righteousness -- With the power of his truth.
R1307:6
Isaiah 41:14
Thy redeemer -- The Father. All that our Redeemer has

done for us has been the carrying out of the Plan of Jehovah.
R4085:3
Isaiah 41:18
I will open rivers -- Now commencing to be fulfilled.

R1379:6*
Isaiah 41:21
Produce your cause -- To scoffers we say: Account for the

peculiar fitness of the testimony of the "stone witness" by
your worldly wisdom. C374
Isaiah 41:22
Let them -- The fallen angels. R2172:6

Shew us what shall happen -- Scoffers: Venture to
prophesy of the future and see how well your prophecies will
result. C374
The former things -- Things before, or to come. R2172:6
Things for to come -- Scoffers: Prove that it requires no
inspiration to foretell future events. C374
Isaiah 41:23
That ye are gods -- Mighty ones. C374; R2172:6
Isaiah 42
Isaiah 42:1
Mine elect -- Jesus and the Church. R3587:4; E41

His well beloved Son, the chief of all the elect. R3109:1,
R5576:3
Bring forth judgment -- The work of the Lord's Anointed,
Head and Body, in conferring restitution blessings upon
mankind during the Millennial age. R3587:4
To the Gentiles -- As well as to the Jews. A58, A59
Isaiah 42:2
He shall not cry -- Jesus' preaching was reasonable and

delivered with dignity and meekness. R646:2, R1468:4,
R3070:5
Let us, likewise, endeavor to present God's truth in all its
native simplicity and beauty and trust its inherent power to
win its way in due time to every heart. R651:4*
Nor lift up -- "Nor call aloud" (Leeser). R646:2
Heard in the street -- Neither the Bible nor sound
judgment dictates street quarreling for the truth's sake.
R1468:4
Like the Salvation Army of the present day. R2597:4
Isaiah 42:3
A bruised reed -- See comments on Matt. 12:20.

If there be even a slight disposition to penitence, God fosters
and cherishes it. R1614:5
Shall he not break -- So, on the highway of holiness, if
there is any tendency to appreciate divine favors, the Lord
will not break off such a one at 100 years. R1772:5
So also the Lord's people who are strong in faith are taught to
bear with weaker ones. R2163:4*
The smoking flax -- Faith, in its beginning, is always
weak; but God does not despise the day of small things.
R2163:4*; F684
Shall he not quench -- On the highway of holiness, if
there is even a smouldering spark of love toward God, the
Lord will fan it into a blaze. R1772:5
Judgment unto truth -- Right, according to the truth.
R527:6*
Eventually bringing every thought into captivity to the will of
God. R1772:5
Isaiah 42:4
He shall not fail -- He comes to do a variety of work and

shall not leave it nor return until he hath accomplished to put
down all authority and power. R631:5
All God's purposes shall be accomplished. A95
Nor be discouraged -- Throughout the Gospel age the
various agencies of evil, the civil power and subsequently the
civil and ecclesiastical powers in combination, have seemed
to thoroughly block the way for the development of the living
stones of the Kingdom. R3651:3
Till he have -- Present enlightenment of the people and
their incidental discontent are merely means toward the great
end that he has in view. R1770:2
Set judgment -- Having first selected and glorified his
saints. R631:5
Established righteousness, justice, on a lasting basis. R770:1,
R764:4, R527:5, R569:1, R1770:2
Isaiah 42:5
Stretched them out -- "Stretched them forth" (R.V.)

Highly figurative and poetic language, not proving the
firmament to be a solid structure. R1812:2
Isaiah 42:6
Will hold thine hand -- By sending an angel to minister to

Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane. R1801:5
And will keep thee -- From falling or failure. R1801:4
And give thee -- The Christ. R3109:2; Q195:4
"Against thee" (Leeser). As the world's representative, God
would appoint or enter into a covenant with Jesus on behalf of
the people. R3109:1
For a covenant -- Sacrificed in the interests of a covenant,
the New covenant. R4321:3
Not that they become the covenant, but that there could be no
covenant without Christ and the Church because it is the
blood of Christ that constitutes the sealing value of the New
covenant. Q195:4
The New covenant is given to Israel and the world only
indirectly; the Father's dealings are not with Israel, nor the
world, but with the Mediator. R3109:2
As the Mediator through whom the covenant towards our race
will be fulfilled. R3109:2, R4571:5
Of the people -- Israel. R4321:3
Light of the Gentiles -- The Hebrew nation will be
lightbearers to all other nations. R5768:6
To enable them all to come under the blessings of Israel's
New covenant. R4321:3
The Gospel was to be told to the Jew first, but also to the
Gentiles. R3010:2
"Of the nations" (Leeser). R3109:1
Not yet dawned--waiting for the completion of the
resurrection of The Christ. R751:3*
Isaiah 42:7
To open -- Under the New covenant the Lord will remove

their blindness. Q171:3
Our Lord must do these things at his first advent, and in a
measure begin the work of restitution, so that Israel could
recognize him and be responsible for rejecting him and his
"works." R2000:4
The Gospel must ultimately open the eyes of the blind.
R1786:4
Blind eyes -- Eyes of understanding. R1396:4, R3504:5
To bring out -- Applied by our Lord to himself; but he did
not break open the prison-house of death and set all the
captives free by resurrection immediately upon his own
The prisoners -- Death's captives. HG137:1; R930:6;
A112
From the prison -- From death. E41; R4793:2, R458:4*
The tomb, sheol, hades. From this prison none can break
forth, but all are prisoners of hope. SM611:1; R5151:1
Sit in darkness -- By contrast with those who walk in the
light and run for the prize. A25
Isaiah 42:8
I am the LORD -- Jehovah. E41

The distinctive, personal name of the Almighty Father should
not be translated; the distinctiveness is lost by its being
generally translated "LORD." R338:3, R1410:6, R379:2
That is my name -- The name Jehovah signifies the "Self-Existing
One" or "The Immortal One." E40
"I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by the
name El Shaddai (God Almighty), but by my name Jehovah
was I not known unto them." (Exo. 6:3) R1410:6
And my glory -- My honor as the original lawgiver. E41;
F396
Will I not give -- The glory of the Son never has and never
will eclipse the glory of the Father. The Son never attempted
to diminish the Father's glory, but always to add to it. R920:1
Isaiah 42:13
LORD shall go forth -- When he rises up in judgment

against the nations. D549
A man of war -- While the Lord forbids his people to fight
with carnal weapons and declares himself to be a God of
peace, he also declares himself to be a God of justice, and
shows that evil shall not forever triumph in the world. D549
Shall cry, yea, roar -- By means of his great army. D549
Isaiah 42:16
The blind -- The hour is near when all the blinded ones
who are now feeling after God shall have the eyes of their
understanding opened and shall find the "way." R2090:6
Darkness -- Ignorance. SM266:T
Isaiah 42:19
Who is blind -- To earthly ambitions, prospects and

worldly wisdom. R3176:6
With this blindness Jehovah is well pleased. R3176:6
But my servant -- Our Lord Jesus, and incidentally, the
Church, his Body. R3176:6
Perfect -- Surrendered, devoted. R3176:6
Isaiah 42:20
But -- Omit this word. R3176:6

Observest not -- Heedeth not. It is not that we do not see
earthly advantages, but we purposely reject them, closing our
eyes to all earthly allurements. R3176:6
Isaiah 42:21
Magnify the law -- Bring out its fine points. R1463:2*

Our Lord showed how far-reaching and comprehensive are its
requirements. SM352:3; R5756:1
The lengths, breadths, heights and depths of the meaning of
the Law were seen by none until taught by Jesus. R5286:2
Shown to have a still higher and deeper scope than was ever
previously comprehended. R3176:6
Failure to perceive the spirit of the Law was one of the
reasons why Israel could not get eternal life. R5071:5
Christ kept the Law in its minutest and widest sense, and
proved it a just and perfect Law which a perfect man could
keep; thereby proving the fault to be in man and not in the
Law. R678:5, R3176:6
The Law said, "Thou shalt not kill," but Christ magnified that
when he taught that whomsoever hateth his brother without a
cause is guilty of murder. (Matt. 5:21,22, 27, 28) HG582:5*
Christ magnified the Sabbath law by teaching that the Jew
gave God one-seventh of his time, but the Christian is to give
him seven-sevenths. HG583:1*
Make it honourable -- Jesus kept the Law, proving that it
could be kept and that the fault lay with mankind. R5071:6,
R4451:6, R1462:3, R678:5
In bringing it down to the comprehension of sinful men, God
was obliged to state it in such a way as to meet the exigencies
of their case; and so it abounds in commands and
prohibitions. R1462:3
Isaiah 43
Isaiah 43:2
Through the waters -- Afflictions, disappointments,

perplexity, trouble; the school of experience, discipline and
testing. R4005:1, R1857:5
We are not to float with the current but endure hardness.
R4005:1
He will pull us safely over to the other side. R4005:4
It is a mistake to claim these promises literally, as they were
to fleshly Israel only. R1408:3
A covenant of blessing and protection to Israel as long as they
were loyal and obedient. R1409:2
I will be with thee -- In every trouble, sympathizing with
us in all of our trials, adversities, afflictions, perplexities, etc.
R4005:1
With consolation of heart and sustaining grace. R5758:4
Through the rivers -- Illustrated by Israel's crossing
Jordan into Canaan. R3084:2
Overflow thee -- As Israel, in passing through the Red Sea
and Jordan, had nothing to fear; so the Christian has nothing
to fear so long as he realizes the divine presence and
approval. R1408:3, R1857:2
Or, extinguish thee. R4005:4
Through the fire -- Illustrated in the account of the three
Hebrews in the fiery furnace. R1408:2
A furnace of affliction, but the New Creature in Christ shall
not be hurt. R1857:5, R1409:5
Isaiah 43:3
I am the LORD --Jehovah, as in verse 11. R379:2

Thy Saviour -- The Almighty himself is the Savior, the
Author of the great plan of salvation, and the executor of it,
through his willing agents and representatives. E33
Jesus is here called Savior for he shall "save from their sins"
and from the penalty of sin all who shall become "his people."
(Matt. 1:21) SM502:2
Isaiah 43:5
Gather thee -- As certain as this prophecy has been

fulfilled in the preservation of down-trodden Israel in all
lands, so certain will it be fulfilled in their restoration to their
own land. R232:5*
Isaiah 43:7
Called by my name -- Israel means "People of God" and

the name will ultimately apply to all who are his. D654
For my glory -- "For thy pleasure they are and were
created." (Rev. 4:11) Man's true peace can be found only in
harmony with his Creator. R1840:3
Isaiah 43:11
Beside me...no saviour -- Author of the divine plan. E33

From the larger standpoint, God is the originator of the entire
plan of salvation--from start to finish he is thus the Savior.
But he accomplished his salvation through his Son. R3172:3
Isaiah 43:14
The LORD, your redeemer -- Jehovah himself; Jesus

carried out his plan. R4085:3
Isaiah 43:16
A path -- God opened for Israel a path through the Red

Sea. R1951:2
Isaiah 43:17
Lie down together -- In the time of trouble. R2462:5

They shall not rise -- When once the armies of strife and
giant trusts have been overthrown they shall never rise again;
illustrated by the destruction of Pharoah and his army in the
Red Sea. R2338:4, R1951:2
The giant trusts of our day, corresponding to the giants of
Noah's day, falling in the great time of trouble impending,
will never rise again. R2462:5
Does not refer to individuals. R2338:4
Isaiah 43:19
Do a new thing -- Verses 19 to 25 show that the

deliverance from Egypt and the wilderness journey were
foreshadowings of future blessings upon all who shall become
true Israelites. R1951:4
The greater deliverer than Moses is The Christ; the greater
overthrow than that of Pharoah will be that of sin and Satan;
the greater leading and care will be those of the Millennium.
R1951:4
Rivers In the desert -- Just on time we see abundance of
rain, with springs, lakes and wells bursting forth in the deserts
where, for hundreds of years, none have been known.
R1379:3*
While specially referring to Israel and the barren land of
Palestine, the same restitution blessings are also due to the
whole earth. R1380:1
Isaiah 44
Isaiah 44:6
His redeemer -- Israel's Redeemer. R1052:6*

Spoken long before he had sent Jesus to be our Redeemer, so
that God was then the only Redeemer; but still true after Jesus
came, for only God can save, and he does--through the death
of "the Lamb of God." R1052:6*
The first, and I am the last -- God is the only one that
should be recognized. Q361:1; CR276:5
Isaiah 44:27
Dry up thy rivers -- In Revelation, the Prince of the Kings

of the earth is shown as drying up the symbolic Euphrates--the
wealth and resources of mystic Babylon. R2498:5,
R509:6; B209
Isaiah 44:28
That sayeth of Cyrus -- Meaning "Sun," typifying the

"Sun of Righteousness. (Mal. 4:2) R2498:4; HG521:1
Type of Christ. R2498:4, R4699:5
It is a wonderful thing that Cyrus was named by the prophet
Isaiah in advance, and called "God's Shepherd." R4893:1,
R1483:3, R3642:2
It is likely that, as Daniel was speedily made a high officer, he
had access to King Cyrus, and probably called his attention to
the scriptural predictions which marked him as the divine
agent, even by name. R2509:3
Tradition says that this prophecy was read to Cyrus and
resulted in his proclamation permitting the Jews to return to
their own land. R3642:3
Profane history calls him "gracious, clement and just, treating
men as men and not as mere tools to be cast aside--a
conqueror of quite a different type than any the world had
previously seen." Plutarch declares that "In wisdom, virtue
and magnanimity he seems to have surpassed all kings."
R4893:1
Saying to Jerusalem -- As the typical Cyrus encouraged
the typical Jews to return from Babylon, so the antitypical,
our present Lord, will see to the drying up of the Euphrates
and Israel's opportunity and encouragement to return to the
land of Abraham. R4699:5
Isaiah 45
Isaiah 45:1
To his anointed -- Typically. R4699:5

Every business enterprise employs various classes of workers.
The firm may not approve of all their moral qualities--some
are of good moral character and some of poor character, but
the most responsible positions are given to those of
recognized good character. R5385:3
In no degree interfering with the moral sense of Cyrus or
Israel but taking advantage of the aims and desires of carnal
men, their courses, not their motives, to accomplish his plans.
R1272:1, R1780:4
To Cyrus -- The Median General. type of Christ. R509:6,
R2498:4, R4699:5
Typical of Christ, the Prince of the Kings of the East, who, in
Revelation is shown drying up the symbolic Euphrates,
destroy symbolic Babylon and delivering spiritual Israel.
HG521:2
I have holden -- God prospered the way of the noble and
benevolent Cyrus to the seat of power. R1780:4
Subdue nations -- Overthrow literal Babylon, type of
mystic Babylon. R2498:3, R509:6
The two leaved gates -- Enormous gates of brass spanning
the River Euphrates which flowed through Babylon. R2498:2
Shall not be shut -- Cyrus dried up the old channel by
digging another, and then passed under the brass gates.
R2498:3, R509:6; D24
Isaiah 45:3
That thou mayest know -- Rather, God would have Cyrus

know that his accession to power was not accidental, but by
divine arrangement, for the purpose of returning the Israelites.
God would have Cyrus recognize him as supervisor of his
people's affairs. R1351:1*
By the calamities (evils) inflicted upon them and the
overthrow of their man--made gods, to whom they would
vainly appeal for deliverance--that there was no God beside
the God of Israel. R1351:1*
Isaiah 45:4
Jacob my servant's sake -- As Cyrus made the

proclamation which permitted literal Israel to return from
captivity, so the King of kings, upon taking his great power
as earth's new King, will set free all the Lord's people.
HG521:3
Israel mine elect -- The fact that we may see in this
statement a certain typical application to Christ and the
deliverance of nominal spiritual Israel from mystic Babylon
does not interfere with the fact that typical Israel is here
spoken of as "elect." F176
"You only have I known of all the families of the earth."
(Amos 3:2) F176
Isaiah 45:5
I girded thee -- A stronger hand guides them. R1089:6*
Isaiah 45:7
Create darkness -- Darkness may be said to be created by

the withdrawing of light. R1351:1*
Create -- To prepare or arrange, taking cognizance of, and
permitting calamities, etc. R849:1
Evil may be said to be created by the withdrawal of the
restraint and protection that affords peace. R1351:1*
Showing divine control of every trouble or evil. R871:5
Is God responsible for evil? Yes, in that it comes by
permission and arrangement as the proper punishment for
violating his laws. No, in that man is the author of his own
suffering by his violations of those laws. R871:6
No matter what accidental evils might happen to other
nations, no accident could occur to Israel. God would carry
out his part of the covenant--every blessing and every evil,
just as he had promised. R1226:4, R1887:2, R2029:2
Evil -- In this text the word "evil" stands in opposition to
the word "peace" and hence carries the thought of trouble,
war, or some similar evil opposed to peace. R1271:5,
R1780:2
Sin is always an evil, but evil is not always a sin. A125;
R1226:2
God is not the author and instigator of sin. A124; R848:3,
R1800:4
Because Israel was inclined to view their calamities as
accidents, and not as chastisements, God here sends word
reminding them of their covenant, and that their calamities
were from him and by his will for their correction. A125
Calamities upon the Jewish nation as chastisements for
wrongdoing. R1271:5, R1780:2; A124; Q773:4
Two things must be borne in mind--the proper significance of
the word "evil" and the special covenant relationship between
God and Israel. R1271:4, R1780:1
"Anything that directly or remotely causes suffering."
(Webster) R1271:4, R1780:1
The Hebrew word "ra" is translated 32 different ways in our
common version. It might be used in referring to any thing
not good. Physical evil (calamity) is the only permissible
meaning in this context. R1800:2, R871:5
Not sin, but calamity. R1351:2*
All evil, directly or indirectly of God, is both punitory and
reformatory. R872:1
Speaking of the evil which came upon Babylon at the hand of
Cyrus, who was God's messenger to punish Babylon and
restore Israel. R871:5
Isaiah 45:11
His Maker -- Man's Maker. A190; R612:5

Ask me -- None have the right to dictate to God. A191;
R612:5
Command ye me -- Or, assert that he must carry out our
ideas? A191
Isaiah 45:13
Raised him up -- Cyrus was God's messenger to punish

Babylon and restore Israel. R871:5
Build my city -- Ir, a walled place; here, the court walls of
the Temple. The city walls themselves were not built until
the 20th year of Artaxerxes. (Neh. 2:3-8) B67
Isaiah 45:15
God that hidest thyself -- He can be seen only by those

whose eyes of understanding have been opened. R5210:5;
SM472:T
Isaiah 45:17
World without end -- "The world to come" (Heb. 2:5);

"wherein dwelleth righteousness" (2 Pet. 3:13); the New Age.
A67, E402
Isaiah 45:18
Not in vain -- Not to be burned up as some ignorantly

think. R1052:6*
To be inhabited -- He created various orders of creatures
adapted to the earthly home, of which man was the chief--lord,
ruler, king. R470:3
By restored, perfect men. Who are we that we should say it is
unjust for God to do as he likes with his own? A191
By a glorious race of perfect beings, to whose wants it will be
perfectly adjusted when both they and it have attained its
ideal perfection, at first illustrated in our progenitor, Adam,
and his specially prepared Eden home. R1117:1*
Not to be destroyed by fire. R470:3; SM791:1; PD91/105;
HG398:4
The whole earth is eventually to be made like Paradise.
CR292:1; PD91/105
The world has never yet been fully inhabited. R5364:4;
PD18/26
Necessary resources will suffice, for the process of change is
always in a circle and mankind will merely need to follow the
circle to its initial starting point and repeat the process
throughout eternity. Q772:2
Year by year we see the earth preparing for full inhabitation.
Through climatic changes the earth is gradually changing.
Gradually will the curse be removed and the blessings of God
be substituted. PD91/105
As opposed to scientific theories of the solar system running
down, the earth becoming cold and lifeless, the earth
dropping into the sun or colliding with a comet or other
planet. Q771:1
There is sufficient room--Texas has room to bury three times
an exaggerated estimate of all humanity, and they could all
stand in an area less than the size of New York or
Philadelphia. A161
"And every creature on earth heard I saying, Blessing and
honor and glory and power be unto him that sitteth upon the
throne." (Rev. 5:13) F52
Other planets were not made in vain either, but may be
inhabited by beings yet to be created in God's image, to whom
this earth's experience with sin will be a perpetual lesson.
F70; E416; Q161:2
There is none else -- None has a right to dictate to him.
R612:5
Isaiah 45:20
A god -- El, strong, powerful, mighty one. R296:2
Isaiah 45:21
None beside me -- Yet God hath exalted Jesus and given

him the name at which all shall bow. R52:4*
Isaiah 45:22
Look unto me -- Not to mind cures, hypnotism, Christian

Science, Spiritism, Occultism, etc. SM329:T
Isaiah 45:23
That unto me -- The whole world shall be brought back to

allegiance to the Heavenly Father. SM16:2
Every knee -- Not only the living nations, but also all
those who have gone down into death. R2972:4
Shall bow -- By acknowledging Christ and the Church the
world will be bowing to Jehovah. OV351:4
All who are willing to come into harmony with God will have
bowed the knee. R5303:1
Every tongue -- Including the repentant fallen angels.
R1679:6; HG729:5
Swear -- Confess. Those who refuse shall die the Second
Death. R5098:1; SM16:2; HG647:4
Bowing to Jehovah's Anointed and confessing him as their
Lord and Ruler. HG729:5
There is no more reason why a sinner could not be forgiven in
the future than that a sinner could not be forgiven in the
present. HG647:2
Isaiah 46
Isaiah 46:10
End from the beginning -- God permitted men to do

wrong, which he foreknew. R5211:1
Counsel shall stand -- The Lord and his apostles had
abiding peace because they believed that what God had
promised he was able to perform, that his righteous and
benevolent plan could know no failure. R1834:6
And I will -- "God will have all men to be saved and to
come unto the knowledge of the truth." (1 Tim. 2:4)
R630:5*
Do all my pleasure -- God's original plan is still in
progress. A66; HG537:3
Isaiah 47
Isaiah 47:1
O virgin -- Said in derision of her claim to purity. D42

Daughter of Babylon -- The ecclesiastical powers of
Christendom. D42
Isaiah 47:8
Not sit as a widow -- "I sit a queen, and am no widow, and

shall see no sorrow." (Rev. 18:7) D43
Isaiah 47:9
And widowhood -- "Therefore shall her plagues come in

one day; death and mourning and famine; and she shall be
utterly burned with fire." (Rev. 18:8) D43
In their perfection -- In full measure. D43
For the multitude -- Despite the multitude. D43
For the great -- Despite the great. D43
Isaiah 47:10
Thy wickedness -- With the word "evil" in verse 11,

illustrating the two kinds of evil-sin and calamity-in the same
connection and in contrast. R1226:2
Thy wisdom -- Thy worldly wisdom. D43
Isaiah 47:11
Evil come upon thee -- Calamity. R1226:2

Thou shalt not know -- Thou shalt not previously know.
D43
Isaiah 47:13
Prognosticators -- False prophets. Q776:2
Isaiah 47:14
The fire -- The time of trouble. Q776:2

To warm at -- No source of comfort for the false prophets
or prognosticators of verse 13. Q776:2
Isaiah 47:15
To his quarter -- His own interest, own denomination.

R4324:4
Isaiah 48
Isaiah 48:8
Transgressor from the womb -- The children of Adam are

not in God's image, but love sin. R5286:5
Isaiah 48:10
Furnace -- Figurative and symbolic of affliction, fiery

trials, by which we are relined. R2971:2
Isaiah 48:11
Not give my glory -- Neither to Jews nor Gentiles, but

keeps it for himself. R2126:4
Isaiah 48:12
Hearken unto me -- Beginning a new subject from that of

verses 9 to 11. R2126:4
Isaiah 48:20
Go ye forth -- The "wheat" will first all be separated from

the "tares." R2538:1
Of Babylon -- A reference to the restoration of the Jews
from literal Babylon. R3643:1, R4893:4
The Lord now calls his people forth from mystic Babylon.
R3643:4, R2538:1
Voice of singing -- A writer describes it thus: "Forth from
the gates of Babylon they rode to the sound of joyous music--a
band of horsemen playing on flutes and tabrets,
accompanied by their own 200 minstrels and 128 singers of
the Temple." (Ezra 2:41-65) R3643:1, R4893:4
Isaiah 48:22
There is no peace -- God is not favorable for peace at the

present time and under present circumstances. SM457:T
There is no peace to any man out of Christ. R1841:1
The wicked are self-seeking and grasping; filled with anger if
they cannot get what they want; with malice if they see
someone enjoying what they cannot have. All these things
indicate a lack of peace. R4818:2
Unto the wicked -- Broadly, the entire human family; only
a comparatively small number have ceased to be wicked.
SM457:1
"The wicked are like the troubled sea" (Isa. 57:20),
continually casting up mire and dirt. R4818:2
Man's true peace can be found only in harmony with his
Creator. R1841:1
Isaiah 49
Isaiah 49:6
It is a light thing -- The raising up of Israel is a "light

thing," only a small part of the entire restitution work.
R542:1*, R353:4*
For a light -- The hope of a resurrection. R751:2*
Not yet dawned, but waiting for the completion of the
resurrection of The Christ. R751:2*
To the Gentiles -- As well as to the Jews. A59
Isaiah 49:7
Whom man despiseth -- "He was despised and rejected of

men." (Isa. 53:3) E156
Isaiah 49:8
An acceptable time -- Throughout the Gospel age.

R858:6
Interpreted by the Apostle Paul: "Now is the accepted time ...
now is the day of salvation" (See comments on 2 Cor. 6:2).
R5536:5
Have I heard thee -- Christ Jesus and the Church, his
Body. R536:5, R858:3, R4542:2, R5536:5
Day of salvation -- The great salvation to the divine
nature. R4542:2, R859:1
Have I helped thee -- The Body of Christ is helped or
succored in its day of salvation in order that it may be the
instrument of God for the blessing and releasing of those who
are in the prison-house of death. HG337:1
Give thee -- The entire Christ, Head and Body. R4542:2
For a covenant -- As soon as the last member of the
Church shall have died the New (Law) covenant with Israel
will be sealed. R4453:3
By which God will bring the whole world anew into covenant
relationship with himself. R4542:3
All God's people during this Gospel age serve that New
covenant by getting themselves and each other ready for the
future work of glory. R4542:2, R4453:2
Messiah, as a living sacrifice for sinners. R4715:1
Of the people -- The world of mankind, not the Church.
R4542:1
Establish the earth -- Order, or rule, the earth. R536:5
Institute general Times of Restitution of all things. R4542:2
Cause to inherit -- Our Lord has not yet received the
heathen for an inheritance. R4542:1; SM435:2
Isaiah 49:9
Thou -- The Christ, Head and Body. R858:3

To the prisoners -- Death's captives. R4793:2, R536:5,
R858:6; SM30:1; A112
To all the world, locked up in the prison-house of death.
SM30:1; R4793:2
Go forth -- The great prison-house will give up the
prisoners; He who died on Calvary obtained the key of hades.
OV363:5; Q329:3
"The dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God ... and shall
come forth." (John 5:25,2 9) R4793:2
That -- The Church class is chosen for the special work of
accomplishing the salvation of the world in the next age--that
will also be a day of salvation, for all the world. R859:2
In darkness -- In the tomb. R858:6; SM31:T
Shew yourselves -- A pictorial way of stating the
resurrection of the dead. HG137:1
Their coming forth will be that they may manifest their real
sentiments, either for righteousness or for unrighteousness.
SM31:T
Come to the light, the truth. R536:5
Isaiah 49:15
Can a woman forget -- From the standpoint of the divine

nature, know that parental affection will have its widest scope
as well as its greatest power to bless. R1211:5*
Sooner can a woman forget her infant child. R957:5
Will I not forget thee -- Zion, the Church. R957:4
An assurance of tenderest love on the part of our Heavenly
Father. R957:1
Service to the saints in any way the Lord will not forget.
R957:4
Isaiah 49:16
Palms of my hands -- "Before the throne my surety stands;

My name is written on his hands." R1829:5
Isaiah 49:26
And thy Redeemer -- Jehovah is the center of the entire

plan of salvation, and of its every feature. F397
Isaiah 50
Isaiah 50:4

Hath given me -- Christ. E51
Jesus, the great teacher appointed by the master teacher,
Jehovah, is himself taught of Jehovah. E51
Of the learned -- Instructed. E51
Isaiah 50:5

Turned away back -- From his teachings. E52
Isaiah 50:7
GOD will help me -- On the assurances of the Lord we

may rest. R5432:2
Set...like a flint -- To do God's will, describing loyalty to
God and his truth. R4670:5*
Isaiah 51
Isaiah 51:3
Her wilderness -- The true Church is the Church in the

wilderness. R1841:6
Her desert -- Applied to the renewed fruitfulness of
Palestine. R1044:1, R1379:6
Garden of the LORD -- No longer will thorns and thistles
cause sweat of face, but the earth shall yield her increase.
R5078:4
Isaiah 51:5
On mine arm -- The Lord Jesus. E47
Isaiah 51:9
Arm of the LORD -- Christ Jesus. E47
Isaiah 51:11
Redeemed of the LORD -- All who will accept the gift of

life upon the conditions of its offer. R1772:6
Mourning shall flee -- There will be no more sin, sorrow,
pain, sighing, crying or dying. R5250:5
Isaiah 51:12
Afraid of a man -- "The fear of men which bringeth a

snare." (Prov. 29:25) R1788:5
Rather be fearful of anything that would separate you from
God and a future life. R5390:3
Isaiah 51:16
Plant the heavens -- Establish the new heavens or powers

of spiritual control. R1788:4; A318
Of the earth -- The new earth, or social order. R1788:4;
A318
Zion -- The tried and proved, heirs of the New Kingdom.
R1788:4
Isaiah 51:17
Drunken -- Intoxication of error, false doctrines and

theories. R4287:3
Isaiah 52
Isaiah 52:1
Awake, awake -- Describing the resurrection awakening of

Zion in the Harvest time. R3596:3
He who sleeps now neglects his duty to his brethren and puts
himself in jeopardy. R2463:5
O Zion -- The spiritual phase of the Kingdom of God, the
Church. R3596:3; A297, T33
Isaiah 52:3
Shall be redeemed -- Gaal, set free by payment of a price.

E438
Isaiah 52:6
Know my name -- Understand and appreciate my true

character. R3589:3
In that day -- In the Harvest of the Gospel age. R3589:3
Isaiah 52:7
How beautiful -- How beautiful are those proclaiming

good tidings of good things. HG307:1
Those who bear the truth have a special force and influence at
the present time. R5259:2
The "feet" members of the Body of Christ reflect a measure of
transcendent glory, their faces shining with heavenly joy.
C301
Upon the mountains -- Kingdoms. A341; C236
The feet members go heralding to every nation (mountain) the
good tidings of Immanuel's reign begun. C301
Are the feet -- The last members of the Body of Christ.
A341; B253; C236, C301; R287:2, R757:2, R3298:4,
R5257:6
While there has been a hand and foot class all along, in every
age of the Church, yet of the Church as a whole, the last
members are the feet. R514:6, R2827:2, R3298:4, R5257:6
While Jesus and the dead saints are shown as in the heavenly
condition, the living saints who are not yet changed, are used
as his mouthpiece. R328:4*, R514:6
Who sing the restitution song of Moses and the Lamb.
R498:1
The beauty and honor connected with their proclamation does
not appear to the world. R757:3, R287:3
The feet are figurative, as also in other Biblical passages.
"His feet shall stand in that day upon the Mount of Olives."
(Zech. 14:4) B157
"The dead who die." (Rev. 14:13) C241
These same feet, as representatives on earth of the entire
Body, are to pour out the seven vials of Rev. 16. R498:1
All who are of the "feet" shall be thus engaged. C237
Of him -- Christ in the flesh, the Elijah. A341; B253;
C236, C301
Good tidings -- The sweetest notes of the glad tidings of
restitution are reserved until now during the sounding of the
seventh trumpet. R757:2, R287:2, R328:4*
Not inflaming either real or fancied wounds, thus doing injury
to those we should be helping and blessing, spreading their
discontent, and hence their trouble. A341
Publisheth peace -- Millennial joy and peace. C302
By preaching the good tidings of the ransom for all and its
consequent blessings, we shall be true heralds of the
Kingdom; ambassadors of peace. A341
Publisheth salvation -- A ransom for all and consequent
blessings for all; deliverance. A341; C236
That saith unto Zion -- The message is going forth,
"Behold the Bridegroom," (Matt. 25:6) and further
announcement to Zion, "Thy God reigneth. R2645:3
The glorified saints beyond the veil are active participants in
the work assigned members of the same Kingdom class this
side the veil. D624
As in the Jewish Harvest, the Lord's instructions confined the
special work to Israel, so here the special work of his
messengers is confined to the household of faith--spiritual
Israel. R1742:3
Thy God reigneth -- The reign of Christ, which shall bring
deliverance, is begun. B142; D624; C236; R1379:5,
R2201:3
The oft-repeated prayer of the Church has been answered; the
Kingdom of God has indeed come. C301
The Lord is present, the Kingdom is being set up. R514:6;
D624; C301, C236
Now the rule and government has been assumed by "Him
whose right it is." (Ezek. 21:27) He has taken to himself his
great power and his reign is commenced. R287:5, R757:5
The time for the Kingdom reign is practically here, the time
for this message of God is at hand. The Kingdom of God is
in process of erection and the gathering of the saints in
process of completion. With the completion of this class will
come the inauguration of the Kingdom. R5259:4
That the Millennial Kingdom is already beginning its rule.
R1379:5, R2201:3
The new regime is only opening. After our Lord shall have
delivered and glorified the Church, then he will begin the
work with the world. But, since 1878, we are making this
proclamation. R5258:1, R287;4, R328:4*, R757:3
As there was a proclamation of Jesus in the flesh as King, so
there must be correspondingly a proclamation of Jesus, the
New Creature, as King of Glory. R2645:3
This declaration is due now before the feet are joined to the
same Body. R757:5, R287:5
The present Harvest Message. R2645:3
Only the feet have been privileged to utter the whole message,
including "the Day of Vengeance of our God." (Isa. 61:2)
R757:3, R287:3
Isaiah 52:8
Thy watchmen -- In the Harvest of the Gospel age.

R3596:3
See eye to eye -- Clearly, as one man, harmoniously
singing the new song of Moses and the Lamb. C237
Only if the divine mind and will were the only one alive.
R309:2*
"They shall be all taught of God." (John 6:45) R3856:5
It is proper that we should wish that all might see eye to eye,
but it is not reasonable to expect it when we know that all are
fallen from perfection. F326
More and more. R3856:5
Not until the Bride is complete and Zion is brought back.
R67:5*, R56:3*, R5359:1
Only the watchmen of Zion shall see eye to eye until "that
which is perfect is come." (1 Cor. 13:10) R344:2
Regarding things to put off, and things to put on, as we get
further and further into this Day of the Lord. R5770:2
In due time we shall be able to see and teach the same thing.
CR250:4
Bring again Zion -- Return favor to the Jewish people.
R309:2*
When Israel rises, Babylon must fall. R115:5*
Isaiah 52:9
Waste places -- Now becoming fruitful. R1044:2

Of Jerusalem -- Earthly phase of the Kingdom of God.
A297
His people -- Natural Israel. R3589:3
Isaiah 52:10
The LORD hath -- At the setting up of his Kingdom. E47

Made bare -- Made bare and extended to help. R21:2*
His holy arm -- The Lord Jesus. E47; R4792:6
Of all the nations -- The time is near when the message
shall be preached to every creature. It is even now being
fulfilled. R5259:4
The ends of the earth -- To the Jew first, but also to the
Gentiles. R3010:2
Salvation of our God -- God's original plan cannot fail in
any particular. R99:1
Isaiah 52:11
Go ye out -- Full, complete separation was not enjoined

until the Harvest time. C187
The Lord now commands the "wheat" to be separated from
the "tares." R2538:1
"Come out of her, my people." (Rev. 18:4) B240; R3596:3
Standing with God even if that should seem to imply standing
alone. R1383:3
"Gather the wheat into my barn." (Matt. 13:30)
"Gather the good into vessels." (Matt. 13:48) R3589:6
Be ye clean -- The Royal Priesthood. B240
From wrong practices and from false doctrines. C187
Justified in God's sight, pure and sanctified of heart.
R5258:3, R5860:5
King Hezekiah directed that the priests and the Levites
sanctify themselves afresh to the Lord and his service before
the cleansing of the Court of the Temple began. R4812:3
As the typical priests and Levites were instructed to wash and
keep themselves continually clean, so the spiritual priests
should be pure in word, action and thought. R5860:5
In proportion as their hearts are clean, their spiritual vision is
clear. R5259:5
No one is properly ready to render service to God in any form
until he himself has come to a sanctified condition of heart in
relationship to the Lord. R4812:4
Vessels of the LORD -- The Lord's truths or doctrines.
C187
In the Tabernacle and Temple, those vessels which were
connected with the holy services--in the Court, Holy and
Most Holy. These were only handled by the consecrated
class--the priests. R5258:2
Isaiah 52:13
Behold, my servant -- Christ. R3589:6

Shall -- In the Millennial age. R3589:6
Deal prudently -- Prosper. (Lowth translation) R141:1*
Wisely. R4831:3
Extolled -- Lifted up. R4831:3
During his Millennial reign. R3596:3
Be very high -- Jehovah's promise to Jesus of the divine
nature. R5066:1
Isaiah 52:14
As many -- Of the Jews living a the first advent. E159

Were astonied -- Surprised that he would submit to such
abuse. E159
The world will be astonished when they see the reality of the
Kingdom, more majestically grand than anything dreamed of.
R4831:3
At thee -- At the time of his crucifixion. R3590:1
His visage was so marred -- "Deeply marred was his
appearance, out of all human likeness, and his form out of all
semblance to sons of men." (Cheyne's translation) R3590:1
"So shall his visage be inglorious among men." (Douay
translation) R574:1
His features drawn with pain. R3590:1
Might refer to the marring of his beauty with the thorns, nails
and sorrows. R574:1
Might refer to his character deficient in those qualities the
world esteems in their depraved sight. R574:1; E159
Whatever of care, sorrow or pain marked that perfect lovely
face was the self-imposed weight of our infirmities and sin.
R575:1
More than any man -- By man. E159
More than the -- By the. E159
Isaiah 52:15
So -- Showing a contrast--his glory, honor, influence and

power will be proportionate to the sufferings and ignominy
which he experienced, not only as respects our Redeemer, but
also as respects his Church. "If we suffer with him we shall
also reign with him." (2 Tim. 2:12) R3590:1
Shall he sprinkle -- Startle; surprised at his patient
submission to abuse. R4831:3; E159
"Deep will be the obeisance of many." (Cheyne's translation)
R3590:1
Many nations -- Others of all nations, now and in the
future, have wondered and will wonder at such patience and
meekness. E159
At him -- To him. R4831:3
Had not been told them -- Of others. E159
Some have told them that Messiah's reign was during the
Dark Ages; others that it is now in progress; still others that it
is an Evolutionary matter through moral reforms. R4831:3
Shall they see -- Exemplified in him. E159
Consider -- Understand. R4831:3
Isaiah 53:1
Who hath believed -- Only a very few. R1359:1,

R3590:3, R516:6*, R2414:3; CR155:1; E489
The complaint of the primitive evangelists. R141:1* Israel's
failure to hear the divine message. OV75:5
"To us who believe he is precious." (1 Pet. 2:7) R2789:2
The reason for the general rejection of the message is that
reconciliation with God means opposition to sin. E489
Our report -- Our teaching, our presentation, our message
of reconciliation, atonement. E489; R3590:3; CR154:3,
CR155:3
The message of God in respect to his great plan, the Gospel.
CR155:1
That God is willing to forgive our sins, receive us as his
children, and fit us for the heavenly Kingdom. CR155:3
And to whom -- Over whom. (Leeser) R575:5
Few, "as many as the Lord our God calls." (Acts 2:39) E489;
R1359:2, R3590:3
The arm of the LORD -- Christ, the power of God unto
salvation. E47, E418, E489; R1359:2, R4792:6; CR154:6
Showing the headship of Jehovah. R765:2*, R1075:3
Stretched down for the relief of Adam and his race from sin
and death. E418, R4831:5, R516:6*
Not merely a finger, doing a small work for a small class; but
the all-powerful arm which will overthrow evil, establish
righteousness and bless all the families of the earth. R3590:4
Revealed -- "Who perceives what the arm of Jehovah is
preparing?" (Rosenmuller translation) R141:1*
In the Gospel. CR154:6
In the present time. R3590:3
Isaiah 53
Isaiah 53:2
For he shall -- Few believe the report because at the first

advent our Lord did not appear as a glorious and powerful
king. R3590:4, R574:3
Before him -- Jehovah. R1359:2
As a tender plant -- Small shoot. E156
To the natural man seeming too tender ever to prosper.
R3590:4
As a root -- Lifegiver. E144
Dry ground -- The Davidic line having apparently lost its
virility, its life. R3590:4
Thirsty ground. His appearance and surrounding seemed
unfavorable; he was an unlikely king. R574:3
All humanity was reckoned dead. Like a new, fresh, living
root out of the barren soil, he grew up from infancy to
manhood. R1359:2
Form nor comeliness -- Of the kind worldly men admire.
E156; R2293:6
Honor. E156
To blind bigots he lacked good looks, but to those whose eyes
are opened he becomes " chiefest among ten thousand" and
"altogether lovely." (Song of Sol. 5:10, 16) R1063:2*
When we shall see him -- When we observe him. E156
There is no beauty -- No appearance of hauteur and
ambition. E157; R574:3
That we -- Jews, especially leaders and prominent ones.
E157
Should desire him -- Should desire in him. E156
Not having found in him the qualities of an earthly conqueror.
E157; R574:3, R1359:3, R4831:6, R2293:6
He is not our ideal of the soldier, statesman and king,
befitting our nation's needs and likely to fulfil its long-cherished
hopes. E158
Isaiah 53:3
He is despised -- Was counted by the Romans as unworthy

of notice. R3590:5
The apostles were similarly evil-treated because of their
faithfulness--their refusal to compromise the message, "the
word of reconciliation." E490
"As he was, so are we in this world." (1 John 4:17) R3776:5
One of the many prophecies attesting that the Bible is a divine
revelation. A57
Rejected of men -- Shunned. R574:3
Because the Jews failed to see the sufferings of Christ.
R59:3*
Because the prophecies of Christ's glory and Kingdom were
not then fulfilled. R59:3*
By his own nation who for sixteen centuries had hoped and
waited for his coming; by the Romans, counting him
unworthy of particular notice. R3590:5
Denounced as an imposter. HG512:5
Not because he deserved such; but because they were so
degraded and blinded by sin. R2789:2
The Jews esteemed him not, except for a few. R3590:5
They were looking for a king who, with military skill, would
deliver them from the Roman yoke. R1359:3
Following the circumstances as though we were present we
perceive that it was difficult for the chief actors surrounding
our Lord to realize the true situation. Similarly we are
sometimes too close to great events to appreciate their true
import. Thus we should have sympathy with those who
rejected Jesus. R3887:3
It should be expected that all through the Gospel age his
followers would be similarly misrepresented, slandered,
maligned, despised and rejected by the religionists of
A man of sorrows -- Deep and abounding sympathy for
others. R3734:3
Makaboth, pains. R2767:2*
With grief -- Choli, sickness, weakness, disease.
R2767:2*
Acquainted with infirmity. Jesus had an abundance of
sympathy; each time he healed he was touched with a feeling
of their infirmity while they were refreshed and revitalized by
his strength. R574:4
We hid...our faces -- Ashamed of him. R3590:5,
R3776:6, R5495:1
"As one hiding the face from us (as in weeping)." (Young's
translation) R574:3, R141:2
Were ashamed of, and would not acknowledge him. B188
"He hid as it were his face from them." (Margin) Because of
their unbelief they lost the benefit of his wisdom, teaching
and mighty works. R1359:3
"Like one who hideth his face from us" (to bury his griefs in
seclusion). (Pye Smith translation) R141:2*
Esteemed him not -- Considered him a fanatic because of
his loyalty to truth and righteousness. R3776:6
His weariness, sorrow, weeping, etc., were construed by men
to result from weakness. R574:3
"Gave him no attention." (Pye Smith translation) R141:2*
Hence it was decided that they could not be of the Bride
class, and as a nation the Jews were cast off until the elect
should be found. R3776:6
Isaiah 53:4
Borne our griefs -- "Himself took our infirmities and bare

our sicknesses." (Matt. 8:17) A230; E124; R4138:2,
R2028:5, R2000:2, R105:1
Voluntarily. R105:1, R1359:3
"But only our diseases did he bear himself." (Leeser) R575:5
He was a man, of the human nature, but not a sharer of our
imperfection, except as, during his ministry, he voluntarily
took our sickness. R809:2
Being without sin, he was also without sickness and pain
except as he "bore" it for others that he might be touched with
a feeling of our infirmities and, thus, a sympathetic High
Priest. R2028:6
Our Lord was not sick with ordinary maladies. His perfect
organism was proof against the intrusion of special diseases.
Rather, the healing of diseases exhausted his vitality, leaving
upon him the weight of our sicknesses. R4138:3, R5577:2,
R2000:1
Carried our sorrows -- "There went virtue (vitality) out of
him and healed them all." (Luke 6:19) A230; E124;
R4138:2, R2000:2, R105:1, R1359:3
Our Lord's healing miracles are much more precious to us
knowing that they cost him so much. E124; R4138:2
The sicknesses which our Lord bore were those of the world,
and not those of his special friends and disciples. We have no
record that he healed any of his followers. R4138:3
We did esteem him -- Speaking for fleshly Israel at the
first advent. E124
Not that he was actually smitten of God. R424:4*
What thus seems, or appears, is not the fact--it was for our
sins, not his own sins, that he suffered. E123
This was probably one of the severest of our Lord's trials--to
be esteemed as an offender against God and under divine
wrath. R1816:1
Smitten of God -- They thought him righteously punished.
R574:5
Men did not realize the real cause of his physical weakness.
R1359:4
Isaiah 53:5
He was wounded -- Death in any form would have met the

requirements of justice. It was not necessary for the ransom
that the Lord's person should be wounded. This was for other
considerations. E443
Not made to suffer eternal torment-thus proving that the
wages of our sin is not torment. HG608:6
For our transgressions -- And not for his own. R1394:5,
R47:2*
The chastisement -- As a true Son, he had his share:
"What son is he whom the Father chasteneth not?" (Heb.
12:7) R3133:1
Necessary to preparation for glory, honor and immortality:
"He learned obedience by the things which he suffered."
(Heb. 5:8) R3133:1
Of our peace -- By means of which our peace with God
was made. E124; R141:2*
Upon him -- Noting the laying of the sin upon a person
instead of a dumb animal. A57
With his stripes -- By the things which he suffered in our
stead. E442
He bore the death sentence against us. R3590:6, R3560:6
It was necessary that upon Jesus should fall the rod of
affliction, even unto death. R5315:3, R3560:6, R3590:6
We are healed -- Healed as sinners preceding our
acceptance as members of the Body of Christ. F632
We are to be healed; through his death our reconciliation was
made possible. R4364:5
Isaiah 53:6
All we like sheep -- Israelites, "lost sheep" (Matt 10:6)

because they had wandered from the Lord and from their
covenant. R2261:3
"I lay down my life for the sheep." (John 10:15) R652:5
And who, after coming to a knowledge of the truth and being
rescued by the shepherd, follow him not, will no longer be
counted as the Lord's sheep. R1217:1
Have gone astray -- Followed one another into wrong
paths. R3590:6
"There is none righteous." (Rom. 3:10) R2706:3
The LORD -- Jehovah. R1359:4
Hath laid on him -- Jesus, our willing substitute.
R1058:2, R574:6
The full penalty of the divine law. R4793:1, R574:6,
R387:1, R657:5, R1058:4, R5315:3.
Our sins have been laid upon, or imputed, to him. If we
believe on him, his righteousness will be imputed to us. Thus
we are justified. R657:5
Thus ransoming, not pardoning, mankind. E461; R324:1,
R1058:4
Therefore God did not pardon us, that is, he did not suffer our
sins "to pass without punishment. R324:1, R387:1, R1058:2
Only by the shedding of blood could there come a remission
of original sin. R3985:3
Thus God could maintain justice and at the same time receive
all sinners who would come to him through the appointed
substitute. R1350:3*
Inconsistent with the theory of eternal torment. A159
The iniquity of us all -- Jesus' death was "the wages of
sin," as all death is, but not the wages of sin which he
committed. R648:3
"The punishment of us all." (Young's translation) R574:6
Isaiah 53:7
He was oppressed -- Verses 7 to 9 portray the matured

view of Jesus' disciples as they began to consider more
carefully and understand more fully their Master and his
work. R4831:6
He was afflicted -- Taunted. (Leeser) R575:6
He is brought -- He was led, not driven, to death. He
willingly permitted the sick and afflicted to partake of his
vitality. R772:5*
As a lamb -- In meekness, unsuspicion and gentleness.
R4750:5
"Behold the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the
world." (John 1:29) R77:6*
To the slaughter -- A test to prove his character,
manifesting to men and angels his obedience and worthiness
of high exaltation. Q559:2
As a sheep -- A ewe. (Leeser) R575:6
Openeth not his mouth -- In any plea or endeavor to
deliver himself from death. R3591:1, R574:6, R3776:2,
R5642:5, R5871:6, R5561:5, R1806:6
Why? Because he desired to save others and knew that the
salvation of others required the sacrifice of himself. R1815:6
Had he done so his accusers might have succumbed to the
eloquence of him who spake as never man spake. R3591:1,
R5561:5
To follow in his footsteps is to sacrifice ourselves as he did,
with the same uncomplaining cheerful submission. R772:5*
Isaiah 53:8
He was taken -- Taken away, cut off from life. R3591:2

"By an oppressive judgment he was taken away--the men of
his age who shall describe?" (Brown's translation) R141:4*
From prison -- By oppression, by false accusations.
R3591:2, R1359:5
And from judgment -- By oppression or injustice as far as
those who condemned him were concerned; by divine justice
and judgment so far as God was concerned, because he had
consecrated himself unto death. R3591:2
Through judicial proceedings, by means of false
condemnations which secured a legal condemnation unto
death. R1359:5
"Through judicial punishment." (Leeser) R575:6
Declare his generation -- Who could suppose that he
would have offspring, would be the Everlasting Father to the
whole world. R3591:2, R4832:1
Declare to his generation why he was cut off. R574:6
May be understood in three ways: (1) those of his day; (2) his
divine lineage and (3) his posterity. R1359:6
For the transgression -- His death was so ignominious,
few could realize that he was suffering the just for the unjust.
R574:6
Of my people -- "For the sins of the whole world." (1 John
2:2) R3591:3
Stricken -- Smitten. R574:6
"The plague was laid on him." (Leeser) R575:6
Isaiah 53:9
Made his grave -- Qebar, tomb, place of interment. E348

With the wicked -- Being crucified between two thieves.
R3591:3
Rasha, the condemned or guilty race. R1360:1, R1394:4,
R3591:3, R574:6
And with the rich -- In the tomb of Joseph of Arimathea.
R1360:1, R1394:4, R3591:3, R574:6, R141:5*
The godless rich. R575:6, R652:4
Because -- Or, although. R574:6
Done no violence -- There was no just cause of his death.
A58
Isaiah 53:10
It pleased the LORD -- Verses 10 and 11 give the

prophetic explanation of the experiences of Jesus. R4832:4
Not that the Father took pleasure in the sufferings of his Son,
but because he saw the glorious results, both to Jesus and to
mankind. R3591:4, R4618:3, R5878:6; CR348:5; Q559:2
The Heavenly Father had to do with the breaking of our
Lord's body. R5341:5
The bruising, we understand, was not of divine necessity, but
of divine wisdom and expediency. Q559:3
Because it best illustrates his justice, wisdom, love and
power. R5878:6
To bruise him -- To allow him to have an experience with
pain and sorrow. R2000:1
To permit him to demonstrate his loyalty and faith even unto
death so that he might the more abundantly reward him.
R3591:3, R5878:6
"Crush him through disease." (Leeser) R575:6, R652:4
"For Jehovah is pleased to crush him with sufferings." (Pye
Smith translation) R141:5*
As Jesus broke the loaf at the Last Supper, the Heavenly
Father had to do with the breaking of our Lord's body.
R5341:5*
When thou -- Because Jesus gave his life, his soul, in
exchange for Adam's life, or soul, the restoration for the
world is indicated as being the direct work of our Lord Jesus,
and not the Father's work, though he was the author of the
entire plan of salvation. SM781:1
Shalt make his soul -- Human soul, human being. R667:3,
R981:1
Being, existence, all that he had. E127; T52, R667:3,
R2000:1
A human soul--for he had exchanged his spiritual being, or
existence, for the human, which was typified by the
Atonement Day bullock. T52
The death of the soul is the penalty for sin. E328; R2611:4,
R2794:5, R5238:2; SM779:1; OV166:2; HG135:4,
HG334:5, HG331:4; CR209:1*
The penalty was not against Adam's body, but against Adam
himself, the soul, the ego, the being. It required the sacrifice
of another soul to redeem him. R3174:2, R3854:5, R5238:2
"The Good Shepherd giveth his life." (John 10:11) E337
An offering for sin -- For our sins, not for his own. E23;
R4793:1
"When his soul hath brought the trespass offering." (Leeser)
R575:6, R652:4
Thereby causing the typical sacrifices and ablations to cease.
(Dan. 9:27) B65
Our Lord Jesus did not suffer an eternity of torment as the
price of our redemption. R4793:1, R1086:2, R803:2
His seed -- Progeny. R4832:4, R1360:1
One of the titles of our Lord in the Millennium is "Everlasting
Father." (Isa. 9:6) SM780:2
As many of Adam's seed as will accept adoption upon his
conditions. A129; R4832:4, R3591:4
The Gospel Church is nowhere spoken of as the "seed of
Christ." SM780:1, SM781:1; R1359:5
Prolong his days -- Resurrection to a higher than human
plane being granted him by the Father as a reward for his
obedience. A129
Prolong their days everlastingly. R1360:1
All those who sacrifice with Jesus shall gain immortality.
SM783:2
The pleasure -- Will, plan. R1360:1; SM781:2
Of the LORD -- Of Jehovah. R1360:1
Shall prosper -- When he shall have put all enemies under
his feet. (1 Cor. 15:25) SM785:2
Isaiah 53:11
He shall see -- Shall see the fruits. R1360:1, R785:4,

R5018:2; SM42:1; CR431:5; Q179:5
" (Freed) from the trouble of his soul shall he see (the good)
and be satisfied." (Leeser) R575:6
A glorious fruitage! The exaltation of himself with his Bride
and "the virgins, her companions"; the Ancient Worthies; and,
finally, the groaning creation brought to human perfection.
R5066:6
In the Millennial reign of glory and the end thereof. R4578:4
Of the travail -- The reward of the travail. R5578:6,
R3591:4; SM42:2
His humiliation, suffering and death. SM787:T
"I hid not my face from shame and spitting." (Isa. 50:4-10)
E52
Of his soul -- In the grand restitution of the redeemed race.
R1360:1
Because his soul hath labored. R575:1
Shall be satisfied -- To give his life to purchase the world.
E441
When he has fulfilled the gracious promises of God to bless
the world. OV57:1, OV23:2
With the results. F121
This satisfaction will result from the salvation of more than
the "Little Flock." SM42:2
With the Heavenly Father's bountiful provision for his
personal glory and exaltation, and for the honorable work
which he will do for Adam and his race. SM787:1
Which he would not be if only a few of mankind will
eventually be blessed. R3725:3*
Because the conclusion of God's plan will be satisfactory.
F50
God's original plan cannot fail in any particular. R99:1*;
A66, A95; E34; OV57:1, OV23:2; R1125:2
The Church also shall be more than satisfied with God's
arrangements on their behalf, and through them, on behalf of
the world. SM788:T
By his knowledge -- His full confidence in God born of
experience. A132; R1835:1, R3160:5; HG293:1, HG396:2
Gained through his pre-human existence. E91; R446:1,
R1060:1, R2373:3, R4612:1; Q371:4
At the time of our Lord's spirit-begetting an impression of his
pre-human experience was made upon his brain, and he then
received special knowledge of heavenly things. R5157:5,
R5065:1
Knowing the Father, remembering the glory he had with him
before the world was, trusting him implicitly, enabled him to
be obedient to the death of the cross. R3591:5
Knowing the Father's plan, his own will being in entire
harmony with the Father, he went steadily forward to
accomplish that will, even unto death. R631:6*
Of the divine plan or purpose to redeem and restore the fallen
race, enabling him to carry out that purpose in the sacrifice of
himself, thus justifying many by bearing the penalty.
R1360:4
He grew in knowledge--being led into the knowledge of the
various features of the plan as they became due to be worked
out through his instrumentality. R3160:3
Enabling him to be obedient even unto death. R3591:5,
R4019:1
It was from lack of knowledge of God that the first Adam in
his perfection was weak. R3591:5
Knowledge which Adam did not possess. CR453:3; R146:2
The first Adam, having no knowledge of evil's terrible nature,
was tempted and fell. The second Adam, with a knowledge
of its awful results, and of the power of God, was just as
really tempted, but triumphed. R327:3*, R3638:2*
Justify many -- Very many--all men. R575:1
For he shall -- While he will. (Leeser) R575:6,1
Bear their iniquities -- Which our Lord began to bear at
his consecration, and finished so doing at his crucifixion.
R5065:5
Isaiah 53:12
Therefore -- Because of his faithfulness and sacrifice.

R575:1
"Therefore will I distribute to him the many for his portion;
and the mighty people shall he share for his spoil." (Lowth
translation) R141:5
Will I -- Jehovah. R1360:4
With the great -- Rab, Lord, Chief, Master of the
Universe, Jehovah himself. R1360:4, R3592:1
Divide the spoil -- Of his great conquest over sin and
death, with all its heavenly glories and privileges of blessing
mankind. R3592:1, R1360:4, R4832:4
He shall divide, or distribute, the spoil to mankind. R575:1
With the strong -- The overcoming Church of this Gospel
age. R3592:1, R1360:4, R4832:4
"When I am weak, then am I strong." (2 Cor. 12:10)
R3592:1
"To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my
throne, even as I also overcame and am set down with my
Father in his throne." (Rev. 3:21) R1360:4
"The spoils of the strong"--of the strong prince of this world
who has left mankind destitute. He will be bound and his
spoils distributed to enrich mankind. R575:1
Poured out his soul -- Being, existence. R1451:6,
R1880:5, R2794:5, R5238:2, R5578:6, R5749:2
From Jordan to Calvary. E127
Permitted his life to be taken from him. R5085:3
Not the body, but the being, called in the Scriptures, soul,
dies. R205:4, R277:1, R4174:3, R5749:2
It was Jesus, the human soul, that had died; but he was raised
from the dead a soul of a higher order. R5578:6
It was the soul that needed redemption; it was the soul of our
Lord Jesus that was given as a ransom price for the soul of
Adam with the result that the souls of Adam and his posterity
are guaranteed a resurrection. R2794:3, R1880:5
Contradicts the idea that the Lord himself did not die, that
merely his flesh died. R2794:5
Unto death -- Non-existence, oblivion. E362
He kept on until he had given all that he had. R157:6,
R5432:1
Made "his soul an offering for sin" (verse 10), in offset to
Father Adam's soul. R2794:5; CR170:5
Without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sins.
R3592:4
His soul did die. CR290:3
Our Lord had a perfect earthly life. He gave up that life. The
same with us. If we would live we must die. R5342:1
When our Lord was changed from spirit to human being his
existence did not cease for a moment; but at Calvary his being
or existence was laid down completely, he ceased to exist--gave
his being as "a ransom." R667:3
Numbered -- Reckoned, by crucifixion. R575:1,
R2473:1,5, R2787:4
With the transgressors -- The thieves on the cross.
R2787:4, R1815:6, R3370:4
As the penalty against Adam included his isolation from the
Father as a condemned rebel, so it was necessary for Jesus to
experience the full meaning of a sinner's separation from God.
R2474:4
Crucifixion was practiced by the Romans only upon culprits-usually
outlaws, brigands and seditionists. R2787:4
Being misunderstood when he came to John, whose
immersion was for washing away a sinful past. SM644:T,
R960:4
And he bare -- "While he bore." (Leeser) R575:6
Made intercession -- "For the transgressors he let (evil)
befall him." (Leeser) R575:6, R652:5
Isaiah 54
Isaiah 54:1
Sing, O barren -- Spiritual Zion, our mother or covenant.

C297, R1341:6
The promise to Abraham has been barren for a long time.
R1389:1
The Apostle applies this to the Gospel Church, or Abrahamic
covenant, (Gal 4:27); showing that the ultimate fruitage shall
be great. R3596:3
That didst not bear -- Beginning with the Lord Jesus, a
result followed the coming into covenant relationship which
had never occurred before--a begetting to a new nature.
R4450:2*
For more -- The promise includes not only the
development and blessing of the seed, but also the blessing of
all the families of the earth through that seed. R1389:3
Are the children -- The Christ, typified by Isaac and
Rebecca. C297, R1341:6, R1389:2; Q164:2
Of the desolate -- The Gospel covenant, typified by Sarah.
R1389:1
Than the children -- The Jews, according to the flesh.
Q164:2
Of the married wife -- Hagar, type of the Law covenant;
her offspring, a servant class. R1389:2
Isaiah 54:5
Thine husband -- Caretaker. R1389:1

Illustrating the union between Jehovah and Israel. R1388:6
Thy Redeemer -- Jehovah himself. R4085:3
All that our dear Redeemer has done for us has been the
carrying out of the great plan of Jehovah, purposed in himself
before the foundation of the world. R4085:3
Isaiah 54:11
Lay thy stones -- The Church is pictured as the glorious

New Jerusalem, built of precious stones. R3596:5
Isaiah 54:13
All thy children -- The spiritual sons of God. R3051:1

Taught of the LORD -- Taught of Jehovah. "Learned of
the Father." (John 6:45) E50
Our Lord Jesus is the Great Teacher of men by the
appointment of the Heavenly Father, the great Master Teacher
above all. E50
God, however, does not teach all in the same time and way.
R385:1*
In the school of Christ, learning not all lessons at once, but
gradually, "line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little
and there a little." (Isa. 28:10) R3051:1
Because unprejudiced and anxious for truth. E32
We should avoid following human teachers as leaders. Their
teachings should be received only so far as they harmonize
with the word of truth. R386:4*
Is it not reasonable that God, who is love and a kind and
loving Father, should provide for the education of every
individual who ever came into the world. R33:3*
Shall be the peace -- Of those who understand the Lord's
dealings. R3051:1
Without this peace one cannot have the joy of the Lord; and if
they have not this it is because they have not been sufficiently
taught of the Lord. R3051:3
Of the Millennial day, in which the Prince of Peace reigns.
R2520:6
Isaiah 54:14
In righteousness -- Righteousness, justice, must be the

foundation of every character acceptable to God. R3051:4
Shalt thou -- The godly. R3051:3
Be established -- Those who are not established in
righteousness now will not be accounted worthy to be sharers
in the first resurrection. R3051:3
Far from oppression -- Having no sympathy with it.
R3051:5
Anxious to set men free, not anxious to enslave them.
R3051:5
Shalt not fear -- "Perfect love casteth out fear." (1 John
4:18) The Lord's people should be the most fearless people in
the world as respects earthly calamities. R3051:5
"Their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men." (Isa.
29:13) R3051:5
Not come near thee -- Applies to the present life, and not
to the life of glory. R3051:3
Isaiah 54:15
Gather together -- A general gathering together of

opponents to the truth and its servants. R3051:6
Shall fall -- Come to naught. It is impossible to .injure the
very elect. R3051.
Isaiah 54:17
Against thee -- Against the New Creature. R3050:3

The called, faithful and chosen ones--the Church. R1239:2*
The prince of this world has power to deceive and to lead
astray many--if it were possible he would deceive even the
very elect. The elect are the only class who cannot be
deceived. R1239:2*
May be, to some extent, applicable to regathered and re-favored
Israel after the flesh in the near future, when God will
fulfil to them all his good promises. R3050:3
Shall prosper -- Even though it may affect health, social
position or financial prosperity. R3050:6
The rage of the enemies of truth is impotent except as it
resorts to misrepresentation and sophistry, which the Lord
assures us cannot "deceive the very elect." (Matt. 24:24)
R2738:1
Rise against thee -- In envy, malice, hatred, strife, slander.
R3050:6
This merely injures the old creature--the flesh, already
consecrated unto death. R3051:1
Is of me -- "If God be for us, who can be against us.
(Rom. 8:31) R3052:4
Isaiah 55
Isaiah 55:1
Ho, every one -- The call of the Gospel age, to the

consecrated class now. R4321:3, R2072:4, R1899:2
During the Millennial age. R3597:1
That thirsteth -- Verses 2 and 3 show this call to be for
those thirsting for truth during the Gospel age. R1363:6
"Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after righteousness."
(Matt. 5:6) R1936:1, R1899:2
"After righteousness" (Matt. 5:6); not only after truth with a
curiosity interest, but after that righteousness which comes
through a knowledge of the truth. R1936:1
Water is unwelcome except to the thirsty, and food produces
loathing if forced upon one who is not hungry; so truth is
obnoxious to those who prefer error. R650:3*
Come ye -- If they will not come, let them stay away until
they are ready to come. In time they will be thirsty enough.
R650:6*
To the waters -- In a sense, any who now thirst may come
to Christ and find him a fountain of life--"A well of water
springing up into everlasting life." (John 4:14) R3596:6
These "wells of water" have not yet become the Millennial
"river" of Rev. 22:1, 17. R3596:6
Pictures the Millennial age and its blessings upon the world of
mankind. "Whosoever will, let him take of the water of life
freely." (Rev. 22:17) R1363:3, R3596:6
The water of life will not be forced upon any. R1363:3,
R651:1
Refreshing waters of divine truth. R1936:2, R1363:3,
R650:3*
There is an abundance for us all in our Heavenly Father's
wonderful provision--in the Bible. OV260:3
Hath no money -- None of us has ought to offer as an
equivalent for this priceless treasure. R1936:2
Come, buy wine -- A sanctifying draught. R1363:3
Exhilarating. R1363:3
And milk -- Life-giving. R1363:3
Nourishing. R1363:3
Without money -- Published truth is not for all the poor in
the world, but for the poor who are the Lord's children and
are sufficiently interested to request it. R908:3
Without price -- In the Millennial age, without walking in
the narrow way, or taking up a cross of self-denial and
suffering for righteousness' sake. R3597:2
There is a price at the present time, the price of self-sacrifice
even unto death. R3597:1
Isaiah 55:2
Wherefore do ye -- Who have searched in vain for truth

from other sources. R1363:6
Spend money -- Influence and labor. R1364:1
Which satisfieth not -- Temporally or spiritually. F535
The satisfaction and joy of those who live by faith in the Son
of God is solid compared to the passing ripple of emotion
caused by mere religious excitement. Excitement must
subside, but truth and its joys abide. R23:6*
The present life and present transitory interests. CR16:3
In the Millennial age none will thus vainly search for truth.
R1363:6
Hearken diligently -- The invitation is synonymous with
Rev. 18:4, to come out of Babylon. R1364:1
That which is good -- Meat in due season. R1936:2
The good plan of God. R1364:1
In fatness -- Cream of the Everlasting covenant. R4321:3
A share in the glory, honor and immortality of the Kingdom.
R4321:3
The soul that is fed at the Lord's table is not lean. R1936:2
The good plan of God produces the fatness of understanding.
R1364:1
The fulness, the glorious provision which the Lord has made
for them and which will then be opened before them in the
Mediatorial reign. R3597:3
Isaiah 55:3
Incline your ear -- Turn your ear away from the clashing
of conflicting creeds and incline it toward God's precious
Word. R1364:1
"It shall come to pass that every soul which will not hear that
Prophet shall be destroyed from among the people." (Acts
3:23) R3597:3
Come unto me -- The Master's gracious invitation as it will
soon reach the world of mankind through the glorified
Church. R3597:3
Hear -- Obey. Obedience to God will be the only
requirement for all who, being justified by faith in Christ,
would consecrate themselves fully to God. R442:6
Your soul shall live -- God distinctly declares that the
extreme penalty of wilful sin and wilful rejection of Christ is
the death of the soul. R1196:1
Everlasting covenant -- The New covenant, the agreement
to forgive, to cancel sins that are past. R3597:3, R4321:6
An agreement to share in the sure, holy promises which
belong to his beloved Son--the Kingdom, power and glory of
the world to come. R1364:1
If we put ourselves under Christ's care, the covenant of
sacrifice will be everlasting with us and we shall have the
"sure mercies of David." R5163:6
With you -- If you are Christ's you are David's seed--and
his seed will sit upon the throne to be the Messiah. Q192:2
With those who hunger and thirst after righteousness and who
have consecrated themselves to him, been anointed and have
the witness of the spirit that they are the sons of God.
R1936:3
Sure mercies of David -- Or, holy things promised to
David. R1466:2
The mercies granted to Israel and the world through our Lord,
the great antitypical David (Beloved). R3597:4, R1466:2,
R1364:2; SM731:1
A promise that Messiah would be the root and offshoot of the
Davidic line. SM477:1; Q192:2
We of the Gospel age are invited to share in the sure, holy
promises which belong to our Lord. R1364:2
Of Christ, set forth in Psa. 89:20-37: (1) That his throne
would be established forever; (2) That all would be made
subservient to him; (3) That God's covenant to bless all the
families of the earth would be fulfilled by his reign; (4) That
his children, by redemption and regeneration, would be
established in righteousness; (5) That all the willing and
obedient shall endure forever. R1364:2, R1936:2
To share with Jesus the glory, honor and immortality of the
Kingdom. R4321:3
Isaiah 55:4
I have given him -- The antitypical David, The Christ.

R3597:4
Leader and commander -- As Leader he is our example in
obedience and our Forerunner; and he has said, "Observe all
things whatsoever I have commanded you." (Matt. 28:20)
R61:5
As the great Prophet, Priest and King, typified by Moses and
Melchizedek. R3597:4
Isaiah 55:5
Behold, thou -- Christ. R3597:4

Shalt call a nation -- "A Holy Nation, a Royal Priesthood,
a Peculiar people." (1 Pet. 2:9) R3597:4 R4321:3
Run unto thee -- Throughout the Millennial age. R3597:4
Shows how the work will progress among the people of the
world after The Christ has been glorified. R1364:2
Isaiah 55:6
Seek ye -- All the world during the Millennium. R3597:4

While he is near--When God does reveal his grace it must not
be trifled with. R1364:3
Isaiah 55:7
Forsake his way -- This will not be a time for pardoning

wicked men, but those who desire to forsake their wicked
ways. R1364:3
His thoughts -- The unjust must abandon unrighteousness,
even in thought. R3597:5
Return unto the LORD -- Obedience to God, not
sacrifice, will be required in the Kingdom. R442:6
Isaiah 55:8
For my thoughts -- My plans for man's salvation.

R3598:4
My plans are not your plans. SM85:1; R2733:4
Not your thoughts -- We should not judge the Lord's
methods or laws by the standards accepted among fallen men,
which permit all to live whose liberty would not be dangerous
to society. R1220:4
Thus the vast majority of Christian people cannot take the
standpoint of the saints in the prophetic testimony before us,
but rather the standpoint of the natural man. R2712:3
The world, and not the saints, are addressed. R1023:2
The wonderful blessings of the Kingdom will be beyond the
thinking of mankind. R3597:6, R546:5, R3028:5, R542:2*
Neither are your ways -- In the organization of your
human churches. F197
Many justify themselves, saying, "It is my way." This is no
excuse for retaining the actions, but for rejecting them. If we
would honor God we would not do our own way. R705:3
The uncrucified will always think its own way the best, not
learning to obey orders from the Head and trust God's
superior wisdom where they cannot trace him. R961:3
My ways -- Jehovah's gracious purposes, a great plan of
salvation. A10; R546:5
My ways of executing my plan are not such as you would
surmise. R1364:4
God has not been choosing out exclusively the great, the wise
or the good. R4388:3
My methods. SM85:1
Permitting his truth to be obscured from the worldly-wise by
letting it appear as if the Gospel were accomplishing little or
nothing. CR499:4
Isaiah 55:9
My ways higher -- His plans or methods. CR58:1;

SM42:1, SM6:T, R838:2, R4483:4, R2595:5
God had higher plans for mankind than the Jews expected.
CR58:1; R4463:3
The world does not understand God's plan. R2074:5
While there are certain correspondences between human
secret orders and the one of divine origin the latter is in every
way superior to all others. SM5:3
Grander and more beneficent. R794:3
Let us not mistakenly allow our own littleness of mind to
hinder our appreciation of the true meaning of the Scriptures.
SM249:1
"We make God's love too narrow by false standards of our
own." SM535:2; HG391:2
Illustrated in the contrast between present mission work and
slum work with God's Millennial provision for lifting up the
weak and opening the blind eyes of the barbarians. R2690:2
"The length and breadth and height and depth of the love of
Christ, which passeth all understanding." (Eph. 3:18, 19)
SM42:2
We have every reason to believe in the supernatural. God is
not limited or confined in his power by those laws of nature
which our human understanding can comprehend. R676:1
My thoughts -- My plans--clear, plain, reasonable, just,
loving and wise. R4551:4
It is not in the power of friends or enemies of the Lord to
change his purpose one iota. SM146:T
It is the privilege of the saints, who have laid aside their own
ways and thoughts, to thus think his thoughts. R1023:2,
R1024:5
Than your thoughts -- Your own will and plans. R961:6
All schemes of human origin are necessarily imperfect, like
their formulators. R921:3
Human reason is vastly inferior in scope and power to God's
reason. R1566:3
Isaiah 55:10
Returneth not thither -- In vain. R1030:4*
Isaiah 55:11
So shall my word be -- Including the Harvest Message.

R3883:3
That goeth forth -- Sent forth to Abraham, announcing the
blessing of all the families of the earth. SM90:2, R3052:1
Through Jesus--to gather out a people for his name, the Little
Flock, the Church. SM90:2; R256:6, R1023:6, R1079:6;
HG693:6
The Lord knoweth them that are his, and he knoweth how
best to bring them in contact with the truth. R2965:2
The going forth of the Word of the Lord in all ages must have
reference to the great end; as a man, building a home for
comfort, keeps that in mind in all stages of the building
process. R98:6*
My mouth -- Our Lord Jesus, the mouthpiece of Jehovah.
SM51:1
Not return unto me void -- God's Word shall be fulfilled.
OV184:T, OV86:T, R3598:4, R4347:3
It is certain that it will reach everyone for whom it was
intended. R690:5*
He has the wisdom to foreknow, prepare and plan for the
execution of his justice and love. Further, he has the divine
power to carry out all that his wisdom, justice and love have
planned. SM85:1
Divine wisdom has at all times been able to overrule the
wrath of man to serve him and the remainder to restrain, thus
causing all things to work out the divine purpose. R5263:1
It shall accomplish -- The world has not yet been
converted-proof that the Word has not been sent yet on that
mission. OV223:5; R256:6, R2376:2, R2396:4, R1710:4,
R4212:6, R1023:3; CR343:1; A95
Having begun the work of salvation, God has not abandoned
it and does not intend to abandon it. R2690:1
Nothing could come to pass contrary to divine permission;
although many things do come to pass contrary to divine law--
being permitted for wise purposes. OV33:2
Therefore whatever inharmonies we now see in nature must
be viewed as incidental to the preparations for the perfection
of all things which is not due until "the dispensation of the
fulness of times" (Eph. 1:10) following the Millennial reign
of Christ. R1560:3
Though men call God slack, supposing his promise to punish
the wicked never to be fulfilled, they overlook the fact that
1,000 years with men are as a day with God. R1364:5
While God has permitted the interruption of sin, he has not
permitted, nor does he purpose to permit, a failure of his
plans. R1267:4
As God has promised the Jubilee Restitution, so surely it will
come to pass--but there should be no breathless haste, but a
quiet, patient, faithful waiting on Jehovah. OV86:T
Contrary to the Calvinist concept of election. HG545:5
That which I please -- And is not regulated by prayers out
of accord with his purposes. R1999:2
It shall prosper -- Because of the one purpose of the one
God. E182
Because backed by perfect justice, love, wisdom and power.
E34
The consecrated have no plans of their own; they desire that
God's will shall be done. Since God's plan shall prosper, their
plan shall prosper; for his is theirs. R1383:5
Even while Satan imagines that he hinders. E485; HG433:2
Whereto I sent it -- Hence we know that it has not yet
been sent out to convert the world. A95
God cannot exercise his providence in a way detrimental to
his plan. R1560:1
It will gather his saints, those sanctified in heart. It will not
gather in the world. CR84:5
In this age, for the gathering out from among the mass of
mankind a peculiar people. R1023:6
It is now prospering in the work of selecting the Church; and,
by and by, it will prosper in the work of blessing all the
families of the earth. HG354:1
Nothing can alter the definite, fixed outlines of the divine
program. But the Lord has left certain of the filling in of our
experiences subject to modification. This is where prayer
enters in. R4347:3
It is one God who is operating under various circumstances
and by various means for the accomplishment of his own one
purpose. E182
Isaiah 55:12
Go out with joy -- Out of the prison of death. R542:2*

Be delivered with joy. SM85:1
Led forth with peace -- No longer suffer persecution.
R3597:5
God's purpose in sending forth his Word is the great
Restitution. R1023:3
Brought home in peace, by the Great Shepherd. SM85:1;
R3597:5
Mountains and the hills -- The ruling powers. R1024:4
Trees of the field -- The people. R1024:4
Isaiah 55:13
Instead of the thorn -- The wicked, who lurkingly seek to

injure the unwary. R3597:5, R1364:5; SM86.1
The fir tree -- An evergreen, symbolic of a man possessed
of everlasting life. R3597:5, R1364:5; SM86:1
Whose balsamic influence is healthful, giving a refreshing
effect. SM86:1
Of the brier -- Reaching forth to attack and ensnare those
attracted by its sweet odor typifying the wicked who now
flourish. R3597:6; SM86:1
The myrtle tree -- Beautiful and harmless. R3597:6
An evergreen; yields sweet perfume and berries that are a
delicacy. SM86:1
The fir and myrtle trees represent mankind during the
millennium yielding good influences and possessed of
everlasting life. SM86:1; R3597:6
And it -- The Lord's work of salvation for our race.
R3597:6
For a name -- To his glory and honor. R3597:6, R48:2*
The name given is made to refer to position or official
relationship, so that the position is meant when the word
"name" is used. R48:2*
An everlasting sign -- Of his greatness and goodness.
R3597:6, R1024:4
Isaiah 56
Isaiah 56:1
And do justice -- "Justice and judgment are the habitation

of thy throne." (Psa. 89:14) T124
Isaiah 56:5
A name better -- The name given is made to refer to

position or of official relationship, so that the position is
meant when the word "name" is used. R48:2*
Isaiah 56:7
My house -- The Temple then was merely a figure of a

greater Temple, the Church, which is now in preparation.
CR420:1; R5713:2
"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the
spirit of God dwelleth in you?" (1 Cor. 3:16) R5713:2
House of prayer -- The glorified Church, symbolized by
the Temple with its Shekinah glory, will be the house of
prayer for all nations. R5713:6; CR457:2
Men will approach God through the glorified Church, in
which his presence will be manifested, and his mercy will be
available to all. R5714:1
Isaiah 56:8
Outcasts of Israel -- The publicans and sinners who heard

the Gospel message gladly, but whom the Scribes and
Pharisees rejected. R5004:6
Isaiah 56:10
His watchmen - The clergy of today. R330:4, R717:3

Blind -- Of mental perception. R718:3
Because they hold the traditions of men, they cannot see the
great prize of our calling. R330:5
Describing the last, or Laodicean, stage of the Gospel house.
R717:3, R718:4
Are all ignorant -- Of the character and purposes of God.
R718:3
"Lo, they have rejected the Word of the Lord, and what
wisdom is in them?" (Jer. 8:9) C157
Failing to recognize, and therefore rejecting, the spiritual
King now present. C179
Dumb dogs -- D-- D--s. F287
They cannot bark -- Cannot speak faithfully for the
Master. R718:3
They refuse to awaken the household under their care to a
knowledge of Present Truth. R2674:5
Ministerial etiquette intimidating and sealing the lips of any
disposed to lift up their voice like a trumpet to show God's
people their sins and dangers. R2106:1
Sleeping -- Dreaming or talking in their sleep. F287
Lying down -- Lazy. F287
Loving to slumber -- Loving ease. F287; HG712:6*
Isaiah 56:11
They are shepherds -- Ministers who outwardly pose as

God's servants but in reality are hypocrites. SM134:1
Hireling shepherds, "Whose own the sheep are not." (John
10: 12) D62; HG715:6
To their own way -- Or ism; turned away to fables and
science, falsely so-called. R718:3
Welfare, self-interest. F287, R330:4
For his gain -- High-sounding titles and lucrative church
appointments. R718:3, R3959:4; D61
"The priests thereof teach for hire." (Micah 3:11) F287
From his quarter -- His denomination or sect. C179;
D61; F287; R3449:3, R3748:2; HG715:3
Isaiah 57
Isaiah 57:9
And thou -- Israel, represented as a woman. E371

Wentest to the king -- Made alliance with earthly kings.
E371
Didst debase thyself -- Oblivious to the Lord and to the
principles of his truth and the righteousness which is of faith.
E372
Even unto hell -- Sheol, oblivion, becoming figuratively
dead. E371
Figurative of deep degradation. R2599:5
Isaiah 57:15
High and lofty One -- Jehovah. R5217:3

All who would be in harmony with God must be repentant in
respect to their own shortcomings and must be appreciative of
his lofty standards--his holy standards. R5218:4
Inhabiteth eternity -- Before the mountains were brought
forth, or the hills, before the First-born was created, he is
God. R5217:3
Contrite -- Quiet, deep, continual sorrow for acts not in
harmony with righteousness. R5217:6
Our great and lofty God is particularly sympathetic toward
those of a broken and contrite heart. R5217:3
Humble spirit -- This humble, discouraged condition
becomes a favorable one if the person will seek divine
assistance. R5218:1
The lowly estate in the present life is only the necessary
discipline to fit one for the glory and service of the time to
come. R2139:5*
The aristocracy of the present age will not be the aristocracy
of the new dispensation, but the poor in spirit will reign with
Christ for the blessing of all the families of the earth.
R2139:4*
Revive the spirit -- Give strength and assist in the right
way. R5217:6
Of the humble -- Only the humble-minded can really
appreciate their own condition. God will not only revive their
spirit, but make them again sons of God, with all that this
implies. R5218:4
To revive the heart -- To such he is ever near, to revive
and give them strength. R5217:6
This text applies not only to the present time, but will also
have an application in the next age. R5218:5
Contrite ones -- To be repentant is to be thoroughly
submissive to the divine will, and implies a change of mental
attitude toward sin. R5218:1
Isaiah 57:20
Cast up mire and dirt -- "A froward man soweth strife,

and a whisperer separateth chief friends." (Prov. 16:28)
R2038:4
Isaiah 57:21
No peace... to the wicked -- The peace, joy, rejoicing,

blessing, comfort in the Scriptures are only for the Lord's
beloved ones. SM334:i
Isaiah 58
Isaiah 58:1
Cry aloud -- Point out what the Scriptures have to say.

R5630:5
Attacking errors of doctrine unsparingly, though in kindly
terms. HG558:2
It is not now necessary or proper to cry aloud in the streets, or
at the churches. R5631:3
Like a trumpet -- Sound the trumpet of truth. R1476:5
Shew my people -- Point out to Christendom of today their
error as we have opportunity. R5630:3, R1158:1
But it would not be very well to go about berating them or
anybody. R5630:3
These faithful reprovers are generally abused as enemies.
R577:4; CR351:5
Their transgression -- Their attitude calls for sympathy,
pity and tender help over their misunderstandings rather than
for abuse and cutting and lashing sarcasm. R1158:1
Calling attention to the fact that there is hypocrisy practiced
in the name of religion. R5631:3
House of Jacob -- A distinguishing term referring
exclusively to the Jews, God's ancient covenant people.
R5630:3
Point out to the Jews the reason w they are in their present
cast off condition. R5630:3
Isaiah 58:2
Seek me daily -- Apparently, but actually there is great

zeal for the traditions of men. R5630:6
Isaiah 58:11
Guide thee continually -- Ask him to guide you; and, with

no will of your own, no choice as to the pathway, trusting
everything to God, silently waiting to hear his voice, it will be
given you to know his will. R590:5*
Isaiah 58:13
Doing thy pleasure -- Christian sabbath keeping is to

refrain from doing our own ways, finding our own pleasures
and speaking our own words--every day. HG583:5*
Thine own ways -- That certain ways are our own ways
should be no excuse for retaining them if they are not right.
R705:3
Isaiah 59
Isaiah 59:5
They -- The man-made systems of our day. R718:6

Cockatrice' eggs -- Adders' eggs--Satan's lies. R718:6
Crushed -- Analyzed. R718:6
Viper -- infidelity and Spiritualism, the progeny of Satan.
R718:6
Isaiah 59:14
Truth is fallen -- Truth has been covered and error has

been advanced, accepted and acted upon. R767:1
In the street -- Of Babylon, Christendom. R767:1
Isaiah 59:16
There was no man -- "None righteous, no not one."

(Rom. 3:10) E96
No intercessor -- "None of them can redeem his brother."
(Psa. 49:7) E96
His arm -- Christ Jesus. E47; R765:2*, R1075:3*
Brought salvation -- When there was no eye to pity and
no arm to deliver us God sent his Son for our redemption.
R4792:6, R4963:6
Isaiah 59:17
Of vengeance -- Our time, and the years of trouble before

us. R4265:6
Righteous indignation against wrong. SM420:4
Isaiah 59:18
Repay recompence -- Some fearful calamity awaits her,

the full measure of just retribution; she is to receive a "double
for all her sins." (Isa. 40:2) D39
Isaiah 59:19
Like a flood -- Permitting the Adversary to bring in error

like a flood. R2875:6
Spirit of the LORD -- Throughout the Gospel age, at the
hands of spiritual Israel. D558
Lift up a standard -- The ransom. R642:5
The Vow. R4251:2, R4236:3, R4265:6, R4228:2
This text is variously rendered in different translations, but
the one furnished in our Common Version seems to fit all the
conditions better than any of the others. R4266:1
The specializing of several features of our consecration will
enable many to "resist the devil that he may flee from thee."
(Jas. 4:7) R4236:3
Isaiah 59:20
The Redeemer -- Gaal, one who sets free by avenging or

repaying. E438
The Deliverer. D558
Shall come to Zion -- The Church, the Body of Christ.
D558
In Jacob -- Among fleshly Israel. D557, D558
Isaiah 59:21
Is my covenant --The language of this verse shows that the

Law covenant is still in force upon natural Israel. R1730:1
Isaiah 60
Isaiah 60:1
Arise, shine -- Has a double application-first to spiritual

Israel, and second, to Israel after the flesh. R2036:1,
R2372:5
"Arise, give light." R1746:6
Beginning to be spoken to natural Israel in 1878. R107:2*
Reminding us of our Lord's counsel to Mary after his
resurrection. When she would linger in his presence he
reminded her to bear the good tidings to the other disciples.
R2036:6
Through the secondary instrumentality of the fleshly seed of
Abraham shall all the nations of the world be blessed.
R1746:6
God's message to fleshly Israel at the dawn of the Millennial
age. R1747:1
The prophet calls upon the saints to shine now; all who have
been enlightened by the Harvest Message. R2036:2
Thy light is come -- "The Sun of Righteousness," the Lord
Jesus at his second advent. R2036:1
Light, to Israel, was the hope of the resurrection. That hope is
not yet realized, "waiting for the completion of the
resurrection of Christ." R751:2*
The Bride (as part of the "Sun of Righteousness"). R238:2*,
R2037:4
The Lamb (Head and Body) is the light thereof. (Rev. 21:23)
R244:1*
When the finished Temple of God shall displace the present
tabernacle. R1982:2
Isaiah 60:2
Behold, the darkness -- Confused regarding the plan of

God; from the standpoint of human creeds. CR267:2; A18
Evidenced by the some 600 sects of Christian people, besides
other sects of other religious people. CR267:2
Cover the earth -- Civilized society. R3686:2; CR227:4
And will continue to do so until all the members of the
Church, the "Body" of the great High Priest, shall have first
gone beyond the second veil (actual death) into the Most Holy
by resurrection change. T90
Of the world's population of 1,424,000,000 (1883) nearly
two-thirds are still total heathen, and the remainder are mostly
Mohammedan or followers of great apostate churches.
R535:2*
The entire 6,000 years of the reign of sin, from Adam's
disobedience until the establishment of the reign of Christ,
has been a night time. HG433:3
Satan is "the ruler of the darkness of this world." (Eph. 6:12)
A68
But the world is not always to remain in this condition. "The
morning cometh." (Isa. 21:12) A21
And gross darkness -- "The god of this world hath blinded
the minds of them that believe not." (2 Cor. 4:4) T90;
R2122:6
There are different shades of darkness. R5099:5; CR220:5
The majority are not able to see the desirability of the truth.
R5338:3
Notwithstanding the faithfulness of Jesus and a few
lightbearers. R4987:6
Human affairs have become demoralized by the darkness of
ignorance and superstition. R5097:2
God's people have need to take heed to every step. CR251:4
The people -- The heathen. R3686:2; CR220:4;
SM240:2, SM435:2
Glory shall be seen -- The bow of promise; the Lord
comes while yet darkness covers the earth. A18; R2036:2
There is a refractive light and influence wherever the Lord's
saints reside. SM699:T
When, by and by, we shall shine in the glory of the Kingdom
for the blessing of the whole world. R2036:5
Isaiah 60:3
And the Gentiles -- The nations of the earth in general, the

heathen. A18, R535:1
Not only the living Gentiles. but also the living Jews, shall
come to the light and blessing of the Millennial Kingdom.
R2402:4
Come to thy light -- Applies to spiritual Israel; also to
fleshly Israel restored to favor. D638
After the resurrection of the Church. Christ will be revealed
in glory and light to Israel. They shall fall before him and go
out as a people through whom God will lighten the Gentiles.
R751:3*
From Israel the light will shine out which will bring the
chastened world to its knees and usher in the pouring out of
the spirit of holiness "upon all flesh." D639
The world will be given time to see in Israel the operation of
divine government, in contrast with anarchy, so that the
majority of all nations shall desire the Kingdom rule. D638
None shall be permitted to languish in darkness or fail of
eternal life by reason of lack of knowledge, but in due time all
the blind eyes shall be opened. R2409:1
And kings -- Earth's principal ones. D638
Isaiah 60:4
And thy daughters -- "And I will give them (Sodom and

Samaria) unto thee for daughters." (Ezek. 16:61) D638
Isaiah 60:5
Then -- During the Millennial age. E23

Thou shalt see -- A glorious day of opening blinded eyes.
D638
Flow together -- Be filled with light. D638
Thine heart shall fear -- Heart shall be awed. D638
God does not desire the service of fear, except that filial fear
which is inspired by love, which dreads to incur his
displeasure or to be ungrateful for his favors. R829:6*
The abundance -- Now. however, the great Fisherman has
no special use for any more or other than one kind of fish.
R920:2
Of the sea -- The anarchistic masses. D638
Shall be converted -- His enemies shall fall before him.
They will be enemies no more. It is the error that made them
enemies--the falsehood. HG272:6
The forces of -- The best of the Gentiles. D638
Isaiah 60:11
Gates shall be open -- Compare with Isa. 26:2 and Rev.

21:24-26. R1951:1, R2338:3
Isaiah 60:13
My sanctuary -- All mankind's blessings (Rev. 21:3-5)

will result from the establishment of God's residence or
sanctuary among men. T76
I will make -- At about this time we are to expect
wonderful contortions of nature and some radical changes in
earth's conditions to make it more adapted to the wants of
man during the Millennial age and throughout eternity.
HG400:6
The place of my feet -- "Earth is my footstool." (Isa. 66:1)
T76; R1874:5, R286:2, R5060:5, R5078:4, R5364:4,
R5839:1, R6013:5
The promises of God to the children of Isaac and Jacob are
not heavenly or spiritual, but earthly. SM504:T
Glorious -- The restored earth. D647, SM37:3, SM389:2,
SM504:T, OV351:1
Paradise restored will no longer be a garden merely, but the
whole earth. SM503:2; OV351:1; HG435:2
When the Kingdom is set up. R5058:1, R4768:1, R5839:1
Isaiah 60:14
The city of the LORD -- Earthly or heavenly Jerusalem.

R56:1*
The Zion -- Not only the earthly Jerusalem is called Zion,
but also the heavenly. (Heb. 12:18, 22) R56:5*
Isaiah 60:16
And thy Redeemer -- Author of the divine plan of

redemption. E33
Isaiah 60:18
Walls Salvation -- Symbolic of protection and security.

R333:6
The salvation walls rest securely on the finished redemption--
the completed foundation as expressed by Jesus, the apostles
and prophets. (Eph. 2:20) R333:6
Isaiah 60:21
Of my planting -- The Vine of Jehovah's right-hand

planting. R3544:3, R3806:5
"I am the true Vine, and my Father is the Husbandman.",
(John 15:1) R3544:2
Isaiah 61
Isaiah 61:1
The Spirit -- The holy Spirit, the power of God. R5588:2,

R240:4, R5068:4; E169
Not a "ghost," or a person in any sense. E169
Leaders of the Lord's people must have first, a knowledge of
the Lord's Word, and, second, the possession of a good degree
of the spirit of the truth. R5982:5
Divine truth comes to us with all the authority of its divine
author. R2057:2
Many today, ignoring the divine test, looking merely to
education and talents, are serving as ministers in the church of
Christ who would make no profession of being spirit-begotten
and give no outward evidence thereof. R5940:2
Of the Lord GOD -- Not another god, but it was the
Father's spirit that was communicated to our Lord Jesus.
E169
Is upon me -- To all appearances the prophet was the
person meant. Yet, when Jesus points out its fulfilment in
himself (Luke 4:18) we see that in him its conditions were
fully met. R436:2
Jesus quoted this prophecy in Luke 4:18 and applied it to
himself and his work. R240:1
The Christ, Head and Body. F276; R5971:5, R311:6;
PD73/87
From the time of Jesus' baptism. R3300:5, R5291:6,
R5536:2, R1715:2; CR436:2
We are begotten of the spirit, as was he. R5536:5
Hath anointed me -- The word "anointed" is used in the
sense of ordination. R5536:2
The word "Christ" signifies "the Anointed." CR458:3
To Jesus it was a witness that his sacrifice was accepted,
evidence that he would receive the divine nature, and it
enabled him to know and do the Father's will. R240:4
The anointing of the Church7 is for a work yet future, in the
next age. R5537:1
Illustrated in the anointing of the typical High Priest, the oil
poured on the head only and running down to the skirts of his
garments-showing how all true Christians come under the
anointing of their Head. (Psa. 133:2) R1715:3, R5536:5,
R5971.6
This is the only divinely authorized commission that was ever
given to any man to preach the Gospel. R1715:2, R4307:5,
R5536:2, R5537:2, R5940:1, R5893:2, R2925:5, R5807:3
The Church, Head and Body, is God's Anointed. CR460:4;
OV161:T, R3436:1, R5536:5
Although this did not come directly upon the Church until
Pentecost, they had a foretaste of it in that the Lord conferred
upon them a share of his holy Spirit power when he sent them
out to preach. F212
Every member--male and female. R1549:1, R1083:1*
Only partially fulfilled at our Lord's first advent; its complete
fulfilment is due now, in his Day; but we should not expect
all of its fulfilment in the first dawn of the Day. R629:5
The commission of the apostles was in the main, the same as
the commission of the Lord and the whole Church. It was to
preach the Gospel of the Kingdom. R1521:5, R1972:3
The burying of the dead, the administration of baptism, the
administering of the elements of the Lord's Supper--any of the
brethren may perform for another. R1017:3*
As the oil in the type should be composed of things that none
should ever have except the High Priest and the king; so God
represented that he would anoint certain ones with the holy
Spirit for a special purpose. CR459:6
With God, human ordination counts for nothing. R5537:2,
R296:1, R5363:2; PD73/87
To preach -- The commission of The Christ is one of
service. F212
Everyone who receives the holy Spirit is ordained to preach.
R5588:2, R5940:1, R537:2; F276; CR343:3; Q514:2
The chief business of life. R3211:1, R1440:4, R942:4,
R334:6
We should rejoice in the privilege of proclaiming the good
tidings. R5537:3
Applies to every member of The Christ. R5698:3, R2057:3,
R2157:1*, R646:1, R537:2, R335:1, R241:3
R6023:3*, R5363:2, R5956:6, R768:6, R1575:4, R1720:6:
R1891:2, R1917:5; F242
None can be of the Anointed body except they be preachers to
the extent of their ability or talent. R812:3*, R942:4,
R1917:5, R5893:2
The spirit of the Anointed one is not designed to qualify you
for any work except preaching--in some sense, in action or
word. R311:6
But it is of very great importance that we consider well what,
when, how, where, and to whom, we may preach. R646:2
As the Master did not give his time to temperance or social or
political reform, but rather to the instruction of the people in
the doctrines of the Word--so let us be content to follow him
in this matter. OV260:6
Preaching is not always public declaration; every influence
that we can send out within our talents is preaching the
Gospel. R1917:5, R5893:4
One limitation of the Apostle is that the sisters are not to
teach in public. R5588:2
Good tidings -- God's grace, mercy and peace through
Jesus--to all who have an ear to hear. R3211:1, R241:2,
R335:1, R5740:4
The Gospel of the Kingdom. R1521:5, R1714:3; E378
Good news in two parts: Of restitution, resurrection, as well
as the great prize of the high calling. R241:2
Including private conversations with neighbors and friends.
R5956:3
We are not commissioned to teach other matters than the one
Gospel, but we may use every other subject to introduce the
plan. R1440:4
Let those who have not the Gospel, but who have merely a
message of reformation, preach political reforms, social
reforms, moral reforms. R2965:6
Unlike John the Baptist, it is not the duty of the Lord's people
to go through the world rebuking sin, but preaching the
Gospel. R3326:2
Unto the meek -- Those willing and able to hear; the poor.
R241:4, R629:4, R2310:5, R3200:6
The meek alone can, or shall, see the Present Truth. E90;
CR386:1; R445:5*, R795:2, R935:6, R956:6
Meek enough to receive the good tidings by faith. R1714:3
We are to seek those who are feeling after the Lord, not
satisfied with the things of the world, and are teachable.
R5537:2, R1468:4; CR386:1
Our Lord's teachings only convinced the meek, and only such
he expected to receive them. R1059:3
Lovers of righteousness-only such were accounted worthy of
it. R1557:3
As the work of the first advent began in the synagogues of the
Jews, so now the truths of the new dispensation belong to the
Christian first before going to the world in general. R1461:4
Not the proud, arrogant, hard-hearted, profane, rebellious and
indifferent. E488; R1465:6, R1461:4, R5537:2, R2965:6
As soon as you find that the person you are talking with is not
meek, you should draw off. Don't antagonize him or try to
give him an ear. Q512:2
"The meek will he guide in judgment; the meek will he teach
his way." (Psa. 25:9) R3103:3
To bind up -- Jesus' footstep-followers are authorized to
do the work of a good physician and bind up the
brokenhearted. SM264:1
In many instances the broken heart needs to be touched with
the application of the healing balm of grace and truth, but the
touches should be gentle. If more breaking of the heart is
necessary it is not for us to do. R4131:2
The message of the Lord's lips at the present time are not
arrows (Psa. 45:5), nor the sword--but an invitation to rest.
(Matt. 11:28-30) SM53:1
The brokenhearted -- Our mission is not to break hearts,
but to heal broken ones. R3436:1, R5521:2, R5537:1,
R2965:6, R3326:3; Q512:2; SM265:2
With the message of divine mercy; that the Kingdom will
bring order, peace and joy. R5449:1, R1714:3
Sin is breaking the hearts of thousands--through man's
disappointment in himself and his own ambitions, efforts,
friends, business and pleasure. SM266:T
The Church's special work in blessing and comforting the
world will be in the Kingdom. R5537:1
To proclaim liberty -- A return to their former estate,
restitution. A112; R241:1; SM504:1
Freedom from evil, maladies and death. R241:1, R816:3
In the antitypical Jubilee--in the type the setting free of every
debtor and the return of everyone to his home foreshadowed
the return of all mankind to liberty--to freedom from sin and
its tyranny. R1055:6; CR113:6
The healing and setting at liberty a few from the prison-house
of death at the first advent was merely a foretaste of the
grander work at the second advent. R2310:5, R5068:5
After sin and Satan are destroyed men can be entrusted fully
with the precious boon of liberty; and the liberty of one will
not infringe upon the liberties of another. R1737:6
To the captives -- Of sin, ignorance and superstition.
R4793:3, R2310:5, R5068:4, R240:6
Captives of sin, receiving daily its wages--dying by inches
and entering the great prison-house, the tomb. R1086:1
In death. A112; R1714:6, R1086:1, R4793:2
All are prisoners: some in the grave and some not yet
entombed. R838:6, R1055:6
And the opening -- The resurrection from the dead.
CR113:6; R4553:1, R4793:2
"I have the keys of death." (Rev. 1:18) E378; SM32:T,
HG497:4
Christ is to deliver death's prisoners. He did not do so at his
first advent, but will in due time set at liberty all the captives,
opening the prison doors of hades (the tomb). R458:4*
They will all come forth to trial--not on Adam's sin, nor on
account of things done while under the Adamic penalty, but
to a new trial for life on their own responsibility. R3372:1
Of the prison -- The great prison-house of death. E422;
SM504:1, SM611:1; R303:5, R474:4, R240:6, R838:6
"All that are in their graves shall hear his voice and shall
come forth." (John 5:28, 29) R2613:3, R4552:6
This cannot refer to a literal release from prison at the first
advent because John the Baptist was not released. HG130:3
Jesus did not deliver death's prisoners at the first advent.
R458:4, R816:6; SM32:T, HG143:3, HG497:4
He did not preach a discharge of all culprits in states' prisons.
This would not be "good news." R240:6
To them that are bound -- Captives of death. R303:6
Isaiah 61:2
The acceptable year -- Time, period, the Gospel age,

during which God will accept joint-sacrificers with Jesus.
R3301:1, R241:5, R1714:6, R4505:2, R5068:5, R4535:3;
SM48:2
And -- At the word "and" between "Lord" and "the" the
Gospel age parenthesis comes in. HG52:5
The day of vengeance -- Those who come into conflict
with God's laws reap the penalty of their own course. A308
Time of fire, or purifying trouble. R241:6
We are on the very eve of this great Day of Vengeance.
R5537:5
World War I is the one predicted in the Scriptures as
associated with the "Day of Vengeance." R5601:2
Not the thought of divine malice; but violators of God's laws
reaping the penalty of their own course. A308
It is part of the good news only because we are able to
recognize the blessed results God intends shall follow
afterward. R241:6
Also called the "year of my redeemed." (Isa. 63:4) R116:1*
Jesus omitted reading this part of the prophecy; it was not
then due; but it is now. R5537:5, R287:3, R757:3,
R1714:3,6, R241:6, R59:2*, R1917:6; A218
Jesus and the apostles had an important work in proclaiming
the "good tidings of good," but only the "feet of him" are
privileged to say "unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!" (Isa. 52:7)
R757:3, R287:3
To comfort -- By the "Comforter, the holy Spirit" (John
14:26), "Through the comfort of the Scriptures." (Rom. 15:4)
R2665:1
One of the features of our commission as ambassadors of the
Lord. R5537:4
With the knowledge that their sins are forgiven, and that God
is very sympathetic. R2664:6
The children of God have had their own hearts bound up and
healed by the Great Physician, hence they know where to
direct longing hearts who need the balm which only God can
give. R5537:4
Communicated by members of the Church one to another:
"Wherefore comfort one another." (1 Thes. 4:18) R2665:2
All that mourn -- The vast majority of mankind. R2664:2
In the end of the time of trouble the whole world will be
comforted by the Lord's reign. R1715:1
Isaiah 61:3
To appoint -- To promise. R241:2, R2664:5
The great Millennial work is foreshown in verse 3. R1917:6

Them that mourn in Zion -- The wheat class in nominal
Zion have often painfully observed the spirit of the world
operating through the tare element. D30; R5537:4, R1441:2,
R1715:2, R1493:3
The Lord's people in the present life have a ministry of
comfort to perform. R2665:4, R5537:4
Not only to Zion, the consecrated Church, but to all that
mourn, the repentant. R2664:2, R241:2
To give unto them -- In the New Day dawning. HG615:3
Beauty -- The beauty of the resurrection. R3436:1
The completeness and symmetry of divine truth. R1715:2
For ashes -- The ashes of death. R3436:1
Of human creeds. R1715:2
The oil of joy -- The message of grace. R5537:4, R241:2,
R2664:6, R5133:5
Symbol of the spirit. R241:2
Thus the "Little Flock" is promised a share in the same
anointing as their Head, Jesus. R241:2
Garment of praise -- Even the lovingkindness of our God.
R3436:1
The glories which the Lord has promised by and by. R3436:1
Spirit of heaviness -- Induced by the unsatisfying human
creeds. R1715:1
Disappointments, sorrows and troubles of this present time.
R3436:1
Trees of righteousness -- Not undeveloped sprouts, but
those that have grown and matured. R5559:1
Isaiah 61:4
And they shall -- In the Times of Restitution. E23

Build the old wastes -- Prophetic of the rebuilding of
natural Israel. R1044:1
Isaiah 61:7
For your shame -- Verses 7 to 11 relate to the Messianic

Kingdom. R2372:5
Isaiah 61:10
I will greatly rejoice -- The Anointed Body. R1948:6

Be joyful in my God -- Even in the present life. R1948:3
Garments of salvation -- An expression that can be used
interchangeably with the "robe of righteousness." Q603:2
Our salvation is not complete but begun in the sense that we
are already counted as on the Lord's side. Q603:2
Covered me -- He covers our unwilling imperfections by
the robe of Christ's righteousness. R5073:1
Robe of righteousness -- Justification; as necessary to the
noblest as to the most degraded. Q603:2
Isaiah 62
Isaiah 62:1
For Zion's sake -- The typical Zion is the Jewish nation;

and the antitypical Zion is the glorified Christ. Thus the
blessings of the Church, on the spirit plane, will have their
counterpart on the earthly plane with the Ancient Worthies.
R4913:3
Isaiah 62:2
A new name -- "She shall be called, "Jehovah our

Righteousness or the Righteousness of Jehovah." (Jer. 33:16)
R4913:3
Isaiah 62:3
Crown of glory -- Each jewel will be placed in its

particular setting by Jehovah. "God hath set the members in
the body." (1 Cor. 12:18) R4913:6; HG607:1
Royal diadem -- A lamp. R1389:1
A beautiful ornament in the divine hand. R4913:3; CR333:2
Our Lord Jesus was the first setting in this great diadem,
followed by his members. R4913:6
The "crown" and "diadem" express practically the same
thought, the repetition making the sentiment doubly
impressive. A diadem is a crown. HG606:6
Set in the gold of the divine nature. OV424:4
Hand of thy God -- The Church, in the hand of our God, is
to be exhibited to angels and to men as a marvelous piece of
workmanship. OV424:4; R4914:1; CR333:2; HG606:6
Isaiah 62:5
God rejoice over thee -- Jehovah will rejoice over the

restored land of Israel. R1389:1
Isaiah 62:6
I have set watchmen -- Prophets and others--God's care.

R1795:6
We examine with close scrutiny the words and
communications of the brethren who labor among us, for God
hath set them as watchmen on the walls of Jerusalem. (Words
fitly spoken, commanding our attention and respect--Editor.)
R309:1*,6
Isaiah 62:7
Jerusalem -- The heavenly and the earthly. R309:1*
Isaiah 62:10
Through the gates -- In the Millennia] Kingdom the

gates of faithful obedience will be clearly seen and easily
accessible to all. R1771:5
Prepare ye -- Ye: the true Church. B31; R1771:3
Preparations for the incoming age. No provision for the
proud, haughty, self-conscious, but all for the humble-minded.
R5218:5; E240
Cast up the highway -- "And an highway shall be there."
(Isa. 35:8) A215-218; R1055:3, E240
Not a "narrow way" of sacrifice, for the day of sacrifice will
be past. E240
That highway will lead to the perfection of human nature.
R860:4
The mountain of difficulty shall be leveled and the valleys of
despair and discouragement shall be filled up. R1772:6
The Millennial King's highway will have an upward grade.
R1772:5, R1771:5
Gather out the stones -- The stumbling stones, error,
temptation. etc. A217; R1248:2, R860:2, R3673:5,
R2610:2, R542:4*
None of the licensed (or unlicensed) evils of the present day
will find a place under the glorious reign of righteousness.
R1248:2, R1520:6
Lift up a standard -- The true standard--the "cross of
Christ," the "Ransom." R3673:5
The truth. A217
Pointing to the outcome of God's plan. B31
Time, talent, money, should be spent in lifting up the truth.
R1029:4
The Vow represents a very high standard of Christian living.
R4266:1
For the people -- "We are made a spectacle unto the
world." (1 Cor. 4:9) Q744:T, F231
Isaiah 62:11
Salvation cometh -- Jesus fulfilled this prophecy and that

of Zech. 9:9 when he rode into Jerusalem upon the ass.
(Matt. 21:5) R3850:6
With the second advent of the Lord. F664
Isaiah 63
Isaiah 63:1
Who is this -- The Prophet takes his standpoint down at

the end of the Harvest of the Gospel age. D14
That cometh from Edom -- Christendom. D15
Corresponding to the symbolic Babylon of Revelation, Isaiah,
Jeremiah and Ezekiel. D17
An appropriate symbol for a class who, in this age, have
similarly sold their birthright for a consideration as trifling as
the mess of pottage which influenced Esau. D15
From Bozrah -- The capital of Edom. The word means
"sheepfold." It is even yet noted for its goats. Hence a type
of ecclesiasticism. D17
Glorious in his apparel -- Clothed with authority and
power. D14
I that speak -- The King of kings and Lord of lords, our
blessed Redeemer and Lord Jesus. D17
Mighty to save -- Jesus was such because he was sinless.
E96
Isaiah 63:3
I have trodden -- This work has already (1915) begun in

the present European war which is growing in severity and
awfulness day by day. R5698:1
The winepress -- The last work of this eventful "Harvest"
period, the last feature of the great time of trouble. D18
The great conflict is before us. R5697:6
Alone -- Divine, not human power, is to overthrow the
nations. There will be no human Alexander, Caesar or
Napolean to bring order out of the confusion. D18
None with me -- In our Lord's saddest hour it was not
possible for even his closest earthly friends to enter into his
feelings. R3886:4, R2467:2, R4428:6, R4701:3, R5550:6
Not one who understood the circumstances and conditions
and who could share his grief by offer of sympathy,
encouragement or consolation. F438, F478
With us it is different--we have the fellow-members of the
Body. F478
Because he alone had been begotten of the holy Spirit.
SM218:3; R4707:5; Q703:2
Isaiah 63:4
Day of vengeance -- "It is the day of the Lord's vengeance

and the year of recompence for the controversy of Zion."
(Isa. 34:8) R3841:5
The time of trouble. D11
The natural result of not heeding the Lord's instructions.
A309
The pulling down of the old dispensation. B222
The Day of Wrath is included in the Gospel Harvest, in the
closing ministry of Christ. R115:6*
From this text Hebraists evolve, by what they term "Raise
Teboth," the sentence: "All Judah shall hear and behold the
fall of Nicholas, emperor of Muscovy, on account of the
oppression of the children of Judah, and after happening our
fall will happen our real redemption, and near at hand for the
children of Judah will be the good tidings of the Tishbite
prophet." R615:6*; C264
And the year -- Or time. R3841:5
Of my redeemed -- "For the year of my redeemed is
come"-vengeance follows immediately upon the completion
of the "Little Flock." R247:5
The establishment of the new dispensation. B222; R1385:6
At the same time destruction comes to one class redemption
comes to the other. R1385:6
Hebraists evolve, "When Nicholas reigns redemption comes."
C264
Isaiah 63:5
Mine own arm -- My own power. D18

Salvation -- God's sympathy was manifested in the
promise to Abraham, that one of his posterity would be the
Savior of the world. R4963:6
Isaiah 63:6
Drunk -- Intoxication of error, false doctrines and theories.

R4287:3
Isaiah 63:9
He was afflicted -- The Lord's consecrated people belong

so completely to him that in all their afflictions he is afflicted.
R5173:3
Our Lord was not sick with ordinary maladies. His perfect
organism was proof against special diseases. It would appear
that his healing of diseases exhausted his vitality, leaving
upon him the weight of our sicknesses. R4138:3
Saved them -- Applies merely to the overcoming Church
of the first-born, typified by the first-born of Israel spared at
the time of the first passover. R2911:6
Isaiah 64
Isaiah 64:4
Prepared for him -- Jesus has gone to prepare them a

place in the Father's house on high--a very different one than
the place for man, earth. R4675:1, R4966:2
A heavenly salvation for the Church, the Bride of Christ.
R4966:2
Isaiah 64:6
Our righteousnesses -- Unless covered by the merit of

Christ. E445
God uses his righteousness for us, the wedding garment of all
his people. Q604:4
As filthy rags -- All endeavors toward righteousness on
our part aside from the merit of Christ. E445
It would be a fearful thing for us to stand trial before God in
our own righteousness. R1261:3, R1392:1
Isaiah 65
Isaiah 65:9
Mine elect -- Jesus. the Head and the Church, his Body.
R3587:4
Isaiah 65:12
Ye did not answer -- Israel's rejection of Messiah.

OV76:T
Isaiah 65:14
Vexation of spirit -- From a broken spirit ye shall howl.

OV76:T
Isaiah 65:16
Blesseth himself -- All nations shall bless themselves in

becoming Abraham's seed in coming into relationship with
the Kingdom of Israelitish basis. R5810:1
Isaiah 65:17
For, behold -- Verses 17 to 25 give a prophetic view of the

Millennial reign of Christ. R4411:1*
I create -- The Lord speaks of Restitution as a new
creation. R604:3*
He that was able to create is also able to recreate those once
completely destroyed. R604:5*
New heavens -- Spiritual ruling powers. R631:1,
R3312:5; PD94/108
Christ and the Church, reigning. Q580:2; PD94/108
And a new earth -- Human society. R3312:5; PD94/108;
Q580:2
Mankind regenerated, or brought to life again. R631:1,
R604:6*
And the former -- Having been "removed like a cottage."
(Isa. 24:19, 20) D558
Not be remembered -- We will try to forget all those
things of death and imperfection. Q580:3
Nor come into mind -- The grandest earthly arrangements
today would seem so trivial you would want to forget all
about them, the things in the future being so far superior to
these. Q581:7
Isaiah 65:18
Jerusalem -- The earthly phase of the Kingdom. A297

A rejoicing -- Because of the exaltation of the Body of
Christ to Kingdom power and glory. R1649:4
Isaiah 65:20
No more thence -- Conditions under Messiah's reign will

be very different than at present. OV127:2
An infant of days -- No infant shall be born to die in a few
days, as many do now. All shall come to maturity. R631:1,
R5218:6; Q492:2; OV127:1
Nor an old man -- The old man who died and will be
brought back to life again will have just the same chance as
the infant in that age--the full length of his probation. R631:2
Not filled his days -- He might, at the very least, by
obedience to the laws of Messiah's Kingdom, live to the
conclusion of the Millennium. HG232:5; E478
The shortest period of probation in the next age will be one
hundred years. R631:2, R1649:5
The child shall die -- "As a lad shall one die." (Leeser)
A144
They will be but "children," partially developed. R1261:6
Spoken of as children compared to those who will live on and
become perfect. R4986:2, R631:2, R283:4, R3556:4*;
OV127:2
But an infant, at 100 years of age, as in the antediluvian age.
R3066:5
Just as, before the flood, when the average life was between
600 and 900 years, anyone dying at 100 would have been
dying practically in childhood. Q492:2 OV127:4
The Second Death, because of having failed to benefit by the
opportunities given to them. R2304:3, R1261:3
We may be sure that torture will not needlessly be inflicted on
such. OV131:5
Electrocution will be the method used. OV131:5
Similarly, in olden times, Aaron's two sons violated their
relationship with God and were smitten to death with an
electric flash. OV131:5
The decision of some individual cases will be reached long
before the end of the age; but in each age there is a "Harvest"
or general separating time in the end of the age. R2606:2
The trial for life or death will proceed during all the
Millennial age--throughout all that thousand-year judgment
day. R4986:4, R2980:2
100 years old -- Thus all are granted at least 100 years of
trial. A144; OV129:4; R631:2
The extreme limit of reasonable mercy. OV129:4
Ample time for the world to see whether they will make even
a little progress upward. R4986:4
After this, if there is a tendency to hold on, to appreciate and
make use of the divine favors, "A bruised reed he will not
break." (Isa. 42:3) R1772:5 Restitution blessings will
recover mankind from the effect of the fall, so that it shall be
as in Adam's day-full human maturity will be reached in a
century, and a man dying then would be dying in childhood.
OV128:2
Before one can then make progress he must enter into the
New covenant and formally purpose to come into line with
the requirements of the great King. R5240:4, R5388:5
Without receiving all the benefits of the Millennial reign--
simply because he refused to avail himself of them. R1426:4
Four times the period of mature experience in the present
time. R1261:6
Not a guarantee--he may die sooner if sufficiently wilful or
disobedient; but he may prolong his life, if in a measure
disobedient, for 100 years, but no longer. Q201:2, Q492:2
But the sinner -- Who makes no progress toward
perfection under full light and opportunity. A144, A242;
R1649:5, R4794:1, R3066:5; CR376:3
Who, after reasonable trial would oppose the rule of the
Kingdom in any particular. F709; R4986:1, R5240:4,
R5388:5
The wilfully rebellious sinner. R5442:3; OV127:2; Q201:2;
HG148:4
None out of Christ will be made alive, fully resurrected,
though all experience the awakening from death and a trial to
prove their worthiness or unworthiness. R1592:4
He dies for his own sin, not for Adam's, as Adamic sin and
Adamic Death have been cancelled. He dies the Second
Death. R631:2
Sin and death go hand in hand, and neither shall be destroyed
until the end of the thousand years. R10:3*
Shall be -- The decision of some individual cases will be
reached long before the end of the Millennial age. R2606:2
Accursed -- Cut off from life. D643; R2051:4, R4986:2;
SM172:1; Q492:2
If any who prove faithful during the first hundred years
should then oppose righteousness, such would be cut off.
R4986:2
One may die sooner than a hundred years if sufficiently wilful
and disobedient. Q201:2
The sinner shall be accursed who dieth a hundred years old.
R2063:5. R4986:2
The new Kingdom will have abundant power to execute
summary sentence in the punishment of evildoers, when they
have determined to act, but before they have done injury to
others. D633
In the Second Death--destruction--from which there is to be
no ransom and no resurrection. R1772:1
Not sent to eternal torment. OV131:2
Isaiah 65:21
And they shall -- Earthly blessings to Abraham's natural

seed, and through Israel to all nations. R4956:6, R329:5,
R1227:5, R5575:1, R4966:2
Build houses -- Instead of witnessing to them, as to us, that
houses and lands must be forsaken to gain a heavenly
inheritance. R376:6
In the Times of Restitution. (Acts 3:21) R2323:5
Improved and cultivated homesteads. R1649:5
Earthly blessings. R4956:6; Q282:2
Not according to a fixed, common idea so that everyone will
be exactly equal in convenience, elegance or tastefulness, but
each may work out his own ideas and enjoy the results.
R1326:6
There will not be rich nor poor. There will be socialism in
the proper sense. OV186:2
And inhabit them -- The individual right of property will
be respected. R1326:5
Isaiah 65:22
Another inhabit -- There will be no such thing as a

landlord in the coming age. R2904:2, R6013:4, R1649:5;
SM791:1; OV1862
Days of a tree -- "They shall renew their strength." (Isa.
40:31) R1649:5
It is believed that some trees live to be at least a thousand
years old. OV128:3
Mine elect -- All the faithful and obedient then. R1649:5
Shall long enjoy -- Shall make them continue long
(Margin). R3597:4
God's provision for restored Israel and all the families of the
earth, but not for the Church. R4966:2
The everlasting possession of the land promised to Abraham.
R1652:4
Every hope held forth to the Jew is earthly. OV118:1
Isaiah 65:23
Nor bring forth -- Seems to indicate that childbearing will

continue for some time into the Millennial age, if not up to
within 100 years or so of its close. R4411:2*
For trouble -- "Unto an early death." (Leeser) R4411:2*
They -- A human class and under the administration of the
Kingdom. Q426:5
Are the seed -- The children. R1649:5
Blessed of the LORD -- The Church. R1649:5
The class, coming up by awakening from the dead, are not
considered Adam's seed, but are the seed of the "Blessed and
Only Potentate," who will then be known as the "Everlasting
Father." (1 Tim. 6:15; Isa. 9:6) R4411:5*
Their offspring -- During an early stage in the
Millennium. Q426:5
The cutting off of the matter of human families will be a
gradual one. Q426:5
Perhaps of those who have not been child bearers during the
present time, to replace in the earthly family those who will
be of the spiritual nature and those cut off in the Second
Death. R4411:5*
Isaiah 65:24
Before they call -- Before the desires of their hearts have

found expressions in words. R1866:5
So near will the Lord be, so mindful of all mankind's interests.
R1649:5
God foreknows all our difficulties and has arranged for our
relief, merely waiting for us to cry unto him. R5278:4
I will answer -- Will begin to so shape events as to bring
the answer sooner or later. R1866:5
When, with broken and contrite hearts, they turn to the Lord.
R1561:5
First, in the redemption provided; and secondly, in the
necessary hard experiences which shall have brought them to
repentance and humble dependence on God. R1561:5
While a prophecy relating to the Millennial age, it is
nevertheless true of all his faithful ones of this age. R1866:5
Isaiah 65:25
The wolf -- Possibly literal; possibly referring to men of

wolf-like disposition. R1649:6, R5574:4
And the lamb -- Possibly literal, possibly referring to men
of lamb-like disposition. R1649:6, R5574:4
Shall eat straw -- No longer eat flesh, but return to his
original condition in the Garden of Eden. R2837:1, R5574:4
And dust -- Signifying the destruction of Satan. "His
enemies shall lick the dust." (Psa. 72:9) R1649:6, R5574:4
The serpent's meat -- Satan's. R1649:6, R5574:4
They shall not hurt -- But shall be fully restrained
therefrom. D633
"No lion shall be there." (Isa. 35:9) A217
This will be realized when Messiah's Kingdom shall have
been established amongst men. R4768:1
Nor destroy -- The supposition that there would be any
catastrophe then would be out of harmony with this prophecy.
R5318:1
The microbes of disease and pestilence shall be restrained.
R1771:6
My holy mountain -- Kingdom. R1649:6
The stone which smote the image on its feet and afterwards
became a great mountain. (Dan. 2:35) R2375:1
Isaiah 66
Isaiah 66:1
Heaven is my throne -- Symbolic language to show God's

all-embracing power and control. OV2:4; R5547:5
God has heaven for his locality, but his power pervades the
universe. OV3:1
God is not present in person everywhere. R5547:5
Earth is my footstool -- God's footstool. "I will make the
place of my feet glorious." (Isa. 60:13) T76; CR113:6;
R5364:4, R5060:5; OV351:1
The entire earth is to become like the Garden of Eden.
R6013:5, R5839:1
Jehovah used his footstool before sin entered, but has since
removed his presence. R286:1
The word "feet" is sometimes used in the Old Testament to
represent permanent establishment, or rest. R286:1
Messiah's Kingdom will not only uplift humanity, but will
also ring blessings of perfection to the earth. Eden eventually
will be made worldwide. R5364:5
The house -- The Temple. R2139:4*
All the blessings secured by the Day of Atonement will result
from the establishment of God's residence, or sanctuary,
amongst men. T76
Place of my rest -- Zech. 14:3-5 describes when and how
Jehovah will establish his feet or residence. R286:2
Isaiah 66:2
To him that is poor -- The aristocracy of the present age

will not be the aristocracy of the new dispensation; but the
poor in spirit will reign with Christ to bless all the families of
the earth. R2139:4*
Isaiah 66:5
Hear the word -- It remains with you, as it did with the

man born blind, to keep silence and remain in the church, or
confess his presence and be cast out. R213:6, R4150:4
Ye that tremble -- You who judge yourselves; you for
whom a word or look of reproof is sufficient. E233
Your brethren -- False brethren. SM222:1
Applies also to members of our own families who are not in
sympathy with the truth. R5172:5
That hated you -- Nearly all persecutions that have come
to God's people have come from professed Christians, fellow-believers.
R5479:3, R5215:5, R214:1; SM222:1; PD13/23
We do not know but that they will go to the extreme in our
day-to kill socially, to kill ecclesiastically, perhaps to kill
physically. R5479:3
There is in the human heart a treacherous disposition to do
evil if only an excuse for it can be found. PD84/97
Those who have persecuted the Royal Priesthood unwittingly
will be mercifully dealt with, and be ashamed. R5636:3,
R5893:3
Cast you out -- Rejected you. R4094:6
Wherever this present light comes, all who accept it are
driven out from organized bodies and its opposers are left to
themselves. HG73:5
Those who attempt to use their liberty to preach the good
news in the synagogues today will either convert whole
congregations or awaken storms of opposition. C182
Evidences multiply that the mob spirit, the inquisition spirit,
is growing. PD84/97
The present is the assembling to his standard of the "outcasts"
of nominal spiritual Israel. (Psa. 147:2-6) R438:2
LORD be glorified -- We do this for the Lord's glory.
C182; R4150:4, R634:3*, R4524:1, R5215:5; HG502:1
But actually for the good of antichrist; Churchianity; for the
cause of error. R438:2, R4094:6; HG557:6; CR351:2
Like Saul of Tarsus, they thought they did God service.
PD84/97
He -- Christ. R4094:6
Shall appear -- "When he shall appear we shall be like
him." (1 John 3:2) So, then. our opportunity for revenge will
be future, and our revenge will be to do our enemies good.
We will do them so much good that they will be thoroughly
ashamed of what they are doing against us. R5260:5
To your joy -- Every martyr, in proportion to his
faithfulness, will receive a crown of life. PD13/23
They shall be ashamed -- Those teaching errors,
persecuting, slandering, doing evil. R5916:5, R794:5,
R5260:4; PD13/23
Already the world, including the Jews, realize that a great
mistake was made in persecuting Jesus; and, to some extent,
similar transgressions against the faithful followers of Jesus
have been recognized. R5215:5
"Some shall come forth to shame and lasting contempt."
(Dan. 12:2) This contempt will last until there has been a
proper repentance. R5893:3, R5479:3
We should be sympathetic and realize that with our
persecutors it is very much as with the Jews of our Lord's
day-had they known what they were doing they would have
been very much ashamed of their course. R5173:1
Our revenge will come in then-in helping them out of their
meanness and hardness of heart to the blessings then to be
free to all the willing and obedient. HG502:1
Isaiah 66:6
A voice of noise -- Confusion. R1648:6

From the city -- Babylon. R1648:6
A voice -- Of truth and warning. R1648:6
From the temple -- The true Church, The Christ. R1648:6
Recompence -- In the time of trouble. R1649:1
Isaiah 66:7
Before she -- Nominal Zion. R1649:1, R4454:1,

R5574:5
The great composite Christ shall come forth entire, not one
member lacking, before Zion's travail has begun. R5574:6
"Watch ye that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all
those things coming upon the world." (Luke 21:36) The
overcomers escape all the travail of Zion and the wrath of the
world. R184:2, R1649:1
Tavailed -- At the end of this age, before the burning. the
consuming trouble shall come. R5574:5. R1649:1
Deathly anguish, illustrative of the severity of Zion's trouble
and its necessity--without it her children cannot all be born,
delivered. R183:2
The first three plagues, preceding the seven last, we
understand to be the trouble, or travail, of Zion. R183:6
The "winter" time coming when truth and error are both
attacking her. R230:5,1
The ripe wheat of the Gospel Church are to be separated from
the tares and glorified before the burning, consuming trouble
shall come. R1649:1, R5574:5
She brought forth -- "There shall come out of Zion the
Deliverer." (Rom. 11:26) R1649:1
This birth began over 1,800 years ago with the resurrection of
Christ Jesus. R1649:1, R5574:5, R4454:2
Before her pain -- Before the nominal system will be
overthrown. R5574:5
Of a man child -- The Christ, Head and Body. R1649:1,
R230:6, R5574:5; Q116:T, R184:2
Those who obeyed the call, "Come out of her, my people."
(Rev. 18:4) R1649:2
Zion brought forth the Lord, the Head of the Church, eighteen
centuries ago. R184:4. R4454:2, R361:2, R5574:5
This is the man-child that is to bless all the families of the
earth. (Gen. 28:14; Gal 3:16, 29) The birth of the man-child
is the first resurrection. R1649:1
As Joseph who became, through great tribulation of a certain
kind, the ruler of Egypt--a type of Messiah and his glorious
Kingdom. Q116:6
Isaiah 66:8
In one day -- The Millennial day--a day of conversions

and revivals along the lines of the truth and not along the lines
of fear and misrepresentation. D638
A nation -- The Church, the Holy Nation. OV184:6:
R4454:2
The nation of Israel. R1595:1
Israel will be that nation: (1) Spiritual Israel, the "Holy
Nation"; (2) Fleshly Israel, its earthly representative. D638
Be born at once -- Come forth perfect and complete in the
first resurrection. R4454:2; OV185:2, OV184:6,2
Zion -- Christendom, Babylon. R1649:1, R183:2,
R5574:5
Typified by Sarah, and again by Rachel. R4454:1; Q115:5
Travailed -- The anguish of the time of trouble. R1649:2,
R183:2, R184:2
Rachel died in giving birth to Benjamin (son of my pain);
type of the Great Company. Q115:5; R4454:1, R184:4
Nominal Zion will die in her travail pains, and. in dying,
bring forth the Great Company. R5574:5, R1649:4
She brought forth -- The travail upon nominal Zion will
quickly liberate the true children of God still in her. R1649:5
The Great Company coming up to glory through great
tribulation. (Rev. 7:14) R184:2, R1649:2, R5574.6
Her children -- The Great Company, freed from the
nominal Church after the deliverance of the Christ company.
R1649:2, R4454:2, R5574:6, R184:1, R230:6
As Benjamin became a type of the Great Company class who
do not attain to the throne. Q116:T
Isaiah 66:9
Bring to the birth -- Deliver the Head, Christ. R4319:3,

R4454:1
Cause to bring forth -- The Body, the Seed of the Sarah
covenant, in the first resurrection. R4319:3, R4454:1
As surely as the Head was brought forth, so surely shall the
Body also. R5574:6, R4454:2, R1649:1, R369:2, R4319:3
It will be the same resurrection Jesus had that you and I are
invited to share. "That I may know the power of his
resurrection." (Phil. 3:10) CR50:1; R361:2
Isaiah 66:10
Rejoice ye -- The birth of Zion, the exaltation of the Body

of Christ, will indeed be cause for rejoicing on the part of all
people. R1649:4
For, though it will first dash in pieces all their long cherished
hopes, it is the dawn of real hope for all the world. R1649:6,
R5574:4
With Jerusalem -- Following the birth of the Little Flock
and the Great Company will come the birth of the Jewish
nation. R5574:6
The earthly phase of the Kingdom of God. A297
Zion and Jerusalem used here interchangeably. R1649:4
Rejoice -- Fleshly and spiritual Zion will rejoice together.
R5574:6
Because of the exaltation of the Body of Christ to Kingdom
power and glory. R1649:4
Ye that mourn -- That now try to dissuade her from her
course. R1649:6
Not seeing the prize at the end of her faithful self-sacrifice.
R1649:6
Isaiah 66:15
Like a whirlwind -- Symbol of the time of trouble.

R5863:6
With flames of fire -- Judgments, destructive to evil
systems and schemes. R1469:6
The fire of God's jealousy, righteous anger. R5863:6
Isaiah 66:16
By his sword -- The truth. R1469:6, R775:4

Slain of the LORD -- Conquered by the sword of truth.
R1469:6
Shall be many -- Great Babylon, with all her
denominational legions, will be no more. R775:1
But he smites to bless and he wounds to heal. R775:1
Isaiah 66:20
Bring all your brethren -- The Gentiles helping the Jews

in every way to return to their homeland. HG51:4
Israel's deliverance will be accomplished by some concerted
project among the nations. R1343:5
In 1909 the Turkish government invited the Jews of Russia
and Romania to settle in Turkey, agreeing to remove all
restrictions and grant full citizenship to them. R4431:4
Out of all nations -- Now is the Lord's time for the long
promised deliverance of Israel. R1343:4
Upon swift beasts -- Kirkaroth, swaying furnace, a train in
rapid motion. A Jewish proverb says correctly, "When the
railway reaches Jerusalem, Messiah comes." C264, C272;
R615:3
Isaiah 66:22
The new heavens -- The new ecclesiastical powers--the

Church, elect in glory with Christ. HG612:5
And the new earth -- New conditions of human society,
the Kingdom of God. R1343:4
The reorganized social arrangement, wholly different from the
present. HG612:5
Pointing to a time when they are fully established. R896:4
Isaiah 66:23
From one new moon -- From month to month. R1733:1

From one sabbath -- From week to week. R1733:1
It is possible that in the beginning of the Millennial age that
God may restore the Sabbath and various festivals, and even
sacrifices, to teach the world by these as object lessons.
R1732:6
Isaiah 66:24
Upon the carcases -- Not living creatures. HG304:2

Not of billions alive in flames and torture. R2603:2
The dead bodies will be in evidence--not a roasting of souls.
OV167:4; R112:1, R896:1
That have transgressed -- The Jews had a custom of
refusing usual burial to the very vilest criminals, casting their
dead bodies into the Valley of Hinnom with the filth of the
city, indicating that they should be esteemed as the
offscourings of society and that their memory should rot.
HG304:2
Worm shall not die -- Not leave the carcass, but complete
the work of destruction of whatever is cast into the Valley of
Hinnom, symbol of the Second Death. R2603:1, R112:1;
Q766:1
No one quenched the fires in the Valley of Hinnom. and those
carcasses which lodged upon the rocks and did not reach the
fire were consumed by worms without hindrance. HG304:2
There are no immortal worms. R896:1
Fire be quenched -- But burn on until all is consumed.
R2603:1, R111:6
Utter destruction of the Second Death; figure used by our
Lord in Mark 9:48. R896:1
A literal fire which would burn ceaselessly is not conceivable.
R896:1
To insure quick destruction and thorough disinfection,
brimstone is said to have been freely used. HG304:2
And they -- The incorrigible, wilful enemies of
righteousness destroyed in the Millennial age. R2603:2,
R896:4
An abhorring -- All shall see the justice. as well as the
wisdom, of the utter destruction of the incorrigible, wilful
enemies of right. R896:4
Unto all flesh -- Unto all who love righteousness and
justice. R2603:2
Jeremiah
General
About the time of King Josiah and his reformation the
Prophet Jeremiah began to speak in the name of the Lord.
Josiah was succeeded by his son, who proved himself another
bad son of a good father. Under the evil rule of King
Jehoiakim, Jeremiah, under the Lord's guidance, foretold the
coming destruction of the city and Temple. According to
Jeremiah's account it was a time of great moral delinquency.
He pictures a terrible condition of the people. As Jeremiah
told them of the time of trouble nearing, so some of God's
people today are declaring that the greatest time of trouble
ever known in the world's history is probably but a few years
off. All cannot be reformers and prophets to the same extent
as Jeremiah. Every child of God, however, should be a foe to
sin in its every form. Such must be prepared for the finger of
scorn and the lip of sarcasm and slander. R4856:3 The
faithful prophet, Jeremiah, was persecuted because he boldly
declared the word of the Lord which foretold only trouble
upon Israel, and how the government foolishly thought to
avert the trouble by persecuting the Lord's warning
messenger, instead of heeding his wise counsel. In this the
faithful Prophet typified the faithful of the Gospel age who
will also suffer persecution in some shape or form, if they
boldly declare the whole counsel of God. R1372:2
Jeremiah prophesied in the days of Josiah and of his four
successors, Jehoahaz, Jehoiakim, Jehoiachin and Zedekiah.
He was of about the same age as Josiah, and seems not to
have been seriously ill-treated by that reformer; although he
was passed by when the king sought heavenly counsel
respecting the Book of the Law and the turning away of the
penalties for sin therein recorded. Jeremiah's position was a
peculiarly trying one, for although his prophesying evidently
had a marked effect and greatly influenced the king and the
princes and the people in cleansing the land of its idolatry and
in re-establishing the worship of Jehovah, yet he was not
permitted to compliment the people on these measurable
reforms, and to promise them a return of divine favor, as did
the false prophets at that time, and was considered unpatrio-
tic. R2400:1 But he was a patriot in the highest sense of the
word, namely, in that he looked for the highest good of his
nation along the lines of divine wisdom. R4865:3
The captivity of Judah was in two sections: the first
included Daniel and others with the King Jehoiakim. The
king of Babylon left Zedekiah in control as his vassal under
tribute, but on account of the latter's treachery and league
with Egypt, the Babylonian army came again against
Jerusalem and besieged it. Famine and pestilence resulted,
and ultimately the city of Jerusalem was captured and utterly
destroyed, and King Zedekiah, with his eyes put out, was
taken a prisoner to Babylon, with all the people except a few
of the very poorest and least competent. Jeremiah, given his
liberty, chose to remain with the poor of the land who
subsequently went down into Egypt, so that Jerusalem and the
country round about lay desolate without inhabitants for
seventy years, according to the word of the Lord at the mouth
of Jeremiah. R3616:2
Jeremiah 1
Jeremiah 1:1
Words of Jeremiah -- To be read to all the people at the

Temple on the occasion of a general gathering for worship
and repentance. R4857:2
Jeremiah 1:3
End of the 11th year -- The 70 years of desolation began

in the end of the 11th year of Zedekiah. HG47:2
It was here the diadem was removed to "be no more until he
come whose right it is." (Ezek. 21:25-27) HG46:5
Jeremiah 1:5
Before I formed thee -- In the case of Adam, God knew

what man, without experience, would do before he formed
him, and made full provision for his failure. R875:3*
Jeremiah 1:10
I have this day -- A prophecy which belongs to Christ's

Millennial reign. B311
Set thee -- Christ. B311
Claimed by Papists to refer to the Pope. B311
Jeremiah 1:19
To deliver thee -- Not from persecution or even death, but

merely such protection as would prevent his enemies from
hindering the Lord's purpose in him. R1372:2
The Lord does not engage to deliver his children from all the
ills of life; but if faithful unto death, they will have a glorious
deliverance and entrance into the Kingdom. R1372:3
Jeremiah 2
Jeremiah 2:12
O ye heavens -- Powers of spiritual control,

ecclesiasticism. A318; Q841:2
Jeremiah 2:13
Fountain -- Of truth, the Lord's Word. Q841:2

Cisterns -- Receptacles to hold the muddy waters of the
traditions of men. Q841:2
Hold no water -- The old systems are breaking up and are
useless for holding the waters of truth. Q841:2
Jeremiah 2:21
Yet I had -- God. R1795:3

Planted thee -- Nominal fleshly Israel and nominal
A noble vine -- "A certain man planted a vineyard." (Mark
12:1) R1795:3
A strange vine -- Not for any lack of attention on God's
part, but because of the perversity of the vine. R1896:1
Jeremiah 2:35
Thou sayest -- Through emotional revivals, by pointing to

these as evidences that the holy Spirit is still working among
the churches. R3583:1*
Jeremiah 3
Jeremiah 3:8
Had put her away -- Had been previously carried away

captive. (2 Kings 17:1-24) R1372:5
A bill of divorce -- The Lord has not remarried, nor ever
will remarry, the ten tribes. R1341:5; C296
Treacherous sister Judah -- Judah had not profited by the
example of the Lord's displeasure with Israel, nor by the
warnings of his prophets, but had outrivaled her sister in
corruption. R1372:5
Jeremiah 3:14
Married unto you -- Union or covenant between Jehovah

and Israel. R1388:6
Jeremiah 3:17
At that time -- During the Millennial age. D615

Call Jerusalem -- The earthly phase of the Kingdom.
A297
Jeremiah 3:18
Land that I have given -- The gathering of Israel and

Judah to re-establish them in their own land. R2125:1
Jeremiah 3:22
We come unto thee -- When the iron rod has accomplished

the work of destruction. A256
Jeremiah 3:23
Of mountains -- Kingdoms. A318
Jeremiah 4
Jeremiah 4:2
Bless themselves -- In becoming Abraham's seed, in

coming into relationship with the Kingdom, which shall have
an Israelitish basis. R5810:1
Jeremiah 4:4
Circumcise yourselves -- Symbolizing a cutting off, a

separation from the flesh, its aims, hopes and desires.
R3022:3
Jeremiah 4:13
As a whirlwind -- The great time of trouble which follows

the second coming of Christ, sweeping everything before it.
R5863:6; D528
His horses -- See comments on Isaiah 31:1
Jeremiah 4:15
Mount Ephraim -- The governments of Christendom.

D22; R3104:2, R1357:3, R562:2
Jeremiah 4:23
I beheld the earth -- Society. A318

And the heavens -- Powers of spiritual control. A318
Had no light -- Truth. A20
Jeremiah 4:24
Mountains -- Kingdoms. A318

And all the hills -- Less autocratic governments. D551
Jeremiah 4:29
The whole city -- Religious government. D25

For the noise -- The time of trouble. (Jer. 25:31) D20
Of the horsemen -- The great leaders in false doctrines.
(Isa. 31:1) C316
Jeremiah 4:30
With crimson -- Scarlet, symbol of the blood of the

ransom. T34, T109
Ornaments of gold -- Symbol of the divine nature. T18
Jeremiah 4:31
Daughter of Zion -- The nominal church. D23
Jeremiah 5
Jeremiah 5:31
My people -- God's professed people, the nominal church.

R1137:5
Love to have it so -- Take pride in their growing
denominational strength. R1137:5
Jeremiah 6
Jeremiah 6:2
Daughter of Zion -- The nominal church. D23

Jeremiah 6:12
With their fields -- Of labor. C157

And wives -- Churches. C157
Jeremiah 6:14
Peace, peace -- The whole world boasts that civilization

and Christianity have won the day, that the world has become
God's empire and the blessings of the Millennium are ours to
enjoy. R4795:3
As at the World Parliament of Religions, it is merely a stroke
of human policy to try to quiet the fears of the church. D238
As at the opening of the Kiel ship canal, where 120 ironclads
participated. D156
As at the First National Arbitration Board, convened at
Geneva, Switzerland, Sept. 14, 1872. R5554:1
Ever since the first peace conference at The Hague the church
systems have been declaring that war has come to an end.
Q529:2
Their theory has been that universal peace between the
nations would speedily usher in the Messianic Kingdom.
R5554:2
There can be no true peace as long as there is sin; for sin is
the great difficulty with the world. Q529:2
The Lord will raise up other servants who will not seek to
please the ear with soft words, nor to lull the drowsy, but will
proclaim the unvarnished truth concerning hypocrisy and
deception. R563:3
Jeremiah 6:16
Ask for -- If our ways are not in harmony with those of

God. R705:6*
This is the appropriate lesson for each of us, to come to the
Bible afresh, to hear its message. SM543:1
The old paths -- Not the theories of the Dark Ages; not
Higher Criticism, Evolution, Theosophy, etc.; but the
doctrines of Jesus and the apostles. SM302:1, SM543:1;
E62
The finding of the Word began afresh with the introduction of
the art of printing. R3609:4
The doctrines older than Wesley, Calvinism or Roman
Catholicism--the doctrines of Jesus and the apostles and
prophets. HG433:5
For example, celebrating the Memorial Supper upon its
anniversary. R1943:2, R2115:2
As the "old paths" are found, pompous human titles which
seem so much to the world and to Babylon come to appear
vain, inappropriate and deceitful. R2826:2
Jeremiah 6:17
Watchmen -- The prophets and others. R1795:6

Of the trumpet -- Let the trumpet give no uncertain sound.
(1 Cor. 14:8) R309:1*
The trumpet is to sound until a company shall be developed
who will be the virgins, the companions of the Bride. (Psa.
45:14) R309:1*
Jeremiah 6:19
Hear, O earth -- Society. A318

I will bring evil -- Prophetic of the siege of Jerusalem after
Jesus' death. R2787:3
Jeremiah 6:20
Incense -- Representing praise. R3703:4
Jeremiah 6:23
Like the sea -- The restless, turbulent, dissatisfied masses

of the world. A318
Ride upon horses -- Doctrines. C316
Jeremiah 7
Jeremiah 7:3
Amend your ways -- If our ways are not right they should
be amended and not justified, saying, It is my way. R2204:4,
R705:3
Jeremiah 7:4
Temple of the LORD -- The Christ. T70

Jeremiah 7:9
Unto Baal -- To whom were offered human sacrifices.

D24
After other gods -- Corrupting the Israelites by contact
with them. D24
Jeremiah 7:18
Provoke me to anger -- The idolatrous tendencies of that

nation brought divine wrath upon them and sent them into
captivity to Babylon. R5125:1
Jeremiah 7:25
I have even sent unto you -- God was continually

reminding them of their unfaithfulness. R1365:4
During the Millennial age it will no longer be necessary to be
always preaching "know the Lord." R1365:5
Jeremiah 7:26
Hardened their neck -- A figure taken from the stiffness

of neck of an unruly yoke of oxen. R3464:1
Jeremiah 7:31
Tophet -- Later called Gehenna, the valley of Hinnom.

PD63/73
Used as a type of the real Gehenna, or lake of fire,
unquenchable till its work is done. R1449:5*
A place for the offerings or sacrifices of persons in idolatrous
worship. R1449:5*
The valley of Hinnom was first established under demon
influence as a place of torture; but Israel made it a crematory
for the carcases of dead animals and the bodies of certain vile
criminals and it thus became a symbol of the Second Death.
R3069:1
Burn their sons -- The image of Moloch was erected there
and children were roasted alive in the arms of the image.
R3069:1; PD63/73
Neither came it -- The doctrine of everlasting torture is
contrary to every element of divine character. R5326:6
Under the Lord's arrangement no torture was permitted in
Israel. R3069:1
For centuries the masses of Christendom have attributed to
the God of love a character far worse than that of Moloch.
R3069:1
Jeremiah 8
Jeremiah 8:7
Not the judgment -- Arrangement, dealings. C157;

R230:5
Of the LORD -- That this harvest day of full, complete
separation of wheat from chaff and tares must come; in this
they show less discernment than the migratory fowls. C157
Jeremiah 8:8
How do ye say -- How can you say, when you cannot

discern the harvest time and the change of dispensation then
due. C157
Is in vain -- Because the Word of the Lord by his prophets
and apostles is made void and set aside without attention.
The creeds formed in the Dark Ages are the lightless lanterns
of them that walk in darkness. C157
Jeremiah 8:9
The wise men -- Those learned in the wisdom of this

world. C157
They are dismayed -- Disheartened by the failure of their
cherished human schemes. C157
And taken -- Caught. C157
Jeremiah 8:10
Will I give their wives -- Their churches. C157

And their fields -- Of labor. C157
To them -- To the conquerors. C157
For every one -- Of them. C157
To covetousness -- "They are greedy dogs, which can
never have enough." (Isa. 56:11) C157
From the prophet -- Orator. C157
Unto the priest -- Minister. C157
Dealeth falsely -- Practiseth falsehood: "For we have made
lies our refuge, and under falsehood have we hid ourselves."
(Isa. 28:15) C157
Jeremiah 8:11
Healed the hurt -- The sore. C157

In the days of Luther and the Reformation, when the
daughters might have been radically healed. R498:5
Of the daughter -- Nominal Zion, Babylon. C157
There is no peace -- Her whole system is diseased and
needs thorough cleansing with the medicine of God's Word,
the truth. C157
Jeremiah 8:12
Were they -- They should have been. C157

Abomination -- Their abominable work. C157
Shall they -- The teachers. C157
Their visitation -- Or inspection, in the harvest. C157
Shall be cast down -- They shall stumble. C157
"But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should
overtake you as a thief." (1 Thess. 5:4) C215
Jeremiah 8:13
Consume them -- Make an end of them. C157

There shall be -- There shall be left. C158
Shall fade -- Shall wither. C158
And the things -- All divine favors and privileges. C158
Jeremiah 8:14
The defenced cities -- Governments. C158

Water of gall -- Bitter poison-water, the poison of bitter
error, the "doctrine of devils" mingled with the pure water of
life, the truth of God's Word. C158
Jeremiah 8:15
We looked for peace -- Anticipating that our bitter poison-water

doctrines would convert the world and bring about the Millennium. C158
And behold trouble -- The disease of nominal Zion will
grow rapidly worse as the Israelites indeed withdraw. C158
Jeremiah 8:16
Of his horses -- Doctrines. C316

The city -- Babylon, Christendom. D527
Jeremiah 8:19
The LORD in Zion -- Nominal Zion, Babylon, is spewed

out of his mouth. C157; R498:4
Provoked me to anger -- Love can be justly provoked to
anger. R5978:6, R5603:2
His anger is righteous indignation against sin. R5603:1,
R5978:6
God's indignation was kindled against his chosen people.
R5603:2
Strange vanities -- Infidelity sits in the pews, declaims
from the pulpits, rules in the assemblies; and, together with
Agnosticism and Evolution, these strike against the very
foundation doctrines of Christianity--the fall of man and his
redemption through Christ. R1690:5
Jeremiah 8:20
The harvest is past -- We did not do the Lord's will.

R4079:5*
They realize they have failed to make their calling and
election sure to a place in the kingdom class. R2837:3
Nominal Zion might have been healed once, but now it is too
late to reform the sects. R731:4
Summer is ended -- "Pray ye that your flight be not in the
winter" with the tribulation class (Matt. 24:20). Escape from
Babylon before the winter time of her trouble comes upon
her. D578
We are not saved -- A class who would realize that the
Bride has been taken and that they are left; at the fall of
Babylon. (Rev. 19) Q229:2
Jeremiah 8:22
No balm in Gilead -- None of the human remedies

proposed will cure the malady of human depravity. D469
Consolation of wounded spirits on the battlefield of life.
R5803:1
Babylon might have been healed once, but now, like her
prototype Israel, she is given up--left desolate. R731:4
No physician there -- There is no remedy, these systems
must die. The disorder comes from within. Though the
canker is carefully concealed, the bad odor and distress are
noticeable. R498:5
With the harvest ended those then in Zion will have lost the
"especial" salvation, the prize of being made the heavenly
Zion. R230:5
Jeremiah 9
Jeremiah 9:23
Glory in his wisdom -- Worldly wisdom tends to self-exaltation

and pride. R1919:3
Glory in his might -- Power in the hands of the ungodly
tends to haughtiness and overbearing selfishness. R1919:3
Glory in his riches -- Riches only tend to dwarf the soul
among those who have not learned from God the
responsibilities of stewardship. R1919:3
Jeremiah 9:24
Glory in this -- "My soul shall make her boast in the

Lord." (Psa. 34:2) R1920:1
This exhortation should inspire unbounded confidence and
bring lasting comfort to those who honor and love him.
R1351:4*
Knoweth me -- The beginning of this wisdom is indeed the
reverence of the Lord. This is the knowledge that does not
puff up. R1919:6
Let our entire trust be centered in God; his promises will not
fail. R5501:5
"This is eternal life that they might know thee, the only true
God." (John 17:3) R1919:6
Jeremiah 10
Jeremiah 10:10
At his wrath -- The word of the Lord to the nations

assembled before him for judgment. D12
The earth -- The present organization of society. C229;
D46; A323
Jeremiah 10:11
The gods -- Mighty ones; a general name, often and

properly applied to our Heavenly Father, as well as to Jesus,
angels and men. R338:2, R421:3
Jeremiah 10:13
Uttereth his voice -- God makes use of different agencies

to do his service. These are sometimes animate, sometimes
inanimate. R5385:3
Jeremiah 10:16
Is the rod -- A symbol of authority. R4058:4
Jeremiah 10:23
Not in himself -- It is not in the power of man to direct his

own steps, but the child of God has learned where to seek
counsel. R1753:1
Jeremiah 10:25
Eaten up Jacob -- Natural Israel. A300
Jeremiah 11
Jeremiah 11:5
Flowing with milk -- It is believed that Jerusalem will

become, as of old, the marketplace of the Orient. HG649:2
Jeremiah 11:16
Branches...are broken -- "Because of unbelief they were

broken off." (Rom. 11:20) D651
Jeremiah 12
Jeremiah 12:5
Swelling of Jordan -- Meaning "judged down,"

"condemned," representing the curse. R3086:4
Jeremiah 12:9
Speckled bird -- The saints. R5974:6

A target for the world's sneers and ridicule. R132:1
Especially attractive to the hunter, the great Adversary.
R5974:6
Birds round about -- Mankind. R5974:6
Jeremiah 12:15
Have compassion -- These promises are yet in the future.

R515:6*
Jeremiah 13
Jeremiah 13:5
Hid it -- Accompanying signs were common with the

prophets of olden time. R2223:4
Jeremiah 13:14
I will dash them -- Complete destruction of present evil,

unjust and oppressive governments and institutions. R362:1
Jeremiah 13:23
Change his skin -- The differences between the races of

men have long been arguments against the solidarity of the
human family. God can change the Ethiopian's skin in his
own due time. R3320:5
The Ethiopian eunuch, to whom Philip was sent with the
message of salvation, was unquestionably a black man.
R3043:1
Jeremiah 14
Jeremiah 14:4
No rain in the earth -- There are now rains in the holy

land; the plowmen are no more ashamed. R1297:5*
Jeremiah 15
Jeremiah 15:1
Could not be -- Could not be changed. Jeremiah was

esteemed a pessimist, and we are now placed in much the
same position. R2400:2
Jeremiah 15:16
Thy words -- Those truths which God designed should,

during this Gospel age, be the food to sanctify the Body of
Christ. R200:4
Were found -- Implying first that the Word of the Lord
would be lost and need to be searched for; and secondly,
when found, it would avail nothing unless appropriated to our
needs. R3609:2
Not only obeying the divine will, but seeking to know it more
and more so that one can obey it. R5648:4
Not gained by human skill or labor. R1867:5
After he has found it, every child of God has considerable
labor in proving and eating his spiritual food. R1867:6
I did eat them -- Diligently appropriated them to the
building up of my character. R2146:5, R200:4, R1867:5
We must eat the Word of God if we would derive his spirit.
E225
There must be a daily laying up of its treasure of wisdom and
counsel in the heart and the working out of its principles in
the life. R2093:5, R1867:5, R2146:5, R5431:6
Living upon the divine promises. R3087:2
"Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that
proceedeth out of the mouth of God." (Matt. 4:4) R3087:2
Rejoicing of mine heart -- The language of the heart must
be expressed in daily life. R1274:5
Jeremiah 16
Jeremiah 16:9
Out of this place -- Scattered and persecuted among all

nations. B216
Jeremiah 16:13
Will I cast -- In chastening, correcting, forgiving, restoring

and promising to bless and fully reinstate them to his favor,
God illustrates his great love and mercy toward the whole
world. R1373:4
Out of this land -- This was to be their punishment, to be
driven out of their own land and to receive no favor from
God. R599:3, R4782:2
Into a land -- Europe. R1378:6
Nor your fathers -- Their fathers had been in Egypt and
Babylon, but never in Europe. R1378:6
This prophecy positively marks Israel's present dispersion
among all nations. B217
Serve other gods -- Other rulers, elohim, mighty ones.
B216; R421:3, R599:3, R1378:6, R1410:3
Not shew you favour -- The Jews have been shown no
favor since their rejection of Christ. B216; OV75:5;
R1364:6
They will not forever remain cast off, but shall be regathered
and blessed. R1378:6
Jeremiah 16:14
The days come -- Favor would return again in some form

to the Jew in 1878. R357:1, R1364:6
No more be said -- The hand of providence is about to
work out such a deliverance as Israel never knew before.
R1405:6, R1652:2, R1063:2*
The land of Egypt -- The deliverance from Egypt was a
great and marvelous sign of God's favor to them; but their
deliverance soon to be consummated will quite eclipse it.
R599:3, R608:4, R384:6
That deliverance was but a type of the one to come. R1652:4
Jeremiah 16:15
Land of the north -- Russia, where nearly half of the

Hebrew race resides. B217; D553; R599:3, R608:4;
OV76:1
From all the lands -- Their later blessing would be their
regathering out of all nations, and is being accomplished in
our day. R4782:2, R1374:1
Bring them again -- We have strong testimonies of God
through the prophets that he will gather them again. OV76:1
The hope of the world's peace being cemented by the Jews
occupying the lands of their fathers. R83:6*
Jeremiah 16:16
For many fishers -- The Zionist movement. R3855:1-3,

R1288:2*
Teachers. C215
Shall hunt them -- Persecution by revolutionaries,
forceable expulsion. R3855:2, R1288:4*
From every mountain -- Kingdom. A318
Jeremiah 16:18
And first -- Before the time of favor will come. B218;

R599:4
Recompense -- Some of the recompense with favor, and
some without favor. SM399:2; CR104:5
Their sin double -- Mishneh, a second portion, a
repetition; implying a casting off from all favor for as long a
period as they had enjoyed favor, namely, 1845 years, from
AD33 to 1878, when the Berlin Congress of Nations was
held, which greatly ameliorated the conditions of the Jews.
B218; CR104:4; R599:4, R1202:1; HG53:4
The double's being accomplished is the reason for the great
awakening among the Jews and for the Zionist movement.
R5920:6
"Even today do I declare that I will render double unto thee."
(Zech. 9:12) "She hath received of the Lord's hand double for
all her sins." (Isa. 40:2) B225, B227
The double of Israel's experiences would reach full
accomplishment in 1915. R4623:1
Jeremiah 16:19
Gentiles -- As well as the Jews. A59

Jeremiah 17
Jeremiah 17:5
Maketh flesh his arm -- Illustrated by David's numbering

of Israel contrary to the law of God. (1 Chron. 21) R2016:3
Jeremiah 17:9
The heart -- The natural affections; the natural mind.

F600; R1985:1, R2038:1, R2762:2, R3735:3, R2445:1
Is deceitful -- It requires constant watching and purging. If
it is wrong the head will seek to justify it and thus pervert
judgment and truth. R2038:2
The various members of our bodies, in their depravity,
sympathize with the natural mind and favor it. R1985:1
At times misleads the New Creature, the new will, the new
heart. R2762:2
The Lord's followers should daily, hourly, keep watch over
their thoughts, words, deeds and motives. R4524:1
Those who practice evil speaking and evil surmising and
attempt to justify their conduct have either never entered the
school of Christ or are infants therein. R5123:1, R2445:1
Jeremiah 17:14
LORD -- "Jehovah" is the original word wherever

"LORD" is spelled in small capital letters throughout the
common version of the Old Testament. R3438:2
Jeremiah 17:24
The sabbath day -- Type of the Millennial age. B40

Jeremiah 19
Jeremiah 19:2
Hinnom -- Gehenna. Evil spirits led the people of Canaan

to establish the valley of Hinnom as a place of torture.
R3069:1
Jeremiah 19:3
I will bring evil -- Calamity. R1226:2
Jeremiah 19:5
High places of Baal -- Corrupting the Israelites by contact

with them. D24
Into my mind -- The doctrine of everlasting torture is
contrary to every element of God's character. R5326:6
Jeremiah 19:6
Hinnom -- Or Gehenna, a type of the real Gehenna, or lake

of fire, unquenchable till its work is done. R1449:5*
In Greek, Gehenna, Second Death. R3069:1
Jeremiah 19:7
Carcases -- No torture was permitted; not the living, but

the dead, were consumed in Gehenna. R3069:1
Jeremiah 19:15
Hardened their necks -- A figure taken from the stiffness

of neck of an unruly yoke of bullocks. R3464:1
Jeremiah 20
Jeremiah 20:8
Word of the LORD -- Concerning Israel. R5489:1

A reproach -- Despised and rejected. R5489:2
Jeremiah 20:9
Nor speak any more -- He had become disheartened.

R5489:2
If he had allowed his fears to overwhelm him and had
withheld God's message, he would have been set aside and
another commissioned to deliver the message. So it is with us
today. R5489:3
His word -- Telling them that they had failed to keep their
covenant with the Lord and would surely be carried away into
captivity. R5489:2
Our message is the overthrow of the kingdom of darkness and
the establishment of the Kingdom of God. R5489:5
In mine heart -- God has let us into the secret of his
counsels. R5489:3
As a burning fire -- Burning zeal in his heart, a consuming
sense of the importance of the message given him to deliver.
R5489:1
All of the Lord's people filled with his spirit must be engaged
in the harvest work in some manner. R2490:5
Shut up -- If kept shut off from a draft the fire will become
extinguished. "Quench not the spirit." (1 Thess. 5:19)
R5489:3
I could not stay -- His message had to be spoken; he
overcame the temptation to hold his peace. R5489:2
He could not quench the fire within his soul, withholding
God's message, without losing his relationship to Jehovah.
R5489:3
We might let the holy Spirit of God die out in our hearts by a
failure to do our duty. R5489:3
Jeremiah 20:11
Greatly ashamed -- The only standard of judgment in

public sentiment in the Millennium will be character.
R1655:2
Everlasting confusion -- "Some shall awake to everlasting
contempt." (Dan. 12:2) R1655:1
Jeremiah 21
Jeremiah 21:10
For evil -- The evil the Lord creates and does is the
calamities and judgments that he visits upon the ungodly
nations. R1299:6*
Jeremiah 22
Jeremiah 22:24
Though Coniah -- Called also Jehoiachin and Jekoniah.

E132
Jeremiah 22:30
No man of his seed -- If Christ were the son of Joseph this

prophecy would be false. R468:1*
Messiah was of Nathan's line, not Solomon's. E133
Throne of David -- Only the legal heirship came through
Solomon, through Joseph, the legal father of Jesus, as shown
in Matthew 1. R2060:4
Jeremiah 23
Jeremiah 23:1
Pastors that destroy -- A self-constituted "clergy" lording

it over God's heritage, taking spoils, honors, reverence, titles,
from their flocks. R1895:6
Sheep of my pasture -- Characteristics of sheep are
meekness, docility, lack of self-confidence, and obedience to
the shepherd--traits which we should manifest. R5491:4
True sheep respond quickly to the shepherd's call and watch
for his guidance. R5491:4
A fitting emblem of the kind of characters the Heavenly
Father is seeking. R5491:4
Let us, as good sheep, not stray from the green pastures and
pure waters. R5491:4
Jeremiah 23:2
Scattered my flock -- To feed the flock is the Lord's

province. The chosen elder may be the instrument through
whom the Great Shepherd sends his own their "meat in due
season." F283
Elders need first to watch themselves lest they assume
authority and honors belonging to the Chief Shepherd. F283
Jeremiah 23:4
Shall feed them --The Shepherd has been feeding us

wonderfully. R633:4
Jeremiah 23:5
The days come -- In due time God's Kingdom, founded on

equity and justice, must fill the entire earth. R1213:5*
A righteous Branch -- Solomon's royal branch is the high
branch of the Davidic line. This must be abased and a low
branch exalted. R468:4*
Exalting Nathan's line, not Solomon's. E133
The prophets foretold that Messiah was to be the son of Jesse
and of David; and the glorified Jesus himself declares, "I am
the root and the offspring of David." (Rev. 22:16) R944:1*
Christ was the Root of David's family, as well as the Branch.
(Isa. 11:10) R1063:1*
Jeremiah 23:6
His name whereby he -- The Body of the great Prophet,

Priest and King, the Church, will be part of the Everlasting
Father. T102
THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS -- Jehovah--Tsidkenu, our Righteousness
of Jehovah. The Church is to share this title. (Jer. 33:16) E42;
T102; R3970:5, R4831:2, R4913:3
"That we might be made the righteousness of God through
him." (2 Cor. 5:21) R4913:3
The righteous one imparts righteous life--the power which
embodies righteous words in righteous deeds. R1323:1*
Jeremiah 23:15
Water of gall -- Bitter poison-water, the poison of bitter

error, the doctrine of devils, mingled with the pure water of
life, the truth of God's Word. C158
Jeremiah 23:16
Prophets -- False teachers. R1715:4

Heads and pastors of worldly organizations, claiming the
name of Christ yet refusing his headship, leading and control,
and the teachings of his Word. R365:4
Of their own heart -- There are many such false teachers
who are ambitious to declare the visions of their own heart.
R1715:4
Jeremiah 23:19
A whirlwind -- When God lets go his restraint on the

"powers of the air" (Eph. 2:2), the evil spirits, these symbolic
winds will produce a great cataclysm, sweeping everything
before it. R5470:1, R5863:6
Symbol of the time of trouble. D528
Jeremiah 23:21
Not sent these prophets -- "There were false teachers also

among the people." (2 Pet. 2:1) R265:4, R365:4
See also comments on Jer. 23:16
Yet they prophesied -- By an inspiration, or power, in
them, almost like the real prophets of God. These were the
counterfeits. R265:4
Jeremiah 23:28
That hath a dream -- An imagination. SM671:1;

OV411:T, CR343:3
Possibly caused by indigestion or inspired by evil spirits.
R3277:6
When a man does not see a thing himself he is very apt to
conclude that nobody else sees it. HG353:2
If a dream corroborates a plain statement of the Word it may
be used as we would use a type, to illustrate but not to teach a
doctrine. R3971:6
"If they speak not in harmony with the Word of God, it is
because there is no light in them." (Isa. 8:20) R3278:1
Tell a dream -- Many are teaching their own or their
forefathers' imaginings; which the faithful are obliged to
contradict as unscriptural. OV158:4; R2400:3
He that hath my word -- The Lord's Word, his revelation,
his inspired testimony, is to be put far above all dreams of our
own and of others. R3971:6
All are authorized to teach his Word who know his Word.
CR343:3
People are awakening to the difference between dreams and
realities and are wanting something more substantial.
R3757:3
Let him speak -- With the Gospel itself went the right and
the authority to declare it. R2966:4
If we hold back for fear of man we would be sharing in the
sin of adding to the Scriptures. OV411:T, SM671:1
My word faithfully -- Not uncertainly, doubtfully; but as
the oracles of God. R1882:6
Not human speculations, philosophies and fanciful dreams.
R3726:6, R2400:2, R3945:1
All authority to speak in the name of God must come from
him. OV158:4; R2966:4
God's Book makes no division of his people into clergy and
laity. HG617:4
Let him speak only my Word faithfully. R1633:5
In as kind a manner as possible, but not shunning to declare
the "whole counsel of God." (Acts 20:26,27) SM404:2
Jeremiah 24
Jeremiah 24:5
Of the Chaideans -- Mystic Babylon, Christendom. For

since their overthrow they have been dispersed among all the
nations of so-called Christendom. C259
For their good -- For their discipline and punishments--good
thing in disguise. C259
Jeremiah 24:6
For I will -- During the Millennial age. A109

Bring them again -- This is a deliverance which will need
no repetition. R1483:5
Not pluck them up -- This cannot refer to the return from
the captivity to literal Babylon, since after that return they
were again pulled down and plucked up. OV226:3; C259;
A109
Jeremiah 25
Jeremiah 25:9
Nebuchadnezzar -- Unlike Cyrus, Nebuchadnezzar

thought to unify the people by compelling worship of one
God. R2509:5
Bring them against -- Verses 8 to 38 are a vivid
description of the great time of trouble. R5735:4
Utterly destroy -- Pointing to total desolation, not
captivity. Such was not the case prior to Zedekiah's
dethronement. R3437:3
Perpetual -- Here the 70 years of desolation are olam,
lasting. R3725:5*
Jeremiah 25:11
A desolation -- The 70 years desolation of the land.

R1372:5, R1976:1
Punishment upon the Israelites; substitute for the whole
number of Jubilee years. PD48/59
The seven times of Israel's chastisement began in 606 BC
with the foretold desolation and continued until about Sept.
21, 1914. Q356:2
Seventy years -- Scripturally declared as a punishment
upon the Israelites for not properly keeping their Jubilee
years. PD48/59
Nineteen for the Jubilees imperfectly observed (950 years)
and 51 additional at 49 years each (2499 years), from the last
Jubilee to earth's Great Jubilee, the Times of Restitution, 1874
AD. "Then shall the land enjoy her sabbaths, as long as it
lieth desolate." (Lev. 26:34) B191-196; PD48/59
Jeremiah 25:12
Seventy years -- From the destruction of Jerusalem to the

time of the return of its inhabitants. (Compare Jer. 29:10 with
2 Chron. 36:22, 23) R4893:1
Punish the king -- Through King Cyrus as the divine
agent. R2509:4
Jeremiah 25:15
Cup of this fury -- The time of trouble, which is daily

increasing in volume and intensity. R1561:6, R5769:4
All the nations -- More and more, all the nations are being
dragged into it. R5790:3
Jeremiah 25:26
All the kingdoms -- No trouble that has ever yet come

upon the world answers to the many prophetic descriptions of
this one and none has ever yet involved all nations. R1371:5
King of Sheshach -- Babylon, Christendom. R2663:3,
R1371:6
Drink after them -- Be the last to fall in the great time of
trouble. R2663:1, R1371:3, R1561:6; HG94:1
Suffering more severely than the heathen nations because she
has sinned against greater light. R2663:3
Jeremiah 25:27
And fall -- In the time of trouble. R1561:6
Jeremiah 25:28
Certainly drink -- Of the cup of wrath, which will mean

their utter destruction. R2338:5, R2663:2
Jeremiah 25:29
Evil on the city -- Christendom, Babylon. D527

The evil the Lord creates is the calamities he visits on the
ungodly nations. R1299:6*, R2663:2
Jeremiah 25:30
Roar from on high -- Call aloud from on high. D527

His holy habitation -- Over his nominal habitation,
Christendom. D527
Jeremiah 25:31
Controversy -- The great time of trouble spoken of by

Daniel and our Lord. R1371:3, R438:1; D20
He will plead with -- He holdeth judgment over. D527
Jeremiah 25:32
Nation to nation -- Nations, because of close

communication, are dependent upon one another. What
affects one affects all. R4750:3
A great whirlwind -- Intense and complicated trouble and
commotion. D13, D527; R1519:4, R534:6
The great time of anarchy. R5845:6
The result of letting loose "the four winds of heaven." (Rev.
7:1-4) R5058:6, R5470:1
Coasts -- The outward parts; society being encroached
upon by the lawless element (sea). R4750:3, R2663:1
Jeremiah 25:33
The slain of the LORD -- As the "old world" ended with

the almost entire destruction of individual life, so national life
is to be destroyed in the end of this world. HG18:2
Jeremiah 25:34
Howl, ye shepherds -- Pastors of nominal Christendom, at

the spoilation of their pasture fields. R2663:4
Ye shall fall -- And be ruined. R2663:4
Jeremiah 25:35
No way to flee -- Hireling shepherds are ready to flee the

trouble and avoid persecution. R2673:4
Jeremiah 26
Jeremiah 26:3
The evil, which I purpose -- The evil that the Lord creates
and does is the calamities and judgments that he visits upon
ungodly nations. R1299:6*
Jeremiah 26:11
The priests -- Nearly all the persecutions of Jesus and his

followers came from professed servants of God. R4857:1
Jeremiah 26:16
The princes -- But for the moderation of the civil power

many a reformer would have been put to death. R4857:4
Jeremiah 27
Jeremiah 27:9
Hearken not -- We are not to permit any of these false

prophets to have any influence over us. R5800:2
Jeremiah 29
Jeremiah 29:5
Build ye houses -- Because your captivity will be 70 years

long, much longer than you have ever before experienced.
C294; R1341:3
Jeremiah 29:9
Prophesy falsely -- God warns us against having anything

to do with these occult powers. R5800:1
Jeremiah 29:10
Seventy years -- In the first year of his reign I, Daniel,

understood by books the number of the years whereby the
Word of the Lord came to Jeremiah the prophet, that he
would accomplish seventy years in the destruction of
Jerusalem. (Dan. 9:2) B64
"Till the land had enjoyed her sabbaths" (Lev. 26:34): 19 for
the Jubilees imperfectly observed and 51 for the cycles in
which no Jubilees were observed, ending in 1874 AD. B191
See also comments on Jer. 25:11, 12.
Jeremiah 29:13
And find me -- When the Gospel Church is complete Israel

shall be saved from their blindness and obtain mercy at the
hands of glorified spiritual Israel. R2402:5
Jeremiah 29:18
An hissing -- They have been outcasts from God's favor.

OV76:1
They themselves say that God has shown them no favor.
R599:2
Jeremiah 30
Jeremiah 30:2
Write thee -- The prophets did not confine themselves to

oral teachings. R1145:3
The writings of the prophets collectively were termed "The
Law and The Prophets" and esteemed as of divine authority.
R1145:3
Jeremiah 30:7
Jacob's trouble -- Here are a number of events: the return

of the Jews to Palestine; the reorganization of the Jewish
nation, though not independent; the gathering of great wealth
to Jerusalem; many peoples go up to "take a spoil"; the "battle
of the great day"; the partial success of the invaders; the
power of Messiah effecting deliverance; the recognition of the
long-awaited Messiah; then the recognition of him as the one
they rejected; God pouring on them the "spirit of grace and
supplication"; their mourning for sins and being accepted to
fellowship again with God. These events we expect in about
the order mentioned. R26:6
Spring has come, the fig tree is "putting forth"; yet we must
look for more storms, as in nature the Spring equinoxial storm
is one of the most severe. R384:2
The famine for the Word of the Lord shall reach Israel and
cause them to come to the great Governor for bread. This
will be the time of "Jacob's trouble." R3982:2
We have reached this period. (1882) R341:5*
We are in the "time of Jacob's trouble." (1895) R1898:5
Jacob's trouble is not yet (1898) ended. Greater persecution
will shortly overtake them--to drive them to Palestine.
R2290:1
The final conflict of the Battle of the Great Day will be in
Palestine, upon regathered Israel. D554, Dxvi; SM239:3;
OV276:5
In conjunction with a world-wide trouble--financial, religious,
political and social, eventuating in anarchy. OV67:1;
R2504:1
The time for the special manifestation of God's favor will be
in that dark hour when Israel will recognize their King.
SM425:4; R5442:6
The Gospel Church having first been completed. SM425:4
Saved out of it -- In the midst of the trouble God will
reveal himself as Israel's defender, as in ancient times. D555
All the prophets testify that the power of God will be so
marvelously manifested in Israel's deliverance that all the
world will know that the Lord's favor is again with Israel.
D557; OV75:4
In and through that trouble the Lord will pour upon Israel the
spirit of grace and supplication and they shall look upon him
whom they have pierced. (Zech. 12:10) SM426:T
The end of Jacob's trouble is the deliverance of Israel from
the blindness that has been upon her. R3469:1
The coming deliverance is mentioned particularly in Zech.
14:1-4. R3469:2
The Ancient Worthies, as judges and lawgivers, will be
restored to them. R4320:5
Natural Israel will obtain mercy through spiritual Israel.
R3982:2
Jeremiah 30:8
Burst thy bonds -- Natural Israel, whose favor ceased

when ours began and whose favor is to return when ours has
accomplished its purpose. R2290:1
Jeremiah 30:18
I will bring again -- "The Lord shall save the tents of

Judah first." (Zech. 12:7) A294
Of Jacob's tents -- Fleshly Israel. A294
And the city -- Jerusalem. C259
And the palace -- The Temple. C259
"I will restore thy judges as at the first, and thy counselors as
at the beginning." (Isaiah 1:26) A294
Jeremiah 30:23
The whirlwind -- The time of trouble. D528; R5863:6

Letting loose of the four winds, or air powers; resulting in the
overthrow of the social order in anarchy. R5470:1, R5845:6
Also likened to a great tidal wave (Psa. 46); letting loose the
"four winds of earth" (Rev. 7) and a "great fire." (2 Pet. 3)
R5863:6
See also comments on Jer. 23:19 and Jer. 25:32.
Jeremiah 31
Jeremiah 31:7
For Jacob -- Natural Israel. A300
Jeremiah 31:8
The north country -- Russia, where nearly two-thirds of

all the Jews now living reside. C259
Jeremiah 31:9
With weeping -- Bitterness against Israel will cause the

"remnants of Israel" to be expelled from various nations.
R1898:5
Jeremiah 31:10
Will gather him -- Confirms the assurance of God's

returning favor to fleshly Israel. R1364:5
Jeremiah 31:14
Shall be satisfied -- The perfect man will not understand

the spiritual glory; he will be absorbed with the glory that
surrounds him on the human plane. R613:2
Jeremiah 31:15
Bitter weeping -- Sorrow for the dead is not a sign of

weakness; rather, a sign of love and sympathy. OV212:9
Rachel weeping -- Prophecy of the slaughter of the infants
in Bethlehem. R1681:6
They were not -- They were dead, unconscious. "The
dead know not anything." (Eccl. 9:5) Q766:3; R3436:4
Jeremiah 31:16
Thus saith the LORD -- This is the word of the Lord,

which cannot be broken. OV212:8
Shall be rewarded -- The labor of parents endeavoring
properly to rear their children is not lost. OV212:7,
OV217:1
Shall come again -- Restored to life; not all at once, but
gradually in the resurrection. OV212:5, OV213:3, OV216:1
Land of the enemy -- The great enemy, death. CR430:2;
OV85:1, OV214:6; R2063:4; Q830:2
The place to which all alike go--from the sinner of three-score
and ten, to the little one of two years old and under. R822:5*
While Satan has the "power of death" (Heb. 2:14), it is a
subordinate power which he grasped as an usurper. R452:4*
"The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death." (1 Cor.
15:26) OV214:6, OV212:6
Jeremiah 31:22
Compass a man -- How marvellously Christ fills the

picture here. R350:1*
Jeremiah 31:27
House of Israel -- The entire passage, verses 27 to 40, is

for the Jew, natural Israel. R4586:2
House of Judah -- The object in mentioning both is to
prevent any from getting the idea that only the ten tribes
would be blessed in the future. R1364:5
Seed of man, and...beast -- Israel to be replenished with
man and beast indicates New covenant entirely earthly.
R4530:4*
Jeremiah 31:28
Shall come to pass -- In the Millennial, or Restitution, day.

A109
And to afflict -- Ever since Jesus rejected Israel they have
been under divine displeasure. The faithful performance of
the evil part of the promise is an assurance of the ultimate
blessings. R1364:6
Watch over them -- The Jewish people. A109
To build, and to plant -- They shall be firmly planted in
their everlasting possession. R1483:5
This is a deliverance that will need no repetition. R1483:5
The succeeding verses how that this does not refer to earlier
deliverances from Babylon, Syria, etc. R545:4
Jeremiah 31:29
In those days -- In the Times of Restitution, the Millennial

age. A109; E332; R3304:5, R4812:2, R4971:4, R258:6
When fleshly Israel receives its portion. C298
In the days of favor following the "seven times" of
chastisement, or "Times of the Gentiles." (Luke 21:24) B92
Indicated by the return of divine favor to Israel. R1365:3;
C298
Say no more -- No longer shall any die for Adam's sin.
R2608:5, R1260:5, R3304:5, R4018:3*, R5240:4
The weakness of heredity will no longer weigh men down.
R892:4
The fathers -- Adam and his posterity. A109, A143;
R2050:6, R4371:3, R5063:6, R2611:5
Eaten a sour grape -- The sour grape of sin. R1365:3,
R2050:6, R2611:5, R4812:2, R282:6; A109; E332;
OV90:2
The children's -- All of Adam's children. R2587:4
Are set on edge -- In the case of Adam, one soul sinned
and twenty thousand million souls die as the result--because
they are his children. CR431:5
By the chain of sickness, misery and death which follows.
A109, A143; E309; R1365:3, R2049:4; OV392:3;
HG351:4
The nature of the fathers, being polluted by sin, is transmitted
to the children, who come under the death sentence for having
the same nature (disposition) as the fathers. R527:2*
So that sometimes we cannot do the things that we would do,
and frequently leave undone the things that we ought to do.
R2587:4
Jeremiah 31:30
But every one -- Who dies in that age. A109; B92; E473
Since the race will no longer be "in Adam" this trial must be
an individual one. R2117:4
Shall die -- The Second Death. R1365:3, R2608:5,
R2677:6, R4909:1, R5309:5, R381:2, R904:6
None but wilful sinners shall die then, but such shall surely
die. R1073:2
The atonement for Adamic sin will not cover wilful sin
against light and knowledge. E474, E332
His own iniquity -- His own sin only. A109; R2759:4,
R2677:6, R2833:2, R4971:4, R5240:4, R5292:5
No longer shall die for Adam's sin. R1260:5, R2608:5,
R3304:5, R4018:3, R5240:4, R904:5
Since it is recorded that "Christ dieth no more," it follows that
not one of such condemned ones can be redeemed as Adam
was. R912:6
His teeth -- There will then be a test for life or death, as
there is now with the Church. Q288:6
Jeremiah 31:31
The days come -- When The Christ is glorified and beyond

the veil, after the days of the Gospel age. R5000:1, R4321:6;
Fii
When the sufferings of the Body of Christ will be finished
and Messiah shall come as the great Priest and King.
R4513:1, R4452:3, R4497:5, R4505:1, R4612:6
When Israel's "seven times" of punishment are over. R5163:6
As soon as this blood of the atonement shall have been
applied for the sins of all the people. R5292:6
Saith the LORD -- God made a promise to the Jews and
that promise must be fulfilled. CR44:2
I will make -- In the future; replacing the Law covenant.
R4496:1, R4646:4, R4344:5
A covenant does not go into operation until after it has been
fully mediated. R5164:1
Covenant relationship with God means perfection. Mankind
will not reach perfection or enter into the covenant until the
end of the 1000 years. R5293:6
A new covenant -- Properly so called because it will take
the place of the Old Law covenant. R5163:6, R3916:5
The Everlasting covenant, to be made with Israel alone, will
bring blessings to Israel, and to all mankind through Israel.
R4321:2, R5163:6, R4806:2, R4902:6, R4706:1, R4821:1,
R4505:1, R4497:5, R3916:5, R4452:3, R4528:5, R4555:1,
R4592:5, R4612:6, R4624:4, R4768:5, R4940:1; CR44:2,
CR157:3; Q170:7, Q468:2, Q622:1
The one that God intended should come to replace the typical
covenant. R5071:2, R4474:3, R4309:5, R4555:1, R5164:2,
R5292:2; OV118:2
The mention of a New (Law) covenant implies a Mediator for
it. R4437:6*, R4496:1
The antitypical Moses, The Christ complete, as Messiah will
mediate between God and mankind. R5301:6, R4840:3,
R5071:3, R5164:1; CR157:3, CR98:6; SM200:3; R4452:3,
R4474:5, R4511:5, R4624:6, R4696:3, R4713:5, R4840:3,
R4902:6, R4912:4; SM730:3
Mediated by The Christ for 1000 years. R5301:6, R5292:3,
R5000:2, R4613:4, R4640:3, R4646:1, R4586:6; HG460:4
The words "New covenant" indicate the repetition of God's
favor to Israel under the better Mediator. R4624:6
This cannot set aside, or make null and void, the original
Abrahamic covenant of grace, any more than could the Law
covenant. R5301:6
Implying that Israel was right in not expecting much from the
Law covenant. R4496:1
The covenant is a conditional one. That is shown by the fact
that it has a Mediator. Q187:2
The New covenant has been promised for centuries but it has
not yet gone into effect. R5292:6
The Ancient Worthies will be under the New covenant, their
indiscretions or imperfections will come under the review of
the Mediator. Q12:T-13:3
The offer of life to the Church is under the covenant of
sacrifice; to the world, under the New covenant. A141
The Gospel Church was not at all under the first covenant;
only the Jewish nation was. R4624:4
The New Creation is not under the Law covenant typified by
Hagar, or the New covenant typified by Keturah, but under
the original covenant, the Everlasting, Oathbound, Abrahamic
covenant typified by Sarah. R4011:1, R4624:4
Superior to the old covenant in that it will have a better
Mediator. R4309:6, R4624:6, R4931:1, R4714:3,
R4940:1; CR157:3
Of which our Lord was the Messenger. R4495:6, R4715:3
Which will absolutely take away sin and bring man into
harmony with God. R5292:2, R5293:4
The house of Israel -- As the natural seed of Abraham.
R4821:1
The New covenant will be Israelitish. CR157:3
The New covenant will be made directly with the nation of
Israel. R4497:5
The New covenant is given to Israel and the world only
indirectly. The Father's dealings are not with Israel, but with
the Mediator of the covenant. R3109:2
God's covenant will be with the Mediator for Israel. R4555:1,
R4640:5
All the Jews will be transferred from Moses to Christ, the
better Mediator; and from the Old Law covenant to the New
In order to avail themselves of this covenant all other nations
and peoples will be obliged to become a part of Israel.
R4902:6; CR139:1, CR485:2, CR51:4; OV72:T, SM596:1
The expression "New covenant" is not used with others than
the Jews because it is not true that God will make a covenant
with the rest of mankind. R4659:2
The New covenant is not to be made with any others than
Jews for no others were in covenant relationship with God.
R4624:6
This work will proceed from Israel to all the families of the
earth. R4674:2
The New covenant will mean that all through the Millennial
age all the blessings will go forth first to the Jews. CR44:2
The nations are to be blessed also under this New covenant by
becoming "daughters" to Israel. (Ezek. 16:61) R4371:3
The mediatorial work will be accomplished through natural
Israel. R4624:4, R4821:1
All mankind, represented by Israel. R904:6
The Jewish nation needed to be redeemed in a special manner
before God could use it as his channel of blessing to the other
nations. R4624:4
The house of Judah -- The ten tribes of Israel and the two
tribes of Judah: both mentioned to prevent a
misunderstanding. R4586:2, R1342:1, R2125:6; C297
Jeremiah 31:32
Not according to -- The old one was written merely on

tables of stone. The new one the Lord will cause gradually to
be written in the hearts of all. OV90:4, OV115:3
God intended to give them a better covenant than the Law,
which they had found to be a bondage and one unto death.
R4309:5
The Law given at Sinai was inferior when compared with the
perfect heart-and-mind written law bestowed upon Adam.
R1717:5
The covenant -- The Law covenant, made only with the
Jews, did not accomplish the blessing of Israel and of the
world. OV29:1; R4659:2; Q169:3
The inauguration of the Law covenant was typical of the
inauguration of the New covenant. R5000:2, R4592:5,
R4646:4; OV118:2
The terms of the New covenant will be the same as those
under the Law covenant instituted by Moses. OV81:2
The Law covenant is as binding upon the Jew as it ever was
and it will remain so until it is superseded by the New Law
covenant. R4912:4, R5164:1
In the day -- The day of the Passover, the first feature of
the Law. R1731:2, R971:6; OV94:T
The Passover is the first feature of the Law, and the Law
covenant is continually referred to as dating from that time.
R971:6
Jeremiah 31:33
The covenant -- The New covenant, the Everlasting

covenant. R3597:3
House of Israel -- The whole twelve tribes. C293
After those days -- After the "seven times" of
chastisement. B92; R4497:4
After the days of this Gospel age. R4321:6
Signifies after the completion of the selection of the Church.
R4497:6, R4612:6
When the days are accomplished for the overthrow of the
kingdoms of this world and the setting up of the Kingdom of
God. R904:5
After a while, by and by. R789:1
I will put my law -- Love shall be the law. R1244:6
God had a law before the Ten Commandments. It was graven
on man's nature in Adam. That original standard is again
promised for the future. R1731:5, R5294:2, R5309:4
Gradually retrace and rewrite the divine law in the hearts of
men. F359; R5309:5, R1365:5, R2195:6, R2060:5
When the law has been fully written in their whole being the
covenant condition will be fully attained. R4570:5*
The perfect human nature will then be as it was at first, a
law-inscribed nature. R764:2
In their inward parts -- In their very thoughts as well as
in their outward life. CR299:5; OV130:4
In their very nature. R1717:5
In their hearts -- The center of affection, the character.
R789:5, R2060:3, R5309:4, R4613:1
Restoring a heart of flesh, of tenderness, sympathy,
righteousness and divine likeness. R4806:2, R636:6,
R1244:6, R4729:4, R3071:3
Implying that the ability will be given to keep the law.
R5071:3, R4821:1, R812:5*
More than Adam had. R111:1
Be my people -- The Ancient Worthies will come forth
perfect; to them will gather their own Israelitish kindred, and
all nations. R4575:4
Jeremiah 31:34
Teach no more -- Because all will know the plan of God.

R1771:6, R3285:2, R4908:6, R5352:5; A75
Then mankind will no longer be invited to accept Christ, but
will be compelled to be obedient. CR51:3; SM440:T
The teaching of "churches" will be unnecessary. R2428:2*
It will no longer be necessary to preach. R5919:6, R1717:5
Shall all know me -- The eyes of their understanding shall
be opened. R3192:2, R2940:4, R4883:1, R5594:2,
R5919:6, R6013:5
The glorious opportunity for salvation shall come through the
knowledge of the Lord. R5078:4; SM558:2
Come to a knowledge of the truth. R5407:1, R3140:5
"The earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord." (Isa.
11:9) R1363:6, R2690:1, R1717:5, R1972:4; OV215:5;
R858:5, R2610:3, R4883:1, R5594:2, R5919:6; SM792:1
The way will be so plain that "the wayfaring men, though
fools, shall not err therein." (Isa. 35:8) A215; R1363:6,
R1450:5
This statement is not true now, and cannot be true until the
Lord's Kingdom is established. A75
This is restitution work, the work of the entire Millennial age.
R4613:4; SM792:T
The conditions will be such that doubt would be more
difficult than belief is at present. R1771:6
As a kind and loving father, God provides for the education of
all who ever came into the world. R33:3*
Forgiveness of sins and the blessing of being awakened from
the dead would profit mankind little if future arrangements
did not permit a thorough recovery from present mental,
moral and physical weaknesses. HG390:6, R443:3
A personal acceptance of the conditions of the New covenant
will be required of each individual. R1771:6
Instead of misrepresentation of God's character and loving
plans, the reverse will be given to mankind. R5485:5
When they know, each will be responsible. R5084:1
All who have ever lived. R5407:1, R3140:5, R3285:2
From the least -- "The wayfaring men, and those
unacquainted therewith, shall not go astray." (Isa. 35:8--Leeser) A215
Forgive their iniquity -- The taking away of their sins is a
necessity before they can receive the New covenant because
God makes no covenant with sinners. R4497:5
Under the Law covenant this was not done and sins remained;
for atonement was made fresh for them year by year.
R5293:4
I will remember -- The Mediator will not hold against
anyone the transgressions of this present life. R5293:5
Their sin no more -- Israel's sins have not yet been taken
away, even as the world's sins have not yet been taken away.
R4892:3
Past sins and iniquities shall no more rise up in judgment
against them, demanding their just penalty, death. R1654:1;
HG231:6
Christ will have appeared on their behalf and made
satisfaction for their sins. R5164:2
Guarantees that none shall die the Second Death except the
wilfully, intelligently disobedient. R3770:6, R5164:2
Jeremiah 31:36
The seed of Israel -- Uses one name for all the tribes.
C297; R1364:6
Jeremiah 31:38
That the city -- The city of Jerusalem will be rebuilt and

will become the capital city of the world. Q790:2
Located in the territory of the two tribes, showing that the
foregoing prophecy is not only for the ten tribes. C292;
R1342:1
Shall be built -- It is now being built along these very
lines. C266; R1044:4*
Tower of Hananeel -- Discovered in 1886 in laying the
foundation for a hotel. R1390:2
Describing the portion outside the Jaffa Gate. R1382:4
Jeremiah 32
Jeremiah 32:4
Behold his eyes -- Seems to contradict Ezek. 12:10-13.

He lived and died in Babylon, but saw it not. He saw
Nebuchadnezzar at Riblah, in Palestine. His sight was there
taken from him. R4866:2
Jeremiah 32:17
Nothing too hard -- A prayer, trusting God's power.

R5380:4*
Jeremiah 32:20
Signs and wonders -- The Great Pyramid. See Isa. 19:19.

C318
Jeremiah 32:35
Unto Molech -- Modern Molech worship is the

misrepresentation of God by those who endorse the eternal
torment theory. R2360:1, R3464:6
Jeremiah 32:37
I will -- Herzl's death may do good--teaching those

interested that they must trust in God and not in man.
R3412:4
Gather them out -- Regathering from among all the
nations. R1483:5
The Lord will no doubt use persecution to awaken them.
R1819:6
A deliverance already beginning which will need no
repetition, for they shall be established in their everlasting
possession. R1483:5
Dr. Herzl's continuance at the head of the Zionist movement
might have proved inimical to these divine arrangements
centered in Palestine. R3412:4
Jeremiah 32:40
And I will -- In the Millennial age. A109

Everlasting covenant -- Both the Abrahamic (Gen. 17:7,
13, 19; 2 Sam. 23:5; Psa. 105:8-10) and the New covenant
(Jer. 32:40; Jer. 31:31,32; Ezek. 16:60) are styled "the
everlasting covenant" in contrast with the Law covenant,
which passed away. The one is perpetuated in the other.
R4321:2
With them -- With the Jews. A109
Devout Jews are still waiting for the fulfillment of these
promises. R5885:6
See also comments on Jer. 31:31.
Jeremiah 32:43
Fields shall be bought -- Therefore it was suggested that

wealthy Hebrews purchase from Turkey all the government
lands with the proviso that Syria and Palestine be constituted
a free state. R1342:6
In this land -- This is now being fulfilled. C266
The Lord has commenced bringing the Jews back to their
land, and arranges for their reception and comfort on arrival.
R84:1
Jeremiah 32:44
Buy fields for money -- Baron Rothschild, at the time of

the last loan of 200,000,000 francs made to Turkey, accepted
a mortgage on the whole of Palestine (1879). R84:1*
Captivity to return -- Just as the Lord opens the way for
their return to Palestine, he, as it were, forces them out of
other lands. R84:4
Jeremiah 33
Jeremiah 33:6
I will cure them -- The Jews, and the whole world of

mankind, in the Millennial age. A109
Jeremiah 33:15
Unto David -- The prophets foretold that Messiah was to

be the Son of Jesse and David. R944:1
Jeremiah 33:16
This is the name -- "I will write upon him my new name"
(Rev. 3:12). The name of the Bridegroom is given to his
Bride. R3970:5
Wherewith she -- The glorified Church. T102; R4831:2
The LORD our righteousness -- Jehovah Tsidkenu, our
Righteousness of Jehovah; a wife shares her husband's honors
and name; all femininity having been dropped. E42; T102;
HG275:3, R3970:5, R238:2*
"That we might be made the righteousness of God through
him." (2 Cor. 5:21) R4913:3
The antitypical Zion, the glorified Christ. R4913:3;
HG606:3
Jeremiah 33:18
Sacrifice continually -- It is possible that in the beginning

of the Millennial age God may restore some of the features of
the Jewish Law, even sacrifices, to serve as object lessons.
R1732:6
Jeremiah 33:20
My covenant -- A covenant is a ratified, unalterable

agreement. R4370:2
Jeremiah 34
Jeremiah 34:22
Without an inhabitant -- Which seems to be what God

meant by "making the land desolate that it might enjoy its
Sabbaths." (2 Chron. 36:21) HG47:2
Jeremiah 36
Jeremiah 36:1
This word came -- Its prophecies of dire disaster incurred

the enmity of the king. R4857:2
Jeremiah -- Restrained from liberty and forbidden to
address the people publicly in the Temple. Similarly those
who have "present truth" are forbidden to speak in the
nominal churches. R2400:5
Jeremiah 36:2
Write therein -- As Jeremiah employed Baruch, the scribe,

to write the words of the prophecy, God's people today
present their message in written form. R2400:6
Against all the nations -- A solemn warning in our day,
for the prophecy is not only against Israel but against all the
nations." R1371:3
Jeremiah 36:3
All the evil -- The two uses of the word "evil" in this text
illustrate the two kinds of evil (sin and calamity). Sin is
always an evil but evil is not always a sin. R1226:2
Jeremiah 36:4
Baruch wrote -- Although he well knew that it meant the

loss of the king's favor; a lesson to God's people today.
R2400:5
Jeremiah 36:23
Into the fire -- He evidenced his disregard for the Word.

R3614:3
Until all the roll -- The entire manuscript was read and
destroyed. R3614:2, R1371:3
Was consumed -- All endeavors to destroy God's Word
will fail. R2401:1
Papacy endeavored in vain to destroy the Bible. R3614:6
Some today, although they would not burn the Bible itself,
would be in full sympathy with the burning of truth literature.
R3615:3
Those in power today will be similarly disrespectful of the
message and may futilely attempt to destroy it. R2400:6,
R4858:4
The first edition of Tyndale's translation of the New
Testament was bought up and burned. R3614:6, R4857:6
Jeremiah 36:25
Made intercession -- Merely advised the king in a

worldly-wise way, as some today advise a more liberal
course. R2401:1
Jeremiah 36:26
The LORD hid them --Possibly at some time in the future

the servants of Present Truth may need to hide from injustice.
R2401:1
Jeremiah 36:28
Again another roll -- Suggesting the manner in which the

Bible came into existence--piece by piece, under the Lord's
supervision. R3614:3
Jeremiah 36:30
He shall have none -- Messiah was of Nathan's line, not

Solomon's. E132
If Christ were the son of Joseph this prophecy would be false.
R468:1*
Jeremiah 36:31
I will punish him -- As the king brought upon himself

additional trouble as a punishment, all modern methods of
fighting against God are sure to bring punishment. R2401:1
Jeremiah 36:32
Many like words -- Resulting in the book of Jeremiah as

we now have it. R3614:3
Jeremiah 37
Jeremiah 37:1
Zedekiah -- He was a vassal to Nebuchadnezzar, king of

the Chaldeans, whose seat of empire was to the north.
R4865:3
Jeremiah 37:15
Smote him -- Shameful handling of the worthy servant of

the Lord. R1796:1
Put him in prison -- Persecution implies that the person or
thing persecuted possesses some qualities or powers that are
feared. R4865:2
Mental attitude has much to do with the amount of suffering.
Jeremiah, for instance, had a mind at peace with God.
R4866:1
Jeremiah 37:16
Cabins -- Underground cisterns or vaults, frequently deep

with mud and slime. R4865:5
Jeremiah 38
Jeremiah 38:1
Jeremiah -- Because Jeremiah was faithful to the Lord's

message he was persecuted. This test is upon us today.
R3616:5
Jeremiah 38:5
Zedekiah the king -- No heir of his has occupied the

throne of Israel from Zedekiah's day to the present time, over
2500 years. R3616:1
Jeremiah 38:6
Into the dungeon -- Probably the water cistern. R3616:3

Typifying the faithful of the Gospel age who suffer
persecution. "All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall
suffer persecution." (2 Tim. 3:12; Phil. 1:29) R1372:2
Sunk in the mire -- The lot of the Lord's prophets in early
Bible times was far from an enviable one. A54; HG536:5
Jeremiah 38:7
The Ethiopian -- A Negro. R3042:6, R3616:3
He had a cleaner heart than did the majority of the chief men
of Israel, much nearer to the divine likeness. R3616:4
Jeremiah 38:13
Took him up -- The king acted not from sympathy but

from a desire to inquire of the prophet. R4865:6
Jeremiah 38:14
Zedekiah the king -- He despised Jeremiah, yet he feared

that his message was true. R4865:6
Jeremiah 39
Jeremiah 39:2
City was broken up -- After a year and a half of siege.

R4866:2
Not just a scrap of history, nor for a moral lesson, but given to
mark: (1) the beginning of the great Jubilee cycle; (2) the
close of God's typical kingdom; and (3) the beginning of the
Times of the Gentiles. R1372:6
Jeremiah 39:7
Put out Zedekiah's eyes -- Thus was made possible the

fulfillment of the seemingly contradictory prophecy of Ezek.
12:13, that he would live and die in Babylon and yet never
see the city. R4866:2
The punishment was after the manner of the time as
illustrated on some of the victory tablets which still remain.
R4866:2
Bound him with chains -- Thank God that the prisons of
today are reformatories rather than dungeons. R4866:5
Jeremiah 39:9
The remnant of the people -- Not beginning just 70 years

of captivity, but 70 years of desolation. R1372:5
Jeremiah 41
Jeremiah 41:2
Smote Gedaliah -- Assassinated the governor under whom

many of the Jewish fugitives were disposed to return from
captivity. R1372:5
Jeremiah 41:10
All the residue -- Beginning the period of 70 years

desolation of the land. R1980:5, R1372:5
Jeremiah 43
Jeremiah 43:5
All the remnant -- See comments on Jer. 41:10.
Jeremiah 43:7
The land of Egypt -- After the assassination of Gedaliah

the entire population speedily removed into Egypt for fear of
the wrath of the king of Babylon, thus beginning 70 years of
complete desolation. R1372:5, R1980:5
Jeremiah 44
Jeremiah 44:2
This day -- Marking the beginning of the 70 years of

desolation. HG47:2
Jeremiah 44:19
Cakes to worship -- This cake was round, as an image or

effigy of the sun, and was worshipped as such. Here the
pedigree of the modern ritualistic Communion wafer is
suggested. R1991:1*
Jeremiah 46
Jeremiah 46:2
Against Egypt -- The world. C317
Jeremiah 46:3
Draw near to battle -- The time of trouble. D527
Jeremiah 46:4
Harness the horses -- Old doctrinal hobbies. C316

Ye horsemen -- Great leaders in false doctrines. C316
Jeremiah 46:9
Rage, ye chariots -- Worldly organizations. C316
Jeremiah 46:10
Made drunk -- With pride and prosperity; typical of an

intoxication with the error and false doctrines of
Jeremiah 46:11
And take balm -- None of the proposed human remedies

will cure the malady. D469
Jeremiah 46:27
My servant Jacob -- Natural Israel. A300
Jeremiah 46:28
Not...unpunished -- The Lord will no doubt use

persecution to awaken them. R1819:6
Jeremiah 48
Jeremiah 48:16
And his affliction -- Rendered "evil" in "I create evil."

(Isa. 45:7) A125
Jeremiah 48:47
In the latter days -- In the Times of Restitution, olam

sleepers awake. R3725:5*
Jeremiah 49
Jeremiah 49:4
Gloriest thou -- The glory of the nominal church is in

numbers, wealth and worldly prosperity. R562:3
Jeremiah 49:5
Shall be driven out -- Jews are not shown much favor in

Germany and Russia. R351:4*
Jeremiah 49:6
And afterward -- In the Times of Restitution, olam

Jeremiah 49:7
Concerning Edom -- Christendom. D15
Jeremiah 49:13
That Bozrah -- Ecclesiasticism, the chief citadel of

Christendom. D17
Jeremiah 49:14
To the battle -- The Day of Vengeance. D527
Jeremiah 49:21
The earth -- The present organizations of society. C229;

D46; A323
Jeremiah 49:39
In the latter days -- In the Times of Restitution, olam

Jeremiah 50
Jeremiah 50:1
Against Babylon -- Of two-fold application and

fulfillment: first upon literal Babylon, the type; more fully
upon symbolic Babylon, the antitype. R45:1, R177:4,
R2498:3
Mystic Babylon, Christendom. D26
As the literal city was captured by diversion of the literal
waters symbolic Babylon is to fall by the diversion of the
symbolic Euphrates, i.e., the alienation of the people and their
withholding of financial support. R2498:4, R4699:4
A company who live separate from, and endeavor to keep
themselves unspotted from the world, and bear the fruits of
the spirit, are no part of Babylon. R46:5
Literal Babylon never was Israel, but the Israelites were for a
time swallowed up in Babylon; likewise, mystic Babylon
never was spiritual Israel, though for a time spiritual Israel
was in captivity to mystic Babylon. R2498:6
Jeremiah 50:2
Bel -- The God of Babylon, the Pope. D40
Jeremiah 50:3
Out of the north -- Cyrus and his army, overthrowing

literal Babylon, was a figure of Messiah, King of kings and
Lord of lords, overthrowing mystic Babylon. R2498:4
Jeremiah 50:6
Their shepherds -- Greedy, ignorant, lazy teachers. F287

Mountains -- Kingdoms. A318
Jeremiah 50:8
Out of the midst -- "Come out of her, my people." (Rev.

18:4) D43
Jeremiah 50:15
Her walls -- Built of ignorance and superstition, whose

great foundations were laid centuries ago. SM409:2
Do unto her -- "Reward her even as she rewarded you."
(Rev. 18:6) R1371:6
Jeremiah 50:20
I will pardon -- Showing that the real fulfillment of this

prophecy was not on literal Babylon, but would be when God
shall take away the sins of Israel. R177:4
Jeremiah 50:22
A sound of battle -- The Day of Vengeance. D527
Jeremiah 50:28
To declare in Zion -- Nominal fleshly Zion, Christendom.

D23; C157
Of his temple -- The Christ. T70
Jeremiah 50:29
Do unto her -- "Double unto her double, according to her

works." (Rev. 18:6) R1371:6
Jeremiah 50:37
A sword -- The truth, the Word of God. B100
Jeremiah 50:38
Shall be dried up -- "The sixth angel poured out his vial

upon the great river Euphrates, and the water thereof was
dried up that the way of the Kings of the East might be
prepared." (Rev. 16:12) R1371:6
As the drying up of the literal Euphrates by Cyrus was the
immediate cause of the fall of ancient Babylon, so the drying
up of the waters of the mystic Euphrates is the prelude to the
fall of "Babylon the Great." (Rev. 16:12, 19) HG89:3;
SM410:1
Implies a cessation of the revenues of Babylon. SM410:1
Jeremiah 50:42
Roar like the sea -- Restless, turbulent, dissatisfied masses

of the world. A318
Jeremiah 50:46
At the noise -- The time of trouble. D20

The earth -- Society. A318
And the cry -- Because of her more terrible punishment.
D28
Among the nations -- "The kings of the earth shall bewail
her and lament for her." (Rev. 18:9) R1371:6
Jeremiah 51
Jeremiah 51:1
Against Babylon -- Mystic Babylon, Christendom. D26;

HG64:1
And against them -- All in sympathy with Babylon. D39
Jeremiah 51:2
The day of trouble -- Rendered "evil" in "I create evil."

(Isa. 45:7) A125
Jeremiah 51:6
Flee -- No one is responsible to flee unless he sees that it is

Babylon, but the very suggestion that it is Babylon means that
one should make a thorough investigation to see if it is so.
Q65:T
Present Truth will guide us into closer fellowship with God
and separateness of mind, heart and service from Babylon.
SM127:2
For those who obey this command there is but one place of
refuge, "The secret place of the Most High" (Psa. 91:1)--the
place or condition of complete consecration. D43
Out of the midst -- "Come out of her, my people." (Rev.
18:4) D43; R436:5, R2538:1
The Lord's people are not to look back at the things that are to
be destroyed. R5456:4
With a full renunciation of the things of the present time.
R5456:5
And deliver -- This call must be heard and heeded before
the disaster comes; for it will come suddenly, as in an hour.
SM411:2
Whoever shall seek to save his life must lose it. Whoever
shall lose his life will thereby be preserving it. (Luke 9:24)
R5456:5
LORD'S vengeance -- A part of the work of the second
advent will be the overthrow of antitypical Babylon.
R5092:3; D39
A recompence -- In the time of trouble God will repay his
enemies according to their deeds. D39
Jeremiah 51:7
A golden cup -- Representing the Bible, the Divine

Standard or authority. SM407:1
"Having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations."
(Rev. 17:4) C156
The cup suggests that the unfaithful church had once been the
receptacle of divine truth. R5092:1
Made all the earth drunken -- Not that every doctrine
presented by Papacy was false and intoxicating; but that a
stupefying potion was put into the wine already in the cup.
SM407:2
So strong is the power of this intoxication that its
inconsistencies are not discerned by those intoxicated.
SM408:1
Nations have drunken -- As heathen philosophies were
joined with Christianity a poisonous draught was mixed and
poured into the "golden cup" of truth, making all nations
drunk. R5910:6
"She made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her
fornication." (Rev. 14:8) C156
Wine -- False doctrine. R5092:1
The nations are mad -- Intoxicated with her errors. C156
As error spread, the spirit of ambition superseded the spirit of
humility. R5910:6
The pagan doctrine of the immortality of the soul, combined
with that of the torture of the wicked, resulted in the doctrine
of eternal torture. R5911:1
During the Dark Ages millions were tortured, exiled, and
murdered in multitudinous ways. R5911:2
Jeremiah 51:8
Is suddenly fallen -- Both literal and symbolic Babylon.

R2498:3
"Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen." (Rev. 18:2) C156
She has been spewed out of his mouth, and the Almighty now
calls upon his true people to "come out of her." (Rev. 18:4)
R5478:2
And destroyed -- And broken. C156
Howl for her -- "And they cast dust on their heads and
cried, weeping and wailing, saying, Alas, Alas, that great
city." (Rev. 18:19) C156
"The merchants of the earth shall weep and mourn over her."
(Rev. 18:11) R1371:6
Take balm -- Human remedies. D469
For her pain -- Her wound. C156
Jeremiah 51:9
Babylon -- The chief empire of earth in Jeremiah's day; an

illustration of a prophecy which has had one literal
fulfillment, and is about to have its second or higher
fulfillment. R436:5
Is not healed -- Illustrated by preparations for war among
nations which confess allegiance to the Prince of Peace.
R4411:6*
The protests and warnings of the righteous are steadily
ignored by the world. D542
There is no balm in Gilead, and no physician there. (Jer.
8:22) D469
Forsake her -- "Come out of her, my people." (Rev. 18:4)
D543
Get out from under her influence; stand free from this
bondage to error and worldliness. R5696:6
His own country -- To the true Church, or to the world, as
the case may be, according as each is thus proved to be of the
wheat or the tares. C156
Her judgment -- Her punishment. C156
Reacheth unto heaven -- "Her sins have reached unto
heaven and God hath remembered her iniquities." (Rev. 18:5)
R1371:6
Jeremiah 51:10
Declare in Zion -- There is a nominal spiritual Zion, and a

nominal fleshly Zion. D23; A297; T33
Jeremiah 51:11
The kings -- Of Christ's Kingdom, the Royal Priesthood.

R2498:4
Of his temple -- The Christ. T70
Jeremiah 51:12
The walls -- Civil power. D40

Jeremiah 51:13
Upon many waters -- "The waters that thou sawest where

the whore sitteth are peoples and multitudes and nations and
tongues." (Rev. 17:15) R1371:6, R5846:2
The literal was built on the river Euphrates and derived
wealth and splendor from that source; the symbolic is seated
upon many waters--peoples, nations, from which it derives
its support. R45:1
Jeremiah 51:24
Babylon -- Christendom, the nominal Christian church,

especially the Papacy. D26, D39
Of Chaldea -- Babylonia, Christendom, all the nations of
the so-called Christian world. D39
Jeremiah 51:25
Mountain -- Kingdom. A318
Jeremiah 51:27
Set ye up a standard -- The standard of the truth. D40

Blow the trumpet -- The seventh trumpet, the last trump,
the trump of God, the trump of knowledge and liberty. B148
Not metallic trumpets. The angelic movements under the
seventh trumpet are as noiseless as they have been under the
other six. HG26:1
Jeremiah 51:28
The kings -- Of Christ's Kingdom, the Royal Priesthood.

R2498:4
Jeremiah 51:29
Without an inhabitant -- See comments on Jer. 43:7.
Jeremiah 51:33
Of her harvest -- "Thrust in thy sickle and reap, for the

time is come for thee to reap, for the harvest of the earth is
ripe." (Rev. 14:15) R1371:6
Jeremiah 51:37
For dragons -- "An habitation of devils, and the hold of

every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful
bird." (Rev. 18:2) R1371:6
Jeremiah 51:39
They -- Babylon's great ones, highly esteemed by her

subjects, called by various dignified and high sounding titles.
R1951:4
Perpetual sleep -- As clergy, with high-sounding titles and
offices, they shall never awake or exist again as such.
R1951:4
Olam, lasting, not endless. R3725:5*
Jeremiah 51:41
How is Sheshach taken -- Representing Babylon. The

religious element will be the last to fall. (Jer. 25:26) HG94:1
Jeremiah 51:42
The sea -- Restless, anarchistic masses of mankind. A318
Jeremiah 51:44
Bel in Babylon -- The God of Babylon, the Pope. D40

Out of his mouth -- He shall repudiate in his extremity the
"great swelling words" and blasphemous titles which he has
for so long appropriated to himself. D40
The wall of Babylon -- The civil power that once defended
it and that in a measure does so still. D40
Built of ignorance and superstition, whose great foundations
were laid centuries ago. SM409:2
Jeremiah 51:45
Go ye out -- "Come out of her, my people." (Rev. 18:4)

R1371:6, R2538:1
Jeremiah 51:46
Rumour that shall be heard -- "Ye shall hear of wars and

rumors of wars." (Mark 13:7,8; Luke 21:8,9) R5969:2*
Another year -- A second year. R5969:2*
Jeremiah 51:48
The heaven -- The powers of spiritual control. A318

And the earth -- Society. A318
Jeremiah 51:49
So at Babylon -- Because of her greater responsibility,

against her will burn the fierceness of his wrath and
indignation. D28
Jeremiah 51:57
Made drunk -- An intoxication of error, false doctrines

and theories. R4287:3
See also comments on Jer. 51:7.
Jeremiah 51:58
Her high gates -- Representing mystic Babylon's worldly

wisdom, human ingenuity and dexterity of organization to
maintain control of the symbolic waters. SM409:2
Be burned with fire -- Be destroyed. D40
The same symbol of fire is used by St. Peter in referring to the
same trouble and destruction. SM424:3
Shall labour in vain -- To prop and save the walls of
Babylon. D40
Jeremiah 51:60
Jeremiah wrote in a book -- The prophets did not confine

themselves to oral teachings. R1145:3
Jeremiah 51:63
Midst of Euphrates -- Peoples, nations. B209
Jeremiah 51:64
Shall Babylon sink -- Into the restless sea of ungovernable

peoples. D111
Showing that her destruction will be sudden, violent and
complete. D37
And shall not rise -- "And a mighty angel took up a stone
like a great millstone and cast it into the sea, saying, Thus
with violence shall that great city Babylon be thrown down
and shall be found no more at all." (Rev. 18:21) R1371:6,
R5478:2
The "sea" of anarchy will swallow up the false systems.
R5478:2
Jeremiah 52
Jeremiah 52:1
Reigned 11 years -- In round numbers; actually 10 years,

4 months, 9 days. B48; R67:6
Jeremiah 52:6
Ninth day of the month -- Corresponding to about July 1,

1914 or 1915. Q75:8*
Jeremiah 52:10
Judah -- Represented those Israelites who were faithful to

the Lord. R2401:3
As the Lord sifted Judah, so he has been sifting Protestants, to
gather out the "jewels." R2401:6
Jeremiah 52:12
19th year of Nebuchadrezzar -- Then was the land made

desolate so that it could enjoy the "seventy years" of sabbaths.
HG58:2
Jeremiah 52:16
Left certain of the poor -- So long as they remained, the

prophecy of 2 Chron. 36:21 was not fully met. HG47:3
Lamentations
Lamentations 1
Lamentations 1:12
My sorrow -- "A stone of stumbling." (1 Pet. 2:8)

R3776:2
Lamentations 1:18
LORD is righteous -- He could not be holy in all his

works if he were the author of sin and crime. R1351:4*
Lamentations 1:21
Of my trouble -- Rendered "evil" in "I create evil. (Isa.

45:7) A125
Lamentations 2
Lamentations 2:1
Not his footstool -- "Heaven is my throne, and earth my

footstool." (Acts 7:49) D647
Day of his anger -- The period of the reign of sin and
death. D649
Lamentations 3
Lamentations 3:33
Not afflict willingly -- But for their good. R3061:2,

R4876:5
Lamentations 3:34
All the prisoners -- Death's captives. A112

Lamentations 3:40
Try our ways -- If our ways are not right they should be
amended, not justified. R705:3
Turn again -- Pray, being free from condemnation.
R5380:2*
Lamentations 4
Lamentations 4:1
How is the gold -- Representing obedience, consecration.

R3703:4
Lamentations 4:22
Daughter of Edom -- Christendom. D15
Ezekiel
General
Ezekiel ranks amongst the great prophets. Most realistic
were his visions and powerfully described. A portion of his
prophecy was written before the final serious troubles upon
the kingdom of Judah, which resulted in the overthrow of the
kingdom. The entire prophecy was given in Babylon, Ezekiel
himself residing there and ministering as a Prophet chiefly to
the captives, arousing their hearts to an appreciation of their
situation and to a hope of return in God's appointed time to
their own land. Ezekiel stood for, or represented the Son of
Man, the great Teacher, the Redeemer; he also represented
the members of the Bride of Christ whom the glorious head
may from time to time use as his mouthpiece. R4881:1,5
Ezekiel's prophecy is full of symbolism, and has
appropriately been termed the apocalypse of the Old
Testament. It was written in Babylonia in the Chaldaic
language. Ezekiel was one of the captives of Judah taken to
Babylonia by King Nebuchadnezzar on the occasion of his
first invasion, when he placed Zedekiah on the throne, eleven
years before his later invasion, when the city was destroyed.
The captives taken at that time included many of the chief
men of the Jewish nation... some of them, as in the case of
Daniel, rising to positions of very high honor in the kingdom.
Ezekiel had great liberty, and his prophesying was done for
the Jews of the captivity--exiles. The Lord's testimony
through this prophet was undoubtedly intended to cheer and
comfort those of his people who were Israelites indeed, and to
fan the spark of faith which still remained in their hearts--to
lead them, as in the case of Daniel, to hope for the return of
God's favor and the end of their captivity with the end of the
appointed seventy years' desolation of the land. R3624:3
But although multiplied were their iniquities and their
crimes, the Lord did not utterly cast away his people, but in
great mercy remembered them, even in the land of their
captivity, where he was represented in their midst by the
prophet Ezekiel, who for twenty-two years delivered unto
them the Word of the Lord--words of reproof and
denunciation, and also words of promise and hope. As we
peruse these words of promise and call to mind the miserable
idolatries, licentiousness and ingratitude of this hardhearted
and stiff-necked people, let us not fail to mark the
lovingkindness of our God, his mercy and faithfulness, his
slowness to anger and his plenteous grace. And while we do
so, let us not forget the typical character of his dealings with
Israel. R1373:4
Ezekiel 1
Ezekiel 1:1
It came to pass -- A portion of this prophecy was written

before the final troubles upon Judah; the remainder, after the
complete overthrow. The entire prophecy was given in
Babylon. R4881:1
Written in the Chaldaic language, this prophecy is full of
symbolism and has been termed the apocalypse of the Old
Testament. R3624:3
As I was -- Carried miraculously forward to some of the
captives residing by the river Chebar. R4881:5
Heavens were opened -- Ezekiel, like John, seems to
represent the living saints. (Rev. 4:1) R530:4*
Visions of God -- Related not only to natural Israel, but
also to spiritual Israel. R3624:6
Ezekiel 1:3
Ezekiel -- Ranks amongst the great prophets. R4881:1

Represented the Son of Man, the great Teacher, the
Redeemer; and also the members of the Bride of Christ, used
as his mouthpieces. R4881:5
Ezekiel 1:4
Out of the north -- The seat of divine empire. D653
Ezekiel 1:5
Living creatures -- Cherubim are always connected with

the immediate presence or throne of God. R529:6*
Personifying the attributes of God: Power, Wisdom, Justice
and Love. R529:6*
We can hear the Power, Wisdom, Justice and Love of God
proclaiming in perfect harmony the glory and honor of our
Father. R530:5*, R2372:4
Ezekiel 1:13
Coals of fire -- Or like fire, as all spirit beings are

described in Scripture. R2350:1
Went forth lightning -- Diffusions of knowledge. R511:2
Ezekiel 1:26
A throne -- Or chariot, supported by the living creatures,

or cherubim; also represented in the Mercy Seat of the
Tabernacle. R529:6*
Ezekiel 2
Ezekiel 2:5
Hear, or...forbear -- Heed or refuse to heed. R3280:1

Ezekiel 2:9
A roll of a book -- The plan and purpose of God, as

written in the Law and the prophets. (Rev. 10:2) R530:3*
Ezekiel 2:10
He spread it -- It was sealed until Christ began to open it.

(Rev. 5:5) R530:3*
Lamentations -- We are sent to preach a message that is
offensive to "a rebellious house," the nominal "Israel of God."
(Verse 5) R530:4*
Ezekiel 3
Ezekiel 3:3
As honey -- A blessed feast; but, having been digested,

leads to self-denial, crucifixion, death. (Rev. 10:9) R530:4*
Ezekiel 3:10
Hear with thine ears -- Few have hearing ears and

understanding hearts. R5768:4
Ezekiel 3:17
Watchman -- The prophets and others. R1795:6

Every member of the Body of Christ. R4881:6
House of Israel -- Even though today Zion be in Babylon,
as were those typically addressed by the Prophet. R4881:6
Warning -- Going forth since the Gospel has been
preached: "He that hath an ear, let him hear." (Rev. 3:22)
R4881:5
Ezekiel 3:18
Wicked -- Wilfully or intentionally wicked. R4881:5

Shalt surely die -- All of God's consecrated people are
duty-bound to make clear this feature of the divine program--
that all wilful sin will bring death. R4881:6
To save his life -- The evildoer, coming to God with full
repentance and change of heart, is forgiven and received into
God's family. R5781:2
His blood will I require -- With knowledge comes
responsibility. R5781:2
Ezekiel 3:20
Turn from his righteousness -- The fact that the Lord has
richly blessed us in the past, while we were yet in the way
with him, is no guarantee that he will continue his favor to us
after we have forsaken him. R1869:5
A stumblingblock -- "God shall send them strong
delusions that they shall believe a lie." (2 Thes. 2:11, 12)
R1869:5
He shall die -- "Because they received not the love of the
truth that they might be saved." (2 Thes. 2:10) R1869:5
Ezekiel 3:21
Warn the righteous -- A fitting description of how the

Lord has used the Vow. R4717:1*
Ezekiel 4
Ezekiel 4:1
Take thee a tile -- The use of such signs was common

with the prophets of olden times. R2223:4
Even Jerusalem -- Although the trouble is divided into
two portions, it is all represented as coming against one
people, as illustrated by the one capital city. C295; R1341:4
Ezekiel 4:5
390 days -- Some suppose this dates from the revolt, when
they went into idolatry, about 390 years before the desolation
of Jerusalem. C295; R1341:4
Ezekiel 4:6
40 days -- Some suppose the wrath against the two tribes

dated from 40 years before the desolation when, under
Manasseh, the two tribes became idolaters. R1341:4; C295
Each day for a year -- Time has its type and antitype, like
every other part. HG49:3
The word day often stands for epoch or period. Thus the
creative days were not 24-hour days. F19
A literal year, Jewish reckoning, contains 360 days; and since
in prophecy a day represents a year of actual time, each
symbolic "time" would be 360 years. R5564:3
A prophetic year of 360 days, used to symbolize 360 years, is
an arbitrary arrangement peculiar to its intended use. It is
neither a Lunar year of 354 1/3 days nor a Solar year of 365
1/4 days. R1979:6
A day for a year is Bible usage in symbolic prophecy. B91,
B66; Q846:2; OV81:1; HG519:5
Ezekiel 7
Ezekiel 7:7
Of the mountains -- Kingdoms. A318
Ezekiel 7:8
Recompense -- We are already entering the great Day of

Recompense. R3619:2
Ezekiel 7:12
The seller mourn -- For trouble will be on the entire

multitude and there will be no security of property. A315
Ezekiel 7:16
Like doves -- Symbols of peace and purity. E212
Ezekiel 7:17
Shall be feeble -- Helpless to turn aside the trouble. A315

Of little avail will be the protection which any government
can provide, when the judgments of the Lord and the fruits of
their folly are precipitated upon them all. D149
Ezekiel 7:19
They shall cast -- The animosities of the masses will be

exercised with violence against the rich. R1690:3, R2904:3
The rich will suffer most. D273
Their silver -- The demonetization of silver seems to be
referred to. OV339:1; SM691:1; D472
In the streets -- Miller Bartella offered the mob, in vain,
his fortune for his life--a picture throwing lurid light upon the
situation. R2384:2
Financial institutions, including insurance companies and
beneficial societies, will go down; and "treasures" in them
will prove utterly worthless. D45
Treat it as a commodity and not as money. OV339:1
Shall be removed -- "As though it were unclean."
(Margin) D45
Become scarce and eventually be completely withdrawn by
the people; hiding it as though it were an unclean thing, as the
Hebrew text implies. SM691:1; OV339:1
Silver and their gold -- And bank notes and bonds. F554;
D329
Neither silver nor gold will be available. OV339:1
Not be able to deliver -- Procuring neither protection,
comforts nor luxuries. F554
The character of the trouble will be one in which the
animosities of the masses will be exercised with violence
against the rich. R1690:3
Day of the wrath -- This is the predicted time of distress
of nations with perplexity. (Luke 21:25) D149
They shall not satisfy -- With their wealth. D45
Because it -- The idolatry of money. B139
Is the stumblingblock -- The spirit of acquisitiveness
which lies at the foundation of all the trouble is to be found in
every land, but nowhere more so than in so--called
"Christendom." R2904:4
Those who worship idols of gold, silver, stocks or bonds, will
receive severe chastisement before being granted a share in
the coming blessings. SM482:1
Ezekiel 7:21
The strangers -- Others, beyond the revolting hosts of

Christendom, will also form a part of the Lord's great army.
D549
Anarchists outrivaling heathendom in barbarity; or, possibly,
uprisings of the peoples of India, China and Africa against
Christendom. D550
Ezekiel 7:23
Make a chain -- Bind, unite them together, let them make

common cause. D550
The city -- Christendom. D550
Ezekiel 7:24
Worst of the heathen -- Probably those in Christendom

without God and without Christian sentiments or hopes.
D550
Their holy places -- Their honored or sacred places, their
religious institutions, etc. D550
Ezekiel 9
Ezekiel 9:1
Charge over the city -- Babylon, Christendom. D527
Ezekiel 9:2
And one man -- Pastor Russell. R6011:5*
Ezekiel 10
Ezekiel 10:1
Of the Cherubims -- Symbols of God's love and power.

T125
Always connected with the immediate presence or throne of
God. (Rev. 4:6) R529:6*
Likeness of a throne -- Symbol of authority and rulership.
A92
Ezekiel 10:2
Over the city -- Babylon, Christendom. D527

Ezekiel 11
Ezekiel 11:17
Even gather you -- Even now beginning to be fulfilled.

R1630:2
Not only out from among all nations, but also out of your
graves. R1630:2
Ezekiel 11:19
I will give -- The King of Glory, the Good Physician, will

fulfill God's promise to Israel, and from Israel to all the
families of the earth. R4674:2
Them -- A promise to natural Israel. SM368:T
I will take -- In the incoming age, man's likeness of Satan
will give place to the original likeness of God. R376:5
Stony heart -- Of selfishness. R1244:6
An heart of flesh -- Proper fleshly minds. R376:5
Restore the original image of God--restitution. A333;
R4729:4, R5068:4
Tender, sympathetic, generous, God-like. R3202:6,
R1244:6, R4777:2
The work of the Kingdom when set up in power and great
glory. R5886:1
During the Millennial reign of Christ. R1617:5
Ezekiel 11:20
That they may walk -- Under the New covenant--the real

The heart of flesh will enable them to keep his covenant, and
walk before him with a perfect heart, and be a channel of
blessing to all the families of the earth. R1617:5
Ezekiel 11:22
The Cherubims -- Representing the divine attributes.

R4787:2
Ezekiel 11:23
Upon the mountain -- Kingdom. A318

On the east side -- Open to the Sun of Righteousness.
D653
Ezekiel 12
Ezekiel 12:13
Not see it -- Zedekiah never saw Babylon. His eyes were

put out before he was taken there. R2402:1, R4866:3;
PD47/59
Ezekiel 12:23
Days are at hand -- The vision is to be made clear at the

appointed time. R5374:3
And the effect -- At the time of the Millerite movement in
1844. C90*
Matter or thing (as spoken). R5375:4
Vision -- The fact that the vision is now speaking, made
plain upon tables, is very convincing. R5375:4
Ezekiel 13
Ezekiel 13:3
Follow their own spirit -- Instead of saying with

confidence: "Thus saith the Lord, and here are the chapter and
verse; and thus and so it harmonizes with every other chapter
and verse of the Word." R1357:4
Have seen nothing -- No man has a commission to teach
divine truth who has not first learned what the truth is.
R1357:4
Ezekiel 13:6
Lying divination -- "Lying wonders" (1 Tim. 4:1); and

"seducing spirits" (2 Thes. 2:9); deceptions of the fallen
angels. R2173:4
Ezekiel 13:9
Writing of the house of Israel -- The same book as in

Dan. 12:1, "thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall
be found written in the book." HG66:2, HG82:4
Ezekiel 14
Ezekiel 14:14
Noah -- This commendation shows that God did not hold

Noah's act of drunkenness against him, but indicates that
Noah did it in ignorance. R3044:2
Daniel -- Daniel was in a position of great prominence in
Babylon at the time these words were written. R2492:3,
R3630:3
And Job -- Indicates that the narrative of Job is not a
parable. R1505:3, R5401:3; Q793:2
Ezekiel 14:20
Job -- One whom God especially loved. R5878:5
Ezekiel 14:22
The evil -- Calamities and judgment. R1299:6*
Ezekiel 16
Ezekiel 16:2
Son of man -- Ezekiel represented the Son of Man, and

also the members of the Bride of Christ, every member of
which is a watchman on the walls of Zion. R4881:5,6
Ezekiel 16:7
Waxen great -- Compare the description here given with

that of the rich man in Luke 16:19-31. R802:3*
Ezekiel 16:32
Her husband -- Here the word "husband" means caretaker,

referring to a union or covenant between Jehovah and Israel.
R1388:6
Ezekiel 16:47
Corrupted more than they -- "It shall be more tolerable

for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment" than for
Capernaum. (Matt. 11:23) HG149:6
Ezekiel 16:49
Sodom -- The Sodomites possessed a very rich valley,

making hard work unnecessary, which induced much
idleness. PD24/35
Sin there reached the enormity referred to by Paul in Rom.
1:18-32. R1617:6
Pride -- Prosperity develops pride, instead of gratitude to
God and a realization of increased responsibility as a steward.
Pride begets misrule, arrogance, injustice and tyranny.
R2306:1
Fulness of bread -- Abundance of idleness is disastrous,
making the downward course more rapid. SM157:1;
PD24/35
Neglecting the poor and the needy. R3948:4
Some modern instances: jewels worth $1,000,000 on one
costume, $50,000 for two vases, $350,000 for a horse,
$50,000 for a coffin, $5,000 for burying a dog, $50,000 for a
single entertainment. D294
Such displays of luxury and extravagance will surely excite
the envy and hatred of the poor against the wealthy.
R2105:3; D295
Ezekiel 16:50
Took them away -- Not to eternal torment, but from

present life with its privileges and advantages. R1617:6
The death of the Sodomites was merely the Adamic Death
hastened, not the Second Death. OV43:2
Temporarily destroyed by fire as an example of the absolute
annihilation which will ultimately come upon all wilful
sinners, the Second Death. R4599:5, R5083:5
All human right in the earth was abrogated by the death
sentence upon the sinner. R5335:6
As I saw good -- Good, because it made an example of
them for those who should afterward live ungodly. R1779:2,
R1270:4
As with the Canaanites, their further continuance would be
neither for their good nor for the Lord's glory. R5335:6
In all these things God had a wise purpose; and in his own
time he will make that purpose manifest to all, as he even now
makes it manifest to the saints. R675:5
If death ends all probation, why did God see good to take this
people away without giving them a chance of salvation
through "the only name?" R259:2; A111
Because it was not yet their due time. In "due time" they will
be awakened from death, come to a knowledge of the truth,
and have a full opportunity for life everlasting. A111;
R5083:5, R1779:2, R1270:5, R545:5, R259:2; PD24/35
Ezekiel 16:51
Samaria -- God here speaks of Israel and compares her

with her neighbor Samaria. R259:2
Half of thy sins -- The chastisement and discipline
necessary to Sodom's and Samaria's restoration to
righteousness will be less severe than for some who are of the
natural lineage of Abraham. R1374:2, R5363:5
Ezekiel 16:53
When I shall -- Under the New covenant, under Messiah's

Kingdom. PD24/35
Bring again -- The Sodomites will be raised from death
and brought to a knowledge of God. R5179:6, R4881:3
The Sodomites could not have had their judgment yet--their
second judgment. Like the rest of us, they suffered in the first
judgment which came upon Father Adam. HG223:2
Future probation is a doctrine of the Bible. R477:1*
Their captivity -- In death, all are captives. R7:6,
R259:3, R545:6, R236:1; A112
Captivity of Sodom -- "There shall be a resurrection of the
dead, both of the just and of the unjust." (Acts 24:15)
R351:1*
In selecting so extreme an example of clemency, our Lord
evidently intended that we should see that the sacrifice which
he gave was unquestionably "a ransom for all." HG336:3
Since Jesus says they were all destroyed (Luke 17:29), this
must be by a restoration of life from the dead. R413:2
In the midst -- Sodom, Samaria and Israel will all be
raised together. R8:1
Ezekiel 16:55
Thy sisters -- The Lord will humble their pride by

restoring peoples whom Israel detested as inferiors and
sinners. SM211:2
Shall return -- Even the Sodomites who are held up, all
through the Bible, as examples of wickedness, and "as
suffering the vengeance of eternal fire" (Jude 7), are to share
in the restitution. HG17:3, HG14:5
Their former estate -- To open the prison doors of the
grave--restitution. R8:1, R259:3, R4881:3; A112
The Sodomites will be sharers in that restitution. R4594:4
Not to judgment merely, and then to heaven or hell. HG39:5
Of human perfection--to all who will receive Christ and obey
him. R1718:4, R3452:5
Your former estate -- Their former estate is as much
beneath the Kingdom, which flesh and blood cannot inherit,
as our present position is beneath that of the angel Gabriel.
HG36:5
Ezekiel 16:60
Remember my covenant -- "For the gifts and callings of

God are without repentance." (Rom. 11:29) R8:1, R259:3
I will -- Showing that the Lord was not speaking ironically
to the Jews. (Matt. 11:23) He was not saying that he would
just as willingly bring back the Sodomites as them, but had no
intention of restoring either. OV227:6; HG346:1
Establish unto thee -- The Lord's dealings with other
nations will be through natural Israel. R4464:5; CR59:5;
PD24/35
Everlasting covenant -- The Lord will restore Sodom,
Samaria and Israel, and establish his covenant with them
through Messiah in the Millennial Age. R4599:5
As the old Law covenant was with Israel only, so the New
(Law) covenant will be with Israel only. Other nations will
share it by becoming Israelites. R4321:1
Jesus is the Mediator of the New (Law) covenant, under
which he will establish his Mediatorial Kingdom for the
blessing of Israel and the world. R4476:1
Ezekiel 16:61
Shalt remember -- Raised with the same nature and

personality and able to recall their former degraded condition.
R360:5, R604:3*
Be ashamed -- "They shall look upon him whom they
pierced and mourn." (Zech. 12:10) R517:1*
If our ways are not right, they should be amended and not
justified by saying, "It is my way." R705:3
Christ will set men's sins in order before them, and they must
freely confess their sins and bear their shame. R1646:4
Shalt receive -- The Lord's dealings with other nations will
be through natural Israel. F4464:5
Thy sisters -- Sodom and Samaria, representing other
nations of the world. R4464:5
I will -- God is not here speaking ironically, as some
suggest. R259:3
Give them unto thee -- The Lord clearly indicates that his
dealings with outside nations will be through natural Israel.
CR59:5
For daughters -- The nations are to be instructed and
blessed under the New covenant by becoming "daughters" to
Israel. R4464:6, R4371:3, R4575:4, R130:5
"Thy sons shall come from afar, and thy daughters to be
nursed at thy side." (Isa. 60:4) D638
Other nations will become Israelites, "proselytes of the gate,"
not under the Old, but under the New covenant. R4321:1
They will enjoy, as "daughters of Judah," the highest degree
of happiness they are capable of appreciating. HG27:4
That she may instruct them and bring them into harmony with
God's plans. R447:4*, R659:4*
Not by thy covenant -- Not by the Law covenant, but by
the New covenant. R4464:6, R4371:3, R4575:4, R236:1;
CR59:5; SM212:T, Q622:1
Israel's Old covenant will cover them until they are brought
under the new Mediator of the New covenant. Q134:2
Ezekiel 16:62
I will establish -- The Jews are to be the first to experience

restitution favor. OV120:5
My covenant -- The New Law covenant. SM212:T,
CR59:5; R4354:6, R4575:4
Ezekiel 16:63
That -- In order that. SM212:T

Confounded -- Ashamed. R4881:4
Open thy mouth -- In boasting or complaint. R4881:4
Pacified -- In the redemption accomplished by our Lord.
R4881:4
"And so all Israel shall be saved." (Rom. 11:26) OV228:1
The promised restitution is not based on the merits of Israel,
the Samaritans or the Sodomites. R259:4, R546:1
That thou hast done -- Which he declares to be worse
than Sodom had done (see verses 47 and 48). R1618:1
Saith the Lord GOD -- When God signs his name to a
statement this way we must believe it. R259:4, R8:1,
R546:1
Ezekiel 17
Ezekiel 17:13
Taken an oath -- Of faithfulness as a vassal to the king of

Babylon. R3623:2
Ezekiel 17:16
Oath he despised -- The taking of that oath was the

immediate cause of Zedekiah's downfall. R3623:2
Ezekiel 18
Ezekiel 18:1
The word of the LORD -- The 18th chapter of Ezekiel

relates specially to the time when the Adamic transgression
will be offset by the New covenant. Naught will remain
against believers but their own misconduct. R2017:3
Ezekiel 18:2
The fathers -- Adam and his descendants, our ancestors.

A109; R2220:2, R2608:5
Have eaten -- Those who claim that God directly creates
every human being, make out that God is responsible for all
the idiocy, insanity and imbecility in the world. E309
Sour grapes -- Of human sin and weakness. R4881:2,
R2050:6, R3133:6; E309
And -- In consequence. R2220:2
Children's teeth -- By heredity, from their parents.
R4881:2
Are set on edge -- Now all suffer for what their fathers
sowed. OV392:3
By sickness, misery and death which follows. A109
They are all depraved. E309
All of Adam's posterity are fallen, depraved, dying, as a result
of his transgression. R2398:6
Illustrated by the nearly one-half of the human family who die
in infancy--thus obviously not for their own sins. E331
Ezekiel 18:3
Ye shall not -- During the Millennial age. R4971:4;

E331; Q288:6
Any more -- No longer will men be held accountable for
Adam's sin. R5292:3; A143
The parents' sins will not be upon the children. R381:2
The Adamic sin and curse being canceled by the Redeemer,
men will be freed from that condemnation. R492:5
The weakness of heredity shall no longer weigh men down.
R892:4
Ezekiel 18:4
All souls are mine -- God does not leave the eternal
destiny of a single soul to the faithfulness of parents, or
pastor, or any one. R944:6
The soul -- The being. E465; R282:1, R1221:5,
R1377:6, R3027:5, R5578:6, R205:4, R277:1
It was not Adam's hand nor his body that sinned, but his soul,
his intelligent will. CR170:1; R5611:3, R3174:1; Q835:T
Because of sin, all souls die. To redeem our souls, our Lord
became a human soul and "made his soul an offering for sin."
(Isa. 53:12) Therefore there is a resurrection of the soul, not
of the body. R3027:5, R3854:5; HG135:3
That sinneth -- Not the innocent children, as at present.
E331
Wilfully and deliberately against full light and ability. R892
An individual and deliberate act. R649:5
All the wicked--not all the ignorant--will God destroy.
HG197:2
It shall die -- The Second Death. R3175:6, R381:2,
R553:5, R5292:5; HG283:6
Not suffer eternal torment. R4982:5, R5318:2, R1039:6,
R1196:1, R2607:3, R5753:5; CR269:6, CR293:4,
CR492:1, CR498:6; OV362:3, OV376:2; SM86:3,
SM171:T, SM520:2, SM663:2; HG394:6, HG707:2*;
A128
The penalty for sin was not dying, but death. E465
The spark of life produced the soul, so taking away the spark
of life extinguishes the soul. R5611:3
"The wrath of God abideth on him." (John 3:36) E404
This scripture is not generally applicable to the present time
because all now die--saints and sinners; it is expressed as a
second sentence based on individual action and the context
refers to those who are free from Adamic sin. E330
A truth applicable to the Gospel Church now and to the world
during the Millennial reign, but not applicable to the Jews at
the time of the utterance. R4881:1
The sinning soul, but none other. R363:1
It is the soul, the living, intelligent being, which enters into
death. Q834:3; SM86:3; HG654:1
It was the soul that died; it is the soul that is to be
resuscitated. Q836:4
The full penalty of the divine law. OV16:1
The just penalty for the unworthy. E404
The only penalty expressed against sin by the Creator and
Lawgiver. R1983:3
God's law is that any creature who will not live in harmony
with his law shall not live at all. R282:1
Everlasting punishment, but not everlasting torment.
R2611:4; HG224:1
This shall always be the divine standard. HG233:1
Death is the absence of life, the loss of life. R3754:6
God gave us our existence and he has the power to deprive us
of it if we do not use it properly. R363:1, R1882:1
If it dies it does not have any punishment, or any more pain
after that. It has had its punishment. It is a great punishment
to die. HG221:6
But the breath of life (the spirit), the energizing of life
principle, was removed from the body and returned to God.
Q837:4
Death is the sentence, and it is from death that the world must
be awakened in order to know the privileges of divine grace.
HG115:2
In direct opposition to Satan's lie to Eve, "Ye shall not surely
die." R910:5
The first death, Adamic Death, was the death of the soul.
HG356:5
Never in the chemical laboratory, with analysis, microscopes
or scalpel, has any scientist ever been able to discover that a
man has a soul that could not die. CR209:1*
"God is able to destroy both soul and body." (Matt. 10:28)
CR169:6
That God could create a human soul, but could not destroy
one, is absurd and unscriptural. OV34:1; HG334:5
"All the wicked will God destroy." (Psa. 145:20) R2607:3
"The wages of sin is death." (Rom. 6:23) R2607:3
The Second Death is not an enemy, but a friend.
R3175:6, R1219:4, R1511:4, R4999:6; Q261:1, Q623:6
None but wilful sinners will die in the Millennium. R1073:2
Ezekiel 18:8
Usury -- The meaning of the English word "usury" has

somewhat changed--now it indicates oppressive interest.
Formerly its meaning was, simply, interest. R1995:1
We do not understand the taking of a reasonable interest to be
usury. R1994:5
A reasonable proportion of the profit would not be usury; but
there might be circumstances where even a small interest
might mean oppression and injury. R1994:6
Ezekiel 18:20
The soul that sinneth -- See comments on verse 4.

Verses 20 to 32 give the rules of the coming age. R2613:3
The son shall not bear -- Each will have an individual
trial, just as in Adam's case, and each will be sentenced for
himself. R1222:4, BR2117:4, R2606:3
No one will die again on account of another; no one live again
on account of another. R527:6*
Ezekiel 18:21
Keep all my statutes -- Implies also the pondering and

study of them. R2016:6
Shall surely live -- The evildoer, coming to God with full
repentance, is forgiven and received into God's family.
R5781:2
Verses 21 to 24 present the principle of divine justice.
R4986:5
Ezekiel 18:23
Have I any pleasure -- The destruction of the incorrigible

shows God's unceasing hatred of sin. R1782:1
Ezekiel 18:24
Not be mentioned -- If he sins wilfully, his past good

deeds will not be remembered. R5781:2
Every act, down to the last, has to do with the sentence of the
trial. R4986:5
Differing from the reasoning that a man's life should be
judged by the whole, and not by the failures in it. R2016:6
Contradicting the concept of "once in grace, always in grace."
R4971:2
Ezekiel 18:26
Dieth in them -- Unrepentant. R2017:1
Ezekiel 18:32
I have no pleasure -- Ours is a merciful God. CR277:4

He desires to "have all men to be saved." (1 Tim. 2:4) E466,
E467
The destruction of the incorrigible shows God's unceasing
hatred of sin. R1782:1
He willeth not the death of him that dieth, but would (prefer)
that all should turn unto him and live. R1026:5, R2398:6
Nevertheless, when Adam chose disobedience, God
pronounced the penalty. E468
Not that he does not "will" the death of the sinner, for it is his
will that the "soul that sinneth, it shall die." R1449:6*
God changes not. He has always had this good will toward
his creatures. E467
Him that dieth -- The Second Death is not an enemy, but a
friend. R3175:6, R1219:4, R4999:6, R1511:4; Q261:1,
Q623:6
Turn yourselves -- Choose life by complying with the
conditions on which God says we may have it. R363:1
Ezekiel 20
Ezekiel 20:5
In the day -- The day of the Passover, the first feature of

the Law. R1731:2,1
Ezekiel 20:11
I gave them -- So far as the Ten Commandments are

concerned, there is no question that they were given only to
Israel after the flesh. R1726:5, R971:4
Live In them -- Jesus' life was not taken from him because
of disobedience. He laid it down voluntarily that it might
become an asset in the hands of divine justice to be used for
mankind. R5342:4
Ezekiel 20:12
Also I gave them -- It was given to Israel. It was

something new to the Israelites, not previously known among
them or their fathers. R1731:3, R3752:3
To be a sign -- In all ages God has made covenants, with
visible signs thereof. R2032:1*
Ezekiel 20:20
And you -- You Israelites. R1731:2, R3752:6
Ezekiel 20:34
Will gather you -- Even now beginning to be fulfilled.

R1630:2
Ezekiel 20:37
Under the rod -- Israel's experiences under the chastening

rod have been painful and humiliating, but her buffeting is
almost over and soon the blessings of the new everlasting
covenant will begin to be showered upon her. PT369:5
Ezekiel 20:43
Shall ye remember -- Restored or re-created beings will

recognize themselves, and also neighbors or former
acquaintances. R604:3*
Ezekiel 20:49
Not speak parables -- "Not unto themselves but unto us

did they minister." (1 Pet. 1:12) B23
They were stated in dark and symbolic language, and linked
with events then future. To understand them then was
impossible. B23
The prophets acknowledge their own ignorance of what they
wrote. It was not for themselves, but for the instruction of the
Gospel Church, and especially for the two ends--the opening
and the closing end of the Gospel age. R1418:6
Ezekiel 21
Ezekiel 21:25
And thou -- Zedekiah, the last king of the Jewish nation.

A248; R2401:2, R3616:1; SM416:1; PD47/59
Profane wicked prince -- "Death-deserving wicked one."
(Leeser) R1372:6
Whose day is come -- 3520 years after the fall in the
Garden of Eden, and 3520 years before the end of the
Millennial age in 2914 AD. R3460:3,4*
"Seven Times," or seven symbolic years, began on the day of
Zedekiah's overthrow and are due to end October 1914.
OV80:10
Not that the Gentiles would be fully out of power by 1914,
but, their lease expiring, their eviction would begin. Biii
Have an end -- Termination of the typical kingdom of
God. R1372:6
Ezekiel 21:26
Take off the crown -- The Davidic crown. OV52:4;

PD47/59
The crown and diadem of authority and power. R3687:4
Because of sin, God removed his throne from the Davidic
line. R507:2
The typical crown of the typical kingdom of God. A248;
B76, B79; Q80:1, Q93:8, R507:2
Israel had proven themselves unfit for exaltation to universal
dominion, having become corrupt, vain and idolatrous. B75
From king Zedekiah in 606 BC. R5598:6, R5406:2;
SM416:2; Q80:1; B79
God gave the lease of earthly power to Nebuchadnezzar and
his successors. SM478:T, R5328:5, R5526:1
God actually removed his typical kingdom to permit
Nebuchadnezzar's government to become universal; for it
would be impossible for the Gentiles to have universal sway
so long as God's kingdom, even in a typical form, existed.
R1979:1
In 606 BC, at the midpoint between the ending of Adam's
1000-year day and the 1000-year day of the second Adam.
R3460:3*
Not be the same -- I will discontinue this order of things.
Q79:2; R166:1*, R419:5
Him that is low -- Humble. R2401:2
The line of Nathan. E133
Him that is high -- Proud. R2401:2
The line of Solomon. E133
Ezekiel 21:27
Overturn, overturn -- Satan's earthly empires. R362:5

Completely overturn Solomon's line. E133
The typical kingdom of God. A248; R1979:1, R4497:3,
R4833:4, R5673:4; Q83:1
First to Babylon, then to Medo-Persia, then to Grecia, then to
Rome. B76, B79; R5673:4
First at the Babylonian captivity, 606 BC; second at the
destruction of Jerusalem, AD 70; third will be the one spoken
of in Zech. 14. R107:6*
The new King (The Christ, complete) will dethrone and bind
the former prince of the power of the air, Satan, and
accomplish the final overturning. R362:1
The overturning of Zedekiah's government until the
establishment of Messiah's Kingdom, corresponding to the
2520 years' lease to the Gentiles. R5526:2, R2977:1,
R4867:2, R5564:3, R5598:6, R5710:3, R1979:2, R4497:3;
CR41:3; PD47/59; HG48:1
Shall be no more -- It shall not belong to anyone.
R1372:6
There has been no king of Israel from Zedekiah's day to the
present--the overturning has been very thorough. The kings
of Israel at the first advent were not Israelitish nor of
Israelitish birth, but appointees of Gentile governments.
R3259:5, R4867:4; Q79:2, Q93:8; OV52:4; CR139:4
It was to remain overturned until Christ, the rightful heir,
should claim it. Thus, inferentially, any claims by others to
be "kingdoms of God" are spurious. A249
There has been no earthly kingdom of God from that time
onward. Q79:2
During which time kings and emperors did not reign by the
grace of God, though he permitted various experiments at
self-government for an appointed time. R1094:5
Though restored to national existence by Cyrus, they were
subjects and tribute-payers to the successive empires of
Medo-Persia, Greece and Rome. A248
Until he come -- Until Messiah himself, at his second
advent, shall take the throne as the antitypical Son of David.
CR41:3
The Christ, Messiah. R166:1, R419:5, R5328:4, R5589:3;
SM478:T; Bix
The glorified Christ, Jesus and the Church. R3616:2,
R1979:1; SM416:1; HG675:6
The great Prophet, Priest, King and Judge. R2609:1
The immediate beginning of the legal restoration of the Jews
by the Anglo-Saxon treaty is circumstantial and visible
evidence that "he whose right it is" has come. R82:2*
The "Times of the Gentiles" applying to the interval between
the removal of the typical kingdom and the establishment of
its antitype, the true Kingdom, when Christ comes to be
glorified in his saints. B73; A249
The treading down of Jerusalem would then cease. R5328:5
Whose right it is -- In whose hands is the shaping of the
destinies of nations and individuals. R1619:3
I will give it him -- The dominion is about to be given.
R5489:4
We believe that the time for the giving of the Kingdom to the
Messiah is near at hand. (1915 comment) R5680:2
1914 is the date when Christendom will lose its crown and
when he "whose right it is" will take his great power and
reign. R3574:1*, R4867:5
Speedily following the introduction of the Millennial
judgment reign. R2609:1
We are not to expect that this transfer will come as a flash of
lightning it will require a little time. R5328:5
The time of trouble will be the natural consequence of the
transfer of rulership from the devil, the prince of this world,
to "him whose right it is." R592:2
For an inheritance. (Psa. 2:8) D12
At, or during, the sounding of the seventh and last trump.
(Rev. 11: 15) HG20:1
Has the Kingdom begun in any sense of the word? We so
believe. The light now going forth is under the direction of
the Captain of our Salvation. R5567:3
"And there was given him dominion and glory and a kingdom,
that all people, nations and languages should serve him."
(Dan. 7:14) R2609:1; OV83:4
"And the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom."
(Dan. 7:22) R2609:1
Ezekiel 22
Ezekiel 22:4
A reproach -- This is Christendom's unhappy lot at the

present time. D72
Ezekiel 22:28
Thus saith the Lord -- The Lord reproves very sharply

some who recklessly use this expression to give weight to
their own imaginings or opinions. R1481:4*
Ezekiel 28
Ezekiel 28:2
Prince of Tyrus -- Verses 1 to 10 give an exact description

of the Pope of Rome, who is Satan's vicegerent on earth.
R1237:1*
Tyre represents the kingdom of Satan. R1237:1*
Ezekiel 28:3
Than Daniel -- Whose great wisdom is thus acknowledged

by Ezekiel, Daniel's contemporary. R3630:3
Ezekiel 28:12
The king of Tyrus -- Symbolizing Satan. R3187:2*

Verses 11 to 19 give a description of Satan. R1237:1*
Ezekiel 28:14
Anointed cherub -- Satan was created an angel of a very

high order. OV298:2; R3187:2*
Ezekiel 28:15
Iniquity was found -- Then estrangement from God

becomes rapid. OV298:3
Ezekiel 28:16
Mountain of God -- Kingdom of God. A318

Covering cherub -- Of the highest order of angels,
glorious and beautiful. OV15:3; SM95:1; Q826:T
Ezekiel 28:25
When I shall -- Very shortly to be brought to pass, and is

even now beginning to be fulfilled. R1630:2
Ezekiel 28:26
Executed judgments -- Under the righteous reign of "The

Christ" before the great "white throne" of truth. R541:5*
Ezekiel 29
Ezekiel 29:6
Of Egypt -- Of the world. R1828:2

A staff of reed -- Better far will be those who lean not
upon Egypt for help, but who lean upon the Lord. R1828:2
Ezekiel 29:21
I cause the horn -- Power. T42
Ezekiel 31
Ezekiel 31:15
In the day when he -- Literal and modern mystic Babylon.

E372; R2599:5
E372; R2599:5, R2600:3
In it (Sheol) the dead are spoken of as asleep or inert, or as
deprived of the honor and power which they had in life.
R828:6*
Sheol--variously translated "hell," "grave" and "pit." There is
no evidence that the word had more than one significance or
that its later signification was different from its earlier.
R828:6*
The old-time nation of Babylon was overthrown by the
Medes and Persians and went into oblivion, into the death
state as a nation. E372
Ezekiel 31:16
Down to hell -- Sheol, oblivion, death. E372; R2599:5

And all the trees -- Showing that not only people are to be
found in "hell." HG556:2, HG734:5*
Ezekiel 32
Ezekiel 32:7
Cover the heaven -- The powers of spiritual control.

A318; D591
Make the stars -- The apostolic lights. D591
Will cover the sun -- The Gospel light, the Truth--Christ

Jesus. D590
And the moon -- The light of the Mosaic Law. D590
Not give her light -- Truth. A20
Ezekiel 32:21
The strong -- El, mighty ones, a name sometimes applied

to Jehovah. E69, E66
"El" is sometimes, as here, used in connection with inanimate
things. E69
Among the mighty -- The mighty nations which perished
previously. E372
Shall speak to him -- To Egypt, by the voice of history.
E372
The midst of hell -- Sheol, oblivion, death, not torment.
E372; R2599:5
Representing Egypt's overthrow as a nation to join Babylon in
destruction--buried. R2599:5
Ezekiel 32:27
Gone down to hell -- Sheol, oblivion, death, not torment.

E372; R2599:5
With their weapons -- "He maketh wars to cease." (Psa.
46:9) E372
Showing that they take these weapons with them into "hell."
HG556:2, HG734:5*
Under their heads -- The grave is the only "hell" where
fallen ones lie with their weapons of war under their heads.
R2599:5
Ezekiel 33
Ezekiel 33:6
The watchman -- When the foundations of all our faith are

assailed, we lay aside mildness and cry aloud so as at once to
arouse all Israel to the danger of the hour. R425:6, R431:6
Be not warned -- It is our duty to warn against selfishness,
our most imminent danger--our greatest enemy. R548:3
Ezekiel 33:7
O son of man -- Applying to any steward of the Lord.

R1558:6
Ezekiel 33:8
If thou dost not speak -- There can be no compromise of

truth, no mixing of it with human philosophies to make it
more palatable or to avoid any measure of otherwise
inevitable persecution. R1558:6
His blood will I require -- "I am pure from the blood of all
men, for I have not shunned to declare unto you all the
counsel of God." (Acts 20:26, 27) R1558:6
Ezekiel 33:11
Say unto them -- The world of mankind in the incoming

age. R2613:3
I have no pleasure -- "The Lord is not willing that any
should perish." (2 Pet. 3:9) R1449:6*
Not that he does not "will" the death of the sinner, for it is his
will that the "soul that sinneth, it shall die." R1449:6*
Death of the wicked -- Second Death. R904:3
In mercy God will blot such out of existence. R605:5,
R3083:5
Only when they absolutely refuse to be rightly exercised by
the discipline of the Lord will he administer the final
punishment which forever blots them out of existence.
R904:3
This will be the last unpleasant duty of the Creator. R1834:1
The destruction of the incorrigible will be in demonstration of
God's unceasing hatred of sin. R1782:1, R1273:5
Turn ye -- If men in this life repent of sin and continue the
work of reformation to the best of their ability, they will reap
the benefit of so doing in the age to come. R722:5, R2613:3
Why will ye die -- "See, I have set before thee this day life
and death." (Deut. 30:19) R401:1*
Ezekiel 33:12
His transgression -- If he sin wilfully, his past good deeds

shall not be remembered. R5781:2
That he turneth -- The evildoer, coming to God with full
repentance, is forgiven and received into God's family.
R5781:2
Ezekiel 33:13
Not be remembered -- The crown of life is promised to

those who shall prove themselves faithful, even until death.
R1699:6
He shall die for it -- There is a possibility of failure in the
Millennial age. R401:2*
If one should make a covenant with God and then fail to keep
that covenant he would lose his covenant relationship with
God as soon as he abrogated the contract. Q288:5
Ezekiel 33:15
If the wicked restore -- Godly sorrow for the wrong,

turning from the wrong, and then, as far as possible, making
the wrong right--that is repentance. R747:6*
Shall surely live -- This principle applies at the present
time to those who pass from death unto life as New Creatures;
but it especially applies to the Millennial age. R4971:2;
Q288:5
Ezekiel 33:16
Shall be mentioned -- His past evil is entirely ignored,

except as it may bear its fruit in certain weaknesses of mind
and body. R5781:2
Ezekiel 34
Ezekiel 34:2
Shepherds of Israel -- All who accept the position of

elders are, to some extent, representing the Lord, who is the
Great Shepherd of the flock. R5389:4
Hireling shepherds of the pulpit. D62; HG715:6
Greedy, ignorant, lazy teachers. F287
Feed themselves -- Divide amongst themselves the spoils
of filthy lucre, honors, reverence, titles, etc. R1895:6
Many preachers have discerned the Plan but, instead of
preaching it, have hidden it, to cause themselves to shine.
R3138:4
These are warned by the Lord of his displeasure, and could
not be expected to thrive spiritually. R3138:5
Feed the flocks -- Not nominal Christians, but the true
saints of God. R5693:3
Leading them to the "green pastures" of God's Word and to
the "still waters" of divine truth. R5693:2
Ezekiel 34:3
Ye kill -- Slaughter their influence, cast out their names as

evil. R633:2
Them that are fed -- They that find pastures of truth and
feed, despite the neglect of the shepherds. R633:2
Feed not -- Their church arrangements are often especially
for the goat or tare class. R5693:3
Very few of the flock of the Lord's consecrated people any
longer seek spiritual food at their hands. R5693:6
Ezekiel 34:6
All the mountains -- Kingdoms. A318

The Lord's sheep are intermixed with various nations. R633:2
Every high hill -- Societies of earth--churches. R633:2
Or seek after them -- The shepherds sanction the scattered
and divided condition of the Lord's sheep, and claim that it is
the Chief Shepherd's will that they should be separated in
various sects. R633:2
Ezekiel 34:8
There was no shepherd -- Preferring to act a lie, to

destroy the faith of the too-confident sheep whom they lead
and whose praise and money they enjoy. SM298:1
Ezekiel 34:10
The shepherds -- Theological professors and pastors, by

not explaining the meaning of the Hebrew and Greek words
Sheol and hades, have permitted God's character and plan to
be traduced. R2598:6
Require my flock at -- Take my flock from. R633:1,
R2599:1
Cease from feeding -- They shall not continue to be God's
mouthpieces, nor shepherd his flock. R2599:1
Feed themselves -- Upon the husks of science and man-made
theology, and in honoring each other with titles.
R633:2
Ezekiel 34:11
Behold, I, even I -- Behold I am here and will enquire for

my flock. R633:1
Ezekiel 34:12
In the day -- The "Day of the Lord." R487:3

He is among -- Present among. R487:3
Will I seek out -- This is having a fulfillment in the
gathering of the sheep of both folds, natural and spiritual
Israelites, out of their respective bondages and dispersions.
R487:3
Will deliver them -- Mark well that this will be when he is
present, "here," and "among his flocks that are scattered."
R633:2, R5693:6
Cloudy and dark day -- The Day of the Lord, the time of
trouble. R487:3, R633:2
Ezekiel 34:13
Gather them -- He is about to complete his flock of this

Gospel age. R5693:6
Their own land -- The homeland of the Lord's sheep of
this Gospel age is heaven itself. R5694:1
Ezekiel 34:14
A good fold -- The whole world will become "the fold."

R5694:6
Ezekiel 34:15
Will feed my flock -- This promised feeding of the Lord's

flock is now taking place. R633:4
Ezekiel 34:16
With judgment -- A righteous recompense. R5694:3
Ezekiel 34:17
O my flock -- The beguiling of the attention of the flock

from the one true shepherd to a fellow sheep is not always the
fault of the leaders. There is a tendency of those of the sheep
nature to follow one another. R2080:2, R5694:3
The rams -- Elders in the church. R5389:1
The he goats -- Whenever any one manifests the goat
disposition the ecclesia should strictly avoid making him a
leader. R5389:4
Owners of sheep sometimes use a goat as leader of the flock
because a goat is more combative than a sheep, and thus
supplies the sheep courage. R5389:4
Ezekiel 34:18
The deep waters -- Of truth. R3076:1; C65
Ezekiel 34:19
They eat that -- Each sheep must see to it that he eats only
"clean provender" and drinks only "pure water" as directed by
the Shepherd. R2080:4
Ezekiel 34:20
I, will judge -- This already has begun in respect to the

Gospel Church. R5694:4
The fat cattle -- Some who have been considered quite
prominent in Christendom, pushing and managing its affairs,
will be reproved by the Lord in this day. R5694:4
The lean cattle -- The poor, the outcasts, the peculiar, are
styled his flock, which he is now gathering and feeding.
R5694:4
Ezekiel 34:22
I will judge -- See comments on verse 20.
Ezekiel 34:23
My servant David -- The Christ, Head and Body.

R5694:5
Ezekiel 34:25
The evil beasts -- The evildoers, those who will devour,

destroy and do harm. R5694:6
In the woods -- A quiet and restful condition. R5694:6
Ezekiel 34:27
Yield her increase -- In the "Times of Restitution" of

Messiah's reign. R4674:1, R1248:3; A192; HG515:1
Already we have evidence of how these scriptures may be
fulfilled. R4431:5
For the microbes of destruction and disease shall be
restrained. R1771:6
Ezekiel 36
Ezekiel 36:17
Son of man -- Ezekiel, representing the Lord in their midst,

even in the land of their captivity--for 22 years delivering
unto them the word of the Lord. R1373:4, R2503:1
Ezekiel 36:20
Profaned my holy name -- They brought disgrace upon

the name of the Lord in all the countries whither they went.
R1373:5
Ezekiel 36:24
From among the heathen -- Out of all nations. OV67:1

And gather you -- This great regathering of all Israel to
the land of promise, which shall by and by include their risen
dead, is already begun. R1374:1
Out of all countries -- From every quarter of the world.
OV67:1
Into your own land -- Not all Jews, but some of the most
pious and zealous, will gather in Palestine. OV67:1
This unquestionably refers to the literal and final regathering
of Israel to Palestine. R1373:6
Ezekiel 36:25
Then will I -- Through the Millennial reign of Christ.

A333
Not before, but after, their return. R101:6, R1373:5
Sprinkle clean water -- Pure truth and righteous influence.
R1374:2, R101:6
Would seem to signify the application of the truth. R2503:5
Had some fulfilment in those who returned from Babylonian
captivity, who were influenced by the truth of the promises
made to the fathers. R2503:6
Cleanse you -- There will be no desire nor temptation to
idolatrous worship then. Satan shall be bound. R1374:2
In chastising, correcting, forgiving, restoring and promising to
reinstate them to his favor, he is illustrating his great love and
mercy toward the whole world. R1373:4
Ezekiel 36:26
A new heart -- Renewed, or repaired; such as belongs to

perfect manhood. R636:6, R1374:2, R5164:4
God purposes to settle the whole matter for rich and poor in
his own way--and his way must be the best way. He purposes
to change the hearts of men. R5154:6; HG578:3
The work of re-writing the divine character in the heart,
which will progress in the world for 1000 years, is already
begun in the Church. We write these qualities within our own
hearts. R5309:5
The new heart condition is essential also to spiritual Israel--to
be free from idols and separated to the Lord God. R2505:1
The creating of man was a momentary act, but the re-creating,
the re-generation, the re-newing, the re-storing of the heart
will be a gradual work. R1374:4, R2503:6
Will I give you -- Jesus did not do this at the first advent.
This was to be still a future work, the work of the Kingdom.
R5886:1
A new spirit -- Such as Adam had before sin entered.
R111:1
New will, new mind, new disposition. This must come first
before the new heart condition can be attained. R2504:3,
R2503:1
I will take away -- By means of the afflictions of the time
of trouble. R2504:1
The gradual work of the Mediatorial Kingdom by instruction
in righteousness. R5292:3, R2504:2
Sin is now written on the hearts of all humanity. This must
first be blotted out and the former image--the law of God--
reinstated before men will be perfect men. R276:4
Through the better sacrifices, the antitypical Mediator will
have the power to start the people with a clean slate. R5292:3
The stony heart -- Of self-will and self-gratification;
calloused and depraved. R2504:1, R636:6
The stony heart condition means "me," "my," "mine," "right if
I can, wrong if I must." R2504:1
Not take away their flesh and make them spiritual beings.
R276:4
It will be a time for melting and mellowing all hearts.
R1655:3
Israel is probably as much, and probably no more, affected
with the stony heart condition than any other nation. R2504:1
I will give you -- Under the New covenant, the Lord will
take away the sins and stony hearts of mankind. But the New
covenant does not become personal between God and
mankind until the Mediator steps out of the way. R4903:4
This change of heart is entirely aside from the making of the
New covenant. It will take 1000 years to remove the
stoniness out of the hearts of man and to make them stand
without a mediator. R5164:4
An heart of flesh -- The restored image of God. A310;
R276:4, R2504:2
Tender, sympathetic, generous, godlike. R3202:6, R1374:2,
R4777:2, R5154:6
Under the gracious terms of the New covenant during the
Millennium. R5947:1, R4903:4, R4309:6
This work will proceed from Israel to all the families of the
earth. R5058:5
The Mediator will have the power to start the people with a
clean slate. R5292:3
With spiritual Israel the new heart is not a heart of flesh, for
they are begotten unto the high calling to partake of the divine
nature. R2505:4
Ezekiel 36:27
Put my spirit -- A new will, mind or disposition, in

harmony with God; the spirit of righteousness, truth and love;
the spirit of grace and supplication. R2504:3,5, R1374:4
This does not refer to spiritual Israel, although spiritual Israel
has a somewhat similar experience in advance. R2504:5
The same outpouring of the holy Spirit upon fleshly Israel is
referred to by the Prophet Zechariah (Zech. 12:10) and
directly applied to the end of this age. R2504:5
Cause you to walk -- Inclining and enabling them to be
obedient. R1374:4
Ezekiel 36:28
Ye shall be my people -- All who, under the New

covenant, shall become his people, typified by Israel.
R1655:3
After he has made provision for all, only those who accept of
those New covenant favors will be recognized by him as "my
people." R1374:4
Ezekiel 36:29
Will increase it -- The land, which has been so long

desolate and unproductive, will return to its former fertility.
R107:4*
Artesian wells, irrigating canals, miracle wheat, the draining
of marshes are all evidences of how these scriptures may be
fulfilled. R4431:6
In connection with the transformation of heart and will, will
come the blessing which the Lord promised upon the earth--it
shall yield its increase. R2504:6
Many fold. R4431:6
Ezekiel 36:30
Multiply the fruit -- Burbank and others have, under

divine guidance, worked miracles in horticulture. R5058:2
Increase of the field -- In a larger sense, the renewed
earth, Paradise restored. R1374:4
Ezekiel 36:31
Shall ye remember -- The restored being will recognize

himself and neighbors of former acquaintance. R604:3
The restored ones will be reminded of their unworthiness of
the free, unmerited gifts of God. R1374:5
Ezekiel 36:32
Be ashamed -- React with confusion and repentance.

R1374:5
Ezekiel 36:35
Land that was desolate -- The land of Israel--the blessings

beginning there will illustrate divine providence operating on
behalf of those who are influenced by the truth and its spirit.
R2504:6
The garden of Eden -- The word "paradise" signifies "a
delightful garden, park or pleasure ground." The Garden of
Eden was the original Paradise, and mankind will be restored
to that Edenic condition. Q845:1
Ezekiel 36:36
Then -- In the Millennium. A333

Shall know -- As these blessings progress, all will be
witnesses of God's faithful goodness to his people. R1374:5
Ezekiel 36:37
Be inquired of -- Cooperation necessary, prayer being a

token of the soul's sincere desire. R1374:5
Like a flock -- Every soul that longs for the truth is one of
the Lord's lost sheep, and will be found during the
Millennium. R1374:5
Ezekiel 36:38
Flocks of men -- "Other sheep I have that are not of this

fold; them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice,
and there shall be one flock and one shepherd." (John 10:16)
R1374:5
Ezekiel 37
Ezekiel 37:1
The hand -- Power. R2505:3

This passage of Scripture regarding the dry bones was
addressed to fleshly Israel when in Babylon. R2505:2
Midst of the valley -- The valley of Jehoshaphat, typifying
Adamic Death. R2908:2
Representing the captivity in Babylon. R2505:2
Was full of bones -- Captive Israelites, the whole twelve
tribes. R2505:3
This was a vision, not literal. R2505:3
This vision does not refer to the literal resurrection of the
dead, but to the restoration of the dead hopes of the Jewish
nation and their gradual reanimation as a people. Q584:4
The dry bones represented the Israelites themselves. R2505:2
Ezekiel 37:3
Can these bones live? -- Is there any hope for the scattered
people of Israel that they will ever be restored as a nation?
R2505:5
Lord...thou knowest -- Any hope must come from God.

R2505:5
Ezekiel 37:4
Prophesy -- Ezekiel was to declare the divine message,

foretelling what was to come to pass. R2505:5
Ye dry bones -- Of hope of again becoming a nation.
PD53/65
Ezekiel 37:5
Cause breath -- Ruach, spirit of life, life-energy. E315

Ye shall live -- Not referring to a literal resurrection, but to
the revival of Israel's hopes in the divine promises. R5503:3;
Q584:4; PD53/65
Ezekiel 37:6
Sinews -- Of strength. PD53/65

Flesh -- Of comeliness. PD53/65
Skin -- Completion. PD53/65
And put breath -- Ruach. E316
Be infused with the spirit of the Lord as the breath or energy
of national life, begotten of faith in the promises, and standing
again as a nation. R2505:6
Ye shall live -- Though a symbol, it shows that a human
organism has no life until it receives the ruach, the breath of
life, which is common to all animals--none of them can live
without it. E316
Ezekiel 37:7
A noise and...a shaking -- The Revised Version renders

this: "Thunder and an earthquake." R2505:6
The commotions incident to the fall of Babylon and the
transfer of the empire to the Medes and Persians, typifying
the coming time of trouble. R2505:6
There is a commotion amongst those who are spiritual
Israelites indeed, whose Kingdom hopes are now being
revived. R2506:4
The great noise is the "seventh trumpet" which has begun to
sound. R2506:1
The bones came together -- Now in progress among the
Jewish people through Zionism. PD53/65
Ezekiel 37:8
No breath -- Ruach. E317
Ezekiel 37:9
Unto the wind -- Ruach, spirit of life, life-energy--margin,

breath. E317
Four winds -- Ruach. E317
O breath -- Ruach. E317
Ezekiel 37:10
Great army -- A nation. R2505:6
Ezekiel 37:11
Whole house of Israel -- The whole twelve tribes.

R2505:3
No longer to be considered as two distinct nations. R2505:3
The rest of the world is typified by the "whole house of
Israel." R1377:2*
Our hope is lost -- Does not refer to the literal
resurrection, but to the revival of Israel's hopes in the divine
promises. R5503:3; Q584:4; PD53/65
Of being God's favored people and the heir of the promises
made to Abraham. R2505:3
Of ever again becoming a nation. PD53/65; R2505:3
We have lost heart, our ambitions are all gone, or are asleep.
R4788:5, R2505:2
A lesson might also be drawn for spiritual Israelites, who, for
centuries, lost sight of Kingdom hopes for blessing the whole
world of mankind. R2506:2
For our parts -- From our parts, from all tribal and
national union. R2505:3
Ezekiel 37:12
I will open your graves -- Where the dead sleep, waiting

for an awakening. SM39:T
Blinded, stumbled Israel is still there. R4781:2
Restitution is spoken of by the mouth of all the holy prophets.
R545:3
The various provinces of Babylonia in which your national
hopes are buried by your captivity; foreshadowing the general
scattering among all nations. R2506:1
Out of your graves -- Israel will be regathered out from all
the nations whither they have been scattered, and also come
out from the graves. R1630:2, R1652:4
The fulness of Israel will finally embrace the dead as well as
the living. R107:3*, R1378:4, R1466:6
The power is with God to bring men to life again. R536:4
They go into the tomb as individuals, as everyone else; but as
a nation also they have gone into the tomb--especially since
AD 70. R4788:5
The land of Israel -- Then Abraham will realize the
reward of his faith. R1652:4
The present land of Palestine is a very small part of the
promised land, which is to stretch from the Nile to the
Euphrates (Gen. 15:18), and appears to include Arabia, as
well as parts of Egypt and the Sudan--an area equal to the half
of Europe. Q792:2
Ezekiel 37:13
Ye shall know -- Be delivered from blindness and brought

to that full, clear knowledge which will render every man
without excuse and fully responsible for his choice of life
through obedience to Christ. R4781:3
When -- During the Millennial day. C260; A108
Ezekiel 37:14
Put my spirit -- Ruach. E317

In your own land -- The land of Palestine. C260;
R1373:6
Ezekiel 37:17
Join them -- No longer to be considered as two distinct

nations, but henceforth as a reunited nation. R2505:3
Shall become one -- This was done to show that the exiles
of Israel (carried away to Babylon BC 722, when Samaria
was destroyed) were to unite with the captives of Judah.
R4893:5
Ezekiel 37:20
The sticks -- Two sticks representing the divided people.

R2084:4
Ezekiel 37:21
Will gather them -- With the fulfilment of their "double."

SM398:T
This verse of Scripture appears on the official medal for the
second Zionist conference in 1898. R2362:5*
Ezekiel 37:22
One nation -- No "ten lost tribes," for whom there has

been so much seeking. R4893:5
Ezekiel 37:24
David my servant -- David's posterity, Christ. C257
Ezekiel 37:25
Given unto Jacob -- Natural Israel. A300
Ezekiel 37:26
Covenant of peace -- The New covenant. R101:6,

R282:6, R4371:3
Sanctuary -- Dwelling--the Church. R102:1, R111:1
Ezekiel 38
Ezekiel 38:2
Gog -- The merciless plunderers of regathered Israel.

D554
Representing the "all nations" of Zech. 14:2. D555
Magog...Meshech...Tubal -- Descendants of Japheth,
Europeans. D556
Ezekiel 38:5
Persia, Ethiopia, and Libya -- The very ones now

occupying Egypt, Palestine and the east--and all these nations
are Mohammedans. HG89:4
Ezekiel 38:6
Gomer...Togarmah -- Descendants of Japheth, Europeans.

D556
Of the north quarters -- Possibly Russia. HG89:5
Ezekiel 38:8
After many days -- Gathering of Israel to Palestine within

this Harvest period. D553
Gathered out -- Indicating that Palestine would be
released from Turkish oppression, and the Jews persecuted
and driven out of various countries, before the great climax of
trouble. R2056:1
During the Day of the Lord when the first return of the
Israelites to Palestine shall have taken place (a second and
greater returning evidently will not take place until after the
time of trouble). R286:3
Dwell safely -- At the time when the rest of the world is in
its wildest confusion. D553
Ezekiel 38:11
And thou -- Gog--Europeans, with Asiatic and African

allies. D555, D556
Unwalled villages -- An open, defenseless condition.
D554
That are at rest -- Regathered Israel during the time of
trouble. D553
Ezekiel 38:12
To take a spoil -- Toward, or at the close of the time of

trouble. R148:4, R410:1
For "the day of the Lord cometh, when thy spoil shall be
divided in the midst of thee." (Zech. 14:1) R148:4
Many Jews have doubtless gone to Palestine, not out of
respect to God's promises, but, realizing the dangers to which
property will be exposed, have chosen to be far away from
the strongholds of communism. R26:5, R410:1, R593:1
Their wealth and prosperity excite the cupidity of the nations.
R286:3, R2056:1
To pillage and rob the wealthy Jews. R26:4, R410:1
Palestine must become wealthy to permit fulfilment. R1846:4
Ezekiel 38:13
Sheba and Dedan -- Descendants of Ham, North Africans.

D556
Tarshish -- Descendants of Japheth, Europeans. D556
Ezekiel 38:15
The north parts -- Europe and Asia. D555
Ezekiel 38:16
In the latter days -- Literally, the last of the days. D555

The closing scenes of the day of trouble. D555
Sanctified in thee -- Set apart, distinguished as thy
conqueror. D555
Ezekiel 38:18
My fury shall come up -- The destruction of Israel's

enemies can only be compared to the terrible overthrow of
Pharoah and his hosts when seeking to repossess themselves
of Israel whom God was delivering. D556
Ezekiel 38:20
The fishes -- The men. C214

Of the sea -- Masses of mankind not under religious
restraint. R333:1
Fowls of the heaven -- Satan and his agents. R2634:6,
R817:3; C162
Beasts of the field -- Symbol of Gentile governments.
A261
The mountains -- Kingdoms. A318; R5992:1
And every wall -- Civil power. D40
Ezekiel 38:21
I will call -- The Lord shall again fight for Israel. R1747:1
Every man's sword -- National animosities will become
personal animosities. R5852:5
The disconcerted hosts will effect the complete disruption of
the present order of things. R5604:5, R5790:6
Against his brother -- An outbreak of jealousy, revolution
and anarchy amongst the various elements composing the
mixed army, which will complete the universal insurrection
and anarchy--the great earthquake of Rev. 16:18-21. D557
The spirit of anarchy will spread from nations to individuals.
OV419:4
Ezekiel 38:23
They shall know -- The miraculous overthrow of Gog will

demonstrate to the world that Christ's Kingdom has come.
R4751:3*
Ezekiel 39
Ezekiel 39:1
Gog -- Russia. R107:5*

That Russia and Great Britain were likely to come into
conflict before the end of Gentile times was noted in Scripture
in association with the prophecy of this chapter. R2056:6
Ezekiel 39:21
See my judgment -- In the deliverance of regathered

Israel. D557, R4751:3*
Ezekiel 39:23
Heathen shall know -- The purpose of the trouble is for

Israel's own good and the good of the nations. R107:5*
Against me -- In rejecting Christ. D557
Of their enemies -- For all the centuries of the Christian
dispensation. D557
Ezekiel 39:25
Therefore -- Now that the punishment is completed. D557

Captivity of Jacob -- Natural Israel. A300
The whole house -- Living and dead. D557
Ezekiel 39:26
They have borne -- They have (thus) borne. D558
Ezekiel 39:28
Led into captivity -- Exiled. D558
Ezekiel 40
Ezekiel 40:2
Very high mountain -- Kingdom. A318

On the south -- Symbol of restitution to perfect humanity.
D653
Ezekiel 41
Ezekiel 41:1
To the temple -- The fourth temple. R1297:1
Ezekiel 43
Ezekiel 43:4
Into the house -- Representing the glorification of the

Church. R3625:1
Ezekiel 44
Ezekiel 44:1
And it was shut -- Representing the closing of the door in

the parable of the ten virgins. R3625:1
Ezekiel 44:11
Ministers -- The Great Company, servants of the true

Church, on a heavenly plane of existence. R4079:6*
Ezekiel 44:14
Keepers -- The Great Company. R4079:6*
Ezekiel 46
Ezekiel 46:24
Boil the sacrifice -- In the beginning of the Millennial age,

God may restore some of the features of the Jewish Law to
serve as object lessons. R1732:6, R2488:6
We think it unlikely that typical sacrifices will be restored.
R2488:6
Ezekiel 47
Ezekiel 47:1
Afterward -- During the Millennial day. D655

After the closing of the door to the High Calling shown in
Ezek. 44:1. R3625:1
Not until the glory of the Lord shall have entered the Temple,
not until the Church will be glorified, not until the door will
be forever shut, will the water of life issue forth. R3625:2
Of the house -- The Temple of God, the Church glorified.
R3625:1, R4882:3
Waters issued out -- Truth; blessings of refreshment and
restitution. R5846:2, R4882:3, R2508:3
Not the Gospel, flowing at the present time, but Millennial
age blessings. R3625:1, R2507:5
"There is a river, the rivulets of which shall spring from the
city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most
High." (Psa. 46:4) R2508:5
"Living waters shall go out from Jerusalem." (Zech. 14:8)
D650
"Water of life, clear as crystal" (Rev. 22:1)--Restitution
blessings. D665
"He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his
belly shall flow rivers of living water." (John 7:38) R2508:4
Under the threshold -- There was a fountain connected
with the Temple hill but it never was of any considerable size
and never will be without a miracle. R2507:3
From the right side -- The Temple, the Church, is not yet
completed; so there is no river yet. R2508:2
Ezekiel 47:5
Waters were risen -- Rapidly increasing; the rapid

increase of the blessings of the Lord as soon as his time shall
have come. R3625:2
Ezekiel 47:7
Very many trees -- The description of the river and trees

is so similar to the Millennial age blessings of Rev. 21 and 22
as to leave no doubt that the same thing is referred to.
R3625:1
Ezekiel 47:8
Toward the east -- Open to the Sun of Righteousness.

D653
Go into the sea -- The restless, turbulent masses of
mankind. A318
Dead Sea, representing a class submerged in ignorance,
superstition and degradation. R4882:6,3
The vast multitude of mankind which has gone into the tomb.
R3625:4, R2508:2
Shall be healed -- Revived, recovered from its deadness.
The water of life, flowing from the church, shall reach even
those in the tomb, awakening them to opportunities of
restitution. R4882:3, R3625:4, R2508:1,2
A possible literal fulfilment of this may be the opening of a
channel from the Mediterranean to the Dead Sea. R3625:4,
R2507:2,3,5
Ezekiel 47:9
That every thing -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being. E335

Multitude of fish -- Men-those reached by the Gospel.
R3625:4
Whither the river cometh -- The wilderness east of
Jerusalem, representing the condition of all the families of the
earth. R2508:2
Ezekiel 47:12
Grow all trees -- Seems to demand a literal interpretation

as well as a symbolic one--a return to Paradisaic conditions.
R2507:5
Refers to the Millennial age. R2508:4
Also see comments on Ezek. 47:7
Whose leaf -- Representing restitution. R3625:4
The fruit -- Representing the abundance of instruction and
encouragement--mental, moral and physical. R3625:4
For meat -- For the sustenance of everlasting life.
R4882:6
For medicine -- Healing the repentant peoples of earth of
all imperfections. D656
Ezekiel 48
Ezekiel 48:1
From the north -- A new division of the land of Canaan

among the twelve tribes. R2507:2
Ezekiel 48:35
The LORD is there -- Jehovah-shammah, the Wonder of

Jehovah. E43
Daniel
General
Daniel is set before us in the Scriptures as one whom the
Lord loved. Daniel was carried captive with Jehoiachim, king
of Judah, and many of the nobility of the land of Israel,
eleven years before the final captivity in the days of
Zedekiah, when the land was left desolate without an
inhabitant, and the seventy years of desolation began. Daniel
was fourteen years old when carried captive to Babylon, and
consequently lived to the extreme age of over one hundred
years. R2492:3
Young Jewish captives proving their qualifications were
given every opportunity to use their talents for the benefit of
the nation adopting them. Daniel became Prime Minister in
Babylon; and others of the Jewish captives attained to the
rank of presidents of different divisions of the Babylonian
empire. R5796:2 We may here learn a lesson of how God is
able to make even the disasters of life work out blessings for
those who are truly loyal to him even as Daniel and his
companions were blessed and prospered in the enemy's land,
and advanced to positions far higher than they ever would
have attained in their own land. R4873:1 What heroic
examples of godly zeal and fortitude, and of friendship
cemented by the bonds of a common noble purpose. Four
young men devoted to God mutually agree to set their faces
like a flint against temptation, and to live righteously and
godly in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation; and
truly they have shone as lights, not only in their own day, but
down even to the present time. R1708:6
History tells us that ancient Babylon was captured by
Cyrus the Great and his army after a siege of considerable
length, which was unsuccessful until his soldiers digged a
fresh channel for the river and turned aside its course. Thus
was the River Euphrates dried up; and the Medo-Persian army
entered the ancient city suddenly in the night, while the
princes of Babylon, corresponding to the notables of
Christendom, were holding high carnival. The strong
symbolic language used in respect to Mystic Babylon
corresponds so well to the prophetic language respecting
ancient Babylon that we are warranted in understanding that
city to have been a prototype of Mystic Babylon and her fall a
prefigure of Christendom's fall. SM410, SM411
The book of Daniel, as we have it in our common version
of the Bible, corresponds to that which was accepted by the
Jews, but attached to it were three stories-- "Bel and the
Dragon," "The Song of the Three Hebrew Children," and
"The Story of Susannah," which have nothing whatever to do
with Daniel, and which bear no marks of being his production
nor give any evidence of inspiration. The book is one against
which the Higher Critics have thrown and are still throwing
the weight of their influence--they claim it was not written
until long after the time of Daniel and was merely given his
name. Strangely enough these grounds of objection become
to us, who have a different view of the meaning of those
prophecies, one of the strongest evidences possible of the
inspiration of the writer. Certainly no prophet ever described
more particularly the great events of universal history,
certainly none ever marked more clearly and distinctly than
did Daniel the precise time of the first advent of Messiah.
The prophet Ezekiel, Daniel's contemporary associated in the
exile, twice referred to him in his prophecy, classing him with
Noah and Job. He mentions expressly Daniel's great wisdom.
R3630:1,2; PD89/103
Daniel 1
Daniel 1:1
In the third year -- Daniel was carried captive with

Jehoiachim, king of Judah, eighteen years before the final
captivity in the days of Zedekiah. R2492:3, R4873:1;
Q80:1, Q94:2; HG58:1, HG518:5
Eleven years before Zedekiah. R2492:3*; B52
Of Jehoiakim -- Often, by misinterpretation, applied to the
times of Antiochus Epiphanes. R3630:1
Came Nebuchadnezzar -- From this passage, we fix the
date of Nebuchadnezzar's reign from the Bible date of
Jehoiakim's reign. R1976:3
Daniel 1:3
The king -- Illustrating the King of Glory. R4873:5

That he should bring -- Nothing gives us a higher opinion
of the kings of ancient times, their willingness to recognize
character and merit wherever it might be found, than does the
record furnished in the book of Daniel. R2501:1, R3638:6
Of the children of Israel -- With a two-fold object: to
associate with the empire the learning and skill of the world,
and to promote a friendly feeling between Babylon and the
countries over which it held sway. R2493:1
Daniel 1:4
Children -- An illustration of Christians in this Gospel

age. R4873:5
In the king's palace -- Young Jewish captives were given
opportunity to use their talents for the benefit of Babylon.
R5796:2
To be fitted to constitute a board of wise men, counselors to
the king. R4873:1
Teach the learning -- Illustration of the school of Christ.
R4873:5
A three-year course of education in the sciences. R2493:1
Daniel 1:5
The king's meat -- So that, being well nourished, they

might be in their best physical and mental condition.
R4873:2, R5796:2
They shared in the food prepared for the royal family.
R5796:2
Good food--better probably, than they had been used to
previously. R2493:5
Daniel 1:6
Daniel -- "God is my judge." R2493:2, R3630:3

The names of the four young men (about 16 years of age)
imply a parentage that was reverential and loyal to God.
R3630:3
Daniel was 14 years old when carried captive to Babylon.
R2492:3
He had a noble, amiable, winsome character. R2493:2
Hananiah -- "God is gracious," "Jehovah is gracious."
R2493:2, R3630:3
Mishael -- "This is as God," "God-like." R2493:2,
R3630:3
Azariah -- "God is a helper," "Jehovah has helped."
R2493:2, R3630:3
These four were evidently of noble birth and religious
training. R4873:1, R2493:2
Chosen because of their brightness and general intelligence to
be specialty educated for governmental positions. R3630:4
Daniel 1:7
Gave names -- Changing their names by no means

changed their hearts, no more than did their being transported
from the land of promise to Babylon. R3630:4
They were given these new names to break their identity with
their native homes and establish an identity with the kingdom
of Babylon. R2493:2
These new Babylonish names implied relationship or
servitude to the deities of Babylonia. R3630:4
Daniel 1:8
But Daniel purposed -- Of the four, Daniel seems, from

the first, to have been leader, and his leading seems to have
been in the right direction. R2493:4
In his heart -- The faithful, like Daniel, will set
themselves to the attainment of their object at any cost. Their
faith tells them that their object is worthy of their effort.
R3631:4
All who receive the grace of God into good and honest hearts
will surely experience a cleansing work. R3631:6
The Lord places us frequently where we have opportunities of
choosing. It becomes a matter of character or principle with
us what we choose. There is no virtue in choosing the only
thing possible. R3631:3
Not defile himself -- Physically or mentally, by eating such
rich food; morally, by eating what had been offered to idols.
R3630:5
To eat the king's meat would imply to the people that the
young men were receiving blessings from the heathen gods.
R5796:4
Daniel's objection to the food was instigated wholly by
religious duty, because of varieties forbidden under the Law.
R2493:5
They would rather deny themselves than violate God's Law,
indicating a mental and moral discipline. R2493:6
It is a mistake to suppose that high living is specially
conducive to intellectuality--not to mention spirituality.
R4873:2
Clean spiritual provender is important to the Lord's flock.
Those who come to a knowledge of the truth must abstain
from all defiled spiritual food and from mingling with the
Babylonians at their table. R2494:4
The Bible regulates the Christian in respect to what he eats,
drinks, where he goes, what he does, what he reads, his
companionship and even his very thoughts. R5796:5
The abstemious course, self-denial, self-restraint, is all
important to the upbuilding of the character likeness of Christ.
R3631:2
Sobriety and self-denial mean the king's favor, bringing
satisfaction and restfulness of heart and mind, and peace with
God and our consciences. R3631:5
"Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and
spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." (2 Cor. 7:1)
R3631:6
To be cleansed from filthiness of the spirit--evil thoughts,
hatred, malice, strife, revenge, backbiting, evil speaking--is
most important. R3632:1, R3631:6
How careful all should be not to bring into the church errors
and false doctrines, misrepresentations of Scripture, to defile
or stumble or injure any of the Lord s little ones. R3631:5
We should be careful to have our bodies as clean, pure and
holy as possible. R3631:6
We must fight against our own appetites in all the affairs of
life. R3631:2
"If any man defile the temple of God, him will God destroy."
(1 Cor. 3:17) R3631:5
King's meat -- Daniel recognized that his health of mind
and body would be better if he abstained from these.
R3630:5
The Bible does not prohibit the use of flesh food. Our Lord
and the apostles ate meat. R5796:3
Nor with the wine -- Gluttony and the use of alcoholic
liquors stupefy the brain. R3631:1
The Scriptures do not forbid alcoholic liquors, but they
indicate a blessing upon those who abstain, as well as upon
eunuchs. R5796:4
A lesson in favor of total abstinence from intoxicants.
R1403:1
Daniel 1:9
Daniel -- Specially favored of the Lord with visions and

revelations. R2493:2
Into favour -- Because of his meekness. gentleness and
general nobility of character. R5796:2, R4873:2, R2493:2
This favor meant the jealousy and enmity of his associates.
R3631:4
Whosoever will live godly in the present time shall suffer
persecution. R3631:4
Prince of the eunuchs -- The steward having charge of the
students. R3630:6
Daniel 1:10
Endanger my head -- Not only cost him his position, but

his very life. R3630:6
Daniel 1:11
To Melzar -- To the Melzar, the butler. R2493:6
Daniel 1:12
Prove thy servants -- They were seeking to develop

characters in accord with the will of God for a better earthly
Seeking a course that not only would have divine approval,
but also cause as little trouble, inconvenience and displeasure
to others as possible. R2493:6
As ours will be a higher reward, our trial of faith will be more
crucial. R3631:3
Give us pulse -- Very plain and inexpensive vegetable diet.
R2493:5, R4873:3, R5796:3
Vegetables, particularly peas and beans, which contain all the
elements necessary for proper nutrition. R5796:3, R3630:5
Nothing is gained by simply abstaining from Babylonian
portions and starving spiritually. Whoever abstains from the
defiled food must seek and use the simple and undefiled food
which the Lord provides. R2494:5
It is well nigh impossible to be strong in willpower in respect
to important things if lax and pliable in respect to the less
important. R2494:1
Christians are left to their own judgments as to what food
would best nourish them for the Lord's service. R5796:3,
R4873:6
Daniel 1:15
Countenances appeared fairer -- There is a general

operation of divine law that whosoever seeks to live
conscientiously, cleanly, honestly, will have compensations in
his own heart and life. R5796:5
Daniel 1:16
Melzar took away -- To the amusement of their associates,

who would consider them foolish for choosing simple fare
when they might have king's food. R3631:1
Daniel 1:17
Children -- Youths. R4873:3

Knowledge and skill -- Not wholly miraculous under
natural laws, boys with enough character for self-denial for
righteousness' sake would also have enough character in all
their affairs and studies. R2493:6
Daniel had understanding -- The specially favored of the
favored four, his portion included visions and revelations.
R2493:2
Daniel 1:18
At the end of the days -- After the three-year course, when

Daniel was seventeen. R2494:1
Picturing the end of this age. R4873:5
Bring them in -- Picturing the test of examination for
those in the school of Christ. R4873:5
Daniel 1:19
Before the king -- Their exaltation in his realm paid them

for their self-denials and their loyalty to God and to principle.
R5796:4
Sobriety and self-denial mean not only disappointments,
trials, deprivations and oppositions, but they mean also the
King's favor. R3631:5
Though not a type, there is a certain correspondency between
this position and that occupied by those called to joint-heirship
with Jesus Christ. R2494:2
"Dare to be a Daniel" --the Daniel spirit is a possibility with
every person. R4873:5, R2494:4, R3631:4
Daniel 1:20
Ten times better -- As a natural result of their courage and

strength of character. R2493:5
The result of devoting their lives in doing the divine will.
R4873:4, R5796:5
The four were advanced to positions far higher than they
would ever have attained in their own land. R4873:2
Corresponding to those called to joint-heirship in the
Kingdom with Christ. R2494:4
It paid the young Hebrews well for their self-denials and their
loyalty to God and to principle. R5796:5
Astrologers -- Enchanters. R4873:4
Daniel 1:21
And Daniel -- Who lived to be over 100 years of age.

R2492:3; HG518:6
See comments on Dan. 1:1.
Our Daniel, our Leader, our Lord Jesus, our example.
R2494:4
King Cyrus -- Signifies "the sun"; corresponding to the
prophecy of Christ-- "The Sun of Righteousness shall arise
with healing in his beams." (Mal. 4:2) R2498:4
Illustration of Messiah, King of kings and Lord of lords, who,
with his faithful, will shortly overthrow mystic Babylon and
possess the world. R2498:4
The "seventy years desolation" ended with the first year of
Cyrus, BC 536. R2509:3
Daniel 2
Daniel 2:1
Dreamed dreams -- God gave the dream and sent its

interpretation through Daniel, the prophet. SM417:1
Portraying the Gentile rule of earth during the interregnum of
God's Kingdom. R5526:2
Simultaneous with Zedekiah's fall and the taking away of his
crown. R5526:2
A dream of much more interest to all Christians than it could
possibly have been to Nebuchadnezzar himself. CR41:6
Daniel 2:5
Cut in pieces -- Put to death as imposters, letting on that

they had a connection with the gods that they did not have.
Q95:T
Daniel 2:9
Tell me the dream -- Arguing that if they had supernatural

power by which they could explain a dream, the same power
could rehearse it. CR41:6
Daniel 2:15
Made the thing known -- Evidently Daniel was not with

the magicians before the king. Q95:T
Daniel 2:21
Removeth kings -- God had to do with the setting up and

pulling down of the universal governments. R5305:2
Daniel 2:28
Maketh known to the king -- And indirectly, more

particularly, to the watchers. R2976:6
Daniel 2:29
Known to thee -- Picture of Gentile rule of earth from the

human standpoint. OV82:2
Daniel 2:31
A great image -- Representing the four great Gentile

universal empires. A253; R419:6, R5564:3, R5854:1;
Q82:1
Symbolizing not the people, but the governments. A255
Showing the earthly governments that would rule over the
earth during the interim between the overthrow of the typical
kingdom of God and the installation of the true King in his
Millennial Kingdom glory. R2976:4
The period of time during which these universal empires will
have controlled the world must be the Times of the Gentiles.
R5564:3
Symbol of the world power in its whole development and
final destruction. R3359:4*
Was excellent -- From Nebuchadnezzar's, the world's,
standpoint. A256; CR42:2
As thus glorious the earthly kingdoms are regarded by the
world; but God portrayed the same four earthly governments
to Daniel, in chapter 7, as beastly. R166:2, R419:6, R815:2
Daniel 2:32
Head was of fine gold -- Representing the Babylonian

empire. R166:2, R419:6, R2976:4, R815:2, R5526:2,
R5564:2; SM417:1, SM478:1; PD49/61; A253; OV82:2,
OV340:5; CR42:1
Breast and his arms of silver -- Representing the Medo-Persian
empire. See references to Head was of fine gold.
Belly and his thighs of brass -- Representing the Grecian
empire. See references to Head was of fine gold.
Daniel 2:33
His legs of iron -- Representing the Roman empire. See

references to Head was of fine gold.
Two legs represent the strong Roman empire, East and West,
Rome and Constantinople; each, in turn, was the Roman
capital. OV341:3, OV192:1; R3359:4; SM478:1
That Rome held universal sway in the time of our Lord's birth
is shown in Luke 2:1, "There went out a decree from Caesar
Augustus that all the world should be taxed." A253; CR42:1
If Israel had accepted Jesus as King, the Messianic Kingdom
would have been established at this point. Foreseeing their
failure, God pictured the extension of Gentile supremacy in
the feet of the image. OV82:2
His feet -- The toes are kingdoms, corresponding to the ten
horns of the beast of Dan. 7:7. R3359:4*
Being represented in the present divisions of the Roman
empire in Europe. R5854:1; SM478:1
The kingdoms now in existence, represented in the feet,
received their power and authority originally from the Papacy
or some of her protesting daughters who crowned them to
reign "by the grace of God." R815:2
It is upon the feet of this image that the Armageddon crash of
God's Kingdom is pictured as falling--grinding the entire
image to powder. R5854:1
Part of iron -- Represents civil governments. SM478:1;
PD49/61; A254; R3359:5*, R2976:5
Some places the iron is more prominent and some places the
clay. The iron, which has the strength, is usually the most
prominent. Q96:T
Part of clay -- Imitation stone; stone being the symbol of
the true Kingdom of God. A254; Q:81:1, Q96:T; SM417:3;
R5564:5
Represented ecclesiasticism as it is now mixed up with the
politics of the ten kingdoms of Europe. SM478:1, SM417:2;
PD49/61; A254; R5526:2, R3359:5*, R2976:5; Q81:1
The commingling of the iron and clay represented that
blending of church and state known as the Holy Roman
empire. OV82:2
Daniel 2:34
Till that a stone -- The true Kingdom of God, Christ and

the Church. A254; CR42:3; SM417:2, SM479:2; OV82:3;
R2976:5, R3293:2
The fifth universal empire, Messiah's Kingdom. There have
been two unsuccessful attempts to establish this fifth empire--
one by Papacy and the other by Napoleon. OV340:5
A small stone, a Little Flock. R2375:1
Messiah, Head and Body. R3293:2
The holy mountain referred to in Isa. 11:9. R5575:4
During its preparation, while being cut out, it might be called
an embryo mountain, in view of its future destiny; as the
Church is sometimes called the Kingdom of God. A255
The New Jerusalem "coming down from God out of heaven."
(Rev. 21:10) R654:5, R2606:3
When he gives the saints with Christ their Lord the heathen
for an inheritance; when he gives the Kingdom under the
whole heavens to the people of the saints. R658:5
The Gentiles, not fully out of power; but, their lease expiring,
their eviction begins. Bix
The Times of the Gentiles is the period between the time that
the image was set up or came into power and the time that the
stone is to smite the image upon the feet and crush its power.
Q82:1; SM478:1; OV82:3
Was cut out -- During the Gospel age this "stone"
kingdom, the true Church, is being formed, "cut out." A255;
OV82:3
Without hands -- Without human aid. SM479:1
But by the power of God. R2606:3, R3359:4*, R654:5;
OV191:5, OV429:3
Smote the image -- The preparatory step to the
establishment of Messiah's Kingdom. R5526:2; OV341:1;
B99
The impact is prominently noted throughout the Scriptures as
a "time of trouble such as never was since there was a
nation." (Dan. 12:1) OV83:T
The little period of 40 years between 1874 and 1914 is, in the
Scriptures, called the "Day of Vengeance," the smiting time
preparatory to the inauguration of the Kingdom of
We expect this smiting in 1915, not 1914. Q96:4
If Zedekiah's dethronement should be dated BC 588, it would
make the date 1932. My conviction, however, favors 1914.
SM480:T
This smiting, we believe, is near at hand (1915 comment), the
present war in Europe being intended of the Lord to weaken
the nations and prepare them for the next stage of trouble.
R5673:5
It is the smiting by this Kingdom that is preparing for the
wreck of all the kingdoms of earth. R1692:6, R5916:6
The dominion of earth. R2375:1, R5575:3; A262
The Kingdom of God, when first set up at the introduction of
the Millennial age, will be small; but, as soon as set up in
power, it will smite the "great image" of earthly rulership.
R5575:2
The present smiting of the nations is under Kingdom control.
The fact that some of the members of the Kingdom class are
still in the flesh does not mitigate at all against this thought.
R5632:1
We see all about us evidence of the beginning of the smiting,
shaking and overturning of the present powers preparatory to
the establishment of the Kingdom. B170
The smiting will not come from the Church in the flesh, with
carnal weapons, but from the Church in Kingdom glory,
backed by divine power. R5716:4
Not until the Church is complete, and Christ takes to himself
his great power to reign, and the Gentile times end, will this
heavenly power be hurled against the image. OV82:3; A255
It is the Heavenly Father that will do the smiting. You and I
have nothing to do with that. Q82:2; CR42:4
The impact will be so sharp and so thorough as to leave
nothing of Gentile supremacy. R5527:4, R5854:1; SM479:1
Upon his feet -- The very last part of the image. CR42:4
Present earthly governments. R668:5
The Roman empire still exists, not in the form in which it was
first recognized, but in the fact that it was a combination of
church and state and the two, uniting, sought to rule all
Europe and the world. Q96:T
It is upon the feet of this image that the Armageddon crash of
God's Kingdom is pictured as falling. R5854:1
Of iron and clay -- Civil and ecclesiastical powers. B78
The decaying power of the Roman dominion. R815:2
Brake them to pieces -- Not gradually, but suddenly.
R3359:5*
The crushing comes at the end of the age, preparatory to the
establishment of Messiah's Kingdom. OV341:1; R654:5
The present step (1915) is the war of the nations. The next
will be Socialism--attempted Socialism--and the third step,
anarchy. R5632:2
Not until Immanuel shall take his great power and reign and
bind Satan will there be permanent peace. R2361:1
Daniel 2:35
Then -- When the time came for the setting up of the Fifth
Universal empire. A260
The iron -- The Roman empire; civil power. A254; B78
The clay -- Ecclesiastical power. A254; B78
The brass -- The Grecian empire, which still has a
measure of life. A253, A260
The silver -- The Persian empire, which still has a measure
of life. A253, A260
The gold -- The Babylonian empire. A253
Together, all the evil kingdoms of the prince of darkness.
R2606:3
Broken to pieces -- Their utter destruction. R2338:5
Together -- Struck once--shattered all together. R3359:5*
Sir Isaac Newton observed: "All the four beasts are still alive,
though the dominion of the first three be taken away."
HG74:2
Like the chaff -- Ground to powder in the great time of
trouble. R5575:3, R2314:1, R5632:1
The Armageddon crash of God's Kingdom is pictured as
falling--grinding the entire image to powder. R5854:1
The impact will be so sharp and so thorough as to leave
nothing of them--they will cease to be. R5527:4
And the wind -- A great war. R3414:3
No place was found -- Graphic description of the end of
Gentile governments. OV83:1; R5527:4, R668:5
So long as these governments would be here, they and
Messiah's Kingdom could not cooperate. R5526:2
And the stone -- See comments on Dan. 2:34.
After it had done the smiting work. R3359:5*
Became -- Spreading, in its various parts, as do earthly
governments. D642
Gradually expanding. R2375:1; SM479:2
Its own power and dominion will be established as fast as by
its varied influences and agencies it crushes and scatters the
powers that be. B78
A great mountain -- Kingdom. D642; R654:5, R409:6,
R2606:3, R2976:6, R5181:2, R5182:2
Many years will doubtless pass before this prophecy will be
fulfilled. R5182:2
Not by poor human efforts will God's Kingdom come.
R658:5, R414:5
Filled the whole earth -- Having broken to pieces the evil
kingdoms of the prince of darkness. R2606:3, R654:5
And not only the place where the image stood. SM479:2
A worldwide Kingdom. R5181:2
As a spiritual unseen power, but with human representatives
who can be seen. R219:4
Daniel 2:36
This is the dream -- Containing a great political chart of

the world's history for the last twenty-five centuries. R662:1*
Tell the interpretation -- Daniel is the introduction to
John; the book of John is the completion of Daniel. Daniel is
first John; John is second Daniel. They are two parts of the
same book, using the same symbols and hieroglyphics and
treating the same course of events. R662:1*
Daniel 2:37
A king of kings -- A king over kings; the first one

represented in the image. Q95:2
Nebuchadnezzar was made the representative ruling head of
human dominion--Lord of earth. B96
The greatness of Babylonia dates especially from the time of
the overthrow of Israel. At that time God recognized it and it
became the universal empire. Q80:1
The God of heaven -- Man's present efforts to rule are not
in defiance of Jehovah, but by his permission, for a limited
time. A251
Hath given thee -- There the Gentile kingdoms, or
"Powers that be, were ordained of God." (Rom. 13:1) A253
Saying to the Gentiles, I will not be ready to set up my
Kingdom for some time. In the interim you may have
opportunity to demonstrate what you can do for the world.
Institute the best government that you can. R5564:4
They are all Gentile governments and not representatives of
God. All these kingdoms are demonstrating various
principles of government. HG569:6
We are interested in these kingdoms because we are interested
in mankind in general, and we may pray for them such
wisdom as God sees best. R5205:1
A kingdom -- For the opportunity to see what he could do
with it. R5204:4
The first kingdom in the image. Previously God had his own
kingdom of Israel in the world, during which time there could
be no other universal empire. Q81:1; R2497:2; HG48:2
Daniel 2:38
And the fowls -- Almost the same language addressed to

Adam. B96; HG49:1
Into thine hand -- And not into the hand of his dead
father, Nabopolassar, as some suppose. R1978:5
Each of the five universal monarchies existed a long time
before universal dominion was given into its hand. B100
Thou -- Babylon, represented by Nebuchadnezzar. A253;
OV340:4; SM417:1
It was under Nebuchadnezzar's administration that the
Babylonian empire reached its zenith. R2497:2
Art this head -- The representative head of earth. B96;
R2497:2
Daniel 2:39
Another kingdom -- The succeeding Medo-Persian

empire. A253; PD49/61; OV340:4
These are all Gentile kingdoms and not representatives of
God. All these various kingdoms demonstrate various
principles of government. R5204:5
Had only one nation been permitted to experiment with the
race, we would not have known whether other nations might
have been successful if given the opportunity. R5204:5
Third kingdom -- Grecia. A253; OV340:4
Daniel 2:40
Fourth kingdom -- Rome. A253; OV340:4

The present governments of Europe are the Roman empire
under a new gloss, or pretense. Their laws, methods and
ambitions are those of the Romans exactly; but, deceiving and
being deceived, they call themselves Christian kingdoms.
R5673:4
The Roman empire still exists as a combination of church and
state although there has been a disintegration between the iron
(civil) and the clay (ecclesiastical) powers. A254; Q96:T
Strong as iron -- The iron empire, Rome, was by far the
strongest and endured longer than its predecessors--in fact, it
still continues in the nations of Europe. A253
Daniel 2:41
Feet and toes -- The present divisions of the Roman

empire. A254; OV340:5; R5854:1; SM405:4
Today we have the division of the nations known as
Christendom--Protestant and Catholic--as represented by the
toes of the image. OV82:2, OV83:7
The ten toes are also pictured in the ten horns of the terrible
beast of Dan. 7. OV83:7
America is not included directly, only indirectly. R5854:1
Part of potters' clay -- Ecclesiastical powers. Q96:T,
A254
Part of iron -- The civil power. A254; Q96:T
The kingdom -- The Holy Roman empire. A253; Q81:1
Shall be divided -- The Roman empire passed through the
course foretold--first united, then divided. R662:3*
Strength of the iron -- The iron, or civil power, is usually
the most prominent. Q96:T
Iron mixed with miry clay -- Religious and civil power
mixed--an imitation of stone which is the symbol of the true
Kingdom of God. A254; Q81:1; R5673:5
Daniel 2:42
As the toes -- These ten divisions of the Roman empire

now exist as France, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, England,
Spain, Portugal, Lombardy, Romania and Ravenna. HG12:6
Daniel 2:43
Thou sawest iron -- Civil power. A254

Mixed with miry clay -- Ecclesiastical power. Q96:T,
A254
The gloss of nominal Christianity covering the civil power,
outwardly resembling Christ's Kingdom. R5564:5; Q81:1
Mingle themselves -- Blend together in confusion,
Babylon. A254
Shall not cleave -- Not thoroughly amalgamate. A254
When the miry clay becomes dry and "brittle" it loses its
adhesive power. The iron and clay now shows signs of
dissolution and will quickly crumble when smitten by the
"stone," the true Kingdom. A254
Daniel 2:44
In the days -- From 1874 to 1914 AD. C128

While they still have power. A262; B99, B170; R5631:5
Now the Day of the Lord has come. Earth's rightful King
takes his great power and begins his reign while yet the
powers of darkness hold their places. R1161:3
Of these kings -- The last of the Gentile powers, the
so-called Christian kingdoms of Christendom, represented in the
toes of the image. A262, A254; D623; OV340:6
"Kingdoms of this world," (Matt. 4:8) Gentile kingdoms,
permitted to hold sway until the time of Messiah's Kingdom--
and no longer. R4799:3
So also Babylon existed before it conquered Jerusalem and
Medo-Persia before it conquered Babylon. All kingdoms
must first exist and receive superior power before they could
conquer others. B99; HG75:3
The ten powers, representative of the Roman empire, before
they are destroyed in the "Day of the Lord." R112:6,
R798:4, R82:2
Whether the strife will extend beyond the boundaries of
Roman rule we do not know. CR494:6
Shall the God of heaven -- Not by poor human efforts.
R658:5, R414:5
It is Jehovah's work to set up Christ's dominion. "I will give
thee the Gentiles for thine inheritance and the uttermost parts
of the earth for thy possession." (Psa. 2:8) A309
Set up -- To exalt his Church. C115
Gradually establish in power and authority. A262; R2375:1,
R5181:2
The first step in the setting up of this Kingdom was the
raising of the sleeping saints in 1878. R5631:5
The Church is the Kingdom now only in the prospective sense
that a babe is a man. When we are glorified with our Head,
that will be our exaltation, the heavenly Kingdom "set up."
R397:4
In the full sense when The Christ is complete, every member
glorified. R5193:1; B77
The inauguration of Messiah's Kingdom in the world.
R5328:2, R5181:2
It is set up before the kingdoms of earth fall. R60:5*
Earth's rightful King begins his reign while yet the powers of
darkness hold their places. R1161:3
The setting up of this Kingdom will mean, of course, the
overthrow of all the kingdoms of this earth. R307:5
The two cannot long stand together. R1161:3
Our setting up must be before the plaques which are
represented as destroying earthly kingdoms. R112:6
A kingdom -- Present representatively throughout the
Gospel age, unrecognized by the world. D623; R397:4
This is a prophecy of restitution, because any prophecy of the
Kingdom of Christ and his saints is a prophecy of restitution.
HG336:3
It shall have no successors, for the others will all be
destroyed. R2976:6
The Kingdom for which our redeemer himself taught us to
pray. R1776:5, R2724:4, R2976:5; D429
Established on the principles of justice and equity, based
upon the golden law of love to God and men. R420:5,
R166:6
When the Day of the Lord is fully under way, all the tribes of
earth shall mourn because of him (Matt. 24:30) who is now
assuming control. R748:4
Never be destroyed -- Unlike the changing Gentile
kingdoms represented in the image. D623
The righteous King shall take possession of earth's
governments. R2724:4
Not be left to other people -- As the power of the image
shifted from one people to another. D623
It shall have no successors, for the others will all be
destroyed. R2976:6
But it -- The Lord's Kingdom, which is even now engaged
in the shaking and overturning work. B170
Our Lord assured his faithful that, at the time of the
establishment of his Kingdom and the overthrow of Gentile
power, the overcoming Church would be with him and have a
share in that work. D624; CR493:5
Break in pieces -- "As the vessels of a potter shall they be
broken to shivers." (Rev. 2:27) A256; D429; R507:3,
R2691:6
When the Kingdoms would be given to "the people of the
saints of the Most High," they were to "smite them in pieces
as a potter's vessel" This intimates that in some sense the Lord
will take possession before they have been completely
overthrown. R5631:5, R3293:4
Utter destruction in a great time of trouble. R2375:1,
R2338:5, R5328:2; A255
Not by bloodless revolution of the ballot box, but by a "time
of trouble." (Dan. 12:1) R1563:6
The intimation is that the catastrophe coming upon our
civilization will be a sudden one. The Scriptures do not say
that the trouble will come in an hour, or in one day, or in one
year. R5328:2
The great ones of earth will not voluntarily resign their power
and offices but will have to be driven off their thrones. The
saints, however, fight not with carnal weapons and will have
nothing to do with this driving. R1156:1
Thus by "breaking in pieces" --throwing down--"the
kingdoms of this world become the kingdom of our Lord and
of his Christ," and "he shall reign forever." (Rev. 11:15)
R409:3
The "kingdoms of this world," even while being crushed by
the Kingdom of God, will be quite ignorant of the real cause
of their downfall. C129
At the time of the establishment of the Kingdom and the
overthrow of Gentile power, the overcoming Church would
be with him and have a share in that work. D623
The grand blessings of restitution are already begun in this
trouble, which is a blessing in disguise, breaking in pieces and
removing the present governments and systems represented in
Nebuchadnezzar's image. R852:1
And consume -- Jezebel shall be "eaten by dogs" --the
nominal church will be cast down and consumed. R235:5
All these kingdoms -- Not people. R419:6
The nations of Europe and America. R2691:5
Surely every one which formed part of the old Roman empire.
Whether the strife will extend beyond the boundaries of the
Roman rule, whether it will involve America, we do not
know. CR494:6; R5854,1
No nation on earth can now be said to have God's special
fatherly providence over it. R1561:6
Present governments are pictured as beastly, and God's saints
should rejoice in the promise of their overthrow. R1563:6
Therefore we can neither labor nor pray for the perpetuation
of the governments of this world. R798:4
Shall stand for ever -- The next, fifth, universal empire,
under Messiah. R2976:6, R2145:1; A260
The world needs a "strong government" to hold it in check
and bring blessings and happiness to every creature. R2145:1
The kingdoms of this world, being all overthrown, will be
re-established on principles of justice and equity, based upon the
golden law of love to God and man. R420:5
Daniel 2:45
That the stone -- Representing the true Church, the

Kingdom of God. A255; R2375:1, R5564:5, R1408:2;
OV82:3; PD49/61
At first, insignificant in size and seeming powerless to the
world. R5575:3
God's Kingdom will not remain small, but will gradually
expand until it shall fill the whole earth. R2375:1, R5575:2;
SM417:2
Was cut out -- Carved and shaped for its future position
and greatness. A255
Of the mountain -- Mountains, kingdoms of the earth.
R654:5
Without hands -- Not by human hands, but by the power
of the truth. A255; R5673:5
Supernaturally; quarried out of the "earth" by the Lord.
OV341:T, R5575:3
And that it -- When complete, when entirely cut out, it
will smite and destroy the kingdoms of this world. A255
Brake in pieces -- Smite the image and grind it to powder.
This smiting is near at hand. R5673:5
The smiting will come from the Church in Kingdom glory,
backed by divine power. R5716:4
Messiah, Head and Body, shall overrule so that the nations of
earth shall be broken to shivers. R3293:5, R5631:5
The present terrible war (1914) is not the great time of trouble
in the fullest sense of the word, but merely the forerunner.
The great time of trouble will be brought on by anarchy.
R5526:3
The dream is certain -- The stone is rolling; the hill is
steepening; the impetus becomes terrible very soon, and 20
years will amply suffice to destroy old things and fit the earth
for the new. R1705:3*
Daniel 2:48
Over all the wise men -- The expectations of the Magi

(Matt. 2:1-12) may have arisen from Daniel's prophecies and
the calculations by which he pointed to the time of Messiah's
advent. R1674:6
Daniel 3
Daniel 3:1
Nebuchadnezzar -- The representative lord of earth. B96

Recognized not only as civil, but also as religious ruler.
R2494:6
Representing the Papacy. R2495:6
Made an image -- Having just won some great victories
over the surrounding nations of Egypt, Syria, etc. R2494:2
Pride overbalancing his judgment. PD51/62
Of Bel-Merodach, the god Nebuchadnezzar believed had
given him his victories. R4874:1
To impress all nations with the greatness and magnificence of
the Babylonian power and of the futility of resisting it.
R4874:1
Symbolizing the coming Protestant Confederation,
cooperating with the Papacy. D581; R2495:6
The Roman Catholic church is an idol, as are the Greek
Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, Methodist, Presbyterian, etc. --
all similarly demanding worship, obedience and revenue.
R2496:1
The first step in the formation of the symbolic image of
Papacy is the organization of the Evangelical Alliance; the
second step is an active living cooperation of Protestants as
one system. R2495:6
The great Evangelical Alliance of so-called Protestant
denominations; the likeness to the "Beast" consisting of its
doctrines and general policy. R1409:4
There are idols just as potent today--the various creeds of
Christendom which men have set to intercept the worship of
the true and living God. R1408:6
The religious unity of the empire was to be demonstrated b a
general worship of the golden image. R4874:2, R2494:3,
R4873:6
Ninety feet high and nine feet wide. R2494:3, R4874:2
Worship of the symbolic beast and his image is to be a great
test or trial upon professing Christians in the end of this age.
R2495:6
Of gold -- Not necessarily of solid gold. Herodotus
mentions a smaller statue at Babylon of solid gold, weighing
43,000 pounds. R4874:5
Set it up -- Today various idols are set up all over
The plain of Dura -- Probably in the center of the city of
Babylon. R2494:3
Daniel 3:2
Sent to gather -- Benevolence, as well as wisdom, was at

the foundation of Nebuchadnezzar's scheme. R4874:1
Considering the theory of the Jews to bless all the families of
the earth a wise one, and himself the opportune person to
carry it out. R4874:1
Daniel 3:3
Of the provinces -- The provinces of Babylon today are

the various civilized nations--deluded into calling themselves
kingdoms of Christ, "Christendom." R2495:5
Daniel 3:5
Golden Image -- Which represented Nebuchadnezzar in

that it represented his god. R4874:2
Having one religion might help to cement the various
incongruous elements of his kingdom. R4874:1
Daniel 3:6
Falleth not down -- Those who will not bow are

overcomers. R2495:6, R323:6
The time is fast approaching when the religious liberty we
now enjoy will be greatly restricted and the work of
disseminating truth interfered with by combined civil and
ecclesiastical power. R1409:1
The worship of the symbolic beast and his image are to be the
great test or trial upon professing Christians in every province
of symbolic Babylon in the end of this age. R2495:6
Fiery furnace -- Symbolizing the time of trouble. B162;
C146
Daniel 3:7
The golden image -- Representing Nebuchadnezzar in that

it represented his god. R4874:2
Daniel 3:8
Certain Chaldeans -- No doubt the three Hebrews, like all

good men, had their enemies. R2494:6
Daniel 3:12
Certain Jews -- Daniel is not mentioned here, possibly

because he was one of the king's personal staff and
household. R2494:6
Just where Daniel was at this time we do not know. R4873:3
Have not regarded -- Had defied the king's power.
R4874:3
Daniel 3:13
Rage and fury -- Disappointed at the only in harmony that

had occurred with his great project. R4874:5
At the three whom the king had so graciously treated at the
time of their captivity, and who apparently owed so much to
him. How ungrateful and traitorous they appeared. R4874:6
When we read that King Nebuchadnezzar became furious we
should sympathetically remember the circumstances.
R4874:5
Daniel 3:14
Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego -- Daniel is omitted,

possibly because, as a member of the king's personal staff, his
conduct would not come so directly in contrast with the
general conduct. R2494:6
Just where Daniel was we do not know, but his three
companions were governors of Babylonian provinces.
R4873:3
It was a crucial test for them, for they knew that to cross the
king's will meant death. R2494:6
Worship the golden Image -- All, including Israel, were
commanded to worship the idol. R1408:2
Daniel 3:15
If ye be ready -- He would give these headstrong

governors a further chance for their lives. R4874:4
Cornet, flute, harp -- Picturing the enchanting music of
the hour. R323:6
Ye fall down -- Thus indicate their loyalty to the king and
to his gods. R2494:5
If ye worship not -- A treasonable offence punishable with
death. R1408:2
Fiery furnace -- Perhaps the one used in melting the gold
for the image of immense size. R2495:3
Representing fiery trials--social ostracism and financial
boycotts. R2496:1
If New Creatures be called upon to go through a furnace of
affliction, God will be with them that they shall not be hurt,
but blest. R1409:5
Who is that God -- In his arrogance of mind he felt
prepared to contest even the unseen and unknown invisible
powers. R2495:1
Daniel 3:16
Answered -- In their faithfulness to God, these three men

preferred a dreadful death. R1408:2
In modern times the killing is not necessarily physical, but in
a social sense--cutting off of influence, name, etc. R1409:4
Not careful to answer -- Not anxious to argue the matter
with the king. R2495:2
Daniel 3:17
If it be so -- We are not able to know what may be God's

will respecting the remainder of our lives. R4874:4
Whom we serve -- Not merely worship. R2497:1
Let us resolve to neither worship nor serve sectarianism nor
mammon, but only the Lord our God. R2497:4
God's children today should refuse to bow down to the image
of war. Q731:4; R5755:5
Fiery furnace -- Of tribulation; in their families,
communities or businesses. R323:6
He will deliver us -- If not a present deliverance, then a
still more glorious deliverance and reward in the future.
R1409:6
Daniel 3:18
But if not -- If he does not choose to deliver us, that will

not alter our course. R5755:5
We must not expect God to deliver us in every case. R4874:4
There are two ways of escape--by avoidance of the trouble or
being kept from its poignancy by "grace sufficient" --out of
the furnace of affliction, or in the furnace heated seven times.
R2975:5
While the Lord delivered the three Hebrews, he did not
prevent the beheading of John; while Peter was delivered,
James was not; while Paul's life was preserved, the Apostle
John was cast into a caldron of boiling oil. R2496:3
To be loyal and true to God in these days requires as much
courage and true heroism as was necessary in the days of
gross idolatry. R1408:6
There are trials before the Lord's people today that are fully as
severe. R2495:5
Not serve thy gods -- Various creeds of Christendom and
traditions of men. R1408:6
God's children should refuse to bow down to the image of
war. Q731:4
We must neither worship nor serve sectarianism, nor
mammon, nor fame, nor friends, nor self. R2497:4
Daniel 3:19
Full of fury -- He had conquered the world. Would he

now be defied by these three men? R4874:5, R2495:1
Visage was changed -- From admiration to hate. R2495:2
Heat the furnace -- Naphtha may have been the fuel used
in the great open furnace. R4874:5
Seven times more -- To its utmost capacity. R2495:3;
PD51/62
Forgetting that thereby the sufferings of those cast therein
would be diminished. R4874:5
The Lord will keep his own--whether out of the furnace of
affliction, or in it, heated seven times. R2975:5
Daniel 3:20
Most mighty men -- Prominent officers, to demonstrate

the power of his army. R2495:3
Daniel 3:21
In their coats -- In their official garb. R2495:3

Cast into the midst -- So here, those who do not worship
the image are speedily in a "fiery furnace" of tribulation.
R323:6
Daniel 3:22
The flame of the fire -- A Jewish legend tells that the fire
streamed out 75 feet, perhaps driven by a gust of wind or
perhaps occasioned by the throwing in of additional fuel.
R4874:5
Slew those men -- Possibly by the inhalation of the flames.
R2495:3
Daniel 3:24
Three men -- In Dan. 6:7 Daniel alone refused to worship

any but the true God; here the three "Israelites indeed"
refused to worship the image. So the number who are not
worshiping the image now are probably three to one over
those who did not worship the beast. R323:6
Daniel 3:25
Loose -- Sometimes the fires of persecution merely burn

the cords that bind the Lord's people and give them larger
opportunities to serve the truth than they could otherwise
have. R2496:3
They have no hurt -- The Lord may possibly allow his
saints to go through much of the time of trouble, but render
them fireproof in the midst of it, because the Son of God is
with them. B162
Form of the fourth -- Of the most remarkable appearance,
causing the kin to speak of him as one of the gods. R4874:6,
R2495:3
The Son of God -- The Head--the True Head--is with those
who will not bow when all others bow. R323:6
The faithful ones pass through trying experiences with
fortitude, having endured as seeing him who is invisible.
(Heb. 11:27) R4784:4
New Creatures, going through a furnace of affliction, shall be
blest by the Master's presence and communion. R1409:5,
R2496:2
Daniel 3:26
Ye servants of...God -- The king realized that he had made

a great mistake and defied the great God. R2495:4
Daniel 3:27
Fire had no power -- Satan imitates this exercise of divine

power among Indian medicine men. R2174:2
The fire in the end of this age "shall try every man's work of
what sort it is," (1 Cor. 3:13) consuming all but the genuine
faith and character structures. R2496:4
Daniel 3:29
Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego -- The king rejoiced

in the noble characters of these men. R2496:5
He promoted them to still higher positions. R2495:5
So with Christians. Having demonstrated their fidelity to God
to this extent, their trials and troubles are turned into blessings
and joys. R2496:2
No other God -- A simple and beautiful acknowledgment
of the God of the Hebrews. R2495:4
Sometimes even the worldly, seeing the Lord's people in the
furnace of affliction receiving a blessing, thus glorify our
Heavenly Father's name. R2496:3
While idolatry had been one of the chief sins of the Israelites
before the captivity, they had little idolatry in its crude form
afterward. R2495:4
Daniel 3:30
The king promoted -- To still higher positions, for they

had still more of his confidence respecting their integrity.
R2495:5
Daniel 4
Daniel 4:10
Visions of mine head -- "None of the wicked shall

understand; but the wise shall understand." (Dan. 12:10)
R598:3
Behold a tree -- The first dominion of earth. B94
Daniel 4:14
Hew down the tree -- In death. B94

The beasts get away -- The lower creation no more found
shelter and blessing under man's influence. B94
Daniel 4:15
Stump of his roots -- God's purpose and plan of

restitution. B94
A band of iron -- That it should not sprout until the
appointed time. B94
And let it -- The figure changes from a tree to a degraded
man. B95
Daniel 4:16
Heart be changed -- Man's heart has become beastly and

degraded through the fall. B95
So history seems to show that during the period of Gentile
dominion the poor world has been in a measure insane,
putting light for darkness and darkness for light. CR44:6
Let seven times -- In the Bible a "time" is used in the
sense of a year. A symbolic year as used in prophecy is
reckoned on the basis of a lunar year--12 months of 30 days
each, or 360 days--each day representing a year. B89;
CRI40:2
The final and conclusive punishment visited upon the Jews,
the "Times of the Gentiles." Seven symbolic times would be
2520 years, beginning with the 70 years of desolation of the
land in 606 BC and ending in 1914 AD. B91, B97
A "prophetic year" of 360 days, used to symbolize 360 years,
is an arbitrary arrangement peculiar to its intended symbolic
use. It is neither a lunar year of 354 1/3 days nor a solar year
of 365 1/4 days. A prophetic year, or time, would mean 360
actual, or solar years, of the common reckoning. R1979:6
Repeated four times (verses 16, 23, 25, 32) as in Lev. 26
(verses 18, 21, 24, 28). HG49:3
When perfect man lost his ability and right to reign. it was
taken away and given to the Adversary whose reign of terror
and death lasted 6000 years--but limited by the Almighty as
to time and power. R196:4
Daniel 4:17
Most High ruleth -- Exercises a supervisory oversight.

Q502:1
God's government is general over all his works. R196:4
The Lord guides in the affairs of nations now, only so far as
will promote the fulfilment of his own purposes. R5466:5:
Q501:7
A hindering or restraining power. Q502:3; R5466:6
Kingdom of men -- Not that he authorized them to
represent him. Q502:1; R5466:6
Whomsoever he will -- God used King Cyrus to perform
his bidding. Q501:5; R5466:3
Setteth up -- Whoever sat on the throne of Israel was there
as the Lord's representative. R5466:3; Q501:4
Basest of men -- He brings to power those who will have
the disposition to do what he purposes when his due time has
arrived. R5467:1
For example, Pharaoh, the perverse king of Egypt. Q501:5;
R5466:3
Daniel 4:22
It is thou, O king -- Nebuchadnezzar, typifying the

original dominion given to Adam: "Thou art this head of
gold." (Dan. 2:38) B96
Daniel 4:23
With the beasts -- Typical of human degradation under

beastly governments. B96
Till seven times -- Typifying the Times of the Gentiles.
B95, B97; R2498:1
Daniel 4:25
Seven times -- This, being a type, covers only seven literal

years. R109:5*
During Gentile domination of 2520 years the poor world has
been in a measure insane. CR44:6
Daniel 4:26
Leave the stump -- The root of promise and hope, planted

first in Eden and borne across the flood and transplanted with
Israel, will sprout and bloom again. B98
That there might be a restitution of the kingdom. HG49:2
The heavens do rule -- The kingdom of earth is sure to
man after he has learned that the heavens do rule. R196:4
Daniel 4:28
This came upon the king -- We understand that God's

dealing with King Nebuchadnezzar was prophetic. R5466:3
Daniel 4:30
Great Babylon -- 14 miles square surrounded by walls 350

feet high (300 feet--R2497:3) and 80 feet broad. having 100
gates; the largest and strongest fortress in the world at that
time; it was the center of commerce, art and wisdom.
R2497:3, R3632:3, R4901:6
Daniel 4:32
Seven times -- The "Times of the Gentiles." B95, B97;

R109:5*; CR44:6; HG49:5
Shall pass -- Although the Gentile times do expire, it may
be that the Lord will not immediately dispossess them.
R5449:4
Whomsoever he will -- He might have given the Kingdom
to Jesus without redeeming man at all had he seen good to do
so. A274
Daniel 4:33
Nebuchadnezzar -- His period of bestial degradation

represents the madness upon the world. R3361:2
Daniel 4:34
The end of the days -- Typically. Antitypically, the end

of the Times of the Gentiles. B97
Understanding returned -- So at the end of the Gentile
times, after 1915 AD, reason will begin to come back to the
prodigal son (Israel). R3361:3
Already we begin to see reason returning to mankind; men are
awakening to some sense of their degradation, and are on the
lookout to improve their condition. B98
Typifying the restitution of earth's dominion. B97
After the close of the Gentile times humanity will regain its
sanity and praise the God of heaven. CR44:6
Daniel 4:37
Praise and extol -- Nebuchadnezzar and other nations,

even those in idolatry, reverenced Jehovah, the God of Israel.
R2541:3
Daniel 5
Daniel 5:1
Belshazzar the king -- Identified with the Nabonidus of

secular history whose name appears on ancient tablets.
R2497:2
The grandson of Nebuchadnezzar. R3632:3
His name has the same signification as that given to Daniel,
Belteshazzar, both signifying "Favored of God." R2497:2
Under whose reign came the collapse which pride, fulness of
bread and abundance of idleness always insure and hasten.
D24
Made a great feast -- A boast in the greatness of Babylon.
R2497:5
To renew memories of their great victories of the past.
R4901:6
Corresponding to the great denominational union expected
soon. R2498:6; HG521:4
Daniel 5:2
The golden -- Representing the precious truths of God's

Word: also, the Little Flock. R2498:6; C96; HG521:4
And silver vessels -- Representing the Great Company.
R2498:6. R4079:4*; HG521:4
These were profaned by drinking therefrom to the honor of
Bel, the god of Babylon. R2497:5
Gold and silver: Divine and natural truths or doctrines.
R1483:6
Nebuchadnezzar had taken -- In the pillage of Solomon's
Temple--a triumph over the Jews. R4901:6
Out of the temple -- Solomon's Temple. R4901:6
Might drink therein -- Typifying injuries and defilements
yet to come. R2498:6
Corresponding in Mystic Babylon to a spirit of boastfulness,
of pride, of intoxication with error, apparently drawn from the
Divine Word. SM410:3
Daniel 5:3
Brought the golden vessels -- To renew memories of past

victories over the Jews and supposedly over their God.
R4901:6
Daniel 5:4
They drank wine -- So mystic Babylon is said to make all

nations drunk with the wine, doctrine, which she gives them
out of the golden cup which she holds in her hand. HG521:6
Praised the gods -- Drinking to Bel, the god of Babylon.
R2497:5
Daniel 5:5
Wrote...upon...wall -- In letters of fire. R4902:1

A message from Jehovah announcing the end of Belshazzar's
dominion as a just punishment for his sacrilege. R3633:2
Daniel 5:7
Scarlet and...gold -- Some in mystic Babylon, having

received honors and robes, are inclined to hide the message
now due to Babylon. R2497:6
Daniel 5:8
Nor make known -- Even if they had deciphered the letters

and words, they had no interpretation to offer, because, from
their standpoint, the true meaning would seem too far from
the truth. R2497:5
Daniel 5: 10
The queen -- The king's mother. R2497:5, R3633:1
Daniel 5:13
Daniel -- At this time about 90 years of age. R3632:3,

R2497:5
Daniel 5:16
A chain of gold -- As an insignia of rank. R2497:6
Daniel 5:17
Gifts be to thyself -- Had Daniel accepted them he would

have felt obligated to the king to such an extent that it might
have warped his judgment or weakened his expression of the
Lord's message. R2497:6
Rewards to another -- Daniel renounced all claim to these
gifts as a reward. R2497:6, R3633:2
Those who would be mouthpieces of the Lord should serve
without stipulation of compensation. R2497:6
Thus many of the Lord's true servants in mystic Babylon are
hindered by having received robes and honors and are
inclined to hide or cover the message now due. They are
bound by the chains of gold around their necks. R2497:6
The interpretation -- The secret evidently lay in the
manner in which the letters were arranged, the characters
themselves being Chaldaic. R4902:1
Daniel 5:18
O thou king -- The aged prophet displayed gentleness as

well as fearlessness in the delivery of his message. R2498:1
God gave Nebuchadnezzar -- Though his father,
Nabopolassar. is recorded by history as the founder of new
Babylonia, the "Times of the Gentiles" could not begin while
God's typical kingdom in Israel remained--until the days of
Zedekiah. R2497:1
Daniel 5:21
Till he knew -- King Belshazzar, knowing this, should

have humbled himself and been reverential toward Jehovah
God. R3633:2
Daniel 5:23
Lifted up thyself -- Belshazzar boasted of his fortress and

declared that the gods of Babylon were superior to all others.
R3633:1
Vessels of his house -- To profane them in the worship and
glorification of idols. R2498:1, R3633:1
Nations which have dealt unjustly with the Jews or have
persecuted spiritual Israelites have been punished. R3633:5
In whose hand -- Power. R2498:1
Thy breath is -- The God of all life has full power to
control your course. R2498:1
Daniel 5:24
The part of the hand -- The warning hand of divine

providence. D42
Sent from him -- It was recognized as being of
superhuman origin. R3633:1
Daniel 5:25
MENE, MENE -- Mene was repeated twice, probably for

the sake of emphasis--Numbered! Numbered!--the limit of
the time of your dominion has expired. R2498:2
TEKEL -- Short weight, lacking. R2498:2
The Babylonian kingdom had retrograded from the original
type. R4902:1
Mystic Babylon falls for a similar reason. R2498:4;
SM411:T, HG521:3
In this day of his presence our Lord is judging the nations and
weighing them in the balance. R5989:1
At that very time Cyrus' army of retribution was investing the
city. R3633:3
UPHARSIN -- Broken or crushed into pieces, destroyed.
R2498:2; HG520:1
Similarly the hand of providence now foretells the impending
doom of ecclesiasticism. D42, D76, D97; F592
A type of the fall of antitypical Babylon at the hands of the
antitypical Cyrus, Christ. R4901:6
Daniel 5:26
Numbered -- The days of your rule have been numbered

by God. SM411:T, HG713:4
Finished it -- The limit of the time of your dominion has
expired. HG520:1
The spirit of the world has so fully taken possession of the
ecclesiastical powers of Christendom that reformation of the
systems is impossible and individuals can only escape by a
prompt and timely withdrawal. D42
We should not look for light where little remains but the
fading reflections of a former glory. R5993:6
Daniel 5:27
Thou art weighed -- God does actually balance and weigh

the conduct of people. While grace is the basis of his dealing,
it is dispensed according to certain principles. R3633:4
Judgment is being laid to the line and righteousness to the
plummet. (Isa. 28:17) R5989:1
In the balances -- Both the heathen and the masses of
Christendom take up the golden rule and the law of love
wherewith to measure the doctrines, institutions, policy and
general course of Christendom. D97
Found wanting -- Later Medo-Persia, Greece and Rome
would be given a trial. Each of these has proven its
insufficiency--its inability to bring the blessings of Messiah's
reign. R4902:1
Daniel 5:28
PERES -- Of which Upharsin is the plural. Nothing in the

word signifies Medes and Persians, but Daniel knew the
prophecy and that they were already besieging the city.
R2498:2
Daniel 5:29
Third ruler -- After the government was transferred to the

hands of Cyrus, the honored Jew, Daniel, found in a position
of trust, was made an officer in the new government of Medo-Persia. R3633:3
It is to Belshazzar's credit that he so honored Daniel.
R3633:3, R2498:2
Daniel 5:30
In that night -- Thus did great Babylon fall suddenly--"in

one hour." (Rev. 18:19) R2498:3
Soon--quickly--great Babylon will be cast as a mighty
millstone into the sea. HG713:4
Slain -- So far from destroying all the rulers of Babylon,
including Daniel, Darius apparently spared all but the king
alive, and gave Daniel a very high position in the empire.
R2501:1
Daniel 5:31
Darius the Median -- It would appear that Cyrus was in

some respects the chief, yet that Darius was the representative
of authority in Babylon for a time, and that upon his death
Cyrus became sole emperor. R2509:3
He may have been Cyrus the Mede. R3638:3
Typifying The Christ in the time of trouble in the end of the
Gospel age. R2498:4; HG520:6
Took the kingdom -- The River Euphrates flowed through
the center of Babylon under enormous gates of brass. Cyrus
diverted its waters and marched his troops under the gates
into the city. R2498:2, R509:6*, R3632:6; PD51/62;
SM410:3; HG520:2
As literal Babylon sat upon the literal River Euphrates, mystic
Babylon is said to sit upon the waters, peoples. As the literal
city was captured by the diversion of the waters, so symbolic
Babylon will fall by the diversion of the symbolic Euphrates:
"And the water thereof was dried up, that the way of the kings
of the east might be prepared." (Rev. 16:12) R2498:4,
R510:1*; HG520:5
"Without fighting," as the tablets declare. R2498:3
So complete was the destruction of that great city that even its
site was forgotten and was for a long time uncertain. D25
The wonderful prophecies which speak of the fall of Babylon
(Isa. 14:22; Jer. 50 & 51) were not wholly fulfilled by Cyrus
the Persian. R2498:3
Daniel 6
Daniel 6:1
It pleased Darius -- Identified with the Cyrus of secular

and Biblical history. R3638:3
Possibly Darius was merely an official title of Cyrus; or,
Darius may have been vicegerent of Cyrus in Babylon.
R3638:3
The whole kingdom -- The entire civilized world. R3638:6
Daniel 6:2
Daniel was first -- At this time Daniel was an old man.

R4874:3
Honored as the most competent and trustworthy. R3639:1,
R2502:1
God's dealings with spiritual Israel are different. Our rewards
for faithfulness are spiritual; joint-heirship with our Lord in
the heavenly Kingdom. R3633:5
Their desire to have such a man of high repute in authority
seems to evidence good intentions in their governing of the
world. R4875:1
Have no damage -- No doubt he stood in the way of many
schemes for the plundering of the treasury. R2501:2,
R4875:2
Daniel 6:3
Was preferred -- Because of his honesty and opposition to

unjust practices. R3639:1, R4875:1
A compliment in recognition of his ability, indicating the
king's breadth of mind. R4875:1
Daniel 6:4
Sought to find -- Envy and hatred are set down in the

Word of God as works of the flesh and of the devil,
antagonistic to everything that is good and right and approved
Against Daniel -- He was sure to have a host of secret
enemies. R2501:2; PD52/62
Because he interfered with their schemes of graft. R3639:2
"All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer
persecution, (2 Tim. 3:12) "Because ye are not of the world
... the world hateth you." (John 15:19) R2501:2
Could find none occasion -- Oh, that every Christian
would live as high above the world's standards as did Daniel;
that their enemies might have no grounds for charges except
those to their credit. R4875:5
Nor fault -- Nothing that they could bring against him as a
real charge or crime. R3639:2
Daniel 6:5
Law of his God -- They knew that Daniel's religion lay at

the foundation of his entire course in life. R4875:2
Not finding any wrong doing in Daniel, they concluded to
entrap him in his well-doing. R3639:5
Daniel 6:6
King Darius -- He, like every other man, was

approachable through flattery. R4875:2, R3639:5
Daniel 6:7
A firm decree -- The king was supposed to be possessed

by Ormuzd, the deity of the empire, so his decrees were
considered infallible and inviolable even by himself.
R2501:4, R3640:4
Suggested as a piece of statecraft, it was a fraud upon the
people. R2501:4
Save of thee -- The kings of ancient times posed as chief
priests and vicegerents of their gods. R3639:5, R4875:2
The claim was that such a recognition would elevate the
dignity of the throne in the minds of the people. R4875:2
Had the decree been different, Daniel's course might have
been different. If it had banned public worship, he might
consistently have worshipped in private. R3640:2
Similarly, the popes of Rome claim to be the vicegerents of
Christ. R3639:5
Flattery and vanity have often been the tools of the Adversary
for the injury of the Lord's people and cause. R3639:5
The false reasoning was of the Jezuitical sort, that an evil or
falsehood is justified if beneficial results are hoped for.
R2501:4
Every leader in the family of God should be on guard against
accepting to himself any credit due to God for the truth or
some ability in presenting it to others. R3639:6
Daniel 6:10
Daniel knew -- He understood that the purpose of it was to

entrap him. R3640:2
That if God would not deliver him now he would, in his own
good time and way, grant him a still more glorious
In his chamber -- An upper chamber for quiet, rest and
prayer, reached usually by an outside staircase. R3640:1
Toward Jerusalem -- The typical city of God and its
Temple. R2501:6
Calling to mind the gracious promises respecting the Holy
Land, that it would yet be the center of the whole earth and of
God's holy people. R4875:4
Because Daniel remembered the promise of Israel's return to
Jerusalem after 70 years of desolation. R3640:1, R2501:5
He kneeled -- Unwilling to assume a less humble position
before God than he and others assumed toward earthly kings.
R2501:6
It is impossible for a Christian to maintain a proper walk in
life without regularity in prayer -- we are almost inclined to
say, without kneeling in prayer. R2501:6, R3640:2,
R4875:4
Upon his knees -- Daniel was not satisfied merely to close
his eyes in prayer after he had retired to rest. He was not
ashamed to bow the knee to the Almighty. R2501:6
Daniel's private worship in so public a manner may have been
because to have worshipped in secret might be misunderstood
to mean he did not worship at all. R2501:5
The Lord commended differently to the household of faith:
"When thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast
shut the door, pray to thy Father which is in secret." (Matt.
6:6) R2501:5
Three times a day -- The child of God will desire to
commune with his Creator as surely as he will desire natural
food and drink for the sustenance of his natural body.
R2502:1
And prayed -- He would not sell his conscience and deny
his God; he would not pretend he was praying to Darius.
R3640:2
We should be extremely careful about compromising
conscience. R3640:2
Without communion with his Maker, his faith and his loyalty
to principle could not be maintained in the midst of
corruption. R4875:4
It is impossible to live a consecrated life in neglect of prayer.
R4875:4
As the sharpening of scythes in harvest time does not mean
lost time or energy, so also time spent in prayer is not lost as
respects the affairs of life. R4875:4
The thought of praying in solitude, however, does not
interfere with the thought of family prayers or prayers in the
church, which is the Lord's family circle. R3640:3
Daniel 6:14
Then the king -- His eyes were opened and he beheld the
trap. R3640:4, R4875:5, R2502:2
Displeased -- He was ashamed of the part which he felt
compelled to take. R4875:5
With himself -- These words are lacking from some of the
reliable manuscripts, making the displeasure all the broader to
include the counsellors. R3640:4
Daniel 6:15
May be changed -- A veiled threat of insurrection.

R2502:2
Daniel 6:16
Brought Daniel -- A man whose faithfulness to the Lord

and to principle was so strong in faith that he could go to the
lion's den without fear. R3640:6
Much more, why should we, if faithful and with still greater
light, fear and quake under such circumstances? R3640:6
Into the den -- Probably a lion pit surrounded by high
walls. R3640:5
Servest continually -- Every Christian life should testify to
his own character and faithfulness, and of the God whom he
worships. R2502:2
Daniel 6:17
A stone -- Used for a door, sealed with thongs, the knots of

which were sealed with the king's signet. R4875:5
Probably fastened to its place with an iron bar. R2502:3
Of his lords -- Who were amongst the conspirators--to
prove that it was not tampered with. R2502:3
Daniel 6:19
And went in haste -- It is good to realize that our worldly

friends are watching us to see to what extent our God delivers
us from the difficulties and trials of life's pathway. R3641:2
Daniel 6:20
God, whom thou servest -- The king properly associated

Daniel's faithful service to God with his hope respecting
God's faithfulness to Daniel. R2502:3
Able to deliver -- At present, some who are not of the
consecrated have considerable faith in God and in us as his
children. R3641:2
Daniel 6:22
Sent his angel -- His providences. R2502:5

Any power or agency which God might employ. R2502:4,
R3641:3
"The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear
him and delivereth them." (Psa. 34:7) R3641:3
The lions' mouths -- Restrained from doing violence to
Daniel. R2502:4, R3641:3
Lions great and small, picturing tests that come to us, threaten
the Lord's people in the present time; but, as illustrated by
Bunyan, they are chained and go only so far, leaving room to
pass between. R3641:1
It is possible for human mouths to do us more harm than the
mouths of wild beasts. R2502:5
God is not less able to send his providences to prevent injury
to his people now. R2502:6
"No lion shall be there." (Isa. 35:9) R3641:1
Have not hurt me -- "Nothing shall hurt nor destroy in all
my holy mountain." (Isa. 11:9) R3641:1
Was found in me -- Haughtiness and bravado are wholly
lacking in the prophet's announcement of the great favor of
God on his behalf. R2502:4
The Lord's people are not to boast of results, but to give the
glory to God. R2502:4
And also before thee -- A conscience "void of offence
toward God and man." (Acts 24:16) R3641:4
Daniel 6:23
No manner of hurt -- Because of his faith and loyalty to

God, Daniel was delivered. R1409:2
It may please the Father to deliver us as he did Daniel, or he
may overrule otherwise as in Stephen's case; but always He
overrules to bless. R2502:6, R3641:3
Daniel 6:24
Into the den -- Making a test as to which were worthy in

the sight of the Lord. R3641:5
Josephus adds, from tradition, that the conspirators claimed
the lions had been previously fed and that the king
demonstrated the matter by having the lions liberally fed
before throwing them into the den where they were speedily
devoured. R2503:1
It is not for us to think of having our enemies devoured, nor to
rejoice over their fall. R3641:5
Those who dig pits for others are likely to fall therein
themselves. R2503:4
Daniel 6:25
Darius wrote -- Declaring his reverence for Jehovah, the

God of Daniel. R2541:3
Daniel 6:28
The reign of Darius -- It would appear that Cyrus was in

some respects the chief, yet that Darius was the representative
of the authority in Babylon for a time, and that upon his death
Cyrus became sole emperor. R2509:3
Cyrus -- As Cyrus, a type of Christ, overthrew Babylon, so
a part of the work of the second advent will be the overthrow
of antitypical Babylon. R5092:3, R2498:4
Daniel 7
Daniel 7:2
My vision -- Containing a great political chart of the

world's history. R662:1*
Such visions are sometimes counterfeited by Satan and made
to seem ordinary by cataleptic sleeps and hypnotic trances.
R2033:2
Four winds -- The great time of trouble, also pictured as a
tidal wave, a whirlwind and a great fire. R5863:6; D528
Of the heaven -- The higher, or ruling, powers. R318:3
Upon the great sea -- The restless masses of mankind.
A318
Daniel 7:3
Four great beasts -- Representing the Gentile

governments as ferocious, destructive, beastly and selfish,
from the standpoint of the Lord and his people. A261;
R166:2; PD50/61
Beastly because the base of action for every carnal man is
pure self-interest. R1189:3
Indeed beastly. How perfectly they represent, in their evil
and death-dealing power, their master, the devil. R419:6
The sea -- The masses of mankind, not under religious
restraint. R318:3; A318
Daniel 7:4
First was like a lion -- Babylon. R318:3; A257; Dvi;

OV270:6
The earth -- The people, under or obedient to the ruling
powers. R318:3
Daniel 7:5
Second, like to a bear -- Medo-Persia. R318:3; A257;

Dvi; OV270:6
Three ribs Three kingdoms it subdued. HG48:4
Daniel 7:6
Like a leopard -- Greece. R318:3; A257, Dvi; OV270:6

Four wings -- Representing the rapidity of the movements
under Alexander the Great. HG48:4
Alexander's kingdom was divided by his four generals--
Seleucus, Philopater, Antiochus Epiphanes and Ptolemaus
Philomater--and broken into fragments. C27, C28
Daniel 7:7
A fourth beast -- The Roman empire. A257; C76; Dvi;

OV270:6
No descriptive name given, because it was so ferocious and
hideous that none of the beasts of the earth could be
compared with it. A258
The same as the dragon of Rev 13:1, 2. R318:3, R420:1
Stamped the residue -- Nothing could withstand its
power. OV83:6
It had ten horns -- The ten divisions of the Roman empire.
A258
Kingdoms. R318:5, R3359:4*
Babylon is represented as being divided into ten different
wards, each of which represents one of the kingdoms of
Christendom, and which corresponds to the ten horns of the
symbolic beast. Compare Rev. 11: & Dan. 7:7. SM405:4
Corresponding to the ten toes of the image of Dan. 2.
PD50/61; OV83:7; HG20:4; R3359:4*
Daniel 7:8
There came up -- In 539 AD. C76, C95

Another little horn -- The Abomination of Desolation,
the Papacy (Matt. 24:15); that Wicked One (2 Thess. 2:8);
the Man of Sin (2 Thess. 2:3); the Mystery of Iniquity (2
Thess. 2:7); the Antichrist (1 John 2:18); the Son of Perdition
(2 Thess. 2:3); the Beast (Rev. 13:1). A258; B271, B272,
B277; C64, C76, C95
Papacy, the Leopard Beast of Rev. 13, containing certain
qualities resembling the first three beasts combining certain
leading characteristics of the preceding empires, uniting them
in the power of the last. R318:3
Representing ecclesiastical power enthroned amid political
power. PD50/61
Before whom -- In 476, 489 and 539 AD, respectively.
C76, C77, C95
There were three -- The Western empire, the Heruli and
the Ostrogoths. (The Western empire was an exarchate of the
Eastern empire.) A258; C76, C77
Lombardy, Romania and Ravenna--since then the church
element has worn the three-crowned hat. HG65:3
Of the first horns -- Powers. C76
Plucked up -- The Western empire by the Heruli, the
Heruli by the Ostrogoths and the Ostrogoths by Justinian on
behalf of the Papacy, which actually held the city and suburbs
of Rome continuously from AD 539. C76-C79
Were eyes -- Representing intelligence and a farsighted
policy. A258; B305
And a mouth -- Representing Papal utterances and claims.
A258; R1732:5
Claiming to be the vicar of Christ. He assumed to speak as
the mouthpiece of God. R388:3*
The power of the Papacy has been that of its mouth, guided
by its knowledge. B305
"And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things
... and he opened his mouth in blasphemy." (Rev. 13:5, 6)
"And he shall speak great words against the Most High."
(Dan. 7:25) B305
Speaking great things -- But not saying whether they are
great truths or great untruths. In Revelation also, Papacy is
described and its language quoted without adverse criticism.
R1732:5
Illustrated by the boastful words of Pope Martin V. HG269:6
Making boastful claims. It should not surprise us that God
should ordain, as part of its reward, that it should eat its own
words. R509:6
Daniel 7:9
Till the thrones -- Governments, rulerships. A92

Were cast down -- The thrones of earth will be cast down
and the dominion transferred to the great Prophet and Judge.
R893:2, R2609:1
Head like the pure wool -- Suggestive and symbolic of
venerableness, of knowledge, experience, wisdom. R2826:4
Daniel 7:10
A fiery stream issued -- Symbolic of severe judgments--a

time of trouble. C302; R668:5
During the time when rich men weep and howl (Jas. 5:1-3;
Zeph. 1:18); when the nations are angry (Rev. 11:18); when
the stone smites the feet of the image (Dan. 2:34); when the
kings of the earth make war with the lamb (Rev. 19:11-21).
R668:5
Thousand thousands -- Not only of his saints, but of
numerous other agents and agencies. C302
Times ten thousand -- AU mankind. C302
Judgment was set -- It has already begun upon the
institutions of nominal Christendom and will spread to all the
nations, living and dead. C302
And the books -- Of the divine revelation. C302
Were opened -- Made plain as never before. C302
Daniel 7:11
I beheld then -- After the decree against the Papacy; after

its judgment had begun; after its dominion was gone and it
was powerless longer to crush the Truth and power of the
holy people. C68; A260; HG93:6
Of the great words -- "There was given unto him a mouth
speaking great things." (Rev. 13:5) B305
Illustrated by the claim of infallibility, made in 1870. A259
Which the horn -- Papacy. C64, C76, C95
I beheld even -- That it got no power over the holy saints,
but it did have another effect. C68
Till the beast -- The remnants of governments in the old
Roman empire, represented by its horns. C68; A259
Was slain -- By the rising of the masses. A259
As a result of the misleading influence of Papacy's continued
bombastic utterances, even after its dominion is gone. C68
Signifies the overturn of the civil and religious systems of our
day. OV83:8
His body destroyed -- Their organizations as governments.
OV83:8
Although the nations shall never rise up again, yet the people
who compose the nations shall come forth from the grave to
be blessed by God's kings and priests. R2338:5
The burning flame -- To general anarchy. C68
Utter destruction. R2338:5; A260
The fourth beast will lose dominion and life at once. A260
Daniel 7:12
Rest of the beasts -- Babylon, Persia and Greece. A260

Their dominion -- Universal dominion of earth. A260
Their lives were prolonged -- Sir Isaac Newton observed:
"All the four beasts are still alive, though the dominion of the
first three be taken away." HG74:2
A season and time -- Their lives as nations did not cease
immediately. A260
Not so with the Roman empire, the fourth and last. A260
It will lose dominion and life at once, with all the others.
A260
Daniel 7:13
The Son of man -- Greek: the Son of the man (Adam).

E150, E153
The seed of Adam, through Eve. E152
Does not imply that the life of this Son would come either
through Adam, Abraham, David or Mary. E152
Messiah. E150; SM595:2; R3788:1
The Scriptures identify the Son of Man with the Lord of
Glory and with the 'man Christ Jesus, and with the pre-human
Logos. E150
The Jews understood the term as synonymous with Messiah.
R943:6*, R3788:1
Not in the sense of being a man, but because he was the son
of the man David with whom Jehovah made an everlasting
covenant, perpetuating the throne to him and his seed forever.
R944:1*
With the clouds -- Clouds of trouble. R1796:6
The kingdoms become his when he comes "with the clouds"
and not his coming as the "man of sorrows." HG79:6
Ancient of days -- Jehovah. A261
Daniel 7:14
There was given him -- "Whose right it is." (Ezek. 21:27)

R2609:1; D12
At the end of the Times of the Gentiles. OV115:3; A270
The Christ, Head and Body, complete. A260
By Jehovah, the great King. A261, A308
Dominion -- The present dominion of earth will be
transferred to the great Prophet, Priest, King and Judge.
R2609:1, R893:2
A kingdom -- When he appears in power and great glory.
R2361:1, R4715:1
The Kingdom of God for which we pray, "Thy Kingdom
come." (Matt. 6:10) R1776:5; D429
Should serve him -- At present they do not; they must be
brought by chastisement to submission. R268:5, R592:3,
R409:3
His dominion -- He shall take dominion, associating with
him his faithful followers. R799:1
The winepress of the wrath of God must first be trodden.
R3359:6*
Daniel 7:17
Out of the earth -- At best they are but kingdoms of this

world. A270
Daniel 7:18
The saints -- The Little Flock, the Royal Priesthood.

R1855:3, R2490:2
Under the new rule there will be new rulers. R268:5
Shall take -- Forcibly. D518
Not by poor human efforts. R658:5, R414:5
To "smite in pieces as a potter's vessel," (Psa. 2:9) intimating
that, in some sense, the Lord will take possession of them
before they are completely overthrown. R5631:6
The kingdom -- Dominion. R268:5, R409:3
The fifth universal empire, the Kingdom of God. R307:5,
R1776:5, R2145:1
Under which "all the families of the earth shall be blessed."
(Gen. 12:3; Gen. 28:14) R1195:4
Daniel 7:19
Know the truth -- The nature and length of the dominion.

C67
The fourth beast -- The Roman empire. A257; C76;
PD50/61
Daniel 7:20
And of the other -- The Papacy. C76, C95

Which came up -- In 539 AD. C76
And before whom -- In 476, 489 and 539 AD,
respectively. C76
Three fell -- The Western empire, the Heruli and the
Ostrogoths. A258; C76
Mouth that spake -- Papal system making boastful claims.
R509:6
See also comments on Dan. 7:8.
Daniel 7:22
Judgment -- The judgment against the "thrones" of the

present time follows speedily upon the introduction of the
Millennial reign. R893:2, R2609:1
The saints -- The Little Flock, the Royal Priesthood.
R1855:3, R2490:2
The kingdom -- A strong government, in order to control
the avarice and discontent and to cause the bounties of divine
providence to minister blessings to every creature. R2145:1
"They shall reign with Christ a thousand years." (Rev. 20:6)
R654:6
To bless all the families of the earth; the resurrected dead as
well as those nations then living. R1195:4
Daniel 7:24
Another shall rise -- The beginning of this temporal power

of the popes was gradual, from AD 539, but it was fully
established in AD 800 when Charlemagne, king of France,
was crowned by Pope Leo III. R1093:6
Daniel 7:25
And he -- The Papacy, the Man of Sin. C64; R665:5

Speak great words -- "There was given him a mouth
speaking great things." (Rev. 13:5) B305
Against the most High -- Every tide of the true Christ and
every prophecy describing his future glorious Kingdom, have
been applied by the popes to themselves and their Antichrist
reign. R1093:6; B307
And shall wear out -- By the Confessional, the Inquisition
and by persecutions, such as were inflicted upon the
Waldenses, Albigenses, Wycliffites and Huguenots. B328,
B329, B334-341
To change times -- By establishing the Church in power
before the Lord's time. B310; R5911:3
And laws -- The divine laws, by modifying them to suit his
own schemes. B310; R5911:3
Into his hand -- Like Elijah's three and a half years of
hiding in the wilderness from Queen Jezebel, these
correspond to the 1260 years of the true Church in the
wilderness condition where she had fled from the antitypical
Jezebel. R5857:4
Dividing of time -- In the Bible a "time" is used in the
sense of a year. A symbolic year as used in prophecy is
CR140:2
Three and a half times or years (360 x 3 1/2 equals 1260
days; symbolic time, 1260 literal years), from 539 to 1799
AD, the period of Papacy's power. C64, C68; R5857:4
There is abundant proof that this is the way God intended us
to calculate symbolic time. (See Rev. 11:2, 3, 9, 12; 12:6, 14)
R389:3*
Daniel 7:26
Away his dominion -- Papacy's dominion, and

ecclesiastical domination in general. D37
To consume -- Gradually from 1799 AD onward. D37;
A259
This was the point and edge of all the preaching of the
Reformation. R307:3
Unto the end -- Showing that the judgment was to sit on
that power and take away its dominion before the end.
HG21:1
Final complete destruction. C50, C95; D37
Daniel 7:27
Kingdom -- This Messianic Kingdom is to be established

to bring mankind back into harmony with the divine
arrangement. R5181:2
The golden age of prophecy. R2361:1
For which our Redeemer taught us to watch and pray.
R1776:5, R1855:2
The fifth universal empire. R307:5
It is the Kingdom of God--the Kingdom of Allah! CR113:3
It is in that Kingdom only that the saints have their
citizenship; it alone they recognize. R318:6
The Church with her Lord is to constitute that Kingdom, and
it cannot be established until the gathering of the elect from
the world has been accomplished. CR21:5
Dominion -- This dominion Jehovah will wrest by force
from the "prince of this world," Satan, and will give it to his
Son, whose Bride will share her Bridegroom's Kingdom.
R5574:1
But they will not need the dominion, having attained the
divine nature. Therefore the Kingdom of earth will be
eternally the portion of perfected mankind. CR426:5
Under the whole heaven -- Under a heavenly or spiritual
ruler. SM502:1
Worldwide. R5181:2
Upon the completion of the election of the saints. R4812:2
Full liberty to do right will be firmly and forever established
by earth's new King. R683:6
Shall be given -- Some of the kingdoms represented in the
Gentile image will be remaining at that time. R5631:5
Transfer will be accomplished in a great time of trouble
which is to end the present world. R5574:1
Is Christ to have dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all
nations should serve him? The same is given to the saints.
R30:6*
When he gives the saints, with Christ their Lord, the heathen
for an inheritance. (Psa. 2:8) R414:5, R658:5
People of the saints -- The Kingdom class will consist
only of our Lord and his "elect" of this Gospel age. D618;
A261
God's faithful ones who suffer now, subject to the powers that
be. R5574:1, R507:2
"The upright (saints) shall have dominion over them in the
morning." (Psa. 49:14, 15) R2600:2
Who are to "dash them (beastly kingdoms) in pieces like a
potter's vessel." (Psa. 2:8, 9) R5631:5
"To execute upon them the judgment written; this honor have
all his saints." (Psa. 149:9) A261
Not by going into earthly politics. R2145:1
Whose kingdom -- The first step in the setting up of this
Kingdom was the raising of the sleeping saints of the Gospel
age. R5631:6
Everlasting -- The Kingdom of earth will be eternally the
portion of perfected mankind. CR426:5
Because being of God's appointment; not by poor human
efforts. R318:6, R414:5, R658:5
And all dominions -- Christ's Kingdom is ultimately to be
something more than a work of grace in the hearts of
believers. A282
Shall serve and obey -- Become subject to Christ. D12
First they must be brought to submission by chastisement.
R592:3
His reign will be "the desire of all nations." (Hag. 2:7)
R5204:4
As New Creatures prove their love for the Lord by suffering
with him now; so the "earthly" must show their love and
obedience to the same Lord when he is reigning with his
saints. R1149:5*
Daniel 8
Daniel 8:8
The great horn -- Alexander the Great. C27

Four notable ones -- The four divisions of Alexander's
empire. C27, C31
Ptolemy in Egypt, Seleucus in Asia, Lysimachus in Asia
Minor and Cassander in Macedonia. C31
Daniel 8:9
A little horn -- Civil or Imperial Rome, which rose to

influence upon the ruins of the Macedonian empire and then
underwent a change and became Papal Rome, the
Abomination of Desolation. C27, C64, C95, C98
Daniel 8:10
And it -- The Papacy, the Abomination of Desolation.

C64, C98
Waxed great even to -- To controlling. C96, C98
The host of heaven -- The entire church. C96
And of the stars -- The shining lights. C96, C104
Daniel 8:11
Magnified himself -- In the person of its head, the pope.

C104
Even to the prince -- Even to assuming dignities,
prophecies and titles belonging to Christ Jesus, the true Prince
of the Church. C96
Of the host -- The great mass of the nominal church. C37,
C108
And by him -- And from him, Christ. C96
The daily sacrifice -- The continual sacrifice. C96, C98
Was taken away -- Christ's continual sacrifice was not
actually cancelled or abolished by Papacy, but it was set aside
by the false doctrine of the Mass. C98
Papacy substituted a false or sham sacrifice in the place of the
one everlasting, complete, never-to-be-repeated sacrifice of
Calvary made once for all time. C102
And the place -- And the base. C96
The doctrine of the ransom is the base of the Sanctuary or
holy Temple, the consecrated Church. C103
Of his sanctuary -- The truly consecrated, in the nominal
church. C37, C109
Was cast down -- Was overthrown. C96

By the doctrine of transubstantiation and the sacrifice of the
Mass. This was the center of Luther's attack on the Papacy in
AD 1517. C99, C109
Daniel 8:12
And an host -- And the host, the people. C96

The rejection of Babylon (Christendom) in 1878 was the
rejection of the mass of professors--the "host," thus
distinguished from the Sanctuary or Temple class. C180
Was given him -- Was given over to it. C96, C103
The daily sacrifice -- The continual sacrifice. C96
By reason of -- Through. C96
Cast down the truth -- Together with such of the host and
of the teachers as held fast to the truth and would not unite
with its course of transgression. C104
Daniel 8:13

The transgression -- The earliest mention of the Mass was
at the Council of Constantinople, AD 381, a date not
particularly referred to in this prophecy. C103
Of desolation- That maketh desolate. C96
Daniel 8:14
Unto 2300 days -- 2300 literal years, "From the going

forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem"
(Dan. 9:25), 454 BC to 1846 AD, when the Sanctuary class
was separated by the formation of the Evangelical Alliance.
B67; C107, C119
As the seventy weeks, or 490 days (Dan. 9:21-27), were the
forepart of the 2300, their fulfillment shows us where the
2300 began and whether literal or symbolic time was
signified. C107
The work of cleansing the true Church from the defilements
of the Dark Ages culminated in 1846 and was but limited.
R5565:6
The sanctuary -- A nucleus of the "holy people," the
Sanctuary, would become free from the errors of Papacy.
C123
The host was not cleansed, they retained the error; but the
consecrated class, the Sanctuary, renounced the error and
suffered for truth's sake, many even unto death. C109
Be cleansed -- Freed from the traditions of Babylon.
R4334:6
The Great Reformation of the 16th century is the date for the
commencing of the cleansing of the Sanctuary. C108
At a time sufficiently in advance of 1874 to make ready a
people prepared for the Lord, a people in devout expectancy
of his coming. C129
Marking, not the beginning of the cleansing work, but a
period in which it would be, in a measure, finished. C105
Protestant church-state union was the snare by which the
Adversary impeded the cleansing of the Sanctuary, and
reformation and cleansing, for a time, ceased. C111
The cleansed Sanctuary will soon be exalted and filled with
the glory of God. C26
Daniel 8:17
Understand -- Mark well. C96, C105

For at the time -- Because for the time. C96, C105
Of the end -- It cannot be understood sooner and will
terminate then. C105
Shall be the vision -- Is the vision. C96
Daniel 8:18
In a deep sleep -- In amazement. C97
Daniel 8:19
In the last end -- To the end. C97, C105

Of the indignation -- Of these evil predictions. C97,
C105
For at -- For it pertaineth to and shall be fulfilled. C97,
C105
Time appointed -- Appointed time. C97, C105
AD 1799. C129
The end shall be -- Of the end. C97, C105
The dominion of the "Man of Sin" was taken away. C129
Daniel 8:20
Are -- Signifieth. C97
Daniel 8:22
Now that being -- Now that it was. C97

Whereas -- And that. C97
Stood up for it -- Sprang up in its stead, signifieth. C97
Not in his power -- Not with his power. C97
Daniel 8:23
Are come to the full -- Have filled the measure of their

guilt. C97
"For the iniquity of the Amorites is not yet full." (Gen. 15:16)
C97
A king -- The Papacy, the Abomination of Desolation.
C64, C97
Of fierce -- Impudent or shameless. C97
Dark sentences -- Deep schemes. C97
Shall stand up -- Shall arise. C97
Daniel 8:24
Shall be mighty -- Shall be made mighty. C97

Not by his own power -- Not with his own force. Papacy
strengthened itself by using the force of the various nations of
Europe. C97
Prosper, and practise -- Do more than can be believed.
C97
And shall destroy -- Or corrupt. C97
The mighty -- The mighty ones. C97
The holy people -- Saintly people. C97
Daniel 8:25
Through his policy -- By his cunning skill. C97

Craft to prosper -- Deceit to prosper him. C97
In his hand -- In his power. C97
And by peace -- And by prosperity. C97
Shall also stand up -- As Antichrist. C97
Daniel 8:26
And the vision of -- And that part of the vision concerning.

C97
Evening and the morning -- Or, the "vision of the days,"
giving it the same rendering as in verse 14. HG650:1
Which was told -- That there would be 2300 days to the
cleansing. C97
For it shall be -- For it will be fulfilled. C97
For many days -- For a very long time; not merely for
2300 literal days. C105
Daniel 8:27
And was sick -- Sick at heart by the thought of so many

evils coming upon God's people. C105
None understood it -- None could interpret it. C106
The prophets wrote not for themselves and the people then
living. but for the Gospel Church. R1418:6
Daniel 9
Daniel 9:2
Understood by books -- By Jer. 25:11; Jer 29:10 and 2

Chron. 36:20-23. B64, B191
Accomplish seventy years -- We cannot make seventy
years desolation of the land into fifty-one years' desolation for
the sake of harmony with Ptolemy. R3437:3
Desolations of Jerusalem -- Seventy years of desolation,
not of captivity. R1976:1,4, R3437:3
Daniel 9:3
To seek by prayer -- His earnestness and faith in the

promises pleased God, who therefore revealed to him
something more concerning the vision. C106
With fasting -- We have good New Testament precedent
for the observance of literal fasts. R2022:4
Daniel 9:18
For thy great mercies -- Pray, trusting in God's love and

mercy. R5380:5*
Daniel 9:19
For thine own sake -- Pray, pleading God's glory.

R5380:6*, R5381:1*
Daniel 9:20
Speaking, and praying -- Let us be encouraged to pray

always and not to faint when the answers seem to tarry long.
R1866:4
Confessing my sin -- How many prayers are hindered
because the one who asks does not first purify himself.
R1866:4, R2022:5
Daniel 9:21
Speaking in prayer -- Concerning the vision of 2300 days

which Daniel misunderstood to mean a prolongation of the 70
years captivity of fleshly Israel in Babylon. C106
Vision at the beginning -- In the vision of 8:16, referring
him back to that vision. HG88:1
Touched me -- Spiritual beings can appear as common
men with fleshly bodies, as did Christ after his resurrection.
HG29:3
Daniel 9:22
To give thee skill -- To teach thee. C107

And understanding -- That thou mayest understand.
C107
Daniel 9:23
At the beginning -- Not the end, but at the beginning of

our supplications, God begins to shape circumstances to work
out blessings for us. R1866:4
The commandment -- The further declaration of God's
plan, now being communicated. C107
To shew thee -- To tell it. C107
The matter -- This further matter. C107
Consider the vision -- Have understanding of the vision of
the 2300 days. C107
Daniel 9:24
Seventy weeks -- Seventy literal weeks would be 490

days; seventy symbolic weeks would be 490 years. B65;
C107; R600:4
490 years specifically set apart as a period of favor to the
Jewish nation. R4344:2, R2620:5, R2657:5, R4842:2,
R5470:3, R5836:5, R19:6
Ended 3 1/2 years after the death of Christ; after which the
Gospel privileges were open to the Gentiles, Cornelius being
the first convert. R1451:2, R2811:6, R5963:6, R5163:2;
Q150:3
Divine favor to Israelites must and did continue to them down
to the full end of the 70 weeks, although national favor ceased
3 1/2 years earlier, in the midst of the 70th week. R2620:5,
R2931:2, R5963:6
Are determined -- Marked off, cut off, or set apart as a
part of the 2300 days or years. C107; B65
Upon thy people -- Israel. C107; HG66:1
Provided and foretold for "Israelites indeed." R4504:3
Upon thy holy city -- Jerusalem. C107
An end of sins -- "He put away sin by the sacrifice of
himself." (Heb. 9:26) B68
To those whose iniquities were reconciled for by our
Redeemer's sacrifice. R4504:5
Reconciliation -- The iniquities of the Church were
cancelled at the heavenly Mercy Seat when Jesus "ascended
upon high" (Eph. 4:8); unbelievers are still unreconciled.
R4504:5
Complete, from God's standpoint, since Christ's death. R37:2
Does not contradict the plain statement of other Scriptures
that the great work of reconciliation is divided into two parts--
the first for the Church and the second for the world.
R4504:6
Righteousness -- Everlasting justification from sin instead
of the typical yearly justification accomplished by the types
for the typical people, Israel. B68, B65
And to seal up -- To set a seal upon Daniel as a true
prophet, and upon all his prophecies. C107
By making an end of sin and bringing in everlasting
By the blood of the covenant. B69
The vision -- Of the 2300 days, by fulfilling the first part
of it. C107
And prophecy -- And the prophet Daniel, by showing him
to be a true prophet. C107
Anoint -- Anointed by the holy Spirit at Pentecost.
R4344:3, R4504:3
The most Holy -- The holy remnant of the Jewish nation,
the purest and fittest. B70
Israelites indeed. R4504:3, R5950:6
Daniel 9:25
Know therefore -- The learned might have known the time

of its fulfilment from this prophecy, but for the masses, the
evidence was simply and only the signs of the times. R748:3,
R629:2
The going forth -- 454 BC, according to the chronologies
of Dr. Hale and Dr. Priestlie. B67
Rollins, in his "Ancient History of the Medes and Persians,"
agrees with the date of 454 BC. R3575:4*
1845 years (the length of the Jewish "double") prior to 1391
AD when Hus, the reformer, became acquainted with the
works of Wycliffe and continued the Reformation work.
From the work of Hus in 1391 to the invention of printing in
1440 AD was 49 years, or seven weeks of years. This
explains the peculiar manner in which the 69 weeks are
mentioned in this verse, as "7" and "62." R3575:6*,
R3577:1*
The decree of Cyrus, although issued in BC 536, did not go
forth until the days of Ezra and Nehemiah, but lay concealed
in the treasure house of the kings of Persia. (See Ezra 6:1-3)
HG105:5
The beginning of the 70 weeks was so obscure and indefinite
that the Jews did not know positively when to expect
Messiah. R2132:4
To build Jerusalem -- Not the Temple. B65, B67
To build its walls, in the 20th year of Artaxerxes (Neh. 2:1)
and not the time of Ezra's commission 13 years earlier (Ezra
7:7). R3575:4*; B67
Unto the Messiah -- Signifies "The Anointed." Jesus was
not the Anointed until his baptism. B66; R600:4
While many prophecies combine to fix and confirm the date
of the second coming of Christ, this one alone marked the
date of his first advent. B64
The Prince -- Highly exalted. OV118:4
Seven weeks -- Marked specially events connected with
the Temple. R2811:6
Threescore and two -- Totaling 69 weeks of years, or 483
years, ending Autumn 29 AD. B66
Reaching to the baptism of Jesus where he was Christ-ened,
or more properly, in English, Anointed, manifest as the
Messiah. R47:2*
When Jesus was baptized in Jordan; at the beginning of the
last seven years of that period. R189:5, R4344:2
In troublous times -- Under unfavorable circumstances, as
recorded by Nehemiah. (Neh. 4) B65
Daniel 9:26
And after -- But not immediately after, R47:2*

Three and one-half years after. B68
Threescore and two -- (Seven) and 62, or 69 weeks, 483
years. B67
The end of the 62 weeks following the first seven was to mark
Messiah's appearance. R2811:6
Messiah be cut off -- Be slain (Douay), die. B68;
R271:6, R562:4, R600:4, R3630:2
In the middle of the last seven years. R4344:3, R3630:2;
Q107:2
"He was cut off out of the land of the living; (not for himself)
for the transgression of my people was he stricken." (Isa.
53:8) R47:2*
But not for himself -- Not for his own sins. R4344:3,
R1359:4
"Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures. (1 Cor.
15:3) R393:4, R271:6
"He was wounded for our transgressions." (Isa. 53:5)
R600:4, R1359:4, R1394:5
"The just for the unjust." (1 Pet. 3:18) R1359:4
One of the many prophecies which indicate that the Bible is a
divine revelation. A58
Variously rendered in other translations, but in our opinion,
the Authorized Version is the clearest and best rendering.
B68
Of the prince -- Titus, the Roman General. B63
Be with a flood -- Like a flood. B71
Daniel 9:27
And he -- Messiah, Christ. B63; R197:5, R1359:4,

R1394:5, R2931:2, R5163:1
Confirm the covenant -- Seventy weeks' agreement.
R600:4, R2657:5; Q195:2
The disciples were not suffered to preach to the world in
general until the seven years of harvest work to that Jewish
people was fully accomplished. R263:6, R600:4
It was in the last half of the 70th week, three and a half years
after the cross, that the great work was done amongst the
Jews. Q107:2
With many -- Individuals of the castoff system. Thus
Jesus, telling his disciples to preach to "all nations," was
particular to add, "beginning at Jerusalem." (Luke 24:47)
C170
During the remaining three and a half years the favor was
increased, though confined to the remnant, the most holy, the
purest, or fittest, whom alone could benefit. B70
For one week -- Seven years. R263:6, R289:4, R562:4,
R2811:6, R5163:2
The entire "seventieth week," from the beginning of our
Lord's ministry until Cornelius, was set apart by God's
arrangement for the Jewish trial. C170
The 70th or last week of the covenant of favor, from the
beginning of our Lord's ministry, October AD 29, to the
conversion of Cornelius, October AD 36, 3 1/2 years after
Christ's death. B58, B63, B71; R5163:2, R189:6,
R1451:2, R5048:6, R5470:3, R5836:5, R4344:3; Q195:2;
HG117:5, HG354:5
Seven years of favor-trial and separation of "Israelites indeed"
from nominal Israel; a parallel of the trial and separation of
the Christians indeed (entirely consecrated) from the nominal
church of professors. R247:5, R2811:6
Furnishing a typical representation of a similar testing of the
nominal gospel church during seven corresponding years from
1874 to 1881 AD. C171, C216; B235; Q150:2-4, Q156:1-3
And In the midst -- After 3 1/2 years. B68; R2811:6,
R2931:2
His death, at the Passover, about April I would place his birth
thirty three and a half years earlier, in the month of October.
B58
Of the week -- Of the 70th week, 3 1/2 years before its full
end in 36 AD. C108; R4842:2
He shall cause -- By introducing the better sacrifice. B65
The sacrifice -- The typical sacrifices of the Law. B68
Oblation to cease -- When the true sacrifice had been
made, the typical ones were no lonqer recognized. A223;
B65, B68; R5163:3, R271:6, R189:5
And for -- Or, because of. B64
The overspreading -- Because abominations would
prevail. D571
Abominations -- Fleshly Israel's religion became an
abomination after their repudiation of Christ. D571
He shall -- Messiah shall. B64
Make it desolate -- The termination of God's special
exclusive favor to Israel, marked by the spirit-begetting of
Cornelius. R4344:3
"Wrath is come upon them to the uttermost." (1 Thes. 2:10)
R1702:2
Secular history estimates the trouble that came upon Israel
within 40 years of our Lord's death as the most awful that had
thus far occured amongst men. R1702:2, R2787:3
The consummation -- Or completion, the full end of the
Jewish "double" or period of disfavor. B64, B71
Or, utter destruction. R5950:6
Seven years of favor was followed by 33 years of trouble,
called fire; paralleled by seven years to 1881 AD, followed by
trouble, called "fire," which will consume the dross of
Babylon and purify God's children in and contaminated by
her. R289:5
And that determined -- And that which is determined in
God's plan. B64; D571
Until all that God had predetermined shall be accomplished.
R5950:6
Upon the desolate -- Or, cast off people. B72
The desolate people, the rejected nation, represented by
Jerusalem. B64; D571
Daniel 10
Daniel 10:2
Mourning three full weeks -- Because of his inability to

understand. R1866:4
Daniel 10:3
No pleasant bread -- Representing self-denial and

deadness to the world, which should be the attitude of all true
believers at all times. R2022:4
Daniel 10:5
A certain man -- An angel in his glorious spirit body.

A183
An angel can also assume a human body of flesh. R1952:3
Daniel 10:6
Body -- A spiritual body, as described here and in Rev.

1:13-15, is very nice; and we shall be "fashioned like unto his
(Christ's) glorious body." (Phil. 3:21) R119:6, R315:6*
Like the beryl -- Spiritual bodies are glorious in their
normal condition. R18:3, R261:6, R579:1; HG28:6
Eyes as lamps -- Expressive of their piercing brightness.
"The Lord seeth not as man seeth." (1 Sam. 16:7) R388:6*
Polished brass -- Fine brass, as it burns in a furnace, so
bright that you can scarcely look at it. R18:4, R261:6
Daniel 10:7
I Daniel alone saw -- Without a miracle, either by opening

our eyes to see them, or their appearing in the flesh as men,
spiritual bodies are invisible. R579:1, R18:4, R262:1; A183
Daniel 10:8
No strength in me -- Had our Lord appeared after his

resurrection in the glory of the spirit body, the glory would
have been greater than the witnesses could have borne. B124
Daniel 10:9
Toward the ground -- Daniel fell as a dead man. R18:4,

R261:6
Daniel 10:11
Man greatly beloved -- Margin: "man of desires."

R2022:4
Daniel 10:12
From the first day -- Not the end of the third week.
R1866:4
At the beginning of our supplications God begins to shape
circumstances to work out the intended blessing for us.
R1866:4
"Before they call (reading the desire of the heart even before
it finds expression in words) I will answer (begin to shape
events to bring the answer sooner or later); and while they are
yet speaking I will hear." (Isa. 65:23, 24) R1866:5
To chasten thyself -- Sought, by the practice of self-denial,
to bring himself into a special condition of heart and
mind pleasing to God. R2022:4
How many prayers are not heard, or are hindered, because the
one who asks does not first purify himself of evil in his own
heart? R1866:5
Daniel 10:13
Withstood me -- Either invisibly present with him, or else

appearing as a man. R579:1, R262:1, R18:4; A184
But, lo, Michael -- Christ. D414
The superior of Gabriel. R490:4
Daniel 10:20
Knowest thou -- Or, Thou knowest. HG61:6
Daniel 11
Daniel 11:2
And the fourth -- Darius 111, Codomanus. C26
Daniel 11:3
A mighty king -- Alexander the Great of Greece. C26

Shall rule -- Alexander conquered the world in the short
period of 13 years. C27
With great dominion -- The High Priest of Israel showed
Alexander this prophecy and interpreted it to foreshow that
the Persian power should be overthrown by Alexander. C27
Daniel 11:4
The four winds -- Among his four Generals: Ptolemy in

Egypt, Seleucus in Asia, Lysimachus in Asia Minor and
Cassander in Macedonia. C27, C31
Daniel 11:5
King of the south -- Egypt. C27
Daniel 11:6
King of the north -- The Grecians, and afterwards, the

Romans. C27
Not an individual monarch, but the Roman empire's
representative. C32
Daniel 11:14
To establish -- To seemingly fulfil. C25
Daniel 11:17
Daughter of women -- Cleopatra. C28
Daniel 11:18
After this -- The following verses merely touch prominent

characters down to Papacy and then, identifying it, pass on to
the end of its power to persecute, and a detailed account of
Napoleon Bonaparte. C28
Daniel 11:19
Then he -- Mark Antony. C29
Daniel 11:20
A raiser of taxes -- "Caesar Augustus sent forth a decree

that all the world should be taxed." (Luke 2:1) C29
Augustus was the first ruler to introduce to the world a
systematized taxation. C29
In the glory -- The most glorious epoch, Rome's "Golden
Age." C29
Another translation reads, "the glorious land of the kingdom,"
applying specially to Palestine and fitting in exactly with the
record in Luke 2:1. C29
Of the kingdom -- The Roman empire. C29
But within few days -- Within a few years after he reached
the zenith of his power. C29
Nor in battle -- Augustus died a quiet death, whereas his
predecessor and his seven successors in imperial power died
violent deaths. C29
Daniel 11:21
A vile person -- Tiberius, a cruel, sensual, despicable

tyrant. C30
Daniel 11:22
Shall they -- All opposers. C30

DANIEL BIBLICAL COMMENTS
Be overflown -- Be swept away. C30

Also the prince -- Christ Jesus. C30, C126
Daniel 11:23
Made with him -- The Senate recognized him as Emperor.

C30
With a small people -- The Praetorian Guards, 10,000
picked troops organized by Tiberius and kept by him
continually at Rome to overawe the people and Senate and
abolish elections and assemblies. C30
Daniel 11:24
He shall scatter -- Divide. C31

Among them -- Among local governors. C31
The prey, and spoil -- Of the countries tributary to Rome.
C31
Daniel 11:25
And he -- Aurelian, Emperor of Rome in the days of

Zenobia, 272 AD. C33, C32
Forecast devices -- Treacherously devise plans. C32
Daniel 11:26
Shall destroy him -- Aurelian was assassinated by his own

Generals. C34,
Shall overflow -- His army was successful. C34
Daniel 11:27
Both these kings' -- Imperial power slowly dying and

clerical power slowly coming to life and ambition. C34
But it -- The league of the clergy and the civil power. C35
Shall not prosper -- Then, in Aurelian's time. C35
Even Constantine was hindered by the temper of the people
from accomplishing at once and as rapidly as was desired a
union of the forces of church and state. C35
For yet -- "Because as yet the end is unto another time."
The union between clergy and civil power could not prosper
because the 1260 years, counted from that date, would bring
the end too soon. C34
The end -- Of the 1260 years of papal persecution. C35
The time appointed -- In 1799 A.D., and could not,
therefore, have begun in Aurelian's day as it would then have
terminated before the time appointed. C35
Daniel 11:28
Then shall he -- Aurelian, after the overthrow of Zenobia.

C33
Return into his land -- Rome. C33
With great riches -- Zenobia was confined in fetters of
gold and nearly fainted under the weight of jewels when led
captive into Rome. C33
Shall be against -- Aurelian ascribed his victory over
Zenobia to the sun. As the Christian deemed the sun
unworthy of worship, it is presumed that their refusal to
participate in this sun-worship provoked his sudden and
violent opposition. C34
The holy covenant -- Christianity. Aurelian, on his return,
began a persecution of all Christians. C34
Daniel 11:29
At -- This verse and the verse following should be in

parenthesis. C35, C46
The time appointed -- The Time of the End. C46
He -- Napoleon. C47
Shall return -- Verses 25 to 28 refer to a previous invasion
of Egypt, verses 29 and 30 intimating that the next great
invasion of Egypt would be at the Time of the End. C46
And come toward -- And invade. C47
The south -- Egypt. C47
It shall not be -- Not be as great a victory as. C47
The former -- Invasion against Cleopatra. C47
Or as the latter -- Invasion against Zenobia. C47
Daniel 11:30
For -- The reason Napoleon's invasion of Egypt was not as

successful as were other invasions was because. C47
Ships of Chittim -- Of the Romans. England was once a
part of the Roman empire, against the fragments of which
Napoleon at this time was fighting. C47
The holy covenant -- The truth, by establishing the
Concordat with the Pope. C47
So shall he do -- And he shall succeed. C47
Shall even return -- Change about. C47
Have intelligence -- Devise, scheme, operate. C47
With them -- Against them. C47
That forsake -- That have forsaken the apostate church in
Rome. C47
Taking away, not only Charlemagne's gifts of territory 1000
years after they were made; but afterward Papacy's civil
jurisdiction in Rome, which was actually recognized from AD
539, 1260 years before AD 1799. C58
Daniel 11:31
And arms -- Strong ones (Young's translation); heady

ones. C36
Stand on his part -- Stand up out of him, out of the
Papacy. C36, C64
They shall pollute -- Undermine, defile. C36, C25
Sanctuary of strength -- Both the sacred precincts of civil
authority, undermined by those in the church who sought for
present dominion; and the sanctuary of God, the Church,
defiled and degraded by the ambitions of these strong ones.
C36
The daily sacrifice -- The continual sacrifice, Christ's
sacrifice. This does not refer to the interruption of the
Temple worship by Antiochus Epiphanes. C25, C36;
R1484:3
They shall place -- 539 AD is the point in time from
which we should reckon the Desolating Abomination set up.
C76
The Papacy in embryo schemed to set itself up in power as a
sacerdotal empire. C36
The abomination -- The central item of this prophecy of
Dan. 11. C25
That Wicked One (2 Thes. 2:8); the Man of Sin (2 Thes.
2:3); the Mystery of Iniquity (2 Thes. 2:7); the Antichrist (1
John 2:18); the Son of Perdition (2 Thes. 2:3); the Little Horn
(Dan. 7:8); the Papacy (Matt. 24:15). B271, B272, B277;
C64, C76; A258
Particularly its doctrine of transubstantiation and the sacrifice
of the Mass, supplemented in our day by various theories of
self-atonement. C36; D572; F471
The sacrifice of the Mass--a gross error introduced about the
third century. R3750:3, R1484:3, R2822:6
That maketh desolate -- The result of its overspreading
influence would be the desolation of rejected Christendom.
D571
By turning people away from the one atonement sacrifice for
sins and having their gaze attracted to the priest, the Mass, the
blessings and the holy water. R3750:4; C36
Daniel 11:32
And such -- Of the reformers and the reform movements.

D31
Of the host class. C37
The covenant -- Their covenant with the Lord. C37
Shall he -- The Papacy. C37
By flatteries -- Honors, titles, etc. C37
But the people -- The Sanctuary class. C37
Do know their God -- His character and plan. R2570:1
Shall be strong -- Valiant; strengthened by persecution.
R2570:1; C37
Daniel 11:33
And they -- The Reformers at the end of the Dark Ages.

B357
Shall instruct many -- That the Papacy is the Antichrist,
the Man of Sin. C37
Yet they -- Those who oppose the Papacy, the faithful few.
C37
Days -- Here another parenthesis of verse 34 and part of
verse 35 interrupts, until the phrase "to the time of the end,
because it is yet (future) for a time appointed." C38
Although the length of this persecution is not here stated, we
learn from other scriptures that it is 1260 years, ending in
1799 AD. C38
Daniel 11:34
Now when they -- The true Church. OV417:1

Shall fall -- When falling, in the 16th century, before the
end of Papacy's power. C38; B357; R5911:4
God granted a little help to those falling because of fidelity to
his Word; notwithstanding some would fall through
persecutions. C38
With a little help -- The Reformation movement. C38;
OV417:1; B357
The teachings of a few saintly ones gained sufficient headway
to bring about the Reformation. R5911:4
But many -- Kings and princes; tares. C38, C154
Shall cleave to them -- To Protestantism; to the wheat.
C38, C154
With flatteries -- Honors and titles; promises of help and
success if they would shape their courses according to the
wisdom of this world. C37, C110
Succumbing, in a considerable degree, to the desire to gain
power and influence among the nations. R5911:4
Receiving the favor of the world at the expense of their virtue,
their fidelity to Christ. D31
It was flattery of the leaders of the great Reformation that
stayed the progress of that good work and caused many to fall
from their steadfastness. R1895:2
The kings and princes offered their backing in return for
support of their kingdoms. OV417:1
Overcome by flatteries, each reform movement, after
accomplishing a measure of cleansing, stopped short. D31
No marks or badges of distinction or flattering homage may
be tolerated in the Body of Christ. R1895:2
Had the reformers and their descendants continued faithful to
the truth and not succumbed to flatteries, God's grand design
might have been accomplished through their honored
instrumentality. C50
Daniel 11:35
Of understanding -- Leaders, reformers, teachers, who

had been able to instruct many concerning Papacy's errors.
C38
Shall fall -- Flattery caused many to fall; but let it not be
so among us. R1895:2
From being leaders of reform they became leaders into
temptation. C48
"A thousand shall fall at thy side and ten thousand at thy right
hand." (Psa. 91:7) R414:6
To try them -- The faithful few. C38
The checking of the reform movement served, as Papacy's
error had done, to further test the saints, to prove whether
they were really followers of men or of God. C48
And to purge -- Shake loose from all earthly support and
confidence in man's wisdom. R414:6
Make them white -- Verses 34 & 35, down to and
including these words, should be in parenthesis. C38
Even to the time -- The fixed time. C25
Of the end -- AD 1799. C38
The overthrow of the Papal dominion in 1798 by the French
Revolution marked the beginning of the "Time of the End"
and opened the way for a multitude of improvements and the
increase of knowledge. R24:5
It is yet -- A full and correct interpretation of the vision
could not be had until the Time of the End. C25
Daniel 11:36
And the king -- Napoleon was not a king, but the term
king is a general one to indicate a powerful ruler. C40
Napoleon, the instrument employed by providence to break
Papacy's power and to begin her torture which will end in
utter destruction at a later date. C39
France had been, of all nations, most faithful and subservient
to Papal authority. Therefore no other nation could have
struck Papacy so stunning and destructive a blow as the
French. C39
To his will -- He was noted for his wilfulness and
determination. C40
Above every god -- Every mighty one. C40
Marvellous things -- Commanding his obedience as a
servant, thus shocking the superstitious of the world. C40
The God of gods -- The ruler of rulers, the Pope, by fining
him ten million dollars, organizing the Papal territory into a
republic and taking a Pope as a prisoner to France. C40,
C42, C56
Shall prosper till -- When Napoleon boldly ignored both
the blessings and the curses of Papacy and yet prospered
phenomenally, he weakened not only Papal influence over
civil governments but also the influence of Protestant systems
in matters civil and political. C49
Until he had accomplished his mission of scourging the
Papacy and breaking its influence over the minds of the
people. C41
Shall be done -- The Pope was brought to the verge of ruin
in 1797 AD, taken prisoner to France in 1798 and died there
the following year. His successor, Pius VII, in 1800, declared
that all, including himself, should obey established
governments. C42
Since AD 1799 there have been separations between empires
and churches, but no new unions. This date marks a new
reformation on a more substantial basis--no less thorough
than that of Luther and his colleagues. C49
Daniel 11:37
God of his fathers -- The Papacy. C42

The desire of women -- Protestant sects. C42
Nor regard any god -- Any ruler. C42
Magnify himself -- Nothing but his own personal ambition
controlled Napoleon. C42
Himself above all -- In opposition to all. C42
Daniel 11:38
But in his estate -- Instead of any of these gods. C42

The God of forces -- Military power. C42
His fathers knew not -- Other great warriors made
acknowledgment to some supernatural powers for victories
achieved; but Napoleon ascribed his success to himself and
his genius. C43
And pleasant things -- The treasures of Europe were taken
to France as spoils of war. C43
Daniel 11:39
In the most strong -- To strengthen his. C43

Holds -- Hold. C43
With a strange god -- With the strange (new) god. C43
Whom he shall -- Whoever will. C43
Acknowledge -- Acknowledge him. C43
And increase -- Him will he give much honor. C43
He shall cause them -- Shall cause such. C43
The land for gain -- Gratis, among his relatives and
favorites. C43
Daniel 11:40
And at the time -- The fixed time. C44

"The time pre-fixed." (Douay) C46
Of the end -- AD 1799. C38, C68
Push -- Marking the particular event that is to be
understood as the exact date of the beginning of the Time of
the End--Napoleon's invasion of Egypt from May 1798 to
Oct. 9, 1799. C44
King of the north -- England. C44
Like a whirlwind -- Nelson's attack on the French fleet
was conducted with a degree of vigor never surpassed. C45
And with horsemen -- The Egyptian Mamelukes. C45
With many ships -- The English forces consisted of a navy
under Admiral Nelson. C45
And he -- Napoleon. C45
And pass over -- And pass through victoriously. C45
Daniel 11:41
The glorious land -- Palestine. C45

Children of Ammon -- Napoleon kept to the coast and did
not enter, but passed by these lands. C45
Daniel 11:44
Out of the north -- The second coalition, composed of

England, Russia, Naples, Turkey and Austria. C46
Make away many -- Many nations. C46
Daniel 11:45
Of his palace -- His palatial tents. C45

Holy mountain -- Mt. Tabor, the mount of transfiguration,
where one of his most important battles was fought. C45
Or Mt. Sinai, visited by Napoleon and his scientific corps.
C45
Come to his end -- Death as an exile. C46
None shall help him -- He was forsaken by all. C46
Daniel 12
Daniel 12:1
And at that time -- And in that time, "the Time of the

End" (Dan. 12:4), somewhere between 1799 AD and 1914.
C24, C129; D414; R5696:2
At the time of the great earthquake of Rev. 16:18, 19, divine
power will step forward and gather the marshalled hosts to
Armageddon. Dxv; SM236:3; OV275:1
Shall Michael -- A fitting name for him who is the express
image of the Father's person and the representative of his
authority and power. B147
"Who as God," one representing God, Christ Jesus, "The
captain of our salvation." (Heb. 2:10) B145, B147; C62;
D414, D548, Diii; OV269:2; CR139:3; R490:5, R2394:2
The great Messiah, the Archangel, the antitypical
Melchizedec, Priest and King. R4715:3, R5031:2, R4735:6,
R5050:3; CR141:4; SM236:3
The great antitypical Moses, the great antitypical David.
CR137:6
The glorious Messiah, whom the Jews identify with Michael,
the Mohammedans also expect and identify with Mohammed
of the past; and the Freemasons identify with Hiram Abiff,
the great Master Mason. R5031:2, R4715:3; Q422:3,
Q425:3
A god-like Messiah, combining the qualities of Moses (the
great teacher and lawgiver), of David and Solomon (the great
kings), and of Melchizedek (the great priest)--on a bigger
scale--antitypical--and as a spirit being and not a human.
OV109:1, OV115:3; CR137:6
The superior of Gabriel. R490:4
Not the same Michael as mentioned in Rev. 12:7. R55:3,
R306:5
Stand up -- Be present. B149
Stepping upon the scene quietly, without outward show, in
the same manner as he went away. C130
When the lease of earthly power of Gentile governments
terminates in the great time of trouble, Messiah shall stand up
and assume control of earth's affairs; and Gentile governments
shall cease, for all nations shall serve and obey Messiah.
SM478:2
As in Rev. 11:15 and 1 Thes. 4:16, showing Jesus' presence
during the time of trouble. B149
Messiah is about to stand up, clothed with divine power, to
take to himself his great power and reign. R5805:6
Begin his reign. HG314:3
Begin to exercise his power and dominion. R490:5
With power and authority, to accomplish the grand restitution
of all things, offering everlasting life to the dead and dying.
C126
To render judgment. R1308:4
To intercept that trouble, and save mankind from self-destruction
in anarchy. R2394:2
The new King Immanuel has taken the helm of earth's affairs.
R3342:6
Stand forth, at his second advent; assume control; when he
"ariseth to shake terribly the whole earth." (Isa. 2:19) B145,
B147, B149; C62; D579; SM479:T; OV324:1; R1155:6,
R5805:6
The Lord shall manifest to the world his government, his
authority, his rule. R3469:5, R490:5, R1385:5
Our Lord will not have the authority in vain. When he shall
have the authority he shall use it. One of the first works will
be the suppression of evil--the devil and all his institutions.
R3469:5
To give the word of command, permitting the match to be
struck for the great fire that consumes the "earth," "the
elements" and "the course of nature." D548; B147
For the salvation of God's people, for the rectification of error
and wrong, for the establishment of right and truth, to bring to
the world of mankind the great Kingdom of God. Diii;
OV269:2
He will be on the side of the masses. OV275:2; SM236:3
The great prince -- Archangel. (Jude 7) R152:6; HG80:6
The leader and commander of the people. R2394:2
Jehovah's chief messenger, the Lord of glory. R490:5
As the name Michael indicates, God's representative; the
"prince of the covenant." (Dan. 11:22) C126
For the children -- He will stand up for Israel; he will
stand up for the Church, which is his Body; and he will stand
up for all who are in harmony with God, and all who will be
in harmony with God. R5050:3
Of thy people -- For the deliverance of Israel first and,
subsequently, of all the families of the earth--from every
vestige of bondage, including eventually the bondage of
death. OV102:2
If "thy people" of Dan. 9:24 belongs exclusively to the Jews,
it is exceedingly arbitrary to say " thy people" of Dan. 12 has
no reference to the Jewish nation. HG66:1
And there shall be -- Not the peaceable conversion of the
world. B101
Not by Peace Conventions and Peace Treaties. R5554:2
In the close of this Harvest time. R3228:4
Because the wise of the earth do not fully submit themselves
to absolute justice and truth, and princes do not turn from the
grasping of power to the enlightenment and uplifting of the
people. SM696:T; OV102:1
Occasioned in great measure by the growth of infidelity and
Spiritism. A239
THE CAUSE --
A time of trouble -- The cause: manifestations of divine
justice and opposition to sin and all iniquity. The results: the
world's realization that they need a Mediator. OV286:3
The beginning of the judgment of the living nations. B145
The trouble and shaking of the Church, to shake out of
profession of faith all who are not really saints, is because the
election of the Church is almost complete. R1308:4
General infidelity among the masses will pave the way for
socialism and, finally, for anarchy--which, as the fire of the
great Day of God Almighty, shall sweep all before it into the
greatest time of trouble the world has ever known. R1198:4,
R1983:1, R4955:5; OV186:4; HG499:4, HG518:4
Not a repetition of history, but a stupendous reversal of
history brought on by the new conditions of many running to
and fro and knowledge being increased. D414
As the direct result of the blessings and increased
enlightenment of our day. R2971:4, R1142:3
As a result of the running to and fro and the increase of
knowledge, bringing increased dissatisfactions. R2394:2,
R3898:5; R5364:1; A337; Di; HG317:1
The knowledge causes the trouble because of the depravity of
the race. A170
The world's greatest blessing--knowledge--is becoming its
greatest bane. OV62:T, OV148:T
To be precipitated by the conflict of interests of the
aristocracy and the masses. R5448:6, R1690:3, R4795:5,
R5516:4, R5112:4, R1776:5, R3107:6; Q769:3, Q849:T;
A325, A335; OV321:2
In which no nation can claim God's care and protection.
R1561:6
The outcome of human selfishness, providentially delayed
until the due time. SM266:1, SM160:1; OV186:4; A332
Describing the binding of Satan and the overthrow of the
reign of sin. HG234:1
The Adversary may have had much to do with the movements
toward communism, socialism and anarchism which will tend
to bring on the time of trouble. R5061:4; Q579:4
The race question will evidently have its part in this mighty
conflict. The Adversary is seeking to stir up strife between
the Negroes and the whites which can result in no good to
either. HG515:5
When the four winds, the fallen angels, will become loose.
R5318:4, R5470:4
Evil spirits intruding upon the minds of men. R4311:3,
R5318:4, R5470:4
"Watch ... that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all
these things." (Luke 21:36) R1952:4
Accomplished by the Lord allowing present institutions to
"run amuck," to overthrow themselves. SM15:1
The storm clouds have been gathering since 1874. R1243:1
A time of anarchy brought on by neglect of the golden rule.
R2313:6, R3107:6, R3228:4, R4735:2, R4955:5, R1519:2,
R4857:2; OV148:T, OV341:2; SM453:3, SM266:1; B78;
PD94/108
Anarchy, born of fear and despair, and not of a love of
lawlessness. R2869:4
Rendering satisfaction for wilful sin, the squaring of God's
accounts with the world preparatory to handing the Kingdom
over to Messiah for the blessing of all. OV346:1; R5240:2
As a satisfaction for wilful sin, for all the righteous blood
shed from the time of Abel down to the present. R5240:2
SEVERITY OF THE TIME OF TROUBLE --

A revolution--short, sharp, terrible--in which the social earth
shall melt and the ecclesiastical heavens pass away with a
great commotion. HG639:5
It will be short. But it will last long enough to teach humanity
a lesson never to be forgotten--that God and his arrangements
must stand first and be obeyed if blessings are sought.
OV321:3
The greatest revolution the world has ever seen; not
bloodless, at the ballot box, but by a "time of trouble."
R1385:5, R1563:6; A307
Nobody wants this trouble, everybody will be injured by it,
and yet everybody is rushing toward it--both the aristocracy
and the masses, goaded on by fear. R5448:6
The beginning of the purgatorial fire of the Day of the Lord.
R1470:3
A parallel of the severe trouble at the end of the Jewish
dispensation, but vastly larger. R5469:5, R5240:2, R1702:4,
R4891:5, R5019:1; B219; C126; D48; F445
There will be no peaceable conversion of the nations. B101
Variously pictured as a whirlwind, (Jer. 23:19) a fire,
(Zeph.3:8) a tempest, (Isa. 29:6) a flood. (Nahum 1:7, 8)
R4997:4, R5863:6; HG401:1; Div, D527
"The Day of Vengeance." (Isa. 63:4, Isa. 34:8) D11
In connection with the quakings of society and the
overturning of kingdoms, we may expect an increase of wars,
pestilences, earthquakes and famines. R879:2
A baptism of fire (trouble), which some mistakenly pray for.
F445
Compared with which even the French Revolution will be
small. C62
Will consume religious, political and financial institutions.
R2971:4, R622:4, R1198:4, R5364:1; SM512:T
"I will shake all nations." (Hag. 2:7) R3053:1
When the winepress of the wrath of God overflows.
OV126:3; R4755:6
In which the tare class will be terminated. R3771:4,
R4636:4; C146; F445
The present terrible war (1914) is not the great time of trouble
in the fullest sense of the word, but merely its forerunner.
The great time of trouble will be brought on by anarchy, the
general uprising of the people. R5526:3; OV341:2
The great trouble of Rev. 13:15-17 will not be the world's
trouble, the anarchy which will cause the "earth" society to
melt with fervent heat. R3437:1
We are not to expect the interposition of the Lord's power to
stop it until mankind shall have been humbled to the dust and
shall call upon the name of the Lord in great trepidation.
R5852:5
"Every man's hand against his neighbor." (Zech. 8:10, Zech.
14:13) R5516:4, R5526:3, R2313:6, R1243:1; OV341:2;
SM266:1, SM735:T
It will also mean a time of fiery trial to the household of faith,
with whom it begins. R5268:5, R4311:3; B361
The perplexity of the people will increase with greater stress--
financial and social. R5697:3
The Kingdom of Messiah will be born in a time of terrible
travail, but the glorious results will more than compensate.
Cv
RELATIONSHIP TO MESSIAH'S KINGDOM AND
REIGN
The outward sign by which the world will know that Messiah
has accepted his throne. CR291:4; R5680:6, R5269:2
Showing that Christ has taken his great power and begun his
reign. R5523:1; OV321:3
Ushering in the new dispensation. R5092:6, R4149:4;
SM411:2, SM160:T
Inaugurating Messiah's Kingdom. R5753:1, R5765:6,
R4353:3, R5554:2; HG415:1; SM104:1, R511:3
During which the present ruling powers under Satan shall
give place to the Kingdom of God under Christ and his
Church. R1377:3
Describing the period of transition from Gentile supremacy to
Messiah's Kingdom. R5564:1, R5399:6
The first work of Christ's reign will be the smiting of the earth
"with the rod of his mouth" (Isa. 11:4), the truth. R1352:2
Ending the Gospel age and its Harvest, and introducing the
Millennial Kingdom. R5053:1, R2564:4, R436:4, R5019:1,
R4891:5, R5554:2, R1385:5, R1423:1
WHEN DOES IT START --

"The morning cometh, and also the night." (Isa. 21:12) The
morning is here, but there will be a great storm of trouble
before its full splendor of Millennial brightness. R4149:4
When the last member of the Body of Christ has passed
beyond the veil and the "salt of the earth" is gone. (Matt.
5:13) R5173:3; D548
The latter part of the great battle--day which began in AD
1874. R1969:5
Delayed, in part, because of the dispersion and the language
barriers introduced at the Tower of Babel. R5161:2
Not yet come, but near, even at the door (1905). R3630:3
This time of trouble will not begin nor end in 1914. It may be
beginning now (1905). There may be beginnings now, but
these are only leading up to the real trouble. Q71:2
Not expected before 1914 AD. R4671:4, R4699:2,
R4857:2; SM162:1; HG417:2, HG676:1; C211
The terrible Armageddon which will follow the present war
(1914). SM412:3; Diii; Q769:2; R5516:4
We are in the beginning of the time of trouble (1915).
R5619:5*, R5680:6, R5864:4
Which has begun. Bix; R5864:4, R490:6, R3342:6;
OV346:1; HG62:4
The first step in banishing all evil conditions. R1592:4
EFFECTS ON TRUE AND NOMINAL CHURCH AND
THE WORLD --
Including the tribulations upon Babylon. SM411:2
While there will be trouble in the outside heathen nations
also, the trouble will specially affect civilized nominal
Christendom--Churchianity. R3771:4
As a part of it, even before its severity, there will be a severe
hour of trial and testing on the truly consecrated Church,
much as it was in the days of Papacy's triumph. B361
We have not yet had "enough" --there is yet a great and final
shaking up of the church and the world to take place. (Heb.
12:26-28) R1155:5, R3052:6
We rejoice not in the trouble, which surely saddens every
tender heart, but in how the world will be prepared by it for a
grand change of government. R5805:6
Let us not unduly emphasize this feature of the divine plan in
presenting matters to our Christian friends of the world; let us
emphasize the goodness of God and the blessings in store.
R5373:6
RELATED SCRIPTURES --
The "dark night" in which the reapers must cease their labors,
proving that the final work of the Gospel age is accomplished.
(John 9:4) C211
The period of dashing the nations to pieces as a potter's
vessel. (Psa. 2:9) SM717:1; OV324:1; HG496:4
Where there will be "weeping and gnashing of teeth." (Matt.
22:13) R4679:5
The "great furnace of fire" (Matt. 13:42) which comes at the
close of the Harvest upon the unworthy tare class. C146
The tribulation of Matt. 24:21, but not that of Matt. 24:9, 29.
R711:3
The "great earthquake" of Rev. 16:18, 19. SM236:2
The "curse" of Elias. (Mal. 4:5, 6) R1538:1, R3120:5;
OV324:1
Such -- So terrible and so general. D540; R5469:2
As never was -- The greatest is at the close of the Gospel
age, though the closing features of the Jewish age were
typical of it. R711:2, R1743:3
Worldwide and not a local disturbance as were the previous
seasons of destruction. Q849:T
Since there is so much that is wrong now, the retribution will
be heavy at first. B138
Because men were never before so responsible. E410
So thorough will be the correction, it will never need to be
repeated. R1519:4; OV321:3
Anarchy at this time would affect mankind more than at any
previous time in history. R5469:2
Accompanied by a ferocity never seen in the past. R5469:3
The shaking, unsettling and incidental trouble. R1305:3
The effect will be so overruled that such a tribulation will
never again be possible. HG417:2
"Unless those days should be shortened no flesh would be
saved, but for the elects' sake, those days will be shortened."
(Matt. 24:21) OV220:7
"No, nor ever shall be." (Matt. 24:21) R3630:3, R5864:4,
R622:4, R5564:1, R5916:1; OV186:4; D540
Thy people -- The twelve tribes. HG82:4.
Daniel's people, the Jews, and with them all desiring to be
God's people. HG457:6, HG 81:1, HG82:4
The worthy of the Patriarchal, Jewish, Gospel and Millennial
ages. C62
Shall be delivered -- Forever freed of enemies. C62
When the time of trouble comes over Christendom, a great
many wealthy Hebrews will want a place of safety--and that
place will be Palestine. CR141:5
Written in the book -- God has an account, a record.
CR139:1; R1893:4; Q537:3
God is making a record of those who are true Jews. CR139:1
Clearly refers, not to John the Revelator's book of life, but to
Ezekiel's "writing of the house of Israel." (Ezek. 13:9)
HG66:2, HG82:4
"The Lamb's book of life." (Rev. 21:27) C62; F666
Daniel 12:2
Them that sleep -- Note that there are two classes-- "thy
people" of verse 1 and "them that sleep" of verse 2. HG82:5
Those who have died. SM544:T; CR139:4; R1377:6,
R2173:1
Including both the good and the bad. E346; SM544:T;
HG228:5
Death is a condition of rest, of quiet, of peaceful
unconsciousness. R5059:6, R4794:2; E346
Since there shall be a resurrection, God speaks of the dead as
asleep, not extinct. OV333:4; R4588:5
In the dust -- Showing where the dead sleep; not in
heaven, not in purgatory, not in a hell of torment. R5060:1,
R4588:6; SM39:T; OV333:4; PD61/72
In the Bible hell--sheol, hades, the tomb, the state of death.
SM39:T; R2173:1, R5133:1
Shall awake -- As a result of the exercise of Michael's
power. R2173:1
In the resurrection morning. E346; R5133:1, R4775:4;
OV139:3
Some -- Two small classes will come forth already
acquitted, justified to life. R1180:1
Among these will be noble characters--such as Lincoln,
Grant, Plato, Socrates, Confucius and many others less
notable. R2331:6
To everlasting life -- Lasting life in its full perfection.
F716
The Church of glory, in the first resurrection. R5893:3; F666
Like Abraham, their trial is in the past. R3399:3
And some -- Including Alexander, Nero, Napoleon, the
Caesars and the Popes. C62; R4652:4
To shame -- Dishonor, from which, however, they may be
recovered by the restitution processes then put into operation.
F666
Their shame will last until they reform. CR405:6, C350:1;
R2833:2, R5390:2
There is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed. R4992:2,
R2331:6
A time in which characters will be shown up. OV209:2;
R2613:4, R4992:2
The persecutors of God's people will be ashamed when they
come forth and realize what they did. R5479:3
Representing those whose trial will take place during the
Millennium. R2198:1
Quite probably, restored men will have considerable power of
mind-reading and intuitive discernment over the imperfect,
occasioning a portion of the shame of the awakened wicked.
R1954:3
When every secret thing is brought into judgment (Eccl.
12:14) many a face will blush and hide itself in confusion
from others. R722:6, R2613:4; F716
The details of their past life will be an open book to the whole
world. R4652:4
Those remembered as brutal and devilish, such as Caligula,
Diocletian, Torquemada, and thousands less notorious may be
expected among the last to be resurrected. R1529:5
Progress on the highway of holiness will purge one from the
"contempt" of his fellows and correspondingly relieve himself
of "shame." F718
Everlasting contempt -- From which they will be obliged
to purge themselves by obedience to the divine requirements
under Messiah's glorious reign of righteousness. R4729:3,
R5167:4
Self-contempt, as they begin to realize their mental and
physical depravity. R2833:1
Which will last just as long as they are contemptible.
R4992:2, R5167:4, R5479:3, R2331:6, R4652:4, R5390:2,
R5893:3; CR405:6, CR350:1; PD61/72; F716
Some few, because of wilful, intelligent opposition to God,
shall never come up to life. R1180:1
It may take centuries for deeply-dyed characters to purge
themselves of this contempt and rise gradually to true nobility
and human perfection, or, failing to do so, to die the Second
Death. R4609:5
The Hebrew text signifies "lasting," not "everlasting."
R5390:2, R5893.3, R4729:3; F716
Daniel 12:3
They that be wise -- The Little Flock, the wise virgins.

A292; F666; R722:6
Those who so thoroughly believe the testimony of God as to
yield themselves fully to his will are wise indeed. R1955:2
Shall -- When righteousness is finally established in the
earth. R1955:5
Of the firmament -- "Then shall the righteous shine forth
as the sun." (Matt. 13:43) A292; C61; F666; R722:6,
R1881:6
They that turn many -- Of this class were the prophets
and other justified faithful ones of past ages; and some others,
such as Socrates, Plato, Aristotle and Confucius, who enjoyed
only the waning light of nature, but were faithful to that little
light. R722:6
Stars -- The "stars of heaven," heavenly rulers--Christ and
his Bride. R4370:2, R1881:6, R2067:4, R3965:3; D594;
CR350:1, CR405:6; HG334:3
Ancient Worthies. R1409:5, R1955:5; A291
Celestials. R3965:3
Whose brilliancy and beauty vary. (1 Cor. 15:41, 42)
R5951:5,3, R3965:3
They will always be bright ones, men and women of special
honor because of their noble efforts to stem the tide of evil
when the full force of the tide was against them. R723:1
Daniel 12:4
And seal the book -- So state matters that they cannot be

understood before the due time. B87
The prophets of old often did not understand their own
utterances, but wrote for the Gospel Church. R1148:3,
R1418:6, R3646:1
It is (now, in the Time of the End) an "open book"--of
unsealed prophecies. (Rev. 10:7) HG79:2
Even to -- Had the knowledge come sooner, the trouble
would have come sooner. A337
Doubtless it would be impossible to understand many of the
deep things pertaining to the Messianic age long in advance of
that period. R5055:1
The time of the end -- The end of the long reign of sin and
death. CR478:1; OV6:3
The closing of this Christian age and the opening of the new
dispensation. OV147:4; PD90/105; Div; R4353:3, 6
The day of God's preparation. (Nah. 2:3) R1258:4,
R2393:2, R2974:2; HG416:3
Which began in 1799 AD. C63; OV147:4; CR477:6;
R1258:4, R5565:3, R2973:4
It follows, therefore, that no one could understand the
prophecy before 1799 AD. C24
An unanswerable argument, proving that this is God's time to
introduce a new order, is the lifting of the veil of ignorance
and the gradual letting in of the light of intelligence and
invention--just as foretold, when foretold and with the results
predicted. A337; B18; Div
Many shall run -- Then many shall run. A168; C63
To and fro -- By means of the "chariots with flaming
torches"--automobiles, trolley-cars and railway trains--which
"rage in the streets and jostle one another in the broad ways."
(Nah. 2:3, 4) Q759:4; OV6:3, OV269:6; Div; R1142:3
The first steamboat was operated in 1807, the first steam
locomotive in 1831, the first telegraph in 1844. C63
By which the various nations, peoples and classes are
intermingled and waked up to the true situation of matters.
R3898:5
Now multitudes run to and fro whose grandfathers probably
never traveled 50 miles from their birthplace. PD90/105
For concluding from this prophecy that sometime men would
travel 50 miles an hour, Voltaire referred to Sir Isaac Newton
as a "poor old dotard." C63; R4825:2; OV61:4
And knowledge -- Born of the travel and commingling and
printing. R4353:6
The telephone was first introduced in the fall of 1877. Two
events took place in the same year which mark the ending of
our age--the introduction of the electric telephone and the
Berlin Treaty. R480:6*
It does not say "capacity" is to be increased. A168
Promised light of divine providence. R5061:1
Including a knowledge of the teachings of the Great Pyramid.
C319
Including a knowledge of God's Word. Nearly all the great
Bible Societies were established between 1803 and 1817.
C51
Apparently the Adversary is trying to run things in his own
direction, but the light itself which we are enjoying today is
the promised light of Divine Providence. Q579:2
The policy of Satan now is to devise plausible counterfeits of
truth to entrap and mislead those who have been making
progress in the knowledge of the divine plan. R1362:6
The light shining more and more unto the perfect day would
not be contradictory, but establish and clarify the truths
already shown, including the times and seasons. R3437:1
Knowledge is a dangerous thing, except for those who are
perfect--and all mankind, through the fall, are imperfect.
OV147:6
The recognition of the Abomination of Desolation as such,
and in its proper place, is a sign of the increase of knowledge--
and an evidence of the Time of the End. R710:6
Shall be increased -- Made general. OV147:5; R1308:4,
R2973:4
The remarkable fulfillment of this prophecy marks our day as
the Time of the End. OV270:1
By means of printing, railroads, telegraphs, etc., and the
intermixture of various peoples and their various ideas.
R1142:3, R5061:4
The Lord kept back the art of printing until the proper time.
SM160:T
Through compulsory education. OV6:3, OV147:5,
OV269:6, OV61:5
The flood of light now illuminating the world is of God.
R1245:2
God is now lifting the curtain of darkness and bringing to
light labor-saving conveniences preparatory to the great reign
of righteousness. HG302:1
It is because God is lifting the veil of ignorance and letting in
the light which is of him, and not by human evolution, that
present progress is attributable. R1258:4
Today there is opportunity for knowledge such as never
before has been known. Div
As the direct result of the mental awakening of man; printing,
steam, electricity and applied mechanics being the agencies.
D312
The world is awakening because it is morning; the Millennial
dawn is breaking. R5363:6, R1362:2
Our great scientists testify that present attainments are as
nothing to what is just at hand. PD90/105
The increase of knowledge has been supplemented by
governmental arrangements for the distribution of that
knowledge amongst the people. R6014:2
Printing has stimulated a greater development of knowledge
along every line within the past century than during the
preceding 59 centuries. PD90/105
God permits circumstances to favor discoveries in the study
of both his Book of Revelation and his Book of Nature. A168
But this knowledge is coming to people who at heart are
unprepared for it. R5363:6
A Russian statesman said that education is the basis of all the
revolutionary spirit amongst the people. Without some
restriction, education is a dangerous thing. To an
unregenerate heart it means power in an unregenerate hand--
which is not always safe. R5565:4
Not sooner, so that man could fully appreciate the curse, and
because such choicest blessings would produce greater evils if
bestowed on those whose hearts are not in accord with the
righteous laws of the universe. A168
Therefore the young have, in many departments of
knowledge, outstripped their seniors. The wise parent will set
an example of childlikeness and be ready to learn from and
with his children along the line of their superior advantage.
R2074:2
Marking the time for the wise of God's people to understand
the Bible. PD77/90
God's Word is abundantly distributed in all civilized lands.
R3609:4
The fact that the divine plan and its times and seasons are
now discernible is strong proof that we are living in the Time
of the End. B19
As a result the "bulls" and "thunders" of Antichrist dare not
be of the same character as previously. R3227:5
The increase of knowledge is responsible for the increase of
discontent and fear which are bringing Armageddon. Di,
D451; R1142:3, R5565:4, R1676:5, R4353:6, R5364:1;
OV148:T
Had the current knowledge on all subjects come sooner, it
would have brought the time of trouble sooner. A337;
OV148:2
Daniel 12:5
Of the river -- Of the flood, the flood of truth, "which the

dragon cast out of his mouth" (Rev. 12:16) at the time of the
French Revolution. C65
On that side -- Showing that, even when the Papal power
to persecute had been ended, some would be in doubt as to
whether its persecuting and crushing power is really at an
end. C68
Daniel 12:6
And one said -- The conversation is recorded, not for

Daniel, but for God's children living during the Time of the
End. C64
Upon the waters -- Above the waters. C64
Of these wonders -- These wonderful perversions of truth,
the deceptions of God's children and the nations of the earth
by the Papacy. C68
Or, strange things. Not the things of verses 1 to 3, relating to
the Kingdom of God, which were strange, but expected; but
the intervening troubles during the age. C67
The "time of trouble" and the "resurrection" of the context.
(verses 1 to 3) HG87:3
Daniel 12:7
It shall be for -- The Time of the End shall be after. C64

Times, and an half -- In the Bible a "time" is used in the
sense of a year. A symbolic year, as used in prophecy, is
CR140:2
Three and a half times or years (360 x 3 1/2 equals 1260
days; symbolic time --1260 years), the period of Papacy's
power, ending in AD 1799. Compare Dan. 7:25 and Rev.
12:14 with Rev. 12:6 and Rev 13:5. C64; B91; R319:1,
R2978:1, R5565:2, R389:2*
To scatter -- The crushing of the power. C68
The power of the holy people -- The truth. C82
Daniel 12:8
I understood not -- "Holy men of God spake as they were

moved by the holy Spirit." (2 Pet. 1:21) Q787:4
"Not unto themselves, but unto us did they minister." (1 Pet.
1:12) B23
The prophets of old often did not understand their own
utterances, but wrote for the Gospel Church. R1418:6,
R598:3, R349:6*, R1148:3; B23
Even those who walked very closely with God could only
have the light due in their day. R957:2
The end of -- Later than (or after). C83
Daniel 12:9
Go thy way, Daniel -- It is useless for you to try to

comprehend the matter now. C82; HG66:5
For the words -- Regarding the entire plan of God,
together with the time features of it. B18
The prophecies concerning Present Truth. R1489:1
Closed up and sealed -- Their meaning is designedly
hidden. E219; R1418:6, R1489:1, R5055:1
The angels, also beloved, could not understand. R218:1
Till -- Not forever, but merely till the present time. D605;
R598:3, R1579:1; CR213:3
Until such time as God purposes to reveal his secrets, neither
learning nor piety can find them out. B18
The mystery of God is to be finished, completed, and the full
plan of God is to be revealed in this new dispensation now
dawning. R5156:1
Leading us to expect things new, as well as old, to be then
revealed. F233
If prophecy was never designed to be understood there could
have been no reasonable object in giving it. B19
The time of the end -- The period beginning in AD 1799
and ending in 1914, within which time we may expect them
to be understood. C24, C149; D414; F233; OV147:4
The due time for the further explanation of his plan to his
people. R1178:1, R1579:1; E219
Because we are in the dawning of the new age, we may see
the divine character and plan for human salvation much more
clearly than did our forefathers. R5137:5
The work of harvest is still progressing, even though at one
time we supposed that it would be accomplished by October,
1914. Ci
Not the end of time. CR213:3
The end of this dispensation, of the present order of things.
OV269:3, OV6:3; CR478:1
Daniel 12:10
Many -- After the 1290 days or years, ending in AD 1829.

C83
Shall be purified -- Shall separate themselves. C82
A purifying, cleansing, refining work in connection with the
understanding of this prophecy. C83
And made white -- Make themselves white. C82
And tried -- "The trial of your faith, being much more
precious than that of gold which perisheth." (1 Pet. 1:7)
R1822:3
"Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which
is to try you." (1 Pet. 4:12) R1823:1
"He is like a refiner's fire." (Mal. 3:2) R1823:4
But the wicked -- Or hypocrites. R5154:4; HG572:5
Perverters and scorners of the truth. R1896:6
Shall do wickedly -- Without interference from the Lord.
R3304:5
And should not, therefore, be warned of the impending
troubles. F592
None of the wicked -- Unfaithful to their covenant. C166
The tares of Churchianity; those out of harmony with God.
R2691:6; Dii; OV268:4
Not the "tares" but only the "wheat," shall now understand.
R2691:6
Being too indifferent to heed and search for the truth, and too
weak-kneed to stand up for it if they did see it. R3050:4
The knowledge would be so communicated that the ungodly
and unpurified would not believe it. C83
The merely formalistic Christian, merely abstaining from
work one day of the week and going to church, is not to be
expected to recognize his own likeness and to note its
deformities and inconsistencies. R2459:2
The world in general, especially the Christian world who,
having made a covenant with the Lord, are living contrary
thereto. Also the servant who hid the Lord's money in the
earth and returned it to him unused. (Luke 21:35) R2390:4
The viciously wicked are not sufficiently interested to find
out what we believe or teach. R5248:2
We are not to use prophetic evidence as a club to drive the
wicked to shelter. HG398:6
Shall understand -- God's plan and way. A168; R1308:4
If they did, it would be injurious to themselves, and would
interfere with God's plan. CR159:6; SM13:1
It must be evident to all that prophecies, while clear, forcible
and positive, are nevertheless somewhat undercover.
R2976:3
Therefore the New Creation does not seek to alarm the world
concerning the coming distress. They will not "cast their
pearls before swine." (Matt. 7:6) F592
Though realizing that we are living in strange times and under
peculiar circumstances, they try to persuade themselves that
what we see today is merely a recurrence of what has
repeated itself time and again during the past centuries.
SM186:2
The general public does not comprehend, calling it
"theological hair-splitting." R3481:1
Not comprehended, even though discussed freely in the
presence of others. SM6:1
The Lord has so arranged it. Diii; R3050:4
The Lord does not honor the worldly-wise with a knowledge
of his secrets. R1617:6
They cannot appreciate a God of justice and love. R5303:4
But the wise -- Of thy people, wise through faith.
SM794:1; B15, B223; C166
In wisdom from on high; heavenly wisdom. R5248:2,
R5092:6, R1488:1, R2972:6; B223; OV6:3
Wise toward God. R5970:4, R5039:2, R3015:6, R1308:4
The truly wise. R3947:1, R2765:1, R2491:5, R1567:1;
C89
Not according to the wisdom of this world. R5970:4,
R2974:2, R1488:1, R350:4*; OV61:6
Taught of God. R3033:5
Counted foolish by the world. SM319:2; R3015:6
The meek and faithful children of God, whose hearts are fully
loyal to him. R1147:5, R5545:1, R1598:5
The wheat, the Little Flock. R2691:6, R2938:2; SM319:2
The wise virgins. SM232:1; OV61:6; R1877:5, R5146:4;
Dii; HG314:3, HG316:4
"Who is wise that he may understand these things? Intelligent
that he may know them? For righteous are the ways of the
Lord and the just shall walk in them (understand them), but
the transgressors shall stumble through them (misapprehend
them)." (Hosea 14:9, Leeser) R2491:5
Reasoning on the basis of proven divine revelation. R1567:4
Only those seeking to live in harmony with his will may be
expected to have true discernment of the plan of God.
R3727:6
The Lord never reasons with any except those who have faith
in him and trust his promises. R3947:1
Shall understand -- Then, at the end of the 1290 days.
C83; D606; R5565:5
The Lord will open the eyes of only those whose hearts are in
the right condition. CR435:3; SM6:1; R5061:5
In this glorious dawning of the new era. R5154:4, R5817:3
"It is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of
heaven." (Matt. 13:11) CR159:6
The vision and the prophecy. D606
Matters as they become due. R3947:1, R2976:3, R5146:4;
SM186:2
The fact that the antitypical Isaac was not to be only Jesus,
but also the Church--a mystery the Jews and Babylon cannot
comprehend. R4335:1
Be sealed in the forehead with a mental comprehension of the
truth to separate and distinguish the servants of God from the
servants and votaries of Babylon. C166
One evidence of faithfulness today would be a knowledge of
Our thought is that none could be esteemed "overcomers,"
victors, while ignorant of our Lord's parousia. R2942:4
Since many of the watchers are not Greek scholars, God has
made provision through such valuable helps as "Young's
Analytical Concordance" and the "Emphatic Diaglott."
R2974:2
If prophecy was never designed to be understood, there could
be no reasonable object in giving it. B19; R2765:1, R2972:6
Daniel 12:11
And from the time -- AD 539, when both conditions were

true. C83
Shall be taken away -- This occurred some years before
the setting up of the abomination in AD 539. C83
The abomination -- That Wicked One (2 Thes. 2:8); the
Man of Sin (2 Thes. 2:3); the Mystery of Iniquity (2 Thes.
2:7); the Antichrist (1 John 2:18); the Son of Perdition (2
Thes. 2:3); the Little Horn (Dan. 7:8); the Beast (Rev. 13:1);
the Papacy (Matt. 24:15). B271, B277; C67, C76
Particularly its doctrine of transubstantiation and the sacrifice
of the Mass, supplemented in our day by various theories of
self-atonement. C36; D572; F471; R2822:6
Includes not only the mother system, Papacy, but the
daughters as well. R711:1
That maketh desolate -- Nominal spiritual Israel. D571
Shall be 1290 days -- 1290 years, ending 1829 AD, at
which time William Miller began to call attention to the time
prophecies. C84, C87; R5565:5
Daniel 12:12
Blessed is he -- "O the blessedness of him!" indicated by

the Hebrew text. C83, C84; R2978:2, R5568:5, R5950:4,
R5565:6
The blessing implied in the Lord's parable of Luke 12:35-48.
R3355:3
The right understanding of the vision would be deficient in
some of its chief elements until the end of the 1335 days.
C84
A joy of heart to the watchers who see the beginning of
restitution and the second presence of Christ. R2978:2,
R5568:5, R5565:6; C84
Indicating very special blessings in addition to those enjoyed
at the end of the 1290 days; and this has been actually the
case. C84, C88, C197; R2978:3, R5565:6
The blessedness of great enlightenment and appreciation of
God's glorious purposes. R5950:4
All of the special blessings that we, as a company of Bible
Students, have received during the past 40 years have been
the result of the Lord's presence. R5566:1
That waiteth -- That is waiting earnestly, watchfully.
C83, C127, C197
To the 1335 days -- 1335 years, from 539 AD, ending
1874, the time of the second advent of the Lord. C83, C127;
R2978:1, R5565:6
Beginning of the Times of Restitution. B187, B196;
R2978:2
Beginning of Harvest. R5772:4, R5950:4; C94, C197
A date looked forward to by many Bible students as the
possible time for the Church to be complete--although nothing
in the Bible so declared. R5772:4
Daniel 12:13
Till the end be -- Till the "Harvest," or end of the age, be

come. F666
For thou shalt rest -- "David is not ascended into the
heavens." (Acts 2:34) R1591:5
Stand in thy lot -- Arise again for thy portion or reward.
C83, C94
At the end -- After the end. "The harvest is the end."
(Matt. 13:39) C83, C94
Of the days -- The 1335 days. C94; R180:6*
Hosea
General
Hosea prophesied in Israel--the ten-tribe kingdom--prior to
the Babylonian captivity, dying about the time that Samaria
capitulated. The name Hosea signifies salvation and
corresponds well with the prophecy. The Lord through Hosea
made plain to Israel that their national destruction and
captivity was at hand; that it was a punishment for sin; but
that it also told the people of God's sympathy for them, of his
many loving forbearances, etc., and assured them that he
would continue to love them to the end, and eventually bless
them and recover them from the land of the enemy. Hosea's
own experiences in life in some degree pictured the Lord's
experiences with Israel. Hosea's wife was unfaithful to him,
as Israel had been unfaithful to the Lord. Following the
Lord's direction, Hosea took back his wife, reclaiming her;
and his message to Israel was of God's continued love for that
people. R5809:2
Hosea was a resident and prophet in the kingdom of Israel
during a part of the period in which Isaiah was prophesying in
the kingdom of Judah. It would appear that the Lord
permitted Hosea to have certain very trying experiences in
domestic troubles, with a view to impressing upon his mind
the Lord's view of Israel, his spouse. These severe
experiences through which the Prophet passed seemed to be
preparing him to voice the Lord's sentiments of tender
compassion to Israel, his espoused one, who so frequently and
persistently went after other gods. If the prophecy of Hosea
be read from this standpoint, its tender compassionate appeals
will be appreciated as from no other. R2490:3; R2491:1,2;
R4811:2
Hosea 1
Hosea 1:1
Word of the LORD -- First came to Hosea in connection

with his own domestic trials. R2491:1
Hosea -- His name signifies "salvation," corresponding
well with his prophecy. R5809:2
A prophet to the ten tribes of Israel during part of the period
in which Isaiah was prophesying to the two-tribe kingdom of
Judah. R2490:3
In the days -- Hosea prophesied in Israel at the time of
their depravity, just before their captivity. R2491:1, R5809:2
Hosea 1:2
Go, take unto thee -- Hosea's own experiences in life in

some degree pictured the Lord's experiences with Israel.
R5809:2
Hosea 1:3
And took Gomer -- Picturing Israel, as a false wife, and

God himself as a merciful husband. R2491:1
An attractive girl who, at the time of their marriage, was quite
possibly true and worthy of his affection. R2491:1
And bare him a son -- Only her first child was recognized
by the prophet. R2491:1
Hosea 1:6
Lo-ruhamah -- Meaning, "she that never knew a father's

love"; an orphan, not by death, but by her mother's sin. Not
claimed by Hosea as his child. R2491:1*
House of Israel -- The ten tribes. C296; R1341:5
Utterly take them away -- The ten tribes; but he would
have mercy on Judah, the two tribes (see verse 7). C296;
R1341:5
Hosea 1:9
Lo-ammi -- Meaning, "not my people" or "no kin of

mine"; disowned by Hosea. R2491:1*
Not my people -- Rejection, for a time, of all Israel. C296;
R1341:5
Hosea 1:10
Israel shall be -- As all nations, during the Millennium,

gradually flow to Israel and come under obedience to the New
covenant regulations, thus becoming Israelites indeed on the
earthly plane. R4575:6
Sand of the sea -- At the close of the Mediatorial
Kingdom, our Lord will deliver over only Israelites--the seed
of Abraham. R4575:6
Sons of the living God -- Those from among the Gentiles
who had formerly not been recognized by the Lord. R1341:5;
C296
Applied to Gentile Christians by the Apostle Paul in Rom.
9:23-26. C296; R1341:5
Hosea 1:11
Then -- At the time of the rejection of fleshly Israel and

the recognition of spiritual Israel. C296; R1341:5
Gathered together -- As one nation. The distinction
between Israel and Judah ended with the restoration from
Babylon. R1364:6
One head -- Be reunited under one head. C296; R1341:5
Hosea 2
Hosea 2:2
She is not my wife -- The Lord permitted domestic

troubles for Hosea to impress upon him the Lord's view of
Israel as a false wife. R2491:1
She stayed in his house until the sixth year. Then he either
put her away from him, or she went her own way. R2491:2*
Her husband -- Referring to a union in a less particular
sense than the New Testament references to Christ and his
Bride. Here the word husband simply means caretaker.
R1389:1
God was a most merciful husband to Israel. R1389:1,
R2491:1
Her whoredoms -- Hosea's wife was unfaithful to him, as
Israel had been unfaithful to the Lord. R5809:2
Her adulteries -- Christendom is, in the Scriptures,
charged with adultery, in that she lives with the world.
R4811:5
Hosea 2:7
I will go and return -- Not a promise from the Lord that

he would remarry them. C296; R1341:6
Hosea 2:14
Her -- The true Church. R1841:6

Into the wilderness -- The true Church is the Church in
the wilderness. (Rev. 12:6, 14; Luke 15:4; Isa. 51:3; Cant.
8:5) R1841:6
Illustrated by the millions of persecuted Jews in Russia who
tell, not only of their suffering, but of their deep desire to
return to the land given to Abraham and his seed forever.
R394:3*
Speak comfortably -- Speaking to their hearts. R394:3*
Hosea 2:15
A door of hope -- Which the Millennial reign of the true

seed of Abraham will open for these rebellious people. C297,
C296; R1341:6
Hosea 2:18
In that day -- The glorious 1000 years. R541:5*

A covenant -- The New covenant. R282:6, R4371:2
will break the bow -- Dates the "door of hope" (verse 15)
by declaring it to be after the time of trouble, when wars shall
be no more. C297; R1341:6
Hosea 2:19
Will betroth thee -- Possibly the whole house of fleshly

Israel, but probably spiritual Israel is meant. C297; R1341:6
Hosea 2:21
Hear the heavens -- The Christ, as a heavenly priesthood,

shall make successful intercession for the earth. R1434:1*
Hear the earth -- Represented through its "princes," and
these princes shall answer the people. R1434:1*
The new earth (2 Pet. 3:13), reorganized society. A319
Hosea 2:22
And the wine -- Message of joy. R1695:2

They shall hear Jezreel -- Thus the great antitypical day
of Jezreel is to be realized. R1434:1*
Hosea 2:23
Thou art my people -- The spiritual class, selected during

the time when fleshly Israel has been cast off. C297;
R1341:6
"Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for, but the
election hath obtained it and the rest are blinded." (Rom.
11:7) C297; R1341:6
Hosea 3
Hosea 3:1
Yet, love a woman -- Following the Lord's direction,

Hosea took back his wife, reclaiming her; and the message to
Israel was of God's continued love for that people. R5809:2
Hosea 3:2
So I bought her -- Hosea purchased back his unfaithful

wife from the slavery into which she had been sold. R2491:2
Voicing the Lord's tender compassion to Israel. R2491:2
Taking her back under his own roof, but not as his wife. He
was compassionate toward her and her offspring. R4811:2
Hosea 3:4
The children of Israel -- "His blood be upon us, and upon

our children." (Matt. 27:25) R5571:4
Many days -- Many years. OV105:T
Without -- Without any communication with God
whatever; a mark of divine disfavor. OV76:1, OV104:8
Without a sacrifice -- Thus the annual Atonement Day,
for more than 18 centuries, has been a farce--but the matter
should be mentioned to Jewish people with full sympathy,
calling attention to the fact that where the type ceased the
antitype began. OV105:1
Aliens from God, without prophet, priest, sin offerings,
Atonement Days. R5571:4
Hosea 3:5
Afterward -- The time nears when the Lord will pour upon
Israel the spirit of prayer and supplication. (Zech. 12:10)
R5571:4
Hosea 4
Hosea 4:1
Children of Israel -- Nominal fleshly Israel and, doubly,

in its fuller application, to nominal spiritual Israel. D19,20
Hath a controversy -- Because the day of recompenses
has come. (Isa. 34:8) D19
Hosea 4:6
My people -- The discontented, the unsatisfied, hungering

and thirsting after the right was of God--the real teachings of
the Bible. OV263:T
Are destroyed -- Perish. R4396:3, R3941:3
Ensnared by the very ones who should be their pastors,
assistants and protectors; and by reason of their confidence in
them. R4396:3
Are dumbfounded. R3008:5
Lack of knowledge -- Many do not realize how important
are knowledge and a correct faith. R4527:4, R4533:6
Dwarfed Christian life and experience result, except as the
Word of God is understood and assimilated. R5416:5
Faith can keep pace only with knowledge, for faith must have
a basis. A correct life depends greatly upon a correct faith.
R4527:4, R4533:6
Because, though generally swift to speak and slow to hear,
they, through indolence or fear, neglect systematic study of
the divine message. R3941:3
God's Word, through the prophet, applies to Jews as well as
to Christians. OV154:T
False teachings in high places, and throughout Babylon, have
hidden the "key of knowledge" to the privileges and
opportunities of the Gospel age. (Luke 11:52) R2693:4
They are "willingly ignorant." (2 Pet. 3:5) "They hear not,
neither do they understand." (Matt. 13:13) SM288:1
The secret of nearly all the rebellions against the Bible is the
result of a lack of knowledge of God, his plan and his Book.
R3008:5
Being ensnared by misplaced confidence in spiritual leaders.
R4396:3
There is a famine in the land, not for bread, but for the
hearing (understanding) of the Word of the Lord. (Amos
8:11) OV154:T
Few parents realize their obligations toward the children they
bring into the world. R5700:6
Hast rejected knowledge -- Having "hidden the key of
knowledge," they not only fail to enter the privileges of the
Gospel call, but they hinder them that would enter, by their
false teachings and misrepresentations. R2693:4
Hosea 4:11
And wine -- Doctrine, or the spirit of the world. D266,

D267
As the first house of Israel stumbled because of intoxication
with false doctrines, so with nominal spiritual Israel.
R3962:5
"The inhabitants of the earth have been made drunk with the
wine of her fornication." (Rev. 17:2) R3962:5
Hosea 4:13
Of the mountains -- Kingdoms. A318
Hosea 4:14
With harlots -- Apostate churches. B277
Hosea 4:17
Ephraim -- Christendom. D22

Is joined to idols -- The idolatry of money. B139
Let him alone -- For a period of 70 years--long enough to
allow nearly all of them to die in exile, a period in which
those who loved idolatry might go their own way. R3623:5
Hosea 5
Hosea 5:3
Hosea 5:7
Strange children -- Members of the nominal church,

begotten not of the truth, but of error; partaking, not of the
spirit of Christ, but of the spirit of the world. R1009:1
Tares. (Matt. 13:38) R1009:2
Those whom God does not acknowledge as his sons.
R1009:1
Now -- While in a rejected, spewed-out condition.
R1434:1*
A month -- 30 years--the divinely set time during which
the false shepherds shall be devoured. R1433:6*
"Three shepherds also I cut off in one month." (Zech. 11:8)
R1433:3*
Their portions -- Possessions. (Leeser) R1434:1*
Hosea 5:11
Broken in judgment -- Made desolate, "broken through

punishment." R1434:1*
Hosea 6
Hosea 6:1
Come -- In their afflictions, the great time of trouble, they

will come to acknowledge their guilt and to seek the Lord.
R1434:1*
Verses 1 to 3 refer to Israel's judgments and their final
repentance and reconciliation. Q788:4; R2294:5
Let us return -- The returning ones represent those fullest
in faith in the Lord and his promises. Cii
The prodigal must will to return, the prodigal must strive to
return, but the Father will meet him on the way to receive him
and to bless him. R3361:6
He hath torn -- He wounds to heal. SM55:T
He will heal us -- After the time of trouble is past. A256;
SM55:T
The great Messiah, Christ and the Church. SM55:T
As Priest of the Millennial time. SM55:T
The healing process will be coincidental to the wounding and
breaking. SM55:T
When his sharp arrows shall smite them, and his judgment, as
a hammer, shall break the hard, stony hearts. SM54:2
Giving them "beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning
and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness." (Isa.
61:3) A256
He hath smitten -- The Jews had experienced the
judgment of the Lord in the destruction of the city of
Jerusalem at a time corresponding to the fifth thousand-year
day. Q788:4, Q795:2
Hosea 6:2
After two days -- The fifth and sixth thousand-year days.

R2294:5, R643:1*; Q788:4
In the third day -- The seventh thousand-year day, a
sabbath. R2294:5, R643:1*; Q788:4
Jesus spoke in the fifth thousand-year day since Adam. So
the seventh thousand years, the Millennium, would be the
third day from when he spoke. Q635:1; R92:6*
Early in the morning of this third day--the thousand years of
Messiah's reign--"all Israel shall be saved." (Rom. 11:26)
Q789:T, Q795:2
If our Lord knew of the third day as indicating a three
thousand year period, he did not know what day and hour in
that three thousand year period he would be present and the
work begin. (Mark 13:32) Q635:1
He will raise us up -- Two thousand years of the Jews'
cast-off condition is followed by the thousand years of favor
and resurrection--an additional reason why Christ arose on
the third day. R643:2*, R2294:5
A double signification: one phase of this prophecy applied to
Christ in person, and that has been fulfilled, and is the pledge
that the other phase of it will be fulfilled in subsequent
resurrections. R350:1*
Hosea 6:3
If we follow on -- A continuous eating. You must seek.

R201:5
It is as much our work to follow as it is the Spirit's work to
lead us into all truth. R130:4*
Let us not put down stakes and say, "Thus far will I believe
and no farther." R130:4*
We must not expect to obtain all the truth in one swallow, it is
a continuous eating. R201:5
As the rain -- Truth. B256
Of the two rains picturing Christ's first and second coming.
R643:4*
Latter --Spring. R643:4
Former -- Fall. R643:4*
Hosea 6:4
O Ephraim -- Christendom. D22
Hosea 6:6
Mercy, and not sacrifice -- Explaining why the publicans

and sinners were more attracted to the Lord's words than the
Pharisees-the latter trusted in themselves that they were
righteous, spurning to ask or accept mercy; the former
admitted that they were unrighteous and had need of mercy.
R2260:5, R2591:6
The great lack of many critics and faultfinders is their lack of
mercy and of love. R3754:4
Hosea 6:7
Like men -- Like Adam. (Margin and R.V.) R4902:2,

R5832:3,5 R762:3, R4570:2*
Transgressed the covenant -- Abolishing that covenant
relationship and all its privileges. R5021:3
One act of disobedience broke the covenant between God and
Adam by which he was treated as a son and guaranteed
everlasting life. R5149:2, R4902:2, R5021:3, R5223:3,
R5832:3
Because of Adam's transgression the world is not in covenant
relationship with God in any sense of the word. R5162:3
Hosea 7
Hosea 7:1
Of Ephraim -- Christendom. D22
Hosea 7:11
They call to Egypt -- The world. C317; F458
Hosea 8
Hosea 8:7
Reap the whirlwind -- A principle of the divine law. (Gal.

6:7; Prov. 22:8; 2 Cor. 9:6) R1653:3
The time of trouble. D528
Hosea 8:9
Hosea 9
Hosea 9:3

Return to Egypt -- The world. C317; F458; R1681:6
Hosea 9:9
They have deeply corrupted -- It is not God who has

corrupted mankind. R1351:5*
Hosea 10
Hosea 10:6
Hosea 10:8
To the mountains -- Kingdoms. A318

And to the hills -- Less high, less autocratic governments.
D551
Fall on us -- Cover, protect us. It is absurd to expect
wicked men to get faith enough to pray for literal mountains
to fall on them. B139
Hosea 11
Hosea 11:1
Israel -- "Prevailer," the name applied well to Jesus.

R436:1
I loved him -- Love is the keynote of the Bible,
notwithstanding the fact that it contains threatenings as well
as promises, and declarations and manifestations of justice as
well as mercy. R5809:2
Called my son -- The Lord Jesus; to the higher, divine
nature. C316
Out of Egypt -- Out of the world. C316; R1681:6
This prophecy has three applications: the deliverance of the
nominal house of Israel in the days of Pharaoh; the return of
the infant Jesus to the land of his birth; and the ultimate
deliverance of Christ and the entire Church of God. R1681:6,
R436:1; C316
Hosea 11:3
I taught Ephraim -- Christendom. D22
Hosea 11:4
Bands of love -- Love is the keynote of the Bible.

R5809:2
Hosea 11:8
How shall I -- Through Hosea, the Lord made loving

appeals to Israel, as a father to his children. R3463:6
As Admah -- "A desolate room." R3464:1
Hosea 11:10
Walk after the LORD -- The various chastisements of

Israel were intended for their good and eventually made that
nation, at the time of Jesus, the most holy people in all the
world--the only people recognized by God. R5809:6
Hosea 11:11
The land of Assyria -- Babylonia. R5809:2

I will place them -- Although Israel had been unfaithful to
the Lord, he would nevertheless loyally receive them again.
R5809:2
Hosea 12
Hosea 12:1

And oil -- The holy Spirit. T116
Carried into Egypt -- The world, the opponents of the
people of God. C317; F458
Hosea 12:2
Will punish Jacob -- Natural Israel. A300
Hosea 12:4
Prevailed -- Pray perseveringly. R5381:2, 4*

Hosea 13
Hosea 13:1
When Ephraim -- Christendom. D22

In Baal -- Or Bel, the god of Babylon, the Pope. B256;
D24, D40
Hosea 13:2
And idols -- The idolatry of money, etc. B139
Hosea 13:4
Saviour --Jehovah, in that he provided a Redeemer in the

person of Christ. R379:2
Author of the divine plan. E33
Not standing in wrath, seeking to slay or torture until the Lord
Jesus interposed and satisfied the Father's malice and anger
by receiving the blow of wrath in man's stead. E34
Hosea 13:9
Destroyed thyself -- In the days of Samuel, by praying for

a king, contrary to the divine arrangement. R3217:4
The answer to Israel's prayer for a king was disadvantageous
to her as a nation. R3217:4
Hosea 13:10
I will be thy king -- The King whom the Lord intends to

give to Israel and the world is Messiah. R3217:5
Hosea 13:11
And took him away -- The Lord took away the kings of
Israel when the people went into captivity to Babylon; there
have been no independent kings of that nation since. R3217:5
Hosea 13:14
I will -- Jesus shares in the Father's plan for our ransom

from the grave. R387:2
Since the Church is to be associated with Christ in all the
Millennial work, therefore the Church, in that sense of the
word, will be identified with the ransoming work, the work of
deliverance. Q112:1
The resurrection hour has not yet come. R690:3*
Ransom them -- To buy back, by giving a price to
correspond, to redeem. R4818:3; R1228:1, R2399:1
Deliver by a ransom. R5891:1
Used in a prophetic sense as including the entire work of
redemption, down to the very end of the Millennial age.
R5891:1
The word here signifies to recover from the grave; a different
sense than the word ransom in 1 Tim. 2:6. R4747:2,
R4818:3, R4864:1
Man's recovery from death is a part of the ransom work.
R5882:4, R1228:1; Q571:T
The ransom price was paid nearly 1900 years ago, but man is
not yet ransomed from the grave, and will not be until the
awakening in the Millennium. R4617:4
The ransom work will take the whole Millennial age.
R5891:1, R4617:1, R5873:2; Q112:1
The ransoming work will be finished when the New covenant
is put into effective operation; but the atonement work will
not be finished until the end of the Millennial age. R5882:4;
Q571:T
Power of the grave -- Sheol, oblivion, not torment. E373;
SM27:2; R2600:3, R2608:5
All who are in their graves shall ultimately be set free.
OV363:3
"All that are in the grave shall hear the voice of the Son of
God." (John 5:28,25) R2613:3
After the last member has been delivered from the power of
the grave there is still a great resurrecting work to be done--a
raising up out of imperfection of mind, morals and physique
to the full image and likeness of God. R5873:3
I will redeem them -- Messiah's Kingdom will bless, not
only the living, but also those who have fallen asleep.
R5706:4; CR479:4
Every member of Adam's race is to be delivered by Him who
redeems all. HG497:2
From death -- Adamic death. R2608:5
And not from eternal torment. R2600:3, R387:3
Mankind has no option but to come forth from the tomb in
due time, because the ransom has been applied on their
behalf. PT388:2*
In view of the fact that the divine plan has arranged for the
redemption from sheol, death is appropriately described as a
sleep. R4054:3
"Then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written,
Death is swallowed up in victory, O death, where is thy sting?
O grave, where is thy victory?" (1 Cor. 15:54, 55) E373
O death -- Death is not a friend, but an enemy. R625:6
Thy plagues -- Gradual destruction. HG497:2
O grave -- Sheol, oblivion. E373
Quoted in 1 Cor. 15:54, 55, proving that the word hades in
the New Testament is equivalent to the word sheol in the Old
Testament. R2600:4
There is no evidence in the Old Testament that sheol had
more than one signification, or that its later signification was
different from its earlier. R828:6*
I will be -- Future--"in due time." R690:3*
He presently, when united with his Bride, will begin the work
of destroying death by raising all mankind out of it. R381:2
Thy destruction -- Through the opening of the
prisonhouse. R2610:2, R303:6, R381:2, R474:4; OV168:6,
OV363:1
The grave is really a symbol of hope; for we would not speak
of it as a prisonhouse were it not for our hopes of a
In the Millennial reign. R474:4; OV168:5
The grave, the tomb, the state of death, is to be destroyed.
OV168:4, OV363:2
The Lord will break the bands of death and set the captives
free. PT387:5*
Ransom and resurrection follow each other like cause and
effect. R1322:2*
Adamic Death shall be forever swallowed up and cease in the
Second Death, into which it is to be cast by the great
Redeemer. R2608:5; OV363:2
The thousand years of Messiah's reign will be devoted to this
very work of destroying Adamic Death. OV168:4
Death will continue to be an enemy until its final destruction
in the Millennial reign. R303:6, R474:4
"For he must reign until he has placed all enemies under his
feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death." (1 Cor.
15:25) R763:5
Therefore, even if it were a place of torment, it would not
endure to all eternity. E373; Q363:1; HG556:5, HG735:1
Hosea 14
Hosea 14:1
Israel -- At that time, distinct from Judah. R4811:1

The prophet addresses the people. R2491:2
Thou hast fallen -- Applicable also to our own nation. as
well as to every nation. R4811:2
Also includes nominal spiritual Israel. R4811:5
Thine iniquity -- Israel had become debauched through
idolatry. R4811:1
Hosea 14:2
Words -- Of contrition, promises of reformation. R2491:2

Say unto him The Lord. R2491:2
Take away all iniquity -- Israel is here represented as
speaking in a repentant attitude. R2491:2
Receive us graciously -- The people of Israel have not yet
asked to be received by grace--graciously; but still hope for
favor by keeping the law. R4811:3
Attitude of all "Israelites indeed," natural and spiritual, in
returning to God in the Gospel age. R2491:4
Which the Lord has indeed done for the members of the Bride
class only, putting away their iniquity through the blood of
the cross. R2491:4
The great lesson to be learned by all people is that we all need
divine grace, mercy and forgiveness. R4811:3
Calves of our lips -- The fruit of our lips- our praise.
R4811:3
"Let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is,
the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name." (Heb. 13:15)
Q343:T, R4535:1
Hosea 14:3
Asshur -- Assyria. R4811:2

Horses -- Imported from Egypt. R4811:2
The old, false, doctrinal hobbies. (See Isa. 31:1,3) C316
Work of our hands -- Christendom's confidence is in the
work of their own hands--in lodges, unions, trusts, church
membership, etc. "God is not in all their thoughts." (Psa.
10:4) R4811:5
Ye are our gods -- Christendom is charged with idolatry,
with worshipping houses, lands, banks, stocks, bonds, name
and fame. Indeed the serious charge against Christendom is
that she has lost her God. R4811:5
Fatherless -- The Israelites were fatherless in the sense
that they had denied the Heavenly Father. R4811:2
Those who renounce sin have neither Satan nor God as their
father; but to such God proffers mercy and adoption as
children. R4811:5
Only a comparatively few, a handful, know God as their
Father, and are known of him as his children. R4811:5
Hosea 14:4
I will heal -- After the time of trouble is past. A256

Israel, in the beginning of Messiah's reign. R4811:3
The Lord forgives our trespasses and assists us when we
realize our wrong condition and appeal for help. R5598:3
The hand that smote will be turned to heal. A256
The Lord's answer to Israel's repentant words of verses 2 and
3. R2491:4
Freely -- Unmeritedly. R2491:4
Turned away from him -- Spiritual Israel is not received
of Jehovah as a woman, but as a man--Jesus, the Head; the
Church, his Body. R2491:4
Hosea 14:5
As the dew -- Refreshment. R2491:4

He shall grow -- Thrive. R2491:4
His true Israel, The Christ. R2491:4
As the lily -- Whose growth in Palestine is remarkable.
R2491:4
Roots as Lebanon -- The trees of Mt. Lebanon have very
sturdy roots. R2491:4
Hosea 14:6
As the olive tree -- Everlasting. R2491:5

Verses 5 and 6 picture the development and establishment of
the true Israel, The Christ. R2491:4
Hosea 14:7
Shall return -- Have restitution, for natural Israel and all

nations in the Millennium. R2491:5
Scent -- Rendered "remembrance" in Deut. 32:26 and
"memorial" in Esther 9:28. R2125:3
Hosea 14:8

Literally, the ten-tribe kingdom; symbolically, nominal
Churchianity. R2491:5
Any more with idols -- The idolatry of money, etc. B139
I have heard him -- The great Prophet, The Christ (Acts
3:22) R2491:5
And observed him -- Obeyed him. R2491:5
A green fir tree -- An evergreen tree, symbolically
representative of the possession of everlasting life. R2491:5
From me -- In me. R2491:5
Is thy fruit -- Character development. E206
The fruits of the spirit. E206; R2491:5
Hosea 14:9
Who is wise -- It is necessary first that the transgressor

shall come to a realization of his own need and abandon sin.
R4811:5
"The (truly) wise shall understand, but none of the wicked
shall understand." (Dan. 12:10) R2491:5
Not by earthly wisdom and intelligence, but by being taught
Leeser's translation of this verse: "Who is wise that he may
understand these things? intelligent that he may know them?
For righteous are the ways of the Lord. and the just shall walk
in them (understand them), but the transgressors will stumble
through them (misapprehend them)." R2491:5
Transgressors shall fall -- This scripture has no reference
to the subject of temperance, but closes with an exhortation to
fallen Israel to return to the Lord. R1444:5
There is no place on the highway of holiness, the highway of
divine mercy, love, forgiveness and peace, for transgressors,
those who knowingly and willingly go contrary to the divine
will. R4811:5
Joel
Joel 1
Joel 1:9
Cut off -- Hebrew, karath; this word was used in

connection with covenants in evident references to the
sacrifices that would seal or ratify the covenant entered into.
No covenant was really made until the sacrifice was cut off,
or accomplished. PT373:1*
Joel 1:14
Sanctify ye a fast -- A disciplining of the body by

abstaining from delicacies and relishes. R3659:5
Joel 2
Joel 2:1
Blow ye the trumpet -- "Hearken to the sound of the

(watchman's) trumpet." (Jer. 6:17) R309:1*
Still the trumpet is to sound until a company shall be
developed who will be the virgins, her companions that
follow her. (Psa. 45:14) R309:2*
Calling upon all to humble themselves under the mighty hand
of God. D241
In Zion -- The nominal Kingdom of God. D241
Sound an alarm -- Do not, as at the World's Congress of
Religions, cry, Peace, peace, when there is no peace. (Jer.
6:14) D241
In my holy mountain -- Christendom, professed kingdom
of the Lord. D540; A318
Among the true Church of Christ. R309:1
Day of the LORD -- The Day of Vengeance, the time of
trouble. D11, D655
Joel 2:2
A day of darkness -- Ignorance of the prophetic

developments of that time. R264:4
The world will not know of the Lord's presence. R153:1,
R264:4
A day of judgment upon mankind socially and nationally, a
day of national recompenses; but not of individual judgment.
D11
The day that shall "burn as an oven" (Mal. 4:1); wherein the
rich men weep and howl for the miseries that come upon them
(Jas. 5:1-6); which is "darkness and not light" (Amos 5:20);
which the Lord refers to as "great tribulation" (Matt. 24:21,
22); and Daniel as "a time of trouble such as never was since
there was a nation." (Dan. 12:1) D11
The same "day" as in Zeph. 1:15, but not the same as in
Zech. 14:6,7. D655
A day of clouds -- Trouble. R264:5, R153:1; D11, D655
"Behold, he cometh with clouds." (Rev. 1:7) R153:3,
R264:6
In the natural storm, lightning and thunder give evidence that
atmospheric changes are taking place, that the vitiated and
corrupt "air" is to be changed. We rejoice that it will be pure
after the storm. R264:5
Thick darkness -- The prince of darkness now works.
R264:5, R153:2
When the Lord comes and makes trouble and darkness his
pavilion, he takes his Bride, delivering her from the strong
enemy of the fleshly nature into the perfection of the new
divine nature. R265:1
As the morning -- The Millennial morning. A9; E359
A great people -- The Lord's "Great Army" of trained
soldiers of Christendom in rebellion against the powers that
be. D546, D543
Not been ever the like -- So terrible and so general a
revolution. D540
More terrible and more general than the Jewish overthrow of
AD70 or the French Revolution, because man today is more
dependent on every other member of the social structure than
ever before. D540, D536
The battle of this Great Day of God Almighty will be the
greatest revolution the world has ever seen because it will be
one in which every principle of righteousness will be
involved. D541
Joel 2:3
A fire -- Destruction. A318
Joel 2:5
Tops of mountains -- Kingdoms. D543
Joel 2:6
Gather blackness -- As a result of anarchy. R3107:6
Joel 2:7
Not break their ranks -- Describing, not an undisciplined

mob, easily dealt with by war experts, but a mighty,
highly-disciplined host. D544
Joel 2:8
Shall one thrust -- Press. D543, D544

And when they fall -- And they pass through. D544
Upon the sword -- Between warlike weapons. D544
Not be wounded -- Not change their purpose. D544
Joel 2:9
Run to and fro in -- Hasten forward into lawlessness.

D544; A324
Verses 9 to 16 and Isa. 13:1-11 are in striking harmony with
the battle and winepress figures of Revelation. A324
Up upon the houses -- Into the houses. D544
Joel 2:10
The earth -- The present social order. D544

The heavens -- The ecclesiastical powers. D544
The Lord's army is boldly arrayed against the conservative
forces of Christendom, both civil and ecclesiastical, and
hopes even to cope with its present strength. D545
Sun and the moon -- The illuminating influences of the
Gospel and the Mosaic Law. D544
Shall be dark -- Infidelity having become widely
prevalent. D544
And the stars -- The apostolic lights. D544
Withdraw their shining -- When the Gospel is obscured,
and the sacrifices enjoined by the Law come to be esteemed
as merely barbaric, then the apostles also cease to be
recognized as lights. D593
The dark night will come wherein no man can labor. D544
Joel 2:11
Utter his voice -- Using the hopes, fears, follies and

selfishness of this great army, according to his divine wisdom,
to work out his own grand purposes in the overthrow of
present institutions and for the preparation of man for the
Kingdom of righteousness. D550
Before his army -- A great army of discontents--patriots,
reformers, socialists, moralists, anarchists, ignorants and
hopeless. D550
Not realizing that they have been used as the Lord's great
army to overthrow oppression, to bring down the proud and to
thresh mountains (kingdoms), they shall boast themselves of
the victory of Liberalism. R622:3, R362:2; Q23:6; D547
The trained soldiers of Christendom, in rebellion against the
authorities. D549
Now in preparation by the transfer of the loyalty of the
soldiers from the crown to the people. D559-D561
The living saints, and many of the world, are now being used
as the Lord's soldiers in overthrowing errors and evils. B101
His "regular army" are few--a "Little Flock"; but there is an
immense army of "irregulars" in every kind of uniform--Communists,
Infidels, Socialists, Anarchists and Nihilists.
R817:3
Is very great -- And could not, therefore, be the "Little
Flock." D543
Executeth his word -- The beast, or Roman empire, in its
horns or divisions, still exists, and will be slain by the rising
of the masses of the people and the overthrow of governments
preparatory to the recognition of the heavenly rulership.
A259
Joel 2:23
For you the rain -- Truth. B256

Rain has come in abundance in the last few years. Palestine
again blossoms. 10,000 olive trees have been planted in
Samaria. HG649:2
Joel 2:25
Caterpillar -- Figuratively represents God's army.

R5527:1
Great army -- The saints will not be in that army at all.
R5527:1, R362:3
Of discontented, along the lines of Socialism, claiming that it
is God's remedy. Eventually it will go into anarchy. Q23:7
Anarchists may be part of God's great army, in that he will
supervise their campaign. R5527:1
Joel 2:28
To pass afterward -- Verses 28 and 29 need to be

transposed to see the two outpourings clearly; probably
reversed to obscure the matter until the proper time. E164,
E219; R376:5, R852:2, R1411:5, R2504:5, R2930:2
After the days mentioned in the next verse. E219; R636:6,
R5317:6, R226:6, R2930:2; CR216:6
After the completion of the selection of the Church, the
Christ. R4497:6, R3361:2
Will be fulfilled under the ministration of the Millennial
Kingdom. R4467:3
As a work of the Times of Restitution. R636:6
After "we have received the spirit of adoption." (Rom. 8:15)
E163
After the Day of Vengeance has humbled the arrogance of
men. D518, D653
After the days when the new dispensation shall have been
fully ushered in, when the New covenant shall become
operative in the world, when Messiah shall take the stony
heart out of their flesh and give them all a heart of flesh.
HG274:3
After the world has witnessed the Lord's peculiar blessings on
Israel in the Millennial dawn. D639
When the High Priest finishes the sacrifice he will "pour out
his spirit upon all flesh"; just as, at the completion of the first
sacrifice, he "poured out his spirit on his servants and
handmaidens" at Pentecost. R4340:5
During the Gospel age none can receive God's spirit except by
consecration; while, in the next age, the carnal mind, being
removed, the acquirement of the mind of the spirit will be
without difficulty. R636:6
Pour out my spirit -- To put a new spirit within them, as it
was in Adam before sin entered. R111:1, R1412:3;
CR399:3
The general baptism of the spirit. E217
It is the same spirit in both outpourings, received in the same
way, from the same source, through the same channel; but its
seal and witness are very different to the two groups.
R1411:6; E220
To them also, a spirit of begetting, begetting again as human
sons. R1412:3
A second Pentecostal blessing. PD73/87
Then, as now, it will be the spirit of truth; the recipient must
first come to a knowledge of at least the first principles of the
truth and be consecrated to God's service. R1411:6
The spirit of the truth. With truth will go its spirit, its
influence, its power to correct the heart and life and to bring it
into accord with God. R2504:6
Through the truth and the divine judgments of that time. In
proportion as they receive his spirit they will come into the
attitude of sonship. R5583:5
A sign of relationship to God, then as human sons, not as
"new" or spiritual, ones. R376:4, R5452:4
Not signifying as during this age, a begetting to a spirit
nature; but simply that the recipient has come into harmony
with Christ, the Mediator--not a change of nature, but a
restitution to that which had been lost. E220, E221
In proportion as men shall come into full harmony with that
holy Spirit will any of them become eligible to the eternal
conditions of life and joy beyond the Millennial age. E165
As they receive of his spirit they will be coming back to
soundness of mind. CR399:3
The miracle that will cause the knowledge of the Lord to
cover the whole earth as the waters cover the mighty deep.
(Isa. 11:9) HG432:3, HG443:4
"The Autumn rain brings them blessings." (Psa. 84:6) D653
The Ancient Worthies must receive it in the future. R5074:4
"And the Spirit and the Bride say, Come." (Rev. 22:17)
E165
Upon all flesh -- All that Joel here prophesied was not
fulfilled at Pentecost, but what they saw was all foretold by
Joel, and more too. R1411:6
All the families of the earth shall be blessed. R4666:6,
R5317:6; T88
No longer only on the few special servants. E239
Upon the whole world of mankind. R5317:6, R1411:6,
R5452:4; T88
All reconciled to God under the New covenant. R2070:4
All the willing and obedient. R5066:6
That they may come back into sonship. R5452:4
After the overcoming Church has been glorified. R2504:5
Israel's blessing implies the blessing of all nations; the seed of
Abraham being first. OV118:1
Pictured by the increase of the widow's pot of oil until every
available vessel was filled. (2 Kings 4:1-7) R558:4
Enlightening them, helping them overcome inherited
tendencies, and restoring them to perfection. E218
It will be necessary for them, as now for those who would
profit thereby, to consecrate themselves to God, and eat the
truth. E218; R5583:5
By no means insuring the same results to them as to the Little
Flock of the Gospel age; no longer pointing to sacrifice, but to
the laying hold of earthly rights and privileges more freely.
R852:4
The spiritual mind is to be restored to all flesh during the
Then, indeed, all will understand and appreciate the promises
now being grasped by the "Little Flock." A86
Including the Ancient Worthies, to fix, establish and
crystallize their already perfect characters. R5074:4
Your sons -- In the receiving of these earthly sons, Israel
will be the first. God will pour upon them "the spirit of grace
and of supplication." (Zech. 12:10) R376:5, R2504:5;
OV118:1
Your daughters -- We have examples of women
prophesying: Anna (Luke 2:36-38); Philip's four daughters
(Acts 21:8,9); Miriam (Micah 6:1-4); Huldah (2 Chron.
34:21-28) and Deborah (Jud. 4:4-24). R1549:3
Shall prophesy -- Teach, or declare. R226:6, R227:4,
R376:5
Teach--not a teaching in the church or of the church, but a
teaching of the world by the world, under the supervision of
the glorified Christ. R4467:3
Your old men -- Ancient men--the prophets. R4467:4
Dream dreams -- The things they hoped, dimly
understood, and greatly longed for. R4467:4
Shall see visions -- They will see that of which their
Ancients prophesied. PD73/87; HG274:3
Shall see the glorious visions (of restitution blessings, etc. in
process of fulfillment) of which your ancient men dreamed.
R4467:4, R227:4
Joel 2:29
Servants and ... handmaids -- The Church during this

Gospel age, begotten to sonship, "New Creatures in Christ."
R5452:4, R636:6, R2504:5, R4666:6
Slaves--those bound to the Lord by a covenant. R226:6
The holy Spirit is to be poured upon these only during the
Gospel age. R4497:6, R5537:2, R5066:6; CR216:6
All of the "gifts of the spirit," during the Gospel age, shall be
poured out upon God's servants and handmaids, preparing the
way for the spirit to be poured on "all flesh" during the next
age. R103:6
Regardless of age, sex or national distinction. R4467:3
In those days-. During the Gospel age. D639; R2930:3,
R226:6
The two ages and their blessings are distinguished by the
expressions "in those days," signifying the Gospel age, and
"after those days," signifying the Millennial age. R4467:3
Pour out my spirit -- This blessing began at Pentecost,
and will close with the anointing of the last member of the
Body of Christ. R4467:3, R226:6, R4340:5, R5317:6,
R376:5; SM753:T
There have been counterfeits of the holy Spirit in the past,
and also in modern religious revivals. D565
Joel 2:30
I will shew wonders -- The day of trouble preceding the

Millennial day of blessing. R1411:6
Prefigured by the wonderful manifestation at the
establishment of the Law covenant at Mt. Sinai which caused
Moses and all the Israelites to fear and quake. (Heb. 12:26-28) HG399:2
In the heavens -- Powers of spiritual control. A318
In the earth -- Society. A318
Fire -- The burning of cities and villages is surely a fire in
the earth. SM317:T
Pillars of smoke -- Are rising from battlefields, burning
villages and funeral pyres. SM317:T
May refer to social upheaval, political and financial troubles;
also some great physical manifestation of divine power in the
Joel 2:31
The sun -- Symbolically, the true Gospel light, the

truth; and thus, Christ Jesus. D590; R5917:T
Into darkness -- Literally, in the dark day of May 19,
1780, which extended over 320,000 square miles. D587
Symbolically, by denial that we were bought with the
precious blood, and by substituting the theory of Evolution.
D592
Obscured by the thick clouds of worldly wisdom. R5917:4
And the moon -- Symbolically, the light of the Mosaic
Law. R5917:4; D590
The darkening of the Gospel sunlight results in the darkening
of the moonlight. D593
Into blood -- By claims that the typical sacrifices were
"bloody" and barbaric. D592
Joel 2:32
Shall come to pass -- During the Millennium. R5317:6
Joel 3
Joel 3:2
Gather all nations -- In the "Day of Vengeance of our

God." (Isa. 61:2) R5601:2
In the present struggle (1914), where the weak nations are
called upon to assert their strength. SM413:1; R5769:4
Valley of Jehoshaphat -- Valley of graves; valley of death.
SM418:2, SM413:2; R5649:5, R4744:6, R5601:2,
R5805:5; D141; HG472:6
Typifying Adamic Death. The valley of Hinnom typifies the
Second Death. R2908:2
Joel 3:9
Proclaim ye this -- "My determination is to gather the

nations, to pour upon them mine indignation." (Zeph. 3:8)
R350:3
Among the Gentiles -- Among the nations in the
Laodicean phase of Christendom. R1757:5
Prepare war -- An era of war which will impoverish all
nations, sicken all their peoples, and prepare the way for the
universal anarchy with which this world will end. R2327:2,
R5715:2
To eventually become so satiated with bloodshed and misery
as to sicken of war and willingly seek peace. R35:1*,
R269:1
Being fulfilled in the wonderful preparations for war now
being made among the nations (1897-1916). D142
Illustrated by Austria's peacetime expenditure of $75 million
for war preparations (1904). R3396:6
Some sort of a general war, preceding or connected with, the
great time of trouble, anarchy, with which this age will close
and usher in the Millennial period. R3327:5
Such a general war would increase taxation and breed general
discontent alarmingly and quickly, causing the seeds of
Socialist propaganda to shoot up and bring forth red-handed
anarchy speedily. R3327:6
In France, the clerical party would even favor war, in the
hope of reviving monarchy (1903 comment). R3263:5
All the men of war -- We look for a great war in which the
whole civilized world will Be involved. R3296:5
Let them come up -- To battle. R2641:1
"My determination is to gather the nations, that I may
assemble the kingdoms, to pour upon them mine indignation,
even all my fierce anger (the natural result of sin): for all the
earth shall be devoured with the fire of my jealousy." (Zeph.
3:8) R350:3*
Joel 3:10
Plowshares into swords -- In the sense that money has

been spent for military purposes which should properly have
been spent in agricultural implements and developments.
R3327:5; SM413:2; HG674:6
"Your ploughshare steel use for swords." R4745:1
Plowshares will first be turned into swords, and the great
conflict must take place, before they shall be peacefully
turned back to plowshares. (Isa. 2:4) R899:6, R269:2,
R35:2*, R353:2*, R1757:5, R362:3; Q812:2
Those who otherwise would be following the plow and
pruning the trees are forging and handling instead the
weapons of war. D143
Pruning hooks -- Pruning-knives. R1757:6
Let the weak -- The financially weak nations. D143;
R3327:6
Belgium and Switzerland are among the weak nations feeling
strong, the latter having the highest pro rata military expense
in Europe (1900 comment). R2641:2
Say, I am strong -- Drain their resources beyond the
powers of long endurance. D143
Desiring to impress each other with their strength. hoping
thus to put off the evil day of war. R3327:5, R1838:4
"I am a hero." R1757:6
The resistance shown in the Boer war shows how a weak
nation, well armed with modern weapons, may feel
comparatively strong and, if proportionately independent,
even arrogant. R2641:2
Joel 3:11
Assemble yourselves -- Assemble hastily together.

R1757:6
All ye heathen -- All ye nations. R1757:6
Round about -- Nations from every side. R1757:6
Thy mighty ones -- The Lord's holy ones. R3327:5
Joel 3:12
Let the heathen -- The nations. R1757:6

Valley of Jehoshaphat -- "God's pleading judgment."
R1757:6
The cemetery valley of Jerusalem. R5715:1, R5805:5;
HG674:5
To the battle of the Great Day of God Almighty. SM413:T
See also comments on Joel 3:2.
Round about -- The armies of all nations gathered as one
vast cemetery. R5715:1
Joel 3:13
The harvest is ripe -- The Hebrew qatsir, equivalent of the

Greek therismos, refers to the same harvest mentioned in Rev.
14, though, first, perhaps, to the Jewish harvest. R223:1*
Joel 3:14
Valley of decision -- Trial, crisis. R1757:6
Joel 3:15
Sun and the moon -- The illuminating influences of the

Gospel and the Mosaic Law. D544; R1757:6
Shall be darkened -- Infidelity having become widely
prevalent. D544
And the stars -- The apostolic lights. D544
Teachers, especially the apostles. (Rev. 12:1) R1757:6
Withdraw their shining -- When the Gospel age is
obscured and the sacrifices enjoined by the Law come to be
esteemed as merely barbaric, then the apostles also cease to
be recognized as lights. D593
The dark night will have come wherein no man can labor.
D544
Joel 3:16
Shall roar -- In rebuke of evil. R2641:1

Out of Zion -- The elect Church. R1757:6
From Jerusalem -- The earthly phase of the Kingdom of
God. A297
Israel, in restoration. R1757:6
And the heavens -- Powers of spiritual control, nominal
church. A318; R1757:6
And the earth -- Society. A318; R1757:6
Shall shake -- In the time of trouble. D528
The hope -- A refuge. R1757:6
The strength -- A stronghold for the sons of Israel.
R1757:6
Joel 3:17
My holy mountain -- Kingdom. A318

Jerusalem be holy -- Israel shall be saved, rescued,
nationally brought back to power and grandeur. R11:6
"There shall come out of Zion the Deliverer, and shall turn
away ungodliness from Jacob. For this is my covenant with
them, when I shall take away their sin." (Rom. 11:26,27)
R12:1
Joel 3:18
Flow with milk -- Food for beginners in the Lord's way.

A24; D577
Flow with waters -- Truth. C65
Joel 3:19
Edom -- Christendom. D15

Amos
General
Amos is noted as being one of the earliest prophets to
write down the message which he delivered. Amos belongs
to a period about a century after Elijah and nearly a century
before Isaiah, and about two centuries before Jeremiah,
Ezekiel and Daniel. Amos declared himself to have been of
humble birth; his parents were not illustrious, neither was he
educated amongst the sons of the prophets. Like David he
was a sheep tender, a farmer, upon whom the Lord poured his
spirit with mighty power, sending him to proclaim the
disasters sure to come upon Israel unless a change of course
should turn aside the deserved punishment for their iniquities.
R3423:3
It was a time in the history of Israel when the prosperous
class had become wealthy--when many of the nation's wisest
and most brilliant people had settled down to ease and luxury--
to self-gratification. They considered that they had won in
the battle of life, and would now take their ease and enjoy the
fruits of their strife and diligence. It was made the mission of
Amos to call attention to the fact that aggressive selfishness
had accumulated great riches, and that these conditions
fostered pride and moral laxity amongst the wealthy; while
the poor were being filled with avarice, losing respect for
God and religion, for truth and mercy. Society was on the
edge of a great volcano, and God declared that an eruption
was near at hand. Amos was his mouthpiece. R5243:1
The message of Amos is likened to a trumpet of alarm,
announcing the dire catastrophes that shortly would come.
And the announcement is thus made in advance, not with a
view to the bringing of repentance, but with a view to the
proper appreciation of the judgments when they would come--
that the people might know that the things coming were
judgments and not accidents. R2356:2
As Amos was faithful in declaring the message of the
Lord, and was not deterred into silence from prudential
reasons, so those who today are spoken to by the Lord
through his Word and are instructed respecting the things that
are shortly to come to pass upon nominal spiritual Israel, are
not to hold their peace from prudential reasons--for the fear of
man bringeth a snare. R2357:4
Amos 1
Amos 1:1
The words -- Portions of this prophecy imply a still larger

fulfilment upon nominal Israel in the end of this age.
R3424:6
Prophecies of the kind inspired by the Lord in early days are
no longer his method. R3424:1
Of Amos -- Of humble birth, a sheep-tender, a farmer.
R3423:3
One of the earliest prophets to write down the message which
he delivered. R3423:3
Belongs to a period about a century after Elijah, nearly a
century before Isaiah, and about two centuries before
Jeremiah, Ezekiel and Daniel. R3423:3
Of Tekoa -- The home of Amos was in Judah, but under
the Lord's direction, he went to the ten tribes to deliver to
them the Lord's message. R2356:1
Concerning Israel -- The brunt of the prophet's message
fell against the ten-tribe kingdom of Israel. R3423:3
Amos 1:2
From Zion -- The spiritual phase of the Kingdom of God.

A297; T33
From Jerusalem -- The earthly phase of the Kingdom of
God. A297
The habitations -- Because of their close identity with
Israel, the adjoining nations are made the subject of this
prophecy. R2355:6
Of the shepherds -- Greedy, ignorant, lazy teachers. F287
Amos 1:3
For three transgressions -- At the present time to copy

either Elijah or Amos would indicate a total misapprehension
respecting the divine will and message. R3424:1
Damascus -- Capital city of Syria, on the north; in line
with divine retributions. R3423:6
Amos 1:8
The Philistines -- On the west. R3423:6

Amos 1:9
Tyrus -- Tyre, to the northwest. R3423:6

Edom -- To the south. R3423:6
Amos 1:12
Of Bozrah -- The ecclesiastical powers of Babylon. D17
Amos 1:13
Ammon -- On the east. R3423:6
Amos 1:14
The day of battle -- The time of trouble. D527
Amos 2
Amos 2:1
Moab -- To the south. R3423:6
Amos 2:4
For three transgressions -- The basis of the Jewish

Rabbis' teaching of forgiveness for three repented wrongs.
R2665:3
Of Judah -- To the south. R3423:6
And for four -- Peter adds the three and the four, inquiring
whether the Lord would have his followers forgive seven
times. R2665:3
Amos 2:6
Transgressions of Israel -- The ten-tribe kingdom, the

center of the prophet's message. R3423:6, R2356:1
Having captured their attention with words descriptive of the
troubles coming upon their surrounding enemies, the circle
grew narrower; the weight of the prophet's message was
especially against themselves, and they were indignant.
R3423:6
The punishment -- The denunciation of Israel occurs
chiefly in chapters 3 to 6 and in chapter 7:9-17. R3423:6
Amos 2:10
Forty years -- Prefiguring the 19 centuries of the Gospel

age. R3079:3
Amos 3
Amos 3:2
You only -- Natural Israel in the Jewish age. R532:6,

R2518:6, R3459:6, R5614:2; D191; OV224:T
"Israel, mine elect." (Isa. 45:4) F176
The twelve tribes; Israel in its two parts. R2356:1
God's favor to Israel was merely an earthly and preparatory
one. R4769:5
Israel according to the flesh was called of the Lord to be his
peculiar people, separate from the other peoples or nations of
the earth. F85
There was an "election" during the Jewish age. R2396:2,
R532:6, R257:2; A97
Israel only was invited to the "great feast" of Luke 14:15-24
when the feast was ready in our Lord's day. R2701:3
Israel was God's kingdom. On the contrary, the present
governments of earth are all reckoned as "kingdoms of this
world" in contradistinction to the Kingdom of our Lord and
his Anointed. R2364:2, R583:3
The Gentile nations were "strangers, aliens and foreigners
from the commonwealth of Israel"--"without God, having no
hope in the world." (Eph. 2:12) R3467:2, R2348:5,
R1459:3; HG114:3
God did not exact from other nations a tithe, a tenth, but
neither did he promise to other nations his special care,
bounty and blessing. R2485:5
God has supervised the affairs of other nations to the extent of
hindering conditions which would be inimical to his plan of
blessing all the families of the earth. R4055:3, R3012:2
From the time of the fall, none but the one line of Adam's
children had divine favor--the line from which Abraham,
Noah, Israel and Christ came--the line of Seth. R1459:3
Solomon's mismarriages, though worldly-wise, were unwise
from the Lord's standpoint, who desired Israel to be separate
and distinct from all the families of the earth. R2324:1
Therefore it was improper to attempt to convert the Moabites,
for God had not called the Moabites. R5614:2
Even when the gospel "began to be preached by our Lord" it
was restricted to the same "lost sheep of the house of Israel."
(Matt. 15:24) R2518:6
Have I known -- Recognized. R1271:6, R271:3,
R2396:2, R2761:3, R3752:3, R4344:2; A221, A97;
Q756:2, Q600:T; HG428:2
Covenanted with. R1271:6, R4344:2, R4538:5, R3752:3,
R3467:2, R2485:5, R2356:1, R2364:2, R1780:3
God's dealings were with this people exclusively. Q792:4
Only to Israel had God sent his law and given his prophecies.
R5910:3, R5768:6, R4344:2, R3467:2
Adopted as his special possession in the world. R3752:3
Revealing himself to, and in active cooperation with, the
nation of Israel alone. R4055:3; D191
In Israel God placed his own throne, typically, and her kings
represented him. (1 Chron. 29:23) R1978:6
Not until Cornelius' day did any Gentiles come into any kind
of relationship with God. R4769:4
For 2081 years from the covenant with Abraham in 2045 BC
(2081 years after the fall of man) to the end of the 70 weeks
in 36 AD. R3459:3,6*
"Go not into the way of the Gentiles" (Matt. 10:5); "I am not
sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel." (Matt.
15:24) A97; R2518:6; OV224:T
Therefore -- Because of their special favors they had a
special responsibility. R2356:1
Because of their covenant--therefore we should not suppose
that every famine, pestilence or war in the world's history has
been similarly of special divine imposition in chastisement.
R3400:1
I will punish you -- Chastise you for disloyalty. R1979:1
Disciplinary experiences, chastisements. R3223:2, R3400:1,
R5768:6
The laws of retribution operating automatically. R3223:1
Amos 3:3
Except they be agreed -- Israel would not walk in

harmony with the Lord while their hearts were in harmony
with sin. R2356:1
Amos 3:6
A trumpet -- Of alarm, the message of Amos, announcing

the dire catastrophes that shortly would come. R2356:2
Shall there be evil -- "Evil" here means disaster,
calamities, affliction, or physical evil, implying no moral
quality or responsibility. R4731:1, R849:1, R871:4,
R1271:4, R1800:4, R2029:2, R2356:2
In Isa. 45:7, "I make peace and create evil," the same word
"evil" is contrasted with "peace," indicating that it means
"trouble." If moral badness were meant, the contrasting word
would be "righteousness." R1780:2, R1271:5, R1351:2*
The word "evil" in this text has the meaning in the Hebrew
language of adversity. Q773:4
Sin is always an evil, but evil is not always a sin. A125;
R1226:2
Hebrew "ra." Like the English word "evil" it might be used in
referring to anything not good, undesirable. Context must
determine whether moral evil (sin) or physical evil (pain,
trouble) is meant. R1800:2
Jer 21:10-14; Jer 25:29; Jer 26:2-6; Eze. 14:12-23; Amos
4:4-11; Amos 9:8-10 show that the evil the Lord creates is
the calamities and judgments that he visits on ungodly nations
in condemnation of their evil of sin, which is an abomination
in his sight. R1299:6*
All evil (trouble, calamity) is punitive. Had all things
continued perfect and upright there would have been no
trouble or any occasion for it. R872:1
Because of Israel's iniquity. (verse 2) R1271:6, R871:5
Calamities sent upon the Jews as chastisements. A125;
Q773:4; R1271:5, R1780:2
As covenanted, if they would live in harmony with him and
his Law he would bless them in every way; if they did not so
live, he would send plagues and disasters upon them.
R2354:2
Instances of calamities as chastisements are the United States'
Civil War, freeing millions of slaves and, possibly, the
Spanish-American War. R2356:2
A city -- A city of Israel. R1358:5
If the people of any city or tribe got into a state of idolatry or
gross sin, God would send a plague or other chastisement for
their correction. R1226:2
This does not apply to other nations than Israel. R2024:2,
R1887:2
Hath not done it -- Brought it upon them. R1358:5
Two things must be borne in mind: the proper significance of
the word "evil" and the special covenant relationship of Israel
to God. R1780:1, R1271:4, R2356:4
Have naught to do with it? R1271:4
Their calamities could not come without God's permission or
knowledge. R849:1, R871:4, R1271:4,6, R1358:5,
R1780:3, R1887:2, R1226:2
Every drouth, famine, pestilence, etc., should not be
considered as a judgment from the Almighty. R4731:1,
R2356:2
God declared man guilty and pronounced the righteous
penalty, death. In carrying it out, various agencies are
allowed to operate against man. Thus God is said to "create
evil." (Isa. 45:7) R849:1
Divine providence deals differently with spiritual Israel,
natural Israel and the world. All Israel's calamities were of
providence and for chastisements; the Gentile's calamities are
not generally, but only occasionally, so; the Church's
experiences are as the world's, but overruled to bring some
blessing. R2357:1, R2356:6
Amos 3:7
Revealeth his secret -- The Israelites were generally

forewarned of impending evils and given the alternative of
repentance. R1358:5
That his people may profit by the chastisements and
experiences of the Lord's hand. R2356:2
Pre-announced, not to bring repentance, but with a view to
the proper appreciation of the judgments--that the people
might know they were judgments and not accidents. R2356:2
"The Spirit of Truth...will show you things to come." (John
16:13) R3551:4, R437:3*
Those in full harmony with him will not be left in darkness.
B22
God's Word explains many mysteries, and his faithful
servants who study his Word are not in darkness (1 Thes.
5:4-8) as the worldly are (1 John 2:11). R1063:4
Unto his servants -- Thus Abraham and Lot knew of the
destruction of Sodom beforehand; Noah knew of the flood in
time to build the ark; at the first advent, Simeon, Anna and
the wise men of the East knew to expect Messiah. B21
The prophets -- They were to remind Israel of their
covenant and tell them that their calamities were from him
and by his will for their correction. A125
Most of what he revealed unto them was not for themselves,
but for us, the Gospel Church. (1 Pet. 1:12) B22
Amos 3:13
Amos 4
Amos 4:5
With leaven -- Symbol of corruption, error, sin. F464;

T98
Amos 4:6
I also have -- Whatever calamities, etc., they suffered

would be proof of God's chastisement for violation of their
covenant. R2356:5
Amos 4:10
With the sword -- In war. R2356:5
Amos 4:12
Prepare to meet thy God -- From the moment we become

believers and "present our bodies." (Rom. 12:1) R4234:5
Not, as usually supposed, by beginning to get pious when we
feel the approach of sickness, death or calamity. R4234:6
Our meeting with him has already begun. R4234:6
Amos 5
Amos 5:4
Seek ye me -- Return to harmony with God and avert

calamities. R3424:3
Amos 5:5
Seek not Beth-el -- It would be in vain for fleshly Israel to

seek help from the coming calamities in the centers of their
religious institutions which were corrupt. R3424:3
Today, as with the Lord and apostles, the chief opponents of
the truth are the religious teachers who have " a form of
godliness." (2 Tim. 3:5) R3424:2
Amos 5:6
Like fire -- Destruction. R3424:3

House of Joseph -- The ten-tribe kingdom, so-called
because of the preponderating influence of the tribes of
Ephraim and Manasseh. R3424:3
Beth-el -- The city of idol worship. R2356:6
Amos 5:7
Ye -- The great ones of fleshly Israel in Amos' day,

typifying the trusts in the close of this Harvest time.
R3424:5, R3425:1
Judgment -- Justice in your courts. R3424:4
Injustice, inequity, is now operating. R3425:1
To wormwood -- Bitterness, disappointment. R3424:4
Instead of the sweets of justice. R3424:4
Leave off righteousness -- Cast down righteousness to the
earth. Equity was not a matter of primary consideration.
R3424:4
Amos 5:8
The seven stars -- The group Pleiades, in the constellation

Taurus. R3424:4
And Orion -- Referring to divine power in some what
similar language as in Job 9:9 & Job 38:21. R3424:4
The shadow of death -- When Christ appears, day appears,
life appears, fruitfulness appears, and the curse departs.
R302:3*
Into the morning -- The resurrection morning, the
Millennial age. E359; R302:3*
Calleth for the waters -- Able not only to gather the
waters into seas, but also to call the waters back from the seas
to the clouds, and pour it down again upon the earth in its
seasons. R3424:4
Amos 5:9
The spoiled -- The masses. R3425:4

Against the strong -- When they rise in anarchy against
them. R3425:4
Amos 5:11
Ye take from him -- A drunkenness of greed. R2357:2

Ye have built houses -- Riches were accumulated, but they
were in the hands of the rich and the great, and the poor were
being unjustly dealt with. R3424:3
Amos 5:13
The prudent -- Being helpless, and in the minority.

R3424:5
Shall keep silence -- Some did witness the evils, but
remained silent from motives of prudence. R3424:5
Similarly, it is not the duty of the Lord's people today to
reprove public officials. R3424:5
Amos 5:14
Seek good, and not evil -- Make a thorough reformation--

love righteousness and hate sin. R3424:5
Everybody is seeking pleasure and not misery, happiness and
not woe. The difficulty is that all of our judgments are more
or less polluted. R5242:3
Amos 5:15
Hate the evil -- We are to be like God in our loves and

hates--to hate sin and to love righteousness. R1251:1
We must have no affectionate love for evildoers, though we
should charitably hope that much of the evil is the result of
misinformation and inherited weaknesses, and accordingly
should feel and act kindly, with pitying love toward such.
R1251:2
Amos 5:18
Woe unto you -- "Ho you" (improperly translated "woe"--Young). R409:1

The great mass of the human family, aside from the saints.
R93:4
Day of the LORD -- The entire Millennial age, but
generally applied to the beginning of that day. F592:2; B33
Darkness, and not light -- The Gospel and Millennial ages
lap; the one ending, the other commencing. The dark day is
at once the closing scene of the night of weeping and the
dawn of the morning of joy. R592:2, R409:1
Amos 5:20
Day of the LORD -- The Day of Vengeance, the time of

trouble. D11; R409:2, R592:2
Amos 5:22
Your meat offerings -- Christendom's fine church edifices,

grand organs, trained choirs, paid ministers, and formalistic
worship are not recognized and accepted by the Lord.
R5696:4
Amos 5:25
Forty years -- Prefiguring the 19 centuries of the Gospel

age. R3079:3
Amos 5:26
Of your Moloch -- Type of the misrepresentation of God

R2360:1, R3464:6
Amos 6
Amos 6:1
At ease in Zion -- There is a nominal spiritual Zion and a

nominal fleshly Zion. D23; R2357:3
Settled down to ease, luxury, self-gratification. R5243:1,
R2357:1,3
Boasting of their prosperity. "I am rich and increased in
goods and have need of nothing." (Rev. 3:17) R2357:1,3
Wealth brings increased opportunity for sin in its various
forms, including debauchery. R5243:2
Amos 6:3
The evil day -- The Day of Vengeance. R2357:3

Violence to come near -- The poor, surrounded by the
blessings of our day, are often miserable because their minds
are discontented. The result is that their hearts are filled with
anger, malice and jealousy of the rich. R5243:2
Amos 6:4
That lie upon beds -- Creeds. D608

Trusting that the church is being carried forward to the
conquest of the world by an easy path. R2357:3
Amos 6:6
That drink wine -- Doctrine. R5633:2; C160; D265,

D266
Not solely literal drunkenness, but more specially the
drunkenness of greed, swallowing up the poor and needy.
R2357:2
In bowls -- Drinking the wine of earthly pleasure and
extravagance inordinately. R2357:1
The Christian is to be temperate in all the affairs of life--in
language, in business, in food and drink, in joys and in
sorrows. R2355:2-5
Are not grieved -- Not solicitous for the poor. R2357:1
Amos 6:8
The city -- Babylon, Christendom. D527
Amos 6:13
Taken to us horns -- Power. T42
Amos 7
Amos 7:2
Shall Jacob -- Natural Israel. A300

Amos 7:10
Then Amaziah -- Representing those who are at ease in

nominal spiritual Zion. R2357:4
The priest -- Prince. R3423:6
Amos' opponents were the professedly religious, and it was so
also with our Lord. We must expect the same in our day.
R3424:2
Amos -- Representing those who are faithfully declaring
the Harvest Message at the present time. R2357:4
Not able to bear -- He is disturbing the peace of those who
are at ease in Zion. R2357:4
Amos 7:12
Flee thee away -- Because the prophet had gone so far as

to tell openly of the fall of the reigning dynasty. R3423:6
Amos 7:13
Prophesy not again -- The announcement today to

nominal spiritual Zion of the "Day of Vengeance" is as
unacceptable and disbelieved as was the message of Amos.
R2357:3,4
Amos 7:15
Go, prophesy -- The Lord's people today, as Amos, are not

to be deterred into silence from prudential reasons, but are to
speak the truth in love. R2357:4
Amos 8
Amos 8:4
O ye -- An aristocracy of brains and wealth instead of the

former aristocracy of heredity. D309
Swallow up the needy -- Seeking to hold them down to
bare subsistence. D309
Amos 8:5
The ephah -- The measure. R2357:2

And the shekel -- The price. R2357:2
Amos 8:6
And sell -- And sell them. R2357:2
Amos 8:8
It shall rise up -- A new battle has begun on the part of the

rich for the maintenance and increase of their wealth and
power, and on the part of the lower classes for the right to
labor and enjoy the moderate comforts of life. D308, D309
Amos 8:11
Will send a famine -- The 1260 years of Papal supremacy.

B256
Began 539 AD, when ecclesiastical power attained
persecuting ability, and ended 1799 AD, as its persecutions
came to an end. R5742:1, R234:6, R389:2*, R491:5
In another sense, the 1260 years from 325 AD, the Council of
Nice, to 1585 AD. R5742:1
A spiritual famine. R5993:3, R557:3
A hunger and thirst for the truth--the bread of life and the
water of life. OV259:4, R263:3; R3334:4; CR343:1
Resulting in nominal spiritual Israel's being in a dilapidated
condition. R4923:1
The true-hearted are starving. R5063:1
Resulting in a lack of church attendance in fulfilment of this
prophecy. R5375:1
"The honorable men (clergy, bishops and popes) are
famished, and their multitude dried up with thirst." (Isa. 5:13)
R1896:3
Starving upon the inconsistencies of human theory and
"tradition of the elders." R2808:3
Poor parishioners have been fed upon husks until they are
famished. HG712:6
Not with standing Bibles by the millions and general
education, so that rich and poor have the ability to read God's
Word. OV259:2
Our day is full of philosophies, inventions, sciences (true and
false), money-making, financial and theological schemes--but
these things do not satisfy even the worldly. R3334:4
Even Babylon's notables are dissatisfied, famished. R2905:1
My people are "perishing for lack of knowledge." (Hos. 4:6)
They have "hidden the key of knowledge." (Luke 11:52)
R2693:4; OV263:3
Typified by the 3 1/2-year drouth in the days of Elijah.
(1Kings 18,19) B256; R5993:3, R2326:6, R557:3,
R491:5*, R389:2*, R234:6
Applies to Jews as well as to Christians. OV154:T
Of bread -- Crying out for the bread of truth instead of the
stones of error. R1579:2
Nor a thirst -- "Because the people have no knowledge."
(Isa. 5:13) they are consumed with thirst at the present time.
R2904:6, R1896:3
Illustrated by the large demand for truth literature, especially
the Photodrama Scenario. R5618:6*
Hearing -- Understanding. OV154:T, HG317:2
The words of the LORD -- The message of God's love
and of his plan. CR343:3
The necessary thing to do is to resume Bible study and that
without our creedal spectacles. R4923:2
Amos 8:12
From sea to sea -- There is a famine in every

denomination, in every part of the world. OV259:5
They -- The Jews. Q269:2
Shall not find it -- While today the Lord could feed the
hungry Israelites indeed without our aid, let us gratefully
thank him for the privilege of being co-workers in any
capacity. R2644:4
Because they seek not where alone it is to be found.
OV260:2
Amos 8:13
Faint for thirst -- Increasing intelligence on every hand

has awakened our reasoning faculties along religious lines,
and the result is the gnawing of hunger in our hearts.
OV259:3
Amos 9
Amos 9:2
Though they -- Israel, as a nation or individually. E374

Dig into hell -- Sheol, oblivion, death--not torment.
R828:6*; E374
A figurative expression, but certainly pits of earth are the only
hells men can dig into. R2599:3
Israel, as a nation, did dig its way toward national oblivion.
Yet God shall prevent this. E374
Shall mine hand -- My power. E374
Amos 9:6
Stories -- Chambers. (R.V.) R1812:2

Troop -- Vault. (R.V.) Highly figurative and poetic
language, as in the vaulted sky. R1812:2,3
Amos 9:8
Will destroy it -- As a kingdom. R2357:5

Not utterly destroy -- The people of Israel would be
preserved as a separate people from others. R2357:5
Amos 9:9
I will sift -- Disperse. R107:2*

The house of Israel -- Though scattered throughout the
whole earth, they have not lost their identity. R2357:5
Amos 9:10
The evil -- The evil the Lord creates and does is the
calamities and judgment that he visits upon the ungodly
nations in opposition to, and in condemnation of, the evil of
sin, which is an abomination in his sight. R1299:6*
Amos 9:11
In that day -- In the dawning of the Millennial day. E374

The restitution times, under the terms of the New covenant.
R2357:6
This prophecy is about to be fulfilled. R3425:4
Quoted by the Apostle James in Acts 15:16,17. R3425:4,
R2357:6, R2124:3
Will I raise up -- Permanently. C257
The rebuilding of the tabernacle of David, which fell after
Jesus left their house desolate, takes place at the second
advent. R107:2*
The tabernacle -- The house, royalty, or dominion. A81;
C257
The standard. R2357:6
Of David -- Of David's posterity, The Christ. C257
The throne of David was over all the tribes, and here
represents the throne of the greater David--the Beloved Son of
God--to be established after the taking out of a people for his
name. (Acts. 15:14) R2124:3
Raise up his ruins -- The ruins of fleshly Israel. B86;
R3425:4
And I will build it -- "And so all Israel shall be saved."
(Rom. 11:26) B217
After the establishment of Messiah's Kingdom. R5817:5
Amos 9:12
That they may possess -- Called to be members of the

Body of Christ, the great Mediator, that through them the
"residue of men might seek after the Lord." (Acts 15:17)
R4512:2
To be no longer a house of servants under Moses, but the
house of sons, under Jesus. R5817:5
The remnant of Edom -- Christendom. D15
All the heathen -- "All the Gentiles." (Acts 15:13-18)
HG336:4
Amos 9:13
The plowman -- The great time of trouble that will prepare

the world for the Millennial seed-sowing. C216; R1162:1,
R5761:2; Q 74:2
In the time of trouble the Lord will run the plowshare of truth
in every direction throughout the world. R2627:5
In the Jewish Harvest Jesus was the plowman and the reaper.
A double work was being accomplished--reaping the Jewish
people and preparing for a new dispensation. Q74:2
Shall overtake -- Shall follow close after. R2627:5
The time of trouble will overtake the reaping work and bring
it to a close. R5761:2
The Harvest will hardly have accomplished its intention of
gathering the Church and Great Company until the plowman
of trouble will be running his furrows through the world.
Q74:2
The plowman will keep on plowing after all our reaping
efforts have ended. R5761:2
The plowman is already beginning, and he is overtaking the
reapers. Q74:2, R1162:1
So accurately timed is every feature of the divine plan that
part fits to part, and work to work, closely. SM187:2
The reaper -- The Lord. R5761:2 Gathering God's elect.
R1162:4
Began with the presence of the Lord of the Harvest, 1874 AD.
R1161:6
Treader of grapes -- The forces engaged in the final
combat. R1162:4
Drop sweet wine -- Referring to the blessed reinvigorating
influence of the Lord's Kingdom. R1162:4
Hills shall melt -- The mountain (Kingdom) of the Lord's
house shall be exalted above the melting hills (kingdoms) of
the old dominion. R1162:4
Amos 9:14
I will bring again -- After spiritual Israel has been

developed (verses 11 & 12) favor shall return to natural Israel.
R2357:6, R2358:1, R5817:5
My people of Israel -- A scattered, homeless, desolate and
persecuted people, they are still a distinct and homogeneous
people. C245
The waste cities -- In which they formerly lived. C245
Amos 9:15
I will plant them -- Not yet fulfilled in the return of the

Jews to Palestine. Referred to by James in Acts 15:16, "I
will build again the tabernacle of David." R2124:3
From 1878 AD onward. C259, C258
Their land -- The land that God says he had given them,
the land that he promised to Abraham. (Gen. 13:14-17; Gen.
17:8) C245
No more be pulled up -- This could not refer to the return
from the captivity in literal Babylon, since after that return
they were again pulled down and plucked up. C259
Obadiah
Obadiah 1
Obadiah 1:1
Concerning Edom -- Christendom. D15

In battle -- The time of trouble. D527
Obadiah 1:15
Day of the LORD -- Approaching time of trouble.

R2338:5
Heathen -- Nations. R2338:5
Done unto thee -- Shall come into judgment. R2338:5
Obadiah 1:16
Ye have drunk -- Of the confused doctrine of Babylon.

R3999:3*
They -- The nations, not the people. R2338:5
Certain systems of the present time which shall utterly fall,
shall go down completely. R5327:4
Shall drink -- Drink of the cup of the Lord's anger.
R2338:5
They had not been -- They will be utterly destroyed as
nations in the time of trouble. R2338:5
Although the nations shall never rise again, the people who
composed the various nations shall come forth from the grave.
R2338:5
Death everlasting will be the penalty inflicted upon all who
do not eventually come into the fullest heart-harmony with
the Lord. SM766:2; R4553:1, R5327:4
Those who refuse to profit by the glorious opportunities of
the Millennium. R4553:1; Q763:2
Used in connection with certain systems of the present time
which shall utterly fall, go down completely; might also apply
to those who sin wilfully in the Millennium an die the Second
Death. R5327:5
Obadiah 1:17
But upon mount Zion -- The spiritual phase of the

Kingdom of God. A297; T33
Shall be deliverance -- In the Times of Restitution. D558;
F355; R2503:6, R2504:1,2,5
The sight of the drunkard of verse 16 is a good token to show
that the deliverance is even now on Mount Zion. R3999:3*
The house of Jacob -- Natural Israel. C278; A300
Obadiah 1:19
They of the south -- Those restored to perfect humanity.

D653
The mount of Esau -- Christendom. D15
Obadiah 1:21
And saviours -- Christ Jesus and his Bride. R238:2*
Leaders guides, kings and priests, typified by those who
judged Israel. R528:1*
Jonah
General
Skeptics have long been inclined to treat the story of
Jonah's experiences in the belly of the great fish as a seaman's
yarn. Many pulpiteers even laugh at the account of Jonah's
experiences as suitable only for the credulous and not for
wise "Higher Critics." Nevertheless, the Great Teacher refers
to Jonah and his experiences in the belly of the great fish, and
those who believe the Scriptures will seek no better ground
for their faith in the story than this. The exceptional character
of Jonah's experience constituted him a type of Jesus, who, in
death, was swallowed up of the earth, as was Jonah by the
fish; and as our Lord was liberated from his prison house, so
was Jonah. R4785:2
Suggestions regarding typical character of Jonah.
R3568:1-5*
Jonah 1
Jonah 1:1
Jonah -- A type of Jesus. R4785:2

A sharp contrast to the other prophets along several lines: His
character, disobedient and ignoble; his mission, to a heathen
city; his success, unparalleled; his predictions, failed.
R3568:2*
Perhaps, in his disobedience and fleeing from God,
representing Adam, and hence also our Lord Jesus, who took
the sinner's place. R3568:2*
Nevertheless a prophet of God, whose predictions at another
time came true. (2 Kings 14:25) R3568:2*
He was from Gash-Hepher, in Galilee; a fact contradicted by
the Pharisees in John 7:52 when they wished to gain a point
of argument. R3568:2*
Jonah 1:2
Nineveh -- A great city outside the pale of Jerusalem and,

therefore, at that time outside the lines of divine favor.
R4785:3
Foreshadowed the world in the Millennial age. R3568:2*
Their wickedness -- Their iniquity had come to the full,
and for them to live longer would be unwise. R4785:3
There is a limit to the divine permission of evil. R4785:3
Jonah 1:3
Rose up to flee -- Might represent Adam in his

disobedience. R3568:2*
Jonah 1:4
A great wind -- May represent Satan, the "prince of the

power of the air." (Eph. 2:2) R3568:3*
Tempest in the sea -- Representing the lawless mob which
clamored for Christ's death. R3568:2*
The ship -- May represent the Roman government.
R3568:4*
Jonah 1:14
Lay not upon us -- Might represent Pilate. R3568:4*

Innocent blood -- "I am innocent of the blood of this just
man." (Matt. 27:24) R3568:4*
Jonah 1:15
They took up Jonah -- Representing in this the Lord Jesus.

R3568:4*
And cast him forth -- Representing Christ's crucifixion.
R3568:4*
Applicable to some extent to the members of Christ's Body.
One government after another, like the Romans, has been
compelled by God's nominal people to exterminate them, to
cast them overboard. R3568:4*
Jonah 1:16
The men -- The crew might represent Pilate. R3568:4*

Offered a sacrifice -- As the crew prayed to be considered
innocent, so Pilate washed his hands, declaring his innocence.
R3568:4*
Jonah 1:17
Had prepared -- Prepared a special fish, either at the

moment or long in advance. R4785:2
A great fish -- A special fish, not necessarily a whale.
R4785:2
To swallow up Jonah -- A type of Jesus, who was
swallowed up of the earth. R4785:2
While the throats of the majority of whales seem too small to
admit a man, they are quite elastic. The great sulphur whale,
of enormous size, is said to have a throat capable of
swallowing a skiff. R4785:2
It has been reported that a sailor, overboard, was swallowed
by "a great sulphur whale," but after several hours escaped.
Another seaman had a similar experience during a whaling
voyage. R4785:2, R3373:4
Three days and three nights -- Typifying our Lord's stay
in the tomb and his resurrection on the third day. Also the
fifth, sixth and seventh 1000-year days, during parts of which
the Church was in the tomb. R3568:5*
Parts of three days. OV362:2
Important because this alone, of all the types, gives the exact
length of Jesus' entombment. R4603:5
"He hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he
will bind us up. After two days he will revive us: in the third
day he will raise us up, and we shall live in his sight." (Hos.
6:1-3) R92:6*
What is true of the glorification of the Church of Christ, as to
time, has been shown to be true also of the restoration of
Israel. R92:5*
Jonah 2
Jonah 2:1
Jonah prayed -- This prayer holds a type of the history of

the nation of Israel since Jesus left their house desolate.
R92:5*
Jonah 2:2
The belly of hell -- Sheol, oblivion, death--not torment.

E374; OV362:2; R4603:2
Grave-belly, sheol-belly. SM520:1; OV362:2
The belly of the fish was, for a time, his tomb. R2599:2,6
Jonah had been in hell and came out. Also true of Christ,
whose "soul was not left in hell." (Acts 2:31) HG556:5,
HG735:1*
Jonah 2:10
Vomited out Jonah -- The Christ resurrected. R3568:5*
Jonah 3
Jonah 3:1
Jonah the second time -- Jonah would then represent the

great prophet, and Nineveh, the world. R3568:5*
Jonah 3:4
Forty days -- May indicate the 1000 years of the world's

trial time. R3568:5*
Often associated with a time of trial: Israel's 40 years in the
wilderness; Christ's temptation of 40 days; the Jewish and
Gospel Harvests, 40 years each. R3568:5*
possibly prophetic or symbolic time, a day for a year.
R4785:5
Jonah 3:7
Herd nor flock -- It was commanded that the brute beast

should participate in this fast before God. HG508:5
Jonah 3:8
Beast -- Not, as some say, the Negro, but the "herds and
flocks" of verse 7. R3044:4; HG508:4
Jonah 3:10
God repented -- God's purposes do not change. He never

repents of them, but he does change his conduct. He was
pleased to have the Ninevites turn from their sins to hearty
repentance. R4785:6
He did it not -- We understand that God, knowing the end
from the beginning, knew that the Ninevites would repent and
that he would not blot them out in 40 days in accordance with
Jonah's preaching. R4785:5
Jonah did not really fail. The old, the wicked Nineveh did
perish. In its place came repentant Nineveh. So with the
world. The wicked shall be destroyed, but all can have their
wickedness cleansed and be spared. R3568:5*
Jonah 4
Jonah 4:1
It displeased Jonah -- Jonah was more interested in

himself and his own reputation than in the Ninevites and their
interest. R4785:6
The Lord's servants must not be so. R4785:6
How much greater is the compassion of the Almighty than
that of his human servants. R4785:6
Perhaps, in his murmuring, only a practical lesson; perhaps
representing a class that poses as God's mouthpiece, but who
do not like the "Millennial nonsense" of having Nineveh
spared. R3568:6*
May picture the nominal church in this Harvest time.
R3568:5*
Jonah 4:6
Prepared a gourd -- May be a picture of the image of the

beast. R3568:5*
Jonah 4:8
And the sun -- May illustrate the Gospel, the truth.

R3568:6*
Jonah 4:10
Pity on the gourd -- The Lord taught Jonah a lesson

respecting his sympathy for a gourd, an inanimate thing, and
his lack of sympathy for the Ninevites. R4786:1
Similarly, many have sympathy for flowers, birds, animals,
etc., but become angry at the suggestion that God will not
eternally roast people. R4786:1
Jonah 4:11
Spare Nineveh -- Spare the poor world in the Times of

Restitution. R3568:5*
Micah
Micah 1
Micah 1:2
Hearken, O earth -- Society. A318

His holy temple -- The Christ. T70
Micah 1:4
The mountains -- Kingdoms. A318
Micah 2
Micah 2:7
Micah 2:12
Of Bozrah -- The ecclesiastical powers of Babylon. D17
Micah 3
Micah 3:1
O heads of Jacob -- Natural Israel. A300
Micah 3:11
Teach for hire -- "They all look to their own way, every
one for his gain from his quarter." (Isa. 56:11) F287
With honors and titles go salaries, not according to the
minister's needs, but on the commercial basis of his ability to
attract large congregations and wealthy people. F286
Micah 4
Micah 4:1
That the mountain -- The Kingdom. C235; D628; E44;

R4796:1, R5294:4
House of the LORD -- House of Jehovah. E44
His Church. R4796:1
In the top of -- Overtopping, or overruling. D628; E44;
R4796:1
The mountains -- All earthly kingdoms. R4796:1,
R5294:4; D628; E44
It shall be exalted -- This exaltation began in April 1878
AD. C235
Above the hills -- The highest peaks. D628
Shall flow unto it -- God's favors are marked out for the
heavenly and the earthly seeds of Abraham--the earthly
through the heavenly. It follows that the blessings of other
nations will come through their affiliation with these.
R4320:6
The whole world will become attached to Israel as a part of
Abraham's earthly seed. CR485:3
The attraction will be the blessings of health and restitution.
R4796:1
Micah 4:2
Many nations -- Representing the world in general outside

of those who have accepted the terms of God's New covenant
with Israel. Q60:7,2
Thus Abraham will become gradually "a father of many
nations." (Gen. 17:5) CR59:6
Let us -- The poor world. SM15:1
All who will--by circumcision of the heart. R4454:3;
CR59:6
Let us come into line with the divine government established
in Israel. CR59:6
Go up -- Saying: Whether imposters or not, the work of
these men who claim to be the resurrected prophets is the
very one the world needs. D628
They will behold in Israel the beginning of the reign of
Mountain of the LORD -- Kingdom of Jehovah. A297;
E44; SM16:T
It must not be forgotten that all blessings are of the Father,
though all are by the Son. (1 Cor. 8:6) E45
The divine government established in Israel in the hands of
the Ancient Worthies will be the center of divine favor.
R4320:6
Thither all the nations of earth will send their ambassadors,
and from thence take their laws. OV69:1
To the house -- All must come under the arrangements of
the Messianic Kingdom in order to share with the Jews in the
blessings of that time. R4840:3,5
Of the God of Jacob -- Natural Israel. A300
The blessings of the New Law covenant are definitely shown
to be Israelitish. R4454:2, R4796:1; Q622:1
The New covenant will be inaugurated with natural Israel,
and gradually the whole world will become attached to Israel
as a part of Abraham's earthly seed. CR485:3
The Kingdom will be closely identified with the Zionist
movement and the Holy Land. R4796:1
He will teach us -- The world in general will petition for
the same government and laws as Israel. R1529:2
He has done for the Jew first, but he will also do for us.
R4840:5, R4796:4
Of his ways -- The instruction of the Kingdom. HG439:6
They will see that the only way for them to get God's blessing
will be by coming in under the New covenant arrangements
through Israel. Q205:T
Walk in his paths -- We will walk in the paths which he
directs. CR59:6
They will then be willing to hearken to divine wisdom.
R2334:5
"All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth." (Psa. 25:10)
R2334:6
Kingdom blessings will be operative only toward those who
will seek to keep the divine law. But as the nations perceive
there is no blessing apart from keeping this law. they will
doubtless be influenced to do so. R4819:5
Not until they do this will the Mediator recognize them in any
sense of the word, nor will they be on probation for
everlasting life. As soon as they are ready to walk in the way
of holiness they will be counted as his children. Q60:7
"They shall return even to the Lord, and he shall be entreated
of them and shall heal them." (Isa. 19:22) A256
Other nations, seeing the blessings and prosperity of Israel,
will want to join with them. Q622:1, Q206:2, Q170:8,
Q213:2
For the law -- The Kingdom class will all be in glory, and
Satan bound. SM15:1
In the Millennial day nothing in the nature of sin will be
allowed. R5770:5
Illustrated by the reading of the blessings and curses of the
Law from Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim. (Deut. 27:12, 13)
R3091:2
Go forth of Zion -- The spiritual phase of the Kingdom;
the glorified Christ, Head and Body. OV320:4; A297;
C293; D628; R4454:3, R4494:3, R4464:4; Q206:2,
Q170:8
The Celestial Kingdom. OV320:4
Word of the LORD -- Divine messages, through the
"princes." D620
From Jerusalem -- The seat of the earthly representative
government in the hands of the "princes." R4454:3,
R4464:6, R4494:3, R1529:3; CR59:6; OV320:4; D629
Natural Israel. Q170:8
After Israel is in favor with God. Q206:2
The To-Be Capital of the world under the Millennial
Kingdom arrangements. OV69:1, OV320:4
Micah 4:3
He shall judge -- Previously, in the great time of trouble.

D629
Favoring most the nations which are most righteous. R4796:4
And rebuke -- All unrighteousness. R4796:4
And they shall -- As a result of the Lord's rebukes and
subsequently his law and Word. D629
Sword into plowshares -- The metal previously used in
weapons of destruction will be used to till the earth. R4796:4
War will so utterly wreck the participating nations that they
will have no strength for further combat, no gold reserves or
war chests for further military purposes. R5852:2
Spears into pruning hooks -- Through Messiah's Kingdom
saying, "Peace, be still." R5601:2
Not lift up a sword -- Man's extremity will be God's
opportunity. R5823:6
For Satan shall be bound and righteousness shall control.
R260:4
Learn war any more -- Under Messiah's Kingdom wars
will cease forever. R5760:3, R4796:4
Micah 4:4
They -- Israel restored to divine favor; also all the families

of the earth. R4675:1, R4966:2; CR116:6
Every man -- Not applicable to spiritual Israel, who will
be reigning with Christ. OV108:2; R4071:5
Under his vine -- Not under some landlord's vine, but his
own. R2323:4
Home ownership shall be general. R2323:5
Under his fig tree -- Rejoicing in the fruit of their own
planting. R615:5*
This is an earthly, not a heavenly promise. R5575:1,
R4966:1, R4675:1, R637:5, R4548:6; HG132:1; CR116:6;
Q178:9
Micah 4:6
In that day -- Since AD 1878. R351:2,4*
Micah 4:8
Tower of the flock -- The Christ, Head and Body. E45;

D648; R4018:6*
Jesus, by his obedience unto death, has become the strong
tower, the fortress, the protection, to all of God's people.
R4796:4
Unto thee shall it come -- It would come to the one who
would keep the law, and he would have a right to all the
blessings God gave to mankind originally. Q182:T
He both won it and laid it down at the same time. He won it
by obedience to the Law, and by the sacrifice of himself laid
it down so that he could have the right to give it to Adam and
his race. Q228:T
After the completion of the Church he proposes to give that
dominion to mankind. Q228:T
The first dominion -- Adam's dominion as earth's king,
representative of God, his Creator and Father. D648; E152;
Q182:T; R4796:4
Lost by Adam in Eden, redeemed by Jesus at Calvary. E45
Daughter of Jerusalem -- The Bride. "The Jerusalem that
is above, the mother (in prospect) of us all." (Gal. 4:26)
HG16:4
Micah 5
Micah 5:1
They shall smite -- Though the scribes and chief priests

understood of Jesus' birthplace, they could not see that he
would be smitten. R436:1
Micah 5:2
But thou, Beth-lehem -- One of the many prophecies

which indicate that the Bible is a divine revelation. A58
Though thou be little -- "Art not the least"--the chief city
of the province. R1401:3
In olden times there were honorable cities and mean cities.
Nazareth was one of the latter, while Bethlehem was
distinctly one of the former--the city of David. R3700:3,5
Shall he come forth -- Fulfilled in a seemingly accidental
manner, because of the taxation decree of Caesar Augustus.
(Luke 2:1) R3700:5, R2556:2
Have been -- Have been foretold. E45; R2556:2,
R3700:5
From everlasting -- His coming and Messiahship were
purposed and provided for in the divine plan. E45
Micah 5:3
Therefore -- In view of the fact that the Jews were willing

to persecute our Lord as Ishmael persecuted Isaac. PT365:T*
Will he give them up -- The children of the Law covenant
were to be given up, cast off, until the Sarah covenant would
bring forth the whole Isaac class. PT365:T*; R4450:2*
Shall return -- When the Sarah covenant has brought forth
The Christ. R4450:2*
Micah 5:4
And Feed -- Feed Jehovah's flock. (Psa. 23:1) E45
Micah 6
Micah 6:2
O mountains -- Kingdoms. D20

The LORD'S controversy -- "It is the Day of the Lord's
Vengeance and the year of recompenses for the controversy
of Zion." (Isa. 34:8) The Lord has taken cognizance of the
controversy, the strife and contention, in nominal Zion. Now
the day of recompenses has come, and the Lord has a
controversy with them. D19
Strong foundations -- Hitherto strong foundations. D20
Of the earth -- Of society. D20
Hath a controversy -- The Day of Vengeance, the time of
trouble. D20
With his people -- With his professed people. D20,
D186; R577:4, R1547:2
Micah 6:4
Miriam -- An example of a woman prophesying. Female

as well as male stewards are to use all their talents.
R1549:3,4
Micah 6:5
Remember now -- Each book of the Bible is linked with

all the rest by their common spirit and harmony. and by their
mutual endorsement. R1145:5
Micah 6:8
The LORD -- Jehovah. R5408:2

Require -- These things are required of everybody who
would have any standing with the Lord. R5310:1
God does not require sacrifice--it is a privilege. He does
require loyalty and obedience. R5408:4, R5310:2
The Law, given to the Jews through Moses, will be given to
the whole world of mankind through Messiah. R5408:5
Of thee -- Micah is addressing the Jews, and his message
was from the standpoint of the Law. R5408:4, R5309:6
No Jew ever fulfilled the Law except Jesus. R5408:4
But to do justly -- The strict following of the golden rule,
enjoined by the Great Teacher. R4821:2
Amplifying the golden rule--deal justly with others if you
would expect them to deal justly with you; be merciful with
others if you would expect them to be merciful with you.
R5310:1
The prophet was encouraging the Jews to do their best to
fulfil the Law's requirements. R5408:4
For one to keep the principles of truth and righteousness
before his own mind is to be a thoroughly upright man or
woman, in whom truth, purity, goodness, will be in control.
R5309:2
We are not to expect full justice from others. R5310:1
Nothing less than justice should be thought of. R5310:1
Justice is a quality which we are not permitted to exalt too
highly, except in our hearts and minds, as a principle of the
divine standard. R5309:1
Justice in our words means not even insinuating evil, In order
to operate in our words it must operate in our hearts and
minds. To do justly signifies absolute righteousness in
thought, word and conduct. R4821:2
To do justly means justice between servant and master,
mistress and maid, buyer and seller. R4821:2
We are not required to do more than justice, but we are
permitted to do more. R5310:4
To love mercy -- Kindness. R5408:2
Only those who show mercy to others will themselves receive
mercy at the Lord's hands. R4821:4
To delight in yielding personal rights and privileges in the
interest of others when no principles are involved. R3021:1
Many, while seeking to practice mercy, do not love it.
R4821:4
Having the principles of truth and righteousness in control,
one should cultivate more and more the quality of mercy.
R5309:2
Love requires that we deal justly with all, that we seek to
cultivate the appreciation of the rights of others; but
additionally, to have the spirit of sacrifice which gladly lays
down life itself for the brethren. R5310:5, R3020:5,
R3021:1
Walk humbly -- That condition of mind in which we could
be taught of him. R5310:1
Those most able and willing to follow the first two
requirements are apt to be the most delinquent in the third, apt
to be possessed of a spirit of pride. R4821:5
Lest we ourselves should not be accounted worthy of the
great prize. R4655:4
The most humble are often those who have had great sins and
weaknesses which have humbled them. R4821:5
Micah 6:9
Hear ye the rod -- Symbolizing divine authority. R4058:4
Micah 7
Micah 7:1
Woe is me! -- The true Church. R2142:5*
Micah 7:3
That they -- Present systems of oppression, trusts.

R2142:5*
Micah 7:4
The best of them -- The nominal church. R2142:5*
Micah 7:5
Trust ye -- Addressed to the Little Flock, as in Luke 21:16.

R2142:5*
Not in a friend -- Unless they join us in the same narrow
way of sacrifice, for their very love for us will often cause
them to bitterly oppose us. And in the end even that love will
sometimes turn to hatred. R1069:5*
Guide -- Whether a minister of the nominal church, or
parents, or husbands, or Christians of considerable
advancement, highly esteemed for their works' sake.
R1069:5*
None of our former guides must be looked to as guides now.
R1069:5*
From her -- The wife (or husband) who hitherto entered
into all your plans will not now be able to sympathize with
you unless of the same consecrated class. R1069:5*
Micah 7:6
The son dishonoureth -- If a parent would have peace in

the home circle, it should be established on the recognition in
the family of the righteous principle of parental authority over
children who have not attained their majority. R1070:1*
Men of his own house -- Their very love for us will often
cause them to bitterly oppose us. R1069:5*
"I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the
daughter against her mother, and the daughter-in-law against
her mother-in-law." (Matt. 10:35) R1069:3*
When law and order give way before the mad passions of the
ruthless mob. HG22:6
The Lord's brethren did not believe on him and seemed
ashamed of the unpopular notoriety which his course brought
upon them as a family. R1069:3*
Micah 7:7
Therefore -- Though all other helps and comforts fail.

R1069:6*
I -- The Little Flock. R2142:5*
Look unto the LORD -- Through his Word. In him we
must find our friend, comforter and guide, and learn his will
and plan. R1069:6*
I will wait -- We must wait patiently for the grand
outworking of his plan. R1069:6*
Micah 7:8
Against me -- The Little Flock. R2142:5*

When I fall -- In death. R1070:2*
I shall arise -- In the likeness of our lord. R1070:3*
In darkness -- Partial gloom and confusion. R2142:5*
Shall be a light -- The Lord will always be our light if we
walk in close harmony with him. R1070:2*
Micah 7:10
She that is mine enemy -- The nominal church. R2142:5*
Micah 7:11
Thy walls -- Their salvation. "We have a strong city;

salvation will God appoint for walls and bulwarks" (Isa.
26:1) HG68:3
The decree -- Of the Kingdom of God being taken from
them at the first advent of Christ. HG68:3
Micah 7:15
According to the days -- Like the deliverance from

Pharaoh. D556
As it was then in the midst of great trial and distress, so now
their deliverance will not be without distress. R384:6
Thy coming out -- A type of entering the Millennium.
R2142:5*
The restoration of the Jews takes place in the midst of great
trouble and during the pouring out of the seven last plagues,
according to the type. R127:5*; D556; HG91:5
I shew unto him -- Unto regathered Israel in the close of
the time of trouble. D556; R2142:5*
Micah 7:17
Lick the dust -- Be destroyed. R1649:6, R2920:4

Like a serpent -- Typical of Satan. R1649:6
Micah 7:18
Delighteth in mercy -- The heathen gods are all vengeful.

The God of the Bible alone lays claim to being a God of love,
"whose mercy endureth forever." R4892:3
Nahum
Nahum 1
Nahum 1:1
Burden of Nineveh -- As Babylon refers to the apostate

church of Rome, so Nineveh, we think, refers to the world
and conditions affecting both the church and the world at this
time. R480:4*
Nahum 1:2
Take vengeance -- The Day of Wrath will completely

consume earthly governments and Churchianity in a fire of
anarchy. Nothing shall quench that fire, it will cause the utter
destruction of present systems. R2565:1
He reserveth wrath -- The wrath of God is love's severity,
love's parental rod, inflicting no needless pain and never
striking in vain, nor ceasing to strike till sin shall be no more.
D562*
Nahum 1:3
Acquit the wicked -- The demands of justice must be

satisfied. E28, E422, E464, E448-452; A155
God did not pardon Adam's transgression and remit its
penalty. E460
Hath his way -- Makes himself known. D238
In the whirlwind -- The whirlwind of revolution, the
intense and complicated trouble and commotion of the Day of
Vengeance. D13, D238, D528
In the storm -- Of trouble. D238
"Behold it cometh mighty and strong from the Lord, as a
tempest of hail and a devouring storm, as a flood of mighty
waters overflowing, and shall cast down to the earth with
power the crown of pride." (Isa. 28:2) D528
Nahum 1:5
The mountains -- Kingdoms. A318

And the earth -- The present organization of society.
C229; D46, D528; A323
Is burned -- Is destroyed. D528
Nahum 1:6
Like fire -- The fire of God's retributive vengeance

burning up present evils. D529
Nahum 1:7
The LORD is good -- Though the waking hour be one of

clouds and thick darkness, the work of destruction will be a
"short work" (Matt. 24:22), and immediately afterward the
glorious Sun of Righteousness will begin to shine forth.
D558
Nahum 1:8
Overrunning flood -- Deluge of truth. D529

And darkness -- Ignorance. A18; B167
Nahum 1:9
Make an utter end -- Of iniquity. D558

Of this present order of things. R1705:5
Nahum 1:10
Together as thorns -- There can be no peaceful and

comfortable affiliation of liberty-loving Protestants with the
tyrannical spirit of Papacy. D267, D552
Thorns in each other's sides. D552; R1705:5
As drunkards -- Intoxicated with the spirit of the world,
the wine of Babylon. D267, D552; R1705:5
Shall be devoured -- Overwhelmed and, as religious
systems, utterly destroyed in the great cataclysm of trouble
and anarchy now impending. D552, D267
Shortly after the great religious federation has been perfected
the upheavals of socialism and anarchy will suddenly destroy
them. R1705:5
Nahum 1:15

The feet -- The last members of the Body of Christ. A341;
B253, B254; C236, C301
Not literal feet, any more than in the passage, "His feet shall
stand in that day upon the Mount of Olives." (Zech. 14:4)
B157
Of him -- Christ in the flesh, the Elijah. A341; B253,
B254; C236, C301
Publisheth peace -- A ransom for all and consequent
blessings for all, deliverance. A341; C236
Nahum 2
Nahum 2:3
Chariots -- A Jewish proverb declares, "When the railway
reaches Jerusalem, Messiah comes." C272
The locomotives for the Jaffa and Jerusalem railroad recently
(1891) reached Palestine. R1304:5
Automobiles, trains, etc., by which people are running to and
fro. (Dan 12:4) Q759:5; R480:4*
Flaming torches -- Trains in the night seem like torches.
R480:5*
The day -- The period of time when the Lord God would
prepare, or make ready, the elements and conditions for the
new dispensation, "The Golden Age of Prophecy." Q759:4
The period for the "flashings of Jehovah's lightnings" (Psa.
77:18) for the blessing of mankind. A171
Beginning with the flood of truth mentioned in Dan. 12:5-7
and Rev. 12:15,16; also marking the end of Papal power.
C67, C65, C66
In which the world has been since 1799 AD. OV384:3,
OV46:2; R1258:4
115 years from 1799 to 1914 AD. C23
More than 70 Bible prophecies relate to the "Day of
Preparation." Q759:4
Of his preparation -- For the Millennium, Messiah's
Kingdom. OV147:3, OV384:3; SM159:1, SM445:2,
SM699:1; R1258:4, R1487:6, R1691:3, R4431:2,
R4790:3, R5722:1
We are in the Day of the Lord's Preparation. SM446:1;
R4431:2, R4790:3; Q759:4
Preparation for the wind-up of the present evil world (age),
and for the inauguration of the world (age) to come, wherein
dwelleth righteousness. (2 Pet 3:13) OV147:3; Q759:5
Modern inventions and advantages are preparations for the
Millennium. CR60:4,5; R4431:2, R5722:2, R1258:4;
A169; C172; OV384:3; SM159:1
Another name for the "Time of the End" (Dan 11), because
the increase of knowledge paves the way for the Millennium,
making ready the mechanical devices that will economize
labor. In another sense, by giving to all a taste of liberty and
luxury that will become agencies of class-power, resulting in
the uprising of the masses and the overthrow of the present
dominions of earth. C23
In which every question of moral rights and obligations,
including the relationship between men and women, is
coming forward for consideration and ventilation. R1548:3
As a logical consequence of the increase of knowledge the
civil and ecclesiastical powers of Babylon are now being
weighed in the balance of justice in full view of the whole
world. D75
Many of the Lord's professed followers regard his present
"strange work" (Isa. 28:21,22) as an innovation, rather than a
preliminary preparation for the glorious reign of the Prince of
Peace. R1487:6
In which the increase of knowledge, of God's appointment, is
one of the influences now at work binding Satan by curtailing
his influence and circumscribing his power. A265
Inventions of this time have been a great blessing; yet,
because of selfishness, they have been injurious to many.
SM699:1
Mechanical inventions, which for a time brought prosperity
and promised great future blessings, proved to make the best
of all slaves, decreasing the need for unskilled labor, even
while population rises rapidly. R1691:3
If present inventions are but preparations for the glorious day,
what may we not expect of a growingly intelligent race under
the supervision of the perfect Ancient Worthies and the great
Messiah. OV46:2
God is getting the forces of nature ready for the blessing of all
the nations of the earth. CR60:5
The Lord did not favor general education until the Day of His
Preparation. SM160:T
When 75 years of this day had developed the proper
conditions for the beginning of his great work, the Master
stepped upon the scene quietly. The remaining years of this
Day will accomplish the setting up or establishment of his
Kingdom in power and glory. C130
The fir trees -- Symbolic of the Lord's people. R480:5*
Terribly shaken -- Before the storm-blast. R480:5*
Nahum 2:4
They shall justle -- At their "couplings." R480:5*

Like the lightnings -- The foregoing is a symbolic
representation of a railway train. C272; R1304:5
The modern term for a fast train is "the lightning train."
R480:5*
Automobiles are also "chariots with flaming torches," which
"rage in the streets." Q759:5
Habakkuk
Habakkuk 1
Habakkuk 1:2
O LORD, how long -- Habakkuk, representative of all

who love righteousness, asks how long it will be until the
present evil world will give place to the world to come
"wherein dwelleth righteousness." (2 Pet. 3:13) R622:2
Shall I cry -- Have I entreated. R622:1
Of violence -- Because of violence. R622:1
Habakkuk 1:3
Spoiling -- Robbery. R622:1

And there are -- And there is a judgment, but oppression
is more powerful. R622:1
Habakkuk 1:4
Slacked -- Powerless. R622:1

Judgment doth never -- Justice cometh not forth
victorious. R622:1
Wrong judgment proceedeth -- Therefore doth justice
come forth perverted. R622:1
Habakkuk 1:5
Behold ye -- Look ye about. R622:2

The Lord answers the complaint. R622:2
Wonder marvellously -- Be astonished and astounded.
R622:2
Work a work -- The harvest work, and a change in
dispensation. R1487:3
Referred to by Paul (Acts 13:40, 41) as applicable to the
Jewish Harvest, which is typical of the Gospel age Harvest.
R1487:3
First, gathering his saints and separating them as wheat from
tares; second, the binding of the tares; third, the heavens
rolling together as a scroll; fourth, the elements of earth
getting ready for the final conflagration. R1488:2
"His work, his strange work." (Isa. 28:21) R1487:3
Fulfill a work. R622:2
In preparation for Christ's glorious reign. R1487:6
Ye will not believe -- Conservative Pharisees of today
shake the cautious head, saying that we cannot be on the eve
of a new dispensation, for " lo, all things continue as they
Though it be told you -- If you did not see some evidences
you would consider the things impossibilities. R622:2
Habakkuk 1:6
The Chaldeans -- Communists, Socialists, Nihilists, etc.

R622:2
Babylon was the capital of Chaldea, so symbolic Babylon
reigns over the civilized world, and the masses are fitly
termed the Chaldeans. R622:2
Nation -- People. R622:2
Habakkuk 1:7
Their dignity -- Their burden, or restraint. R622:2

Proceed of themselves -- From them shall proceed the
judgment. R622:3
Habakkuk 1:8
Their horses -- Doctrines. R622:3

Are swifter -- Indicating their rapid spread. R622:3
More fierce -- Showing the ferocity of the doctrines.
R622:3
Their horsemen -- Teachers of these doctrines, the
leaders. R622:3
Shall come from far -- Will be foreigners. R622:3
Habakkuk 1:9
All for violence -- Their mission is violence. R622:3

As the east wind -- Be set in opposition to the east--the
direction of the sunrising, representing the dawn of the
Millennial day. R622:3
The captivity -- The bounden ones. R622:3
These shall cause a measure of judgment to come upon the
evil institutions, yet they will be in opposition to the true
light. R622:3
Habakkuk 1:10
Heap dust -- Cast up earth mounds. R622:3
Habakkuk 1:11
Then -- By reason of their successes. R622:3

His mind change -- Not realizing that they have been used
to overthrow oppression. R622:3
He shall pass over -- Become surpassingly proud. R622:3

Unto his god -- Boasting themselves of the victory of
Liberalism. R622:3
Not realizing that they have been used as the Lord's great
army to overthrow oppression and bring down the proud.
R622:3
Habakkuk 1:12
Art thou not -- The prophet represents the true saints as

addressing Jehovah. R622:4
O mighty God -- O Protector. R622:4
For correction -- Thou hast appointed them to correct
nations. This is the confidence of the saints. R622:4
Habakkuk 1:13
Of purer eyes -- Nothing short of perfection can find favor

in God's eyes. R1610:2
Than to behold evil -- With approval. R5901:6*,
R1351:5*
God detects the smallest deflection in our hearts, and his
character is so holy that he cannot but hate it. R5902:1*
We must be purified from all iniquity before we can have the
approval of God. R5901:6*
Hence ultimately all who are in any way imperfect will be
destroyed. R1610:2
He will not permit evil to all eternity, for this condition would
not be pleasing to him. R5211:4
Canst not look on -- Recognize with any degree of
allowance; countenance. F120; R870:3, R386:6, R5901:6*
Denoting his abhorrence. R1351:5*, R5901:6*
According to the principles of divine government and law, he
has no degree of allowance; he cannot condone sin nor admit
its necessity in any degree. E418
This does not signify a perfection in the flesh, but a perfection
of heart, of intention, of will, of endeavor. R5902:1
In eastern countries long ago, to show the face was a mark of
favor; to turn the back, a mark of disfavor. B188
To have pardoned Adam, God would have made himself a
liar. The absolute unchangeableness of God is the firm
foundation upon which all his loving promises rest. R386:6
Since the ransom has been laid down, Jehovah, in due time,
will no more disregard and treat men as sinners, turning his
back upon them, but will send refreshment from his face, his
favor, through Jesus, his agent in the restitution of all things.
(Acts 3:19-21) B188
Iniquity -- Thus the destruction of the wicked in the
Second Death is the essence of wisdom. Ultimately all evil
shall be destroyed. R5211:4
Habakkuk 2
Habakkuk 2:1
Set me upon -- Fix my foot upon. (Douay Version)

R621:1
Will watch -- Studying his Word. R1475:5
To see -- Not to guess at it, or to surmise about it, but to
see it, so plainly that he can clearly, logically, and
Scripturally demonstrate it to others. R1475:5
What he will say -- We can know only what God has
revealed in the Bible as his revelation. R769:1
Let us balance our judgments by the testimony of God's
Word. R770:6
What I shall answer -- To the unbeliever. R621:1
When I am reproved -- When the unbeliever reproves me.
R621:1
Habakkuk 2:2
Answered -- Gave me an answer for the unbeliever.

R621:1
Me -- The faithful watcher. R1475:5
Write the vision -- God's plan of the ages, the vision seen
by Habakkuk. R5374:1
What you have seen of divine truth. R1475:5
Concerning the glorious consummation of God's plan. B15
This command has been obeyed--by charts, diagrams,
concordances and explanations. R621:1
Make it plain -- Set it out in an orderly, systematic
manner. R1475:5
Some are called to make the truth plain for the benefit of all
the rest. R1475:5
It becomes the privilege of the faithful watcher to make plain
to others what the Lord has made plain to him. R1475:5
Do not attempt to make it plain to others until you understand
it yourself. R1475:5
Upon tables -- Charts. C89
That he may run -- For the prize. R1475:5
Run over it; be able to prove to himself its correctness.
R621:1
That readeth it -- Read it readily. C89
Read it clearly. B15
That everyone may read it fluently. (Leeser) R5374:1
Habakkuk 2:3
The vision -- God's plan of the ages. R5374:1

The testimony of the Scripture. R621:4
A great revelation--a picture of God's plan through the
prophets and the Law. Q729:5; R5731:5
For an appointed time -- Is to be made clear at the
appointed time. R5374:3
Time features are not as definitely stated in the Scriptures as
are doctrinal features. R5374:3
Much of which was previously purposely hidden and
obscurely expressed. R1475:5
It shall speak -- Appear at the end. (Douay) R621:1
It will make itself heard and will not lie. R5374:2
Though it tarry -- Its fulfilment would seem to tarry.
R5731:6, R5374:1
If it appear to make any delay. R621:1
"Where is the promise of his coming (presence)? for since the
fathers fell asleep all things continue as they were from the
beginning." (2Pet. 3:4) R621:1
Wait for it -- If, in the Lord's providence, the time should
come 25 years later, then that would be our will. R5374:3
The year 1915 is now more than half gone, and I think it is
very doubtful whether we shall see all we had expected in this
year. It looks as though we were trying to hasten the
fulfilment of the vision. Q730:1
In their haste, some supposed that all things concerning the
Day of the Lord were to transpire immediately, but instead
the trouble comes like spasms. R621:2
Let none of the consecrated be in haste to rush into print with
crude, undefined ideas, and thus become stumbling blocks in
the way of many others. R1475:6
"Oh, the blessedness of him that waiteth unto the 1335 days."
(Dan. 12:12) C89
It will surely come -- All the blessed things are positively
certain to come. Q730:2
It will not tarry -- It does not really tarry. It is a matter of
God's time and our understanding of it. R5731:6; Q730:2
Its seeming tarrying was not so, but a partial mistake on the
part of William Miller, foreknown and permitted by the Lord
for the testing of his "holy people." C89
Habakkuk 2:4
Behold, his soul -- The understanding, or mind, of the

unbeliever. R621:1
Is not upright in him -- He is not right at heart. R621:1
By his faith -- In his faith--not slow to believe all that God
hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets. R621:1
Habakkuk 2:5
Yea also -- Another version of the first 16 words: "As wine

deceiveth him that drinketh it, so shall the proud man be
deceived and he shall not be honored." The time has come
when those who have no limit to their greed are not honored,
but the reverse. R621:3
Because he -- The Papacy, or a modern ambitious nation.
E374
His desire as hell -- His ambitions as sheol, oblivion, the
grave, never full. E374; R2599:6
Cannot be satisfied -- Their covetousness is like death in
that it never has enough; its capacity cannot be satisfied.
E375
Habakkuk 2:6
A parable against him -- Questioning not only the rights

of kings, but how and why one man is supposed to be born
with the right to command and rule another; why millionaires
roll in wealth while others, their intellectual, moral and
physical equals, barely have life's necessities. R621:3
A taunting proverb -- A dark speech. R621:4
Woe to him -- "Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl
for your miseries which shall come upon you." (Jas. 5:1)
R621:4
That which is not his -- Since money is the equivalent of
service, and the wealthy have never rendered extraordinary
service, the conclusion is that they accumulated their wealth
dishonestly, without giving an equivalent service to the world
for it. R621:3
Habakkuk 2:7
Vex thee -- Tear thee. R621:4

For booties -- For a spoil. R621:4
Habakkuk 2:14
For the earth -- During the Millennial age. B99;

R1015:4; OV192:3
After the gathering of the elect. R4557:3
Shall be filled -- The curse shall be rolled away, and all
darkness shall be dissipated by light and blessing. R5338:2;
OV384:1
The wonderful inventions of our day, the printing press and
the mail, are potent factors in knowledge filling the earth.
R5363:6, R1155:3
But this knowledge is coming to a people who at heart are
unprepared for it. The hands of the ignorant and unlearned
are stretched forth to grasp the throttle of power--political,
social, religious and financial. R5363:6
Showing that great enlightening and educational influences
will be set to work. R1248:2
Breaking the shackles of ignorance and superstition.
OV384:1
As with the Gospel Church, a gradual matter--line upon line,
precept upon precept. F709
It will be in and through the glorified salt of the earth that the
blessing will come, the streams of truth for human
refreshment, for a thousand years. R5780:2, R4990:3,
R4957:1, R1043:2*; OV192:3
Accomplished by the Kingdom of Light, operating through
earthly agencies, in harmony with its principles of
righteousness and truth. OV45:2
"As truly as I live, the whole earth shall be filled with the
glory of Jehovah." (Num. 14:21) D656
As a result, every knee shall bow and every tongue confess to
the glory of God. (Phil. 2:10, 11) SM130:2; R5427:3
"Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of
the deaf unstopped." (Isa. 35:6) OV382:T; HG651:5
Jesus has not yet been the Light of the World, but merely a
light to his people. R5352:5, R5338:5
All will then understand the promises now being grasped by
the "Little Flock." Then "the mystery" shall have ended. A86,
A87
With the knowledge -- Knowledge of the Lord will be the
drawing power in the Millennium, even as now. D195
The Millennial age will furnish full knowledge and full ability
to all. R892:4, R4158:6; HG417:4
All will know and appreciate the privileges then possible to
them. R5178:4; OV382:1
All the eyes of understanding will be opened. R5762:1
The Lord will turn unto his people the pure message, that they
may all call upon his name and serve him. (Zeph. 3:9)
R5823:3
Men will become not only perfect, having all that Adam had,
but will have additional knowledge and character. R4965:1
"And they shall teach no more every man his neighbor, and
every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for they shall
all know me." (Jer. 31:34) R6013:5, R1365:5
The clear knowledge of God's goodness. SM174:2
The Church of Christ gets this knowledge beforehand.
OV424:1
The gathering of the world will be the result of knowledge.
R5530:6
Some will resist this knowledge. After 100 years they will be
destroyed. R5530:6; SM16:1
The glory of the LORD -- God's law of love and life,
which men will fully know and keep. R1213:5*
No longer will the divine character be aspersed with
slanderous teachings, making him out viler than any of his
creatures. HG685:1
Our temporary blindness will but accentuate the glorious
brightness of God's wisdom, justice, love and power.
R5210:5; OV351:1; SM472:T
Cover the sea -- Ocean-deep. R5823:6
Habakkuk 2:15
His neighbour drink -- The condemnation would apply

equally to those who tempt others to the use of intoxicating
drinks and to those who endeavor to lead others to imbibe of
the intoxicating wine of the spirit of the world. R1444:5
Habakkuk 3
Habakkuk 3:1
A prayer -- Habakkuk's entire prayer, recorded in this

chapter of his prophecy, is symbolical. R5383:1
Rehearsing the trouble coming upon the world during the Day
of the Lord from the Lord's standpoint, showing whose power
really shakes the kingdoms and brings in everlasting
Habakkuk 3:2
Thy speech -- Thy fame. R622:5

Midst of the years -- Of the time of trouble. R622:5
Habakkuk 3:3
From Teman -- Using the marvellous display of God's

power in Israel's deliverance from Egypt as an illustration of
the world's deliverance at the establishment of the Kingdom.
R622:4
Habakkuk 3:4
His brightness -- His Kingdom. R622:5

Light -- Sunlight. R622:5
He had horns -- Rays of light and blessing. R622:5
Out of his hand -- Out of his every act. R622:5
The hiding -- The secret; God's goodness is for a time kept
secret, not recognized by men. R622:5
Habakkuk 3:5
Went the pestilence -- Moral pestilence shall flee as

darkness before the rising sun. R622:5
Coals went forth -- Dross and stubble shall be consumed
as righteousness steps in. R622:5
Habakkuk 3:6
Measured -- Judged. R622:5

Drove asunder -- Melted. R622:5
Everlasting mountains -- Ancient governments. R622:5;
A318
Scattered -- Crushed to pieces. R622:5
Perpetual hills -- Less autocratic governments. D551
Did bow -- Sunk. R622:5
Habakkuk 3:7
Tents of Cushan -- The dwellings of darkness, of iniquity.

R622:5
And the curtains -- Those who caused the darkness.
R622:5
Land of Midian -- Strife. R622:5
Habakkuk 3:9
Oaths of the tribes -- Like severe rods of punishment

goeth forth thy sword. R622:6
Cleave -- Open. R622:6
Rivers -- Truth channels. R622:6
Habakkuk 3:10
The mountains -- Kingdoms. R1813:4

Of the water -- The water of Present Truth. "The waters
shall overflow the hiding place." (Isa. 28:17) R1813:4
Deep uttered his voice -- "The sea and the waves roaring."
(Luke 21:25) R1813:4
Habakkuk 3:11
The sun and moon -- The Law and the Gospel. D590
Refers to a future event. R1813:3
Stood still -- Were darkened. "The sun shall be darkened
and the moon shall not give her light." (Matt. 24:29)
R1813:3
The miracle in Joshua's day was evidently typical of the
power to be displayed by our Lord in the time of trouble.
A61
See also comments on (Josh. 10:12, 13).
Habakkuk 3:12
Thou didst march -- Thou wilt tread the earth under foot
in thy wrath. R622:6
Thresh the heathen -- Astonish the nations. R622:6
Habakkuk 3:13
With thine anointed -- With thy Christ. R622:6

Woundedst the head -- Satan. R622:6
Discovering -- Destroying. R622:6
The foundation -- Thus a complete overthrow. R622:6
Unto the neck -- With its high-towering walls. R622:6
Habakkuk 3:14
With his staves -- With his own spears. R622:6

The head of his villages -- The chief of his warriors.
R622:6
Habakkuk 3:15
Through the sea -- The Lord's doctrines were enforced

and conquered the great multitude-the "raging waves of the
sea." (Jude 13) R622:6
With thine horses -- With thy doctrines, which will then
be enforced. R622:6
Habakkuk 3:16
My belly trembled -- My inmost parts trembled. R622:6

At the voice -- At the report. R622:6
That I might rest -- In the remembrance that the trouble
brings the chariots of salvation for the deliverance of the just.
R622:6
In this day only those can rest who are built upon the Rock
foundation and are faithfully living up to their covenant of
consecration. R622:6
Habakkuk 3:17
The fig tree -- But from God's standpoint, the fig tree
(Israel) will be budding. R5384:4
Fruit be in the vines -- The Church. The fruit of the vine
will feed the world in the coming age. "I am the Vine, ye are
the branches." (John 15:5) R5383:2
Olive shall fail -- The Church, the special people of God.
R5383:2
Seem to fail. R5383:2
The olive will give life to the world during the Messianic
reign. R5383:3
The fields -- "The field is the world." (Matt. 13:38)
R5383:3
Yield no meat -- The Babylonians, Medes and Persians,
Greeks, Romans, Papacy, and lately Socialism, have
successfully failed to better the world. R5383:3
The flock -- The Church, the Little Flock. R5383:2
Shall be cut off -- Our Lord Jesus was cut off from the
earthly fold when he died. So with us. R5384:1
No herd -- No perfect men, with the Church glorified and
the Ancient Worthies not yet here. R5383:4
Habakkuk 3:18
I will rejoice -- Those who will then understand--the Great

Company. R5383:4
By the fall of Babylon these will be set free. Before all this is
made plain to them they may use the language of our text.
R5383:2
All things had seemed to them to be failures, and now they
see that God's plan has not failed, but has been fulfilled.
R5383:2
"Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to him for the
marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself
ready." (Rev. 19:7) R5383:2
Zephaniah
Zephaniah 1
Zephaniah 1:3
Fowls of the heaven -- The most execrable, the vultures of

society. C162, C187; R817:3
Satan and his agents. R2634:6, R5406:5
Fishes of the sea -- Men not under religious restraint.
R333:1
Men of the world, of every kind. C214
See also Rev. 19:17, 18; Rev. 18:18:4, 2.
Zephaniah 1:7
A sacrifice -- A slaughter in the time of trouble. A315

Hath bid his guests -- "Come and gather yourselves to
ether unto the supper of the great God." (Rev. 19:17) A315
Zephaniah 1:8
The LORD'S sacrifice -- The Lord's slaughter. A315

With strange apparel -- With imported clothing. A315
Zephaniah 1:9
Also will I punish -- Not only a great overthrow of wealth

and power, but also a punishment of those used as the
instruments of destruction, for their equally unrighteous
course. A315
On the threshold -- Over the threshold, as marauders.
A315
Zephaniah 1:14
Day of the LORD -- The forepart of the Millennium.

B33, B40
That period of time in which God's Kingdom, under Christ, is
to be gradually "set up" in the earth, while the kingdoms of
this world are passing away and Satan's power and influence
over men are being bound. A307
It is called the "Day of Jehovah" because, though Christ, with
royal title and power, will be present as Jehovah's
representative, it is more as the General of Jehovah than as
the Prince of Peace. A307
Though addressed to Israel and Jerusalem more or less
directly, the connections show that all mankind is included in
the complete fulfilment. A315
Is near -- It has, indeed, begun, and the heat of human
passion is growing more and more intense daily. The great
time of trouble is very near. R3215:6
Hasteth greatly -- Matters culminate quickly in the Day of
Jehovah. B99
Even the voice -- Even the uproar. A316
The sound. R2216:1
The cries of the oppressed and discontented. R2216:1
Sounding into the ears of the civilized world through the daily
press. R2216:3
Coming from various quarters and swelling into the mighty
roar of the sea class (Luke 21:25)--a voice that will not be
heard. R2216:6
The mighty man -- The rich and those who employ labor--
this is their day of trouble in an especial degree. R1676:5
Rich men, chief captains or kings, and the mighty men of the
nominal churches who have deceived themselves. R683:6
Cry there bitterly -- Shriek bitterly. A316
Because their delusions will all be swept away. R683:6
"Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for the miseries
which shall corn upon you." (Jas. 5:1-4) R3107:6, R668:5
Zephaniah 1:15
That day -- The Day of Vengeance, the time of trouble.

D655
Day of wrath -- A term applied to a period of 40 years in
the close of the Jewish age, and to a similar period of trouble
in the end of the Gospel age. A139
So extreme is the trouble that the world is said to be burned
up by the Lord's anger. R26:2, R268:6, R592:3, R409:5
When the world will have an illustration of its own
money-mad condition. R4522:2
"For all the earth shall be devoured with the fire of my
jealousy." (Zeph. 3:8) R3935:2, R4627:3, R5364:1,
R5863:6
Yet the mind that grasps only the idea of anger, or supposes
divine malice, seriously errs. A308
Trouble and distress -- Distress and anxiety. A316
Upon the world and nominal church, though its earliest
dawning light will be full of comfort and cheer to the saints
who see, beyond the trouble, the glorious reign and blessings
promised. B40
What wonder that a revolution of such proportions, and
necessitating such great changes, should cause trouble. A307
We expect that this distress and trouble will come about, in a
natural way, by a rising of the people goaded to desperation.
R26:2, R409:5, R592:5
A day of darkness -- In that day of horror and darkness,
men shall come to learn their need of a strong arm to deliver
them. Their pride and self-sufficiency will be humbled in the
dust. R5537:6
Not the same day as that mentioned in Zech. 14:2,6, when
"the light shall not be bright, nor the darkness thick." D655
And gloominess -- Obscurity, uncertainty and foreboding,
as well as present distress. A316
A day of clouds -- A day of trouble. R153:2, R264:5;
A316
Symbolizing the gathering of the trouble epoch. Storm
clouds, giving evidence that the vitiated and corrupt "air" is to
be changed; and we rejoice that it will be pure after the storm.
R264:5, R256:1, R153:2
Thick darkness -- Tempestuous gloom. A316
Zephaniah 1:16
Of the trumpet -- The seventh symbolic trumpet which

sounds throughout this day of trouble--also called the Trump
of God, because connected with the events of this Day of the
Lord. A316
And alarm -- Clamorous and conflicting denunciations.
A316
The high towers -- The strong and well-entrenched
governments. A316; R5537:5
Zephaniah 1:17
Walk like blind men -- Groping in uncertainty, not

knowing what course to pursue. A316
Zephaniah 1:18
Neither their silver -- Neither "Free Silver" nor

Protective Tariff, therefore, can claim to be remedies for
present and impending evils, but merely palliatives. D473
Nor their gold -- Nor bank notes, nor bonds. F554; D329
"They shall cast their silver in the streets, and their gold shall
be removed." (Ezek. 7:19) F554
To deliver them -- In 1898 a miller in Italy Publicly
thanked the virgin for dear bread, and then threw his money
in the street in a vain attempt to pacify the mob that came to
take his life. R2384:2
"Thou fool! this night thy soul shall be required of thee.
Then whose shall those things be which thou hast provided?"
(Luke 12:15-20) D273
In the day -- The Day of Vengeance. D329, D385, D473
Of the LORD'S wrath -- Though previously wealth could
furnish ease and every luxury. A316
The whole land -- The social fabric. R5364:1
Shall be devoured -- Not people; the destruction is that of
government life. R26:2
Fire of his jealousy -- Fire of his zeal, not literal fire.
A317, R5442:4
Symbolic of the great social, financial and religious trouble
which will overwhelm "the present evil world" and usher in
the Millennium. R3074:6, R1615:5, R5733:4
Burning and destroying everything antagonistic to his
righteousness. R5532:4, R4628:1
To try every man's work; when those who daub together
wood, hay and stubble shall suffer loss, and yet "be saved, so
as by fire." (1 Cor. 3:11-15) R505:5*, R5916:1, R4628:1
Permitted by God to turn the hearts of men to himself.
R350:3*
Anarchy, the destruction which will sweep the whole world
and usher in Messiah's Kingdom. R5364:1
Not merely of destruction, but also of purification. R5442:4
Must burn fiercely to consume the giant evils so entrenched in
the world. R5442:4
Of all them -- Of all the wealthy, in the sense that wealth
will cease to be wealth. A316
Zephaniah 2
Zephaniah 2:1
O nation -- The Royal Priesthood, the Holy Nation.

R996:4
Not desired -- Despised by the world because of your
faithfulness to God and the truth. R996:4
Zephaniah 2:2
Bring forth -- Before the decree brings forth its results.

R996:4
Before the day -- The day of trouble. A334
Pass as the chaff -- As fire consuming chaff; quickly in
comparison with the slow operation of past ages. A334;
R996:4
Come upon you -- There is no hope held out that this
trouble can be averted. D540
Zephaniah 2:3
Seek ye the LORD -- Exhorting the better elements of the

world, not the Church, which is accounted worthy to escape
those things coming upon the world. D68, R4997:4,
R2021:1, R5041:6
Let him present himself wholly to God that he may know and
do God's will, and thus prepare himself for the ushering in of
the Kingdom. HG516:4
All ye -- A class of the world not spirit-begotten. Q719:1;
R5041:6, R1607:5
Meek of the earth -- The humble of the world in general.
A334; D68; F555
As well as the Body of Christ. A334
This class should include all mature children of the
consecrated ones who have been rightly taught in the precepts
of the Lord. F555
Few are in the attitude of mind to hear this message. OV86:4
No doubt the trouble will be equally upon the poor; but to
them it will seem less severe since they have been accustomed
to less. SM191:2
"Therefore the inhabitants of the earth are burned, and few
men left." (Isa. 24:6) R5041:6
Wrought his judgment -- His will. A334
Who love justice and pursue peace. A334; D540
Seek righteousness -- Justice. PD92/107
The right, the truth. R996:4
Practice righteousness, truth, godliness, kindness,
benevolence, justice; trust in the Lord; seek to walk in his
ways. R2564:5
The wise policy, to say nothing of principle, is to deal justly,
generously and kindly with our fellow-men in every rank and
condition of life. D67
The Lord will be pleased to select from among such penitent
seekers of righteousness some as substitutes to complete his
elect Church. R2564:5
Such will be the ones most ready to welcome our King and
his Kingdom. R2564:5
Instead of seeking a non-existent place of safety, let us bring
our selves in to a condition of safety. R2021:1; F554
Seek meekness -- For those who are not seeking after
righteousness and meekness, it will be better for them to go
through the trouble in order to prepare them for the great
blessing to come later. R5864:2
Seek the right and seek it meekly--the time is short. R996:5
The more meek and righteous men may be, the better they
will be prepared for the awful shock and terrible distress of
that day of trouble. R4997:5
During the time of trouble, for the first time in the world's
history there will be a premium on meekness, patience, love,
gentleness, goodness. R1963:6
Rely on the Lord and not on carnal weapons. SM191:2
It may be -- As a consequence of seeking righteousness
and meekness. R1607:5
Ye shall be hid -- Partly hid. A334
Protected from at least some measure of trouble. R2021:1,
R5864:2, R1607:5
In the French Revolution, which was a type of the Day of
Vengeance, favors were shown to the just, generous and kind,
and extreme wrath was visited upon oppressors. D67, D68
Not the Great Company--for they shall suffer the destruction
of the flesh in this time of trouble. R5041:6, R1963:6
As the three Hebrews were preserved in the fiery furnace.
R5041:6
Their manner of life, habits of thought and action, sympathies
for the right, and appreciation of the Bible account of the
trouble and its outcome, will all conspire to make them suffer
less than others. A334
Words of wisdom to the world in general. The Little Flock is
promised that they shall escape all those things coming upon
the world. (Luke 21:36) D68
Day of the LORD'S anger -- The anarchy of the French
Revolution and the anarchy which overthrew the Jewish
nation in AD70 are Scriptural illustrations of what may be
expected soon. PD92/107
Against that evil day, we warn men that they repent and
develop meekness and righteousness. R4433:1
Zephaniah 2:15
The rejoicing city -- Babylon, Christendom. D527
Zephaniah 3
Zephaniah 3:1
The oppressing city -- Babylon, Christendom. D527
Zephaniah 3:8
Wait ye upon me -- We are to wait on him in all things

and not take matters into our own hands. OV287:3;
R5112:6; CR168:6
Have full confidence in God that his methods are best in
every way. OV62:1; R5203:3
The Lord's times and seasons are best for us, and any attempt
on our part to push ourselves in advance of the Lord's will
would be sure to react unfavorably. R5672:3
Now is the time for patience and for remembering that
Socialism cannot do for the world what it desires and teaches.
R4135:1
"Be patient, therefore, brethren." (Jas. 5:7) SM191:2;
R1520:1
Jehovah says to the Church: "I shall attend to this matter
myself." R4990:2
Wait for his time. God has a plan that is surely working itself
out. R4135:1
God's people must not interfere with the powers that be.
SM191:2; R5526:5
God's people are forewarned not to use carnal weapons and
not to trust in such weapons in the hands of others. The trust
of God's people is to be in God. R5733:4, R5526:5
It is not the duty of every one of the Lord's people today to
become public reprovers of public officials, even though they
may see unrighteousness practiced. R3424:5
Do not avenge yourselves on those who legally oppress you,
but wait for justice. R1607:4
We are not to demand justice, but to be sympathetic and
forbearing. R1607:4, R4899:3
We should neither advocate the coming revolution, nor take
part in it. R1607:4
Let us seek to subdue and calm the passions of men in the
coming strife and do nothing to augment them, pointing out
that the worst government is better than no government, and
that we have, in fact, the best of all earthly governments.
OV287:2
Do not attempt to force husbands, wives, parents and children
up to the line of perfect justice toward you. R4899:3
As young David was content to wait God's time for bringing
him to the throne; and not as Jeroboam, possessed of more
confidence in himself than trust in God. R4723:3
Until the day -- The time of trouble. R4627:3
The Day of Wrath. HG417:6
Not a 24-hour day. R2971:3; A334, A138
That I rise up -- "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, saith
the Lord." (Rom. 12:19) R5574:2
To the prey -- All opposers of his righteous course.
R1913:2
My determination -- His plan declared. R794:4*
Gather the nations -- All the nations. R1785:5
By God permitting them to work out their own selfish
propensities. R5526:5; D271
The peoples of all nations, in opposition to present
governments. A317
Drawn together by rapid communication systems. R5526:5;
D270; HG417:6
Preparatory to the transfer of earth's dominion to "him whose
right it is"--Immanuel. (Ezek. 21:27) D271
The opposing hosts of the last final conflict are gathering at
the present time--forming one vast community of general
interests--commercially, financially and politically. Q769:3,
Q849:T
Since mankind are sinners by nature, their cooperation is most
likely to be along selfish lines, therefore most likely to be
evil. R5161:1
Selfishness has gathered the nations and has been preparing
them for the predicted, fast-approaching retribution. D271
Not only contributing to the severity of the judgment, but also
making it impossible for any to escape, thus making the great
tribulation short as well as decisive. D272
May assemble -- May draw together the kingdoms. A317
The world of mankind is being brought into close touch;
barriers of language are being broken down, etc. R5161:1
In the only manner in which they could be assembled, in
common interest and activity; but not in brotherly love. D271
The kingdoms -- Unite them for common safety, so that
the trouble will be upon all, and all will fall. A317
To pour upon them -- The kingdoms. A317
Mine Indignation -- The Lord's indignation will burn hotly
against all unrighteousness, all iniquity, all falsehood; that
these may be thoroughly removed. SM57:1
It is the "Battle of that Great Day of God Almighty." (Rev.
16:14) D528
All my fierce anger -- By permitting Satan and his legions
to have a great deal of power on earth. R2189:4
The natural result of sin. R350:3*
For all the earth -- The entire present social fabric. A317,
A318; B162; D13, D272; SM58:2; R5364:1, R5526:4,
R2543:6, R1607:5, R668:1; HG515:5
The world that now is. (2Pet. 3:7) D271
Including the nations beyond Christendom, for they are bound
together by commercial and other interests, and justly so; for
they have failed to appreciate what light they have seen. D27
A fire of anarchy will completely consume earthly
governments and Churchianity. R2565:4
Everything evil, both root and branch. (Mal. 4:1) R4628:4,
R2844:5, R2544:1
Shall be devoured -- As Israel was "burned to the lowest
hell." (Deut. 32:22) E357
All evil principles of government and society manifested and
destroyed as a necessary preparation for the coming blessing.
R188:5
All the giants of vice and selfishness. D370
The utter destruction of humanity is not meant. R5364:1
Consumed. The tares will cease to be tares; they will cease to
claim for their worldly systems the name "Christendom."
C148, C149
With the fire -- Wrath, indignation; the great trouble of the
Day of the Lord with which this age will end. B162; C148;
D269, D370, D528; R4628:1
Of truth. R794:4*
Knowledge is bringing on the restless social conditions.
R5526:5
the fire of God's righteous anger. R5863:6, R5532:4;
OV58:3, OV86:1, OV323:3
The Lord's anger will burn against all kinds of injustice and
iniquity. R4628:1, R2844:5
Which must consume all the giant evils so entrenched in the
world. R5442:4
Devouring the political, financial, social and religious
structure of the world. R5733:4, R3935:2, R2565:4,
R1644:5, R1615:5
The fire of God's zeal is a forcible symbol, representing the
intensity of the trouble and the destruction which will envelop
the whole earth. A317
Trouble, strife, confusion. R5526:5, R5364:1, R5161:5;
SM58:2
Fire represents the destruction of whatever is burned--tares,
dross, earth (social organization), or whatever it may be.
A318
Not merely to destroy, but especially to purify. R3684:4,
R5442:4
The same fire spoken of by Peter, through which the world is
to pass at this next great dispensational change. HGI8:5,
HG19:4
Anarchy. D271; HG398:6, HG417:6
Which will come about in a very natural manner. R26:2,
R2971:4
Into which the "tare" class of Christendom will be cast.
R2565:1, R2543:6
A necessary preparation for the glorious reign of
righteousness that shall immediately succeed it. R5989:2,
R1913:2, R188:5
This symbolic burning will be the new missionary method by
which the Church glorified, with her Head, will "bring in
everlasting righteousness." (Dan. 9:24) R2463:1
So great is the trouble here described that the world is said to
be burned up by the Lord's anger. R26:2, R268:6, R409:5,
R592:3
The same fire of the Lord's anger against every evil thing will
continue to burn throughout the entire Millennial age,
destroying some found unworthy of life eternal. R2544:1
Not literal fire, as proven by the next sentence, indicating
surviving people. R4627:3, R4990:2, R5733:4 R3935:2,
R5364:4, R2971:3, R2543:6, R1814:1; SM58:3; OV58:3;
Q777:1
See also comments on Zeph. 1:15, 18.
Of my jealousy -- Of my zeal. A317; C148; OV86:1
Or, anger, justice. R1814:1, R1785:5
Or, zeal for righteousness. R2971:4
Zephaniah 3:9
For then -- After this destruction of the kingdoms and the

present social order in the time of trouble. A317; D529;
R5733:4, R3414:5, R1607:5
When the harvest ends; when Jesus begins his reign as
Mediator of the New covenant, and Babylon is no longer.
R5827:2, R5823:3, R4627:6, R5920:4
After men shall have been humbled and made ready to hear
and heed his counsel. D519
As a consequence of the preceding terrible judgments upon
the nations. HG18:5
After the storm comes the sunshine. HGI9:5
Turn to the people -- The masses. SM145:1
Who are therefore not destroyed by the fire, and who are also
shown to be unconverted at the time it takes place. A317,
R4627:6, R5364:1
Not (as some hold) the saints, who, after the earth has melted
and cooled off, will return to earth and build houses and
inhabit them. A317
Implying a cessation of death, a stopping of the proceedings
against those waiting to go into this prison-house. Q216:4
A pure language -- The pure word of truth,
uncontaminated by human tradition. A317; SM145:1;
R2994:4, R5161:5, R5364:4, R5097:6
Instead of a confused message: the contradiction of creeds of
heathenism and Churchianity (Babylon). OV253:2; SM58:3,
SM145:1; R4627:6, R2994:4, R5364:4; F123, F710
A pure message. R4627:3, R5097:6, R5364:1, R5823:3;
OV324:T, SM58:3
Unmixed with falsity and error, as now. R996:5
The confusion of doctrines will all terminate with this present
age. R5161:5
Man's communications with each other will no longer be
selfish, but pure, truthful and loving. D272; R1520:4
The pure Gospel of the Love, Justice and Mercy of God.
OV86:1; CR408:5
A clear declaration of the divine will and plan of salvation.
R5442:4, R3684:4
A pure method. Q430:3
A language of sincerity. Love will then mean love. R1520:4
The Lord, now speaking in anger, will then speak words of
comfort and mercy to chastened hearts. R5823:3
It will be the work of the thousand years of Messiah's reign to
make known the pure message of God. R4390:3, R5733:4
A pure word of instruction, which they can understand.
R2994:4
The unadulterated truth. R1785:5; D529
One manner of communication. R794:4*
The "still, small voice" (1 Kings 19:12), or "voice of Eden,"
as Luther's translation puts it. R5753:2, R5752:3, R5733:4,
R3414:5; SM796:T
The "voice of Eden" will be heard bringing the message
which will be "the desire of all nations." (Hag. 2:7) R5753:2
As typified by Elisha's purifying the brackish waters at their
foundation by casting in a handful of salt. (2 Kings 2:19-22)
R5780:2
Call -- Recognize our Lord as the great teacher. SM59:T
To serve him -- Being prepared by having experienced the
misrule of the "Prince of this world." R268:6
Will this ever come? Yes!--the mouth of the Lord hath
spoken it. R5112:6
When the judgments of the Lord are abroad in the earth, the
inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness. (Isa. 26:9)
SM701:1
The scourging, the curse of Elijah (Mal. 4:5, 6), the symbolic
fire, will accomplish for mankind in a short time what the
message of Elijah failed to accomplish. OV324:T
With one consent -- Then " every knee shall bow and
every tongue confess." (Isa. 45:23) R5098:1
Zephaniah 3:11
My holy mountain -- Kingdom. A318
Zephaniah 3:13
Remnant of Israel -- Of both houses, natural and spiritual.

R518:5*
Zephaniah 3:18
The solemn assembly -- There are some who see many of

these things but follow afar off; but when the tribulation gets
heavy enough, they will be separated and gathered. R519:1*
Haggai
General
Haggai's prophecy dates from a period fifteen years after
the return of Israel from Babylonian captivity. The date of
Haggai's prophecy is given as the second year of the reign of
Darius, but this Darius was not the one who succeeded
Belshazzar, but Hystaspes, who succeeded Cambyses.
R2520:1-3 Haggai's prophecies were delivered to Israel about
the time of their return from the captivity, and therefore at the
time of the founding of the Temple. R3650:3
A message of reproof from the Lord to them, chiding them
for neglecting the important work of rebuilding the Temple
and giving themselves up to their own pursuits. When the
Lord thus stirred them up to a sense of duty and privilege in
the matter, the people and their leaders obeyed his voice and
again began to build. In all this what a vivid type we have of
the great reformation work which began in the sixteenth
century with the preaching of Luther and his contemporaries.
We call to mind that the one great work accomplished at that
time was the laying again of the foundation doctrine of
"justification by faith" in the one "continual" sacrifice of
Christ. Thus again Christ Jesus became the recognized
foundation of his Temple, which is the Church. R1484:3
Haggai 1
Haggai 1:1
Darius -- This Darius was not the one who succeeded

Belshazzar, but Hystaspes, who succeed Cambyses. R2520:3
Haggai 1:2
The time is not come -- Having been hindered by

opposition, Israel became indifferent and indisposed to
encounter the difficulties necessary to its further prosecution,
and thus became more and more engrossed in their own
affairs, leaving the Lord's house in ruins. R1484:2
Should be built -- Only the foundations were laid on the
return from Babylon. Building operations were not properly
begun until the second year of the reign of Darius Hystaspes,
king of Persia, and it was finished in the sixth year of his
reign. (Ezra 4:24; Ezra 6:15,) R3577:4*
Haggai 1:4
This house -- Its foundation, laid again in the Reformation,

was the foundation doctrine of "justification by faith" in the
one "continual" sacrifice O Christ. R1484:3
Lie waste -- Protestantism ceased to be a protest against

the iniquitous system that gave it birth, and for a time made
no further progress. R1484:3
Haggai 1:5
Consider your ways -- The law of God is a detector of

false ways; therefore, we should test all our ways by it.
R705:6*
Apparently, a considerable portion of the difficulty lay in a
lukewarmness toward religion. R2520:1
Many people justify an improper word or action by saying,,
"It is my way." The Lord says, "Amend your ways." (Jer.
7:3) R705:3*
Experience would lead us to question whether or not
prosperous ones were living as near to God as when they
were less prosperous. R2520:2
Haggai 1:6
Bring in little -- Because they had neglected to honor the

Lord with their substance. R2520:1
Haggai 1:9
Mine house -- The people had provided themselves with

comfortable houses, gardens, etc., while the Temple lay
desolate. R2520:1
Haggai 1:11
I called for a drought -- This was the Lords covenant with

Israel--temporal prosperities for faithfulness, temporal
adversities as punishment for religious neglect. (Deut. 28:1-42) R2520:2
With Christians, the reverse is frequently true--experience
leads us to question if the prosperous are living as near to
God as when they were less prosperous. R2520:2
Haggai 1:12
The people, obeyed -- Realizing that, in neglecting the

Lord's cause and merely caring for their own temporalities,
they had not only dishonored God but had also justly
hindered their own temporal prosperity. R2520:2
Haggai 1:13
I am with you -- Haggai came, not only a reprover of the

people's neglect, but also as an encourager to a reformation in
this matter. R2520:1
Haggai 1:14
The LORD stirred up A vivid type of the great

Reformation of the 16th century with the preaching of Luther
and his contemporaries. R1484:3
Did work -- Clearing away the rubbish of false doctrines
and establishing the faith of the Church in the truth. Since the
re-awakening, this work has been going forward. R1484:5
Haggai 1:15
The sixth month -- September, 521 B.C., 1845 years (the

length of the Jewish double) prior to 1324 A.D., the time of
the publication of Marsiglio's Defensor Pacis, the morning
star of the Reformation. R3577:4,5*
Prior to 536 BC and 1309 AD, fleshly and spiritual Israel
were completely in the power of Babylon; but these years
marked the turning point, and then, step by step, the great
reform went on. R3579:1*
Both Haggai and Ezra would reckon by the ecclesiastical
year, beginning in the spring. R3577:5*
Haggai 2
Haggai 2:1
Seventh month -- Haggai's prophecy dates from a period

of 15 years after the return of Israel from Babylonian
captivity. R2520:1
Haggai 2:2
Residue of the people -- Fifteen years earlier this

expression referred to foreigners residing in Palestine, but
now to returned exiles the people of the land--God's people in
the land of Promise. R2520:3
Haggai 2:4
Be strong -- When the Lord's people are weak in

confidence in themselves is the most hopeful time to cultivate
in themselves a spirit of reliance upon the Lord. R2520:4
And work -- To those who have no interest in the work,
the message respecting the Lord's presence will be
undesirable. R2520:4
Especially applicable to those who, having returned from
mystic Babylon, are seeking to build again the spiritual
Temple, the Church. R2520:4
For I am with you -- God's people do not always need a
berating. They need the wine and oil of consolation and
encouragement. R2520:4
The basis for Haggai's encouragement and exhortation to be
strong in the Lord and in the power of hi might. R2520:4
Haggai 2:5
According to the word -- Assuring them that his spirit,

promised in the covenant given coming out of Egypt, was still
in their midst to guide, overrule and bless. R2520:5
Fear ye not -- If God so loved us while we were yet
sinners, much more now that we are special objects of divine
care and grace. R2520:5
Haggai 2:6
Yet once -- Yet once more--presupposing a former

shaking, that typified in the giving of the Law at Sinai,
including subsequent shakings and siftings through captivities
and otherwise, that only the loyal and true might remain.
R3052:6,3
Signifying a finality--that there will never more be
requirement for shaking, for revolution, because with this
shaking will be ushered in the Kingdom of God. R2521:1
Shake the heavens -- Powers of spiritual control. A318;
R1484:6, R3052:6, R5516:6
Christians of all denominations will be shaken in faith and
shaken from their self-conceit, superstitions and bigotries.
R5516:6
Interpreted by St. Paul in Heb. 12:26-28. SM505:2
Many of God's professed people have been shaken loose from
faith in the Bible and in a personal God. R5516:6
Not the heavens of God's residence, but the ecclesiastical
heavens, the church institutions. R5161:4
Proceeding from the clergy and college-bred, through
professors and text books, to the high schools and, to some
extent, the grammar schools. R5517:1
It will be a short, sharp, decisive shaking--quickly
accomplished. SM505:3
And the earth -- Organized and law-abiding society.
A318; R1484:6, R3052:6, R5516:6
And the sea -- The lawless and anarchistic elements.
R3052:6, R1484:6; A318
And the dry land -- Aristocracy of wealth and social
independence. R3052:6, R1484:6
The more settled, law-abiding of mankind. R1484:6
Haggai 2:7
And I will shake -- In the time of trouble. D528,

CR114:1; SM505:1
Typified in the quaking of the earth at the giving of the Law
at Sinai. R3052:6
Transferring authority from Satan's kingdom to the Kingdom
of God. R34:1*
While Socialism has been shaking the political earth for the
past 30 years, other forces have been shaking, with great
severity, the ecclesiastical heavens. R5516:6
The present war (1914) will drain the world so that the
nations, sick, weak and faint, will fall a prey to Socialism
which will become anarchy. R5526:4
This war (1914) and the anarchy of Armageddon, which will
follow it, will prove conclusively the great need of divine
interposition in human affairs. SM409:T
As in the days of Eli's sons (1 Sam. 4:1-18), men couple the
cause of God with their national projects. The two are
entirely separate. God's cause will prosper best by a great
defeat to all the systems of men. R5626:4
All nations -- Not merely one nation. R3052:6
"There shall be a time of trouble such as was not since there
was a nation." (Dan. 12:1) R3053:1
Misinterpreted by fleshly Israel as intimating the fall of the
Persian kingdom and the subserviency of all other nations to
Israel. R3052:3
The desire of all nations -- The Kingdom of God, the
Fifth Universal Empire of earth, in power and great glory.
A266; D617; SM419:T, SM455:3, SM502:1; R5305:5
It is the Kingdom for which we pray, "Thy kingdom come;
thy will be done on earth as in heaven." (Matt. 6:10)
R5305:5
Blessings of life and health, peace and prosperity, happiness
and good government. R3053:4; R5516:5; Q205:T,
OV247:1; OV431:T
Jew, Mohammedan, Catholic, Free Mason, Protestant, all
desire one thing. CR113:3; SM501:3, SM499:3; R4715:3;
Q422:3, Q425.3
Messiah's Kingdom--a hope of joy and blessing for Israel and
all mankind. OV110:1; OV430:6; Dv; Cv; R5824:1,
R5950:4
So majestically grand, it leaves nothing to be desired further.
R5636:5, R4831:5
"The glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall
see it together." (Isa. 40:5) SM487:T
A good, strong government, with wise and just laws.
R4763:4, R2521:1; SM502:1; HG563:5
Although they do not realize how their desires are to be
accomplished by divine interposition. R5058:6
The Ancient Worthies desired a heavenly city or government;
and "He hath prepared for them a city." (Heb. 11:16)
R4387:6
True of whatever phase of the Kingdom in which our interest
centers, whether spiritual or earthly. A306
Messiah's reign of righteousness, truth, justice, mercy, love.
HG639:5
Christ's glorious reign, when fully inaugurated and
manifested. R1484:6
What the whole world is hoping and waiting for, though they
associate with the gracious hope and promises many
misconceptions and gross error. R3684:3
Only grander and more enduring than anything they ever
conceived of. D632; R1244:6
Sweeping moral reforms, great educational and philanthropic
enterprises, wonderful faith-cures, the awakening from death,
and a grand re-organization of society. R1095:4
Based on the only basis for human equality, the perfection of
the human soul. HG636:5
Picture before your mental vision the glory of the perfect
earth ..A92
When mankind has once tasted of the benefits of this
Kingdom, the great majority will never consent to another.
C63
The oppression of the present power will become so great that
the universal desire will be for a King to rule in righteousness.
R518:6*
Rejected by his own (Isa. 53:3), but yet to be revealed as the
"desire of all nations." R1063:2*
The consolation of all nations. R60:5*
Shall come -- Intervene in the midst of the trouble.
R5161:4
After Armageddon shall have humbled the world. R5626:4,
R5950:4, R5829:5, R5826:1, R5673:5, R5049:5, R3355:5;
OV110:1, OV221:5, OV430:6; SM735:T
After the stone strikes the image of Gentile supremacy,
leaving nothing of them. R5527:4
When humanity learns the futility of its own endeavors and
will cry unto the Lord for the desired peace. SM506:1;
R1693:4; B102; HG472:5, HG612:2
When the great King shall appear in his glory and establish
his Kingdom with Israel. R5031:2; Q422:3, Q426:1
As soon as the nations see its vast superiority to the old order.
R5574:5
When the Law shall go forth from Mt. Zion, the Celestial
Kingdom, and the Word of the Lord from Jerusalem, the
capital of the earthly Princes. (Mic. 4:2) OV320:4
After the Church is complete. OV157:3; R3053:5
When Christ is recognized in authority and power, and the
blessings of his Kingdom begin to be experienced. R1484:6
"Set up" in the midst of the confusion of anarchy and distress
upon all classes. A266
Being ushered in with a Jubilee trumpet. (Lev. 25:9) D617
And be recognized in the making of the storm a calm (Psa.
107:29) by the Kingdom of Messiah. R5239:6
And immediately the storm of human passion and anarchy
will cease. R5824:1
And I will fill -- The shaking is associated with the glory
of the Temple, because the time of the shaking will be the
very time when God's Kingdom, God's Church, shall be "set
up." R2521:1
This house -- The spiritual house, the Gospel Church.
R3052:6
With glory -- The glory of his presence, power,
righteousness and authority. R1484:6
With the glory of the divine nature. R3053:5
Saith the LORD -- This verse contains one of the richest
promises in the Word of God, the gospel in a nutshell, signed
by the Sovereign of the Universe. R3052:3
Haggai 2:8
The silver -- The truth. R2521:4

And the gold -- The divine character. R2521:4
Is mine -- There will be sufficient for the filling of the true
Temple, even though it may seem at times insufficient.
R2521:4
The Almighty is not poor, that he should need our gifts.
R5781:3
Yet, while being so rich, God deposits a little here and there
with us, giving us control over it; leaving his own work, in
which he is interested most, dependent on us that we might
have the privilege of being co-workers with God. R547:3,5
The Father is pleased to use human generosity and thus grant
a blessing to those who seek to render a service to his cause.
R3844:2
Surely we are not authorized to beg in the name of our rich
Heavenly Father. R4892:1, R547:3; Q129:2
Let us use carefully, frugally, wisely, liberally, what he has so
kindly sent; but let us not ask for more, even from him.
R4892:1
Haggai 2:9
The glory -- "The glory that shall be revealed in us."

(Rom. 8:18) R2520:6
"Glory, honor and immortality." (Rom. 2:7) R2520:6
This latter house -- "The Church, which is the Temple of
the living God." (2 Cor. 6:16) R2520:6
This could not have been the Temple of Zerubbabel, for that
Temple did not equal the former one. R1484:6
The former -- The former house was natural Israel,
represented in natural Jerusalem and its Temple. R2520:6
And in this place -- By means of this Temple. R1484:6
Will I give peace -- The peace, joy and blessing which the
world needs and craves cannot come until the elect Church
shall be given the Kingdom, when the Prince of Peace shall
reign. R2520:6
Haggai 2:13
Dead body -- Any living creature (soul) after death.

R2053:4
Haggai 2:22
And I -- The Lord, by means of the "Great Army" of

trained soldiers of Christendom in rebellion against the
powers that be. D544, D545
Will overthrow -- When the new Prince takes control, the
dominion is to be given into new hands. R26:1, R268:5,
R409:3, R592:3
Not immediately, but as the climax of a series of spasms of
trouble, like great waves following each other, as "travail
upon a woman." (1 Thes. 5:3; Psa. 48:6) R621:2
God does not interfere with the nations except as to shape
events toward the final end, and that shaping will require the
overthrow of all the thrones of earth and a great time of
unprecedented trouble. R1561:6
Sweeping away the delusions of earth's rich men, captains,
kings and mighty men of the nominal churches, and
establishing true rights and the liberty to do right. R683:6
The throne -- The kingdoms of this world are loyal to their
prince, the prince of darkness, working his will. R26:1,
R268:5, R409:3, R592:3
Will destroy -- The troubles of the Day of the Lord will
come like spasms, like great waves following each other, each
bringing nearer the grand climax. R621:2
Shall come down -- The delusions with which earth's rich
men, the kings, and the mighty men of the nominal churches
have deceived themselves in their own favor, will all be swept
away. R683:6
Haggai 2:23
As a signet -- To present anyone with the signet ring was

to invest him with all the power and authority of him who
owned it, a precious promise of joint-heirship with Christ.
R360:4*
The symbol of that which was most highly esteemed. (Cant.
8:5, 6) R360:4*
Zechariah
General
Zechariah the prophet was a priest as well, and was a
young man at the time of his return under the governor,
Zerubbabel, from the Babylonian captivity. As a prophet
he was the successor of Haggai, who was now old, and his
career as such began in the second year of Darius
Hystaspes, and continued about two years. It was part of
his mission to encourage Zerubbabel and all who labored
in the construction of the Temple, and who were beset by
innumerable oppositions, difficulties, etc. It is not until
we realize that the prophecies, although having some force
and application to the times in which they were written,
have a special force and application to us, as the
antitypical Israel, and to the building of the antitypical
Temple, that we get the true force, value and beauty of
these prophecies--a force and meaning that is entirely lost
to those who take the Higher Criticism view. R2521:2,3
Zechariah prophesied during the period of the
rebuilding of the Temple. The joy and zeal associated
with the founding of the Temple was followed by a period
of slackness, the result of the opposition of the Samaritan
neighbors, who employed their every art to discourage the
builders and to cause an interruption of the work. As a
result several years elapsed before the structure was
finally completed. Zechariah, a younger prophet (than
Haggai) was raised up by the Lord at this time, and other
messages were sent to the discouraged Israelites to show
them that they must not expect great national prosperity at
the time, but that nevertheless the Lord was with them,
and that going on faithfully in an apparently small,
insignificant matter, they would be accomplishing his
purposes. This corresponds to some degree with the
messages which have come to the Lord's people since the
time of Wycliffe, and which have led to the Reformation
movement in its various aspects, and incidentally to the
development and preparation of the various living stones
of the glorious Temple. R3650:2
Zechariah 1
Zechariah 1:1
Darius -- Darius Hystaspes. R2521:2

Zechariah -- Was a prophet and a priest; returned from
Babylonian captivity under governor Zerubbabel as a
young man. R2521:2
He was the successor of Haggai. His career began in the
second year of Darius Hystaspes and continued two years.
Part of his mission was to encourage the Jews who labored
in the construction of the Temple. R2521:2
Zechariah 1:5
Do they live forever? -- Are they immortal, as claimed

by many? R802:2*
Zechariah 1:9
The angel -- Materialized angels can eat, drink and

perform all the functions of the natural being of the earthly
plane of existence. Q744:3
Zechariah 1:15
The affliction -- Rendered "evil" in "I create evil."

(Isa. 45:7) A125
Zechariah 1:17
Choose Jerusalem -- Promises to the natural seed.

R11:5
Zechariah 2
Zechariah 2:7
O Zion -- The Kingdom of God, the Church. A297;

T33
Daughter of Babylon -- The nominal church. D38,
D39, D42, D43
Zechariah 2:8
He that toucheth you -- Those who afflict or injure the

spiritual seed injure the apple of the Lord's eye. R2847:3
Apple of his eye -- The true Church, an object of
special care. D29; OV380:3. OV423:3; R2847:3
Zechariah 3
Zechariah 3:1
He shewed me -- Evidently a vision; intended to

encourage Israel, but especially to be a prophecy.
R1490:2
Joshua -- Signifying "Savior" in Hebrew;
corresponding, in the Greek, to "Jesus." R2522:1
The entire "Church of the firstborn ones" (Heb. 12:23)
during the present life. R1490:3
Our Lord Jesus is represented by the head, and his
consecrated followers by the body. R1490:3
many. F609
To resist him -- Satan uses superhuman intelligence
and superhuman powers to inveigle our fallen flesh
through depraved appetites; and frequently uses the
worldly as unconscious instruments to oppose
righteousness and truth, and those who are of the truth.
F612
Zechariah 3:2
Satan -- The Head and Body are opposed by the same

Adversary. R1490:3
Chosen Jerusalem -- The Kingdom of God. A296
Zechariah 3:3
Now Joshua -- Whose head represented Christ Jesus,

and whose body represented the Church. R1490:3
Filthy garments -- Representing that all the church's
righteousness is as filthy rags. R1490:3
Zechariah 3:4
Change of raiment -- Picturing the covering of our sins

with the robe of Christ's righteousness. R1490:3
Zechariah 3:5
His head -- Our Lord Jesus. R1490:3
Zechariah 3:7
Walk in my ways -- Picturing the Church's high calling

to the divine nature. R1490:3
Zechariah 3:8
Hear now, O Joshua -- These words were addressed to

the literal Joshua, the Jewish High Priest. R1490:5
Men wondered at -- Literally, "Sign men," types.
R1490:5
My servant -- My real servant, thus typified. R1490:5
The BRANCH -- Or sprout, the man Christ Jesus.
R1490:5
Not of the old dying Adamic stock; but a new sprout,
having fresh vitality--holy, harmless and separate from
sinners. R1490:5
Understood, by his contemporaries, as applying to
Zerubbabel, not realizing that he and Joshua were but
types of Christ, in whom the offices of King and Priest
would be combined. R1491:4
Zechariah 3:9
The stone -- The chief Cornerstone, to represent this

coming one. R1490:5
Before Joshua -- The typical Joshua. R1490:5
Upon one stone -- Upon that one stone. R1490:5
Shall be -- Shall rest. R1490:5
Seven eyes -- Perfect, or divine wisdom. R1490:5,
R2822:4; B305; T47, T115
I will engrave -- God is superintending the engraving
of his character and law upon the living stones of the
Church, the Body of Christ. R1490:6
Remove the Iniquity -- The unfruitfulness, as well as
the sin. R1490:6
In one day -- The Millennial day, "One day with the
Lord is as a thousand years." (2 Pet. 3:8) R1490:6
Zechariah 3:10
In that day -- In the Millennial day. R1490:6
Zechariah 4
Zechariah 4:1
The angel -- The vision of this chapter was intended to

encourage the Israelites living at the time; but its chief
lesson belongs to us. R1490:6, R3650:5
Zechariah 4:2
A candlestick -- Literally, a lamp; corresponding to

that which, in the Tabernacle and Temple, shed the only
light of "the Holy." R1491:1, R2521:3
The complete Church of God. T115; R3651:1
Not representing the Church in glory. Then they will
constitute, with their Lord, the Sun of Righteousness.
R3650:6
Representing divine favor, enlightenment and blessing, as
connected with the promises made to Israel. R2521:5
Representing, to Israel, that they were to be the
light-bearers in the world at the time. R3650:3
All of gold -- The divine nature. T18
With a bowl -- A large central bowl, with seven
branches therefrom, each terminating in a lamp. R2521:3
Seven lamps -- Seven branches or burners. R1491:1
Here shown in united form, but in Revelation as separate
and distinct. (Rev. 1:12, 20; Rev 2:5; Rev 11:4)
R2521:6
The true saints, or light-bearers, in all the various phases
of the nominal church development. R1491:1
Thereon -- The seven lampstands, united in one,
represented the Church as a whole from first to last, its
every member complete--seven representing completeness.
R3650:6
Seven pipes -- This lamp differed from the one in the
Temple and Tabernacle in that it had pipes to supply the
oil. R3650:6
Zechariah 4:3
Two olive trees -- The Old and New Testaments, "the

two witnesses." (Rev. 11:3, 4) D652; R1491:1
Peaceable agencies, the Old and New Testaments.
R3651:1
The Old Testament with its prophecies, symbols,
instructions and types; the New Testament with its
explanations, assistances, encouragements, exhortations
and promises. R3651:6
From which the oil proceeds. Oil represents the holy
Spirit which illuminates the sanctified in Christ Jesus.
R1491:1
Fleshly Israel, as God's typical kingdom, and spiritual
Israel, as the real Kingdom of God, are the representatives
of the Old and New Testaments. D651, D652
Interpreted contemporaneously to represent the kingly and
priestly offices in Israel, filled by Zerubbabel, the
governor, and Joshua, the High Priest; but these were
typical of Christ. R2521:5, R2522:2
Indicating that the supply of oil for Israel's candlestick,
and the supply of Israel's light, was inexhaustible.
R2521:5
Zechariah 4:5
Knowest thou not -- The prophets did not understand

their own utterances at the time. R349:6*
Zechariah 4:6
Unto Zerubbabel -- Signifies, Born in Babylon.

R2522:1
Or, alienation from Babylon. R3651:1
Of the line of David, he represented the kingdom hopes of
the people. R3651:1
Type of the Lord Jesus. R3651:1
His name signifies "a shoot, or sprout, out of Babylon,"
typical of Christ, who was out of, yet separate from, sin
and all mixture of evil. R1491:2
The message given to him applies to Jesus and the
members of his Body, especially to those in a teaching
capacity. R3651:1
Not by might -- Through crusades. R3651:2
By greatness. An understanding of God's Word is not
enjoyed by all the educated an talented. R5982:4
Prosperity in the Lord's work cannot come by might, or
human power, or cunning. R5308:3
Not by an army. R1491:1
The influence and favor of the Persian monarch, to which
they were subject. R2521:6
The world's conversion comes not by might, nor by the
power of man. HG432:3
Nor by power -- Powerful organizations, combining
with earthly governments. R3651:2
Nor by force. R1491:1
By force, or compulsion. SM712:T
Their own numbers and ability, as laborers and defenders
of their cause against their nearby neighbors, the
Samaritans. R2521:6
But by my spirit -- The spirit of the truth, the spirit or
influence of God, given through his exceeding great and
precious promises. R1491:1
"He shall not fail nor be discouraged until he have set
judgment in the earth." (Isa. 42:4) R3651:2
No matter how great or able one may be, he is not fit to be
a leader unless he possesses a knowledge of the Lord's
Word, and the spirit of the truth. R5982:5
The Lord guided them by his spirit to accomplish his
purpose, even though it appeared to be an insignificant
matter. The preparation of the true Church during the
Gospel age is being accomplished similarly. R3650:3
Doing the transforming work--conforming the lines of
character likeness in harmony with those of the great
pattern which he has set for us. SM712:T
Only since the true Temple began to be built at Pentecost
with the anointing of the holy Spirit has it been possible to
enter into the real spirit, thought, intention of the divine
purpose. R3650:5
Zechariah 4:7
O great mountain -- The kingdom of the Evil One.

R2522:4, R1491:2
The mountain of difficulty which stood in the way of the
Lord's work. R2521:6
Before Zerubbabel -- Type of Christ. R1491:2
Become a plain -- For "the highway of holiness." (Isa.
35:8) R2522:4
To all co-laborers with the Lord, the assurance is that
however great and formidable, the apparent mountains of
difficulty shall disappear. R3651:3
Shall bring forth -- From the tomb, in the first
resurrection. R1982:4, R2522:4
The headstone -- Christ Jesus, the top Cornerstone of
God's building, the Stone which the builders rejected.
C329; R1982:6
The capstone of the spiritual pyramid--his Church.
R3650:2
The chief cornerstone in a pyramid is the top stone, which
is also the model after which the whole building is being
fashioned. C329, R3622:4, R1568:4
Calling to mind the Great Pyramid, whose top stone is the
chief cornerstone and whose internal structure corresponds
so perfectly with the Tabernacle and its symbolism.
R1982:1
Jesus, the cap, the climax of his great and wonderful
work, the New Creation in glory. R2522:4
With shootings -- Showing the holy joy which shall be
fully realized when all the living stones noiselessly come
together "without the sound of a hammer." (1 Kings 6:7)
R1982:4
Not only by men, but by angels also. R2522:2
Grace, grace unto it -- When the headstone shall
crown this glorious building of God, there shall be
shootings R1982:4, R3650:2
God's favor upon it! R3651:3
Zechariah 4:9
Laid the foundation -- Zerubbabel had begun the

rebuilding of the literal Temple. R1491:4
The application is to Christ, who began the construction of
the true Temple of God, "which Temple ye are" (1 Cor.
3:17), at Pentecost. R1491:4, R3651:4
His hands -- Zerubbabel's. R2522:1
Shall also finish it -- In due time our Lord Jesus will
complete the work, by his Spirit, through the word; even
though for a time the progress be slow. R3651:4,
R3650:2
He who began the good work in us is able and willing to
complete it. (Phil. 1:6) R3651:4
Zechariah 4:10
Despised the day -- The present day, when the

construction of the spiritual Temple is in progress.
R2522:1
The day of suffering, the day of trials. R1491:4
To the Jews, returned from Babylon to rebuild the
Temple, the materials available seemed poor and
insignificant; and so with us who now are free of Babylon.
R3651:4
So Christ's earthly ministry, and the work of his followers,
have all along seemed small and weak. R1491:4
Of small things -- The Dawns ("Studies in the
Scriptures"), Towers and Tracts. R2512:3
Corresponding. in some degree, with the messages of the
Lord's people since the time of Wycliffe, leading to the
Reformation movement in its various aspects. R3650:3
The humble beginning of the work of rebuilding the literal
Temple. R1491:3
Not many great, not many wise, not many learned, are to
be found amongst the living stones. (1 Cor. 1:26)
R3651:4
Those who promulgate the Harvest Message and who, in
the eyes of the world, are little, mean and insignificant.
R3651:5
Small beginnings, feeble efforts, discouraging conditions,
etc. R2522:1
They shall rejoice -- They rejoice to see the work
progress under his direction. R1491:4
See the plummet -- Recognize the hand of the Lord in
squaring, straightening, proving and testing the faith and
character of his people. R3651:5
All the elements of justice, truth, righteousness and love.
R3651:5
Let us not only conform to the plummet line, but build
one another up in the faith with love, kindness and
encouragement. R3651:5
With those seven -- Representing perfection. R3651:5
The seven eyes, the perfect wisdom of God which holds
survey of all the earth, superintending the work. R1491:4
Eyes of the LORD -- Watching the tears, joys, trials,
difficulties and prosperity of his people. R3651:5
The whole earth -- Complete, all-seeing, everywhere,
all-knowing. R3651:5
Zechariah 4:14
Two anointed ones -- The Old and New Testaments.

(See Rev. 11:3, 4) R244:4*
Zechariah 5
Zechariah 5:9
Between the earth -- Law-abiding society. R3052:6;

A318
And the heaven -- Powers of spiritual control.
R3052:6; A318
Zechariah 5:11
Build It an house -- Temple, Church organization.

R3052:6
Zechariah 6
Zechariah 6:2
Horses -- Symbol of doctrines. C316

Zechariah 6:12
Build the temple -- The true Church. T70
Zechariah 6:13
Shall be a priest -- Not a sacrificing priest, but a

blessing priest. SM139:3
Upon his throne -- A king and a priest at the same
time. SM136:1, SM139:3
A king in the sense of governor. A priest in the sense of
atoner, who, having redeemed, is the reconciler of the
people and the dispenser of divine favor. D637
A royal priest. R1063:2*
"A priest forever after the order of Melchizedek." (Psa.
110:4) T30; R531:1*
As such, Melchizedek's position in the type was higher
than that of Aaron. F72
The royalty of the Aaronic priest being proclaimed by the
golden crown in the garments of glory and beauty. T30
Zechariah 8
Zechariah 8:3
Dwell in the midst -- A promise to the natural seed of

Israel. R11:5
Zechariah 8:8
Dwell in the midst -- Chapter 8 teaches of Israel's

return and the building of Jerusalem. R107:6*
Zechariah 8:9
That the temple -- The antitypical Temple, the

Zechariah 8:10
Before these days -- During the time of trouble.D530

Connecting the trouble with the building of the great
spiritual Temple. R2760:6
Preceding the building of the true antitypical Temple, the
There was no hire -- Want of employment--the natural
outcome of growing want of confidence between man and
man. HG22:2; R2515:2
Nor...any peace -- But warfare between capital and
labor, emperors and peoples. CR44:5
But trouble, more general and greater than the world has
ever yet known. (Dan. 12:1) R1243:1
The affliction -- Oppression. (Leeser) R2021:1
For I set all men -- "For I will let loose all men,"
(Leeser) The trouble will be worldwide. There will be no
place of safety except under divine providence. R2021:1
Every one -- Every man for himself. R2460:6
Against -- In competition with. R2515:2
His neighbour -- In the country as well as in the city.
F555
As soon as the political and financial powers begin to
crumble, the warfare will become anarchy. SM454:2
Worldwide anarchy, accompanied eventually by all the
horrors of the French Revolution. R1912:2, R5526:3;
OV341:2
The climax toward which things are leading. R5790:6
Selfishness will be its basis. R4074:3, R4208:4,
R5526:3, R2760:5; SM266:1; OV146:2; D530
Brought about by the cloudburst of truth and the rising
waters of knowledge. R5604:5
Anger, hatred, malice of one nation against another will
extend to persons. R5569:2
We are to expect the same condition in the church.
R4208:4
Anarchy, the general uprising of the people, will bring on
the great time of trouble of the Scripture. R5526:3;
OV341:2
Brought on by the influence of Gospel enlightenment and
the spirit of liberty operating in an unregenerate and
selfish heart. OV146:2
In a time of anarchy brought on by the neglect of the
golden rule. R2313:6
As a consequence of the world losing confidence in itself.
SM734:2
The spirit of anarchy will spread from nations to
individuals. OV419:4
Demonstrating that earthly blessings are really injurious to
those out of tune with the Infinite One. HG639:4
For the government to advocate the taking of a side in the
present war (1914) would foster the spirit of anarchy.
R5569:2
Zechariah 8:12
Shall be prosperous -- Already we perceive that we are

in the gray dawn of that glorious day which God hath
appointed. R1248:3
Shall give her fruit -- Wholesome restraints, wise
rulings and righteous discipline, shall bring forth the
peaceable fruits of righteousness. R1248:3
And the ground -- The earth also shall be saved--
recovered from the divine sentence or "curse." R5078:4
Remnant of this people -- Then the Lord shall reign
over regathered Israel in Mt. Zion. R4796:4
Zechariah 8:19
And peace -- "God hath called us to peace." (1

Cor.7:15) R2946:3, R2947:1
Zechariah 8:22
In Jerusalem -- In that Millennial time. PT385:2*

Fleshly Israel will be recognized as the chief nation of the
earth. R83:2
To be the capital of the world under the Millennial
Kingdom arrangements. OV69:1; A296; CR157:2
Zechariah 8:23
In those days -- When the earthly phase of the

kingdom is established. A296; C293; D628
The days of the building of the Temple and the time of
trouble spoken of in verses 9 & 10. R107:6*
That ten men -- Representing all other nations of the
earth that will gather about Israel at that time. PT384:1*
Of the nations -- "All nations shall flow into it." (Isa.
2:2) A297; D628
Him that is a Jew -- "Salvation is of the Jews." (John
4:22) In the restitution work, fleshly Israel shall be used
as a medium through whom salvation from spiritual Israel
shall flow to all. C293
Fleshly Israel will, in the near future, be recognized as the
chief nation of earth. R83:2
We will go -- All nations, learning of the blessings of
restitution to be bestowed in Israel, will say, "Come, let
us go up." (Isa. 2:3) R4796:1; Q170:8
We have heard -- The world will notice the blessings
of health and prosperity bestowed upon Israel and wish to
obtain the same. Q171:T; R4555:3
God is with you -- Jewish restitution is the first item of
the many blessings to be poured upon mankind. OV66:2,
OV85:2; C287
They will say: "He has done for the Jew first; but he will
also do for us." R4840:5
Verses 20 to 23, together with Ezek. 37, help to prove
that the New covenant is with fleshly Israel only.
R4530:1*
Thus, from Israel, under the New covenant, through
Israel's Mediator, a way of approach to God will Be
opened up for all the Gentiles. OV96:3; R1341:2
Zechariah 9
Zechariah 9:9
Rejoice greatly -- Verses 9:9 to 10:4 were fulfilled at

our Lord's first advent. R2124:5
Great is the joy now among saints as they recognize the
King. R1795:5
Shout -- "If these should hold their peace, the stones
would immediately cry out." (Luke 19:40) B225;
R2746:1, R3538:4, R5090:6, R5362:4; PD65/77
"Hosanna!" (Matt. 21:9)--Salvation, Blessing. Praise!
R2746:1, R5090:3, R3538:5, R3850:6, R5495:1; B225
The word Hosanna is an acclaim of praise, confidence and
expectancy, closely resembling the thought of the word,
Hallelujah. R3538:2
Nationally, they did not receive him with shouts of
rejoicing. R599:4
After the shout of the multitude ceased, it was apparently
taken up by the children in the Temple without any
particular meaning. R3852:4, R3538:5
The people, recognizing the wonderful miracle wrought
upon Lazarus, congregated and hailed him as Messiah.
R2447:6
Their unstable and fickle minds, swayed by false teachers
and unwilling to act on their convictions in the face of
opposition, would, only a few days later, cry, Crucify
him! Crucify him! R1795:2, R1696:4
The saints' proclamation of Christ's presence and Kingdom
is the shout--heard, if not believed. R1795:5
Daughter of Jerusalem -- The Lord did not consider
the multitudes with him as, in any sense of the word,
representing the city and the nation. R2746:2, R599:4
Thy King cometh -- The day when Israel's double, or
Mishneh, turned. OV77.5, OV95:4; B226; R2296:6
On the tenth day (ninth day--OV78:1) of the first month,
when the chosen people of Israel were taking up their
lambs for the Passover. OV95:4,5; F461
Referring primarily to Christ's triumphal entry into
Jerusalem five days before his crucifixion. B224
This message has proved to be the test to both the fleshly
and the spiritual houses of Israel. C136; B241
The Lord's assumption of the office of King. R4122:3
The formal offer of the Kingdom by Jesus, which the
Jews, as a people, neglected to accept. R5494:3, R2296:3
Foreshadowing his coming glory and triumphal entry upon
the Kingdom at his return from the far country (heaven),
armed with a plenitude of power and authority. R2746:1
Prefiguring the coming of Christ as King in the end of the
Gospel age, in AD 1878. R1795:2, R1696:1
At his baptism John introduced him as the Bridegroom;
during his ministry he superintended a reaping work; at
the end of his visible ministry he rides in as a King.
R114:6*
Being rejected, as foretold, he consequently did not then
set up the Kingdom. R113:2
It was a grand or ludicrous triumphal entry into the city of
the great King--according to the standpoint from which it
was viewed. R2745:3
Unto thee -- Not to Herod's palace, to demand
possession of it; not to Pilate's palace, to demand
recognition of him; but to his Father's house or palace--to
the Temple. R2746:3
Just, and having salvation -- Righteous and victorious
is he. OV77:6
Lowly -- He was to be a King (Isa. 32:1), yet he
would be born in a manger (Luke 2:12) and come as one
of the humblest of earth. R1063:2*
Riding upon an ass -- This was fulfilled just five days
before his crucifixion. R4122:3, R3850:6
The Jews were familiar with this prophecy, and had long
been awaiting for Messiah to fulfill it. R3850:6
An ass was used rather than a horse. Tradition tells us
that so all the kings of Israel were accustomed to ride to
their coronation. R2745:3
The only occasion we have any knowledge of Jesus
riding--not for weariness, but after the manner of kings, to
ride in triumph on white asses. R3850:2; PD65/77
It was necessary that the Lord do literally what the
prophets foretold, that Israel be without excuse in their
rejection of him. R3850:6
Of an ass -- Of a she-ass. OV77:6
Zechariah 9:10
I will cut off -- Verse 10 notes the evil consequences to

follow their rejection of their King. B225
Be cut off -- Ultimately. OV77:6
He -- The "Prince of Peace." (Isa. 9:6) R1614:4
Shall speak peace -- All of this, except the riding into
Jerusalem, belongs to the restitution age. HG52:5
When the elect company is selected and exalted to power
with Christ their Head, then he shall make "wars to cease
unto the ends of the earth." (Psa. 46:9) R820:6
But not until he has first made known his presence in the
whirlwind of revolution and in the storm of trouble. D238
When mankind has been humbled and made teachable by
the leveling process of the great time of trouble. R1869:3,
R1614:4, R1484:6
Primarily to God's chosen people (Israel), and through
them to the Gentiles. OV97:1
By different methods than the Kiel canal celebration and
the World's Congress of Religions. D238; R2515:2
His voice commanding "Peace" will shake the earth
(social structure) and the heavens (ecclesiastical
structure). R2515:2
"Be still and know that I am God." (Psa. 46:10) R2515:3;
D637
Unto the heathen -- In respect to becoming part of the
spiritual seed of Abraham. OV97:1
To the ends of the earth -- Without an opponent.
R4974:4
Zechariah 9:11
Thy prisoners -- In death all are captives. A112

Out of the pit -- The grave, and hopeless depair. A112
Zechariah 9:12
Turn you -- The invitation of the Messiah, to the Jew

first. OV78:T
To the strong hold -- Christ was their stronghold, had
they but received him; but they rejected him, therefore the
denunciation. R599:5; B225; OV78:T
Prisoners -- Typically, Israel under the Roman yoke.
B225
Actually, Israel and all mankind under the control of sin
and death. B225; F353
Of hope -- So-called because Christ has the "Keys of
hell and of death." (Rev. 1:18) R2601:1; A99; HG384:2
Because of God's plan for their release. OV177:2,
OV224:3; SM30:1
Hoping for a coming king who would deliver and exalt
them to the promised dominion of earth. B225
Even to day -- To you Jews, because you are about to
reject the Messiah. B225; OV78:T
He points out the very day that the second part of the
double began. CRI04:5; R1379:1, R599:4; SM399:3
It was that very day he wept over the city, left their house
desolate, and the second half, which makes the double,
began. HG53:5
The standpoint of the future is taken, and the things
spoken of as accomplished facts. R1754:6
Render double -- Mishneh, a second portion, a
repetition; implying a casting off from all favor for as long
a period as they had enjoyed favor, namely 1845 years,
from AD 33 to 1878, when the Berlin Congress of
Nations was held, which greatly ameliorated the condition
of the Jews. B218
Twofold. OV78:T
A duplication of chastisement. B225
Where their double of waiting for the Kingdom expired,
the King did come, in AD 1878. R1202:4
"And first I will recompense their iniquity and their sin
double." (Jer. 16:18) "She hath received of the Lord's
hand double for all her sins." (Isa.40:2) B227; R1202:4
(Jeremiah 16:16) looked at the matter from the far past
and told what would come; (Zechariah 9:12) stood at the
turning point and told of its very day; (Isaiah 40:2) comes
down prophetically to the end of the double in AD 1878.
OV78:2; SM399:2,3, SM400:1
Literally, the other half. R599:5
Has been accomplished, accounting for the Zionist
movement. R5920:6
Zechariah 9:13
Judah...Ephraim -- Not mentioned as antagonistic or

rival kingdoms, but as unitedly sharing divine favors.
R2124:5
Zechariah 9:14
Blow the trumpet -- The seventh trumpet, the Trump

of God, the Last Trump, the Jubilee Trump. A316;
B148; R2025:3*, R2026:2
With whirlwinds -- The time of trouble. D528
Zechariah 10
Zechariah 10:1
Showers of rain -- Truth. B256
Zechariah 10:3
The shepherds -- Greedy, ignorant, lazy teachers.

F287
In the battle -- The time of trouble. D527
Zechariah 10:5
And they -- Verses 5 to 12 evidently apply to the

second advent. R2124:5
Zechariah 10:6
House of Joseph -- Not mentioned as antagonistic or a

rival kingdom to Judah or Ephraim, but as unitedly sharing
divine favor--of the same kind and at the same time.
R2124:5
Not cast them off -- The Lord assures Israel that the
coming favor will be to both, and to all the tribes.
R2124:5
Zechariah 10:7
They of Ephraim -- Christendom. D22
Zechariah 10:10
The land of Egypt -- The kingdom of darkness. F458
Zechariah 10:11
Through the sea -- The coming time of anarchy. D596

River shall dry up -- "The sixth angel poured out his
vial upon the great river Euphrates, and the water thereof
was dried up." (Rev. 16:12) R1371:6
And the sceptre -- Right to rule. B83
Zechariah 11
Zechariah 11:1
Open thy doors -- This entire chapter relates to, and

was fulfilled at, our Lord's first advent. R2124:5
Zechariah 11:3
Pride of Jordan -- Meaning "Judged down,"

"Condemned," typifying the curse, the sentence which has
rested for 6000 years against our race. R3086:4
Zechariah 11:6
His neighbour's hand -- See comments on (Zech.

8:10)
Zechariah 11:12
Thirty pieces of silver -- The market-price of a slave.

R2745:1
One of the many prophecies that show the Bible to be a
divine revelation. A58; R1205:2
One of several prophetic statements, fulfilled in Jesus,
that were so mixed up with other statements not specially
applicable to him, that the Jews might easily stumble over
them. R435:3, R436:2
Zechariah 11:17
Right eye -- Mind's eye, or right understanding.

R1434:2*
Zechariah 12
Zechariah 12:3
Together against it -- God declares that he will deliver

regathered Israel from their enemies. R26:5, R593:2
Zechariah 12:4
Smite every horse -- Old, false, doctrinal hobby. C316
Zechariah 12:7
The tents of Judah -- Israel, as a nation, will be the

first among the nations to come into harmony with the
new order of things. A294
The tribe of Judah, the principal tribe, in which was
vested the kingly office. B206
The pious of the ten tribes had allied themselves with
Judah, and were known as "Jews." R2084:6, R2380:2
To share in the covenant made with Abraham, any of the
ten tribes must become associated with the literal Judah at
Jerusalem. C294; R1341:2
First -- The restoration of the Jew to Canaan is a
beginning of restitution. R384:5
The Millennial favors will be to the Jews first. C256
See also comments on Zech. 8:23.
Zechariah 12:8
In that day -- Not now, but when the King shall reign
in righteousness. R4715:6, R5031:2; Q426:1
Shall the LORD defend -- He will reveal himself as
Israel's deliverer. R148:5
Shall be as David -- The Ancient Worthies, and
through them the nation of Israel, will become the
representatives of the heavenly Kingdom. R4320:5
Zechariah 12:9
In that day -- After spiritual Israel is complete.

R5832:4
In the great time of trouble near at hand, which will
include "Jacob's trouble" as well as "Babylon's fall."
R2420:5
To destroy -- Their deliverance will be so great that
they will recognize God's power and favor; and, through
nearness to God, in prayer and supplication, recognize that
they rejected and pierced their Redeemer. R286:3
Zechariah 12:10
And I will -- During the Millennial age. R2605:2

Illustrating God's and Jesus' love for their enemies--a
willingness to do for them whatever could be justly done;
bearing no enmity or grudge in return for their hatred.
F371
The restoration comes first. R102:1
Pour upon -- The same outpouring of the holy Spirit as
mentioned in Joel 2:28, 29. R2504:5, R376:5
One of the first things of the new order will be the pouring
upon Israel of their share of blessings, and their eyes will
be opened to recognize Him whom they rejected more
than 1800 years ago. Q94:1
Part of this work of grace is the giving them of the
message that the land is theirs that their period of
chastisement is at an end, and that shortly blessings will
come to them--not as Christians, but as Jews. R4735:6
Inhabitants -- Israel, at the time of their return to
prosperity; in the midst of their final struggle. OV81:3
Of Jerusalem -- Those who, from respect for the
promises, gather to Palestine. D627
Spirit of grace -- A new will, mind or disposition in
Prayer and supplication. R4735:6, R3982:4, R5719:6,
R4710:6, R5571:4
In and through Jacob's trouble. SM426:T
Their iniquity first being pardoned. R5571:4
Forgiving them and making the experience profitable to as
many as shall prove willing. OV194:4
The holy Spirit, the spirit of truth. When the truth shall be
made known, with that truth will go its spirit--its influence
and power to correct the heart and life, and bring it into
accord with God. R2504:6
Opening the eyes of their understanding. SM533:T;
R5571:4
The blessing of the Lord, coming upon Israel first, means
also the blessing of the whole world. R5599:1
Receiving them back to favor, under the terms of the New
covenant. R5442:6
Of supplications -- Israel's praying, supplicating, will
bring the blessings of the New covenant. R3970:3
Would that all Jews were in the attitude of prayer toward
God, looking for the fulfillment of all the prophecies.
CRI41:6
They -- Israel. R5234:3, R5578:1
Shall look upon me -- Jesus, who bears no enmity nor
grudge toward them, but is ready to pour out upon them
his Millennial blessings. F371
Aleph Tay, the first and last letters of the Hebrew
alphabet; "I am the first and the last." (Rev. 1:17)
R1948:4*
With the eye of faith (understanding). R5442:6, R5719:6,
R4710:6, R5571:4, R148:4, R5599:1, R3950:5;
HG390:2; D600
Israel's eyes will be the first eyes that will be opened.
R5269:5, R1693:4, R4544:4
Recognize; identify the Deliverer as the one they once
crucified. R148:4; D600; OV116:4
A few of the Jewish "common people" are already
"looking unto Jesus." R2831:6, R2605:4, R1043:1,
R748:4; HG387:4
Not now, but when the King shall reign in righteousness.
Q426:1, Q422:3; R4715:6, R3896:6
Inquiring, Is not this the Christ? R2605:4
Seeing out of obscurity. B72
When their eyes first begin to see out of obscurity, there
will not be anything that they can see with the natural
sight. R5269:5
Recognize him as the promised seed of Abraham and their
long-looked-for Messiah. R1747:2
Recognize him in consequence of a miraculous
deliverance when God manifests his power on their behalf
as in olden times. OV116:4
When they shall be saved, or recovered, from their
blindness. SM532:2; HG443:6; Q171:3
Possibly upon Christ's human body which may be
preserved somewhere as the grand memorial of God's
love, Christ's obedience and our redemption, typified by
the golden bowl of manna in the Ark. B130
Perhaps indicating that Jesus' spear-marked and nail-marked
body is somewhere kept for future exhibit.
R3377:1
Whom they have pierced -- In the piercing of his side,
the foundation was laid for the fulfillment of Scripture.
R198:2*
Crucified; pierced by the spear and torn by the nails and
thorns. B130
Whose death ratified, or made effective, the New
covenant, through which Israel's favor comes. R1365:4
The full responsibility of the crucifixion was left with the
Jews. "His blood be upon us and upon our children."
(Matt. 27:25) R3896:6, R2472:6
Israel's pride led them to look only at the promises of
glory, honor and power to accompany the exaltation of
Israel, and ignore such passages as this which tell that
Messiah must first be rejected. R4782:2
Mourn for him -- Mourn that they rejected him. D600
Discerning that they made a great and horrible mistake in
crucifying their long-promised Messiah, their Redeemer.
SM426:T, R5578:1, R5599:1; Q421:3
They will be sorry; they will be cut to the heart.
CR164:2; R5234:3
When their blindness shall be turned away. OV194:4;
R5269:5; SM532:2
It was the prospect of this that assisted Jesus to so
patiently endure. R1821:5
Be ashamed--a mourning of penitence and not of despair;
caused by the spirit of favor which is shown them by the
long-lost brother now restored. R58:1*
Mourn for their sins, and turn to the Lord. R102:1
At the close of the storm, all mankind--the Jew first--shall
discern the new King and shall mourn for sin and that they
ever, in blindness, rejected him. D600
The time of Israel's recognition indicates that the time of
special favor to spiritual Israel must be correspondingly
Shouting, "Lo! this is our God, we have waited for him,
and he will save us." (Isa. 25:9) R1693:4
As Joseph's brethren mourned for him. R3982:4, R58:1*
Weeping, as did the woman who poured the ointment on
Jesus' feet. (Luke 7:38) R2626:6
Not with tears of hopeless sorrow. R2472:6
"Mourn over it." (Young's translation) R517:1*
As they come to see the actual facts. R1365:4
Their mourning will be a happy day for them. Their eyes
will open then to see what the love of God really is.
HG164:4
Their mourning will be turned into joy as they are freely
forgiven. R4710:6
For his only son -- "As over the only one." (Young's
translation) R517:1*
Zechariah 13
Zechariah 13:1
In that day --In the Millennial Age. R2670:4,

R1710:5
A fountain opened -- The great washing time.
R2670:4, R1710:5
By faith in the blood of Christ to be made every whit
whole and fit for fellowship of angels and saints. R1710:5
"There is a fountain filled with blood, drawn from
Immanuel's veins." R1230:1
In full, agreement with this is the significance of the word
"Siloam." (John 9:11) It signifies "the sending forth," or
"the fountain." R2670:4
To the house of David -- In the house of David.
R1710:5
Zechariah 13:4
In that day -- The day of trouble. R2338:5

Shall be ashamed -- There will be a general change of
front on the part of religious teachers. R2338:5
Of his vision -- The false gospel. R2338:5
Zechariah 13:5
I am no prophet -- They will desire to disavow their

previous occupation. R2338:5
Zechariah 13:6
Unto him -- Unto the clergy of the nominal church.

R2338:5
Religious leaders will be so ashamed of the false gospel
which they have proclaimed that they will desire to
disavow their previous occupation. R2338:5
In thine hands -- Implying injury or destruction of
power or influence once exercised. R2338:5
I was wounded -- In the time of trouble. R2338:5
Seeming to indicate severe usage received by religious
leaders from their former flocks. R2338:5
Our Lord was wounded in the hands--crucified. Q740:2
Seems to have no reference to the wounding of our Lord at
his crucifixion. R2338:6
House of my friends -- Indicating severe usage at the
hands of their former flocks. R2338:5
"He came unto his own, and his own received him not."
(John 1:11) Q740:2
Zechariah 13:7
My shepherd -- The true servants of God. R2338:6

My fellow -- The Lord's special messenger in the
Harvest of the Gospel age. R3818:6*, R6001:4*
Smite the shepherd -- Jesus' death. R5550:3, R1205:2
Pastor. R3776:2
Shall be scattered -- The apostles would all be
offended, discouraged, stumbled. R5550:3
Therefore, during the 40 days between his resurrection
and ascension, Jesus' chief concern was to regather them
and re-establish their faith in him as the long-looked-for
Messiah. B111
God permits this for their proving and development.
R2338:6
"All ye shall be offended because of me this night."
(Matt. 26:31) B111; R4712:2
Turn mine hand -- Use my power to protect. R2338:6
No scattering of the sheep, but the reverse--the "hand" or
power of the great Jehovah would rest upon the little ones
left over. R6001:4*
The little ones -- The weak ones. R2338:6
Zechariah 13:8
Two parts -- The Little Flock and the Great Company.

R3776:2, R3634:1
Two companies, both justified, begotten of the spirit, and
candidates for joint-heirship with Christ. (See also Lev.
16:7-10 & Lev. 23:17) R4079:4*
Possibly, the first class is the very elect; the second class,
those who go into the Second Death; and the third, the
Great Company and all mankind who go into the time of
trouble. Q712:4
Cut off and die -- Being consecrated unto death.
R3634:1
But the third -- The world of mankind. R3634:1
These three parts are not equal parts. R3634:1, R508:6*;
Q712:4
Zechariah 13:9
Through the fire -- The time of trouble. Q712:4;

D527
The world of mankind will pass from death conditions to
life conditions during the Millennium. R3634:1
Probably some of the living nations will pass over into the
Kingdom without going into the tomb. R3634:1
Refine -- The great time of trouble will have a refining
influence on the world and on the Great Company.
Q712:4
All will be granted an opportunity for coming, through the
divine processes of the Millennial age, back to the full
perfection of human life lost by Father Adam's
transgression. R3634:2
Call on my name -- All who are returned to harmony
with God will recognize him as such. R3634:2
I will hear them -- God will recognize them as his
people. R3634:2
Zechariah 14
Zechariah 14:1
The day of the LORD -- Already begun. R286:5

When the first return of Israelites to Palestine will have
taken place. R286:3
Zechariah 14:2
Gather all nations -- Gog and Magog, the hosts of

merciless plunderers of regathered Israel. D554, D555
Against Jerusalem -- The Scriptures clearly show that
the end of Jacob's trouble will take place right in
Jerusalem. CR141:6
The capital city of regathered Israel. OV69:1
City shall be taken -- The battle, at first, goes against
Israel. R286:3
Zechariah 14:3
Then shall -- The scene is laid in the time of trouble,

probably near its close. R286:3
God interferes only when the great gathering is completed
and Jerusalem is taken. HG89:6
Synchronizing with the type in Egypt. It was in the midst
of the alarm caused by the seventh and last plague that the
Israelites were called out of Egypt. HG91:5
The LORD -- Jehovah--exclusively the Father's name.
R286:2, R1874:1; D650
Go forth -- Will reveal himself, not as a man, but
manifest his divine power. CR141:5; D555
Here Israel comes to recognize Jesus as the Son of God,
for "the Lord my God shall come, and all thy saints with
thee." (vs. 5) R410:1
Israel's first realization of the Kingdom having come.
R148:4
Against those nations -- The foes of regathered Israel.
D555
The time having come to manifest his justice against them,
and his favor to Israel. R286:3
As when he fought -- In olden times for Israel, D650
For Joshua against the six Amalekite kings at Gibeon, and
for David against the Philistines at Perazim. D555, D650
When he miraculously delivered Israel from the hosts of
Midian by Gideon and his band. R3469:2, R4083:2,
R1876:4
Jehovah fought Israel's battles anciently, seen only with
the eyes of their understanding. R296:3
The deliverance will be so great that they will recognize
God's power and favor. R286:3
Overthrowing nations so much stronger than they, that it
was a miracle. R148:5
Zechariah 14:4
And his feet -- Jehovah's favor or dominion. D650;

R286:2 R5437:2
"I will make the place of my feet glorious." (Isa. 60:13)
R286:2, R5437:5; D647
Accomplished through his representative, Jesus. R286:5
Not the literal feet of Christ, but symbolically, the feet of
his father, Jehovah. R1874:1, R286:2; D649
Or, residence. R286:2
Shall stand -- Be established. R286:4
Or, rest. R286:4
Jehovah's feet shall stand on the Mount of Olives as one at
first, before its division. R287:1
In that day -- After the Church is glorified; at the close
of Jacob's trouble. R5437:2, R286:2
The Day of Jehovah. R5255:6
In the Millennium. D649
Mount of Olives -- Kingdom of light, peace and divine
blessing. R5437:5, R286:5; D651
Located to the east (or sunrising) of Jerusalem (the
peaceful habitation). R286:5
The literal mountain will probably be involved. R5437:2
As the olive furnishes both light and food, the Mount of
Olives would represent the Kingdom of God. R5437:5
Cleave in the midst -- Representing the two phases of
the Kingdom. R286:5; D652
A part of the work of the glorified Church. R5437:2
Experiencing a great earthquake. R5437:2, R5255:6
Toward the east -- Open to the Sun of Righteousness,
free from the shadows of sin and death. D653
A very great valley -- The Valley of Blessings, God's
Kingdom. D652
A place of favor and protection, guaranteed by both the
heavenly and earthly phases of the Kingdom. R286:6
The valley of mercy, between and under the care of the
spiritual and human phases of the Kingdom. D653
"Passing through the valley of mourning, they change it
into a place of (joy) springs." (Psa. 84:6), D653
Of the mountain -- The Kingdom. D653
Shall remove -- From earthly to heavenly conditions.
D653; R286:5
Toward the north -- Toward the Pleiades, the celestial
center of the universe, the seat of the divine empire. D653
And half of It -- The earthly half, the Ancient
Worthies. D653; R286:6
Toward the south -- To complete restitution to perfect
human life. D653
Zechariah 14:5
And ye shall -- While spoken to Israel only, yet it will

not stop there--for whomsoever will may become an
Israelite. D654
Flee to the valley -- The Valley of Blessings, God's
Kingdom. D652
Israel is represented as fleeing to this place of protection
and safety. R286:6
My God shall come -- Thus will Jehovah, my God,
come in. D654
The saints with thee -- "The Lord cometh with ten
thousands of his saints." (Jude 14) C302
Meaning, both in Hebrew and Greek, the "holy ones,"
those begotten by the Spirit and born of God; viz., Christ
and his Body. HG23:5
All the holy ones shall be thus united with him. D654
Christ coming for his saints and our gathering together
unto him is certainly the "coming as a thief," but not the
appearing with him in glory, which must be a later event.
R245:4*, R154:6*
When he appears in glory we are with him; and we must
be gathered to meet him before that. R579:5, R263:2,
R19:2
Zechariah 14:6
In that day -- In the Millennial day. D655

Not "the Day of Vengeance." D655
Clear, nor dark -- Bright, nor the darkness thick.
D655
Zechariah 14:7
Shall be one day -- Shall be the one. D655

Known to the LORD -- Foreknown to the Lord. D655
Not day, nor night -- Neither full day nor night. D655
Because, as generation after generation are brought back
from the tomb they will be in various stages of restitution
toward perfection. D655
Typified by the standing of the sun at the overthrow of the
Amorites, as an evidence of the Lord's power. A61
At evening time -- At the close of the Millennial day.
D655
The evening of that dark day, or period of trouble. R286:5
It shall be light -- Clear light. D655
High noon--its sun shall never set. D655
Zechariah 14:8
Living waters -- "Waters of life, clear as crystal."

(Rev. 22:1) Restitution blessings. D655
Compare with Ezek. 47:1-9. D650
Zechariah 14:9
LORD shall be king -- Jehovah. through Christ as his

vicegerent. A303; R3114:1
All will recognize our Lord as the great teacher. SM58:3
"Give the king (this king whom thou hast appointed) thy
judgments and thy righteousness unto the King's
(Jehovah's) son." (Psa. 72:1) R1415:5
By the end of that day his will shall be done on earth even
as it is done in heaven. D656
Over all the earth -- Not only King of the Jews. B81
Zechariah 14:10
Inhabited in her place -- The population outside the

wall near the Jaffa Gate, here described, bids to be greater
than that within. R1382:4
Tower of Hananeel -- Its ruins and foundations were
discovered in excavating for a building across from the
Tower of David in 1886 AD. R1390:2
Zechariah 14:13
A great tumult -- The time of trouble. R3271:3;

SM735:T; OV341:2
Rise up against -- The disconcerted hosts will effect
the complete disruption of the present order of things.
R5604:5
Anarchy--the general uprising of the people. OV341:2;
SM454:2
See comments on Zech. 8:10.
Zechariah 14:16
Go up from year to year -- All nations of earth will

send their ambassadors to Jerusalem. OV69:1
To worship the King -- Upon such as will conform to
the arrangements, the divine blessing will rest. OV69:1
Zechariah 14:17
Unto Jerusalem -- Jerusalem, rebuilt, is to be the

headquarters of the nations. HG36:6
All nations will receive a share of the blessings by coming
under the same conditions and participating in Israel's
New (Law) covenant. OV85:1
No rain -- No blessings of restitution. Q171:T;
R5583:4
Blessings only on those who will seek to keep the divine
law. R4819:5
Any nation who shall not recognize Jerusalem as God's
government shall have no special blessing. OV96:3;
R5583:4
May be both literal and symbolic. Q205:T, Q622:1
If there were no rain, there would be no fruitage. R5583:4
Zechariah 14:20
HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD -- All will be

consecrated to the Lord and all will walk in his ways.
R1374:6
Surely a change of sentiment from that prevailing in the
Malachi
General
Malachi's prophecy concludes the Old Testament canon.
It contains not only a divine rebuke for sin, but also a divine
promise of rescue. It fits well to the time generally assigned
to it--Nehemiah's period. R4930:3
Malachi the prophet spoke for and represented Jehovah to
the Israelites. His prophecy is supposed to have been written
during the time of the absence of Nehemiah, the governor, at
the court of the king of Persia. The interim of his absence is
thought to have been one of religious declension, as the
record shows a considerable stirring up and setting in order
again after his return. Malachi's prophecy, therefore, may
have served a double purpose--first to reprove and stimulate
the people of that time, and secondly, and much more
important, to give a general lesson applicable all the way
down through the more than twenty centuries since. His
prophecy is the last one of the canon of the Old Testament
Scriptures, and closes with exhortations and promises
respecting the coming of Messiah, for whom the Jewish
people had at that time waited for more than fifteen centuries.
R3683:1,2 Malachi uttered his prophecy during the period of
Nehemiah's absence from Jerusalem at the court of Persia,
and the return of Nehemiah may at the time have seemed like
a fulfillment of Malachi's prophecy--"The Lord whom ye seek
shall suddenly come to his temple," etc. No doubt the
testimony of the Lord given through Malachi prepared the
people for their quick response to Nehemiah's energetic
appeals and commands. R2540:2
This prophecy is addressed to Israel. It is a reproof for
their wayward and evil course and a warning of the just
retribution that must surely follow, if they did not repent and
turn to God. Malachi was the last of the Hebrew prophets;
his name signifies, "The Messenger of Jehovah." He was the
last messenger to Israel previous to John the Baptist, the
immediate forerunner of Christ, the great messenger of
Jehovah's covenant; and well would it have been for Israel
had they heeded the warning and prepared their hearts to
receive the Lord's Anointed. While it is clear that the
prophecy thus addressed to Israel applied to them primarily, it
is also manifest, as shown by the Lord and the apostles, that it
had a much wider application; and that in a yet fuller sense it
was addressed to spiritual Israel, and that it applies to the
second advent of the great "Messenger of the Covenant,"
whose work will fully accomplish all of these predictions. In
the largest and fullest sense, therefore, we recognize this
prophecy by Malachi as addressed to "both the houses of
Israel"--to all Israel after the flesh, toward the close of the
Jewish dispensation, and subsequently to all of nominal
spiritual Israel, toward the close of the Gospel dispensation.
R1537:3,6; R1538:1
Malachi 1
Malachi 1:1
The burden -- Containing not only a divine rebuke for sin,

but also a divine promise for rescue. R4930:3
Serving a double purpose--to reprove and stimulate the people
of that time and, more importantly, to give a general lesson
applicable ever since. R3683:2
While more or less applicable at the time and to the people
addressed, it was evidently intended specially for the Gospel
Church. R2542.3
Word of the LORD -- The last message sent by Jehovah
to Israel. B249
By Malachi -- "Messenger of Jehovah." R3683:2,
R1537:3
The last of the Hebrew prophets. R1537:3
Malachi. the prophet, spoke for and represented Jehovah to
the Israelites. R3683:1
Malachi uttered the words of his prophecy during the period
of Nehemiah's absence from Jerusalem at the court of Persia.
R3683:1, R2540:2, R2534:1, R4930:3
Malachi 1:2
Yet ye say -- The needed reformation fits equally well to

our day. R4930:3
Malachi 1:4
Whereas Edom -- Christendom. D15

Malachi 1:6
Son honoureth his father -- Such love and reverence

should be the greater toward God in proportion as God is
great above all others. R2540:3
If they claimed God as their Father, they should render to him
the love of children. R2540:3
Disrespect and disobedience to parents fosters proportionate
disrespect to God and irreverence in holy things. R2540:6
Because of superior educational opportunities, children today
are inclined toward self-confidence and self-satisfaction, and
feelings of disrespect toward their parents. R2540:6
A servant his master -- If they claimed to be God's
servants, they should render to him servant's reverence.
R2540:3
Ye say, Wherein -- Presupposing that the majority does
not realize how completely the spirit of selfishness dominates
their hearts. R2540:6
Malachi 1:7
Ye offer -- You Jews, in the days of Nehemiah's absence.

R2534:1
Contemptible -- Common--they had become careless
respecting the things offered unto the Lord. R2541:1
Malachi 1:8
Ye offer the blind -- And not the unblemished fatling.

R2534:2
The spiritual Israelite offers the fruit of his lips in prayer and
praise; but if in a perfunctory manner as a duty and not from
his heart, they are blind, sick and lame offerings, which the
Lord despises. R2541:1
So with some in spiritual Israel; they have consecrated but
they have lost the spirit of devotion. R2541:1
Ye offer the lame -- As Christendom, with an outward
show of reverence, observes Lenten seasons as duty, not
prompted by the spirit of love. R2542:6
Unto thy governor -- Using, for illustration, the custom of
that time of entreating an earthly governor for a favor by
bringing a gift. R2541:1
Malachi 1:9
Hath been by your means -- Consider what kind of

present you have brought to him. R2541:2
Malachi 1:10
Who is there -- "O, that there were someone." (Leeser,

R.V.) R2541:2
Shut the doors -- Lock up the doors of the sanctuary.
(Leeser, R.V.) R2541:2
For nought -- Omit these words. R2541:2
Neither do ye -- "That ye might not." (Leeser, R.V.)
R2541:2
Altar for nought -- From the Lord's standpoint, merely
formalistic religion may just as well be abandoned entirely.
R2541:2
Malachi 1:11
Shall be -- The Common Version, "shall be," in the future

tense, is correct; and not "is," in the present tense, as the
Revised Version. R3874:2
"Is," in Revised Version, meaning God's name was great at
the time of the writing of the prophecy. We have evidence
that other nations, even those in idolatry, had a reverence for
Jehovah--the Philistines (1 Sam. 4:7,8; 6); Nebuchadnezzar
(Dan. 4:37); Darius (Dan. 6:26, 27); Cyrus (Ezra 1:2) and
Balaam (Num. 24). R2541:3
Among the Gentiles -- As well as among the Jews. A69
Incense -- This word is from the same root as the name
Keturah. PT379:1*
Malachi 1:13
Ye said also -- Distorting the truth, for the truth had to be

the means of giving acceptability to the counterfeit. R358:5*
Malachi 2
Malachi 2:5
Of life -- It is not heaven or hell, or any other place or

condition, that was held out through the Law; but life itself,
that renders any condition possible. R822:3*
Malachi 2:11
Hath married -- Judah is represented as being the

unfaithful husband. R1389:1
Malachi 2:15
A godly seed -- Or, margin, "a seed of God." In other

words, a second Adam and his wife; "for the children of the
promise (the Gospel Church) are counted for the seed."
(Rom. 9:8) HG100:3
Malachi 3
Malachi 3:1
Behold -- Malachi's prophecy contains not only a divine

rebuke for sin, but also a divine promise of rescue. R4930:3
Addressed to "both the houses of Israel"--fleshly Israel at the
close of the Jewish dispensation, and nominal spiritual Israel
toward the close of the Gospel dispensation. R1538:1,
R1440:3
I -- Jehovah. R3683:1
Send my messenger -- John the Baptist--"a prophet, yea,
more than a prophet" (Luke 7:26)--a special ambassador of
God at Jesus' time to do an introductory work related to the
Kingdom. R2622:1, R1537:3
Not the Messiah, but the forerunner of the Messiah. R1736:3
The antitype of Elias and John the Baptist--the Church
militant, the Church on earth. R1538:1, R2838:3
And the Lord -- Adon, from the same root as Adonai.
E48
Signifying master, superior, teacher. R3683:5
Shall suddenly come -- Unexpectedly, not quickly.
R3683:6
To test and prove you as a people. SM482:1
By the sure word of prophecy we recognize his presence.
R1538:2, R1440:6
The return of Nehemiah may have seemed like a fulfilment of
this prophecy. R2540:2
To his temple -- "Which Temple ye are." (1 Cor. 3:17)
R3683:5
The elect Church. R1538:2, R1484:6, R414:3
When the Lord suddenly came to the Jewish Temple they
were unprepared to receive him. R1537:3
Implying that Messiah would be not only an antitypical
Prophet, an antitypical King, but also an antitypical Priest.
SM213:1; R4646:5
Even the messenger -- Not the maker. E59
My servant, Chief Messenger, archangel. B147; T33; E72;
R490:2
"The Lord himself shall descend from heaven...with the voice
of the archangel." (1 Thes. 4:16) B147
Or, Mediator. R4931:4, R4515:1, R4496:1, R4463:5;
CR58:3
Our Lord did not become a Mediator, in any sense, until he
was raised from the dead as the head of the spiritual seed of
Abraham. R4437:6
Showing that Messiah would not be Jehovah, but Jehovah's
The angel, or messenger, who comes down from heaven at his
second advent and binds Satan. R1233:2
The Son does not claim higher honor than to be the Father's
agent and messenger of Jehovah's covenant. HG297:2
Angelic messengers of Jehovah have in the past been
worshipped as messengers of Jehovah, and Jesus is the chief
messenger. E72
In two capacities--first, the suffering or sacrificing one; and,
second, the anointed, glorified one or restorer. R3685:2
At his first advent he began to serve the New covenant by
providing the price, the blood, which should ultimately seal it
and make it effective. R4496:1
The one through whom its provisions will be accomplished,
the seed of Abraham, "which seed is Christ." (Gal. 3:16)
R3684:1
The antitypical Moses, Messiah. OV89:3; PD35/46
He it is, who, as the Servant of the Law covenant, will make it
really effective to you in a way that Moses could not do.
CR99:2
A role typified by the "curious girdle" of the ephod of Israel's
High Priest's garments of glory and beauty. T33
The Royal Priesthood dies with Christ for the sealing of the
New covenant. R4319:6
Primarily, our Lord Jesus. R5119:3, R4495:6; CR99:1,4
All his "members" are ministers, servants of the New
covenant. R4537:6, R4495:6
The Church serves, or ministers, to the New covenant as an
attorney serves in drawing up an agreement of covenant.
R4496:4
Christ and the Church now minister: (1) in gathering the
members of the Mediator; (2) in learning and teaching the
lessons necessary to qualify for the position; and (3) in
preparing the blood with which it is to be sealed. R4496:4
Of the covenant -- The New (Law) covenant. R4463:5,
R4646:5, R4495:6, R4496:1, R4515:1, R4931:4, R5442:5,
R1357:2; Q422:2, Q425:2
Through the New covenant addition to the original Abrahamic
covenant, the world is to get all of its blessings and favors of
restitution. R5300:4
Messiah, who would transmute Israel's Law covenant, which
was unto death, into a New Law covenant unto eternal life.
R4646:4; CR99:1
Jesus became the Messenger, or Servant, of the New covenant
at Jordan. R4496:1
At his second advent, establishing Israel's New covenant.
R5031:2, R4715:3
Presenting himself to those who were heirs of the New
covenant--the Jews. R5119:3
The Abrahamic, or Oath-bound, covenant. R3683:6
The covenant made with Abraham, that in his seed should all
the families of the earth be blessed. (Gen. 22:18) R1537:3
Whom ye delight in -- For whom you have joyfully
looked. R3684:3, R4595:5, R4931:4, R4940:1, R4646:5,
R4463:5; CR99:1
The one whom you have been so long praying for. R4940:1,
R4595:5
The Jews are still delighting in this promise of the Messiah.
R3684:3
Israel delighted to think of the coming Messenger of the New
covenant and of the blessings which would then be theirs.
R2838:4
Every Israelite mother longed for the birth of a son, hoping
that she might be honored as the parent of the seed of the
woman who would bruise the serpent's head. R4940:4
"The desire of all nations." (Hag. 2:7) R3684:3
The LORD of hosts -- Jehovah of hosts. E48
Malachi 3:2
Who -- Those with proper faith and character structure.

R5916:5
May abide -- There may be disappointment in connection
with the much-longed-for Messenger. R4931:4
Not many will abide, not many will stand--the majority will
fall. R4931:4
Although the inspection will be most critical and searching,
the inspector is our Lord and Master who has assured us of
his love and sympathy. R3865:1
Day of his coming -- Our Lord's manifestation at the first
advent and throughout the Gospel age. R4708:3, R4646:5
Close of the Gospel age, Day of the Lord, Day of Vengeance,
etc., in which the old order perishes and the new order is
ushered in. R5916:1, R1653:6, R5442:3
The coming of the King will mean national, ecclesiastical and
personal judgments and the complete curtailment of vice.
R1692:6, R5916:6, R1538:2
The last two chapters of Malachi particularly refer to
Messiah's coming and the special trials which the day of the
Lord's presence would bring with it. B249
Presence, after arrival. R388:2
The Harvest time of the Gospel age, the day of reckoning, the
very day in which we are now living. R1357:2
And who shall stand -- Who shall stand the test. A320;
R4709:1, R4477:3, R4664:4, R3865:2
The question is not, Who shall fall? but, Who shall be able to
stand? R4477:3, R4208:5
The Lord is now determining who are the consecrated class.
R4709:1
The intimation is that not many will stand. R4931:4,
R4709:1
In the present conflict between the Bible and the Evolution
theory. R2836:3
"The great day of his wrath is come and who shall be able to
stand?" (Rev. 6:17) R3865:2
None but the faithful shall be able to stand because the Lord
purposely will make the test so severe as to sift and shake out
all others. (2 Thes. 2:11) R1280:1
Who shall be so thoroughly established in love that the trials
and testings necessary to prove him so will be passed
successfully? R4664:4
A thousand shall fall to one who will stand. The very elect
will not be deceived. The question is, Are we of the very
elect? R4208:6, R3865:2
All of those who profess to be his people are now under rigid
inspection. R1440:6
When he appeareth -- Inspects. R3865:2
He has been appearing, in the sense of making himself known
to those in the right condition of heart. R4708:3
A presence made known, but not necessarily by natural sight.
R388:2
The end of the age is the time of the Lord's inspection of the
entire household of faith, beginning at the top, with the saints,
but extending to every consecrated one. R3864:6
Referring to the entire appearance of Messiah, beginning at
Jordan. His appearance will culminate in his glorious
revelation at his second advent. R4708:6
A refiner's fire -- Now doing its work, and thousands and
tens of thousands are falling. R5916:5, R4208:6
The Refiner is seeing to it that the members of his Body
should pass through fiery trials to test them. R4646:5;
SM213:2
Giving close inspection, that the heat be neither too great nor
too little, the time neither too long nor too short. R4931:4
The Lord will require such purity, such holiness, that few will
come up to his requirements. R4931:4
He will purge all imperfections from those to be associated
with him. R4595:5
Let the dross be consumed. In the heat of the flame do not
remove the "living sacrifice" from the altar. R1944:5
"Think it not strange concerning the fiery trial that is to try
you." (1 Pet. 4:12) R1823:1, R1944:5
"The trial of your faith being much more precious than of
gold that perisheth." (1 Pet. 1:7) R5499:6
"Many shall be purified and made white and tried." (Dan.
12:10) R1823:4
The object of the refiner is to separate the dross; but if the
metal clings too closely to its impurities, more and more heat
will be applied until finally even the metal itself will be
destroyed, thus illustrating the causes which lead to the
Second Death. NS447:6
Messiah began his refining work, "to the Jew first," more than
18 centuries ago. R4931:4, R4708:6
A furnace hot enough to insure the separation of all the dross.
R4931:4
Destroying the dross of error. A320
Those who have been teaching errors will soon be ashamed
(Isa. 66:5), while the fire of this day will manifest the truth to
all. R5916:5
"The fire of God's jealousy" (Zeph. 3:8)--not merely of
destruction, but also of purification. R5442:4, R3684:4
"The fire of that day shall try every man's work of what sort it
is." (1 Cor. 3:13) R5916:1, R3684:5
Fullers' soap -- Which would take out all stains and leave
the garment pure and white. R5119:5, R4595:5, R4931:4;
SM213:2
Malachi 3:3
And he shall sit -- To remove all the dross of self-will,

personal ambition and pride. R3865:2
As a refiner -- Purifying. All the dross must be
eliminated. R5119:4, R4931:4, R1538:2, R5115:1
As the refiner of gold watches the metal in the crucible to see
his image reflected in it, so the Lord has his eye upon you.
R1944:5, R1538:2
Separating with unerring precision the pure gold of actual
loyalty to God from the dross of mere profession and outward
forms of godliness. R1440:6
During the entire Gospel age. R5115:1, R5119:5, R4708:3,
R4646:5; CR99:4
Discriminating--he came to his own and his own received him
not, "but, as many as received him, to them gave he power to
become the sons of God." (John 1:11-13) R5119:4
"I will turn my hand upon thee and purely purge away thy
dross and take away all thy sin." (Isa 1:25) R1944:3
It was when the cross grew heaviest, the clouds were darkest
and the tempest was highest that the Master's presence was
most sensibly realized and the lessons of faith, trust and love
were sealed upon the hearts of his disciples. R1944:4
And purifier -- Relating to all things--questions of
governments and subjects, capitalists and laborers, masters
and servants--purifying all things--political, social, economic
and religious--commencing with the Church. R414:3
Sometimes, when impurities cling tightly, dissolving the silver
in water and then restoring it in a pure and permanent form, it
becomes more beautiful than before. R180:2*
And he shall purify -- Causing them to reflect his image.
R571:1
The sons of Levi -- Typical of all believers, the household
of faith, of whom the chief are the Royal Priesthood. A320;
R4708:6, R4477:3, R4595:6, R3684:4, R3864:6, R1316:4,
R388:2; Q5:5
That the Lord might find the antitypical Priests, and the
antitypical Levites to serve in the antitypical Temple.
SM213:2
Referring to the antitypical priesthood--both the Royal Priests
and the Great Company. R5119:5, R4708:6
Not literal, but antitypical--the Church constitutes the
Levitical system, spiritual Levites. R4877:5
The Church are members of the great Refiner and, at the same
time, of the Levite company being refined. R4709:4
The earlier part of the judgment upon Christendom will be
especially upon the antitypical sons of Levi, the silver class.
R5442:4, R3684:5
The silver class--the Great Company, who come up out of
great tribulation. R5442:4, R4079:4*
Applies also to fleshly Israel, who are to be purged and
prepared for the great Messiah. R5442:5, R4940:4
Purge them -- Of everything in the nature of dross--
self-will, personal ambition, pride. R3865:2
This purging does not come all at once, but in our daily
Strange as it may appear, yet in accord with the records of the
past, the fiery trial seems to find the most dross amongst the
leaders of the flock. R3865:4
The Great Company will be dealt with, not with a view to
their destruction or injury, but with a view to the destruction
of their flesh which they have failed to sacrifice--"that the
spirit may be saved." (1 Cor. 5:5) R5442:5
This purgatory will begin in the close or "Harvest" of the
Gospel age--the Millennial or purgatorial age lapping over
upon it. R1470:1
As gold and silver -- Priest and Levites, the Little Flock
and the Great Company. R4709:2, R3684:5, R3865:1,
R4708:6, R5119:5
Silver is a symbol of truth--he shall purge out error from
truth. R388:2
The trouble which will purge the Great Company of the
nominal church, who are unworthy of a place in the real
Church, is a part of that which is coming upon the world in
general. R1470:2
That they may offer -- Themselves. R1470:1
The Great Advocate imputes his merit to each who offers
himself in sacrifice. R5119:5, R4632:4
The purpose of finding the priests and Levites is to make
them ready as ministers of the New covenant, which is to be
for all the people through them. R4709:2
Unto the LORD -- Jehovah. E48
An offering -- Consecration. SM213:3, R4632:4
An acceptable sacrifice. R5119:5, R4493:4, R4632:4,
R4877:5, R4708:6; Q5:5
The offering of the Church: "Present your bodies a living
sacrifice, holy, acceptable." (Rom. 12:1) R4709:4, R1470:1
In righteousness -- A right offering; also an offering
which will effect righteousness through the cancellation of
sin. R3867:4, R4493:4
As Israel's sin offerings were to effect righteousness.
R3867:4
Making good, in the Father's sight, for all their blemishes of
the flesh, enabling them to offer a righteous sacrifice which
God could accept. R4632:4, R4493:4
Malachi 3:4
Then -- After "Jacob's trouble." R5442:6

Of Judah -- All antitypical Israelites--all those who are
truly the Lord's people in the Millennial age. R3684:6
Pleasant -- Accepted. SM213:3
Fleshly Israel will be received back to favor under the New
Law Covenant, and be used as a channel of blessing to all the
world. R5442:6
Having learned distinctly, and in a practical form, what is
pleasing and what is displeasing to the Lord. R3684:6
Hitherto Zionism has been a political movement in the
interest of Jewish nationalization; but the time has come for a
real movement for those who have faith to draw near to God.
SM213:3
Unto the LORD -- Unto Jehovah. E48
Malachi 3:5
Near to you -- To the great systems which compose

nominal spiritual Israel--Christendom, so-called. R1538:2
To judgment -- Messiah's Kingdom means requirements of
faithfulness to the principles of the truth. SM215:3
Who cannot see, in the severe criticisms leveled at
Churchianity in these days, that the judgment has begun?
R1538:4
And I will -- In the time of trouble, and afterwards.
R3684:6, R1653:6
Be a swift witness -- His reign will be a terror to evildoers.
Its first work will be the smiting of the earth with the rod of
his mouth and the slaying of the wicked with the breath of his
lips. (Isa. 11:4) R1352:2
Against the sorcerers -- Following in the wake of the
disregard of divine Law that led to the neglect of tithes and
the offering of the poor, lame and blind. R2534:1
Those who teach doctrine of devils in the name of
Christianity. R1538:2
The adulterers -- Those claiming to be the virgin Church
of Christ, and yet living in unholy alliance with the world.
R1538:4
False swearers -- Those who have made a covenant of
entire consecration to the Lord and have been unfaithful to it.
R1538:4
Those that oppress -- Great corporations, trusts and
monopolies on the one hand, and unions and labor federations
on the other. R1518:5
Malachi 3:6
I change not -- Because perfect in justice, love, wisdom

and power. E34; R586:5, R5857:1
Because he is so wise that he knows the future as well as the
past. CR425:2; R904:2, R1267:5, R1560:1, R2026:6
He cannot reverse his decree. R1030:4, R1005:6; E34
God has a definitely fixed purpose, and all his purposes shall
be accomplished. A65
All the changes of God's course or conduct are working out
the accomplishment of his original purpose which
contemplated these very changes. R2026:6
Therefore God's original purpose has not been changed by
reason of Adam's failure. R1267:5
The gifts and callings of God are things he will not repent of.
(Rom. 11:29) R3685:1
And will never clear the guilty. R586:5
If God were an unjust God we could never depend on him.
He might make some term or condition today and then alter it
tomorrow. But he is absolutely just. R5857:1
"From everlasting to everlasting, thou art God." (Psa. 90:2)
HG731:4
The basis for all our hopes lies in the unchangeable character
of our God. R3684:6, R1030:4
Are not consumed -- Were it not for the enduring mercy
of the Lord, the workers of iniquity would surely be
consumed. R1538:4
Malachi 3:7
Days of your fathers -- At the covenant at Sinai. R3685:2

Ye are gone away -- They had been unfaithful to their part
of the covenant. R5442:5
Return unto me -- Unto proper accord with the Lord.
R3685:2
The Lord is very gracious to those who return from the ways
of sin, patient with those who lack the spirit of love and
forgiveness, entreating them to join in his gracious plans and
arrangements. R3836:4
The parable of the prodigal son illustrates this promise.
R3835:2
Return unto you -- Prompt repentance, even at this critical
juncture, would save "Christendom" from the great impending
scourge. R1538:5
He would be as prompt and faithful in giving them blessings
as he was prompt and faithful in giving them chastisements
for their unfaithfulness. R3685.5
But ye said, Wherein -- This is the attitude of nominal
spiritual Israel in our day. "Thou sayest I am rich and
increased with goods and have need of nothing." (Rev. 3:17)
R1440:6
Their hearts had become so selfish, so stunted along spiritual
lines, they did not realize they were merely praying to the
Lord with their lips and their hearts were far from him.
R3685:5
Malachi 3:8
God -- A mighty, powerful, adorable one--to the

enlightened mind of the Christian; additionally, the gracious,
benevolent one. R2541:4
Have robbed me -- Of the loyalty and devotion of heart
promised. R1441:1
Of his honor, by affirming the doctrine of eternal torment,
ascribing to God a character blacker than Satan's. R1538:5
Instead of offering the Lord the very best, they proffered him
the weak, lame and poor, keeping the better for their own use.
R3685:5
Wherein have we -- The natural Israelite is represented as
doubting the matter. R2541:4
The spiritually starving find that either they have been
worshipping in a wrong direction or, worshipping in the right
direction, they have failed to present unto the Lord their very
best. R2541:4
In tithes -- One of the tithe-chambers of the Temple was
desecrated by fitting it up as a dwelling place for Tobiah, the
Ammonite, who, by marriage, became related to the High
Priest. R2534:1
Malachi 3:9
Cursed with a curse -- Pass through the great tribulation

and be brought through severe tests by trials and disciplines.
R2541:6
The coming of caterpillars, army worms, palmer worms,
locusts and grasshoppers upon Israel meant special
chastisements from the Lord. Similar things upon the world
of mankind meant no such thing. R2485:5
Have robbed me -- Many spiritual Israelites who have
made covenants with the Lord keep the very best of
everything for their own use, leaving for the Lord only the
remnants, the fag-ends of time, influence, reputation and
money. R3685:3, R2541:5
Sacrificing to human institutions and not to God. R2541:4
This whole nation -- God did not exact from other nations
a tithe, but neither did he promise other nations his special
care, bounty and blessing. R2485:5
Being one people, many of their interests were common;
likewise with the Lord's spiritual people before the Harvest.
R2541:5
Malachi 3:10
Bring ye -- Not because he is needy, but because he seeks

evidence of our sincerity and faithfulness in respect to our
covenant engagement when we pledged all that we possessed.
R3685:4
While opposed to "dunning" in religious circles, we fully
realize that the grace of giving is indissolubly attached to all
the other graces of God's spirit. R2540:3
If the heart of the giver is touched with a desire to offer
something in loving appreciation and worship to his Creator,
the effect will surely be a blessing to the giver--the sacrificer.
R2540:3
All the tithes -- The Jews had two obligatory tithes or
tenths--one tax for the support of the government and the
other for religious purposes. R2542:1
To be used for the maintenance of the priestly tribe, the
Levites, and for the relief of widows, orphans and other
unfortunates. R2485:1
To teach the people of Israel generosity and to inculcate in
them a realization of their obligations to God, and that all that
they enjoyed were his bestowments. R2485:2
Your will in all things. R2486:5
A tenth. He makes no positive requirements for spiritual
Israelites, leaving it to us--that by the degree of our sacrifices
we may demonstrate the measure of our love. R3686:6
Spiritual obligations, represented by the holy tithe, are now
left to the option of the spiritual Israelite, with no command
or stipulation as to the amount. R2542:1
We find no authority for the tithing system now, although we
believe that systematic giving is a helpful discipline,
increasing one's interest in the cause to which he gives.
R2486:2
Partakers of the spirit of the Lord have a mind, not merely to
give a tenth of all possessions and income to the Lord, but to
consecrate it all. R2542:2, R2486:4
Not an abandonment of houses, lands, families, etc. R2542:4
And prove me -- By fulfilling the terms of your covenant.
R3685:5
Spiritual Israelites--awaken to a fresh realization of his
goodness and bounty, and of your own obligation to spend
and be spent in his service. R2541:6
Pour you out a blessing -- A revival of spiritual health,
energy, vigor, joy. R2541:6
"There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that
withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty."
(Prov. 11:24) R2485:6
Not be room enough -- An overflow blessing. R2541:6
Malachi 3:11
The devourer -- The pests which injured the crops of

natural Israel. R2485:6
He shall not destroy -- The Lord reproves, not to
discourage, but for reformation. He chides, not to dishearten,
but to stimulate and revive. R2541:6
Malachi 3:13
Your -- Nominal Christendom. R2542:6

Words -- Attitude and sentiments. R2542:3
Your teachings. R1441:1
Stout against me -- In direct opposition to my Word.
R1441:1
Because the truth would expose their errors and sins and
destroy their friendly relationship with the world. R1441:2
Malachi 3:14
What profit is it -- Showing the restiveness of nominal

Christendom. What advantage will we have? A selfish
standpoint--viewing divine requirements as penal servitude.
R2542:6
"I see so many all around who do not serve the Lord, yet they
are not thus burdened and their lives hold rich reward."
R2995:2*
We might just as well have a good time. R2542:6
Walked mournfully -- Contritely. R1441:1
With an outward show of reverence, observance of Lenten
seasons, etc. R2542:6
Malachi 3:15
The proud happy -- The present is called "the present evil

world," (Gal. 1:4) not because there is nothing good in it, but
because evil is permitted to predominate. A67; HG538:2
This causes perplexity until the reason is seen. R376:6
"Though their eyes stand out with fatness and they have more
than heart could wish." (Psa. 73:7) R2025:5
But in the new Kingdom every one that exalteth himself shall
be abased, and the humble shall be exalted. (Luke 14:11)
R5218:6
Are set up -- In power. A257
It is those who selfishly seek their own present
aggrandizement, regardless of the interests of others, that are
most prosperous now and occupy the chief positions of
control. R1562:4
This is the age of the triumph of evil and the persecution of
"Lord, how long shall the wicked triumph, and all the workers
of iniquity boast themselves?" (Psa. 94:3,4) R1653:3
Malachi 3:16
Then -- In the Harvest of the Gospel age. D600, D601;

T86
They that feared -- Perfect love casts out slavish, but not
reverential, fear. R2289:5
Reverenced. OV423:1; R1441:4, R2289:6
Those who study their character. OV423:1
"The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him." (Psa.
25:14) R2208:3
This verse shows the attitude of the true saints in contrast
with that of nominal Christendom, shown in verses 13 to 15.
R2542:3
In the midst of all the confusion and error, God's people have
been developing. R1441:2
The LORD -- Not systems, creeds or traditions. R1441:4
Spake often -- Concerning the heavenly things. R2406:3
Feeling the need of help, counsel and encouragement as evil
prevailed. R2543:2, R4078:4
In Bible studies, prayer meetings, Sunday worship, or in the
home. OV423:1
They have a fellowship of spirit. They wish to have all the
helps the Lord has provided in these last days. They desire to
know all the various parts of God's plan. OV423:1
Encouraging and building one another up, telling of the Lord's
goodness and truth wherever they can find a listening ear.
R1441:3
The topic of their converse is the inspired Word of God.
R2406:3
At annual and one-day conventions. R3121:5
Those who have, but fail to use, opportunities for meeting and
speaking together manifest a lack of interest in our great
salvation. R2802:1
One to another -- Specially anxious for fellowship with
those who have similar characters, similar faith in the
precious blood, similar consecration, and who are similarly
passing through the hands of the great Polisher. R2406:3;
OV423:2
Being drawn nearer to each other as they realize that, after all,
the number of the faithful is extremely small. R2543:2
"He that loveth him that begat, loveth also him that is
begotten of God." (1 John 5:1) R2406:2
"Forsake not the assembling of yourselves together." (Heb.
10:25) R4078:1, R2466:2
"Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there
am I in the midst of them." (Matt. 18:20) R2406:3, R2543:3
We are like coals of fire, which, if separated, will cool; but, if
brought together, will increase the fervency of the entire
mass. R4077:1
Personally or through the printed page. Many isolated ones
meet through the Truth publications. R2543:2, R2406:2,
R2802:2
The LORD hearkened -- Noting those who spoke for
those things which are loving, gentle, pure, good, true,
modest, humble. R2407:1
Those who realize the Lord's presence with them when they
meet will be very careful of their words. R2543:3, R2407:1
Hears, notes and prospers our blessing of one another.
R4090:5
Reading the loyalty of our hearts with reference to his
glorious plan and our declaration of it to others. R1441:5
"Where two or three are met in my name, there am I in the
midst of them." (Matt. 18:19, 20) R2543:3
Thus representing his interest in our efforts to understand his
plan. R2543:2
Book of remembrance -- Signifying friendship, love and
blessing. God keeps a permanent record of his friends, but no
record of his enemies. NS69:1
Showing that the Lord takes full knowledge of his true
people. R2543:3
Indicating that he does not forget, and that he loves this class,
his true Church. OV423:3
The prompt and ready use of even the smallest talent is
carefully noted by our loving Lord. R1441:6
Not recording the imperfect rendering of service, but the
perfect intention with which it is rendered. R1441:6
If our names be not blotted out of this book through
unfaithfulness, we shall surely be gathered among the jewels.
R1441:5
Before him -- Before Jehovah. F666
That feared the LORD -- Reverenced the Lord.
OV423:1; R1441:4, R2289:4, R2543:3
Thought upon his name -- Not the names of Wesley,
Calvin, Knox or Luther. R1441:4; SM127:1
In olden times the name stood for the character--God's name
stands for his character, glorious in righteousness. OV423:4
His character, his goodness, his infinity, his plan, his love.
R2543:3
As they daily think upon the character of God they are
gradually changed into his character-likeness--"from glory to
glory." (2 Cor. 3:18) OV424:5; R2543:3
Wishing to have all the helps the Lord is providing in these
last days; desiring to know all the various parts of God's plan.
OV423:1
Malachi 3:17
They shall be mine -- Spiritual Israel: Jesus, the Head; the

Church, his members. R4931:1
Those ready to sacrifice every earthly hope, aim and object.
R5426:2, R4873:2, R3871:4, R3849:5, R795:5, R176:2
A class that is faithful, loyal, zealous for God and his truth.
R5145:1; OV424:7
These gems must be all found by God; he has appointed our
Lord to be the Master Workman in their preparation.
R5119:1
The faithful class, now gathered out of nominal spiritual
Israel, as well as a similar class gathered out of nominal
fleshly Israel in the Harvest of the Jewish age. R1538:5
Their character is fixed, their love for righteousness is
permanent and thoroughly developed, their spirit of love is
indelibly marked. R2689:5
Made manifest by the love of the truth. God sends strong
delusions to those who receive it from any other motive, or
for any other reason. R5800:4
The name of the bridegroom is given to his bride. R3970:5
"The Lord knoweth them that are his." (2 Tim. 2:19) F76;
R820:6
Lesson of a future reward. R4930:6
In that day -- In one sense, the Jewish Harvest, beginning
AD 29; but its completeness is shown in connection with the
Gospel Harvest. R2543:5
A harvest rather than a sowing time, a gathering rather than a
planting time--a time for the perfecting of those who have
consecrated all to the Lord. R442:2
The time of the Lord's second presence. B164; F274; T86;
OV425:2
The Lord's house is built up during the downfall of the
nations. R82:5*
Contradicting the thought that the Lord has been gathering his
jewels all along for the past 6000 years. R2404:2
The day that brings the glorification to the faithful "jewels"
or "wheat" class brings a different experience to the "tare"
class. R2543:6
When I make up -- Come to make up. SM246:T;
R5426:2
Preparing them. R5119:2
Searching for and gathering them. B164
Having been found by God, they are placed in the hands of
the great Lapidarist, Jesus, for cutting, polishing and fitting.
R5119:2
Suggesting a gradual and not an instantaneous work. R58:2*
The magnet of truth is gathering out the jewels, and the
reproaches of the world and the nominal church are refining
and fitting them for the Master's use. R472:6
The man who handles jewels sees to it first that they are
properly cut and polished; and afterwards he mounts them--
the mounting has much to do with the beauty of the jewels.
OV424:2
The jewels will not be made up, glorified, until the full
number of the elect has been found, polished and prepared.
SM246:T
Of his jewels God will make a beautiful diadem, set in the
gold of the divine nature, not to wear, but to exhibit to angels
and men. OV424:4
"Gather my saints together unto me." (Psa. 50:5)
"Gather the wheat into my barn." (Matt. 13:30)
"They shall gather together his elect." (Matt. 24:31)
B164; C139; D600; OV107:T; R4244:4*
My jewels -- The first of these jewels was our Lord Jesus.
The other jewels will be cut and polished after the similitude
of God's Son. R5119:1
The greatest of these was our Lord Jesus. The twelve apostles
were twelve large stones. Throughout the Gospel age, jewels
of different sizes have been found and cut. God will mount
them all in the first resurrection. OV424:3; R4931:1,
R5119:1, R5470:4, R5758:1
The Church class. R4646:2
The covenant-keeping sacrificers. R1170:4
Represented by the 12 jewels worn in the High Priest's
breastplate. T36
The jewels are not made up yet. We are called to be jewels.
CR56:3
These must be completed and glorified before the Ancient
Worthies can receive their blessing. OV119:2; R4931:1
Under the Headship of Jesus, they will constitute the
Messianic Kingdom. SM130:2
As diamonds are hard, firmness, endurance and patience is
required of the Lord's jewels. R5651:2
All know the necessity for cutting and polishing jewels so that
their real qualities may be developed; so the necessity for our
trials, perplexities and persecutions. OV425:1
Jewels are scarce, require to be searched for and washed from
the mire before being prepared to refract the light. Diamonds
are hard, representing character; crystallized, representing
willingness towards righteousness; worthless unless cut;
cannot cut, shape or polish themselves; sometimes require to
be more than half cut away before they are suitable; and are
embedded in cement while being polished. R2404:3,
R2405:3
The Christians are to be God's jewels on the spirit plane, as
the faithful Jews of the past are to be jewels on the earthly
plane. R4931:1
As jewels are scarce, so the "Lord's jewels" are described to
be only a Little Flock. (Luke 12:32) HG752:1
Be not discouraged if ye find but few jewels. R1348:6
Jewels have a value of their own, an intrinsic quality that
would be appreciated even if plentiful, but is all the more
marked because of their comparative scarcity. R2404:2
It is the spirit of the Law, the front part of Aaron's breastplate,
which bears the jewels, set in gold, representing the true
Israel, the Lord's "Little Flock." T36
Contrasted with the "proud" of verse 15; these are they "that
feared Jehovah and thought upon his name." (verse 16)
R2404:2
I will spare them -- Not in the sense of relieving them
from all suffering. R5119:2
Delivering them from those things which would prove too
weighty for them. R5119:2
But not from the polishing processes necessary to make them
acceptable as sons. R2405:4
As one who cares for precious jewels, so God cares for his
saints. OV424:2
They will be spared from passing through the culmination of
the great time of trouble. OV425:2; C146; R2543:5,
R1538:5, R1441:4
From both the great time of tribulation and the 1000 years of
judgment or trial which begins in the "time of trouble."
R2405:4
"Watch and pray that ye may be accounted worthy to escape
those things that shall come." (Luke 21:36) C146
"That we should not be judged with the world." (1 Cor.
11:32) R2405:4
His own son -- The proper father will instruct and
discipline his son, while overlooking the greater faults of
others. OV425:1; R2543:4
Malachi 3:18
Then -- In the Millennial age, when Christ's Kingdom shall

be inaugurated. T87; R2406:1
After the polishing of the jewels is complete and they have
been set in the great crown. R2406:1, R1441:5
Shall ye -- The world of mankind. T87
Return -- There shall be a turning point, a change in the
divine administration, though not a change in the divine plan.
R2543:5
Turn about, see things from the divine standpoint. R3209:1,
R492:5, R2406:1
There will be a grand reversal of the present order of things.
R1441:4, R2406:1, R376:6
A re-turn of the rule of righteousness. R2543:5
Discern between -- A work of division and separation, in
God's due time. R1270:6, R1779:3
Ignorance and superstition will be things of the past, and
righteousness will receive its due reward, while to evil will be
meted out its just deserts. A217
For in that day the distinction will be manifested. T87
Righteous and the wicked -- "In his day the righteous
shall flourish" and the "evildoer shall be cut off." (Psa. 72:7;
Psa 37:9) R2406:2
Malachi 4
Malachi 4:1
The day cometh -- Typically in 70 AD when Israel's

national existence was destroyed. R1537:6, R5317:3
The Millennial age. B151
Is now present. R571:2
Particularly referring to the special trials which the day of the
Lord's presence would bring with it. B249
The day that brings the glorification to the faithful "jewel" or
"wheat" class brings a different experience to the "tare" class.
R2543:6
The Day of Vengeance. B151; D11, D528; R1379:4
Burn as an oven -- The fire of God's indignation against
unrighteousness during the day of Christ. Q719:3
With the fire of God's jealousy. (Zeph. 3:8) R592:6; D528
Melting and dissolving the present earth--human society as
now organized under Satan's control. A69; HG539:1
Somehow the truth is either directly or indirectly to bring
about the smiting of the earth. R1352:2
And all the proud -- Pride and every other cause from
which haughtiness and oppression could again spring forth.
A319, A320
Pride leads into all sorts of mischief. R5704:5
Happy those who will surrender their pride and evil to be
destroyed that they themselves be not destroyed also in the
Second Death, as some resisters evidently will be during the
Millennial age. B151
"Seek meekness, seek righteousness, it may be that ye shall be
hid in the day of the Lord's anger." (Zeph. 2:3) R1963:6
That do wickedly -- There will be wicked people in the
earth at the time the Lord's Kingdom is established. R2374:3
Shall be stubble -- Under the feet of the righteous.
R2025:5
Shall burn them up -- All evil systems, errors and wilful
sinners. B151; R5317:2
Burn up evil throughout the entire Millennial age. R2544:1,
R5317:3, R5567:6
At the end of the Millennium there will be no proud people
on the earth. A319; R5704:5, R2544:1
Not consuming the individuals. They will cease to be "tares,"
but not cease to be human beings. R2543:6
Root nor branch -- For further development. D552
Completely consuming their hypocrisies and pretended
devotions to the Lord. R2543:6
Until every root and branch of sin is thoroughly consumed.
Q719:3; R4628:4, R5567:6, R5704:5
Those refusing to come into harmony with righteousness will
be destroyed in the Second Death. Q719:3; R5567:6
Malachi 4:2
But unto you -- The Lord links the fire upon the tare-field
with the speedy shining thereafter of the Sun of righteousness.
(Matt. 13:43) R2760:6
Who, looking from "the secret place of the Most High," see a
silver lining to the clouds of trouble. D616
A remnant of nominal spiritual Israel who heed the Word of
the Lord. To them belong the blessings of his special favor.
R1538:1
It is the Jews who see the Sun of Righteousness arise. R124:5
That fear my name -- Perfect love casts out slavish, not
reverential, fear. R2289:4
In the sense of fearing his displeasure, or fearing to come
short of the grand possibilities which he has so graciously put
within our reach. R2289:6
Sun of righteousness -- The Redeemer and his elect
Church. SM790:2, SM244:T; R4557:1, R5097:3, R5339:2,
R5420:2, R5769:3, R3686:2, R2833:6, R1491:5, R1185:5;
OV205:5; Q822:1
A synonym for the spiritual seed of Abraham. OV205:5
Jesus is the great Center of that Sun. R5135:6
Offering clear light. R1772:5
The enlightenment of the Truth. HG421:2
"For as the bright-shiner (the sun) cometh out of the east and
shineth even unto the west, so shall the presence of the Son of
Man be." (Matt. 24:27) D581
Pictured by Cyrus, whose name means "sun." HG521:1
During that glorious day "righteousness will be laid to the line
and justice to the plummet" (Isa. 28:17)--correcting the world
in righteousness. HG417:4
"Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun." (Matt.
13:43) A322; Q822:1; R4967:6, R5455:6, R5097:3,
R3686:2; OV205:5; SM244:1, SM287:T
Arise -- Now dawning. R4305:1, R4737:1, R5420:2;
SM554:3
Cannot fully arise until the Church passes beyond the veil.
R5762:2, R4677:2, R4967:6, R5008:1, R5420:2, R1644:5,
R5769:4; SM790:2
To shine out for 1000 years. R4988:4; SM471:1
To flood the world with the light of the knowledge of the
glory of God. OV381:T; SM55:T; R4557:1, R5008:1,
R5420:2, R3010:3, R2504:3; F112
The 6000-year night of sin will give place to the glorious day
of his presence. HG433:3
We have not yet experienced the rising of the Sun of
Righteousness, but we have with us the early gray dawn.
R5062:1, R5769:4, R5135:5; Bix
We will not be here when the Sun "rises." We are now in the
dawn, but there is quite a while between the first dawn of day
and the sunrise. R124:5
Its searching beam of truth already causes much confusion
amongst men, by shining into the dark places and revealing
error and corruption of every kind. D583
The dawning is gradual, but finally the full brightness shall
thoroughly banish the darkness of evil, ignorance and sin.
B156, B158
Putting an end to the "valley of the shadow of death." (Psa.
23:4) R5654:4
"Jehovah speaketh and calleth the earth from the rising of the
sun unto the going down thereof" (Psa. 50:1)--from the
beginning to the close of the Millennial day. R3647:2
"Then shall the blind see out of obscurity." (Isa. 29:18)
R1311:5
With healing -- For the cure of all the masses of the earth
R4987:3
With restitution, blessing all the families of the earth.
CR463:4; R1877:6, R2122:6
When mental, physical and moral restitution will be manifest,
faith will be, to a considerable extent, different from the blind
faith necessary now. F113
This was God's plan and purpose before the foundation of the
world; the gospel first declared to Abraham. R5057:3
Messiah, as Priest, will heal, console, forgive, instruct.
SM55:T
Sin, pain, sorrow and death will flee from the world in
general. OV147:1; R4987:3, R5135:5, R2544:1; CR376:3
Ignorance, superstition, darkness and sin will be scattered.
OV380:6; R5008:1, R4988:4, R4987:3, R5135:6
The final result will be that there shall be no more sighing, no
more crying, no more dying. R5654:4; OV47:1
Refreshment and life--mental, moral and physical--upon the
world of mankind. R2834:1
Blessing and healing the sick and dying, but redeemed, world.
A322
Illuminating the whole earth with the knowledge of the glory
of the Father, which will result in the healing and blessing of
all the families of the earth. Q822:1
Completely scattering darkness, superstition and error.
HG544:1
In his wings -- His beams. R4557:1; SM55:T
Its beams of grace and truth. OV205:4
"The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light."
(Isa. 9:2) R3686:1
And ye -- The righteous. R2544:1
Shall go forth -- In the springtime of the Millennial age.
R2544:1
"All that are in their graves shall hear the voice of the Son of
God and come forth." (John 5:25) A210
And grow up -- Grow spiritually fat. R2544:1
As calves -- The righteous. R592:6
Of the stall -- During the wintertime of the reign of sin.
R2544:1
Malachi 4:3
Tread down -- As ashes. R2544:1

Indicating the completeness of the victory of righteousness
over sin. R2544:1
The wicked -- Sin and the workers of iniquity--a strong
figure of sin's complete defeat. R2544:1
Malachi 4:4
Remember ye -- Whoever has ears to hear. R2542:3

The law of Moses -- Typifying the law of love. R2544:1
The man Christ Jesus, by full obedience to the Law covenant,
superseded Moses as the Lawgiver, of whom Moses said: "A
prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you like unto
me. Him shall ye hear in all things." (Acts 3:22) R1725:4,
R5046:6 "The Law was given by Moses, but grace and truth
came by Jesus Christ." (John 1:17) R1725:4, R5046:5
Malachi 4:5
Send you Elijah -- The Christ in the flesh, Head and

Body. B254; OV323:2; R557:1, R968:5, R5741:3
The name signifying "God (mighty one) of Jehovah" or "My
God is Jehovah," a fit name for the Lord's Anointed, whose
work will be to restore all things. B265
John the Baptist fulfilled this prediction so far as fleshly
Israel was concerned. R2544:4, R556:6; OV323:1; B251,
B253
John the Baptist stood for a multitudinous Elijah as Jesus
stood for a multitudinous Christ. R557:1
Though John came in the spirit and power of Elias (Luke
1:17) and would have fully answered as his antitype if he had
been received, yet he was not the Elias, the Great Prophet,
referred to by Malachi. R1687:6; Q772:4; OV322:3; B253
There is some measure of likeness between John and the true
antitypical Elijah: both fail to establish unity and harmony
between man and God, and both fail to do a mediatorial work
except for a few; the masses are not prepared by their
message and, as a consequence, there is a time of trouble such
as they had never previously had. OV323:1; B250, B256
It was not prophesied that Elijah would have success.
OV323:3,1
Indirectly, Elijah is shown in the New Testament to have been
a type of the Gospel Church--his experiences typifying our
experiences. OV326:1
The antitypical Elijah, beginning with Jesus in the flesh, has
been coming and giving his message to the world for more
than eighteen centuries. R5771:3
As Melchizedek represented the Church in glory, so Elijah
represented the Church in the flesh. R4757:2
Before the coming -- The coming of Elijah must precede
the Day of the Lord; but his work belongs to that day.
HG68:3
It is important to show that Elijah has come before the return
of the Lord. B250
The work in which the Church is now engaged is preliminary
to its future work, so far as the reforming of the world is
concerned. B252
Day of the LORD -- Which began in 1874 AD, and will
end with the complete overthrow of worldly and Satanic
dominion in the earth and the full investiture of Christ Jesus
and his saints with power and dominion. B250
Malachi 4:6
He shall turn -- Endeavor to bring about harmony,

reconciliation and fellowship between God and his people.
OV323:2
Exhorting and seeking to bring the nominal system into
Though foretelling failure, knowing that the effort would
react favorably upon ourselves, his commission to us is to try
to convert the world. B252
In its kingly office, the Church shall effect for the world what
it fails to do as the Elijah teacher. B252
The heart -- Sentiment. R2760:5
To the children -- To childlikeness. B249
And the heart -- Would seem to mean the establishment in
the earth of a spirit of reciprocal love. R2544:4
Of the children -- Of those who have been converted to a
child-like attitude. B249
To their fathers -- To harmony with the faithful patriarchs
and prophets. B249; R557:4
The world, whom Israel typified, coming into harmony with
God. R557:4
Lest -- Testing the people, whether they will receive the
King in peace and joy. R2839:1
A conditional statement--if he succeeds, the earth will not be
smitten; but if he succeeds not, the curse will come. R557:4
It was not prophesied that Elijah would have success.
OV323:3
Other scriptures clearly indicate that no such reform will
occur, and that the "curse" or trouble will surely come.
R2760:5; OV323:3
The antitypical Elijah, the Church in the flesh, will fail to
establish righteousness and love on the earth, fail to bring
about reconciliation. OV324:2; C129
If the world had heeded, the Kingdom of Messiah on the spirit
plane would have been eventually ushered in without any
great time of trouble. R5741:5, R2544:4
Smite the earth -- The world has not heeded, hence the
smiting of the earth with a curse is the only way by which
Messiah's Kingdom can be ushered in. R5741:5, R2839:4
With a curse -- The great time of trouble. B250;
OV323:3; R4757:3, R5741:5, R2839:4
When John the Baptist failed to turn Israel to repentance and
they crucified the Lord. Hence the curse, or time of trouble,
came upon that nation, destroying it in AD 69-70, R2544:4,
R1537:6
But it shall not be utterly cursed and forever destroyed
because the exalted Elijah--Christ shall put down all
opposition and then restore and bless. R557:5
That the curse, the trouble, will be effective and yield blessed
results is distinctly shown in Zeph. 3:8, 9. OV323:4
The scourging, the curse, will accomplish for mankind in
short time what the message of Elijah failed to accomplish.
OV324:T
New Testament Comments
Preface
Writings by other authors than Pastor Russell, when a part of the books he
edited, are included also in this volume. However an asterisk (*) is used
in such cases to identify the fact that they were penned by other authors.
EXPLANATION OF SYMBOLS
A-- Scripture Studies, Volume 1 -- The Divine Plan of the Ages
B-- Scripture Studies, Volume 2 -- The Time is at Hand
C-- Scripture Studies, Volume 3 -- Thy Kingdom Come
D-- Scripture Studies, Volume 4 -- The Battle of Armageddon
E-- Scripture Studies, Volume 5 -- The Atonement Between God and Man
F-- Scripture Studies, Volume 6 -- The New Creation
R-- Watch Tower Reprints
Q-- Question Book (What Pastor Russell Said)
T-- Tabernacle Shadows
JG-- Harvest Gleanings, Vol. 1
NS-- Newspaper Sermons (Harvest Gleanings, Vol. 2)
OV-- Overland Monthly (What Pastor Russell Wrote)
PD-- Photo Drama of Creation
PT-- What Pastor Russell Taught
SM-- Sermon Book
THE FOUR GOSPELS--GENERAL

In each of the four Gospels we have a historic account of the Lord's
earthly life and work, and in each the individuality of the writer
appears. Each, in his own manner and style, records those items which seem
to him most important; and, under the Lord's supervision, all together
furnish as complete an account as is necessary to establish the faith of
the Church (a) in the identity of Jesus of Nazareth with the Messiah of
the prophets; (b) in the fulfillment of the prophecies concerning him; and
(c) in the facts of his life, and the divine inspiration of all his
teachings. If the inspiration had been verbal (i.e., by word-for-word
dictation), it would not have been necessary for four men to rephrase the
same events. But it is noteworthy that while each exercised his own
individual freedom of expression, the Lord so supervised the matter that
among them nothing of importance was omitted, and that all that is needed
is faithfully recorded and is thoroughly trustworthy, as evidenced both by
the personal integrity of the writers, and also by the promise of the
influence of the holy Spirit to refresh their memories. R1525:4,5; F218
They are simply told. Unfavorable truths are not ignored. It is freely
conceded that Jesus died between two thieves; that he was betrayed by one
of his own disciples; that all forsook him and fled; that one of them even
denied him with cursing. The humble origin of the disciples is stated, yet
without parade, and in narrative form it is innocently declared that when
the Apostles Peter and John preached under the power of the holy Spirit
their learned hearers could "perceive that they were ignorant and
unlearned men." What biographies or other writings of today display as
much candor as we thus see at a glance as we open the Bible? OM11:6;
SM169:4
The world was then for a time at peace and quiet, the Roman dominion
having brought all the world under its powerful control; and as all men
were in expectation of Messiah's advent according to the Jewish prophets,
whose fame had gone out into the world, the sudden announcement of his
birth attracted wide attention, as it would not have done in less peaceful
times. The Greek language, noted by all scholars as the most nearly
perfect, exact and precise medium for human speech, had at that time been
fully developed and widely disseminated. Thus was prepared in due time the
very best medium for the communication of the Gospel. The Old Testament
had been translated into the Greek language three centuries before Christ;
and Jews had been dispersed among all peoples, carrying the Old Testament
with them and bearing witness to its prophecies of a coming Messiah. It
was a time, too, of increased intellectual activity, which was ready to
operate on this and every other question of public interest. Thus the
circumstances of the time were peculiarly adapted to the announcement of
this wonderful event--the advent of the world's Redeemer. The fullness of
time had come, and under the overruling providence of God, the conditions
were ripe. R1673, 1674
In the last analysis we must admit that the great influence which has
moulded the civilization of our day has come to us from the words and
example of "the man Christ Jesus." The great truths which he uttered have
come echoing down the centuries, speaking righteousness, peace and love,
even for our enemies. Everywhere his wonderful words of life have made an
impression, and here and there have affected the transformation of
character. R4866:5
Many and varied are the precious lessons taught by the Master during his
earthly ministry, and they never grow old. To the true disciple of Christ
they are ever new, ever fresh. Whether he taught by the seaside or on the
mountains or by the wayside, as he walked and talked with his chosen
twelve, his words of wisdom and grace come to us vibrant with meaning,
pulsating with life, full of strength and power, cheering, encouraging and
blessing our hearts. R5990:2
Regarding Higher Criticism of the gospel writers and canon of the four
books--R2816
The evangelists differ, but do not disagree. Matthew is the Jewish Gospel,
connecting the Old Testament with the New Testament, and is written to
prove the Messiahship of Christ. Mark is written to the Gentiles, and its
theme is Christ's ministry, his works. Luke applies universally to both
Jew and Gentile, and brings our Christ's humanity; while John is an
essentially spiritual Gospel, dealing wholly with the divinity of our
Lord. R1046:3*
Matthew
General
Matthew, elsewhere styled Levi, was a publican--that is to say, a
collector of taxes for the Roman government. Publicans were despised for
two reasons: (1) It was considered very disreputable to assist a foreign
government to collect taxes from one's friends--kin. (2) Many of these
publicans were rascally and took advantage of their position to make
themselves wealthy through bribes, over-collections, etc. We may be sure
that Matthew--Levi was not of the dishonest type, else he never would have
been called to association with Messiah as one of his apostles and
prospective joint-heirs with him in his kingdom. For such position the
highest degree of honesty is requisite. And if Jesus would never call a
dishonest man, neither would a dishonest man have accepted his call,
because there was nothing to be gained--neither reputation, wages nor
fraud. R4587:4
It is worthy of note that Matthew tells us of himself that he was a
publican, while none of the other evangelists make this comment, doubtless
because the occupation of a publican was considered a very dishonorable
one. Hence, for Matthew to tell us of his previous occupation may be
esteemed an evidence of his humility, and his desire not to represent
himself more honorably than was truthful. Matthew was known by the name of
Levi while he was a publican, but his name was changed when he changed his
occupation and became a member of the Lord's company. His new name,
Matthew, signifies "the gift of God." How great a change the Gospel of the
kingdom produced upon Matthew, to lead him to forsake all--the profitable
income of his occupation, leaving it to others--and to become a follower
of the despised Nazarene! The influence of the fact that our Lord would
accept a publican to be his disciple was far-reaching, and no doubt
inspired an interest in our Lord amongst the degraded and outcast classes.
We are not surprised, therefore, when we are told that many publicans and
sinners resorted to our Lord, and gave ear to his teachings. Nor did he
treat them after the manner of the scribes and Pharisees, but on the
contrary received them as the children of Abraham--as some of the lost
sheep of the house of Israel. R2260:1,2
Matthew 1
Matthew 1:1
The book -- Matthew is the Jewish Gospel, connecting the Old Testament
with the New, and is written to prove the Messiahship of Christ. R1046:3*
The son of David -- Matthew speaks of Christ as the Son of David; hence
his genealogy is complete. R1046:6*
The necessity of thoroughly establishing the pedigree was important since
of this tribe (Gen. 49:10) was to come the ruling king of Israel as well
as the promised Messiah. A42; HG532:4
But it was not necessary that he should have a human father of the Davidic
line. R453:1
Matthew 1:6
David the king -- Matthew presents Jesus as king of the Jews, Luke
presents him as a worker, and the other two gospels as a philanthropist
and as the manifestation of God. R1046:6*
Begat Solomon -- But Solomon's line was not the Messianic line. E129
Only the legal heirship came through Solomon, through his descendant
Joseph, the legal father of Jesus. R2060:4
Matthew 1:12
Jechonias begat -- That this line of genealogy is not that of Mary, our
Lord's mother according to the flesh, is conclusively shown by a
comparison of this verse with Jer. 22:30. R2060:4
Matthew 1:16
And Jacob -- The real father of Joseph, in contrast with Heli, his
father-in-law. (Luke 3:23) E129; Q791:2
Begat Joseph -- Christ's legal father; but it is not necessary for
Christ to use Joseph's genealogy. E130; Q791:2
If Jesus was a son of Joseph and Mary, he was just as much a son of Adam
as you and I; and just as much an inheritor of Adam's sin, under the death
sentence, and therefore not able to redeem himself, let alone the world.
Q363:1
Matthew traces Joseph's genealogy; for, though Jesus was not the son of
Joseph, nevertheless, being adopted by him as his son, he might, without
impropriety, inherit through him. R2555:3,6; Q791:2
Mary, of whom was born -- The principle of inherited royalty through a
mother is illustrated by the heir apparent to the throne of England-- the
Prince of Wales, an heir, not of his father, but of his mother, the
present queen. R453:1
Matthew 1:17
Fourteen generations -- Greek, genea, as in "This generation shall not

pass." (Matt. 24:34) D603
The difference in the number of generations from David to Christ--27 in
Matthew, 42 in Luke--need not be considered as remarkable. It would be
remarkable had they been the same. Q791:2,1
Matthew 1:18
Before they came together -- Mary was a sharer with Joseph when Jesus
was born, though not when he was conceived; hence the genealogy of Joseph,
the son of Solomon the son of David. R453:2
The knowledge of these circumstances was the evident cause of his
kinsfolk's sneer at him, "We be not born of fornication." (John 8:41)
R2425:1
With child -- If we can have a perfect life germ, we can have a perfect
child from an imperfect mother. R4964:1
Matthew 1:20
Of the Holy Ghost -- Holy Spirit. His life came not from an earthly
father, but from his heavenly Father. R4964:2
Not the seed of man, hence his very nature was perfect, holy, unlike our
nature. R84:3*
Matthew 1:21
His name JESUS -- Meaning "Savior" or "Jehovah's salvation."

R3687:6, 5335:3
In olden times, the name stood for the character. OV423:4
The Greek form for Joshua, signifying Savior. In the Syriac, Savior
signifies life-giver. He has not yet become the life-giver or king. R4534:6
Signifying Savior or Liberator. Hence, only those who receive him as such
are given liberty to become sons of God--none else. R1006:1
The entire work of our Lord Jesus is summed up in the meaning of the name,
Jesus. R3687:6
Our Lord was publicly recognized as Savior as a babe; but it was only when
he had fully completed that sacrifice at Calvary that he had the full
right, and became owner, or Lord. R745:1,4
Only at the conclusion of the Millennial age will the full meaning of
Savior be appreciated by the world. R4535:4
For he shall save -- The name of Jesus is nothing, except as it means a
Savior from sin and its penalty. R687:6
The Church's salvation begins now in the sense of reformation and rest in
the Lord's promises; but they are not saved actually, but "saved by hope."
(Rom. 8:24) R4535:1
His people -- The good tidings of a Savior shall be to all people (Luke
2:10,11), but the special salvation from sin and death will come only to
his people, those who believe into him. A107
All who ultimately become his people, no others. R4534:4, 3687:6, 1604:4;
SM502:2
Let us make sure that we have accepted him and are "his people." R1604:4
Such noble shining heathen lights as Aristotle, Plato, Confucius and
others are the Lord's "sheep" and "friends"--"his people" whom he came to
save from their sins. (John 10:16; 15:13,14) R1180:3, 1178:3
From their sins -- From all the mental, moral and physical degradation
which came through father Adam's disobedience. R4702:4; A107
And from the penalty of their sins, death--which includes degradation,
mental, moral and physical. R1604:4
Matthew 1:22
That it might be fulfilled -- Matthew's characteristic introduction to a

quotation. Mark uses "as it is written." John has "as said Esaias," and
Luke seldom makes any introductory references. R1047:1*
Quoting Isa. 7:14 and partially fulfilled at that time, as a type, with
the prophet representing Jehovah, the prophetess representing the virgin
Mary, and their child representing Jesus. R436:2,4
Matthew 1:23
Virgin shall be with child -- Showing that it was not the child of
Joseph, but specially begotten by divine power. R4964:1
The narrative of Jesus' miraculous conception has the best and oldest
Greek manuscripts to support it--the Sinaitic and the Vatican; the
Alexandrian contains it in Luke, though in Matthew it is missing--not
omitted. R434:4
Zoroaster taught that in the latter days a pure virgin should conceive
and, at his birth, a star would appear with undiminished luster, even at
midday. R4098:4*, 1674:6
Call his name Emmanuel -- Must we set aside this prophecy because the
child was called Jesus? Many names and many offices are his. His name has
been called Immanuel (God with us). The church in general has recognized
him by that name for 1800 years. R436:4
God with us -- "God was manifest in the flesh." (1 Tim. 3:16) R27:2*
Matthew 1:25
Her firstborn son -- The birth of Jesus was a gift of love divine.
R5135:2
Implying that she brought forth other sons--his brothers and sisters (Mark
6:3)--afterward; a contradiction of the Catholic doctrine that Mary is
"ever a virgin." R560:2*
Matthew 2
Matthew 2:1
When Jesus was born -- For the suffering of death; the first step in the
divine plan for our salvation. R1603:6
About October 1, BC 2; 33-1/2 years prior to his death in April AD 33. B60
Herod -- Of the house of Esau, an Edomite. R4956:2
There came wise men -- Magi, sages, philosophers. R1674:3
According to tradition, three in number. R3702:3, 4098:4
When we remember that Daniel was at one time a prince in Persia, it is
easy to see how Daniel's prophecy respecting Messiah's birth would be
handed down, and well known to the disciples of Zoroaster. R3702:3 The
Nestorians say that Zoroaster was a pupil of Jeremiah. R3703:3
We are not informed whether or not these were Hebrews; but we consider it
probable that they were part of the twelve tribes scattered abroad
"waiting for the consolation of Israel." (Acts 26:7; Luke 2:25) R4098:3
Not only wise men, but reverential men, full of faith. R3703:3
Although heathen, not of Israel, they were good men. R3703:3
Thirty years before our Lord was anointed as the Messiah. B247
Even the Gentile world was in expectation of the coming Messiah. (Luke
3:15) R1674:3; B21; C85
Typifying the Millerite movement in 1844 AD. B247, 241; C85
Those in full harmony with God were not left in ignorance of so important
an event. B21
Astrologers, rather than astronomers, affecting to read in the stars the
history of nations and individuals. R3703:1
The term originally belonged to a class of priests among the Medes and
Persians who constituted the king's privy council and who cultivated
astrology, medicine, occult and natural science. R1674:3
From the east -- Supposedly Persia. R4534:3, 3702:2, 1674:3
In the Far East, the Chinese and Japanese and other nations have cherished
a very ancient tradition that God would descend to the earth in visible
form to enlighten men and to redeem them from their sins. R1674:3
Today even the Mohammedans and the Brahmins of the East are waiting for
Messiah and the Golden Age, seeking evidences. Contrast this with the
unbelief of the prominent ministers of "Christendom." R4956:5
To Jerusalem -- Apparently the star's leading discontinued when they
reached Judea. R4534:3, 4098:6
The Lord may have given them additional explanation of the matter, even as
he subsequently warned them in a dream. R3703:1
Matthew 2:2
King of the Jews -- Tacitus, Suetonius, Josephus, Virgil, Confucius and

Zoroaster all bear testimony that there prevailed throughout the entire
East at this time an intense conviction, derived from the prophecies, that
about this time a child from heaven would be born in Judea, gain dominion
over the whole world, establish the Golden Age and take away sin. R4098:4,
3703:2
He was born King of the Jews, but that work was still future--at his
second coming when he appears in glory and becomes King of Israel--on the
spirit plane. R4534:6, 4956:5, 1675:1
Have seen his star -- God made some astrological sign which the wise men
understood and reverently followed. R4534:4
Because they had no special revelation from God, the nobler minds among
the other nations gave special study to the starry heavens along the lines
of astronomy or astrology. R4534:2
Thus, kindly, God condescends to human ignorance and weakness. R1675:1
It is not a rare occasion for stars to suddenly blaze up, and then
suddenly fade in a year or two. Such a star was observed in 1901. We think
this was different, however. R3703:2
We have the assurance that there was a truth connected with the
manifestation of a special peculiar star, but we have "the more sure word
of prophecy." (2 Pet. 1:9) R3703:1
Come to worship him -- Showing their reverence to the mighty God of
Israel, their faith in the divinely inspired prophecies, and their zeal as
truth-seekers and their humility to inquire of the God of another nation.
R1675:1
Matthew 2:3
Herod the king -- Although called King of the Jews, Herod was the
representative of their conquerors, the Romans. R4098:5
An Edomite, who had built a temple grander than Solomon's. R4956:2
He was troubled -- By the suggestion that his dynasty might be
overthrown. R4956:2, 4098:5
With jealousy on his own behalf, and on behalf of the Roman Empire. R3702:6
Similarly, those who are now in influence and power are troubled at the
prospect of a change in government which their own wise men announce as
imminent. R4966:2, 4534:3, 4099:1
Any announcement today that Messiah's Kingdom is nigh meets with
resentment. R4534:3, 4956:2
And all Jerusalem -- All under Herod's political influence. R4098:5
Evidently they were in a very self-satisfied condition, experiencing great
prosperity, and had ceased to specially long and pray for Messiah. R4956:2
Matthew 2:4
When he had gathered -- Evidently, knowing of the Jewish tradition

respecting Messiah, he sent for those who were learned in the Scriptures.
R4098:5
Priests and scribes -- Although they answered correctly, they showed no
enthusiasm in quoting the prophecies of Messiah's birth. R4956:3
Matthew 2:5
They said unto him -- Showing their faith, even though it was an
irreverent and selfishly jealous faith; indirect evidence of the esteem
which the Hebrew Scriptures commanded. R1675:2
In Bethlehem -- Only six miles distant. R3703:2
For thus it is written -- Though the scribes and chief priests
understood his birthplace from Micah 5:2, they could not see that, as the
Judge of Israel, he would be smitten with "a rod upon the cheek." (Mic.
5:1) R436:1
Matthew 2:8
Bring me word again -- Let the civil government, if it chooses, fight

down everything associated with the new dispensation; the religious
elements remain quite indifferent. R4956:5
That I may come -- Herod's selfish faith was in strong contrast with the
reverent and devotional faith of the wise men. R1675:4
Worship him also -- The crafty Herod feigned reverence, but only that he
might destroy the child. R4534:3,5
Matthew 2:9
They departed -- None of the priests and teachers of the day followed
them to Bethlehem to find the newborn king of the Jews. They had become
Higher Critics and no longer believed the prophets. They had less faith in
them than had Herod. R4956:3
And, lo, the star -- Probably a bright, electrical, luminous spot
travelling near the earth. R3703:2
Thus, even in his infancy, this light that was to lighten the Gentiles
began to shine into some waiting and devout Gentile hearts. R1675:5
Near Rachel's tomb, by Bethlehem, is a cistern where tradition says the
star appeared to the wise men the second time to guide them to Bethlehem
and the manger. R1401:2 Till it came -- Greek, elthon, it ceased to go.
Its arrival was accomplished; it stood. R149:5*
Stood over -- Apparently indicating the very house in which they found
the newborn king. R4098:6
Matthew 2:11
And fell down -- Prostrated themselves, physically expressing their

reverence. R3703:4
And worshipped him -- By prostrating themselves; in their hearts and
with their tongues, by giving expression to their rejoicing; and by
opening their treasure boxes to him. R3703:4
The humble surroundings did not alter the reverent condition of their
hearts. R4534:5, 3703:4
Unto him gifts -- Let us be true wise men and present to him our
treasures--all that we have and are--our hearts. R4534:6, 1604:4
Gold -- Representing obedience and consecration. R4534:5, 3703:4,5
Our earthly substance. R3703:5
And frankincense -- Representing praise, devotion, heart adoration,
appreciation, gratitude. R4534:6, 3703:4,5
And myrrh -- Representing submission, a willingness for service, to the
extent of bitterness and suffering. R4534:6, 3703:4,5
Have we shown a joy to honor the King even to the extent of suffering with
him? R3703:5
Matthew 2:13
Angel of the Lord -- "Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth
to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation." (Heb. 1:14) R1681:3
Flee into Egypt -- We should be on the lookout for divine deliverance
and the opening of a way of escape from things too difficult for us to
endure. F508
God did not miraculously interfere with Herod's plans. The lease of power
granted to the kingdoms of this world has not yet expired. R1681:6
Matthew 2:14
When he arose -- The faith and prompt obedience of Joseph and Mary to
the warning and counsel of the angel of the Lord is notable. They did not
hesitate or question, but immediately acted. R1681:3
Matthew 2:15
Death of Herod -- Unreliably and variously dated by scholars as 4 BC, 2

AD, 7 AD; therefore not reliable evidence in establishing the date of
Jesus' birth. B56, 57
By the prophet -- This prophecy has three fulfillments: the deliverance
of Israel in the days of Pharaoh; the return of the infant Jesus to the
land of his birth; and The Christ being called out of the world (Egypt).
R1681:6, 436:1; C316
Out of Egypt -- Type of the world. C316
I called my Son -- To the higher, divine nature. C316
Likewise his joint-heirs are called out of Egypt. "They are not of this
world even as I am not of this world." (John 17:16) C316
Matthew 2:16
Slew all the children -- Seeking to destroy Christ that thus the kingdom
of Israel might be preserved to his own family--as it was through his six
successors. R4534:3
Matthew 2:18
Lamentation and weeping -- But another note of the long wail of distress
of the groaning creation which will be permitted for wise and benevolent
ends until the "times of restitution." R1682:4
Rachel -- Rachel was the mother of two of the tribes, Joseph and
Benjamin, which tribes occupied Palestine at the time of the first advent.
R436:1
They are not -- Not in hell or purgatory; they have ceased to exist.
CR430:2; R822:5
Matthew 2:20
Young child's life -- Greek, psuche, soul, being. E335
Matthew 2:22
Archelaus -- Herod's son and successor, who even surpassed his father in
oppression, cruelty, egotism and sensuality. R1681:3
He turned aside -- Not disregarding the Lord's directions, which were to
go into the land of Israel--in any part of which they might settle. R1681:6
Matthew 2:23
Called Nazareth -- A despised place, the object doubtless being to bring

the truth into disrepute; as Second Adventism has brought the time
features into disrepute. B29
Called a Nazarene -- Although born in Bethlehem, he was reared in
Nazareth, "that he might be called a Nazarene"--that he might not have the
honor of the "City of David," but the odium of "a mean city." R4556:3
Matthew 3
Matthew 3:1
In those days -- It was the time of the greatest missionary effort that
had ever been made by the Jews. As Jesus said, "Ye compass sea and land to
make one proselyte." (Matt. 23:15) R2236:3
John the Baptist -- Six months older than our Lord, he began his
ministry that much sooner. R3292:2
The last of the prophets, and none of them was his superior. "There hath
not arisen a greater prophet than John the Baptist." (Matt. 11:11)
R4958:2, 4543:1
John was the first one to use baptism. R5964:4
Type of the Church, especially in the harvest. R4958:5; B253
We are to be copies of God's dear Son, our Lord, and not to be copies of
John the Baptist--not to stir up strife by trying to mind other people's
business. R4978:5
Of Judea -- At the time, Judaism was in a more flourishing condition
than ever before. Idolatry in its cruder forms was unknown, and Pharisaism
was the controlling influence. R2236:3, 358:3*
Matthew 3:2
Repent ye -- Reform (Diaglott). R358:4*

"Change your minds"--(See Young's Concordance). R357:3*, 358:4*, 191:6*
This act of repentance brought them back under the blessings and favor of
their Law Covenant. R5963:4
The only ones who can claim to belong to Abraham's spiritual seed are such
as show repentance from sin, and make a full consecration to oppose sin.
R4958:6, 2245:6
Saying, in substance, Examine your life. If you are living according to a
lower standard than the best of which you are capable, you are guilty.
R5962:2
John had given them more definite instruction, and with increase of
knowledge there should be a corresponding change of mind. R358:4*
And not that they should believe on God, for he was addressing only the
believing, covenanted people, Israel. R2417:2
It was because they were not in the right condition of heart that they
were not fit to have the Kingdom which, therefore, was taken from them and
given to a new nation, a peculiar people, a royal priesthood. R2417:2
Change of mind is a necessary operation with all finite creatures, so far
as we know, because their knowledge is imperfect. R358:1*
Some had nothing to repent of and nothing to wash away by baptism. R5963:3
The words of this verse have been the message of the Christ in the flesh
down through the centuries. R4958:5, 2245:6
Kingdom of heaven -- The royal majesty of the heavens. R358:4,6*
In its embryotic state. B14
John's mission was to announce that Kingdom, but it was not his privilege
to become a member of it. R3292:1
The Lord commenced his ministry with the same announcement exactly (Matt.
4:17); and the apostles were sent forth to preach the same message. (Matt.
10:7; Luke 9:2) A273
This Kingdom was the hope of every Israelite. A273
The Jews had been waiting for that Kingdom for centuries, and John's
mission was the announcement that the fulfillment of the divine promise
was at hand. R2417:2
This message was expected to arouse all the "Israelites indeed" and point
them to Jesus the King. R4593:2, 4543:2
As the Jews were all baptized into Moses, so when Jesus took the place of
Moses, the baptism into Moses was counted as baptism into Christ for all
who accepted Jesus as the Messiah. R5963:5
Is at hand -- Has approached. R358:4,6*
The royal heir was then present, though unknown. R191:6*
In the sense that Jesus was present to make a formal tender of the Kingdom
to Abraham's natural seed. R4958:5, 4557:2
Announcing to the Jewish nation, in the beginning of the Gospel age, the
great feast of Jesus' parable in Luke 14:15-24. R1957:3
The great feast of fat things for Israel, which God has so long promised,
is ready. R2701:4
Now true in the sense in which he declared it was yet to come at that time
(John 18:36,37)--"in power and great glory." B14
Matthew 3:3
The voice of one -- Not "the Word." R2409:2

John the Baptist was an antitype of Elijah. R3292:6
Directly announcing the Savior. R4543:1
God chose a strong, rugged character to bear his message. R4543:3
In the wilderness -- John's peculiar raiment and food enabled him to be
free of sectarian bondage, and gave him freedom of utterance. R4543:3
His wilderness experiences specially qualified him. R4543:3
The Church has cried "in the wilderness" in the sense that she has been
alienated and separated from the world. R4958:6
Prepare ye -- John's work and baptism were merely preparatory. R4543:4
The way of the Lord -- To arouse the people of Israel to the fact that
Messiah had come. R4543:2
Make his paths straight -- As a forerunner was sent to fleshly Israel to
prepare them for the first advent, so a greater forerunner would precede
the second advent. R2563:4
This greater Elijah will be equally unsuccessful with that of the lesser
antitype of Elijah, John the Baptist. The Church in the flesh has not
succeeded in making straight the paths of the Lord for a triumphal entry
to his Kingdom on earth. R2563:5
Messiah's Kingdom will straighten every crooked path, level up the path of
righteousness, and make of it "a highway." (Isa. 35:8) R2563:5
By the end of the Millennial age this great messenger will have prepared
all the arrangements, all the affairs, for the establishment of the
everlasting reign of the Kingdom. R3683:4
Matthew 3:4
Raiment of camel's hair -- His peculiar raiment and food enabled him to
be independent of all religious sects and parties, gave him a freedom of
utterance and made his message more striking to the minds of the people.
R4543:3
We do not advocate the example of John in respect to food and raiment, but
we believe a good lesson may be drawn from his course--a simplicity of
diet and wardrobe. R3292:2
And wild honey -- John's course indicated that his entire life was
devoted to the special service of the Lord; that he had nothing, wanted
nothing and needed nothing. R3712:3, 3292:2
Matthew 3:5
Jerusalem, and all Judea -- The baptism of John was not appropriate to
any but Jews. Gentiles could not repent or come back into harmony with
Moses' Law because Gentiles were never under the Law of Moses. HG254:5;
PD56/69; NS48:4, 49:6
He did not go to sinners in the ordinary sense of that term, those living
outside the pale of divine influence; but he went to the sinner class, the
renegade class, of the Jews, "publicans and sinners." HG254:3
Matthew 3:6
Baptized -- The Jews did not practice baptism. The whole nation was
recognized as baptized into Moses in the sea and in the cloud. (1 Cor.
10:1,2) HG254:3
Symbol of washing, cleansing, or reformation from sin. SM643:3
John's was a special baptism for a special purpose, and not a matter of
getting outsiders in, for he did not assume to get anyone in. Q32:3
Not into Christ. They were already baptized into Moses. But, Repent, be
baptized, and wash away your sins. Q33:5
Not the "Israelites indeed," but those who conceded that they had been
living in open sin. HG254:5
John's baptism was not Christian baptism, though it would amount to
Christian baptism for the Jews who observed it; they would thus be
transferred into Christ after Pentecost. R5964:6
"The baptism of John" was to the Jews only and was wholly different from
the baptism appointed for those called from amongst the Gentiles. R2417:3
An acknowledgment that you repent of sins, and you will thus wash away
your sins. R5963:1, 4543:2, 3292:3
We have no reason to think that any of the disciples except Paul
participated in that baptism, because they were not of the class that were
called sinners at that time. Q34:T
Water baptism could not remit sin, but it restored the sinner to full
harmony with God's arrangement for Israel. R5963:4
Baptism for the remission of sins is no longer effective for the Jews
because their opportunity is closed, the way by which they might have a
preference over the Gentiles. R5963:6
Not an actual cleansing from guilt. Only the blood of Jesus could actually
take away sin. R5963:1
We don't know if baptism will be practiced in the new dispensation. It may
be introduced as a symbol of washing away sin, or as a symbol of
The very word signifies to immerse, as is fully admitted by the best
exegetes--Catholic, Protestant, English and German. (Supported with 15
quotes.) NS56:3-6
Of him -- Many of them who received Jesus had previously received John.
R3292:4
Confessing their sins -- Thereby coming again into harmony with Moses,
type of Christ, into whom they had all once been baptized. F432; R5963:4;
Q33:4
Recognized sin. NS49:5
What sins? All things against the Mosaic covenant, against the law
covenant, all the outward transgressions they had committed that they
could have avoided. Q33:5, 34:2
The people washed away their own sins, typically. John the Baptist did not
wash them away. R5963:1
Matthew 3:7
Pharisees -- Today a synonym of hypocrite and impostor; but, at the

time, the professedly most pious class in Israel, professing consecration,
studying the Law diligently, zealous in prayer and the propagation of the
Jewish religion. R2236:3
Sadducees -- Practically unbelievers; of the wealthier, more respectable
class. R4986:3
Professed holiness of life, though denying much of the Scripture;
practically the "higher critics" in religious matters among the Jews of
that city. R2236:3
To his baptism -- John would not baptize these until they showed by
outward conduct a change of life, a change of heart, and not merely a
changed profession. R3292:5
Generation -- Greek, Gennema, race. D603
Of vipers -- By some prophetic power John was enabled to read their
hearts in a manner which would be improper for us to do. R3292:5
Thus implying that their religion was one of outward forms and ceremony
merely, and not of the heart; similarly today, many have "a form of
godliness" and outward devotion to Sectarianism and its propagation.
R2236:3
Their repentance would not be considered genuine without certain proofs.
R4543:4, 2236:3
Who hath warned you -- Exercising the same godly boldness as Elijah in
denouncing popular and respected sin and sinners. R556:6
Wrath to come -- Not torments after death; but a wrath of God about to
come upon that nation because of its hypocritical formalism and failure to
live up to the light and privileges it enjoyed. R2236:6
"Wrath to the uttermost" (1 Thess. 2:16) which came upon the Jewish nation
in the end of the Jewish age. R3292:5, 2301:3,4
Matthew 3:9
Think not to say -- Although God had elected or chosen them as a people
in the past, that was no proof that they would always be the people of his
special favor. R1140:3
Within yourselves -- As nominal Christendom says to itself. R2564:3
Arrogant, haughty and self-confident. R4782:1
We have Abraham -- They were his natural children without having his
faith. R3292:5, 2236:6
To our father -- We are nominally God's people. R2564:3
Concluding that God must keep his promise to Abraham and that they, being
his children, must sooner or later be the Kingdom to bless the world.
R4782:1, 2236:6, 1217:4
God is able -- Also, thus able to resurrect, or create again, that which
was once destroyed. R1018:1*
Of these stones -- Of some that you consider as far beneath you as the
stones under your feet. R2564:3
As a matter of fact, after the wheat had been separated from the chaff of
that nation, the Lord sought others from among the Gentiles to complete
the elect number of Israelites indeed, the true seed of Abraham. R2245:6,
2236:6, 1795:1
Raise up children -- Neither will God destroy the wills of the unwilling
and make them mere machines; rather than have such children, he could and
would create men out of stone. R1176:3
Matthew 3:10
And now also -- A type of the end of the Gospel age. R2237:5,6
The axe -- Of divine judgment. R2237:1
The same axe of Gospel requirement, reckoning the intention for the act
(see Matt. 5:22-28), still lies at the root of the trees--there must be an
utter destruction of the flesh. R518:3*
Is laid to the root -- Pruning would no longer do. R4958:6, 731:4
True again today. It is no longer a question of being a citizen of favored
Christendom, nor of being a member of its various sects; but it is an
individual test. R2237:5
Every tree -- It would thenceforth be an individual matter and not a
national question as to who shall be the children of Abraham in whom would
be found the good fruitage of righteousness. R2237:1
Good fruit -- The fruitage of righteousness. R2237:4
Only such as bore good fruit in their characters and lives would any
longer be recognized of the Lord as Israelites and identified with the
Kingdom. R4543:4
These would be spared of the Lord and transplanted into the more favorable
conditions of the Gospel dispensation. R2237:1
Is hewn down -- Nominal fleshly Israel was thus cast off from divine
favor. R3292:5
Cast into the fire -- The time of trouble in AD 69-70. R3292:5, 4958:6,
4543:4, 2237:1, 376:3; B233,242
Matthew 3:11
I indeed baptize you -- The three baptisms of this verse (of water, of
Spirit and of fire) correspond to the three activities of verse 12:
separation of wheat and chaff, gathering of wheat, and burning of chaff.
R198:4*
Unto repentance -- See comments on Matt. 3:6.
He that cometh after me -- John recognized that his work was merely a
reformatory and preparatory work, and that the one who was to do the
testing was mightier than himself--the Messiah. R2237:1
When John had announced Jesus as the Messiah, his work soon began to wane;
so the work of the John class closes with the announcement that the
Kingdom of Heaven is at hand and the King is present. R968:5
Not worthy to bear -- As his most menial servant. R4543:5
He shall baptize you -- Messiah's baptism was to be of two parts: one
upon the faithful and the other upon the unfaithful. R4543:5
With the Holy Ghost -- At Pentecost, upon the Israelites indeed.
R5443:2, 4959:4, 2237:2; B233; E290
And with fire -- The fire of God's anger, wrath to the uttermost. F445;
NS21:2, 626:4
The fire of trouble upon all others during the 37 years following their
rejection of Messiah. B233
Culminating in the destruction of the Jewish polity in the year AD 70.
E290; R4959:4, 4543:5, 2237:2
The baptism of fire is not a blessing, nor is it intelligently that
Christian people sometimes pray for it. F445
As there was a baptism of fire in the end of the Jewish age upon the chaff
of that nation, so there will be, in the end of this age, upon the tare
class of Christendom. F445
Not to be confused with the fire-likeness of the tongues on the Day of
Pentecost. R2820:4
Matthew 3:12
Whose fan is in his hand -- As a winnower, he separated the wheat of the

Jewish people from the chaff. R3292:5, 162:3
Throughly -- In order that every grain of wheat might be found and
separated from the chaff. R4543:5
Purge his floor -- Cleanse his threshing floor. B260,261; R175:3
The purification of the sons of Levi (Mal. 3:3); the household of faith.
R4708:6, 4709:1
Gather his wheat -- The true Israelites indeed. B233; C149; R2237:2
A small proportion of the whole. B205; R4408:3
The harvesting of the Jewish age began with our Lord's first advent and
ended forty years later at the destruction of Jerusalem. NS626:3
One of the three great periods of separation revealed in God's Word--chaff
from wheat, tares from wheat (Matt. 13:37,43), and sheep from the goats.
(Matt. 25:31) R34:2*
Into the garner -- The Christian Church. R5443:2, 4543:5, 3292:5; B233;
C149
The Gospel dispensation. R162:3
By begetting them of the holy Spirit at Pentecost and onward. R4959:4
He will -- Not only the work of separation and gathering of the wheat
are under the supervision of Christ, but also the burning of the chaff.
R115:3*
Burn up the chaff -- The balance of the nation, the refuse. A229; B233;
C149; R2237:2, 1316:6
As the closing of the Jewish age included the burning of the chaff, so the
closing of the Gospel age includes the burning of the tares. (Matt. 13:40)
R98:4*
As soon as all of the worthy have been selected out. R3433:6
The Jewish harvest is spoken of as being a separation of wheat from chaff,
while the harvest of this age is designated a separation of wheat from
tares. (Matt. 13:30) R2237:6
Indicating the compactness of that people, as contrasted with the wheat
and tares, indicating the scattered and confused condition of the present
harvest. R1743:3
Unquenchable -- The Jews were powerless to avert the catastrophe. A229;
R2237:2
In the sense that it was the divine intention that the nation should be
consumed, and it was not in the power of the ablest of the statesmen and
rulers to prevent this. R4543:5
"Wrath is come upon this people to the uttermost." (1 Thess. 2:16)
R4959:4, 4543:5; F445
Fire -- Not literal, but symbolic fire. C149; R5363:3
The great fire of religious and political contention which destroyed the
Jewish nation. B233; C148; R5443:2, 4543:5, 175:3
Confusion, anarchy and the Roman legions. R3292:6
Matthew 3:13
Then cometh Jesus -- He was thirty years of age, the legal age at which
a priest could offer sacrifice. R4544:2, 3297:1, 2565:1, 2417:1, 2237:3;
A179; B66
To Jordan -- Meaning "judged down," "condemned"; typifying the curse,
the sentence against our race, which has rested for 6000 years. R3086:4
Unto John -- His second-cousin. R2565:1
Baptism is valid even though the baptizer be a believer not of the Kingdom
or Church class. R1541:4
To be baptized -- Symbolizing his death. CR460:1
This was a cross, a humiliation; for the masses, as well as John, thought
of it as a washing away of sin instead of a symbol of death. SM643:3
Matthew 3:14
John forbad him -- Because he knew nothing of the baptism which is unto
death. R3296:6
Asserting that, of the two, he himself, rather than Jesus, needed that
baptism. R3296:3
Our Lord Jesus was holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners (Heb.
7:26); hence it would have been wrong for him to have been baptized for
the remission of sins--John's only understanding of baptism. R2565:5,
4644:2, 2417:5, 2237:3, 1917:1; HG261:6; NS51:4
He knew Jesus well from infancy to manhood; as cousins they doubtless had
discussed various features of divine law, and were of one heart as
respects service to the Lord. R2417:1
I have need -- We have no record that John was ever immersed himself;
nor would we need to have, since he was evidently a godly man, living up
to the standard of the Law Covenant to the best of his ability. R2417:5
If either of the two needed to confess sin and profess a washing away of
sin, it would be John himself rather than the Master. HG254:5; Q34:T, 35:6
To be baptized of thee -- But Jesus did not baptize John and he did not
explain to John the philosophy of it all. Q32:3
Matthew 3:15
Suffer it to be so -- Thus intimating that he was not following John's

baptism to wash away sins, but that His baptism had another special
meaning. PD57/69; R4544:2; Q35:6, 32:3 "I have a baptism to be baptized
with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished." (Luke 12:50)
R2417:6; PD57/69; NS51:6
He did not dispute John's argument, but insisted upon being baptized.
HG261:6
Jesus did not stop to argue the matter with John because John could not
have understood; it was not due time for John to understand; he was not of
those begotten of the holy Spirit. Q35:6
It was not then due time to explain Christian baptism because the new
baptism belonged to the new dispensation which did not begin until
Pentecost. R2565:2
Thus it becometh us -- I have a reason for so desiring it, and it is
proper that I should do it in the fulfillment of certain things which I
recognize to be right. R3296:6, R2417:5
It behooved him, who was the prospective Head of the prospective Body, to
set an example that we, coming after, might follow in his steps. NS51:5
The Christ, Head and Body. R1917:4
Fulfil all righteousness -- Righteousness obtained through Jesus only.
PT390:3*
The righteousness of God's law which could by no means clear the guilty
without a satisfaction of the claims of justice by the sacrifice of a life
for a life, which he was about to fulfill by the sacrifice of himself.
R1917:1
It is merely a question of knowledge and obedience, both as respects the
real baptism of the will, and also respecting the outward, symbolic
baptism in water. R2167:1
This act was doubtless foreshadowed by the high priest washing himself
with water and putting on the holy linen garments (Lev. 16:4). Clean linen
is the symbol of righteousness. (Rev. 19:8) R157:4*
The satisfaction of mind and peace of heart that we, like our Lord, have
endeavored to "fulfill all righteousness" contributes to the peace of God
that passeth all understanding in our hearts. NS56:1
Matthew 3:16
And Jesus -- At 30 years of age, manhood according to the Law, the right
time to consecrate himself as a man. A179
When he was baptized -- Symbolizing the full consecration of his life,
even unto death. He was laying down a foundation for a new order of
things. Q32:3; A197
He sacrificed all the blessings and favors that were his under the Law
Covenant. R5090:1
Our Lord's baptism was more than John's baptism. R3296:3
Our Lord's baptism in water was not his real baptism, but merely a symbol
or picture of it. His real baptism was unto death, and his real raising up
was his resurrection. HG262:2; NS51:5
Not as a sinner, but as a sin-offering. R4544:2
A new baptism, not for sinners, but exclusively for holy ones; not
symbolic of cleansing from sin, but symbolic of a sacrificial death for
the sins of others. R2565:2
As Jesus' baptism signified his death sacrificially for sins, so the
baptism of Christians symbolizes their participation with the Lord in his
sacrifice. R2565:4
Symbolizing the laying down, burial, of "the man Christ Jesus, a ransom
for all" (1 Tim. 2:5,6). In the dying he represented the sacrificial
bullock of the Jewish Atonement Day. HG262:1; Q183:T
Not into the Church of Christ, for there was no Church of Christ as yet,
not until Pentecost; but the beginning of a new institution in every sense
of the word. HG261:6
It was a symbol, not a type. Q35:2
Scriptures tell us it is pleasing in God's sight that we symbolize our
consecration by water immersion as Jesus symbolized his by water
immersion. So we will follow his example. Q32:3, 33:T
Out of the water -- His raising up from the water symbolized his
resurrection from death on the third day after Calvary. In the rising from
the water, he represented the antitypical High Priest. HG262:1; Q183:T
The heavens -- The word heavens in both the Greek and Hebrew signifies
"higher things." In this case, spiritual truths, the higher things that he
had not seen before. Q183:T
Opened unto him -- Connecting his experiences as a man with his prehuman
experiences with the Father. R5157:5, 5065:1, 2565:5
The higher, the spiritual things, the heavenly things, were opened unto
him. R5128:5, 5847:1, 5157:5; OV159:1; CR402:5; Q183:T; PD57/69
Things, which as a natural man he could not receive, revealing the divine
purpose respecting himself. R4968:2, 4970:1, 5054:2, 5157:5, 3297:2; Q547:4
Literally, rent asunder. R4970:1
Jesus became conscious of some great change in his own condition and in
his relationship to the Father and to spiritual things. R5157:5
This enlightenment came by the receiving of the holy Spirit. PD57/69
That very moment marked the time of our Lord's spirit begetting, and we
believe that he then received special knowledge of heavenly things.
R5157:5, 4544:2 No matter how perfect a man may be he cannot receive
spiritual things. "The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit
of God." (1 Cor. 2:14) R5157:5, 4544:3
With us, as with Jesus, the Father provides not only a clearer
appreciation of our trials and responsibilities, but also a clearer
perception of the glories which will follow to the faithful. R4970:1
All who are baptized into his death (1) receive an opening of their minds
to see heavenly things; (2) hear the voice of the Father saying they are
now beloved sons; and (3) receive the holy Spirit in their hearts, the
peace-giving, meek and gentile spirit of holiness. R2565:6
And he saw -- John alone, probably, saw the dove. E212; R5157:4, 3297:1,
3296:6, 2565:5, 2417:6
John was granted the privilege of seeing the dove and hearing the voice to
the intent that he might bear witness to the fact. R2565:5, 2417:6,
2237:4; Q35:4, 36:8
The Spirit of God -- A manifestation representing the invisible. E212
Jesus could receive the spirit without measure, whereas all imperfect
members of his Church may have a measure of the spirit only. R370:1
The human nature had to be consecrated to death before he could receive
even the pledge of the divine nature. A179
Our Lord was already dead to his own will; otherwise he would not have
gone down to John at Jordan. But God's manifestation of his acceptance of
Jesus' sacrifice apparently waited until after Jesus had performed the
symbol. Q36:8
Illustrated by the oil that anointed the unleavened wafers of the
meat-offering. R84:3*
Like a dove -- An outward representation of God's power coming on Jesus.
CR460:2; R5291:6
Emblem of peace and purity, representing the fullness of Jehovah's spirit
of love in Jesus. E212
Possibly a stream of light which came not violently, like the lightning,
but gently, like a dove. R3296:6
A dove was a favorite figure with the Jews as an emblem of peace and
salvation. It represented fittingly the meek and quiet spirit of all those
who possess the spirit of holiness unto the Lord. R2565:5, 2237:4
Neither the voice, the opened heavens or the dove are experiences granted
to his followers; nor to be expected today. The coming of the holy Spirit
at Pentecost was signalized by an outward demonstration which serves the
entire Church. R2565:6
Lighting upon him -- Giving the earnest of his inheritance of the divine
nature. A179
Anointing him. Jesus was not the Messiah, the Christ, until this anointing
took place. T27, 37; B66
Matthew 3:17
And lo a voice -- Such a voice was heard on three different occasions:

(1) on this occasion, (2) on the Mount of Transfiguration (Mark 9:7) and
(3) at the close of our Lord's ministry (John 12:28). R2237:4
Both the voice and the descent of the holy Spirit showed the Lord to be
perfect and to have made a perfect consecration. R5080:5
My beloved Son -- Jesus was the first Son of God after Adam. R5623:5
Being begotten again to the spiritual plan and to the divine nature.
R418:3, 164:5*
Again, after his baptism unto death, the Spirit bore witness to him still
being the well-beloved Son, in raising him from death and highly exalting
him to the right hand of power. R1411:3
Jesus claimed to be the Son of God and, consequently, the Messiah. R944:4*
I am well pleased -- At his baptism our Lord was at the mark of
character which merited the promised reward of the Father. R5081:5
Because he was holy, harmless, undefiled and separate from sinners and
knew no sin. (Heb. 7:26; 1 John 3:5) R1585:5
The words, deeds and character of our Lord Jesus illustrate to us what
pleases God. R1781:4, 1273:1
Pictured in the fine flour of the meat offering, flour that had no
roughness or unevenness. R84:2*
Matthew 4
Matthew 4:1
Then -- Temptations immediately followed his baptism. This is the

experience of all who follow in his steps. R3296:3, 2566:3, 1688:1; F141
Was Jesus -- Not God, "For God cannot be tempted with evil, neither
tempteth he any man." (Jas. 1:13) R370:2
Led up -- Mark expresses it, "driven into the wilderness." (Mark 1:12)
R3297:2, 2566:1
We should never voluntarily go into temptation, but, knowing our weakness,
should seek to avoid it. R3715:6
Therefore we think that the Scripture, "Lead us not into temptation"
(Matt. 6:13) should be translated as in the Diaglott, "Abandon us not in
temptation." R3716:1
Of the Spirit -- The holy Spirit--which was now his own spirit, or mind,
or will. R3297:2
His own spirit: his own enlightened new mind. Thus it is our new mind, the
result of full consecration to the Lord, that leads us into temptations,
trials and difficulties. R3716:1, 4970:2, 5054:2, 5579:3; Q183:T
The illumination (Matt. 3:16) gave Jesus such new views respecting his
work that he was impelled to go aside to think, pray and study what his
course should be as outlined by the Law and the prophets. R4544:3, 2566:1,
2243:2
He must not even take his own previous conceptions of his work. He must
look at everything from the new standpoint of the Spirit. No wonder he
wished to be alone with God. R3297:3
That he might study the divine Word, treasured up in a perfect memory, and
now fully intelligible by the power of the Spirit. "The natural man
receiveth not the things of the spirit." (1 Cor. 2:14) R5157:6,
3297:3,2, 1688:2
Into the wilderness -- Away from every friend and acquaintance and
distracting thing. R3297:2
Instead of being taken to the mountain top of joy. F141
That in solitude he might know thoroughly the proper course for him to
take in announcing himself as Messiah to Israel and the world. R3716:3
He must not confer with flesh and blood respecting his future course, even
if there had been anyone perfect like himself with whom he might have
conferred. He must confer with the Father. R3297:3, 2566:2
To be tempted -- Along the very lines of his work--the consecration
which he had already made. R5065:5
Along the line of selfishness. R3715:3
The three temptations here recorded illustrate practically all the
temptations that came to our Lord during his ministry; and, likewise, the
temptations that come to his followers. R3297:6
The environment of the present world, and the natural and often legitimate
desires of the flesh, are the mediums through which the temptations are
presented. R1689:5
Temptation does not imply sin. Our Lord was tempted "without sin"; so may
his brethren be if they follow his example. Sin only comes through
yielding to temptation. R2568:5, 1802:5*, 1689:5
"In all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin" (Heb. 4:15); not
referring to ordinary temptation, but trials and temptations as a new
creature. R3715:6, 3297:6, 2566:3, 2243:5, 1689:5; E110; Q706:2
There is a difference between temptations which the Father considers
proper and the temptations which come of the Adversary. R3297:5
The temptations or trials which Jehovah permits to come upon his
consecrated people are of the same kind that he permitted to come upon our
Redeemer. R4970:3, 4544:3
Since we read that God tempteth not, neither is tempted of any man (Jas.
1:13), then Jesus must not be God. R370:2
Of the devil -- Greek, diabolus. The word always appears in the singular
and undoubtedly refers to Satan. R3716:1, 3297:5, 2567:5
Whose very existence is now denied by many. F609
Satan is the Adversary in a sense that the world and our own flesh are not
our adversaries. They are not bitter nor malicious. Satan alone is the
willful, intelligent plotter and schemer. F611, 612
Matthew 4:2
Fasted forty days -- Doubtless the entire period was spent in meditation
and prayer, being led to this course by his spirit of devotion to the
Father--his anxiety to do the Father's will in the Father's way. R3716:4,
5054:2
Mark and Luke imply that he was tempted for the entire period. Both
thoughts are evidently true--he was tempted all during the 40 days, while
the three temptations narrated here occurred at the close of the 40 days.
R3716:1, 2566:3
Aided by a perfect memory, he considered the prophecies, including those
which showed he should be rejected of men and led as a lamb to the
slaughter. R3716:4,5
These 40 days were spent in meditation and prayer. He had no Bibles nor
concordances, but a perfect memory and 18 years of hearing and reading the
Law. We may safely say that he knew the entire Word of God by heart.
R3716:4, 3297:3, 1688:2
Apparently he neither ate nor slept. R4970:2, 3716:6
If it was proper for the Master to make a study of the divine plan before
beginning his work, how much more is it necessary for his followers to do
so. "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not
to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Tim. 2:15)
R3717:1, 2566:2
Afterward an hungred -- It was an appeal to one of the strongest
cravings known to human nature. R2243:4
Up to this time his perfect mind was so absorbed in his great theme, and
so perfect was he physically, that he probably neither ate nor slept.
R3716:6, 3297:3,4, 2567:5; Q184:T
While busily engaged in searching the Father's will he was not molested by
the tempter; but when he had reached a conclusion, that was the moment of
the tempter's assault. It is the same with us. R3717:5
Shipwrecked sailors have been exonerated for turning cannibals under the
stress of hunger when they have been without food much less than 40 days.
R2243:4
Matthew 4:3
When the tempter -- One who was of a higher order of being than himself,
who had not taken upon himself a bondman's form. R5084:6
Choosing the time when Jesus' overtaxed human powers sought refreshment
and recuperation. R4970:2,3, 3717:2, 3297:5; Q184:T
Came to him -- Probably not personally, but by suggestion. R3717:3,
5084:2
He said -- I remember you well from the long ago when we were in
fellowship, before my deflection. R4970:4
In approaching our Lord, Satan did not attempt to lie outright, nor to
distort the facts, but rather to put a false color on them. R5084:6
Representing himself as a friend, an angel of light. R3717:3, 4970:3
If thou be -- This demand of the tempter would seem to be a challenge to
prove himself the Son of God, to prove that he received the holy Spirit in
full power; and that, if he did not do so, his claim might be considered
fraudulent. R2243:3
Compliance meant not only the relief of his hunger, but additionally it
meant the apparent conversion of Satan, who seemingly was in a repentant
attitude. R2567:1
Be made bread -- The first temptation--the flesh. R3717:4
Use spiritual gifts to further temporal ends. E110; R4970:3, 3798:1, 3058:2
Since you have so unwisely forfeited your higher form of life, so that you
may never regain it, don't give up, but keep the life you now have. If you
die now you shall never live again, neither will you be able to liberate
mankind from death. R314:2 Illustrating our temptations to preach for
worldly applause, wealth and social positions, and to seek the healing of
our bodies which we have consecrated to death in God's service. R5965:5,
4970:6, 3798:1, 3717:6
The spiritual gift could no more be used to procure temporal comforts than
it could be sold for money to Simon. (Acts 8:18-20) R2567:2
So far from using his miraculous powers selfishly, we find that many of
his miracles, especially healings, were done at his own personal expense.
"Virtue [vitality] went out of him and healed them all." (Luke 6:19)
R2243:5
Our Lord subsequently used this power in feeding multitudes and turning
water into wine, but it would have been sinful for him to use it upon
himself, to sustain the human life which he had already consecrated unto
death. R4544:5, 1689:4; Q707:2
Food thus secured could sustain life for but a little while; the better
plan would be to trust in the Word of God and have eternal life with God.
R4897:1
When he hungered, he sent his disciples to buy bread. When weary, he
rested on the well or elsewhere. He never prayed for deliverance from
natural troubles, but cheerfully endured them as part of his sacrifice. So
should we. F636, 650
Matthew 4:4
But he answered -- The fact that Jesus discussed matters with the
Adversary does not furnish us with an excuse to try our ability in this
direction--as in spiritism. R5084:6
If we are positive in our rejection of temptation it increases our
strength of character, not only for that time, but also for subsequent
temptations. R2567:3
It is written -- Although filled with the Spirit, he relied upon that
which was "written" for his replies to temptations. R1688:4; Q708:T
The sure defense of the true child of God. F200
Man shall not live -- I could not enjoy life, even with all my wants
supplied, apart from communion with my Father. R314:3
By bread alone -- Thus refusing to use divine power for his personal
comfort and healing. F636, 650; R4970:4
Natural food alone will not sustain us. We cannot live except as we have
the smile, the favor, the approval of the Lord our God. To live without
that, for us, would not be living. R3717:6
Man can find no kind of bread, no kind of food, that will produce life in
the full and complete sense of that word--that will swallow up death in
life. R3058:3 The increase of learning, wealth, conveniences, medical
skill and dietetic knowledge which the world has recently experienced has
not increased its peace. NS521:2
Every temptation to sacrifice spiritual privileges or violate spiritual
responsibilities for the attainment of earthly advantages would be a
yielding to this form of temptation. R4544:6
The most that we should do is to make mention to him of those promises for
temporal provision and of our trust in them. R5202:5
If God calls us to be members of the body of Christ, neither lack of food
nor anything else can hinder us from the full opportunity of making our
calling and election sure. R5202:5
The wrong course is symbolically prefigured in Esau's selling the
birthright for a mess of pottage. (Heb. 12:16) R4544:6, 3717:6, 2567:2
But by every word -- Not merely the milk of the Word. R3622:2, 1568:2
All hopes of eternal life depend upon God--upon the divine plan and its
promises. R3058:5, 4896:3
Every admonition, every encouragement, every promise, is necessary to the
development of those called to eternal life. R4896:6, 3060:4
It is as certain that we need spiritual bread--the truth--constantly, in
order that our spiritual life be sustained, as that we need natural bread
daily to sustain our physical life. R136:3*
Truth is the proper food of man, and a large share of it must be received
by faith. Thus we must live by faith. Faith is to truth as eating is to
bread. R74:1*
The words of God's mouth to us are not exactly the same as to our Lord
Jesus and to the holy angels. To us they are the words of justice, pity,
sonship, promise, admonition, patience, consolation and resurrection.
R3058:6-3060:4
His word is that "whosoever seeketh to save his [earthly] life [at the
expense of his covenant] shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his
[earthly] life [laying down his life in harmony with his covenant of
consecration, faithfully unto death] shall find it [eternal life]." (Matt.
10:39) R2244:1
If he would deserve eternal life, it must be as a result of absolute
obedience to the divine law. R4544:5, 3058:5, 2567:2
He had been feeding upon this heavenly food. He was strong in spirit and
determination to do the Father's will. R3717:6
Our meat and drink should be to do the will of our God, and to finish his
work. (John 4:34) R1689:3
"Whoso keepeth his Word, in him verily is the love of God perfected." (1
John 2:5) R4897:4
Mouth of God -- God's word is that obedience is the condition of life
Matthew 4:5
Then the devil -- The second temptation--the world. R3718:2

Not even dissenting from our Lord's decision, he presented him a second
subtle temptation. R5084:6, 3718:2
Into the holy city -- Mentally, not physically. R5084:3, 4970:4, 4544:6,
3719:2
On a pinnacle -- The roof of the southern wing of the Temple. R3718:2,
3298:2, 2567:4
About 600 feet above the bottom of the valley. R3298:2
Of the temple -- Overlooking the Valley of Hinnom (Gehenna). R3718:2,
3298:2, 2567:4
Matthew 4:6
And saith unto him -- Again posing as a friend, an angel of light.

R3718:3
If thou be -- Your trust in Jehovah is misplaced; first prove Him and
see if He will keep His word. R314:4
Cast thyself down -- Not a temptation to gross wickedness, but a
temptation to do the Lord's work in another way than that which the Lord
had planned. R2567:3
Recklessly expose yourself in proof of your mission. E111
Thus drawing the immediate attention of all Israel to the fact that you
are the Messiah. R3718:3, 5965:6, 4970:4, 4544:6
"A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign" (Matt. 16:4),
such as the laying on of hands, the gift of tongues, physical healing,
peculiar dress, robes, mitres, relics of saints, etc. R3718:5
"This generation seeketh a sign" (Mark 8:12); and thus it is with every
generation. The world wants miracles or outward shows of sanctity and
great professions. R3718:5
Illustrating the temptation to recklessly expose ourselves to any
danger--moral, financial, phy-sical or spiritual--expecting miraculous
deliverance. R2244:2,3, 4970:6
He had not been called upon to thus hazard his life, but rather was
required to sacrifice it--laying it down in the service of the truth and
of humanity. R4545:1
The Lord's people should be on guard against any unreasonable procedures
in the proclamation of the Gospel. The service of ambassadors for God is a
reasonable service. R3718:6, 3298:6, 2567:5
Another temptation of the same character: To expect divine interposition
to put truth into our mouths and hearts while failing to obey the divine
instruction to "Search the Scriptures." R2244:3
It would be a sin to use spiritual power for the gratifying of our human
nature when it was given us wherewith to crucify it. R146:5
The wonder-working spirit is contrary to the spirit of humility and, if
gratified, would lead to spiritual pride and egotism. R4545:1
We are to do all in our power before expecting divine interpositions. We
are not to thus tempt providence. R2421:2
If we should presume to go out in cold or stormy weather improperly clad,
when it is not necessary to do so, and thus risk contracting illness, we
would be doing a wrong and unwarranted thing. Q708:1
It requires greater courage to ignore the shame and ignominy of the world
in the disesteemed service of God than to perform some great and wonderful
feat that would cause the natural man to wonder and admire. E112
For it is written -- Satan quoted Scripture but misapplied it.
R3718:2,6, 4970:4
His angels -- Ministers of divine truth who, in the present
harvest-time, would be commissioned to bear up the feet members with such
counsels, admonitions and expositions of Scripture as would be necessary
for them. (Psa. 91:11,12) R2567:6
Bear thee up -- If he had been thrust off the Temple pinnacle by the
hands of an angry mob before his time had come, or if he accidentally
fell, surely the Father would have intervened that he not be injured; but
to do so deliberately would have been to tempt God. R4970:5, 3718:4, 3298:3
Dash thy foot -- This Scripture really belongs to the feet members of
the Body of Christ, that they may surmount the difficulties and receive
blessing instead of injury. R4545:1, 3719:1, 3298:4, 2567:5, 2244:2,
1680:6, 844:3
Against a stone -- It is possible that our Lord at that time did not
know the proper interpretation of this Scripture; if he had, there would
have been little temptation in the suggestion. R3298:3
We now see that the Lord himself was the "stone of stumbling and a rock of
offence to both the houses of Israel" (Isa. 8:14), and that his "feet"
represent spiritual Israel particularly during the harvest time. R3298:4
In our day there is a stumbling-stone permitted for the testing of our
faith. Whoever is of the proper character will be aided of the Lord to
victory so that the stumbling-stone will become a stepping-stone to higher
riches of grace and blessing. R3719:1, 3298:5
Matthew 4:7
It is written again -- Seemingly conflicting Scriptures should be

harmonized by examining the underlying principles. R3298:3
Not tempt the Lord -- By trying him through a misapplication of his
promise. Q708:T
To deliberately defy the laws of nature and to expect divine protection
would have been to tempt God. This Jesus refused to do. R4970:5, 3718:4,
1688:4; Q707:4
Matthew 4:8
Again, the devil -- The third temptation--the devil. R3719:2

In seeming sympathy with our Lord. R3719:3
Again changing his method of attack. R5084:5
This time he no longer disputed with Jesus that he was the Son of God.
R2244:5
Taketh him up -- Mentally, not physically. R4970:5, 3719:2, 3298:4
High mountain -- Satan's own dominion over the world. R5084:5, 4970:5,
4545:2, 3719:2, 3299:1, 2244:4
And sheweth him -- Thus picturing his own power over the world, the
power of a usurping prince imposing upon him the ignorance and
superstition of mankind. R4545:2
This panoramic presentation of Satan's power was designed to impress upon
our Redeemer the thought that Satan's friendship and assistance would be
most valuable--nay, of almost vital importance to the success of his
mission. R2567:6
All the kingdoms -- Held and ruled through his minions, the
blood-thirsty kings of earth. R615:1*
Our Lord clearly understood that sometime he was to have authority over
these kingdoms, and that his mission was to lay the foundation for a
Kingdom, but he probably did not yet fully understand how or when--hence,
the peculiar force of this temptation. R3299:1
Though God has given over the world to the "prince of this world" until
the full end of the Gentile times, yet God has not given him unlimited
power. R5205:4
Pray God's guidance and direction over all the affairs of life and over
rulers to the end that the piety, sobriety and growth of the Church may be
conserved. R5205:4; HG570:4
Matthew 4:9
All these things -- You will be great indeed. You are a perfect man and
you can live forever. Since your life is not forfeited, no one can take it
from you. You can be Lord of lords and King of kings to bless mankind.
R314:4
Will I give thee -- Satan controls the invisible spiritual phase of the
present kingdoms of earth, as well as the visible human phase. A251;
R4970:5
This offer was no farce; it was the climax of the temptations, the last
resort of a baffled enemy. R615:1*
To give the impression that he himself was tired of rebellion against God
in the world and that he was ready to join our Lord in a great social
uplift. R5084:5, 4970:5, 4545:4, 3719:3, 3299:2; E113
Furthermore, this would involve my own conversion to righteousness, which
surely would not be amiss, either in your sight or in the sight of
Jehovah. R2244:5; E114
The suggestion was that with some maneuvering and wire-pulling he, as a
perfect man, and therefore far superior to other men, could soon win his
way to a chief place of power and dominion over the whole world. R1688:6
His proposition is a social uplift which shall ignore individual
responsibilities and sins and merely regard social conditions and make
society outwardly clean. E115
If thou wilt fall down -- Bend a little; make compromise with the
worldly spirit. R2568:2
He foresaw that the suggested course would involve many compromises with
evil men then in power, just as all office-seekers under the present order
have always found it. R1689:1
Similarly today, he proposes to the Lord's followers identification with
nominal Churchianity. R3299:5
The temptation is, Will we connive with and recognize unjust and sinful
institutions because they have power and because to oppose them would
imply their opposition and the bringing of shame, scorn and death.
R4545:5, 3299:5
Satan was willing to become a reformer in all particulars except one--his
ambition must be gratified. E113
Worship me -- Cooperate with me for the world's uplift. R4970:5; E112
Implying that Satan would not require such suffering and sacrifice as God
required; that, if Jesus would cooperate with him, all would work smoothly
and prosperously. R5966:1; Q708:3
As does the nominal church when it seeks to increase membership by
resorting to worldly customs, games, entertainments, etc. R3719:5, 4970:6
When the Papacy did this, Satan was true to his promise. B293; E114
Recognize his influence and cooperation in the work. Not for a moment can
we suppose that he expected him to kneel before him and worship him as a
God. R2568:1
I do not ask that you shall not recognize Jehovah, but that you shall be
under my supervision. You will not be required to do anything very bad.
R5084:6
I, on the spirit plane, and you, on the human plane, will be quite masters
of the situation. Let us federate and cooperate. R4970:5, 4545:4
By not opposing evil, by respecting or reverencing evil customs already
established under Satan's regime, Satan would cooperate with our Lord in
the establishment of his Kingdom. E74
It was not long after the apostles fell asleep in death that the Adversary
succeeded in deluding the church to go into partnership with him for the
control of the world and its blessings through a combination of religion
and politics. R2245:1
Matthew 4:10
Get thee hence, Satan -- Adversary, opposing spirit. F611

I cannot be a co-worker with you in any sense of the word. R4970:6, 3299:4
Fully awakening in Jesus a realization of the fact that there was no real
reformation at work in Satan's heart. R2568:2
Our Lord was saved from any vacillation on the subject by reason of the
fullness of his consecration. R3299:4
Our Lord was indignant that it should be thought for a moment he would
prove traitor to his covenant and enter into a confederacy with the great
Arch-enemy of righteousness, Satan. R4970:6
Had he not reached this final decision we may presume that Satan's
temptations would have continued for days or weeks or years. R3299:6
Let each of us, as followers of the Master, be prompt in giving our
response to the Adversary's proposition of compromise. He who dallies with
temptation increases its power every moment. R3720:1, 3299:6; Q184:T
We are to resist the Adversary courageously that he may leave us
permanently. R4970:6
When we take a positive stand on any question we have special help from
the Lord along those lines. R4339:4*
Worship the Lord -- The Greek word translated "worship" in the New
Testament is proskuneo which signifies "to kiss the hand," as a dog licks
the hand of its master. The significance is reverence. E72
Thy God, and him only -- Reverence to those in honored positions, if not
rivals of Jehovah, is proper. E73
Shalt thou serve -- I will follow the divine program at any cost. R2244:6
Matthew 4:11
Devil leaveth him -- And never made another attempt, as far as the
record goes. R5292:4, 4970:6; Q184:T
"Resist the devil and he will flee from you." (Jas. 4:7) R1689:5; Q184:T
Behold, angels came -- Uninvited. R1689:6
From the moment of our positive resistance of temptation and positive
standing up for the Lord we become stronger in the Lord and in the power
of his might. R3300:4
Our Lord had no Advocate to sympathize with him, and to succor and
encourage him in the hour of temptation. With us, however, matters are
different. R4545:5
Whatever terror lay in the intimated opposition of the Adversary was more
than counterbalanced by the assurance of divine favor and assistance. So
it is with us. R3300:4
Ministered unto him -- Strengthened him, revived him. R4970:6
Matthew 4:12
Now when Jesus -- Probably six months or a year after his baptism.
R2245:2
Heard that John -- Foreshadowed the closing work of the Church at the
second advent. B261,253
He departed -- "When they persecute you in this city, flee to another."
(Matt. 10:23) F508
It is our duty to be on the lookout for divine deliverance and the opening
of a way of escape from things too difficult to endure. F508
Into Galilee -- More amenable to the teachings of Jesus than were many
of their more religious, more enlightened, and more priest-ridden
brethren of Judea. R4557:1
The expression "Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?" (John 1:48)
applied to all Galilee. R4556:6
Matthew 4:13
In Capernaum -- Moving there with his mother and brethren, as a family.

R2245:3
Capernaum was more closely in touch with the Gentile world, its good and
its evil, than was Jerusalem. R4557:2
Matthew 4:15
Galilee -- Signifies circle; implying that this land would be encircled

by the Gentiles. R4556:6
Matthew 4:16
The people -- The people of Palestine, long in doubt, uncertainty, etc.

R4988:2
Sat in darkness -- Separated from the great religious center of their
day, they were in greater darkness than their brethren. R4557:1
Saw great light -- Jesus and his teachings. R4988:2
Symbol of God, of Christ, of the Church, of truth, of influence for
Which flared forth in Capernaum, Bethsaida, Chorazin and Nazareth, chief
cities of Galilee, and blessed and gathered some, the elect. R4557:1,5
The benighted Galileans were blessed in the great light which shone in
their midst; but it also tested them as truth, light, always does. R4557:5
All mankind shall see the great light which God has provided. R4988:5,
4557:1
Shadow of death -- In the very shadow of the death-darkness that was
upon the Gentiles. R4557:1
Subject to a reign of sin and death, under a pall of darkness, ignorance,
superstition, sin, etc. R4987:6
Even these must come forth that all may be enlightened by this "true light
which lighteth every man that cometh into the world." (John 1:9) R4988:6
Light is sprung up -- Before the world will be enlightened, the Church
must be enlightened, completed and glorified together with her Lord.
R4988:4
Matthew 4:17
Repent -- From our Lord's viewpoint the healing of soul-sickness was of

greater importance than physical healing, which was merely incidental.
R2246:4
Kingdom of heaven -- The hope of every Israelite. A273
Matthew uses the terms "kingdom of heaven" and "kingdom of God"
interchangeably. R396:3,6
Is at hand -- The 69 (of 70) weeks of Daniel's prophecy have expired.
R3630:2
In the sense that Jesus was present to make a formal tender of the Kingdom
to Abraham's natural seed. R4557:2
Matthew 4:18
Simon called Peter -- "Simon Peter, lovest thou me more than these?
[nets, boats, etc.]" (John 21:15) NS656:4
And Andrew -- This calling was not their first introduction to Jesus,
but merely the Lord's invitation to them to become special associates in
the work. R2245:2
They were fishers -- Christ did not call idlers, but workers, into his
ministry. R2246:1
All his disciples (the twelve) were from what might be termed the humbler
walks of life. It is declared without disapproval that the rulers
"perceived that they were unlearned men." (Acts 4:13) F210
Matthew 4:19
Follow me -- While the Lord called each individually, there was also a
special occasion upon which he dedicated them to their office as apostles.
(Luke 6:13) R1521:2
I will make you -- The twelve whom I have specially chosen. F217
Fishers of men -- Spiritual fishing requires knowledge, tact, bait, and
that self be kept out of sight. Fish are easily alarmed when they think
anyone wishes to take them. "Be ye wise as serpents and harmless as
doves." (Matt. 10:16) R5555:1,3, 3308:3; CR156:4
The skillful fisherman catches the fish individually. Likewise, very much
of the work of this age has been an individual work, accomplished by
talking to people. R5555:1
"The Kingdom of heaven is like unto a net that was cast into the sea and
gathered fish of every kind." (Matt. 13:47) C214; R920:1
Matthew 4:20
Left their nets -- Forsook all to follow him. The "seventy" commissioned
later on were never recognized as apostles. F210
Evidently retaining some sort of interest in them, however, as they had no
difficulty in regaining possession of them when they re-embarked in the
fishing business after our Lord's death. R3308:2
Not instantly, but after making necessary arrangements. Similarly, we have
a stewardship of duties and responsibilities in life which we cannot
abruptly cast aside. R3720:6, 3721:1
The Lord accepts none as his disciples except those who forsake all to
follow him. R4557:4
And so it is today. Those who most cheerfully, most zealously forget self
and earthly ambitions, aims and projects, and who most fully give
themselves to the Lord and to his service--these may walk nearest to the
Lord at all times. R3334:6
Matthew 4:22
And their father -- Leaving the fishing equipment in the care of Zebedee
and hired servants. R3720:6
Matthew 4:23
All Galilee -- Supposed to have had a population of over 3,000,000.

R3334:3
The people of Galilee were evidently thrifty, prosperous work people,
people best prepared to receive his teachings. R3334:3
In their synagogues -- They could teach the people there, for a time;
but as they shunned not to declare the whole counsel of God, they soon
found little and finally no opportunity to teach the people in the
synagogues. R986:5
The gospel -- His message is called "the Gospel," the good news, because
Israelites, like the rest of the groaning creation, have been long waiting
for the promised Golden Age. R2246:1
Of the kingdom -- The sum and substance of the gospel theme. R1579:3
And healing -- "These things did Jesus, and manifested forth his glory."
(John 2:11) PD64/74
All manner of sickness -- Let those who are lame through pride and
self-will and unable to follow in the narrow way cast away their crutches.
Let them learn to walk in his ways of meekness, gentleness, patience,
longsuffering and brotherly-kindness. R2246:5
Matthew 4:24
His fame -- As his fame increased, the opposition to him became more and
more pronounced, especially from those who were brought into competition
and unfavorable comparison with him as public teachers. R1735:3
And they brought -- We urge the necessity of bringing friends, and
coming oneself, to the Great Physician for the healing of soul-sickness.
R2246:5
Possessed with devils -- The evil spirits of selfishness and pride.
R2246:5
The palsy -- The palsy of fear of man which bringeth a snare. [Prov.
29:25] R2246:5
He healed them -- To foreshadow the still greater work to be
accomplished during his Millennial reign, and also to draw attention to
the message proclaimed. PD64/74; R4557:5, 2246:4
Matthew 5
Matthew 5:1
He went up -- Being wearied with exhaustive labor, too weary to minister

to the multitudes. R1493:3*
Into a mountain -- He did not seek a public place where the largest
audience could be gathered, but a place of retirement where he could be
alone with his disciples. R3243:1
Supposedly a site known as the Mount of Beatitudes, sloping gradually,
about 60 feet high, situated about seven miles southwest from Capernaum.
R2249:3
It is said that on this mountain the last remnant of the Crusaders was
destroyed in AD 1187. R2249:3
His disciples came -- They had not yet become sons of God in the full
sense of the word. Jesus spoke in an anticipatory or prophetic sense, as
if they were already new creatures. R5623:2,3
His disciples were nearest to him, with the multitudes surrounding.
R2249:3, 2589:1
Our Lord's first message was, Repent and get ready for the Kingdom (Matt.
4:17). To those who accepted that message he now gave additional blessed
lessons. R4556:3
Jesus was addressing such of the Jews as had the hearing ear, such as had
an inclination to be his disciples. Only the spirit-begotten understand
these beatitudes fully. R5003:4, 4557:2, 3243:1
Not addressed to a promiscuous congregation of saints and sinners, but to
his earnest and faithful disciples who had left all to follow him. R1493:3*
Matthew 5:2
Taught them -- A different message; others hold forth the rich, the
learned, the influential, as patterns to copy; but Jesus set forth the
reverse to attain happiness. R5003:2
The sermon is entirely devoid of anything like oratory; for evidently its
object was to instruct, rather than to play upon the emotions of the
hearers. R1493:2*
Instructed his disciples how they could best make their calling and
election sure and win the great prize. R5003:5
His words were simple and easy to be understood. They applied strongly
both to the judgment and to the heart. R1493:3*
His discourse was so directed as to divide his hearers into two
classes--some disappointed, others thoroughly satisfied. Thus does the
truth always separate. R3733:3
Not with threats of vengeance if the lessons were not learned; and while
only the spirit-begotten can fully appreciate them, others may gather
precious lessons from the beatitudes. R5003:5
Saying -- The character of our Lord is one. Here the Lord divides this
one character into different sections, giving us a view of each particular
part. R2585:2
Matthew 5:3
Blessed -- Much more than happy. Happiness usually proceeds from outward
causes, while the word blessed here carries with it the thought of great
or honorable. R2249:6
Happiness describes joyful moods which come from time to time; but
blessedness relates to that permanent joy and comfort which results from
attaining character in harmony with the divine. R3733:2
The contrast between the Ten Commandments and the eight beatitudes
illustrates the difference between the Law Dispensation and the
Dispensation of Grace. R5003:2
The beatitudes designate the particular graces necessary to receive the
blessings which the Father designed we should enjoy through Christ.
R2249:3, 2240:1
We advise a reading and pondering on alternative Sundays of this
delineation of the graces and the Apostle Paul's summation of the same
graces in 1 Cor. 13. R2240:1, 2234:5, 2205:6
The poor in spirit -- The Foundation of the Palace of Blessedness is
Humility. R5003:5
The Greek word signifies "extremely poor, utterly destitute." R2250:1
The first blessed state, in some respects, comprehends all the others. It
is the gateway, the hallway of the House of Blessing, from which all the
other rooms are accessible. R2249:6
Not the rich, the learned, the prominent, the rulers, the self-conceited,
but those lacking self-esteem, who appreciate their own littleness and
imperfection. R3733:6, 5991:5, 2139:1
Nevertheless, evidently moderate poverty is the most favorable condition
for us in our present weak and fallen condition. R2250:1
Humble-minded, and therefore more teachable. R4969:4, 4557:3
While all humble persons will not attain the Kingdom, the Kingdom cannot
be attained by anyone who is not humble. R2585:2
God would never accept as a member of the Kingdom class one possessed of
the spirit of pride and selfish ambition. R5003:5, 2585:3
Not necessarily poor in pocket. Some who are poor in pocket, or in
intellectual gifts or attainments, are very proud in spirit. R2585:5,
1920:5
A full appreciation of our own spiritual destitution is essential before
we will be ready to receive the measures of divine grace provided. R2250:1
It is only when we are little in our own eyes that God can use us with
safety to ourselves. R1920:5
Luke omits "in spirit"; those who become poor in any sense of the word,
whether financially, socially or otherwise, by sacrificing themselves.
Blessed are all the sacrificers. R1493:5*
If the success of yesterday makes you fret under the humiliation of today,
then beware: you are not as roundly developed spiritually as you should
be. R1920:6
Theirs is the kingdom -- They are the prospective kings and priests of
the new dispensation. R2139:5*
To those, all the Master's gracious promises and lessons of wisdom,
comfort and instruction are given. R5991:5
Even now these constitute the embryo Kingdom. R2139:4*
Only the poor in spirit can submit to the discipline and training
necessary to fit them for the Kingdom. R2139:4*
Matthew 5:4
Blessed -- Growing out of the first quality, as a tree of many branches

out of the root, come the other graces of the spirit. R2585:3
So if we find that the great majority of mankind have had considerable
mourning and sorrow, there is comfort that the majority shall be comforted
and receive joy. NS614:4
They that mourn -- The Palace Reception Room is the Chamber of
Sorrow--mourning. R5003:6
The sympathetic, who realize their own imperfections, and are touched with
pity for the poor groaning creation as they see them dying in sorrow, pain
and disappointment. R3734:1,2, 5003:6, 2586:1, 2250:2; NS190:4
Necessary for our complete separation from the things of the world, the
flesh and the devil. R5003:6
Mourners in Zion, true saints in the nominal church, distressed at the
worldliness therein. D30; R1441:2
Mourning, of itself, is not a grace, but it betokens an attitude of mind
which is acceptable in the Lord's sight. R2585:6
Our Heavenly Father is not a continual mourner. The thought, rather, is
Blessed are ye that mourn now. R2585:6
Because iniquity abounds. R2138:6*, 1493:6*
Not expecting that becoming his disciples would lift them out of trials,
difficulties, sorrows, tears, but that such experiences would be overruled
for their good. R4557:5
It was this mourning in sympathy that led to Jesus' tears at Lazarus'
tomb; and to his being called "the man of sorrows and acquainted with
grief." (Isa. 53:3) R3734:3 We can cultivate this grace by frequently
thinking of others and their interests and seeking to enter into these as
though they were all our own. R2586:1
"Ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice." (John 16:20)
R1493:6*
They shall be comforted -- The word comfort does not contain the thought
of relief, but rather that of strengthened together, or added strength.
R3734:4
Our Lord notes their tears as well as their efforts in opposition to sin.
R2250:3
Their comforting will begin at once, for their mourning will bring a
readiness of mind to hearken for the Lord's favor. R3734:2, 2586:1
Blessed are those who, being comforted themselves, shall be used of the
Lord in the comforting of other members of his Body. R3734:5
In receiving the reward of the righteous, and in beholding the final
triumph of righteousness and truth. R1493:6*
"Beauty for ashes and the oil of joy for mourning." (Isa. 61:3) D30
Matthew 5:5
Are the meek -- The Palace Library is Meekness. R5003:6

Submissive to the divine will. R2586:3
The teachable; not too proud to learn. R5003:6, 5186:1, 2586:1; Q469:2
Self-controlled, gentle, not easily provoked or irritated, forbearing
under injury or annoyance. R3734:5,6
Meekness is necessary to learn valuable lessons in character-development,
to be prepared to be the teachers of the world. R5003:6, 4557:3,6
"God resisteth the proud." (Jas. 4:6) E255
Impossible without the first two graces of a humble mind and the large
sympathies of the mourner. R2586:2
The outward manifestation of the second grace, which is an inward quality.
R2586:2
There is quite a difference between this gentle submission to the divine
will and ordinary gentleness which is frequently exercised to gratify
selfish desires. R2586:2
Any wise man may learn something from a child; but anyone who is not meek
finds it difficult to learn anywhere. Q469:2
Not bold, grasping, ferocious, self-willed, getting the best of the earth
and everybody in it, but submitting to injustice in the interests of the
coming Kingdom. R4557:6, 3734:5
The blessed meek of verse 5 are the same class who, in verses 10 and 11,
are bold and courageous enough to withstand evil and error and champion
righteousness and truth. R1493:6*
It is a life work with many to conquer their too-high appreciation of
themselves and to obtain the spirit of a sound mind as respects their own
talents. E255
Nothing is more dangerous to the child of God than self-conceit; it
hinders reformation of the heart, as well as true usefulness to others,
and especially usefulness in God's service. R5186:1
For they -- The seed of Abraham, members of Messiah. R5370:5, 5003:6,
4557:6
And not the selfish, avaricious and grasping. D633 Shall inherit the
earth -- Purchased, as well as man, by the great sacrifice finished at
Calvary. R2250:3
The reward of this grace, like the others, is future. R2586:6
When God's Kingdom has come and his will is done on earth as it is in
heaven. R3734:5
The Lord's followers now have more enjoyment of the earth than others;
while others are grasping, they are enjoying. R3734:6, 2586:3
Losing houses, lands, parents, children and friends, eventually they will
inherit the earth. R4557:6
Under the primary and original covenant, as the Seed of Abraham. As
members of Messiah, these will come into the full possession and control
of the earth. R5370:5, 5003:6
The Church of the Firstborn is soon to have the entire Inheritance, the
land as well as the power, dominion, glory and honor. R1164:2,4
"I will give thee the heathen for thine inheritance; and the uttermost
parts of the earth for a possession" (Psa. 2:8) as soon as the last member
of the elect has been prepared. R2250:4
To bring it to becoming again a Paradise of God, a world-wide Eden. R4557:6
The overcomers of this age inherit it now by faith, and the overcomers of
the next age will do so actually. R3734:6
During the Millennial age the meek of the restitution class shall inherit
the earth. R3734:6
At the close of the Messianic reign, the meek will turn over their
inheritance, the earth, to mankind. R5004:1, 2586:3
Matthew 5:6
Blessed are they -- Others are wholly unprepared to come to Jesus--such

as those morally of a superior class who feel less the need of divine aid.
NS121:1
Hunger and thirst -- In a symbolic palace of blessedness the dining room
is Hunger for Righteousness. R5004:1
"As the hart panteth after the water brook." (Psa. 42:1) R5163:6
The human heart, as well as the human body, has its appetites. NS119:3
Some of the soul's appetites are: (1) craving for sympathy and fellowship;
(2) craving for ease and comfort; (3) craving for name and fame; (4)
craving for pleasure. NS120:1
Uncontrolled by the other graces, has led many reformers into wild
excesses; yet, under the control of a sound mind, the child of God waits
for the fulfillment of his promises. R2586:5
The first step of justification does not admit to the Lord's table except
as it prepares us for it. The second step is full consecration to the
Lord. NS121:4
A heart condition of faith and teachableness; and, while exercising our
reasonable faculties, we expect divine guidance. R4744:6
Nothing is more conducive to spiritual hunger than approach to the throne
of grace. NS122:3
The hope inspired by God's promise to Abraham is the power which has taken
the spiritual stone out of the mountain--the world. (Dan. 2:45) OV429:3
God allows us to get very hungry before he gives us the truth. CR54:3
Many of the Lord's people reach his table without having a very keen
appetite--such are easily satisfied. NS121:6
Lovers of righteousness and haters of iniquity. R5004:1 Who desire more
and stronger spiritual food that they may grow thereby. Milk is for babes,
but strong meat is for those who have passed the infant stage. (Heb. 5:14)
R1358:2
Manifested by the desire to draw near to God, which the Lord expects
before he fulfills his promise that they shall be filled or satisfied.
R2671:1
After righteousness -- That which is right, truth. R4971:1, 3735:1
Wisdom, knowledge, understanding of the good and true. R3284:6
The satisfying portion--at the table of divine provision. OV260:3
The Scriptures assure us that "There is none righteous, no, not one" (Rom.
3:10). There is a relative righteousness, however, which God can approve.
R5218:2
Righteous heart or character. R5901:3*
Righteousness is so interwoven with its various parts--justice and
injustice, truth and error, holiness and sin--that whoever is careless in
one element is deficient in all. NS123:2
Righteousness here applies to right in every matter--truth. R3735:1;
NS120:4
New Year is a favorable time for heart reformation--not only because of
the suggestions of new things, but also because of heart disappointments
incidental to the holiday season. NS122:1
Seeking to be in harmony with Him to the best of their ability, and
trusting in the precious blood of our Redeemer. R5218:2
With an antipathy to untruth in every form, and to all injustice and
inequity; modified by the third grace, by patient submission to the divine
will. R2586:5
So loving righteousness, truth, that they renounce and denounce bondage to
creeds and stand forth for the truth. NS123:1
We find what we seek! Those who desire to find God's message will be
guided of the Lord. Those who approach from the standpoint of cavil,
unbelief, antagonism, are equally sure to find what they seek--flaws,
contradictions, etc. R4971:1; HG473:6; Q643:2
They shall be filled -- Made holy. R5901:3*
The truth on every subject necessary for us will be given as the Lord is
pleased to reveal it. R5570:4, 4744:5, 5004:1
The very fact that we do not know everything, far from being a cause of
disappointment, is a source of pleasure. Each fresh item of knowledge is a
new well-spring of pleasure. NS742:3
Satisfied with the spiritual refreshment God provides; we shall be
bountifully fed and sweetly refreshed with the "meat in due season" and
the water of life. R1396:5, 3735:1, 1899:2, 4558:1
The water of life and truth which Christ has furnished satisfied as
nothing else could do. Those who drink of it have no cravings for vain
philosophies of men which make void the Word of God. R1703:4
Righteousness and truth are scarce commodities at the present time. R4558:1
There is nothing in unrighteousness to fill any man. There is a filling
power in righteousness. NS122:5
The appetite for truth and righteousness will remain, but the prevalence
of truth and righteousness shall be its satisfaction. R2586:5
Does not imply a miraculous filling. They will make use of their time,
knowledge and opportunities for seeking the bread of eternal life which
satisfies. R3735:1
Repeatedly filled as full as the present poor earthen vessel will contain.
With the filling comes the enlargement of our capacities, and still
further filling and a further enlargement, and so on. NS122:4
Satisfaction will not be attained fully in the present life; the believer
progresses more and more to this satisfaction, receiving the full measure
on the other side of the veil. R2671:1, 2586:6, 2250:5
Their own perfection in the first resurrection, and the establishment of
righteousness in all the earth during the 1000 years of Messiah's reign.
R5004:1
Matthew 5:7
The merciful -- In a symbolic palace of blessedness the door is Mercy.

R5004:1
Those who, having recognized their own need of divine mercy, are merciful
and compassionate toward others. R5004:1, 3735:2
Only such could be entrusted with the works of restitution. R4558:1
A genuine mercy, a forgiving "from your hearts." (Matt. 18:35) R2587:1
God would rather have us err in the sense of being too lenient than have
us be merely just. SM432:2
A genuine mercy and not a feigned one; it must cover from sight, and, as
far as possible, blot from memory the failings and weaknesses of others.
R2587:1
An outward expression, which men can discern, resulting from an
appreciation of righteousness and a hunger and thirst for it in the
renewed heart. R2586:6
It is for God to be just; it is for men to exercise the blessed
characteristic of mercy, compassion, forgiveness. R2587:3
When Abraham requested mercy for Sodom (Gen. 18:23-32) the Lord was
proved, in every case, to be no less just and no less generous than his
servant. R3948:1
As applied to thought: it is better to be deceived a hundred times than to
go through life soured by a suspicious mind. R4919:4
The unmerciful, evil-thinking mind is father to unmerciful conduct toward
others. R4919:4
It is very unbecoming for those who themselves have need of divine mercy
to be sticklers in the last degree in the requirement of justice for
others. R3735:3
"Mercy rejoices against judgment"--against the execution of justice. (Jas.
2:13) R3735:2, 2587:2
Obtain mercy -- Only the merciful shall obtain mercy: "If ye forgive not
men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."
(Matt. 6:15) R2587:1, 3803:1
The promise of mercy to the merciful is a principle of divine government,
because the more generous and loving the heart, the nearer to the perfect
condition. OV210:3
God will extend his mercy toward us as respects those deflections which
are not willful. R2587:4
God will deal gently with them, forgiving their blemishes and weaknesses
in proportion as they have this spirit of generosity, forgiveness, toward
those who trespass against them. R3805:5
But the Lord declines to forgive our trespasses against his law unless we
exercise this spirit toward our fellow-men. R4558:2
The strongest incentive towards as lenient a judgment of our fellow-men as
circumstances will permit. R1493:6*
Matthew 5:8
The pure in heart -- In a symbolic palace of blessedness the window

through which we may see God is Purity of Heart. R5004:4
In his creation, man was made in the image of God, and so was originally
pure in heart. R5148:3, 3735:3
We will be judged according to the purity of the heart, mind, intention,
will. R4558:2
Those absolutely cleansed in will and spirit, and, as far as possible, in
flesh and tongue. F409; R5389:3; SM335:1, 633:2; Q51:3
Loyalty to the principles of truth and righteousness, the principles of
divine government; loyalty to God and our Lord Jesus Christ and members of
his body. R4929:3
Purity of motive, of intention, of effort, of will; in the sense of
transparency, of truthfulness; sincere, unsullied, without adulteration.
R5148:3, 5004:4, 5264:5, 3735:3, 2587:3; Q51:4
So long as the motives of the new will are honorable, we have the
assurance that we will ultimately reach perfection through obedience.
R5149:2, 5756:3
If we fail to reach perfection of heart-development during the period of
our trial, we shall die the second death. But this does not mean
perfection of the flesh. R4400:6, 5902:1, 4558:3, 3735:5
To be pure-hearted means to be sincere and to utter nothing which we do
not mean. NS673:6
The pure of heart are those whose intentions are pure, whose motives are
pure, who desire the best--long for the best. Q51:4
Hence the importance of criticizing or judging our hearts, the necessity
of purging from them everything rebellious and sinful. NS163:6
The Lord's judgment will be, not according to outward attainment, but
according to inward attainment. NS593:4
We may be sure that the pure in heart, in intention and endeavor, will
make considerable progress in overcoming the weaknesses of the flesh.
NS654:4; SM335:1
Purity, charity, holiness of heart and mind belong to our consecration.
R2015:4
The thought is not perfection of conduct, word or thought, but perfection
of intention as respects all of these. R2587:5, 2250:6, 1739:2
The honest-hearted, those that have absolutely right intentions. R5148:3
A heart filled with the spirit of love will be sure to bestow it upon
others. R4770:6
Maintain purity of heart by purity of mind. R5149:5
An evil mouth, a mouth which does injury to others, indicates an evil
heart. R2444:1
They shall see God -- Greek, horao, discern. R1494:1*
"Without holiness no man shall see the Lord." (Heb. 12:14) R2587:3, 1739:2
Such have the clearest views of God's character and plan now; and such
shall see him shortly when changed in the first resurrection. R3735:6
Not only attain the character-likeness of the Lord Jesus, but eventually
they shall be made like him and "see him as he is" in the first
resurrection. (1 John 3:2) R5149:1, 2587:5
In the fullness of heavenly glory. CR393:2; R4929:3, 5004:4, 5958:3
Having no films of prejudice or vain philosophy before their eyes and no
clouds between themselves and God. R1494:1*
A foretaste comes in the present life: to "comprehend with all the saints
what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and know the love of
Christ." (Eph. 3:18) R2587:6
Where God sees the heart pure and true to him and to his spirit and law of
love, he will, in due time, give the new body suited to it. F409
In his Word and his plan, in his mighty works, in nature, in the secret
closet communions, in his providences. R1739:3
Only such as attain to heart purity can hope ever to see God, to enjoy
this evidence of his love. R3735:5
The Church of Christ, begotten of the holy Spirit, may see him with the
eyes of their understanding in a sense in which the ancient worthies could
not. R5149:5
Those who have a double mind, a double will, also have a double vision, a
double eye. They see spiritual things cross-eyed, double, and
proportionately indistinctly. R2587:6
Matthew 5:9
The peacemakers -- In a symbolic palace of blessednes the parlor is

represented by the characteristics of a Peacemaker. R5004:4
Addressed to the consecrated, Jesus' disciples. SM452:1, 456:2
Purity of heart toward God manifests itself in peaceable desires and
efforts to promote peace in others. R2588:1
To be a peace-maker, one must first be a peace-lover. R2251:2
Peacemaking is chiefly done with the tongue, though it may also operate
through the eye. R2588:2
The Lord's people are to sympathize with all and join with none in the
warring world. R5767:4
We may avoid denunciation of things we cannot endorse, especially things
having no bearing on the Lord's Word. What God sees fit to permit, we can
see fit to endure. R4978:6, 2621:6, 4558:4, 2948:6
Not mischief-makers, strife-breeders, lawless. R4558:4
Taking opportunity to help others. R5004:4
We should seek to subdue and calm the passions of men in the coming
strife. OV287:2
The great majority of those who have named the name of Christ, even if
their hearts are pure and their sympathies large, pursue a reverse course.
Even some of the true saints use their tongues to stir up strife.
R2588:1,2, 3736:1
With perverse natural dispositions, it may require considerable time and
practice to learn and love the path which leads to peace amongst God's
people. R2251:1
Not peace at any price, otherwise our Lord and the faithful body might not
have suffered. R2251:1
There are times where "backbone" is necessary, when principle is involved,
and when retreat would be absolutely wrong; but these cases are rare.
Undoubtedly we can often yield as Isaac did with Abimelech. (Gen.
26:12-25) R3593:6
Combativeness, exercised toward fellow creatures, must be modified by
mercy; it must be trained to fight for truth and against error, but not
against the ignorant servants of the error. R2588:4
Fighting against the imperfections and weaknesses of our own natures will
leave comparatively little time for assaulting others. R2588:4
If we think the majority less wise than we, let us learn patience and
wait, as the Lord does, until they learn the error of their course and
amend it. R4772:6
We are never to use the sword, earthly power, in seeking to promote the
cause of the Master. R3888:1
Children of God -- They have God's spirit. The likeness of his dear Son
has been traced in their hearts. R2588:3
Matthew 5:10
Blessed are they -- To be worthy of this blessing means to develop and

possess a character which the enemies of righteousness would deem worthy
of persecution. R4866:4
It is not until the Lord's people have experienced the preceding blessings
of his grace that they reach the point where they can "glory in
tribulation also." (Rom. 5:3) R2588:4
Which are persecuted -- In a symbolic palace of blessedness the kitchen
represents the trials and difficulties incidental to the rounding out of
character and proper nourishment and upbuilding spiritually. R5004:4
Not only in severe persecutions, but also in the lesser ones, when our
names are cast out as evil, "when men shall separate you from their
company." (Luke 6:22) R3617:4
The Lord is looking for those who are so faithful to the principles of
righteousness that they will exercise it toward their enemies even when
persecuted by them. R3736:3
For righteousness' sake -- Not for fault-finding and general
cantankerousness. R2588:5
For the sake of truth in obedience to the heavenly calling. R4637:1
Peter, John, Paul and Silas, with backs bleeding and feet fast in the
stocks, sang praises to God for the privileges they enjoyed of suffering
with Christ. R4866:1
"If any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him
glorify God." (1 Pet. 4:16) R3736:2, 4558:4, 4326:4, 2251:4
Matthew 5:11
Blessed are ye, when -- Addressed to his disciples, all his followers
throughout this age. R5544:2
As a result of making the Gospel your all- absorbing theme of life. A347;
R5544:3
From the moment of our positive standing up for the Lord and his cause we
become stronger in the Lord. R4814:1
"Blessed are ye" signifies that persecution is a favor from God. R5544:2
His followers must take up their cross if they would follow him. Through
much tribulation they must enter the Kingdom. (Matt. 16:24; Acts 14:22)
NS71:2
We should not court it, but should desire this evidence of our
Whoever will faithfully exercise his ambassadorship, and not shun to
declare the whole counsel of God, will speedily know something of the
sufferings of Christ. E490
Increase the sacrifice daily and you increase the proof daily that you are
his; and such as are his he gathers. R581:3
When God gives quietness, none can make trouble. (Job 34:29) R5879:2
Men shall revile you -- Thinking you carry matters to an extreme, are
too conscientious, give too much time to religious matters, and run not
with them to the same excesses as formerly. NS337:2, 605:2
Followers of him who "when reviled, reviled not again." R3736:3
"Ye shall be hated of all men for my sake." (Matt. 10:22) E490
God permitted his Son to be reviled to demonstrate the kind of character
that was pleasing to him, and he wished to test the loyalty of Jesus
himself. R5545:5
The chief opposition to our Lord came from the religious leaders and
professors; so also with his followers. R4814:1, 4326:2; OV357:1
If, under the pressure, they yield and revile in return, and slander and
backbite, they are proving themselves unworthy of a place in the Kingdom.
R3736:5
And persecute you -- "Whosoever will live godly shall suffer
persecution." (2 Tim. 3:12) F464
Pictured by the bitter herbs of the Passover. F464; NS75:5
The faithful followers of the Lord will be unsympathetically viewed, hated
and persecuted; for the presentations of truth make manifest errors and
hypocrisies. R4814:4, 4558:4, 4557:5,6
Such trials and difficulties are for the rounding out of character and for
nourishing and upbuilding spiritually. R5004:4, 4326:1
Such experiences, overruled for good, serve to test faithfulness and
trust; and the joys of the Kingdom, gained through much tribulation, will
more than compensate for every tear and sorrow. R4557:5
Should be endured faithfully, calmly, rejoicingly. R4558:4
During the present life the Kingdom of heaven, the true Church of Christ,
suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force. (Matt. 11:12) CR493:4
Things may seem to be going contrary to your welfare, to be working out
incalculable harm--but have faith. R2699:4
Persecution implies that the person persecuted possessed qualities that
are feared; that the persecutor realizes his own weakness to meet the
arguments in a more rational way; that either the persecutors are weak or
the arguments of the persecuted are strong. R4865:2
Persecution will come to those who have the courage of their conviction.
R5547:1
All who have walked the narrow way have received persecution--the
Baptists, Methodists, Presbyterians--in their early day, because they had
more light than others. R5546:6
It is safe to say that the persecutors are always wrong, even if we cannot
say that the persecuted are always right. R4865:2
Sometimes this comes from those who were once brethren in the truth; those
who once dipped with us in the dish of divine nourishment at the table of
the Lord. R4326:4
And shall say -- Our Lord seems to have taken more notice of the
evil-speaking that would come upon his people than of the physical
sufferings. R2295:4
All manner of evil -- The call is to ignominy now. R4841:6, 4637:1,
5145:2
Boycotted socially, boycotted in business, slandered in every conceivable
manner, and often by those of whom they had least expected it. R2496:2
Their object in this course is to undermine by prejudice what they fail to
meet by fair reasoning and Scripture. R1192:3
Our opposers do not try to show wherein we have retrograded in life and
action, but put forth all their efforts to show what a fearful thing it is
to leave the church. R2142:4*
Those who would say all manner of evil falsely, knowing the charges are
false, are the very kind who would crucify or burn at the stake, had they
the power. R5545:2
"Woe unto you when all men speak well of you; for so did their fathers
unto the false prophets." (Luke 6:26) R5546:1
Falsely -- We should not be surprised at false charges and false
insinuations against the faithful. R5173:1, 5294:5
Ignorance rather than malevolence is at the foundation of opposition to
the truth. R5145:3
Falsely accused of "fanaticism" because the wisdom of God is oft esteemed
foolishness with men. R2588:5
And yet take it patiently as did the Master, continuing faithful to the
Lord and his cause at any cost. E191
For my sake -- Not for error, but for the truth; not for sects, but for
Christ. R785:4
"Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name's sake, said,
Let the Lord be glorified" (we do this for the Lord's glory). (Isa. 66:5)
C182
His followers would be highly esteemed among the nominally religious were
it not for their loyalty to the Word of God. Because of faithfully
pointing out popular errors and their fidelity to the truth, they are
hated by those prominent in Churchianity. R5173:1, 3736:4
Matthew 5:12
Rejoice -- Possible only when we understand that in these trying

experiences there is a glorious purpose. R5495:6, 4558:5, 5545:2, 5893:6
Great is your reward -- What we do not get here of prosperity we shall
get there, in the Kingdom. R5545:3
The measure of self-sacrifice and sufferings for Christ, endured by each
of the consecrated, becomes a measure of the faithfulness of each as
ambassadors. E490
There will be some least and some greater in the Kingdom of heaven. R1973:5
He that is not willing to have the Kingdom at such a cost is not worthy of
In heaven -- In spiritual things, not in temporal matters. R3223:2
And it is this heavenly reward for which you have been called and for
which you have entered the race. R2699:4
The rewards of Christ's discipleship were not to be expected in the
present life. All that we may now have is the peace and blessing of the
Lord in our hearts, with glorious hopes for the future. NS602:4
So persecuted they the prophets -- And our Lord and the apostles. Being
thus in good company in our experiences, we shall be in like good company
when the Lord makes up his jewels. R2588:6
Which were before you -- We have reason to believe that the Master would
fare no better in the world today than at his first advent, were he to
appear as then. Q752:2
Matthew 5:13
Ye are -- Even now. R2099:3*, 2073:2*

The salt of the earth -- Jesus and his higher law of love, in his own
life and in that of his followers. R3736:5
A healthful, cleansing, preserving element in the midst of a world of
moral decay and sinful pollution. R2073:2*, 1494:2*
The Christian has a special purpose in the world--to be a preservative
power, to have antiseptic qualities, and to draw out all the good
qualities of those with whom he is connected. R5426:5
Exerting an influence and power among men of a preservative kind,
delaying, if not arresting, degrading tendencies. R4558:5
The preservative influence of God's people affects not only themselves,
but spreads over a considerable space around them. R3736:6
A symbol of faithfulness and loyalty, and signifies a purifying and
preservative quality that is a detriment to corruption. Q618:1; R5426:5,
5173:2, 4558:5, 634:1*
As a savory article of diet, it symbolized hospitality; as an antiseptic,
it signified durability, fidelity, purity; as a preservative, it is a
symbol of an enduring compact. R2099:2*, 84:6*
Saltness from the Savior's teachings has a wide influence upon the world.
Without it, corruption and a complete collapse would have come long ago.
R5173:3
Civilization is merely the arrest of those elements of decay which are at
work in the human family, a preserving or salting of the good qualities
which have not yet become extinct. R634:3*
After the taking away of the salt class, putrefaction and disintegration
will speedily follow. R4706:6, 5173:3, 3737:1, 2745:1; Q618:1
It will be in and through the glorified Salt of the Earth that the
blessing will come, the stream of truth for human refreshment for 1000
years. (2 Kings 2:19-22) R5780:2
Have lost his savour -- That which constitutes the saints the salt of
the earth is the fact that they have been salted with the truth. R634:5*
"Have salt [purity, righteousness] in yourselves" (Mark 9:50). If we have
not the salt in ourselves, how can we be the salt of the earth? R2099:5*
How important that we not only have salt in ourselves, but that we
continue to retain its healthful properties! R2099:5*
Good for nothing -- Absolutely useless except for its intended purpose.
R5426:5, 4558:5
"Unto every good work worthless." (Tit. 1:16) R2517:3
Jesus made no attempt at a reformation of the apostate Jewish church.
R778:1*
But to be cast out -- If we lose the holy Spirit, there is no way by
which we could be renewed again. Q618:1
May picture the rejection of the nominal church systems. R778:4*
Castaways from divine favor. R2073:3*
Trodden under foot -- Destroyed. R634:6*
Matthew 5:14
Ye are the light -- Greek, phos. The same word applied to our Lord.
R2409:2
Synonym for truth and righteousness. R5038:1
The Lord was addressing the apostles in particular, and all "overcomers"
of that time. R4992:3, 4746:2
You are now so illuminated by the truth that you yourself have become a
living representative of it. R3243:2, 5129:2
By his spirit in us. CR313:1; R375:3 The Lord's light shone into a little
corner of the world called Palestine, and from his lamp many followers
have lighted their lamps. R3686:2, 627:2*
It is the light of God's truth, shining in our hearts, which shines out
upon the world. E293
The light will become brighter in proportion to our realization of our own
imperfections to the degree of our consecration to the Lord. R5129:3
The Church is now enabled to declare to the world the presence of Christ,
the changes impending, and the wisest course to pursue. B141, 142
Light-bearers for the benefit of others--burning and shining lights,
sympathetic and helpful lights. CR126:1
As children of the light, every day and year will see progress; their
light will be shining more and more clearly and accomplishing the greatest
good. R4189:6
Christian fellowship is thought to be one of the very best aids to
maintaining the light of the Spirit. R5129:6
Although not yet as the sun, nevertheless luminous even now, and their
light may shine within a smaller radius for the blessing of all who will
receive it. R2099:6*
It would require the light of the Sun of Righteousness, Christ and the
Church in glory, to enlighten the whole world. R5769:3
Continuing to shine in the world in the midst of darkness until the
predicted night would come when the world that has loved darkness shall be
overwhelmed by it. R1774:1
It is the light which shines from the true Christian which reproves,
condemns and opposes the darkness of this world. E293; R375:2
If we neglect the privilege of prayer, of study, or of fellowship with the
Lord through failure to think of him, the illumination of the Spirit will
grow dim. R5129:3
But if we should be seduced into worldliness by the spirit of the world,
our light would be quenched or extinguished. E264; R371:6
Neither the philosophies of men nor their moral sentiments are light. The
true light cometh down from above and only those begotten of the Spirit of
the Lord have that light. R5099:6
Of the world -- Not directly, but by a reflex light--through those who
possess it--the spirit operates upon, but not in, the world. R375:3; E293
Whatever light the world gets reaches them indirectly, as reflected from
the children of God. R3646:3
Civilization is simply the indirect result of the measures of salt and
light that have been in the world up to this present time. R2100:1*
Without the Gospel light shining from Jesus and his followers, the
corruption of Christendom would be even worse than it is. When the lights
have all been extinguished, the great time of trouble will follow.
R3736:6, 3737:1, 1774:1
A city--The Church as a whole. R4558:5
The New Jerusalem. R1494:5*, 1185:5, 421:6, 338:5
Set on a hill -- The Kingdom. R1494:5*
"Established in the tops of the mountains... exalted above the hills,
and all nations shall flow into it." (Isa. 2:2) R421:6, 338:5
Cannot be hid -- Its glory shall lighten the whole world. R1494:5*,
421:6*
Matthew 5:15
Light a candle -- The candle light the saints are holding up in the
world is powerless to overcome the great mass of darkness. God, in his due
time, will dispel the darkness of night by causing the sun of
righteousness to arise with healing in its beams. (Mal. 4:2) NS88:3,4
He will test us and prove whether we are worthy to shine forth as the sun,
enlightening the whole world in a manner with which our little lamps of
the present time will in no sense compare. R3737:4
Under a bushel -- Its light would become extinguished. If light does not
shine out, it will soon die out. R4558:6
By covering his light, one demonstrates lack of courage, of appreciation,
of earnestness. R4967:5
We should not say, "We know not the man Jesus." He will withdraw the light
from such a one. R4993:1, 4558:5
On a candlestick -- In a position where it may dispel as much as
possible of the darkness of this world. R2099:6*
It giveth light -- The light is conspicuous because the darkness is
general. R4993:2
Though the darkness recognizes the reproof of its presence, it comprehends
it not. R375:4
In the house -- Our lights are to shine in the "household of faith."
SM241:2; R5769:3, 4558:6, 4305:1, 4189:6
So that our own family, our own household, our neighbors, may see it
burning. R4993:1
Matthew 5:16
Let your light -- Of the holy Spirit; its influence is Christianizing,

civilizing, uplifting, and produces a regard for right and a respect for
God. R4992:3, 4993:4
Not merely the message upon our lips, but also the influence which
emanates from our daily lives. R4330:5, 4675:6, 4460:5
It is the duty of every child of God to be very active in the
dissemination of the truth. R3243:3
The illumination comes, not only through the truth, but also through the
begetting of the holy Spirit. R4746:2
The darkness "hateth the light." (John 3:19,20) R3686:2
So shine -- For the benefit of others, that they may discern what is the
right doctrine. R4967:4, 4746:5, 4675:6
That the spirit of devotion pervade every family, every household,
including the servants. R2989:3
Flash forth the truth into every nook and corner where dark creeds and
black theories have so long lain. R825:6
In proportion as the true followers of Jesus have kept their lamps trimmed
and burning, a measure of enlightenment has spread throughout the world.
R3686:3
All men who are directly or indirectly in contact with these lights of the
world have blessings in proportion to their preparation for them. NS294:2
That they may see -- That all those intimately associated with the body
of Christ may be able to take knowledge of them, that they have been with
Jesus. R4746:5
This text is not in conflict with that which says we are not to let our
left hand know what our right hand does, not to do our good deeds to be
seen of men. (Matt. 6:1-3) R4993:2
Your good works -- In accord with the Master's teachings. SM183:T;
R4558:5, 4967:4; CR126:1
Your likeness to the character of the Lord. R4558:6
In our daily lives. R4967:4 Our daily walk and conversation in all the
little things of life. R1464:2* Will be a reproof on the sins of the world
without one word being uttered on the subject. OV155:3; R4746:5
Not carrying our Bibles in an ostentatious manner, but we are exhorted to
show forth in our daily lives the lessons we learn from its precious
pages. CR126:1
Whether they account for these works properly or evilly. R4746:5
Of some our Lord said that they confess with their mouths, but deny with
their lives. Our whole lives are to be in conformity with the professions
we are making. R4993:1
Glorify your Father -- By honoring the principles of righteousness as
they see them exemplified in God's peculiar people. Recognizing that these
are of God, that theirs is the ideal life, they glorify God. R4993:3
Some who see our good works will glorify God in the day of visitation even
though they do not become followers now. R4746:6
This shining will have an effect upon the world, reproving mankind and
setting before them an example of better living, better thinking. R5057:2
"In the day of their visitation." (1 Pet. 2:12) SM153:1
Matthew 5:17
Think not -- Jesus and his apostles expounded the harmony between
Christianity and Judaism. R5006:2
To destroy the law -- The Jews reasoned that by promising a class
everlasting life, even though they were unable to keep the Mosaic Law, was
a setting aside of the Law, making void all the prophets. R5006:3,5,6
Moses' Law, the divine law given to Israel. R5006:2
We, under the new dispensation, are under the same Law, but with a higher
definition, or explanation . R4226:4
Or the prophets -- The prophecies of selecting a priestly class are now
in process of fulfillment; neither the Law nor the prophets are being
ignored. R5007:1
But to fulfil -- Jesus was a Jew, and obligated to every feature of the
Law. R4703:1
Jesus has been fulfilling the Law during the past 1800 years, as well as
during his ministry. R5165:2
He fulfilled the Law Covenant--met all its requirements, and obtained its
reward, life. That fulfilled it, for that was the end for which it was
given. R1732:6
Only a perfect man could meet its conditions, thus proving that Christ's
perfection was not altered by the fact that his mother was imperfect.
R777:1
But he no more fulfilled all the Law than he did all the prophecies. He
fulfilled all connected with the sacrifice, and nothing connected with the
Kingdom. HG55:6
Jesus will continue the fulfillment of the types of the law during the
thousand years, until all is fulfilled at the close of the Millennial age.
R5165:2
The Gospel of Jesus magnifies the Jewish Law by admitting its
righteousness, its reasonableness, and by admitting that the full fault is
with humanity. R5006:3
Matthew 5:18
One jot -- One iota, the smallest letter in the Greek alphabet. R52:3*
Realizing God's care in making the shadow should not only give us
confidence in its correctness, but lead us to examine closely for the
meaning of those shadows. T12
One tittle -- Fine point of a letter. The holy Spirit inspired, in many
cases, the exact phraseology. R52:2*
Every good promise of the holy Scriptures will surely have fulfillment.
OV129:1
In no wise pass from the law -- The Law stands exactly as it was given,
and applies only to those to whom it was given. R970:2
The strictness with which the Jews were obliged to obey the Law indicates
the amount of reliance which can be placed on its numerous sacrifices and
observances. R72:1; B174
The typical sacrifices continued until Christ died, for Jesus himself was
under the law, a part of which he fulfilled. R5163:3
Note the remarkable similarity with 2 Cor. 3:11. (R.V.) HG584:3*
Till -- Our Savior did not say the Law should not pass away, but that it
should not pass away until it was fulfilled. But he came to fulfill it, so
if it was fulfilled in him, it has passed away. HG582:3*
The observance of all types must be kept up until their fulfillment at
least began; for the keeping of a type is not the fulfillment of it. The
fulfillment is reached when the type ceases, being replaced by the
reality, the antitype. B174; HG55:5
All be fulfilled -- The Law was neither altered nor amended, but
fulfilled and set aside, abolished by our Redeemer. R970:2
Referring not only to its covenant obligations, but that all the blessings
expressed in it typically would also be sure of fulfillment on an
antitypical scale. B174
Including the great Times of Restitution, typified by the Jubilee year.
B173,187; HG55:2
Then the ceremonial, or typical, features of the Law will pass away.
R1527:3
Matthew 5:19
Whosoever -- In the Church class. Q423:1

Shall break -- If any of the followers of Jesus should violate the Ten
Commandments and teach men to do so, it would manifestly be done through
ignorance and misunderstanding, marking such as one of the least in the
Kingdom, unfit for a position of prominence in the service of the Church.
R5007:2
Shall make little of any commandment of God. Q423:1
Whoever will go contrary to God's arrangements or will in any respect, we
should thereby consider him less. Q423:1
Of these commandments -- The divine law is briefly summed up: "Thou
shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart...And thou shalt love thy
neighbor as thyself." (Deut. 6:5; Lev. 19:18; Matt. 22:37-39) R5359:6
The Ten Commandments are but the outer shell, as it were, of deeper
sentiments. R5360:1
In other words, we understand the Master to be teaching that the Gospel is
not out of sympathy with the Jewish Law. R5359:6, 1730:5
The new hope of Gentile Christians does not abrogate God's law, nor does
it release them from the obligations of his law; but our imperfections are
covered by Christ's merit. R5359:3
Shall teach men so -- By example or precept, what is not in fullest
accord with the divine plan. F258; R5359:5
It is a responsible thing to be the mouthpiece of God, to make sure that
not a word is uttered which would misrepresent the divine character and
plan. F258; R2156:3, 1475:3
Those who hold and teach a measure of error when it was their privilege to
have clear truth shall be called least in the Kingdom of heaven. R3243:6
"Be not many teachers." (Jas. 3:1, Revised Version) R2156:2
Shall be called the least -- Receive a lower position. F258; R5007:2,
5359:3
In the kingdom of heaven -- In the Church, the incipient Kingdom, the
embryotic Kingdom. R5359:5
But whosoever -- Our Lord Jesus himself. R1730:5, 5359:5
Shall do -- Those who would keep the divine law most perfectly in heart
and life would be most nearly copies of God's dear Son. R5359:5
"Love is the fulfilling of the law." (Rom. 13:10) R5359:6
And teach -- The Christian must study the Law, but he studies it as a
shadow of better things, as typical of the blessings promised under the
greater than Moses--Christ. HG582:5
Look out amongst you those who are walking the most in the footsteps of
Jesus if you want to elect elder brothers and deacons in the Church. Q423:1
Matthew 5:20
Shall exceed -- To be accepted, his followers must be nearer right in heart,

have more of the spirit of the divine law, than the Pharisees. R5007:4
The Church's covenant means more than merely the observance of the Law; it
is a covenant to sacrifice; and justice, the divine law, could not demand
sacrifice. R5006:6
Of the scribes -- They had the whole Law of God and claimed to believe
and teach it; but they distorted it by their traditions and their ignoble,
though whitewashed, characters. R3243:5
They were particular respecting the little requirements of the Law, but
were careless respecting the spirit of love. This, Jesus termed hypocrisy.
R5007:4
In no case enter into the Kingdom of heaven -- Not be fit for the
begetting at Pentecost. We must distinguish between the embryo Kingdom at
Pentecost and the glorious Kingdom of the first resurrection. R5007:4,
4559:2
Matthew 5:21
In danger of -- Amenable to. R2601:5

The judgment -- The judges. R2601:5, 4558:6
Matthew 5:22
But I say -- Jesus, who understands the perfection of God's law, and how
fully it will be defined and enforced in the Millennium. R2602:1
That the thoughts are to be considered as well as the deeds. HG304:3
Whosoever is angry -- Thereby disobeying the spirit of the command, Thou
shalt not kill. R2601:6
In the heart, unexpressed. R4558:6
Hatred is murder, slander is assassination, and the destruction of a
neighbor's good name is robbery and rapine. R2444:6
For one of the Lord's consecrated people to be even slightly angry would
be a serious matter. R5007:4
Without a cause -- Malicious anger and vituperation shall be considered
a violation of God's law under the New Covenant. R2601:6, 2249:2
Shall be -- Under the regulations of the Millennial Kingdom. R2601:5
In danger of -- Amenable to. R2601:5
As a violator of the Law, whose violation forfeited all right to life
under the Jewish Covenant. HG304:3
Because the spirit of anger is that which, unrestrained, would lead to
murder. R3254:1
The judgment -- The judges; a court of seven (some say 23) men,
empowered to judge some classes of crimes. R2601:5
"I will restore thy judges as at the first." (Isa. 1:26) A294
His brother, Raca -- Villain. R2601:5
Blockhead. R4558:6
A slander is a thief according to worldly standards, stealing one's good
name; according to Christian standards, still higher, slanderers are
murderers. Thus the very suggestion of slander is to be shunned as of the
spirit of Satan. (John 8:44) R3595:4
Of the council -- The High Council or Sanhedrin, of 71 men, the highest
court of the Jews, for the gravest offenses; typical of the judges of the
Millennial Kingdom. R2601:5, 4558:6
Thou fool -- A moral degenerate. R4558:6
Apostate wretch. HG304:4
If, aside from the Bible, one reaches a conclusion that another considers
wholly illogical, neither should he think nor speak of the other as a
fool, but should remember that all present knowledge is incomplete and our
reasoning faculties at present imperfect. R1815:4
Danger of hell fire -- Of Gehenna fire. By the aid of brimstone, the
bodies of specially detestable criminals were burned with the other refuse
of Jerusalem in the valley of Hinnom, or Gehenna, adjoining the city. A
living thing was never cast into Gehenna. The Jews were forbidden to
torture any creature; thus Gehenna typified the Second Death. R2601:2-6,
5007:4, 4558:6; OV362:6; HG304:1; NS840:1
Dead bodies were cast into this valley with the filth of the city, for, in
their estimation, they had no hope of a resurrection--a tomb being to them
an emblem of a resurrection. HG304:3
The destruction of the body in Gehenna after death, figuratively, implied
the loss of the hope of future life by a resurrection. R2601:6
The object of this burning in Gehenna was to make the crime and the
criminal detestable in the eyes of the people, and signified that the
culprit was a hopeless case. R2601:6
If one were angry enough to call a brother Christian "a fool" it would
imply that he were in serious danger of the second death--Gehenna. R5007:4
An antitypical Gehenna outside the New Jerusalem for the offal and trash
of humanity who will refuse all of God's favors, the Second Death. NS841:2
Matthew 5:23
Gift to the altar -- Anything to offer to the Lord, of service, worship

or thanks. R4077:5, 5938:6
Aught against thee -- It should be noted that the one addressed is not
the brother trespassed against, but the trespassing brother. R1694:6
That someone has been wronged by you in thought, word or deed. R4077:5,
5939:1
Matthew 5:24
Leave there thy gift -- Do not think that it will be acceptable to God
while in your hearts, or outwardly, you are practicing injustice toward
others. R5939:1, 5007:4, 4559:1, 4077:5,
Be reconciled to -- Make amends to; apologize in full. R1694:5, 5939:1
Every moment of delay endangers your spiritual standing with the Lord.
R5007:5
Thy brother -- Explanations in full of whatever wrong you have done him.
R4077:6
And offer thy gift -- Assured that in such an attitude of heart the Lord
will be pleased to accept your offering. R4077:6, 5939:1
Matthew 5:25
Agree with -- Appeal for mercy from. R1713:2

Admit that you have come short of the righteous requirements of the divine
law. R1713:3, 4559:2
Thine adversary -- Israel's Law Covenant was really their adversary and
condemned them all. R4559:1, 1713:1 Only the few agreed with the Law
adversary. (John 1:12) R4559:2
The divine Law, which condemns all to death. R1713:3
Quickly -- Before final sentence is pronounced. R1713:2
Whiles thou -- The Jewish people. R1713:2
In the way with him -- While the offer of mercy is made to you as a
nation, through faith in Christ. R1713:3
To get free from that Law obligation, a Jew would have to confess his
shortcomings and accept the sacrifice of Christ. R4559:2
Lest at any time -- Those who did plea for mercy received Christ as the
sent of God, the deliverer from the condemnation of their Law Covenant.
R1713:2
The adversary -- The Law, the demands of which you fail to meet, though
you claim to meet them. R1713:4
To the officer -- To some power that will execute the penalty. R1713:4
Thou be cast into prison -- A position of disfavor. R1713:4
Nationally. Wrath came upon that people to the uttermost. R4559:2
Matthew 5:26
Uttermost farthing -- The forfeiture of the chief blessing at first

offered exclusively to the Jew. R1713:4
They were blinded and cast off from divine favor for a "double." R1713:2
By the end of the Millennium, Israel will have paid. R4559:2
If we have wronged a brother and not made it right, we will be obliged to
suffer the full penalty of our neglect. R5007:5
Matthew 5:28
To lust after her -- Reckoning the intention for the act. R518:4*
To desire to do wrong and merely be hindered by circumstances, is in God's
sight as serious, as criminal, as to have really done that wrong. R4020:4,
3254:1, 1726:5, 971:3
It is not only for the actual transgression that men die, but it is for
the disposition to transgress. The inherited taint renders them unfit to
live because with such a nature they cannot keep God's law. R527:2*
Hath committed adultery -- And he who loves and serves money and spends
time and talent for it, more than in God's service, is an idolater. R971:3
Matthew 5:29
If thy right eye -- A depraved desire as dear as the right eye. R2602:1
Pluck it out -- Gladly part with a pleasure or habit contrary to God's
law, though it be as precious as a right eye or a right hand. HG304:5
Be cast into hell -- Greek, gehenna, utter destruction, the Second
Death. R2601:3, 2602:3
Matthew 5:30
If thy right hand -- A depraved desire as dear as a right hand. R2602:1

Be cast into hell -- Utter destruction, as brute beasts. (2 Pet. 2:12)
R2602:2; NS841:4
As the literal Gehenna was not a place of torment or grief, but
represented utter destruction and hopelessness of those already dead who
were cast into it, so must its antitype teach the same lesson. HG304:5
Matthew 5:33
By them of old time -- The traditions of the ancients. The fact that a
matter is ancient is no positive proof of its correctness. R3737:2
Not forswear thyself -- The Law had something to say respecting the
taking of God's name in vain, and tradition had modified the law and
limited it to false swearing. R3737:3
Matthew 5:34
Swear not at all -- The use of oaths and expletives implies that the
simple statement of the user is not to be believed. Nothing in this would
prohibit the taking of an oath or affirmation in court. R3737:5, 5020:2
The fact that one swears what he says is true implies that he does not
expect his hearer to believe his simple word, and this in turn presupposes
that his word ordinarily is not worthy of belief. R5020:3, 3737:5
Wherever oaths of secrecy are demanded it is safe for God's people to
touch not, taste not, handle not--except as oaths are prescribed by public
law. R1827:6
Matthew 5:35
Neither by Jerusalem -- Which will probably become the capital of the

world. A295
Of the great king -- Jehovah. "His feet shall stand in that day upon the
Mount of Olives." (Zech. 14:4) D647
Matthew 5:37
Yea, yea; Nay, nay -- Tell the truth! Be so truthful in all that you say
that it will be unnecessary to swear to its truthfulness. R5020:3
Neither overstate nor understate the truth. R5020:3
Cometh of evil -- Of the Evil One. R3737:6
Matthew 5:38
An eye for an eye -- Exacting justice of your imperfect fellows

encourages an improper spirit in your own heart. R4559:3
Tooth for a tooth -- This law of absolute justice prevailed amongst the
Jews, Romans and Greeks, and in some respects was more just than modern
laws which enable the wealthy to escape by payment of fines. R3738:1
The way Israel applied this resulted in hardness of heart, a pitiless and
merciless attitude. R4559:2
Strong characters to whom the truth appeals are inclined to carry out the
law of Moses, but we must remember that it is not the time for us to judge
and discipline the world. R5644:5
Matthew 5:39
But I say unto you -- Pointing to the more excellent way--love. (1 Cor.
12:31) R4559:2
Resist not evil -- Do not retaliate. R3738:1, 5898:4
The Church is called out of the world. They are to follow in the footsteps
of Jesus. They are to suffer injustice. Jesus gave himself up to suffer
for the unjust. R5897:2
As followers of Jesus, we, like him, resign our rights rather than try to
get them. To a certain extent we are to permit ourselves to be imposed
upon. R5897:3,5
The other also -- In the indirect sense of not opposing the law; or, if
smitten illegally, as were Jesus and Paul, by kindly expostulating with
the evil-doer, for his own good. R2470:1, 3738:2, 4559:4
Our Lord, when unjustly sentenced, inquired respecting the justice of the
matter. Paul fled some places when persecuted, and in other places
appealed. R5897:6
Not literally, but in your heart, mentally. R4559:4
A figurative expression; willingness to have both cheeks smitten rather
than to do injury to another. OV357:3
Our Lord, when on trial, was smitten, but did not ask to be smitten again.
Figuratively he turned the other cheek, but not literally. R4559:4, 3738:2
Matthew 5:40
Will sue thee -- Has made up his mind to bring suit. R3738:3 Not that it
would be improper to appeal for justice to the law; but, that when the law
has decided the matter against us, we should submit. R5897:5
At the law -- By legal process. R2518:2
Lawfully, even though it may be unjustly. R1735:6; OV357:3
The follower of Jesus is to be thoroughly responsive to all government.
R5005:5
Christians are to be law-abiding, whether they consider the laws just or
unjust. OV357:3; R4559:4
If ever compelled by law to vote, it would be the duty of each to vote
according to his conscientious judgment. R2052:6, 2053:1
If the coat were to be given freely for the asking, the injunction
respecting the law suit to obtain it would be meaningless. R2518:3
Take away thy coat -- If no lawful redress can be obtained. R1735:5
Let him have -- We feel we should report a burglar to the authorities to
shield the public and to check the evil-doer in his wrong course. R5898:1
Thy cloak also -- The revisers translated this to mean that if any one
is disposed to go to law with you and take away your coat, that you should
settle with him, even though it deprive you of your coat and cloak. R3738:3
We are to render up willingly all that the Court might decree, more rather
than less. R2518:2, 4559:4; OV357:3
Matthew 5:41
And whosoever -- Whatever magistrate or governor authorized by law.

R3738:4
Shall compel thee -- Command you legally. R3738:4; OV357:4
We are to show our good will be doing a little more rather than shirk
legal exactions or grumble. R4559:4
If compelled to enter the army, the Christian might properly request
service as a non-combatant; but if required to kill, he is to obey God
rather than men, and not kill. OV358:6
We have been wondering whether our earlier suggested course [the one in
the preceding citation] is the best one, whether it would mean compromise.
R5755:4
To go a mile -- Similar to the law under which Simon the Cyrenian was
compelled to bear the cross of Jesus. R3738:4
Go with him twain -- Do not show a narrow, stingy spirit in complying
with the law's requirements. R3738:5
Matthew 5:42
Give to him -- Not necessarily extravagant gifts, not all that the
petitioner would desire. Judgment and discretion are to be used. R4559:4
The Lord's people might not thus amass as much money as others, but they
would be laying up treasures in heaven. R4559:5
We cannot think that he meant that we should neglect the interests of our
own homes and families in giving in to others, or in loaning to them.
R3738:5
If an enemy demand of us our goods, we are to submit; but if so situated
that we can resist legally, we are to resist any unjust demands, and
compel a suit at law, submitting gracefully and heartily to its decision.
R2518:3
That asketh thee -- Not that we should lend to anybody who asks for a
loan of money or goods, but that we should not turn away from those in
need. R4971:1
That demands your valuables. R2518:3
That would borrow -- Often the very best way is to lend him something,
even if sure that he would not return it, for thus his coming again would
be barred to some extent. Q135:3; R4971:1
Turn not thou away -- We should not turn away with a deaf ear from those
in need. Q135:3; R4971:1
Do good and lend, hoping for no similar favor in return. R4559:5
Exercise a benevolent spirit, using the proper discretion and judgment.
R3738:5
Matthew 5:43
Ye have heard -- Tradition taught. R4559:5

Love thy neighbor -- The word "neighbor" signifies those who are near,
and the Scribes and Pharisees were in the habit of applying this to those
who were near in sympathy, in sentiment, in faith, in sectarian
relationship. R3804:4
Our Lord points out that in merely reciprocating the love of others we
would come far short of the standard he sets us. R3739:1
Hate thine enemy -- Directly contrary to the Mosaic Law which enjoined
protection of an enemy's property. R3738:6
Matthew 5:44
Love your enemies -- Be large-hearted and generous toward them,

illustrated by David's forbearance toward Saul. R3239:6, 3738:6
As God loves the world--sympathetically. OV357:5; R4766:4, 5275:2
God loves his enemies: he provided a sacrifice for them and a
reconciliation with himself. R5703:5 This love is that which ignores
antagonism and animosities, and considers only the possibilities, the ways
and means, for peace, reformation and salvation. R4766:4, 1955:6
Our hearts must be so full of love that not even an enemy could stir up in
our hearts an evil or malicious sentiment. F372
If we have not yet attained this high standard, let us not be discouraged,
but press onward that, as soon as possible, we may reach this point, which
is the mark of perfected character. R2879:5
Not as you love the brethren, but so as to be ready and willing to do good
for them. This is the mark of perfect love. F189, 371; R4470:2; OV357:5
If we have not reached the point of loving our enemies, we are not at the
mark of the prize, because none having a lesser standard can be of the
elect class at all. Q458:T; R3738:6
No one can win the prize unless he loves his enemies. R5953:1
Your enemies, not the enemies of another. Q260:5
In contrast with the spirit of the Holy (?) Inquisition. PD84/97
But all should hate injustice and be out of sympathy with those who
oppress the weak and helpless. Q783:T
Bless them that curse you -- Greek, katara, kataraomai, signifies
condemnation--to speak against, to speak evil of, to injure. R2443:3
Not in the oldest Greek manuscripts. R3738:6
Do good to them -- The best way to conquer an enemy is to convert him
into a friend by kindness. R139:3*
Pray for them -- That we might be used in breaking the superstition upon
them, that the eyes of their understanding might be opened. R5275:3;
OV357:5
Manifest generosity of heart toward them. To attain this sympathy and
generosity is part of our instruction in the school of Christ. R5125:4,
3739:1
"God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for
you." (1 Sam. 12:23) R4201:2
Despitefully use you -- Never mind what a supposed enemy said or did. We
are not living for ourselves but for the Lord. Q459:T
Matthew 5:45
Children of your Father -- If we are sons of God, we must have his

Spirit, his disposition. R3738:6
When we get before our mind's eye the loving and true God as our ideal, we
are more and more changed and transformed day by day as we discern our
Maker's gracious character. R5474:6
"Like unto your Father"--tending to make the heart and mind more tender,
more gentle and more forgiving toward all with whom you have to do. NS674:5
During the Dark Ages, many committed horrible atrocities in the name of
religion, thinking that they were copying God--but they had been following
demon-drawn pictures. R5474:3
And on the unjust -- God has done much for them, even though they are
sinners. R5624:1
At great cost providing for their redemption and restitution. R1821:6
God is gracious, loving, merciful, kind, even to the unthankful, even to
the unjust, even to sinners; so should we be unto all men as we have
opportunity. R5474:5, 2032:1
All that can be made out of the present life and present unfavorable
conditions, the world is welcome to. NS225:2
Matthew 5:46
What reward have ye -- What merit is there in it? R1938:4
Matthew 5:47
And if ye salute -- Extend the civilities of life. R3739:2
Matthew 5:48
Therefore perfect -- Nothing short of purity of heart, intention, will,

can be acceptable to God. R5123:4, 5264:5, 5148:6, 5101:6, 4558:3, 3939:1;
CR395:2; Q51:2
These admonitions apply only to those who are new creatures in Christ; it
is a dark saying and needs to be spiritually discerned. CR391:6,4
We first reach perfection of heart intention; then we pass through
experiences which crystallize our characters in righteousness. R5172:2,
4974:3, 4559:6
God has set no lower standard than absolute perfection, but he has
provided for us grace, mercy and peace through Christ if we walk in his
footsteps. R2587:5
Good heart intention is not sufficient. Our profession of pure heart and
God-likeness must be tested. It must be developed to the point of fixity
of character. R4558:3, 2250:6
The mark of Christian character is godliness, Christ-likeness, love. We
must attain to the same character of love that God possesses and that was
manifested by our Lord Jesus. R2754:1
However, we are to remember that we have the new creature in an earthen
vessel. It is the new creature that must have the likeness of Christ.
Q51:2; R5264:5
We must have love, sympathy, and not merely justice. There is nothing of
grace in the giving of justice; less than justice is wrong. But the Lord's
people must be more than just. SM433:2
But God knows that we have this treasure of the new will in a mortal body
which is imperfect. Through Christ he has made provision that every
imperfection of our flesh may be forgiven. R5101:6, 4974:3, 4558:3,
3987:1, 3739:3
"Walk thou before me and be thou perfect." (Gen. 17:1) R3938:6
Even as your Father -- It was proper that our Lord should give us the
perfect pattern, on the same principle that the teacher of penmanship
furnishes the pupil with the best engraved specimens to copy. R3987:2,
3939:1, 3739:4; Q533:2
Poor results come from comparing ourselves with ourselves, and neglecting
to keep constantly before our minds the perfect copy. R3739:5
God sets before us Himself as the grand copy that we are to follow after.
CR7:4,5; R5794:1, 5148:6; Q533:2; SM434:T
Not that Christians can be all that God's character expresses, but that
this is to be their ideal or aim in life. OV367:3; R5794:1, 5336:5,
5123:4; CR391:6; SM433:2
There is no lower standard than that of perfection. It would not do for
the Lord to say, Be ye slightly like the Father, or, Be ye nearly like
Him. He must present the perfect standard. R5359:6; NS408:2
Are you like your Father? You are in some respects--in your mind. Are you
in all words, actions and thoughts? No, but you are trying to get more and
more of the character-likeness of God. Q246:4
God is love. The more we grow up into proper, spiritual love, the more we
are growing up into the character-likeness of our Father. R5265:6; SM281:T
We are in danger of taking some brother or sister, and saying, I will be
like him, or like her! Q533:2
It is a mistake to think that the Apostle Paul's standards for elders are
to be taken literally, for no one would be found fully up to all the
requirements. He has stated what the ideal elder would be. Q255:7, 248:5,
246:4
The Lord would develop in his consecrated people the spirit of the Father.
R3353:3
Those who attain the character-likeness of Christ will have the
character-likeness of the Father, of whom the Son is the express image.
NS654:3
God could not set an imperfect standard; for Him to do so would mean His
agreement, in measure, with sin. R3939:1, 3739:2
Is perfect -- God is the very personification of purity. R849:1
God's perfection is the standard. He cannot have one standard of
perfection for you, another for me, and another for someone else. Q533:2
Matthew 6
Matthew 6:1
Your alms -- Charity. R5021:2

Your righteousness (Revised Version). R5021:2, 4559:3
To be seen of men -- If we are actuated by a selfish motive, if we are
seeking show and applause or earthly gain, it cannot bring divine approval
or blessing. R5021:2
Lest, while we continue to sacrifice or do any good work, we get to
looking for human instead of divine approval. R955:2*
If you do good deeds for the approval of men, you will very soon get to
doing only such deeds as are likely to bring their approval. R955:2*
There may be times and places where the giving of charity in the presence
of others would be perfectly proper; the point is the motive actuating us.
R5021:2
Have no reward -- None from God; they may or may not get the reward they
seek, human praise. R4559:6
Matthew 6:2
Glory of men -- There are many enrolled in church membership who seek an
earthly reward of Mammon, the praise and approval of men. CR16:5,4
Have their reward -- The publicity, the praise of men, which they
sought. R5021:2, 5786:6
The subtilty of this temptation lies in the fact that those drawn into it
imagine that, while they seek and obtain the praise of men, they also
merit and obtain the favor of God. R955:2*
Matthew 6:3
Doest alms -- Done from principle, love for God and his righteousness,
love or sympathy for fellow man. R4560:1
Let not -- So quietly should this be done that those close to us in life
might only by accident discover our generosity. R4560:1
Matthew 6:5
When thou prayest -- He did not teach the world how to pray, but merely
his disciples. R5021:3
Not only in sorrows, but also in joys; to give thanks, praise, worship and
adoration. R5021:3
We need have no fear that he is too busy with other matters of greater
importance, or that he is weary of our coming to him repeatedly with
things of small importance. R1865:4
As the hypocrites -- Not meaning that all who dress peculiarly, who go
to church, who pray in public, etc., are hypocritical. R4560:1
Matthew 6:6
When thou prayest -- Before whom should we pray? In secret; before

believers (John 17); before believers and unbelievers (Luke 3:21); and in
the public assembly of the saints (Acts 12:12). R3698:5, 2251:6
Neglect of prayer is sure to lead to leanness of soul and lukewarmness in
respect to spiritual things--unfaithfulness, coldness, death. R2692:1
We have no sympathy with the custom of opening political conventions and
legislative assemblies, schools or lodges with prayers. R2023:6
Into thy closet -- Going to the Lord in a formal manner, upon the knees,
and in solitude at certain times. R5480:6
The secret place of prayer of the individual family or Church. F687
Our Lord's usual method was to go to the Father privately. R3351:3
This Scripture should not be taken too literally, for Christ prayed
audibly in the presence of his followers on numerous occasions, and
audible prayer in the Church was counseled by the Apostle Paul. R2252:1
Private apartment. R2649:3, 2501:5, 2023:2
Where no earthly eye will see and no earthly ear will hear. R2251:3
True prayer should be to the Lord, never to the public. Individual prayer,
family prayer, prayer in the Church, is proper and is not considered
public prayer in this sense of that term. R4560:2
Although fellowship in public prayer in gatherings of the Lord's people is
distinctly approved. R5022:1, 2251:6
"The Lord's Prayer" was uttered in the presence of his disciples. It
addresses "Our Father," requests forgiveness for "our sins" as "we forgive
others." It is a sample of collective prayer. R2023:3
"And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain
again to pray; and when the even was come he was there alone." (Matt.
14:23) R5379:6*
Though Jesus sometimes prayed with his disciples in their hearing, he was
not content with merely these opportunities, but frequently sought the
Father alone. R2649:3
To thy Father -- Only believers who have accepted Christ may approach
God in prayer and call him "Father." R2252:3
"Whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name he will give it you"
(John 15:16); "No man cometh unto the Father but by me" (John 14:6).
R2252:3
While Father Adam was created a son of God, he then had access to his
Father. R2024:1
Jehovah is the only Father or giver of the Divine nature. God, the Father
of our Lord Jesus Christ, is our Father and hath begotten us. R297:1
Seeth in secret -- The discovery of X-rays makes this sound more
plausible. R1935:1
"All things are naked and open unto the eyes of him with whom we have to
do." (Heb. 4:13) R1935:2
Matthew 6:7
When ye pray -- Should be to the Lord, never to the public; should be

simple, earnest, and need not be long. R4560:1,2
Vain repetitions -- "Vain" because not based on the conditions necessary
to acceptable prayer. R5311:1
Improper prayer. R3351:6
Formal requests for what we do not expect. R2005:4 Not only vain,
unprofitable, but indicating a low degree of spiritual development,
imperfect ideas respecting God, and an imperfect relationship with him.
R2252:4
We are to recognize a distinct difference between vain repetitions of the
heathen and "continuing instant in prayer," in "praying and not fainting."
(Rom. 12:12; Luke 18:1) Q539:2
But we do right to pray, "Thy Kingdom come" week after week, year after
year, century after century. To grow faint or weary in prayer would not be
right. R5020:2; Q539:4
As the heathen -- With great supplications, as though their God was
asleep or indifferent. R5219:3
With their praying wheels, Roman Catholics with their beads, and some
Protestants with their long details of instructions to the Almighty.
R2252:4, 5020:4, 5022:4; Q540:2,3
All the heathen or Gentiles who have not left the world and come into
covenant-relationship with God through Christ. R5021:6
Their much speaking -- Prayer in private may be as long as we please;
but prayer in public should be short and to the point. R5020:5
Evidencing ambition to be thought pious, effort to make an impression upon
men rather than to hold communion with the Heavenly Father. R2252:3
His example of a prayer is brief. Nevertheless, in proportion as we feel
the importance of the great work in which we are privileged to be
co-laborers, our hearts should and will be drawn to seasons of spiritual
communion. R2650:1
We have no sympathy with the custom of some of pretending to pray to God
while really addressing the congregation. R2023:6
Therefore let us endeavor to present God's truth in all its native
simplicity and beauty, and trust its inherent power to win its way in due
time into every heart. R651:4*
Matthew 6:8
Your Father -- "God dealeth with you as with sons." (Heb. 12:7) The fact
that we are called sons of God implies the beginning of a new life.
R5624:2, 5623:5
The multitudes were not to call God "Father," only those who were
followers of the Lord Jesus. R5623:3
Neither a Jew, nor one of the world today, has a right to call God his
Father, nor to think of Him as his Father. R5219:1
Jesus spoke in an anticipatory or prophetic sense as to their relationship
with God. R5623:2
Knoweth -- We are not to tell God what we wish, but to give up our will,
that His will be done. R5624:3
Our prayers are not to induce God to give us things He desires to withhold
from us, but to secure the things He desires us to have and has promised
to us. R2252:6
He has fullest knowledge of our needs. R5745:4
We do not need to take up in prayer all the affairs of the world and the
affairs of the Church, to tell God about them and how they ought to be
regulated. R2252:5
What things -- Some might declare that we should ask God for something
definite, but God has said that we need not go into particulars. R5624:5
Whether you will be most profited by abundance of wealth or absence of
wealth, in the possession of health or otherwise. R5624:3
Ye have need of -- The Lord does not say that his followers shall have
as much of these temporary good things as others have. SM370:2
Present supplies and rations may be small; but oh, what riches of grace
are in reservation for them that love God. NS466:5
If proud, experiences that would humble; if rude, experiences that would
make more polite. R5219:6
If we need to be transplanted to another place, he can arrange it. R5991:2
Before ye ask him -- But he desires us to ask in order that we may
realize our need of his aid and our dependence upon him and be brought
into closer fellowship with him. R2252:5, 5219:3
To bring us into that attitude of mind and heart of readiness to receive
his blessings. R5745:4, 5022:1, 5834:1
Therefore not asking for resuscitation or special strength as our Lord did
not, but accepting such favors as the Father might grant to us
unsolicited. R3718:2
As the Christian's experience grows, he comes more to the condition of
heart where his prayers will be chiefly thanks for mercies and favors
already received. R2252:5
Matthew 6:9
After this manner -- Not a form to repeat, but merely an example of how
to arrange our prayers. R4560:2, 5311:4, 5022:1, 4984:4, 3806:4, 3351:6
In a worshipful, reverent spirit. R3806:3
But not necessarily in those words. R4560:2
Note its brevity, its simplicity, its directness, its orderliness. R5022:1
The order of the prayer is beautiful--the chief thing is the glory of God
and the outworking of the divine plan, then physical needs. R4560:2,4,
3807:3, 3352:1
There are seven petitions in what is commonly called the "Lord's prayer."
R136:2*
Therefore pray ye -- Ye who are his sons, not "children of wrath" (Eph.
2:3) or "of your father, the devil" (John 8:44). R2252:6
There is a great blessing that comes from prayer; we are so constituted
that reverence for God and desire for prayer are among the highest
qualities of our nature. R5311:6,5
Not only should we have special seasons of prayer, but have the spirit of
prayer in all of life's affairs. R5312:1
Prayer is a privilege. Jesus did not command his disciples to pray, nor
did he even give them a form of prayer until they requested it. R5021:3
Notice that our Lord never taught the multitudes to pray, nor intimated
that they should pray--even though the multitudes with whom he was in
contact were nominally the people of God. R3805:2
Our Lord did not tell about how the world should pray. R5021:3
School children should not be taught to repeat the "Lord's prayer." R2023:6
Our Father -- The affection of a true father for his child, one of the
most precious in the world, is used to illustrate the relationship of the
Lord's consecrated to the Creator. R3352:1
"To as many as received him, to them gave he the privilege to become the
sons of God." (John 1:12) R3352:1
Only the consecrated spirit-begotten can call God "Our Father." CR421:1,
499:5; R5022:1, 5833:5, 5834:4,5
We suppose that the children of believers, and tentatively justified
believers not yet consecrated, would have the right of addressing the
Redeemer in prayer. R3806:3; F681:3
The word "Our" implies a recognition that there are other sons who also
have been adopted into God's family. R3805:5
While Jesus was here in the flesh, the disciples were sons in the
prospective sense. R5834:4
No Jew then ever made use of such expressions; they were a house of
servants. R5683:6, 3352:1
This prayer would assure the apostles that, though they were Jews, God
recognized them now, not as servants, but as sons. R3352:1
The great Jehovah is the fountain of life. All life emanates from him
alone. CR498:1
We may consider ourselves, in God's estimation, reinstated (through faith
in Christ) to the original position as sons of God. R1864:6
Implies: (1) faith in the divine being; (2) realization of dependence on
him; (3) faith in reconciliation through a Redeemer; and (4) realization
that the Creator now accepts one as a son. R3805:3
Implies that the suppliant is on terms of intimate acquaintance with the
great Creator of the Universe, so that he is welcomed into the divine
presence and heart. R3805:3
Does not imply the fatherhood of God to all mankind. R2252:6
The prayer of the publican, approved by our Lord, did not address Jehovah
as "Father," but as "God"--"God be merciful to me a sinner." (Luke 18:13)
R2251:3
They were to manifest their faith by calling themselves sons of God,
though they did not really speak of themselves as sons of God. R5219:2
Some people use the words "Our Father" or "Our God" or "Heavenly Father"
more frequently than would seem to be good form. It would sound better if
they did not use these repetitions. R5020:4; Q539:6
Which art in heaven -- As the heavens are higher than the earth so are
the Lord's ways and provisions higher than our conceptions; and in every
way to be preferred. R3805:6
Hallowed be thy name -- Considering first the will and honor of God as
superior to their own and every other interest. R3352:3
Reverence for God should be first in all our thoughts, but is losing
ground everywhere in our day, even among the Lord's true people. R3352:2,
4560:4, 5624:5
This expresses adoration, appreciation of divine goodness and greatness,
and a corresponding reverence. R3352:2
The desire that the great name of God be hallowed by all, and therefore by
the petitioner also. R4560:4
Adored, honored. God's name represents His character, His Kingdom, His
personality. R5022:2
Profound reverence for the glorious character and attributes of God.
R1864:6
His name stands for everything that is just, wise and loving. R3806:4
Matthew 6:10
Thy kingdom come -- Our Lord taught "the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand."
The Kingdom in its embryo condition was then at hand, but the Kingdom is
yet to come in glory and power. R1908:3, 2231:1, 4410:4; B14
The Kingdom of God's dear Son--the Millennial Kingdom--the Mediatorial
Kingdom. NS729:5, 744:1
With the establishment of that Kingdom will come the blessing of the world
through the Mediator and the New Covenant. NS557:6
"My Kingdom is not of this world (age)." (John 18:36) NS623:6
Messiah's Kingdom has various stages of inauguration. First, in his
parousia, the resurrection of the sleeping saints; next, his dealing with
the living members of his body and their glorification; then the dominion
of the world, revealed in a great time of trouble. Thus, the Kingdom of
Messiah will be born in a terrible travail, after which "The desire of all
nations shall come." (Hag. 2:7) Ciii,iv
Christ has not yet come into this Kingdom for which he taught us to pray.
NS575:6
Very soon to be answered; very soon they, the Christ, shall be associated
in his Kingdom and sit upon his throne. NS191:6
Implies: (1) that it is not already here; (2) that it is a part of the
divine provision; and (3) that it is one of the chief desires for God's
people and for humanity. HG438:2
The establishment of the long-promised Kingdom of Messiah is just before
us, and is now in progress. B363
An acknowledgment that God's will is not done on earth, that his Kingdom
has not come to earth as yet. R2253:1, 5761:6, 5710:4, 4786:2; Div; NS691:2
An acknowledgment that he has faith in the divine promise that a heavenly
Kingdom shall, in God's due time, be established in the earth. R2253:1
It cannot be established until the gathering of the elect has been
accomplished. CR21:5; Q523:5; NS664:3, 831:4; HG234:6, 178:5, 145:3, 115:2
The complete overthrow of all human government will open the way for the
full establishment of the Kingdom. Biii
It began to be established in 1878 AD. R1908:3
While continuing to pray, let us continue to labor in
character-preparation that we may be found worthy of a place in that
Kingdom. R5762:2, 3352:4
Meantime the great King is selecting the Bride class to be joint-heirs
with his Son in that Kingdom. NS465:6, 803:2, 661:5
Longing for the Kingdom that will bless the world, they also long for the
promised privilege of being joint-heirs with their Redeemer. R3806:5,
3352:4; NS451:2, 389:1, 235:1, 141:5
This thought will make all the afflictions and trials of the present time
seem to us light afflictions. R3352:4; NS236:2
That it might come as quickly as would be in harmony with the divine
program; not implying impatience, nor a desire to hasten matters before
the divine time, but an interest in the gracious things of the Father's
plan. NS683:3
Not a demand; rather an acknowledgment of faith in the divine promise that
a heavenly Kingdom shall in due time be established in the earth. R2253:1,
2005:1
All blessings are of the Father. E45
Realizing that his Kingdom is the very thing the whole world needs, and
that he has promised that it shall come. R5624:5
When the regeneration of the world will be the great matter in hand.
NS102:3, 184:5
As God, his glory and honor, are to be first in the minds of his children,
so their next thought should be for the glorious Kingdom which he has
promised shall bless the world. R3352:3
Next in order we acknowledge the divine rule, authority. This means that
our hearts are submissive to the will of God. R5022:2
Not merely saying, "Thy Kingdom come," but waiting for it and expecting
it. R5624:6
Nearly all of the Lord's parables and teachings related to this Kingdom.
NS606:3, 627:1
Present troubles are the harbingers of this Millennium. NS187:6, 672:5
Its worldwide dominion is signified by the stone which struck
Nebuchadnezzar's image. NS27:6, 57:5
The panacea for every ill and trouble, not only for ourselves, but for all
men. R3352:3, 5602:1; SM103:1; Ciii
Both Jews and saintly Christians still recognize that Messiah's Kingdom is
the need and hope of the world. OV156:2
The coming of a great earthly king to a city is the signal for a general
cleaning up everywhere. NS852:6
If Christendom had heard the message of the antitypical Elijah, they would
be ready to welcome his Kingdom; they would have been praying from the
heart what some of them have been praying from the lips. NS143:5
Divine love now permits human pride and selfishness to wreck present
civilization because divine wisdom and love, in "due time," will take
advantage of the wreck and the lessons it will teach by establishing upon
the ruins of present institutions the Kingdom of God's dear Son. NS13:5
The object of which will be that the world may have a trial to determine
whether, with the knowledge and experience then granted, they will choose
righteousness and the reward of eternal life, or sin and its penalty,
Second Death. NS860:2
Not such a reign which papacy recognized as the millennial past, nor the
moderate Protestant view that Christ established his Kingdom at Pentecost.
HG271:1-3
While appreciating our glorious land and its wonderful blessings, let us
rejoice that a still better government and still more favorable conditions
are parts of the heavenly promise to the world of mankind. NS665:6
Thy will -- In respect to all of life's affairs. SM371:T
Not now being exerted or manifested in earth's affairs. R1781:2,5
Implies that we have given up our own will. R5833:5, 3352:4
It is not for us to seek to have our wills done in heaven and earth, but
rather to learn the imperfection of our judgment and pray, "Thy will be
done." NS648:2
Messiah's reign will be a Monarchy, a very exclusive and aristocratic
Monarchy. It will be the most autocratic--theocratic; the will of its
subjects will not be consulted in the slightest particular. OV191:2
Men sometimes mean, "Approve my will on earth as I approve your will in
heaven"--deceiving themselves. NS673:5
Be done -- In respect to all of life's affairs. SM371:T; CR51:1
Right and truth must and shall prevail when our Kingdom has been
established, however feeble now may be the voices lifted in their defense.
R3068:4
Confessing appreciation of the fact that present evil is not of his will,
nor of his government. R1781:6, 1273:4
Wishing that this will rule in his heart to the best of his ability in his
earthly condition, even as he hopes to have it perfected in the Kingdom.
R3352:5
If we pray this, we should live accordingly. C22
We should have in mind God's promise that eventually, through Messiah's
Kingdom, sin and death would be overthrown and "every knee would bow and
every tongue confess to the glory of God." R5049:3
The declaration is that Messiah shall reign until he shall have put down
all insubordination. (1 Cor. 15:25,26) OV192:2
It will take the whole thousand years of Christ's reign to have the will
of God done on earth as it is in heaven. CR291:5; R5768:5; SM502:1; Q6:T;
OV192:3
In earth -- The new earth will be the new social order which will come
into being at that time under the direction and guidance of the new
heavens. PD94/108
We are not to feel careless respecting the interests of the world in
general. NS644:2
Many Christians seem to have forgotten the import of these words. B13
As it is in heaven -- The new spiritual heavens of the future will be
Christ and the Church in heavenly glory and power. PD94/108
Is God's will in Christendom done "on earth as it is in heaven"? Surely
not. HG272:2
None will claim that conversion of the whole world to the present standard
of Christendom would answer this petition. C178
Messiah's Kingdom will insure that, to all eternity, God's will shall be
done as perfectly in this earth as it is now done in heaven. OV341:8,
247:1; Civ
Matthew 6:11
Give us -- There are occasional scriptural dyspeptics who eat and work
not; but the difficulty with most professing Christians is that they eat
not at all, or else eat so sparingly that they are dying of starvation.
R23:5*
God knows what we have need of; it is not for us to specify, spiritual or
temporal food. R5624:5, 4560:4, 5022:4
Showing our reliance upon him for that which he has promised us. R4984:4
Should divine providence fail to make provision, the believing soul is to
recognize that it is not from oversight or lack of power, but because
divine wisdom sees best thus to deal with us. R5022:4
This day -- Not for a superabundance laid up for many days ahead. R2253:2
We cannot understand how any Christian dare neglect to render thanks for
daily food. Those who do neglect this propriety are great losers thereby.
R2643:6
Our daily bread -- "Our needful bread." (American Revision)
R3806:5
The necessities of life, temporal and spiritual. R3806:5; CR468:3
It is the new creature that is offering this petition; implying that it is
the nourishment of the new creature that is chiefly under consideration.
R3806:5
The thought seems to be that of continual dependence upon the Lord, day by
day, for the things needed--food, raiment, all things necessary. R3352:5
We are to ask especially for the spiritual bread, praying only
incidentally for the earthly things, because we have consecrated our
bodies to God. R5745:5, 3806:5, 2253:3
It is certain that we need spiritual bread, the truth, constantly, in
order that our spiritual life be sustained, as that we need natural bread
daily to sustain our physical life. R136:3*
We are not to ask for delicacies. R5311:4, 5833:5, 3806:5, 3352:6, 2253:2,
2005:2
Not specifying what would be most pleasing to our palate. We are to leave
that part to him, merely acknowledging that we are dependent on him for
the necessities of life. R5991:5, 5745:5
The most that we should do is to make mention to him of those promises for
temporal provision and of our trust in them. R5205:5
We are to eat with thankfulness, even if only bread and water. R5311:3,
4913:5, 5202:4
And not murmuring, as the Israelites of the Exodus, stipulating that they
wanted something as good as the flesh-pots of Egypt. R4012:2
Matthew 6:12
Forgive us our debts -- Our trespasses. F403

Not Adamic sins, but personal transgressions. R3806:5, 5006:1, 5089:3,
5022:4, 3353:1; Q649:2
God did not forgive original sin, but provided a Redeemer. R4428:4,
4560:5, 3806:6
Those which are ours after we have become new creatures in Christ. R3806:6
Shortcomings, imperfections, etc., through failure to do the Lord's will
the best we know how, the culpability being proportionate to the amount of
knowledge enjoyed. R5962:3, 4560:5, 5311:4; Q649:2
To petition the Lord for forgiveness of sins implies that we are, at
heart, opposed to the sins. R3353:1
This petition signifies that we recognize that the robe of Christ's
righteousness granted to us has become spotted or sullied, and that we
desire it to be cleansed. R3353:2
In so doing we learn: (1) to keep track of our blemishes; (2) to be
reminded of our dependence on the merit of our Savior; and (3) to be
merciful, compassionate and generous toward our debtors. R3807:1
Seeking meanwhile to minimize these trespasses, to be so faithful that
these will become daily less and less. R4684:1
Divine mercy is pleased to remit the guilt of all unintentional sins.
R4560:5
As we forgive -- The very essence of Christian principle is love,
sympathy, and the forgiveness of the faults of others. We may not express
forgiveness until forgiveness is asked, but should always be in a
forgiving attitude. R2253:3,4
Let every Christian, in approaching the throne of grace, daily inquire of
his own heart, whether or not he has forgiven those who are indebted to
him. R2253:4
Only the merciful shall obtain mercy; only the forgiving shall be
forgiven. R5022:4, 5004:1, 4585:3, 4560:5, 4428:4, 3803:1
Tending to make our hearts and minds more tender, more gentle, more
forgiving toward all with whom we have to do. NS674:6
As we are imperfect and cannot keep the divine law, so likewise others are
imperfect. R3353:3
If fully appreciated, it would influence God's sons to be kind and
generous in thought as well as in word and deed. R2005:2
Does not imply that we should pay no attention to the transgressions of
others against ourselves, that we should not recognize offenses. R2253:4
If, at heart, we treasure up resentment against others, we shall not be
forgiven ourselves. R5123:3, 5624:5
The amount of one's likeness to the Lord, in love, will be shown by his
mercy and generosity of thought, word and deed toward his fellows. F404
Our debtors -- Those who trespass against us. R3353:3
Not the forgiveness of financial indebtedness and destruction of our bank
account books, except for the debtor willing, but unable, to pay. R2253:4
Matthew 6:13
Lead us not into -- Abandon us not in (Diaglott). R2005:3, 3716:1

To abandon us there, to leave us in our own strength. R5022:5, 3939:5
Not signifying that we fear God will tempt us, but that we entreat him to
guide us so that no temptation come upon us too severe for us. R3353:4
(Merely), but (also) deliver us from the evil one. It is a part of the
divine arrangement to bring us, or permit us, to be put into positions of
trial or testing. R2253:5
God is permitting the adversary to bring strong delusions upon the world
and nominal church because it is time to completely separate wheat from
tares. R3353:5
"God tempteth no man." (Jas. 1:13) R2253:5 Temptation -- How foolish to
pray thus, and not watch! R3939:5
While we must be brought into positions of trial and testing, we may well
pray not to be abandoned there, not to be left to our own strength.
R5022:4, 4907:5
Deliver us from evil -- From the Evil One, who is ever ready to attack
us to the extent that the Lord grants the opportunity. R3807:2, 5022:5,
5311:4; NS94:6
The Evil One and his helpers are more than a match for humanity. NS127:1
Temptations from those with whom we have contact, the powers of evil, of
the air, of our own flesh. R5833:5
There was never a time when there was greater need of this petition than
at present. R3353:5
As we thus pray, we surely will labor in the same direction. R3353:5
If the Lord shall not see best to grant a prompt response, we may be sure
it is not from lack of interest in our welfare. Let faith hold her
anchorage that the time will not be long until the Millennial Kingdom,
when the great adversary will be bound and deliverance granted, not only
to ourselves, but also to all. R2653:4
For thine is the kingdom -- These words, to the end of the verse, are
not in the oldest Greek manuscripts, the Sinaitic and the Vatican.
R2253:6, 5022:5, 1865:3, 710:6, 278:2
The Kingdom or rule of the present time is not of God. Properly omitted by
the Revised Version as being no part of the Scriptures. R5022:5
Added at a time when an earthly exaltation of the Church had led some to
believe that the Papal glory was the glory of God's Kingdom. R2005:3
Matthew 6:14
If ye forgive -- Like the father of the prodigal, to see the repentant

one coming in the attitude of humility will touch our hearts and prompt us
to go out part way to meet him, to forgive him, to greet him kindly and
put on the robe of fullest fellowship and brotherhood. R4978:4, 2296:4
God will be no more generous to us and our imperfections than we are
generous toward our brethren in their imperfections. R4651:4
In order to give us an education in forgiveness and sympathy toward the
world. R5275:2
We are too inclined to look only at the justice of God's character, copy
it and deal severely with our debtors; he would make it clear that the
grandest elements of his character are love, sympathy, kindness and
forbearance. R4651:4
Also forgive you -- God is ready to forgive the loving and generous who
are seeking to copy his character. R4651:4, 2586:6, 2587:1
Only the merciful shall obtain mercy; and if we have not mercy at the
hands of the Lord, all is lost. R2587:1
What an incentive to sympathy and generosity and forgiveness is here!
R4560:5
Matthew 6:15
If ye forgive not -- We should not insist upon having from others abject
acknowledgment of everything that is wrong. R5275:1, 4978:4
We should always exercise forgiveness and good will toward all, no matter
how serious the trespass against us. R4978:4
Forgiveness "in your hearts" is the condition which should always obtain
there. We should never harbor any other feeling no matter how seriously
they have trespassed against us. R2296:4
Neither will -- None will gain a place in the Kingdom class, in the
Bride Class, except they have this forgiving quality of love. R3353:4
Your Father forgive -- Forgive now, but blot out in the First
Resurrection. R3729:6, 2970:5
The Lord declines to forgive our trespasses unless we exercise the spirit
of mercy toward our fellowmen. "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall
obtain mercy." (Matt. 5:7) R4558:2
Matthew 6:16
When ye fast -- Fasting, under the Jewish dispensation, was a symbol of

self-denial, and sacrificing under the Christian dispensation. R955:3*
We have good New Testament precedent for the observance of literal fasts.
R2022:5
Not a disapprobation to fasting. To the contrary, he is endorsing it as a
propriety. R4858:1
Fasting is specially commendable to the Lord's people when they find
themselves lacking in spirituality. R4858:5
To be seen of the Lord and not of man. R4858:2
Subordinating the flesh that one might be spiritually strengthened. R4858:1
It would be a very good thing for all of the Lord's people to follow the
Lenten custom of fasting, doing so with as little outward demonstration as
possible. R4858:5
A very plain diet, if not total abstinence, for a season. R4858:6
But not as -- There is a danger along this line in the observance of the
Lenten season by some, but it may not be hypocritical with all. R4858:5
The hypocrites -- Drawing near to the Lord with their lips, while their
hearts are far from him. R4858:4
Sad countenance -- Not with long faces to show piety, but cheerfully.
R4858:1
If their fasting had brought them nearer to their Heavenly Father, it
should have had a happifying effect, which would have shown itself in the
countenance. R4858:2
Disfigure their faces -- Giving them a drawn appearance. NS154:3
That they may appear -- Do not go about with a sad countenance telling
everyone that you are carrying a very heavy cross. That is not presenting
your sacrifice to the Lord, but before men. R955:4*
Have their reward -- The praise of men. R5786:6
They are getting the approval of the ignorant and easily deceived. NS154:3
Let us take heed that we do not barter away the heavenly approval, crown
and glory for the mean rewards of this present life. R955:6*
Matthew 6:17
Wash thy face -- Bear the cross cheerfully, with a hearty good will.
R955:5*
Matthew 6:19
Lay not up -- It requires considerable determination to draw the line

and say to business and the various responsibilities pressing upon us,
Thus far shalt thou go and no farther. R732:4*
Trust in the Lord and don't put all your confidence in banks, insurance
companies or stock exchanges. Q344:4
Treasure upon earth -- Pleasure, delight, joy, comfort are all suggested
by the word treasure. Our thoughts, hopes and plans center there. Our
treasure is the inspiration of our lives, the incentive to energy,
perseverance and endurance for the hope which it enkindles. R5862:1
Earthly things are to be merely servants always ready for use, for any
emergency. R4567:2
Only by making wealth a treasure and setting upon it inordinate desire can
one become miserly or very rich. R4567:2
None of these earthly possessions can any longer be their treasures or in
any sense stand in competition with the Lord. F574
Christians have renounced the earth. OV357:6
Doth corrupt -- Death and corruption touch everything earthly, under
present conditions. R4567:1
Wealth may vanish in an hour; fame may change to censure at the caprice of
fickle, public sentiment; friends may prove untrue or even treacherous;
even the love that glowed on the home-altar may flicker and become
uncertain or extinct. R1820:2
The treasures of wealth, fame, social distinction, houses, lands, friends,
home, family, power and influence are all subject to change and decay.
R5862:1
Matthew 6:20
But lay up -- Signifying so loose a handling of worldly riches as would

hinder the accumulation or preservation of great wealth. R4567:2
Our heavenly treasures may be augmented by special zeal and faithfulness
under the peculiar trials of the present time. R5863:2
By buying back moments and hours from worldly matters, social frivolities
and various time-killing devices, we are getting an excellent bargain.
NS468:6
Treasures in heaven -- A future reward. OV357:T
The chiefest of all treasures is the personal love and friendship of God
and Christ. R5862:4, 1820:3
The honor and privilege of our calling to be "the Bride" should make that
the supreme treasure, in comparison with which every other treasure is
insignificant. R874:3, 2628:2
Treasures of friendship, of love, of esteem for the sake of our works, of
experience that will serve us eternally, of wisdom that will enrich us
forever, of divine approval. R1514:1*
Including the marks of just approval and distinction, treasures of mind
and character and all the true and noble friendships which have been
founded in truth and righteousness. R5863:2, 1821:2
Treasures of mind and character; for nothing that is good, true and worthy
of preservation shall be lost. R1821:5
Doth corrupt -- Neither the lapse of time nor the exigencies of
circumstance will be permitted to wrest these from us. R1821:5
Matthew 6:21
Where your treasure is -- A treasure is something in which we take

special pleasure and delight. It is in our thoughts, plans and hopes, an
inspiration to our lives and an incentive to energy. R1820:1, 874:2
That which costs us most and which we give most for, we love most; and
thus it is proved to be our treasure. R874:6
Will your heart be -- Those who set their affections chiefly upon
earthly things can with difficulty avoid the snares that go with them.
R5323:1
Not that a man may not love his wife or children, or appreciate the
beauties of nature, but these can no longer be his treasure in competition
with the Lord. F574
"Each heart will seek and love its own; my goal is Christ, and Christ
alone." F573
Matthew 6:22
Thine eye be single -- To the Lord's glory. R1849:4

Signifying singleness of purpose, of heart intention toward God; clearness
of spiritual vision depends upon this. R4445:1, 4567:4
Adjusting your vision to see the great value of the future life in
comparison with the present one, and setting your affection there. R4567:2
We have two eyes of our understanding--one a present and one a future
outlook, an earthly and a heavenly view. It is important that we get these
rightly adjusted to see matters in their true light. R4567:2
Some are cross-eyed, endeavoring to serve two masters, and to walk
according to two standards. R4445:4
Full of light -- We have clearness of spiritual vision in proportion as
we have loyalty to the Lord and the enlightening influence of his spirit
of holiness, the spirit of love. R4445:2
Matthew 6:23
The light -- The holy Spirit, the way of truth. R5099:6, 4399:1
We should let it shine upon men; some who once hated the message have thus
been convinced. R4746:3
In thee -- Refers only to the Church class. R5099:6
Originally man had a clear eye, mental as well as physical. R5797:5
Be in darkness -- If the light of the holy Spirit of our begetting
becomes extinguished. R5099:6, 4445:1, 371:6; E264, 294
Implying unfaithfulness. R3437:4
Showing the importance of proper spiritual sight in order to discern truth
clearly. R5797:5
Calling darkness light and light darkness. (Isa. 5:20) R1800:4
Blessings, misused, may be turned into a curse. R1850:6
By reason of sin, man's discernment of right and wrong have been more or
less blurred. R5797:5
The darkness not only affects people intellectually, but morally, blunting
their sense of right and wrong. R4586:4
In certain instances, God will force people out of the light into the
"outer darkness" common to the world in general. Disloyalty to the Lord
tends in this direction. R4445:2
How great -- Both to yourself and to the world, from whom the light is
thus obscured. E294
There are different shades of darkness. R5099:5
It would be better not to have known the way of truth than to have
departed from the holy command. R4399:1, 3786:1
Is that darkness -- The influence for evil of such an enlightened one,
sanctified by the truth and then seduced by Satan, is more than doubled.
E294
Such a mind will be in a worse condition than that of a worldly mind.
Having lost the fear of man, if they lose also the mind of the Lord, they
have no fixed principle to govern their course. R5100:4,2, 5797:5,6,
4567:3,4, 4446:1, 4445:3, 4399:1
If any fail to go on in the development of the spirit of love, they will
surely retrograde. R4445:6
Comparable to re-entering a dimly-lit room from one that is brilliantly
lighted; the room seems darker than when we left it. R5100:2
A darkness that will only become the more intense as one slips and slides
along the backward track. R3103:5
He loses all knowledge of the "mystery"--the peculiar relationship
existing between Christ and the Church. (Eph. 3:3-6) R5100:2
Matthew 6:24
Serve two masters -- Dividing the interests between God's affairs and
the affairs of self--half-hearted service. R5666:3
"A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways." (Jas. 1:8) C221
No one can possibly render full service to two opposing masters. R5666:2,
5344:2
"This one thing I do." (Phil. 3:13) He concentrated his time, his thought,
his energy, upon this one object or goal. HG453:2
Whoever divides his heart, whoever attempts to serve the interests of
several equally, will surely fail. HG453:3; NS617:2
"His servants ye are to whom ye render service." (Rom. 6:16) If our lives
are in harmony with sin and unrighteousness, we are not on the Lord's side
but on the devil's side. NS368:2
No two interests are so completely one that the service of either would
not more or less detract from the service of the other. R5344:2
Folly consists in supposing that one can win the world's prizes of honor
and wealth, and at the same time run faithfully for the great prize of
glory, honor and immortality. C221
While we are not to do anything contrary to the divine law, yet we are to
serve our earthly masters faithfully. They have purchased our time, or a
large measure of it. R5666:6
Despise the other -- Such a half-way course fails to meet the world's
approval and to gain the advantages of this present life. If we believe it
would pay best to serve mammon, then we should serve mammon with all our
hearts. HG453:3; NS617:2
Ye cannot serve God -- Man was originally God's servant, naturally so.
R5666:2
Only a few now are properly fearing and serving the Lord. NS396:6; CR9:3
But merely use mammon and the advantages of life as special assistances
leading on to God. HG453:4; NS617:3
And mammon -- The mammon principle, the selfish principle, is of Satan.
R5344:5
There are two kinds of love in the world--love for the world versus love
for God. The two are opposites to such a degree that they cannot be
blended. We must be on one side or on the other. HG551:1
Mammon was the name of an ancient Syrian god--the god of riches, of
cupidity, the impersonation of worldliness. R5896:5
Mammon's empire is the world: it is Confucian, Mohammedan, Greek Catholic,
Roman Catholic, Episcopal, Presbyterian, Methodist, according to the
locality and influence. It is the ideas of the majority, and too wise and
crafty to be irreligious. CR9:3; NS397:1
The spirit of the world, selfishness, avarice, and love of wealth. R5896:5
Sectarianism, the fear of man that bringeth a snare. CR9:5
Earthly advantages and comforts, the attainment of which appears to be the
main object in life; in Christendom. R2259:1
Those who serve mammon get the best in the political, ecclesiastical,
social and financial spheres. R5344:3
The majority are serving mammon, seeking to have its approval and
emoluments. CR9:3
Worldly wealth. T93
The Balaam spirit; to be a servant of God and seek the rewards of an
opposite course. R5323:1
Typified by the golden calf made by Aaron. R3047:4, 1836:1
Wherever the love of money or honors or luxuries becomes the ruling
passion in those who are professedly God's people, it has usurped God's
place. Such are idolaters. R2459:5, 1836:1
Matthew 6:25
Take no thought -- This does not mean that the Lord's followers are to
be negligent about their appearance, or the provision of food; but,
realizing that luxuries may not be the best for them, they are to be
content with such things as they have. R5220:1,2, 873:3
Fear and anxiety are amongst the most serious foes of our human family;
they produce nervous exhaustion and are very injurious to health. R5874:3
We should recognize a wide difference between carelessness and anxious
care. Joseph in Egypt laid up wheat in plentiful years to make provision
for the seven years of famine. F573
There is a carefulness which is entirely proper, yea, necessary, on our
part, but not this extreme worry, the inability to enjoy today because of
fears respecting tomorrow. R5874:6, 4567:5, 2488:2, 873:2,3
Not that they should live from "hand to mouth" and be utterly regardless
of the future. F572
Having brought children into the world, it becomes the duty of the parents
to see to their reasonable and proper establishment in it. F578; R874:1
For your life -- Greek, psuche, soul, being. E335
What ye shall eat -- He spoke generally to the poor, and the poor in
Palestine and other Eastern countries find it very difficult to obtain
food and clothing. R5990:5, 5220:1
Eating, drinking and dressing seem to be the most engrossing thoughts of
both rich and poor. R5220:2
We should be ready to share our last loaf or last dollar with any more
needy than we. R873:6
Is not the life -- Our eternal life. If wise, we will seek the future
life at any cost, at any sacrifice of the present one. R4567:4
More than meat -- He would have us absorbed in heavenly things; and to
do this he sees that we must be freed from distress of mind with reference
to earthly things. R873:3
Matthew 6:26
They sow not -- They know not how to sow or reap, or the lilies how to
spin. They get their food and the lilies their glory in God's appointed
way for them. So man must get his food in God's appointed way for him.
R2804:6*, 2488:2
Feedeth them -- We should consider our Heavenly Father's provision for
the fowl of the air and realize that he provides for our best interests
also. R4567:5
Better than they -- Will not God much more care for us who have become
his children through faith in Christ? R4567:5
Matthew 6:27
Can add one cubit -- Let us realize our own littleness and look rather
to the Lord for the things of the present as well as the future life.
R4567:5
Matthew 6:28
Consider the lilies -- Learn of the Creator by the things created.

R3313:1
A common reddish flower, not the kind generally termed lilies, but very
beautiful. R5875:1, 5991:1
Our Lord, as was his custom, drew an illustration of something familiar to
all his hearers. R5990:2
Their beauty teaches us that the Lord has a deep appreciation of the
beautiful, and that God is abundantly able to produce the beautiful
without our aid. R3313:2
The bulb is continually sending up nourishment to its stalks; not idle,
but merely exercising its functions by the laws of its nature. R5220:4
Not a hot-house plant, dependent upon some horticulturist; but a flower
from the field, growing because the great Protector has provided for its
interests. R5220:4
The lily would always have a humble place; it would never be great like a
tree. So it is with us here in the flesh. R5875:4
God's care over a simple flower is a reminder of his greater care over his
own people. R5990:2
The heart that fails to consider the little things is hindered from a
proper appreciation of God and his plan. R5220:5
How they grow -- In a very reasonable way, without unnatural, unusual
stress. It does the best it can wherever it happens to be and develops
grace and beauty. R5990:6, 5875:1
The lily has a right to use everything within its power for its own
nourishment. So it is our right and duty to use the means within our power
for beautifying our characters, and for spiritual nourishment. R5220:5
The lily is not idle, else it would die, but it does not worry. R5220:4
We are not to be anxious about the things of the present life, nor are we
to be over-anxious regarding our spiritual growth. R5991:1
They toil not -- Does not mean that he would not have us labor with our
hands and our brains in order to care for our family, home, etc. R5991:1
Similarly we believe that in the heavens the angels are free from toil.
Divine power exercised in their interest makes toil unnecessary. CR65:1
But a state of lethargy, indolence, respecting the duties of life and
opportunities for presenting truth to others is a sure indication of
spiritual poverty. R2488:4
Matthew 6:29
Like one of these -- The finest clothing cannot approximate the delicate
structure of the flower, created by an infinite hand. R5875:1
Matthew 6:31
Take no thought -- Not worried; as free from anxious care as the lilies.
R5991:1; F679
Be content with such things as you have. (Heb. 13:5) R5220:1,2
Give all of the surplus of your time and energy, over and above that spent
in providing things needful in the accumulation of the heavenly riches.
R874:5
Matthew 6:32
After all these things -- Food, raiment, health, etc. R3718:2

The emoluments paid by mammon. CR9:3; NS396:6
Spiritual Israelites are exhorted by the Lord to appreciate the spiritual
clothing, the spiritual food, the heavenly riches, which moth and rust
cannot corrupt. R3665:1
Do the Gentiles seek -- The procuring of food and raiment is the most
important consideration with most people. R5990:5; SM370:1
It would be unsafe for any of the New Creation to request temporal
blessings. R3665:1
They could not pray for spiritual things for they had no appreciation of
such gifts. Be not like them. R5202:4, 3665:1
Father knoweth -- We should accept what he gives us as being for our
best interests. R4567:5
To be without worry does not mean to be without proper concern and due
diligence to find work and do it. R4567:5
It is for them to rejoice that their affairs are being more wisely and
more favorably ordered than if under their own control. SM371:T
How happy and free from anxious cares are the hours of childhood. Perfect
trust in parental wisdom and love casts out all fear. R732:1*
It is improper for the Lord's people to ask alms. R4101:5*
Ye have need of -- Our prayers should be more in the nature of
thank-offerings, worship and adoration, recounting the blessings and
favors we already enjoy rather than in asking those things which the
Gentiles seek. R1999:5
Many, however, who know nothing of real, actual want of life's
necessities, are much more exercised by the loss of luxuries when
adversity comes. R873:6, 832:5
All these things -- In their case, sickness could not come without the
Lord's special permission; hence it should be regarded as from him, and
not directly from Satan. R2007:2
Every event and affair of life will be overruled for the highest good.
R2468:5
Matthew 6:33
Seek ye -- It means to seek a place with the Redeemer in the true glory
and power of his coming Kingdom. R4730:6
Not merely seek them in prayer; we are to seek them by setting our
affections on those things and by lifting our affections from earthly
things. R2479:5
It will not be thrust upon anybody. SM369:1
First -- Primarily; as of the first or primary importance. SM370:1;
F679; R5990:6, 4567:5, 2765:5; NS680:6
First interest; earnestness and singleness of heart are necessary. R5917:6
God will look out for the earthly interests of those who pursue this
course. R4567:5
Do that which is in harmony with our Kingdom aspiration. R5171:1, 4913:5
These may lose in temporal advantage, but by faith they recognize it is to
their spiritual advantage. R4730:6
All who will be counted worthy to be kings and priests must demonstrate
now their willingness to sacrifice their own personal interests and rights
in favor of the Kingdom. SM374:1
If the interests of the Kingdom need money, we would feel guilty if we
should use the Lord's consecrated money in self-gratification. R5220:2
The Kingdom of God -- The invitation to joint-heirship in the Kingdom of
God. SM370:1; NS680:6
Giving to it all the time, attention, thought, energy, influence and means
not needed for the present life. R2765:5, 5918:5
The Jewish nation was first invited to become the Kingdom of God. R5917:2
To which spiritual Israelites are now invited. R4730:6
Messiah's Kingdom is sometimes styled the Kingdom of God. Civ
If seeking the Kingdom seems to hinder some of our earthly prospects, so
much the better. The Master said it must cost us our all. R5048:5
His righteousness -- The standard of perfect love toward God and toward
men. SM371:1
The heirs of the Kingdom are to be governed strictly by the laws of the
Kingdom. SM372:1 That is to say, the righteousness necessary to attain a
place in the Kingdom. R5219:6; NS680:6
God has provided a righteousness in Christ. R5918:4
We shall not only seek the Kingdom, but seek its righteousness: the
righteousness which the Kingdom will bring, the righteousness which God
will approve. SM371:1
If we seek and find his righteousness we shall also find his Kingdom. (2
Pet. 1:5-15) R2804:6*
Our first thought should be for the glory of God; our second, for our own
profit; our third for the benefit of others. Here we owe it to ourselves
to put ourselves first, for if we fit ourselves for service, we have the
larger opportunity of helping others. R5130:1,4
All these things -- Food, raiment, etc. SM370:1
Not wanting for temporal necessities, for light, for necessary cares and
disciplines, for consolations of divine grace, for friendship and
sympathy. R1745:2,4
Be added unto you -- He will not let you starve in his service. B119
All things necessary are promised. R5219:6, 5990:6, 5991:1
According to His wisdom. F679; SM371:T; NS680:6
In fact they shall be our servants, instead of we in bondage to them.
R2804:6*
Matthew 6:34
No thought -- Take no anxious burdensome care for the morrow. F572;

R4871:3
Be neither careless nor anxious. F573
Sufficient unto -- Sufficient also is the guidance of the Lord and we
are to wait and watch for it. Q634:1
The evil thereof -- The difficulty thereof. R5470:5
If our hopes be not realized so soon as we expected, we are not to worry;
we are blessed with the truth and there is work to be done. R5374:4
Matthew 7
Matthew 7:1
Judge not -- Harshly, uncharitably, unmercifully, ungenerously. R2329:3,

2589:2
Declaring against evil thoughts, evil suspicions, evil surmisings. R2444:5
Because we do not fully comprehend the divine law of love and cannot
discern the thoughts of our own heart. F403
We may at times judge the outward action as wrong, but we are not to
attempt to judge the heart, where there is a possibility of misjudgment.
R5430:3, 1712:5
It is forbidden us to judge the heart. R4568:5
Judging is a clear token that one has not developed the spirit of Christ,
the spirit of love, which is full of kindness and consideration. R2589:2,
1713:6; F403 Our Lord refers to the abuse of judgment and not to the
legitimate use of that noble faculty. R1712:2
The Lord discountenances criticisms and accusations and sentences of one
another as individuals. R2431:5
But when conduct is in manifest opposition and in defiance of God's law,
as that of "wolves," "swine" and "dogs," the condemnation should be
recognized as God's judgment, not ours. R1712:5
Some people must be held at arm's length, but at the same time we should
be careful to give them credit for good motives they claim to have. NS164:4
The first occurrence of the word in the New Testament and would clearly
bear the rendering, "Test not, that ye be not tested." R48:6*
Be not judged -- Harshly, unmercifully. R2329:3
Matthew 7:2
With what judgment -- How we deal with others fixes the gauge of how God
deals with us. R5414:5, 5884:5, 5324:4, 5135:5; F403
The Law of Love says: For shame that the weaknesses and shortcomings of
brethren should be exposed before the world. F405
See comments on Matt. 6:12
Ye judge -- How many find it easy to excuse their own weaknesses while
they are very captious and critical as respects the shortcomings of
others. R5324:4
Ye shall be judged -- If at heart we treasure up resentment against
others, the Heavenly Father will not forgive us. R5123:3 With what measure
-- The fallen or carnal mind is selfish; and proportionately as it is for
self it is against others--disposed to approve or excuse self and to
disapprove and condemn others. F404
The continual fault-finder, who sees great blemishes in others and none in
himself, is blind to his own defects, or hypocritical. R4567:6
Ye mete -- Measure others. R2253:4
Measured to you -- If our words are generous and kind, loving and
benevolent, we shall receive similarly kind treatment of the Lord; but if
harsh, critical, unkind, we may expect reproof. OV209:4, 210:T; R3453:5
Matthew 7:3
And why -- Busybodying in other men's affairs. F583

The mote -- The little difficulties and weaknesses with which all the
Lord's people are more or less troubled. R2589:3
Not the beam -- The great fault of lovelessness. R2589:3
Satan possesses this fault; he is called the "Accuser of the brethren."
(Rev. 12:10) R2589:4
Matthew 7:4
Let me -- Fancying that it is "his duty" to advise, to pick, to

investigate, to chide, to reprove. F584
Pull out the mote -- The continual fault-finder who sees great blemishes
in others and none in himself is blind to his own defects, or
hypocritical. R4567:6
Matthew 7:5
Thou hypocrite -- Wishing to give the inference that you are not
yourself inflicted with the same malady of sin. R2589:4
It is deceptive and hypocritical when we claim that fault-finding is
prompted by love for the erring and a hatred of sin. R2589:4
Matthew 7:6
Give not -- We are to tell the heavenly things, but not to the natural
man. R5065:6
Use the spirit of a sound mind to discriminate between those who are good
subjects for the truth and those who are not. R5376:4
This does not mean that we should never bring holy things to the attention
of those who are not the Lord's consecrated people. R2589:6
Unto the dogs -- Idlers, breeders of spiritual contagion, self-seekers,
biters and devourers, treacherously lying in wait to deceive. R1671:1
We would not expect that dogs would appreciate the difference between meat
from the butcher shop and the holy, consecrated meat eaten only by the
priesthood. R2589:6
The selfish, the sensual, who mind earthly things and who have never been
begotten of the spirit of God. R2589:6
The only preaching proper for such is "Repent and be converted that your
sins may be blotted out" and "Flee from the wrath to come." R1671:2
The "brethren" have been neglectful in the endeavor to feed the "dog"
class. R2590:1
Cast your pearls -- The deep and precious things that belong to the New
Creation and which none others can understand and appreciate. R3265:2,
5699:1, 5214:6, 5065:6, 4568:1; OV5:2; SM242:T
We are not authorized to parade our ambassadorship before the world.
NS466:1
Before swine -- The groveling, who think only of money and the things of
this life. R2589:6
The brutish and swinish. R2589:2
Those who have not the hearing ear and the seeing eye. R5376:3, 327:5*
Those who would not be able to understand nor appreciate our position.
R5825:5, 4568:1
They would resent our precious truths and do us injury. R4568:1, 4984:3;
SM7:T
Those who mind earthly things, the selfish, the sensual. R2589:5,6
Trample them -- Recognizing no value in pearls, nor appreciating
anything that would not give earthly satisfaction. SM7:T
And rend you -- "Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee." (Prov. 9:8)
R2589:2
Injure you. SM7:T
Matthew 7:7
Ask -- Some of the chiefest of his favors he withholds from us until we

make requests, because he thus prepares us more for the blessings he is
willing to bestow. R4568:1
All the consecrated are free to make request for the things promised in
the Word of God. R4568:1
If you wish to know how to overcome the spirit of fault-finding and harsh
criticism of the Lord's brethren. R2590:1
Seek -- Those who approach the Bible with earnest desire to find God's
message, will be guided of the Lord. Q643:1; R4983:6, 4971:1
And ye shall find -- The knowledge of the holy Spirit shall be revealed.
E167
We find what we seek! Those who desire to find God's message will be
guided by the Lord. Those who approach the Bible from the standpoint of
unbelief are equally sure to find what they seek--flaws, contradictions,
etc. Q643:2
Knock -- Upon the Lord's storehouse of grace and blessing by continued
efforts, as well as prayer. R2590:2, 1150:4
Opened unto you -- The door of privilege, of opportunity. R4983:6
The door of knowledge. E167
Matthew 7:8
Every one that asketh -- Anyone, therefore, who seeks God will find him;
for the Scriptures promise, "Draw nigh to God and he will draw nigh to
you." (Jas. 4:8) R5201:3
He that seeketh -- In the "Law and Testimony." (Isa. 8:20) E167
Seeks the proper blessings: forgiveness of past sins, divine love and
care, both temporal and eternal. OV181:2
Findeth -- Those who pray for opportunities to serve the Lord and watch
for the fulfillment of their prayers will surely have them. R4913:4
The believer, assuming that there is a superhuman wisdom in the divine
word, investigates from that standpoint. NS63:2
It shall be opened -- The door of knowledge shall be opened. E167;
R5201:6
God will reveal his true character to them. OV2:2
Matthew 7:9
A stone -- Traditions as indigestible as a stone. HG692:3
Matthew 7:11
Give good things -- The holy Spirit, the true antidote for a fault-
finding disposition. R2590:2, 4568:4
The Lord will also give whatever temporal blessings are to the best
interests of the new creature. R5835:1
If he gives us a gift at all, we may be sure it will be a blessing. NS229:5
That ask him -- God is particularly willing to give us the holy Spirit,
and is especially pleased that we ask for it. R5310:6, 5835:2
We are not to ask for all manner of earthly things. R5835:1
Matthew 7:12
Therefore -- Connecting this with the preceding; signifying that this

will be a test by which we may discern when and to what extent we are
misjudging the motives of others. R2590:3
By way of concluding this subject of finding fault, picking flaws,
condemning and criticizing. R2590:3
Whatsoever ye would -- Our Lord's words were addressed to his disciples.
OV231:1; SM431:2
This is not the rule of love, but of justice. R4827:3
To do justice to your neighbor as you wish that neighbor to do justice to
you is the essence of the Law of God given to the Jews for their treatment
of others. SM352:2
Under this golden measurement, how few bitter, angry or slanderous words
would be used, for how few would like to have others use such to or of
them. R2688:6
As we would not wish to have others think ungenerously or meanly of us, so
we in turn would find our thoughts of others becoming more generous and
less suspicious. R2688:6
To reason, If we were in the slums we would wish that some of God's
children would help us and hence we should do so to others, is a mistaken
application of this rule. R2689:6
It does not say that we should do to our neighbor as he might wish us to
do to him, for he might wish a very unreasonable thing. R2688:4
If Jesus had loved us just according to the Golden Rule, he would not have
died for us; but he did more, and he requires that his followers should do
more for each other. Q286:6
That men -- Particularly the Lord's brethren and those dependent upon
you. R2689:1, 2690:5
It will be applicable to all the heathen world and the substratum of
society in the Millennial age, but now it is applicable chiefly to the
household of faith. R2690:5
Should do -- Charging only a reasonable profit on goods sold, expecting
to pay a reasonable profit to him who sells. R2688:5; OV231:3
To you -- Putting off anger, malice, hatred, strife, envy, slanders,
etc. R2688:6
Do ye -- This is a positive rule, to do good; and not a negative rule,
to abstain from doing evil. R2688:2, 4567:3
This rule does not express all of the Christian's duty, but marks the very
lowest standard which must measure our dealings with others, justice.
OV231:2
To the full extent of their ability, the new creatures must render
justice. SM431:2, 352:2; R4567:3
We must also be just in our words and thoughts. SM432:1
This law the Apostle calls the "law of liberty," the perfect law. R2688:2
With applications to husbands, wives, children, parents, brothers and
sisters. OV232:1
Applications to the Church. OV232:3
The Christian businessman's ideal is the Golden Rule. OV369:2
The Golden Rule is despised and rejected as impracticable. R5723:5
Nothing short of full devotion to the Lord will enable one to live
consistently along the lines of the Golden Rule. R4568:4
He who practices the Golden Rule during the six days of his contact with
business will surely be faithful on the seventh; but faithfulness to the
Golden Rule on the one day only will never win Divine approval. OV232:2
This Golden Rule is necessary in formation of character, not only to
develop equity and justice, but also the spirit of love, of unselfishly
doing good to others. R2689:3
Only as we exercise benevolence toward others need we expect God's
benevolence in respect to our weaknesses and shortcomings. R4567:3,6
The Christian has an additional requirement--the Lord's "New Commandment."
We must "love one another" as our Redeemer loved us, to the degree of
self-sacrifice, even unto death. R4568:4
To tell uncomplimentary truth is to violate the Law of Love, the Golden
Rule. F406
Even so to them -- By acting kindly, speaking gently, being patient
toward weaknesses, not expecting too much. F376
Doing for them now the kind of work which God desires to have done;
leaving for the future the things which God has planned to have done in
the future (the salvation of the world). R2690:2
This is the Golden Rule and, by comparison, the rule of Confucius, "Do not
to others what you would not wish them to do to you" might be considered
the brazen rule. R2688:1, 4567:3
This is the law -- Not a Gospel standard, not a love standard, but
justice. OV231:2
The Law of God is briefly summed up in this Golden Rule. R4568:4
"The righteousness of the law." (Rom. 8:4) R2689:3
Matthew 7:13
Wide is the gate -- First entered by Father Adam. A205

Broad is the way -- The downward path, in which all of Adam's posterity
were born. A205
Opened up in Eden at the time of the loss of the homestead. R4245:6*
Becoming broad of necessity in order to include every member of Adam's
family. R4245:6*
On which the human race is hurrying to the tomb. R5245:2; A205
Of self-gratification, pride, lust, sin, selfishness. R4838:1, 4568:2
The easy, selfish, worldly way. R2590:5
The present evil world. Q829:2
That leadeth -- As years and centuries roll on, becoming more and more
smoothly worn, daily more glazed and slimed and slippery with sin. A205
To destruction -- The way that seemeth right to the world will end in
death. (Prov. 14:12) CR497:2
Death, not eternal torture. R4568:2; A205
Many there be -- Our race, now thronging the broad road to death, are to
be restored because their guilt and sin are atoned for and will be
remitted. R281:4
Mankind daily loses the power of resistance so that now the average length
of human life is about 35 years, 900 years less than the first man. A206
Even the Jews were in that Broad Way. CR497:2
Which go in there at -- All mankind are born under more or less adverse
conditions and unfavorable environments; and the majority follow on in the
way in which they are born. CR496:4
The world's choice is between hastening down the broad road, giving loose
rein to their passion, or seeking to restrain these and go down more
slowly. NS81:4
Matthew 7:14
Strait is the gate -- Applicable only in the Gospel age. R860:2

Difficult is the gate. A207; R5045:3, 5320:2
Full consecration, even unto death; but within are ministering spirits,
all conspiring for our ultimate membership in the New Creation. F152;
R4568:3; OV177:4
The love and loyalty of the disciples is tested by their call to walk
contrary to the world. R4568:3
The Lord permits the Christian to have adverse experiences so that his
character may be developed. Q821:3
Our too-low standards have admitted to membership in all denominations
millions who are far below the Master's standards. NS778:5
Narrow is the way -- The way of death by sacrifice with Christ. A212;
R5871:5, 5245:2, 2773:2
He opened for us "a new and living way through the veil, that is to say,
his flesh." (Heb. 10:20) R279:5
So that only those willing to suffer with Christ may be his joint-heirs.
F125; R4964:6, 5005:4
The vows of consecration make the way to glory narrow. NS654:5
So narrow that it admits only the Lord's plan and those willing to conform
to it. R5045:3
It is only as "new creatures" that the saints of this age are on the way
to life; and only as human beings are we consecrated to destruction, as
sacrifices. A213
Were it not that strength is furnished for each successive step of the
journey, we could never reach the goal. A214
Those who walk in the narrow way are scripturally called "new creatures in
Christ Jesus." (2 Cor. 5:17) NS19:3
We should not be surprised that the way that leads to life is narrow when
we realize the grandeur of the life to which it leads. R281:4
Because the successful enduring of these tests is indispensable to those
whom he would thus honor. F125
Separate from the world; steep, rugged and beset with snares of the
Adversary. CR414:1; OV130:T
Contrary to the general tendencies of the world--upward. R4568:3
Because this Gospel age is a part of "the present evil world" during which
Satan is the prince or ruler. NS17:6
Opened up, not to convert the world, but to choose a peculiar people to be
associated with the Lord in his spiritual Kingdom. R4246:1*
Its difficulties will act as a separating principle to separate and refine
a "peculiar people." A214; R281:5; NS345:5
It means more than negative opposition to the world; it means to make a
positive stand for the Lord, for the truth of His Word, for righteousness
in general. NS19:1
The law given to Israel was a narrow way and they thought it to be a way
of life, but they found it to be a way of death. (Rom. 7:10) NS18:3
It did not exist in the Jewish age and previous ages. NS18:1
We are not to expect that this narrow way will continue in the future
indefinitely--during the Millennial age. NS17:6
The divine arrangement for our first parents in Eden was not a narrow way
of sacrifice, but quite to the contrary. NS20:2
The little flock will run it with voluntary devotion, but the great
company will have experiences which will force them, not to take one
special way, but to decide for themselves which course they will pursue.
R5245:2; Q331:3,6
Leadeth unto life -- Life inherent, life in the superlative degree,
immortality. A210; R5045:3; SM10:1
Glory, honor and immortality--association with the Redeemer in the great
work of the Millennial Kingdom. R4568:3
This life is immortality. They were living, justified, before, but the
strait gate and narrow way lead to another, a different life. R779:3*,
659:5*
The spirit in us is the germ of immortality. Thus we even now are
partakers of the divine nature, but the fullness is to be reached when we
enter into life. R279:4
There is no other way of life open at the present time. NS19:2
Few there be -- In comparison with the population as a whole. NS808:3
Because the Lord seeks only a very choice class at the present time.
NS19:2, 749:2
Not many great, not many rich or learned, but chiefly the poor of this
world, rich in faith. OV123:3
"A little flock." (Luke 12:32) R2122:5; HG186:3
"Many are called and few are chosen." (Matt. 22:14) Paul estimates that
many run, though few so run as to obtain the prize of the high calling. (1
Cor. 9:24) R281:1
Our Lord himself was the first to walk in it as the captain or leader of
all who would walk in his steps. NS83:4
These few are the bride class who, with Christ, are to bless all the
families of the earth. R5691:1
That find it -- The narrow way is a privilege. NS344:4
Matthew 7:15
Of false prophets -- Public expounders. A55

Some will speak perverse things and draw away disciples unto themselves.
R5388:6
A class who pervert the truth, stirring up arguments that confuse the
flock, manifesting a wolfish disposition. R5388:6
It is not evil-surmising to be on the lookout for false teachers, nor evil
speaking to call the attention of the sheep to such. R3746:6
In sheep's clothing -- Those who studiously cover up a wolf-like
character with the outward professions of godliness, in order to deceive
and lead astray the unwary. R1712:2
Professing to be of the Lord's flock; but really not such, because they do
not trust in the great sacrifice offered once for all for their sins.
R3142:3
While sheep can never become wolves, some, who at one time were sheep,
after a while manifest a wolfish disposition and take pleasure in doing
all they can to injure the flock. R5388:6
Implies the thought of deception, walking like sheep, wearing sheep's
clothing, but never being real sheep. R5388:6
However smooth, polished, educated, gentle they may be on the surface, we
must get to know them better than by surface indications before we may
dare trust them as leaders of the flock. R3747:1
Ravening wolves -- A class who pervert the truth, injure the flock, stir
up arguments that confuse the flock, destroy the new creature, dragging
them down to death. R5388:6
Greedy, selfish: "Through covetousness shall they with feigned words make
merchandise of you." (2 Pet. 2:3) R3747:1
Ready to destroy your faith in the ransom and thus destroy you as sheep.
R3142:3
Hungry with ambition for fame and prominence and honor of men, and willing
to barter the interests of the flock for their personal aggrandizement.
R3748:2
The wolf is not to be tolerated. He has no rightful place in the
assemblies of the true sheep until his character is changed by repentance
and submission to the will of God. R1712:2
We should neither reprove as wolves, or disown as brethren, those whose
hearts, characters, give evidence that they belong to the Lord, even
though they follow not with us in respect to his service. R3747:1
Matthew 7:16
By their fruits -- Sharp, thorny, injurious, poisonous--or, helpful,

strengthening, uplifting. R4568:5
Of character, conduct or teaching. R1712:2
Signs that their characters are being transformed in a wrong direction.
R5957:1
As James claims, if the right kind of faith be developed in the heart it
will surely bear fruit and make an outward manifestation, according to
circumstances. R4377:3, 3318:1
The same must be true of the Almighty--by His fruits, His workmanship,
fully completed, He may be known to be either good or bad, just or unjust,
loving or vicious. SM449:4
Of thorns -- Some, like thorns, reach out to impede, irritate, annoy and
injure those with whom they come in contact. R3747:2
Little of this injury is done physically; nevertheless, the thorny and
briery people find abundant opportunity for injuring others with their
lips and tongues. R3318:2
The thorn and brier classes, however closely affiliated with religious
things, are not vine branches. R5148:1
There is a thorn-bush in Palestine which grows a fruit somewhat resembling
grapes, and a kind of thistle with heads shaped like figs. R3747:2
Of thistles -- Some, like thistles, are always scattering seeds that
cause trouble: false doctrines, evil-surmisings, errors. R3747:2
The thorns and thistles are bad fruits, belonging to the evil nature, and
not fruits of the spirit of the Lord. R5224:3
Matthew 7:17
Every good tree -- Contrasting a healthy fruit tree with a diseased or

evil one; contrasting a healthy Christian with a perverted and misguided
one. R3747:3 A corrupt tree -- The Lord supplies the good soil of truth,
the refreshing showers of grace and the nourishment of precious promises;
but it is for each of his people to use these and thereby grow. R3747:4
Illustrating that those who are his disciples, sound and proper enough to
begin with, might lose their spiritual strength and forcefulness, their
carefulness. R3747:3
A Christian who has failed to use the chastisements, trials, and
difficulties to correct the weaknesses, shortcomings and wrong development
of his nature; a Christian who has set his affections on houses, lands or
worldly aims, objects or individuals. R3747:4
A Christian who has failed to grow in grace, knowledge and love has not
appropriated the nourishment provided, has not submitted to pruning. His
heart has become decayed. R3747:3
So surely as a corrupt tree brings forth bad fruit, so false doctrines
will develop bad characters in those who receive them. SM382:2
Evil fruit -- Knotty, wormy, unsatisfactory. R3747:3
Matthew 7:19
Is hewn down -- In Palestine, to this day, fruit trees are taxed, and
trees which do not bear are promptly cut down. R3747:5
"Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away." (John 15:2)
R3747:5
Cast into the fire -- Symbolizing the time of trouble in the end of the
Jewish age, and that to come at the end of the Gospel age and beginning of
the Millennial age. R3747:5,6
Matthew 7:20
By their fruits -- Lives. HG693:1

What they do with their spare time and money. R2259:3 Outward
manifestations. R5000:2
We are to judge the outward conduct, but we cannot go beyond and say what
is of the heart. R5000:3
Only in regard to that of which we have positive knowledge should we
render a decision in our own minds. R5519:6, 5000:2
Sharp, thorny, injurious, poisonous--or, helpful, strengthening,
uplifting. R4568:5, 5224:3, 4592:2
A wicked spirit, a malicious tongue, and pleasure in doing unrighteousness
betoken a change of heart, that they have not the holy Spirit governing
them as they once had. Q648:T
The holy Spirit or the spirit of the Adversary. R4592:2; Q648:T
The fruits of the people of God are holiness, meekness, gentleness,
long-suffering, brotherly-kindness, self-sacrifice for others and for God
and His truth. R5504:5; OV401:4; NS205:6, 403:3
Aside from any fruits that would be injurious, we are to accept the
profession of all who claim to be consecrated. R4653:6
Ye shall know them -- We know the Almighty by His fruits--His good, just
and loving workmanship finally completed. SM449:4
Be able to discern which are brethren and which are "dogs" or "swine."
R2589:5
Know that those bearing the fruits of the spirit are no longer children of
wrath, but have passed from death unto life. NS403:3
Specially applicable to those who would be leaders of His flock. R3747:5
Know that those having the spirit of anger, etc., are yet in the "gall of
bitterness," however outwardly respectable they may be. NS403:4
Matthew 7:21
Not every one -- Who are professing to be his disciples. R3317:6

Not all who have their names upon earthly church rolls, but only those
whose "names are written in heaven" and whose names will not be blotted
out because of unfaithfulness. (Heb. 12:23; Rev. 3:5) HG315:6
Only those who, after repentance, renunciation of sin, and acceptance of
Christ as their Redeemer, make a full consecration of themselves to the
Lord, to know and to do His will. NS391:2
Shall enter into -- Can be accepted as a joint-heir with Christ.
R4470:1, 5938:3, 2235:3
Kingdom of heaven -- The actual Kingdom, not the Church in her present
condition. R3317:6
Doeth the will -- God's will is to select such as believe His promises
for the future so fully that they will give up the present to obtain it.
R581:2
The heart, the will, must be right, sincere, true, pure, loyal to God and
the principles of his government. R4568:5
By our deeds, and not merely by our professions. R5938:3
Matthew 7:22
Many will say -- In contrast with the "few there be that find it."
(Verse 14) R814:5*
Not only a few, but "many," who in their outward course of life have in
some measure acknowledged the Lord publicly. R3318:2
Many sadly misinformed partial-believers in Christ. D632
Many who have done philanthropic and reform work. R5404:6
The Great Company. R5383:5
Professed church of Christ--"false brethren." SM222:1
Ostensibly they serve the Lord, in reality they serve mammon. SM760:1
In that day -- In the close of the Gospel age. R3747:6, 5404:6, 4568:5
Lord, Lord -- They had a form of godliness. R5407:4
Have we not -- As Laodicea, "I am rich, increased in goods, and have
need of nothing." (Rev. 3:17) R4314:4
But these boastings avail little to the interests of Babylon because the
lack of the spirit of God's law of love is too painfully manifest to be
concealed. D170
The harvest truth is only for the holy and meek. R1348:5
Prophesied -- Preached. D632
He will not guarantee that anybody who has power to work miracles and
preach publicly will be granted a place in the Kingdom. R4668:2
In thy name -- The Revised Version gives "by thy name," intimating that
the name of Christ is used rather as a charm, to conjure by. R3748:1
Much of this conjuring in the name of Jesus has been merely a cloak.
R3748:1
Claiming divine authorship for their own erroneous theories. R3647:6
Many take the Lord's name in vain, associating it with their enterprises,
which are often in direct conflict with the Master's Word and Spirit.
R3748:1
Cast out devils -- Opposing sin and multitudinous forms of evil. R3747:6
Wonderful works -- Good works: mission work, slum work. Q112:5
Miracles are not necessary today amongst the Lord's people, and hence they
have passed away. R3301:5
Not that the Lord does not approve of hospitals, asylums and charities,
but they are not the fruits of the spirit. NS376:6
The Lord's followers are not to be known by their great works--"by their
fruits ye shall know them." (Verse 20) Q783:2
Many there are who are consecrated to a system or to a work who are not
fully consecrated to God. R1802:3*
Benevolent institutions, colleges, seminaries, etc. R3747:6
Not acceptable to God because they have not submitted themselves to His
plans and methods. R3647:6
The Lord makes use of various characters as agents in these healings, even
as Judas was one of the twelve who worked miracles. R749:4
So satisfied with their present world-converting machinery that they would
rather dislike to have the second advent occur now and spoil their plans.
R1439:3
Ecclesiasticism is constantly boasting of her great achievements, as here
prophesied. D170
Including miraculous physical healings. F639
Some are urged to make money as honestly as possible and contribute
liberally to the church, and told they will be granted a free pass to
eternal happiness in the future. SM760:T
Some may be found building up Babylon in some of its denominations, but
neglecting the divine Word and their own character building. NS319:6
There is so much reckoning, figuring and apologizing for the meager
missionary results now, because we are living in the "harvest" or
reckoning time. R1078:3
The various persons and systems performing the "many wonderful works" of
today, almost without exception, directly or indirectly antagonize the
truth. R3158:4
We are not to object to the works if they are good works. R4668:2, 3120:3;
Q112:5
Implying that Satan will have not only false teachers, but false
miracle-workers, deceiving themselves and others respecting the source of
their power and teachings. R2837:3
Matthew 7:23
I never knew you -- "Never approved you." (Diaglott) R2837:3

Never recognized or authorized your sects. R3748:2
I do not recognize you. R5383:5, 5404:6, 5389:6
You are not fit for the Kingdom class. Q112:5; R5407:4, 4668:2, 4568:6;
SM222:2
You did not come in by the door of the sheep-fold (John 10:1). R5404:6
Your work is out of harmony with the principles of my teaching. Such will
pass through tribulation and lose the great prize. R4568:6
Only those will be recognized who have done the will of the Lord and who
have no theories or works of their own whereof to boast. R3252:4
Because of not having developed characters in harmony with the Father's
law--the Golden Rule. R4568:6, 3318:2
Depart from me -- Left to have a part in the great time of trouble, they
will doubtless become God's people instead of sectarians, and will be
"willing in the day of his power." (Psa. 110:3) D632
Obliged to pass through tribulation with the world, losing their share of
the great prize of this Gospel age. R4568:6
It is the duty of every true disciple to rebuke them, for the outward
opponents do far less harm than those who wear the Master's name while
denying his doctrine. R1418:6
Not into eternal torment. He does not say, "Depart, ye cursed." R5383:5
That work iniquity -- Neglecting the privileges of the high calling when
they knew of it. R5407:4
Workers of unrighteousness, in my name. R5389:6, 3748:3
Through misrepresentation of God's character and plan. R3748:3
The 1000 years of Christ's reign will accomplish the real reform work.
R5404:6
Matthew 7:24
These sayings -- Jesus' message and teachings. R5407:3

The words or message of the Sermon on the Mount, showing what things are
blessed of God in contradistinction to the things which would not have his
approval. R3748:4
Doeth them -- Render obedience thereto. R5407:3
Not merely to be doctrinally informed, but he is looking for such
character development as will bring us into full harmony with his
teachings. R3748:5
I will liken him -- The parable refers not to the Church and the world,
but to two parties in the Church. R3748:3, 3318:4
A wise man -- The true people of God who will be able to stand the test
of this great day, now upon us. R5443:4
Built his house -- Jesus showed that it was important to be founded upon
a rock; and Paul shows that is important also to build with good material.
(1 Cor. 3:12) R358:5*
A rock -- Christ. R4568:6, 5443:4
"Other foundation can no man lay than that which is laid, Jesus Christ."
(1 Cor. 3:11) R5407:6
Matthew 7:25
The winds blew -- The storms of life are sure to come. R5407:3, 4568:6
Founded upon a rock -- The foundation, God's promises, brings calmness,
confidence and security. R5407:3
The twelve apostles, the foundations of the New Jerusalem, were not laid
in the sand, but upon the sure and steadfast rock, Christ Jesus. R1522:1
No man can build a proper life unless he have some foundation, some
doctrine, some faith. A man with no faith, no hope, is sure to be
correspondingly lacking in character. R3318:4
Matthew 7:26
His house -- Faith structure. R5407:6

Upon the sand -- Foundations of human tradition, man-made theories,
ignorance, doctrines of demons. (1 Tim. 4:1) R4568:6, 5407:5
The quicksand foundation upon which nominal Christianity is built. R5443:4
Of selfishness. R1190:5*
Those so building will suffer the loss of everything, and at the beginning
of the Millennium will be no better off than the world in general. R4569:4
Perhaps some built upon the law, thinking they could commend themselves to
God by their own endeavors, without the imputation of the merit of Christ.
R5407:5
Matthew 7:27
Rain descended -- A mighty downpour of truth. R3748:5, 5443:4

The floods came -- "The hail shall sweep away the refuge of lies, and
the waters shall overflow the hiding place." (Isa. 28:17) R3748:5
The winds blew -- The strong winds of war. R3414:3, 5443:4
And beat -- The shaking will be the means of God for the liberation of
some now chained by superstition. R1308:4
Upon that house -- Nominal Christendom. R3748:5
It fell -- The "great company" will have a faith structure largely
composed of error, which will be consumed. R3748:6
Truth will wash out the quicksand foundation of nominal Christianity.
Utter wreck will follow. R5443:4, 5407:6
Great was the fall -- Suffering the loss of all their hopes. R5407:6
At the beginning of the Millennium; they will be no better off than the
world in general. R4569:4
Matthew 7:28
Were astonished -- Even though they but imperfectly understood because

the holy Spirit was not yet given. R5408:2
Matthew 7:29
Having authority -- Knowing the truth by implicit faith in God and

personal experience with its power upon his own heart. R1917:2
As one who understood his subject thoroughly. R3803:2
As one knowing what he was talking about. OV159:1
With a positiveness. R5408:2, 3318:5
Not as the scribes -- Who taught various speculations and wonderings.
R5408:2
Doubtfully. R3803:2
Wherever there is confusion and mysticism, we may be sure there is error
and ignorance. R5408:2
Matthew 8
Matthew 8:2
A leper -- Leprosy symbolically represents sin. R4576:3

If thou wilt -- He was inspired with faith as far as his knowledge went,
and Jesus graciously supplied the missing link by saying, I will. R436:6*
Matthew 8:3
Put forth his hand -- It is a mistake to suppose that healing

constituted Jesus' mission as a whole or one of its most important
features. R4576:2
Touched him -- His healings were performed to: (1) draw attention to his
message; (2) illustrate his great future work; or (3) test his own
Be thou clean -- No suggestion here of the error of the leper's moral
mind as claimed by Christian Science. All is real, both the leprosy and
the miraculous cure. R4472:2*
Was cleansed -- Represents purification from sin. R4576:3
Matthew 8:4
Tell no man -- The testimony of his Messiahship was to be hidden from

the common people until the rulers of the Jewish Church had the
opportunity to decide for or against Christ. C168
Telling it forth would tend to make him too popular. R4576:3
To the priest -- This was the demand of the Law. R4576:3
Representative of the Jewish system. C168
Testimony unto them -- To those who would ultimately pass sentence upon
him. R4576:5
Matthew 8:5
A centurion -- Captain of a garrison of Roman soldiers; a Gentile.

R5101:4
Probably Cornelius. R1922:6, 2620:6
Matthew 8:6
My servant -- An interest in his employee which we, as Christians, do

well to imitate. R2620:6
Matthew 8:8
I am not worthy -- Being a Gentile, it would be an impropriety for a Jew

to enter his house. R3755:5
A lesson of humility of mind in approaching the Lord on any subject; that
we have nothing of right or merit to demand, only grace and mercy. R3755:5
Speak the word only -- He had this faith because his servants obeyed
their authority, and he recognized that Jesus had still higher authority
and could so command his messengers. R5101:4
Matthew 8:10
He marveled -- The only other instance where Jesus marveled was at the
unbelief of the people of Nazareth. (Mark 6:6) R3755:6
No, not in Israel -- Nowhere among the whole twelve tribes. C293
Matthew 8:11
That many -- Faithful ones from among the Gentiles, called to be the
bride and joint-heir of the true and only heir of all things, Christ
Jesus. R1095:2
The world of mankind in the Millennium. R3457:1
Shall come -- By a narrow, thorny path of trial. R1095:5
East and the west -- Gentiles. R4576:6
Shall sit down -- Or, be at rest and peace with God, with Abraham, Isaac
and Jacob and all the faithful of the earthly class. R3457:1
With Abraham -- The visible representatives of the Kingdom. D619;
Q421:3; R4796:1
The Kingdom itself will be spiritual, invisible to men, but its earthly
agents will be visible and they will be Jewish. R4796:1
Who will have an honored place for the blessing of regathered Israel, and
through them, all the families of the earth. R4577:1
Who died before the ransom was paid and were not therefore called to a
place in the spiritual Kingdom. D625
But not the saints. A290
And Isaac and Jacob -- And all the ancient worthies. R3457:1, 1634:6;
D619
Kingdom of heaven -- The earthly phase of the Kingdom. A290
Matthew 8:12
Children of the kingdom -- Israelites, children of Abraham, Isaac and

Jacob, to whom the Kingdom was first offered. R5101:5
The Lord is here not speaking about the world at all; he is speaking about
the Church. Q199:4
The Lord was discussing the earthly Kingdom with the earthly children.
Q421:4
Some who, in the end of the age, not being faithful, will be rejected from
the light. Q199:4
Cast out -- Out of divine favor. R4576:6
Divine grace or favor was to continue with the Jew until three and a half
years after the cross. R5100:6
They should not think that God would take them for his elect regardless of
their character, faith, obedience, etc. R5101:5 All the unworthy of the
Jewish age shall be excluded from the visible, earthly phase of the
Kingdom. R1580:1
Outer darkness -- God's disfavor, which has been upon Jews, especially
since the destruction of Jerusalem. R4576:6, 4577:1, 3105:6; Q421:3
As outcasts from God's favor and from the special light of prophecy which
for 1800 years had enlightened them. R1095:2
That which is common to the world in general. R4445:2, 4577:1
If any of us do not walk carefully, we will not continue to be children of
light. Q199:4
Not like purgatory or hell-fire, because the normal view of these is very
light, bright and hot. Q199:4
There shall be -- Those that rejected the Lord found a great time of
trouble at the end of the Jewish age. Q421:3; R3105:6
Weeping -- The Jewish nation has suffered for 18 centuries and will
continue to suffer until God will forgive them and save them. R4577:1,
1095:5
Grief is indeed implied, but not one word about an eternity of grief and
pain. HG303:2
Gnashing of teeth -- Signifying chagrin, disappointment, savage
animosity; as in the case of Stephen, "They gnashed on him with their
teeth." (Acts 7:54) R4329:1; Q732:2
Darkness respecting transpiring events and, ultimately, the severity of
the trouble, figuratively called "weeping and gnashing of teeth." R3105:6
A metaphor describing trouble, distress, perplexity and persecution.
R1095:5
Matthew 8:13
As thou hast believed -- Those who cannot exercise faith cannot have a
share in the blessings offered under the Gospel call, but must wait for
the demonstration of the Millennial Kingdom. R4576:6
Some were healed in answer to their own faith (Mark 5:34); and some, as
here, in answer to the faith of another. R759:3
Was healed -- No miracle of healing was ever wrought by the Savior upon
any of his disciples. R4577:4
Matthew 8:15
The fever left her -- Some, as here, were healed instantly; some
gradually. (Mark 8:24,25) R759:3
Ministered unto them -- Demonstrating that her cure was miraculous,
since the operation of the mind could not have restored at once the
strength lost by the fever. R3311:1
Matthew 8:16
And healed -- The miracles of healing which our Lord performed were
incidental to his preaching. R4137:2
The healings had three ends in view: (1) to draw attention to his message;
(2) to illustrate his great future work; and (3) to test his consecration
vows. R4576:3
All that were sick -- "Virtue (vitality) went out of him and healed them
all." (Luke 6:19) R5096:4, 4576:3; A230; E124; F645
Matthew 8:17
Himself -- The gift which costs nothing cannot be so highly esteemed as

that which costs much. R4138:2
Took our infirmities -- At his own expense, his own sacrifice. R4576:3,
4138:1, 574:4; E106,124
"Touched with the feeling of our infirmities." (Heb. 4:15) E106; F632
Perfection is the opposite of infirmity. E122
Greek, asthenioas; used in the singular when the sickness of Lazarus is
spoken of (John 11:4); proof from the Scriptures that Jesus was sick and
so able to sympathize with us in our sicknesses. R2767:4*
Greek, astheneo, meaning without strength. R4099:6,2*
Our Lord, who had none of the imperfections of the fallen race, needed to
take from men their sicknesses in order that he might be touched with a
feeling of our infirmities. R2029:6
Not because pain, sickness and death had hold of him, but that they had
hold of our race, and he, full of love and sympathy, was bearing the
burdens of others. R574:5
The weaknesses going to him as "there went virtue out of him and healed"
the multitude. (Luke 6:19) F632
Experiencing, instead of vitality, a sense of the weakness and suffering
of those whom he relieved. F645
Since he himself was not the sinner, all the penalties of sin which could
rest upon him must be result of his taking the sinner's place and bearing
for us the stroke of justice. E127
Thus our Lord fulfilled his consecration and began to lay down his life
for others. R3727:5
He who spake "as never man spake" also sympathized as none of the fallen
race could sympathize with the fallen conditions, troubles and afflictions
of humanity. E126
"That he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining
to God," "in all points tempted like as we are." (Heb. 2:17,18; 4:15,16)
E128
It is expedient also that all who would be acceptable to God as members of
the Bride should be similarly touched with a feeling of the world's
infirmities and have sufficient sympathy to voluntarily bear some of the
sorrows and griefs of those about them. R4138:4; F645
Bare our sicknesses -- Not the sicknesses of the Church, but those
healed at the first advent, to illustrate greater works and grander
healings in which we may participate, now and in the Kingdom. F632; R4138:3
A comparison of Isa. 53 with Heb. 4:15 and Mark 5:30 and Luke 6:19 shows
us clearly that this prophecy was completely fulfilled at the first
advent. R2028:6
It was necessary for Christ to do this that he might be touched with a
feeling of our infirmities. F645
Being free from sin, he was free also from pain. Since he could not suffer
pain and sickness because of sin, he was placed for a time among sinners,
where their weaknesses and pains bore down upon him. R2000:1, 809:2
We do not know that our Lord was sick with any of the ordinary maladies.
It would appear that his healing merely exhausted his vitality, and thus
left upon him the weight of our sicknesses. R4138:3
It is the most refined and perfect organisms which can suffer most. R454:3
The healing of the new creature and the healing of the flesh are different
things. The new creature's soul-sickness is cured by the Good Physician,
even though his flesh may suffer pain and go into death. R4979:6
For God's consecrated people to ask for physical healing would be to
attempt to take back what they have consecrated to the Lord "even unto
death." R4980:1
Matthew 8:19
I will follow thee -- Evidently with the thought that one so gifted must
be wealthy. R5370:6
Matthew 8:20
Hath not where -- No home of his own. Only the very sincere would be
attracted to follow a leader in such a condition. R5370:6
It seems that persecution from his earthly kindred was not lacking and
that he was unwelcome in the home of his childhood. R1069:3
Matthew 8:21
Bury my father -- Leave your service and serve my father until he dies.
R1987:1; Q217:1
Matthew 8:22
Follow me -- Jesus did not mean that the young man should not attend his
father's funeral, but that if he left the Lord's service too long he might
never return. R1987:1
Let the dead -- The legally dead. Q760:4
Here unbelievers are referred to as still dead because of having no union
with the life-giver. F697
He was referring to the mass of mankind, all dead under condemnation, and
the one who believed in him was the only one that was even reckonedly
alive. HG195:3; Q717:4
We are all walking in the valley of the shadow of death and are now far
down below the mountain tops of life and perfection. R360:3
From God's standpoint all who are under the sentence of death are
considered as though already dead. A150,289; Q717:4, 760:4; CR131:2;
R5371:1, 3378:4, 2153:5, 1231:3, 1077:1; NS253:5
Especially those who are unbelievers and hence have no union with the
life-giver. F697
"The hour is coming and now is when the dead shall hear the voice of the
Son of God." (John 5:25) R2435:1
Bury their dead -- The actually dead. Q760:4
Let the dead, the condemned and legally dead world, look out for its own
affairs. CR131:2
There are plenty in the world who can attend to the earthly things. R5371:1
Matthew 8:23
Entered into a ship -- The Master launched out with them occasionally to
obtain rest and quiet. R4577:1
Matthew 8:24
A great tempest -- Its violence may be judged from the fact that even
the Apostles, who were experienced on the sea, were alarmed. R4577:2
Probably the Adversary was permitted to develop the storm on Lake Galilee
for the very promise of the lesson it gave to the apostles. R4577:3
All are subject to the storms of life in which mighty billows threaten our
Picturing the experiences of the Church during the long night of 18
centuries in which she has been tempest-tossed. R3325:2
Picturing the great time of trouble. R5239:5
In the sea -- The Sea of Galilee is quite subject to such windstorms.
R3324:2
But he was asleep -- Evidently thoroughly exhausted with the labors of
his journey and ministry. R3324:3; HG459:2
Evidently the Lord's providence had something to do with his prolonged
sleep under such circumstances, to test the faith of his disciples.
R3324:3, 5239:3
Matthew 8:25
Lord, save us -- If we have trials and difficulties, or inner storms or

passion, anger, resentment, we should cry unto the Lord for help. R5239:4
Matthew 8:26
A great calm -- Waters, thus lashed to a fury, cannot be quickly calmed

except by a miracle. R3324:4
Typifying the great rest from the Evil One for a thousand years, now near
at hand. R3325:4
Rebuked the winds -- Illustrating the manner in which the time of
trouble will come to an end. A171
What the Lord is doing for the Church now, and what he will do in the
future for the world. R5239:5
Jesus would not have rebuked the storm if it had been caused by the
Father. Satan probably thought he could destroy Jesus by this storm.
R5239:3
Matthew 8:27
What manner of man -- In general his wonderful personality seemed really

incongruous with his general demeanor. SM749:3
During the Messianic Kingdom, all will know Jesus as having been a man,
The Sent of God, and as the now Highly Exalted One, far above men and
angels. SM754:2
Not until the disciples learned this lesson were they prepared to trust
him with all their trials, difficulties and interests. R4577:2
Similarly we, realizing that our Lord now has "all power in heaven and in
earth" (Matt. 28:18), can fully trust him and rest in his loving care.
R4577:2
The sea obey him -- The power to deliver from literal waves gives
confidence that he is able to deliver from every trouble. R4577:2; SM749:1
Matthew 8:28
Two possessed -- Using the human body as their medium, their body.
R4577:5
Intelligent physicians recognize that probably more than half of the
inmates of insane asylums are demon-possessed. R4577:5, 5044:2; SM197:T
Matthew 8:29
They cried out -- Knowing their final destiny, they tremble as the time
draws near. (Jas. 2:19) R606:5
Thou Son of God -- The devils acknowledged Christ when they had an
object in so doing. R2014:1
Admitting his lordship and power over them. F626
To do with thee -- In common with thee. R3772:2
To torment us -- To destroy us; the fear of destruction being doubtless
inculcated by witnessing man's death on account of sin. R254:5, 3772:1
These imprisoned spirits had in mind destruction as their final doom; but
their suppositions were incorrect, for Satan had misrepresented Jehovah's
plan to them. R697:1,4; HG729:6
The word "torment" here does not have the same thought as our word
torment. It would mean "do us distress," as a landlord is said to put a
tenant in distress for his rent; that is, he will put him out of the
premises for failure to pay his rent. Q222:4
This was the language of the demons. Whatever the fallen spirits might say
would not be good theology with any good Christian. Q222:4
We shall consider it an interference with our rights if deprived of the
privilege of tormenting this man. R3772:1
Before the time -- The demons evidently understood that the time for the
overthrow of the powers of evil was still future. R3727:2, 1722:4
Showing their expectation of some future termination of their present
restraint or imprisonment, a culmination of judgment in their case. F626
A plea for extension of time in which to come out of the man. R3772:1
Matthew 8:30
An herd -- Probably hundreds. It would appear that there were enough

demons to supply one for every hog, because, unlike sheep, a hog is
independent in its action. R4577:5
Many swine feeding -- The chief industry of that place. R4587:1
Contrary to the Jewish Law and therefore contraband. R3772:4
Matthew 8:31
So the devils -- Not attempting to deny their own identity, but

admitting his lordship and power over them. F626
These evil spirits were surely beings and not merely a disease of the
man's mind; else, how could they enter the swine? R3772:5
Besought him -- Evidently fallen angels cannot impose themselves upon
even the dumb animals until given some sort of permission. R2173:3
Matthew 8:32
And perished -- The destruction of everything obnoxious to the divine

will, even as swine were contraband to the Jewish law. R4577:6
Matthew 8:34
He would depart -- So today, the multitudes are moved specially by

temporal interests; the great blessings of the Lord go unnoticed. R4577:6
Out of the coasts -- Wherever the true gospel goes its effect is to
cause division and uproar in the kingdom of darkness. R1633:3
Matthew 9
Matthew 9:2
Brought to him a man -- The chief business of every Christian, besides

that of his own development, is to help others to the Redeemer. R3315:4
Seeing their faith -- The faith of the sick man and those who brought
him. R1921:2
Said -- Acting as the special agent, the representative of the Father.
R3729:2
Be of good cheer -- Possibly the palsied man and his friends felt
disappointed, not appreciating his work as Sin-Bearer. R4587:1 Thy sins be
forgiven -- The Lord placed the most important matter first. R3729:1
The Lord was teaching a lesson of the relationship between sin and
sickness, and his power to deliver from both. R4587:1
The ransom-price for the sins of the whole world was already on the altar.
R1921:3
Similar declarations of forgiveness of sins may be made by members of the
body of Christ to all who come unto God by Christ. R3315:2
Matthew 9:5
Thy sins be forgiven -- Transgression of the divine law could not be

forgiven except by the satisfaction of that law. R4587:2
The forgiveness of sins with the Jews would imply proportionate release
from sin's infirmities. R4587:4
Arise and walk -- If sickness is a judgment or discipline for sin, we
should expect that when sin has been confessed and repented of, the Lord
would remove the chastisement and raise up the penitent from his
affliction, either partially or wholly. R2008:4
Matthew 9:6
That ye may know -- That he could heal diseases he urged as proof that
he had power to forgive sins. R144:5
Matthew 9:9
Named Matthew -- Elsewhere styled "Levi." R4587:4

Meaning "the gift of God"; the name given to Levi by our Lord. R2260:3
He had undoubtedly been acquainted with the Lord and his work and the Lord
acquainted with him prior to his call. R2260:1
Receipt of custom -- A collector of taxes for the Roman government.
R4587:4, 2260:2
An occupation despised by the average Jew as being unpatriotic. R2591:1
Despised because it was considered disreputable to assist a foreign
government and because many of the publicans took advantage of their
position to make themselves wealthy through bribes and over-collections.
R4587:4, 2260:2
Matthew 9:10
Sat at meat -- Matthew at once made a supper for his friends, that these
might have the opportunity for acquaintance with the Lord, who was also a
guest. R4587:5
In the house -- In the home of those who have consecrated themselves to
the Lord, the first consideration should be the service of the Master.
R2591:3
Matthew 9:11
Why eateth -- Thereby implying social equality. R2591:5

He was not descending to sin in any form, but seeking to lift up sinners.
R4587:5
It was the loving kindness of Jesus that disturbed their pharisaical
nature and called forth their opposition. R539:1*
With publicans -- Tax collectors. R2591:1
Despised for two reasons: (1) it was considered disreputable to assist a
foreign government from one's friends; and (2) many publicans made
themselves wealthy by bribes and over-collections. R4587:4
And sinners -- Those not professing holiness. R2591:3
The Master did not hold himself aloof from people, but was warm, glowing,
sympathetic, helpful, intensive, whole-souled. R4967:3
He was fellowshipping with sinners that he might do them good. R4587:5
Matthew 9:12
They that be whole -- He had come as a physician to the sin-sick, and

they did not realize themselves as sin-sick, and hence had little interest
in the physician. Our Lord's words were uttered in sarcasm. NS410:4
A physician -- A physician has a right to mingle with those whom he
seeks to relieve. R2591:6
Physicians and medicine were not condemned by the Lord. He and his
disciples spent considerable money for bread, which is the medicine needed
when hungry. R2009:4
Matthew 9:13
I will have mercy -- They should have had the yearning compassion which
would have delighted to have lifted them out of sin and brought them
nearer to the Lord and to righteous influences. R2592:1
Quoted from Hosea 6:6. R4587:5, 2591:6 And not sacrifice -- God's work
in Christ was not to sacrifice the world, but to save it. R539:1*
The righteous -- Those who think of themselves as righteous. R2260:5
The sinners -- Those who realized themselves to be imperfect. R2260:5
To repentance -- But we are to recognize a great difference between
calling men to repentance and calling them to the high calling. F87
He was not descending to sin in any form, but seeking to lift up sinners.
R4587:5
Matthew 9:14
Why do we -- Fasts were intended for one of two purposes: a

manifestation of repentance, or with a view to bringing the heart into
closer communion with the Lord. NS153:1
From earliest times fasting has been recognized as a valuable adjunct to
piety. NS453:1
Fast oft -- Does not signify total abstinence from food, but a measure
of abstinence and self-restraint as respects the condiments and
delicacies. NS454:6
The more intelligent people of the world practice a kind of fasting or
self-denial every day they live. They have an aim in life and eat and
drink in harmony therewith. NS453:4
We recognize that the Lenten custom, while not instituted by the Lord, has
probably been a beneficial one physically, sometimes spiritually. NS453:5
Fasting, like baptism, may be either a mere form, injurious rather than
beneficial, or it may be observed with spiritual profit. NS153:4
But thy disciples -- Expressing surprise that fasting was not enjoined
by our Master's teachings as a law. NS453:1
The highest form of fasting, self-denial, is represented in our Lord; but,
since he was perfect, it is perhaps better illustrated by the Apostle
Paul. NS454:2
Fast not -- Showing that our Lord did not impose literal fasting upon
his disciples. R2260:5, 4987:2; NS154:4
Matthew 9:15
Can the children -- Why should they fast? Their sins had been forgiven,
they had been accepted of the Lord and taught to call the Almighty "our
Father in heaven." NS154:5
Bridegroom -- Jesus, personally, is the Bridegroom, and not Jesus and
the overcomers. R398:4
Jesus is pictured as a Bridegroom, and his followers as a bride company.
R5178:2
Shall be taken -- Implying that, with his return, the fasting will cease
and a great feast of joy ushered in. NS155:1
And then -- When the Bridegroom would be away, there would be abundance
of perplexity and sorrow, and then fasting would be in order, throughout
the Gospel age. R2592:2, 4987:4
Shall they fast -- Waiting for his return. NS155:1
All through the Gospel age it has been appropriate that the Lord's
followers fast with the true fasting of self-denial, hungering and
thirsting after righteousness. NS155:1
We may safely conclude that all "abstaining from fleshly lusts" or desires
is real fasting, the kind most approved in the Lord's sight. NS153:5
"If any man will come after me, let him deny himself [fast in the true
sense]." (Matt. 16:24) NS154:1
In the Dark Ages the food supply was made more and more unnutritious,
forcing a fast, which ultimately amounted almost to a "famine for the
hearing of the words of the Lord." (Amos 8:11) NS155:2
We have good New Testament precedent for the observance of literal fasts.
R2022:5; NS153:3
Discipline the body by abstaining from delicacies and relishes. R3659:5
Very plain diet or total abstinence from food is occasionally desirable to
many of the Lord's people who are full-blooded and impulsive. R2260:5
Fasting is proper when done from a right motive, but worse than useless
when done as a formality, to be seen of men, that they might think us
holy. R2260:5
Typically means self-denial. R2592:2
None will be admitted to Kingdom glories except those who practice
fasting, self-denial. Without self-denial no one will ever attain to
eternal life, neither in the present age nor in the age to come. NS455:4-6
Let us continue the fasting of self-denial, but let us seek more and more
to appreciate and to digest the spiritual food he now is supplying through
his faithful ones. NS156:1
A concomitant of mourning and sorrow. R2260:5
Matthew 9:16
Piece of new cloth -- The fuller light of truth due at the first and
second advents of our Lord; the Gospel message. C160; R4987:5
Unto an old garment -- Old sects and organizations. C160
It is of no use to patch the sects with the doctrines of the new
dispensation. R1084:4*
Perhaps the first intimation our Lord had given of the fact that Israel as
a nation would not be found worthy of the Kingdom and would be rejected.
R2260:6
The Gospel teaching is not a patch upon the Jewish law, but a new
proposition. R4987:5
From the garment -- Would tear it to shreds. C160; R4987:5
Matthew 9:17
Neither do -- These two parables were given to emphasize that before the
blessing could come to natural Israel, Spiritual Israel must be selected.
R4987:5
Men put new wine -- New doctrines, truths; the Gospel message. C160;
R4987:5
New principles of justice and equality among men, now stretching the old
system of things, which ultimately will burst and destroy the present
social order. R1143:3
Into old bottles -- Literally, old wineskins, out of which all the
elasticity has gone; symbolically, old systems. C160; R4987:5
The bottles break -- Rent asunder by the new truths which are out of
harmony with the sectarian pride, errors, superstitions and traditions of
these systems. C160
And the wine -- The new doctrines. C160
The Gospel message, committed to a special class. R4987:5
Runneth out -- Are left stranded, hampered by all the old errors of the
sect and held responsible for its past record by the world. C160
Into new bottles -- New wineskins, "new creatures in Christ," who will
be able to stand the stress of the fermentation of trials, disciplines and
testings. R4987:5
Matthew 9:18
While he spake -- While Jesus was at the house of Matthew, probably at

the conclusion of the banquet, Jairus arrived. R2617:1
A certain ruler -- Jairus, the ruler of the synagogue in Capernaum, our
Lord's home city. R4588:3
He knew Jesus well. He sometimes called upon him to read the Sabbath
lesson (Luke 4:16). Once he entreated the Lord on behalf of the
centurion's servant (Luke 7:4). R4588:3
Properly given audience first because of his prominence as a
representative man. R4588:5
The four miracles of verses 18 to 34 illustrate faith from four different
standpoints: (1) the faith of Jairus on behalf of his daughter; (2) the
faith of the woman on her own account; (3) the faith of the two blind men
encouraging each other; and (4) the faith of the friends of the deaf and
dumb man possessed with a demon. R4588:3
Worshipped him -- Manifested his faith by his conduct, expressing his
homage, obedience and faith. R4588:5
My daughter -- His only daughter, twelve years old. R4588:3
Is even now dead -- Was at the point of death when I left home, and is
no doubt dead by now. R2617:2
If, according to some theories, having died she paid her own penalty, she
should be free from death after Jesus restored life to her. But she died
again. R392:1
Matthew 9:20
Touched the hem -- The strength immediately came into her body, just as
the touching of a storage battery with a wire would draw the electric
current. R4588:6
Matthew 9:22
Jesus turned -- Imagine the feelings of Jairus in consequence of this

delay; while it added to his faith in the power of Jesus, it at the same
time tested his faith in respect to the recovery of his child. R2617:2
Thy faith -- Faith does not spurn reason, but uses it with certain
prescribed and rational lines. R4588:2
Matthew 9:23
The minstrels -- The hired mourners, some playing doleful tunes on

flutes. R2617:4, 4588:5
The people -- Neighbors had gathered, in harmony with Jewish custom.
R4588:5
Making a noise -- Shrieking and murmuring. R4588:5
Matthew 9:24
But sleepeth -- A synonym for death, but only in view of the

hoped-for-awakening, the resurrection. R2959:2
It is not extinct, has a hope of a resurrection. R2959:2; PD61/72
Death is a condition of rest, of quiet, of peaceful unconsciousness. E329;
R5059:6, 4794:2, 4588:5
She was dead, according to the usual human expression, but asleep from the
divine standpoint. R4588:5
Because of Christ's redemptive work, death no longer should be regarded as
a perished condition, but as a "sleep." R1126:2; HG293:5
If they sleep, it can not also be true that they enjoy immediate communion
with God and the visions of his glory. R3028:1
The Second Death is never referred to as a sleep. R1939:4
Matthew 9:25
And the maid arose -- Did not come back from heaven or hell, and was not
resurrected, but was merely awakened out of the sleep of death because
Christ was "The first-fruits of them that slept" (1 Cor. 15:20), "The
first that should rise from the dead" (Acts 26:23). R2618:2,4
Matthew 9:26
And the fame -- As the fame of Jesus increased, because of his miracles
and teaching, the opposition became more pronounced, especially from the
Chief Priests, as they were brought into competition and unfavorable
comparison with him. R1735:3
Went abroad -- Threatening the immediate advancement of Jesus to the
kingly office. R1754:3
Matthew 9:27
Two blind men -- Encouraged one another and both got the desired
blessings. This illustrates the advantage of Church fellowship in respect
to faith-stimulation. R4589:1
Thou son of David -- The long-promised king of David's line, the
Messiah. SM210:2; C257; E133; PD65/77
"The Lord shall give him the throne of his father David." (Luke 1:32) C257
The Righteous Branch from the Davidic root. E134
Matthew 9:29
According to your faith -- Now God's rule for dealing with the Church.
R5129:1
Because now good and perfect works are impossible. CR324:5
Faith should triumph, or the light of joy and blessing will die. R5148:4
God will reward us according to our faith, confidence, honesty and
sincerity. R5594:1
Much faith, much rest; little faith, little rest. R5433:4, 3841:6
Faith which has a true foundation is very precious in the Lord's sight.
R5095:6
Faith is a matter of steps and development; and only the developed faith
could possibly bring to us the blessing of the Abrahamic covenant. R4377:2
Our faith must be corroborated by our works, but these cannot be perfect
because of weakness. Only our faith and intention can be perfect now, and
according to these the Lord deals with us. NS70:5
Faith brings advancement towards holiness. PT391:1*
Every exercise of faith is based on something real and tangible to faith.
R5717:5 Not works, as will be the case during the Millennial age. F113
Matthew 9:31
Spread abroad his fame -- Their joy was so great that the Lord's
humility in the matter served to draw forth their praises the louder.
NS70:5; R4589:1
Those healed of blindness loudly praised the Lord. So with us when the
eyes of our understanding are opened: we cannot refrain from telling the
good tidings. R4589:1
Matthew 9:34
Casteth out devils -- Greek, daimonion, demons, unclean spirits,

familiar spirits, the fallen angels. R5183:3; SM548:3
Through -- That would be suicidal. It would be equivalent to a king
stirring up strife in his own kingdom and working against his own cause.
R1736:2
Prince of the devils -- Greek, diabolos, the devil, Satan, Beelzebub.
R5183:3, 3310:4
No doubt, as a superior order of being, Satan exercises some degree of
control over the others. HG725:3
Until the saints of God have been sealed in their foreheads. (Rev. 7:1-3)
R4880:6
To Jesus, a "contradiction of sinners against himself." (Heb. 12:3) An
example of "when he was reviled, he reviled not again." (1 Pet. 2:23)
R4802:5,6
Matthew 9:35
In their synagogues -- The fact that Jesus could and did preach in the
synagogues shows that the Jews possessed greater liberty than now prevails
among God's professed people. R2635:2
Every sickness -- To illustrate the healing and restoring work which his
Kingdom will do in its appointed time. R5075:3
Matthew 9:36
With compassion -- Not only upon his people, but, in due time, upon all
the families of the earth. R2635:3
Compassion will be an element of the Lord's character as long as there are
any who need help and desire it, until the close of the Millennial age.
R2635:5
Matthew 9:37
The harvest -- Of the Jewish age. B15, 160; R5018:2

The end of the Gospel age, like the end of the Jewish age, is called a
harvest. B15, 160
The harvest work consists of various parts. These are more or less
important. We might misunderstand the value of these different parts of
the work. CR339:3
The Great Teacher tells us distinctly that while his work was that of
reaping, he blended it with a sowing. R5018:3, 4891:3
He was then manifested in the double character of Bridegroom and Reaper
(see verse 15) R115:1*
Is plenteous -- The way to accomplish large results is not to hope that
someone else may do and hear and get a blessing in the service, but for
each to resolve to do what he can. R3296:4
Private conversation has had the largest influence as far as reaching
people is concerned. CR342:5
The details of the Gospel age harvest work in detail. CR341-344
The laborers are few -- His disciples, two by two; and later, he sent
"seventy also." R5018:3, 4891:3
It was their privilege to be all the more energetic because of the "great
field" and the few to reap it. R5075:6
The labors of Jesus and the Apostles found about 500 brethren worthy of
garnering during his ministry. R4968:6
Matthew 9:38
Pray ye -- He wished them to feel a measure of responsibility in the

work, even though he himself was the Lord of that harvest, even though he
was the responsible one. R5075:6
The Master would have every one of us feel a deep interest in the harvest
work now in progress in the end of this age. R5075:6
Whoever is praying for the Lord to send a laborer knows the laborer that
is nearest him--that is, himself. CR339:1; R5144:3, 3296:1
Let us labor while we pray. R5146:1
If our work is of him, he is able to sustain it, and he will do so until
it shall be finished. If it is not of the Lord, the sooner it stops the
better we should be pleased. R4892:1
Prayers not accompanied by efforts are not sincere. R4913:1
Send forth laborers -- Jesus is the Chief Reaper, but he is not doing
the work directly himself, but is supervising it. His disciples are
engaged in that work. CR340:2
All have the opportunity of harvest work. CR343:6
And ask the Lord to help you be a reaper. R3296:1,5, 2635:6, 225:5
Sometimes the Lord's people put too much value on money and not enough on
service. No place are we told to pray for money, but we are told the
harvest is great and the laborers are few. R3513:6*
If we were all conscientious, it would mean, What are you doing yourself?
CR339:2
Matthew 10
Matthew 10:1
His twelve disciples -- Not until they had received considerable

instruction from him were they recognized in their office as apostles and
fully empowered for their special work. R2261:1
Gave them power -- Authority. R2635:6
The power for the healing of the sick was Jesus' power. The disciples did
not use their own ability, but merely his, which he communicated to them
and authorized them to use. R2636:1
They had not the Father's appointment. They had not yet received the holy
Spirit. But, by virtue of the holy Spirit given without measure to Jesus,
he conferred upon them his own special powers. R4593:2
Unclean spirits -- Greek, daimonion, demons, familiar spirits, the
fallen angels. R5183:3, 2173:2
To cast them out -- A power used by St. Paul in Philippi. (Acts
16:16-18) R5908:1
And to heal -- The same power Jesus had because he gave them the same
message of the Kingdom to proclaim. R5075:3
At the expense of Jesus' own vitality. R2636:1
Merely as foregleams of the blessings which in fuller measure would result
from the inauguration of Messiah's Kingdom. R2261:5
The truth now needs no such endorsement as the miracle-working power given
at first. R1742:6
Manner of disease -- Typifying our present privilege of opening deaf
ears and blind eyes to the knowledge of the Lord's great plan. R2636:4
Matthew 10:2
The twelve -- No more and no less. F210; CR415:4

Only twelve, St. Paul taking Judas' place. CR415:4
Apostles -- Greek, apostolos, sent forth ones. F210
Typified by the twelve springs, or fountains, at Elim. R4011:2
Only the males were to be the special public servants. F265
Are these -- Mentioned apparently in the order of their sending forth,
two by two. R2261:1
Peter -- Bold and impetuous. R2261:1*
And -- Grouping the apostles, whose imperfections were perhaps like our
own, of the nature of halfness. We, too, frequently see one side of a
truth and not the other. R2261:1*
It seems now also to be his general method to send the messengers who bear
to the household the present truth in couples. R2262:1
Andrew -- Far-seeing, careful, cautious. R2261:1*
James -- Elderly. R2261:1*
John -- Youthful. R2261:1*
Matthew 10:3
Philip -- The slow-witted. R2261:1*

Bartholomew -- Nathaniel, the quick-witted. R2261:1*
Thomas -- The doubting, skeptical intellect. R2261:1*
Tradition has it that St. Thomas visited Ceylon and Madras. R5012:4
Matthew -- One of the heroes of faith. R2261:1*
The publican -- Our Lord's choice of a publican indicates the
impartiality of his selections and implies that Matthew could not have
been one of the dishonest publicans. R2260:2
They were classed with sinners and harlots in New Testament usage, and the
Hebrew Talmud classes them with murderers and thieves and regards their
repentance as impossible. R2260:2
Matthew is the only one of the evangelists who mentions that he was a
publican; this shows his humility. R2260:2
James -- The advocate of works. R2261:2*
Labbaeus -- Jude, a man of doctrine. R2261:2*, 3044:2
Matthew 10:4
Simon -- The zealot, enthusiastic and independent. R2261:2*

Judas Iscariot -- The conservative economist. R2261:2*
In each of the six pairs the Lord made one good man out of two half-men.
R2261:2*
Matthew 10:5
Way of the Gentiles -- Until the 70th week of Israel's favor had come to
an end. C170; R1784:1, 1451:2; HG354:4
True Israelites only were to be sought. R2601:2
Because all of God's covenants and promises were still confined to the
nation of Israel. R2635:6, 2512:2
No favor could go to the Gentiles until after natural Israel had received
the opportunity and used it as far as they would. R5076:1
In due time, when led of the spirit, the disciples did go to all nations.
C170; Q547:T
Jesus did not day by day lay down his life in serving the world, but only
Israel. R4492:3
It was appropriate that the harvest, which belonged to the Jews, should be
confined to them. R5076:1
Of the Samaritans -- Gentiles with an admixture of Jewish blood.
R4556:3, 4130:3, 2960:3
The mixed people settled in parts of Palestine by the Babylonian
government at the time the Jews were permitted to return from their
captivity. R3649:4, 4130:2
Not of pure Israelitish stock, nor fully conformed to all the laws and
customs of the Jews. R2069:3 Although they claimed Jacob as their father
also. R2261:2
A semi-religious people. NS207:5
Our Lord thus marking the Samaritans as being separate and distinct from
the Israelites. R2960:3
Matthew 10:6
But go rather -- Even when the apostles were finally sent to preach the
gospel to all the world they were told to begin at Jerusalem. (Acts 1:8)
R1783:6
To the lost sheep -- Not because they had wandered out of the land of
Israel, nor because they had lost their identity as Israelites, but
because they had wandered from the Lord and their covenant. R2261:2
Jesus' ministry was confined to the Jewish nation. OV224:T; HG539:6
True Jews, and these only, were called upon to make ready their hearts to
be participants in the Kingdom. R4593:3
Similarly today, the harvest message is only to the household of faith,
spiritual Israel. R5076:2, 1742:4
The house of Israel -- "I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the
house of Israel." (Matt. 15:24) "You only have I known of all the families
of the earth." (Amos 3:2) A72, 97
The whole twelve tribes, all of whom therefore were represented in
Palestine. B207; C252, 293; R2084:6, 1341:1; Q354:1
Our Lord said not a word about "the house of Judah," which he manifestly
considered was merely a part of the whole nation of Israel. C300
It was to be a harvesting work and neither plowing, harrowing or sowing
had been done with the Gentiles, but only with the Jews. R5076:2
Matthew 10:7
As ye go, preach -- The commission of the apostles was one of service,

not lordship. F212
This commission of the apostles was, in the main, the same as the
commission of the Lord and the whole Church. R1521:5
Then orally; while in this harvest the preaching is done largely by the
printed page. R1742:5
Saying -- Not, "You will go to hell fire and eternal torment unless you
repent." R2261:4
Kingdom of heaven -- Promised to Abraham and his Seed. R2261:3
The hope of every Israelite. A273
It was the main topic of all Jesus' preaching, other subjects being
mentioned in connection with, or in explanation of, this one subject. A273
The entire work of this Gospel age was to be the preaching of the Kingdom.
R2139:1, 1579:3
Is at hand -- In the sense that Jesus was present to make a formal
tender of the Kingdom to Abraham's natural seed. R4557:2
The 69 weeks of Daniel's prophecy have expired. R3630:2
The Deliverer has come. B236; C136
Signifying that God's time had come to fulfill all of his promises made to
the Jewish nation if they were ready for them. R4593:5
It is this message which was the test of natural Israel and is now the
test of Spiritual Israel. C136
Our message is similar now, except that we announce the Kingdom is at hand
in great power and glory. R1742:3
The offering of the Kingdom now is much more tangible and can be
demonstrated much more clearly than was possible then, for it is nigh,
even at the doors. R2636:4
Peter's suggestion to return to fishing after Jesus' crucifixion was
because he did not then see how he could continue to preach this message.
B117
Matthew 10:8
Freely ye have received -- This referred to the gift of healing which

had been imparted freely to them and which they were to freely use for the
good of their fellowmen. R449:4
They were giving what cost them nothing, but which was costing Jesus much
daily and hourly. R2636:1
Freely give -- The apostles had something to give, but not to sell.
R2261:5
Let us give to others the glorious light of Present Truth. R5063:1
Matthew 10:9
Provide neither gold -- Showing that they were expected to be so

thoroughly engaged in the work that they would not have time to "labor for
the meat that perishes" and would be provided with their physical needs by
those to whom they ministered. R449:4
Subsequently the apostles acted very differently--the Apostle Paul, for
instance, making tents. The change was under the Lord's direction. (Luke
22:35,36) R2500:2
Matthew 10:10
Nor scrip -- Valise, satchel. They were not to take up any collections
or even have with them anything wherein to carry a surplus. R2261:6
They were to make no provision for their journey. They were to learn a
lesson of absolute dependence upon the Master who sent them forth. R4593:3
Worthy of his meat -- They were to expect to find a home and the
necessities of life wherever they went, giving back in exchange for these
temporal blessings the blessings they had been empowered to bestow. R2261:5
They assumed therefore that they were merely to accept what might be
voluntarily tendered. R5076:2 These instructions, afterward changed by the
Lord, are not applicable to the present time. R2500:2, 1743:2
The messengers of present truth are not money-gatherers; but they merely
exchange, for the blessings which they confer, enough financial support to
meet their expenses economically. R2262:1
Matthew 10:11
Who in it is worthy -- Those who hunger after righteousness, truth.

R957:1
The most holy people, the ones who would be specially interested in their
message, whether rich or poor. R4593:3
It was our Lord's mission, as it is ours as his followers, to preach the
good tidings to the meek. (Isa. 61:1) R956:3
Matthew 10:12
Salute it -- Salute the householder in a dignified manner, advising him

of the object of your call. R4593:3
Matthew 10:13
Let your peace -- The divine blessing upon all the affairs of the
household. R2261:6, 5076:2, 4593:3
The family would be blessed of the Lord because of the presence of his
representatives. R2261:6
If it be not worthy -- They were not to stay in any place where the
Lord's blessing would not be appreciated. R2261:6
Your peace return -- Those rejecting them and their message would lose a
great privilege. R4593:3
Matthew 10:14
Not receive you -- It was the duty of the covenant people to receive and
entertain the messengers of the Lord; their receiving or rejecting would
be a test of their fidelity to God. R1988:2, 1742:6
Shake off the dust -- For a testimony against them, because in their
rejection they were violating their most solemn covenant with God. R1743:1
To symbolize renunciation of all responsibility for the consequences of
rejecting the message. R2262:4
Out of order in this harvest, for no city or community as such is now in
covenant relationship with God, as was Israel. R1743:3
Matthew 10:15
More tolerable -- In proportion as anyone comes to a knowledge of Christ,

he has become responsible. R4594:4, 1986:4, 569:6; HG647:6; NS311:4::
The chastisement and discipline necessary to their restoration to
righteousness will be less severe for them than for some who are of the
natural lineage of Abraham. R1374:2
This implies that the treatment will be tolerable in any event. R5076:4,
1618:4
Those who have been favored with the message of truth and have turned a
deaf ear, while professing to be followers of Christ, will find conditions
of the incoming age less favorable to them than to heathen people. R5980:4
The land of Sodom -- Who sinned against the dimmed and waning light of
nature. R1618:4
Those Sodomites were condemned to death before they were born, as are all
of Adam's children. The only thing that came upon the Sodomites specially
was that they died violent deaths. R5076:5
The Sodomites were wickedly immoral; yet they were less wicked than those
who, after hearing the Gospel, reject it. R4594:1, 5076:4; PD24/35
Day of judgment -- The whole world will be on trial for everlasting life
or everlasting death in the Millennial age. R4594:4
Than for that city -- The condemnation was not an individual one, either
then or at the full end of their age. R1743:2
The condemnation was not to eternal death, but to the deprivation of the
privileges and blessings of the new dispensation then about to be offered
to them. R1743:1
The people of Jerusalem suffered more in their time of trouble (AD 69-70)
than did the people of Sodom and Gomorrha in their calamity. R2262:4
The sin of carelessness in respect to the message of the Kingdom is, in
God's sight, an indication of a still meaner condition of heart, of a
still more wicked person. R5076:4
Either fleshly or spiritual: upon fleshly Israel a terrible overthrow
accompanied with desolation and famine; upon nominal spiritual Israel a
period of unparalleled trouble. R1743:4
Matthew 10:16
Behold -- The remainder of the chapter shows that the work of the
apostles then sent forth typifies the entire work of this Gospel age.
R2262:4
In the midst of wolves -- "For grievous wolves shall enter in among you,
not sparing the flock." (Acts 20:29) R3331:3
Be ye therefore wise -- Neat in appearance; kind, interested and
dignified in language and manner; taking advantage of all circumstances to
stir up interest. R825:3
We are to do nothing foolish nor go out on the streets to stir up trouble,
but use the spirit of a sound mind--gentleness, meekness, patience,
brotherly-kindness and love. R5846:4
Just as Peter was patient in his explanation of the Lord's providence and
leadings in respect to the greater lengths and breadths of divine favor.
(Acts 11) R2996:5
On every occasion use wisdom, and pray to God in regard to any important
step in your life or home. Q543:T
Wisdom is to be exercised in the presentation of the Lord's Word. CR156:4;
R5146:3, 5151:6
With our burning love and zeal for God and righteousness, we should also
have moderation. R4712:2
There is a mild way of doing things that will avoid much of the bitterness
and reproach, and that is the better way. Q740:4
Do not attempt to tell all about the plan of God. The reading will do that
better. Tell just enough to make them desire to know more. R825:4
We are not to choke Christian brethren who are merest babes in the
knowledge of God's Word. R5151:3, 868:4
Not giving strong meat to those who are babes in Christ, but first the
sincere milk of the word, and afterward stronger truth as they are able to
bear it. R657:5* If you have opportunity to help one out of wrong views
into right views, it should be done with sympathy. R5604:4
In training children, follow the directions of the Lord's Word. Q545:1
Many of the Lord's people need to learn tactfulness; some mistakenly
believe that they must use no tact--that to do so would be dishonest.
R4130:6
A spirit boasting or glorying over others, because our views are more
consistent than theirs, will always drive them away. We might use the
truth as a club to show our strength, but it will not bring men to God.
R746:1*
As serpents -- The serpent does not, in approaching his victim, rush out
in a manner to frighten, intimidate and repulse. His approaches are very
careful, and yet effectual. R745:3*
If necessary, he can wait long and patiently, while the victim runs or
flees, still holding himself in that position which will most favorably
influence. R745:6*
The cat usually conceals itself, but the serpent often presents itself to
full view and, by the attraction which it presents, secures its object.
R745:6*
Harmless as doves -- In talking to friends, we should not give any hint
that they do not belong to the family of God; it is better to class
ourselves in with all as true neighbors. R5146:3
Matthew 10:17
Beware of men -- Evil men. R1670:6

In their synagogues -- The Lord and apostles could teach the people
there for a time; but as they shunned not to declare the whole counsel of
God, they soon found little, and finally, no opportunity to teach the
people there. R986:5
Matthew 10:18
Brought before governors -- Strikingly fulfilled by Paul before King

Agrippa. R1569:4
Matthew 10:19
Take no thought -- Beforehand; relying on God's power. R5330:4

The Greek here seems to give the thought: Do not be worried when you shall
be brought before kings and judges. R5330:4
Applied with special force to the early Church when our Lord's followers
were ignorant and unlearned, uneducated. R5330:5
It shall be given you -- Perhaps by suggestions from another, perhaps
through the testimony of someone else, or it may be a text of Scripture
that would come to mind. R5330:4
Supernatural assistance, illustrated in the first Christian persecution:
Peter, as spokesman, was "filled with the holy Spirit." (Acts 4:8) R2939:5
Matthew 10:20
Spirit of your Father -- The right thought of ordination. R5363:1

The apostles had not yet received the spirit of the Father directly. It
had been imparted to the Son, and he shared it with them. R5363:1
Whoever heard them and despised them also despised the Master and the
Father. R5363:6
Speaketh in you -- Not that we are to expect to have miraculous powers
of speech granted us, but that we will be filled with the truth. Then it
will be true that it will not be our own wisdom, nor our own plan, that we
shall declare. R2636:5
Matthew 10:22
Be hated of all men -- Our Lord's faithfulness made him of "no

reputation." Paul and the early Church were "counted fools" for Christ's
sake. Whoever shall live godly in the present time shall "suffer
persecution" of some sort. R1109:6
The world does not realize that the body of Christ, now in humiliation, is
a body of kings and priests, who shall by and by bear rule over angels and
men. R1102:2
If you faithfully exercise your ambassadorship. E490; R2852:6
Endureth to the end -- A diamond is tested by being put under pressure;
so God allows us to come under the constant pressure of years of toil,
care and self-sacrifice to see how well we will endure. R3104:1
Matthew 10:23
They persecute you -- Whosoever is faithful will suffer persecution. To

be without opposition is proof that God is not dealing with us as sons.
R5223:4
Flee ye into another -- From troubles too great to be borne. F508
Illustrated by Paul's flight from Iconium to Lystra (Acts 14:6) and from
Lystra to Derbe (Acts 14:20). R4368:6, 1472:4
Illustrated by Paul's flight from Damascus: "Through a window in a basket
was I let down by the wall, and escaped his hands." (2 Cor. 11:33) R3738:3
At the first great persecution in Jerusalem, "They that were scattered
abroad went everywhere, preaching the Word." (Acts 8:4) R2959:2
We should not always flee persecutions, but sometimes it might be an
indication from the Lord that he has service for us in some other field of
labor. R4409:4
But we are not authorized to retaliate. R3738:3
The cities of Israel -- The time is short but we shall have time, and no
more, to go over all the cities of spiritual Israel before the grand
consummation. R2645:3
Son of man be come -- Be presented as king, and the testing of the
nation reach its climax, reached when our Lord declared their house
henceforth left desolate. (Luke 13:35) R2645:2; HG161:2
Signified that the mission of the Church, witnessing to all nations, will
not be more than accomplished before the coming of the Lord in the power
and glory of his Kingdom. R4011:2
Matthew 10:24
Not above his master -- As our Lord suffered violence from the Prince of
this world, so will his followers. OV343:2
Nor the servant -- These words forewarn us to expect similarly false
accusations and cruel treatment. R4473:4
Above his lord -- He taught in various synagogues carrying the same
message, which always had the effect to draw the few and repel the many.
R356:5
Matthew 10:25
Be as his master -- It will probably be the privilege of the last

members of the body of Christ to suffer violence, as did the Head. C231
As his lord -- If the majority heard his words, you might expect them to
hear yours; but if as a mass they rejected his words, they will reject
yours also. R571:5
If they have called -- The chief religionists of his day. E236; R374:3
If they say all manner of evil against him, what must you expect? CR163:3
Beelzebub -- A prince of devils. E236; R374:4
Because he pointed out their false doctrines. E236
How much more -- Particularly in the case of a faithful and capable
elder. F293
Them of his household -- In these, as representatives of the Heavenly
Kingdom, the Kingdom of Heaven has suffered violence throughout the
Gospel age. CR492:5
They crucified him; do you expect they would receive you very favorably?
Q688:1
Matthew 10:26
Is nothing covered -- This prophecy is as true in the judgment of

nations as of individuals. D541
The greater portion of divine truth has been expressed under cover so that
its full import is not always discernible. R801:2*
Serving several objects: (1) the successful development of God's plan; (2)
the saving from discouragement because of the length of time involved; and
(3) the trial of the faith of those who believe. R801:2*
Not be revealed -- A testimony dreaded but disbelieved by unjust
stewards of wealth and power. C20
The masks will all be taken off and every man will be estimated, by both
God and man, according to the real merit of his motives. R801:5*
At the present time, things social, political and financial are being
brought to light, more and more shaking the confidence of the people in
their teachers, representatives and rulers. NS144:6, 275:3
The secrets of nations are being exposed. Injustice in its every form is
being brought to light. Inequity in financial institutions and in politics
and in private affairs is being muckraked. NS853:2
If justice were meted out, many of earth's rulers would change places with
their subjects or be put into prison; many of the great and lordly would
be stripped of glory and seen in their true light as ignoble. C20
God's due time has come to turn on the light; in religion, it is revealing
the true and exposing the false. R801:6*
Remember that, by powers yet more subtle than X-rays, "God our inmost
thoughts doth read." R1954:3
Truth in every sense must be made manifest. The truths of nature, science
and God's written revelation will be seen to be in perfect agreement.
R801:6*
That shall not be known -- During the Millennial age. A303
The murderer will be faced by his victim, the debtor by his creditor, the
thief by his dupe, the defamer by the one he defamed. R1655:1
Quite probably the restored man of the Millennial period will have
considerable of the power of mind-reading, and intuitive discernment, over
the imperfect. R1954:3
Matthew 10:27
Speak ye -- With the blessed knowledge always comes the responsibility

of making it known. R801:3*
Matthew 10:28
Fear not -- The child of God is to be very courageous, knowing that God
will not permit anything to come to him that will not be for his good.
R5977:3
Which kill the body -- No man could do more than take away our present
earthly life, already under sentence of death; no man can take away our
future life. R5977:3, 2602:5; E332; CR9:1; NS396:3
Man is not annihilated at the first death. R1449:5
Are not able -- A future life is a possibility which no man can rob you
of. God has provided it through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.
E332
However great a power, "the power of death" (Heb. 2:14), Satan may
exercise over the world, we know that his power does not extend to the
Church. R1779:6, 1271:3
Our revived souls will have new bodies (spiritual or natural); and these
[bodies], none will have liberty to kill. R2602:4
To kill the soul -- The future life. OV169:3
The being which God has promised shall be revived or restored by his power
in the resurrection day, the Millennial age, because of Christ's
redemption. E332; R5977:3, 5612:1, 2602:4
The right of life that God has given you through your relationship to
Christ, the life-giver. HG205:6
But rather fear him -- Have respect and deference to Jehovah, with whom
are the issues of life everlasting. E332; R2602:5
Reverence him. We should have a great appreciation of his highness and our
own littleness. R4746:6
Fear lest we should lose our fellowship with him. R5977:6
Which is able -- In spite of misbeliefs to the contrary, the soul can be
put out of existence. E332; R5611:6
God would bring no being into existence whom he could not destroy if found
unworthy of life. CR498:4
To destroy -- It is less difficult to destroy than to create a being. He
who created all things must be "able to destroy" both soul and body.
R1641:3; HG334:5; OV34:1
Both soul and body -- Both the present dying existence and all hope of
future life. SM179:T; R2953:1, 2602:5
Not only the body of the willful sinner perishes; but his soul, being, is
forever blotted out of existence, having no hope of a resurrection. R876:4*
In hell -- Gehenna, the valley of Hinnom, defined here by Jesus as a
place of destruction and not a place of torment. HG511:3
Gehenna, the second death, utter destruction. R2602:5, 5612:1, 4956:1,
4746:6, 3083:5, 1882:1, 1449:5; CR498:4; HG654:1
Matthew 10:29
Fall on the ground -- He whose mind and heart grasp the personality of
the Heavenly Father catches the significance of these words. OV2:5; SM623:2
Matthew 10:30
Hairs of your head -- Our smallest interest is not overlooked. R1906:5

Are all numbered -- May not suffer injury without his knowledge and
consent. HG294:6
No accident ever "happens" to God's elect. F646; R2007:2
Matthew 10:31
Ye are of more value -- The true Christian has, in his own personal
experiences, abundant proof of our Father's love and care. R5717:6 There
is a mental tangibility for faith; but also a physical, or outward,
tangibility. R5717:5
He who has begun the good work in you is able to care for all your
interests, both temporal and spiritual. NS659:5
Matthew 10:33
Whosoever shall deny -- Every one in the Lord's company will have been a
faithful soldier; not a deserter, not ashamed of the Lord, nor ashamed of
his truth. R5942:4
Matthew 10:34
Not to send peace -- The harvest is not a time for peace, but, on the
contrary, it will surely produce separation and alienation between true
wheat and all else. R969:6
While our Lord was courteous and kind, he expressed his righteous
indignation against evil-doers, and particularly against hypocrites.
R1103:1
Zion is at ease and self-satisfied; and, when we cry aloud and show God's
people their sins, they become enraged and complain that we are troubling
Israel. R235:4
As surely as we let the world alone to do their own will without warning,
we will escape persecution and live at peace with the world. But as surely
as the Lord did not do it, we must not do it. R1069:2*
But a sword -- Division. R536:3
The truth is a sword in the present harvest, as it was in the Jewish
harvest. R1843:4, 235:4
Trouble between those who love the truth supremely and others of the
family; this division cannot be avoided. B236
Because the children of darkness wage a continual warfare against the
light. F533
The Gospel of Christ did create differences in the Jewish system then, as
the Gospel truth is doing now in Christendom. R4408:5
"The sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God" (Eph. 6:17) separates
in congregations and homes. R2183:2
Matthew 10:35
For I am come -- In the harvests of the Jewish and Gospel ages. B236
At variance -- In the harvest the sickle of truth is doing its work of
separation; not only wheat from tares, true from false, but the ripe wheat
is also separated from the unripe. R1069:3*
Against his father -- The harvest will mean, in many instances, the
uprooting of earthly friendships and the sundering of many tender ties,
and the truth will do the separating. B236
Matthew 10:36
His own household -- Because of the truth. B236

And it is true now that many of the Lord's most faithful children live in
a matrimonial furnace of affliction. F507
Matthew 10:37
Loveth -- Greek, phileo, as filial or "duty love" toward. R2807:2

Father or mother -- Duty love to our family relatives is right, but it
must not equal our duty love to the Lord. R2807:2
Or self, or popularity, or worldly prosperity, or honor of men, or human
theories and systems. D268; R942:1
More than me -- And my truth. C210
Not preventing love for others, in proportion as they are good and pure;
but if a clash of interest should come, we should be ready to decide for
the Lord at once. R874:3
Signifies a cutting off of every other love that would conflict with our
love for the Lord. Our earthly loves are to be counted as nothing in
comparison. R5426:2 "Lovest thou me more than these?" (John 21:15) R2808:6
Matthew 10:38
Not his cross -- Not sharing the Lord's reproaches and self-denials.
R901:6
Not worthy of me -- Not of the class he wishes to make his bride. R901:6
If we turn aside from the path of humiliation and daily cross-bearing and
strife for present exaltation and preferment, we are forgetting the very
conditions upon which the future exaltation depends. R1988:2
Matthew 10:39
Findeth his life -- Greek, psuche, soul, being. E335; R248:6

To lay hold on what remains of our earthly life and begin again to live
after the flesh is to lose all claim upon the spiritual life. R936:5
Shall lose it -- He who keeps hold of the life already consecrated to
sacrifice, thereby loses all life. R936:5
Loseth his life -- Surrenders his earthly life. R5476:1
Self-denial, even unto death. R4920:3, 936:2
The life to which we are justified by our faith in Jesus' ransom must be
laid down, even as he laid down his life. (John 10:18) R814:2*
We cannot fully possess the new divine nature until the human nature is
entirely dissolved, dead. R936:5
Shall find it -- Life much more abundant than now possessed. R936:5
Shall gain glory, honor, immortality; the divine nature. R5436:1
Matthew 10:40
Receiveth me -- The Lord is represented by every saint who is a member

of his body. R547:6
Receiveth him -- They represented God as his mouthpieces whom he
authorized to speak in his name. R3764:1
As the Queen is the Empress of India, she rules it through the agents of
her government. Millions of her subjects, who have never seen her, respect
and recognize her authority. R453:4
Matthew 10:41
A prophet's reward -- In the Millennial age. R1469:6

Receiveth a righteous man -- It is toward the brethren of Christ that we
should be particularly careful to exercise hospitality, even though they
be strangers to us, if we recognize in them the Master's likeness, his
spirit. R3432:1
In the name of -- Because he is a disciple. R1655:3, 1469:6
Matthew 10:42
And whosoever -- Including even a worldly man. T93

Including even the poor thief who spoke kindly to the dying Savior. F669
Shall give to drink -- But whosoever would harm one of the "little ones"
who believed in him would have punishment. (Matt. 18:6) R5463:5
These little ones -- Of the little flock. R412:1
These were the "little ones" in malice and pride, and in the world's
estimate. R2063:4
A cup of cold water -- Money for the Lord's work need not be refused if
voluntarily offered by outsiders. F347
Some word or look or act of encouragement. R2073:1*
Not lose his reward -- In the Millennial age. R1469:6, 2612:6, 722:1,
259:1; T93
Rewarded for having ministered to the members of the Lord's body. R412:1
One highly exalted on the spiritual plane will not forget or ignore such
loving loyalty of some earthly friends, and will surely manifest some
special favor to such. R1821:2
Not a reward of glory, honor, immortality, but a good reward, more than
compensating for the kindness they performed. R2701:4
If not in this life, in the life to come. R2847:3, 1655:3
Matthew 11
Matthew 11:1
In their cities -- In "Galilee of the nations," amongst those who made

less religious profession, and amongst whom were few scribes, Pharisees or
Doctors of the Law. R4594:6
Matthew 11:2
In the prison -- Jesus had not made any attempt to deliver his
forerunner from prison, although he continually manifested great power in
the healing of diseases and casting out of devils. R4594:6
Matthew 11:3
Art thou he -- Or are you also merely a forerunner, as I was. R748:2

Doubtless the principal cause of John's doubts was the disappointment of
his Jewish expectations as to the manner of Christ's coming. The same is
true today. R629:5
Perhaps supposing that, when appointed, Jesus would publicly announce
himself with power and authority and bring honor and dignity to all
associated with him. R748:2
Look for another -- For a still greater Messiah, of whom you are but a
forerunner. R4594:6, 2621:1
Matthew 11:4
Go and shew John -- He expected John to be able to discern the time by

the events. R748:2
When God would make known to us any great truth, he does not confine
himself to any one method of proving it, but gives evidence in various
ways. R629:3
These things -- It was by these that the Israelites were to recognize
him as the Messiah, in fulfillment of the predictions of the prophets.
R1314:6
Hear and see -- And now what do we see? The aims and threats of the
discontent are against the wealthy, the Jew once more finding a home in
the land of promise--evidences that Messiah is present again. R748:3-5
Jesus did not say, Go and tell John that we are now living in the
beginning of the 70th week of Daniel's prophecy (Dan. 9:24-27), though
that was true. R629:2
Matthew 11:5
Receive their sight -- It was the fulfillment of Isa. 61:1, the prophecy
of his mission, to which Jesus called John's attention. R629:4 But we
should not forget that Jesus' miracles were performed with a great deal of
secrecy and over a large area of the country. The majority of Jews
probably never saw one of the healed persons. R748:3
In due time the eyes and ears of understanding of all mankind will be
opened. PD64/74
The dead are raised -- Jesus proclaimed liberty to the captives of
death, illustrating the power to liberate by loosing a few from the bands
of death. R629:4
And the poor -- Now, as then, it is the poor, the meek, who receive him
gladly and to whom his special attention is directed. R629:5
Matthew 11:6
Not be offended -- Not allow John's faith to stumble in respect to me.

R4595:1
Matthew 11:7
A reed -- A weak, pliable character, easily shaken. R4595:1, 2622:1

Shaken with the wind -- No! They found John a rugged character, strong,
independent in the advocacy of truth. R4595:1
With every wind of doctrine and fancy. R2622:1
Was it because God spoke to him as the wind makes music through the reeds?
R5031:1
Matthew 11:8
In soft raiment -- Giving evidence of being related to the great, the

wealthy, the noble of that time? No! He was simply clad and lived in
seclusion. R4595:1
Matthew 11:9
A prophet -- Declaring the message of repentance, but also foretelling

future events: that Jesus was the Lamb of God and that the Lord would
baptize people with the holy Spirit and with fire. R4112:3
More than a prophet -- This noble character was God's chosen servant for
heralding the Messiah to Israel. R4594:3
Matthew 11:10
Prepare thy way -- It was John's honor to herald the Lord in the flesh;
it is our distinction to proclaim the parousia of the Son of Man and his
glorious reign. R4113:1
Preparation for Jesus. His message was that the Kingdom of Heaven was
about to be offered to them. R5031:1
Matthew 11:11
Not risen a greater -- The most highly honored of all the prophets.
R1916:4
Therefore he will share among the highest honors that will come to the
ancient worthy class. NS444:3
Great in the sense that he that ruleth his own spirit according to the
principles of the divine Word is greater than he that taketh a city.
(Prov. 16:32) R1916:1
But he was not great in the eyes of man: never a guest at the palace of
Herod, but a prisoner; not an esteemed orator, but "a voice crying in the
wilderness"; not arrayed in purple, but in camel's hair. R1916:1
John the Baptist -- The last of the prophets and the last of the "house
of servants." To him was committed the honorable service of directly
announcing the Savior; he discharged his duty with dignity. R4543:1
The forerunner of Jesus. R4543:5; OV199:1
None of the prophets was his superior. R4958:1; OV199:1
Baptism is valid even if the baptizer is not of the Kingdom class, though
an elder or consecrated person would be preferable. R1541:4; F454, 655
He that is least -- The humblest one. R3868:1
There will be some least and some greater in the Kingdom. R1973:5 In the
kingdom -- The spiritual phase of the Kingdom. R4958:2, 637:6
The election of the Gospel age. NS369:6
The spirit-begotten Church, joint-heirs with Christ in the Kingdom. R2788:2
Of heaven -- God's callings and elections are definite, positive,
separate and distinct, as the various wheels in a great machine are
separate and distinct from each other, while they all cooperate together
in the work for which the machine is constructed. NS444:2
Is greater than he -- John was the last of the faithful under the Jewish
John tells us that his joy and privilege was not to be of the Bride, but
to be a friend of the Bridegroom and to introduce him. R219:1; HG132:2
Reckoned as members of the house of sons, while the prophets belong to the
preceding house of servants. R4958:2, 2562:3, 1872:3, 435:3; E28
Does not imply that John was disappointed. His cup of blessing being full,
and never having been begotten of the holy Spirit, he will not be able to
appreciate blessings higher than his own. R5030:6
The operation of God's spirit on the prophets was so different than on the
Church that the humblest Christian may know more of God's plan than the
greatest prophet. R435:3
God had promised him earthly perfection while he had promised the bride of
Christ heavenly perfection. John will come forth as a perfect human being,
the reward of his faithfulness. R5030:5, 3868:1; NS784:3
The least one in the heavenly phase shall be greater than the greatest in
the visible, earthly phase of the Kingdom. R637:6*; HG731:6; NS663:2
Only the blood-justified could be invited to the High Calling, and John
died before the sacrifice was completed. D625; F112
"God having provided some better thing for us." (Heb. 11:40) R4595:4,
2035:2
Because from the time of Christ, but not previously, the prize of
joint-heirship with the Lord is open to his followers. T108; R2279:3;
NS802:5
As Christ was to have the pre-eminence in the Kingdom it was necessary
that he should be the first member of it. F86
Matthew 11:12
From the days of -- The Kingdom of Heaven began to have an existence

when Jesus was anointed to be the King, at the time of his baptism by
John. R703:1*
Kingdom of heaven -- The Church, the embryo Kingdom. A284; R1687:6,
1598:3, 1358:6, 1351:6; Q797:4, 423:1; PD59/70; HG164:6
Suffereth violence -- Violence crucified our king, stoned Stephen,
beheaded Paul, crucified Peter, roasted others by fire, tossing them upon
piercing forks. R702:6*
As our Lord suffereth violence from the Prince of this world, so will his
followers. OV343:2
As with the Master, so with his followers, the violence comes more from
the worldly-spirited ones in the nominal church than from the open
rejectors of God. R1372:3
As a part of the preparation for the Kingdom glories. PD59/70
For righteousness' sake. OV194:4, 343:2; R5573:6
Teaching us lessons of faith, fortitude, courage, endurance, meekness,
patience, sympathy and loving-kindness. R2130:2*
Trodden under foot during the Gentile times. (Luke 21:24) R1979:2
Despised and rejected of men, insignificant and ignored in the sight of
men. Historians saw it not, only writing of human organizations, called
"Christ's kingdoms," but not the true one. R2128:1
The submission to the violence of dominant evil has not been for lack of
power by our Lord, but because it is not yet the "due time." D621
The Kingdom, when set up, cannot suffer, but must reign triumphantly.
R702:5*
The violent take it -- The Ishmael and Esau classes, and Satan and his
servants. D620; R2777:5; Q797:4
They caused the Lord's death and the scattering of the Church, etc. Q423:1
And have despitefully used the Head and the body members. R2935:2
Similar characters and conditions today, in the tares. R2778:3
They have outwardly been posing as the true Church of Christ, and have
usurped the place of the true by force. OV345:6,7
The violent prince of this world lays them all low in death, but divine
power will bring them forth to victory. R703:1*
By force -- The violent have dominated it by force for centuries. PD59/70
With overwhelming force of numbers and wealth, they subdue the little
handful of saints, trample and crush their influence, and hinder the
progress and spread of the heavenly Kingdom. R702:6*
Matthew 11:13
The prophets and the law -- But, though showing forth truth and
foretelling the coming Kingdom, they could never be clearly understood
until the gospel unraveled their mysteries. R702:3*
Until John -- John was the last of the prophets. R5030:6, 4958:1
Matthew 11:14
And if -- Intimating that John did not do all that is to be done by

Elijah, and hence that a greater Elijah is to be expected. R2838:6, 1687:6
Ye will receive it -- By believing his message. B253
To as many of the Jews as were "Israelites indeed." OV323:1
But Israel did not receive John the Baptist as Elias, nor did they receive
the Messiah. Therefore, again his presence must be heralded by another,
who shall come in the spirit and power of Elias. R1379:2
John's work as Elijah did not fail because of his own lack of faith, but
because of the Jews' unreadiness of heart to be influenced by him. R2838:6
To those who recognized his message and obeyed it and became the Lord's
disciples, John fulfilled the work of Elijah. R3293:1
Likewise today we announce as at hand the reign of the Christ glorified,
and point out the foretold antitypical Elijah to those "who can receive
it." B254
This is Elias -- John the Baptist did a reformatory work which was in
full accord with the prophecy regarding Elijah. R5030:6
The forerunner of Messiah. B253
Conditionally; in the same limited, shadowy sense in which the Kingdom was
offered to the children of Israel after the flesh. HG68:5
Thus, whatever we find in either the life of Elijah or John which fits
well the experience of the Church or her future course, we are justified
in recognizing as typical. R968:4
In every particular there was some measure of likeness between John and
the antitypical Elijah. OV323:1
His relationship to the future Elijah, the greater Elijah, was very
similar to the relationship of our Lord Jesus to the greater Christ.
OV322:2
John the Baptist stood for, or represented, a multitudinous Elijah, as
Jesus stood for, or represented, a multitudinous Christ. R557:1
As John did an Elijah work to Israel, so the Church does the predicted
Elijah work to the world, announcing the Lord's second advent. B253;
OV322:3
Matthew 11:15
Hath ears to hear -- Jesus and the Apostles attempted, not to teach
everybody, but merely those who hungered and thirsted after righteousness.
R5244:1; B16; SM51:2, 52:T, 343:3
Sometimes this hearing ear comes through sorrow and tribulation. NS823:5
He must expect meekly to cast away many preconceived opinions as fast as
he comes to see their lack of harmony with God's Word. B16
Not bandying the gospel in the streets, giving a reason for our hope to to
him that asketh, but neither the Bible nor sound judgment dictates
quarreling for truth's sake. R1468:4
Let him hear -- "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith
unto the churches." (Rev. 2:7) B16
God is not trying to attract the world now; they are blind and deaf.
SM343:3
These will have a special blessing, while those who do not give ear will
have their portion with the hypocrites. NS435:3,5
Matthew 11:16
This generation -- Greek, genea, meaning people living

contemporaneously, as in "This generation shall not pass." D603
Matthew 11:18
He hath a devil -- Because John, as a prophet, was abstemious to the

extreme. R5031:4
Matthew 11:19
And they say -- Similarly we may be charged with pride and ambition for
making use of business methods to promulgate the "good tidings." R4824:1
A man gluttonous -- There is nothing that either God or his people can
do that the Adversary, and those who have his spirit, cannot use as an
occasion for faultfinding. R4824:1
Because Jesus presented himself less peculiarly than John. R5031:4
But wisdom -- The divine wisdom, divine truth. R1737:1
Expressed in the Scriptures and in the laws of nature. R2060:2
Neither slander, nor opposition from our enemies, shall swerve us from the
path which we believe is marked out for us by the Lord. R4824:5
Is justified -- Proved right, accepted. R1737:1 Of her children -- They
show their parentage, reflect their mother's likeness. The children of the
light should walk in the light in reference to health, food, cleanliness
and clothing, as well as spiritual matters. R20650:2
Matthew 11:20
To upbraid -- Not in the form of a tirade of scolding and abuse, but a

simple statement of the facts. R2267:1
They repented not -- The majority rejected his Messiahship. R4599:1
Not for rejecting the favor of the Kingdom, but for the sinful condition
which hindered their acceptance of it. They were so sinful, so alienated
from God, that very evidently they would be worthy of serious punishment.
R2267:1
Because the "god of this world hath blinded the minds of them that believe
not." (2 Cor. 4:4) R2267:5
Matthew 11:21
Woe unto thee -- You have had more knowledge and opportunity, and you
have a responsibility therefore; it means more disadvantage. CR501:4;
R2613:1
Every sin and evil propensity cultivated now will require punishment and
discipline in the age to come. R2613:2
His rejection of them incidentally permitted the sending of the gracious
call to the Kingdom honors to believers among the Gentiles. R2623:3
In Tyre and Sidon -- Notoriously unholy, licentious, unclean cities.
R2623:3
Would have repented -- Yet the worldly-wise and prudent tell us that
these poor sinners passed into eternal torment without a chance. R2624:4
Matthew 11:22
More tolerable -- Because their sin had been against less light and
privilege. R5363:6, 5083:5, 4599:4
The greater the light rejected, the more will be the stripes received.
R569:6, 412:1
God takes a different standpoint from the majority of people. He does not
merely say, "Is this moral or immoral?" Rather, "What is the heart
attitude?" R2623:3
For Tyre and Sidon -- Two flourishing Gentile cities, very full of
wickedness and immorality, so that their names were synonymous for that
which was unholy, licentious, unclean. R2623:3
With their gross immoralities but better condition of heart. R2623:3
Tyre and Sidon had suffered a terrible overthrow in the midst of carnage,
pestilence and blood. R1618:5
These heathen cities would have repented with far less preaching. R5075:1
Day of judgment -- The thousand years of his Messianic reign. R5179:6
Than for you -- With superior morality, but an evil condition of heart.
R2623:6
Those who heard Jesus, unmoved, had hardened their hearts and would be
correspondingly disadvantaged in the judgment day. R5363:5
Matthew 11:23
Thou Capernaum -- Who thought themselves quite respectable, church-going

people. HG236:2, 647:6
Capernaum was favored above all other cities of Palestine because there
our Lord did most of his miracles and preaching. R5075:1
Exalted unto heaven -- Highly lifted up in privileges of knowledge,
opportunity and divine favor and blessing. R5075:1, 4599:2, 4557:1,
3726:2, 2623:2, 2600:4
Highly exalted by having Christ as a resident. E376; PD62/73
Brought down to hell -- Greek: hades, the grave, oblivion; because they
received not the message. R5075:2, 4557:1, 4599:2; E375
Even the site where Capernaum stood is a matter of dispute. R2600:4, 3726:3
Fulfilled in the trouble which came upon the Jews and which destroyed
their nationality. R2623:3
Not only the Sodomites, but the city in which they lived, is spoken of as
going down to hell, and there are other cities there. HG556:2; R734:5*
Been done in Sodom -- The Sodomites were not so great sinners as were
the Jews who had more knowledge. A110; OV227:T
Whose wickedness was so great that it brought upon her a fierce
destruction from the Lord. R2623:6
It was for want of light that these people were destroyed. R659:3*, 447:3*
They did not, therefore, have a full opportunity. A110; R545:5; OV227:1;
HG345:4
Matthew 11:24
More tolerable -- Less severe, less of an ordeal. OV43:1

That time will be tolerable for all in proportion as their sins had been
sins of ignorance. HG336:3
The punishment of that age will be in proportion to past guilt. R2613:1,
722:3
There will be rewards and "stripes" according to the deeds of the present
life, as well as according to their conduct under that trial. R2611:5
It will be a tolerable time for Capernaum, and yet more tolerable for
Sodom. OV227:1; A110; R5179:6, 2267:4; HG149:6, 345:4; NS704:1
Capernaum had sinned against greater light. OV227:1; R5083:5, 4599:2;
PD62/73
Sodom and Gomorrah will rise up as superior to some of the Jews. NS704:1
The people of Capernaum were evidently harder-hearted than the people of
Sodom and, from the Lord's standpoint, were more blameworthy. R4599:2
Inasmuch as they had superior advantages to others which they neglected,
they would be correspondingly less benefited by the Millennial blessings
and mercies of God. NS311:4
Their rejection of him much more resembled the condition of wicked
rebellion against God that would lead to the second death than did the
conduct of the Sodomites. R2267:4
Land of Sodom -- The eternal fate of the Sodomites is not sealed: "Sodom
and her daughters shall return to their former estate." (Ezek. 16:55)
R5179:6
Our Lord guarantees them a full opportunity. OV227:1
Showing conclusively that all that are in their graves shall hear the
voice of the Son of Man and come forth--to be judged and tried. R2267:5
The death of the Sodomites, therefore, was merely the Adamic death
hastened; not the Second Death. OV43:2
Day of judgment -- The 1000 year day of Messiah's reign in which
judgment, or trial, will be granted to the world. PD62/73; R5179:6,
4599:1, 2624:1, 2267:4
Showing that no judgment had as yet been reached in any of these cases.
R2624:1
Many of the heathen, who have enjoyed little or nothing of God's grace,
will be in a more favorable condition than some neglectful ones who are
now richly favored. R4599:4
Than for thee -- Because they will then receive and be blessed by the
light which you have rejected. A110
Matthew 11:25
And said -- Offered audible prayer in the presence of fellow-believers.

R2251:6
I thank thee Lord -- He appreciated the Father's wisdom in not allowing
any but those of proper heart condition to see and clearly understand the
present call of the Church. R4599:2
We, with the Master, may be glad of the wisdom displayed in the divine
arrangement of hiding certain features of the plan of the ages from all
except the "very elect." R4599:2
Had those rich and great seen fully the true situation it would have
increased their responsibility. R5075:5, 4599:2
It is utterly impossible to harmonize such a statement with the common,
but unscriptural, view that they had gone or were going to a place of
eternal torment. R2267:6
Hid these things -- This gracious plan which provides such wonderful
future opportunities for the poor Sodomites. R2624:4, 236:4*
For the world to have known in advance would doubtless have been
injurious. R4644:5, 4444:6
It would not have been wise for him to have revealed all the secrets of
his plan because the Adversary and his associates would have done all in
their power to upset his plans. CR90:4
The unconsecrated mind cannot understand the Mystery of God. SM12:2
The mass of mankind are blind to the spiritual things, the calling and
election of the Church. R4599:1
From the wise -- The worldly-wise, by permitting contempt and ridicule
to be attached thereto. B29
Particularly the wise residents of Capernaum and Bethsaida. R2267:5
The Pharisees were too self-satisfied, the scribes too learned, and the
Doctors of the Law too proud and pretentious, because they were under the
influence of mammon. CR10:2; NS398:2
Whom the God of this world hath blinded with the brilliancy of their own
earthly learning and with their love of honor of men. R1418:3
"The wisdom of their wise men shall perish and the understanding of their
prudent men shall be hid." (Isa. 29:14) R589:3
Who regard it as a fancy, a fairy story, which none but the simple-minded
and children would take seriously. R3585:2 Passing by some of the most
learned, the Lord is using channels, agencies and messengers that are not
acceptable to many. R5258:4
And prudent -- Prudent according to the world's standards--preferring
numbers, popularity and honor among men and the financial emoluments of
these rather than the truth. R2639:5
Too prudent. R972:4
The keen and the shrewd, the learned and the great. R3585:2
Those who do not believe in the doctrine of restitution are the ones who
think it imprudent to teach it. R236:4*
Revealed them -- Not working some miracle upon the mind to open their
understanding; rather, he used natural means, reasoned with them until
they were able to grasp the divine purpose. R3910:5
Unto babes -- So far as human craft and policy are concerned; the
honest-hearted, the unsophisticated, the meek and poor in spirit.
R2267:6,5; SM13:2
In simplicity and meekness. R589:3
Having less to lose of an earthly kind. CR10:2; NS398:3
"Unlearned and ignorant men." (Acts 4:13) R5258:4
The Lord's "little ones"--meek, humble, teachable. HG518:3
Those who are of humble mind, ready to be taught of the Lord, instead of
wishing to teach the Lord. R2624:6
Those who make no boast of wisdom according to the course of the world.
R2492:6
The babes in worldly wisdom have more advantage in every way as respects
faith and obedience in this Gospel age. NS727:6
It is not possible to deceive the child--the faithful, who ignore all
prejudice, pride and ambition, and simply follow the divine word, testing
all things by it. R957:5
While the present Gospel message is for the highest type of men, it
appeals specially to the middle class of these--the humble but
intelligent, rather than the rich or great. R2692:4
From the worldly standpoint, foolish babes to place so much reliance upon
the things unseen as yet and to ignore the prospects held out by mammon in
the present life. CR10:2
Strong characters may be developed, and high ideals attained in the heart
and in deed, amongst the lowly and obscure. R3952:3
Who will babble forth the truth unceremoniously. R942:2, 236:4*
Matthew 11:26
Good in thy sight -- "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are
my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts."
(Isa. 55:9) CR90:5
There is a wisdom in God's course in this matter which is not apparent on
the surface. R5075:4
Jesus appreciated the Father's wisdom in this matter. R4599:2
It has pleased the Father to let "the wise be taken in their own
craftiness." (1 Cor. 3:19) R2624:6
God was (is) hiding from mankind truths which are necessary for their
salvation; hiding these for good, sufficient, wise and loving
reasons--reasons which our Lord understood and also approved. NS555:5
If the hiding of divine counsel from mankind meant eternal torture for the
blinded ones, Jesus could not have thanked the Father for that. R4644:5
Matthew 11:27
All things -- To him the Father has given all power in earth and heaven.
(Matt. 28:19) "He is Lord of all"--next to the Father, for "the head of
Christ is God." (1 Cor. 11:3) R296:3
No man knoweth -- Recognizeth. R2268:1
The disciples knew him as a man, but they did not understand the secret of
his wonderful being--his prehuman glory. R1059:5
Neither knoweth -- To know the Father and the Son in the intimate sense
as one knows the mind, the heart, of an intimate friend. R2625:1
Save the Son -- Whose prehuman fellowship with the Father, lasting for
centuries, was impressed with sufficient clearness upon our Lord, after he
was made flesh, to enable him to say "What he hath seen and heard, that he
testifies." (John 3:32) E91
Son will reveal him -- All we can know is what is revealed. R106:1*
The Great Teacher reveals the Father to all who are pupils in his school.
R4599:5, 5075:5
If it pleased the Lord to make known to us some things of his glorious
purposes, it would be disrespectful on our part not to feel a deep
interest in them and seek to know more. NS683:4
Matthew 11:28
Come unto me -- Not unto some sect. C186; HG694:2

This is an appeal to reason. R5422:3
This call is to the poor, the broken-hearted, the heavy-laden, the
unsatisfied. R5075:6
The Call to follow Christ. OV429:3
A call or invitation to exercise faith in the Lord, to come out on his
side, to accept his deliverance from the yoke of sin and death. NS379:6
"No man can come unto the Father but by me." (John 14:6) R469:1*
Those invited to be the Lord's followers are not smitten with symbolic
arrow and sword, as are his enemies. SM53:1
All ye that labor -- The Lord does not invite the listless and idle.
R1764:3
May have a measure of application to farm labor, etc., but its special
significance is to labor of the heart. HG746:5
The Bible addresses itself, primarily, not to the ambitious and hopeful,
but to the laboring and heavy-laden and despairing. CR15:4; NS488:1
The poor, the broken-hearted. R5075:6
The world in general is laboring for the things of the present life, and
has almost no faith in respect to the things of the world to come. CR16:2
Not all the poor--but the poor in purse, in influence, in education, in
character, with all their disadvantages, have the great advantage that
their condition is favorable to humility. HG746:4
Trying to do an impossible thing as members of a fallen race--keep the
perfect Law of God. R315:2
There are two classes of laborers: the world, laboring for things of the
present life; and the followers of the Lord who "labor not for the meat
that perisheth" (John 6:27) but for that which endureth unto life eternal.
CR16:2; NS482:5
You who are burdened in the Lord's service. R245:4
And are heavy laden -- Who feel the yoke of the Law Covenant. R1728:5;
R5885:3,6, 2625:2, 1540:2
Either from the yoke of the Law, as the believing Jews, or from the yoke
of Satan, as the believing Gentiles. R2625:3
The only direct invitations given by our Savior were to the earth-weary,
toil-burdened and desolate hearts. R108:2*
Despised and grief-stricken. CR15:5
Who feel the burden of sin, imperfection and death. R2625:2, 5886:2, 5737:3
With an appreciation of sin and degradation. HG746:6
Unsatisfied. R5075:6
Weary and almost discouraged with their failure. R1733:5, 975:2
Not only with our own imperfections, but the weaknesses and frailties of
our friends and neighbors all have their influence upon us. NS380:3
It is when earthly hopes become blighted that one gets the ear to hear the
Lord's message. CR15:5; NS488:2
The Jews were under the yoke of the nation of Rome, but the yoke here
referred to is a religious yoke, the yoke of the Law. R5885:2
There is a class today in Christendom, not under the Jewish Law, but
nevertheless realizing laws, rules and standards of divine justice, and
desiring to conform their lives thereto. NS381:2
Will give you rest -- Justification. R5105:5, 4579:6, 2625:2; Q66:1
The blessing of justification by faith is merely to fit and prepare us to
take the yoke and become a co-laborer with the Lord in the Father's
service. R2625:5
There is no rest for the weary at heart except in union with Christ.
PD14/23; SM53:1
There is no rest of heart in the restless striving of selfishness and sin;
yet these experiences sometimes lead the weary to the great Sin-Bearer.
R4932:4
Mourning and sorrow are necessary before we can appreciate the comfort
which God has provided. R5003:6
Only those who feel the need of rest can appreciate the invitation. R108:2*
The Lord's people have a peace and rest of mind through knowledge of God's
plan and character. R5403:2
I have the will and the way to help you to come to the Father. R5422:3
In the full assurance that he has "paid it all" for both Jew and
Gentile--for all. R975:2
This rest is not of general temporal prosperity and freedom from care,
toil and all restraint. R1961:5
A new set of laborers in the world, the followers of Jesus, with new
hopes, ambitions, peace, joy, which far transcend any that they had
previously had. CR16:2
The blessed rest of freedom from the galling yoke of the oppressor. R902:2
It will mean to us the wiping away of our tears, the cancellation of a
large degree of our troubles. NS693:6
The present rest of faith will by and by be superseded by the actual rest
of the Kingdom. HG747:1
For your souls, now; and thus you will be prepared to enter into the
heavenly rest as "joint heirs" with Christ in his Heavenly Kingdom. R4599:6
Even though he himself was without a place to lay his own head. (Matt.
8:20) R1063:2*
Of all the books of the world, the Bible offers cheer and comfort to
hopeless classes. CR15:4
This will be fulfilled in an especial sense during the Millennial Age. B40
Matthew 11:29
Take my yoke -- A yoke signifies servitude. R5885:2, 4599:5, 2625:2,

1276:2*
Not any sectarian yoke. C187; R902:5; NS381:4
The figure being that of an ox yoked to a cart with a load. NS380:4
Jesus was inviting as many of the Jews as were in the proper attitude of
heart to join with him. R5886:1
Bind yourself, time, influence, means, opportunities, all, to the Lord's
service. This is an invitation, not a command. R2625:5,6, 2268:4
Of obedience to the divine will. R4599:6
He invites us to come and make a full consecration of ourselves to him and
his service. R2625:6
All in the world are under yokes of some kind--political yokes, social
yokes, financial or business yokes, yokes of sin, of selfishness, of
pride, etc. R1961:2
The new yoke would not be upon the old creature. We not only fulfill the
requirements of the law, but we do more. But it is the new creature that
does this. R5885:5 It is one thing to fight against sin and quite another
thing to join with the Lord as co-laborers, and thus to have our puny
powers supplemented by his grace and strength. NS381:1
A yoke is generally arranged for two, and our Lord speaks of it as his
yoke, by which we are to understand that he is also a servant. R2625:3
The Lord was burdened, not with his own weaknesses, but with the burden of
the contradiction of sinners against himself and with the burdens of his
disciples. NS380:3
The Lord imposes burdens and yokes upon those now being called, whereas he
intends to completely break the yokes and do away with all burdens during
the Millennial age. NS379:6
Upon you -- Instead of the yoke of the Law covenant or the yoke of
Satan, with which you have previously been bound. R2625:3, 5885:2
And learn of me -- I will be your partner, will take the other side of
the yoke with you. R2625:3
Become learners, disciples, pupils in the school of Christ. R5737:3
How to bear the yoke. R955:5*
Not only in an intellectual way, but also through the medium of the heart.
R1789:2
Learn the good lessons, whereby he prepares them for future glories,
honors, immortality. CR16:3
Do not attempt to guide yourself. R1961:3
From him we learn the way; in company with him we catch his blessed
spirit; we learn of that meekness which despises no humiliation. R1276:5*
Not until we have taken the Lord into our daily life as our personal
companion, confidential friend, counselor, comforter and guide, as well as
Redeemer and Lord, can we fully learn those lessons which give joy. R1789:2
I am meek -- The secret of rest is in a meek and quiet spirit. R1962:1
This humility of mind and heart was, in many respects, the secret of his
success. R5186:2
Teachable. Even in his perfection, these were things to be learned. R5370:2
Only those who have meekness and lowliness of heart are prepared to humble
themselves, acknowledge their own unworthiness and need of help, and
accept the Lord's proffered assistance and take his yoke. NS382:6
The Lord with unerring precision has always chosen the meek for every
great work--Moses, the prophets, the ancient worthies, the Lord Jesus, the
twelve apostles--and so also the whole Gospel Church. R1921:1
Lowly in heart -- Because he was meek and lowly in heart, Jesus could
ignore his own will, cease to do it, and take upon him the yoke of the
Father's will. R955:6*
The quiet spirit will humbly submit to the easy yoke of the divine will
and cease the strife to gratify the perverted human will. R902:2
Rest unto your souls -- Typified by the seventh day of rest of the Jews.
"We which have believed do enter into rest." (Heb. 4:3) R2534:4
Rest from the vain ambitions and fruitless works and plans which other
taskmasters would force upon us. R1276:6*
Rest in him, our true Yoke-Fellow. R5886:2
The second rest, the "second blessing," the growing and abiding peace and
joy of the holy Spirit. R2625:4
And not merely rest to the flesh--mind-rest, nor merely bodily rest. He
who believes fully, rests fully; he who believes only partially, rests but
partially. R2534:3, 2268:1
Soul satisfaction: the peace of God which passeth all understanding will
rule in our hearts. R2625:4
Matthew 11:30
For my yoke -- The Master's yoke was his hearty, glad submission to the
Heavenly Father's will. NS380:6
We have bound ourselves unto the Lord with a covenant of faithfulness unto
sacrifice, sacrifice unto death. NS381:6
As compared with the yoke of politics, society, business, sin, selfishness
or pride. R1961:2
Is easy -- Comfortable and enjoyable, an elastic yoke, meeting varied
conditions. R5886:4
To the world, consecration looks like a terrible yoke, but to the true
child of God it seems a most reasonable service. R2625:5
Easy for those whom it fits. R2268:4, 5886:4
Because of his love to us and our love to him. R1893:4
Because we love righteousness and hate iniquity, and because we love the
Lord and the Heavenly Father. NS382:5
Because our yoke is appreciated and because the Lord is with us in the
yoke. Our burdens are his burdens, our trials his trials, and our
interests his interests. R2625:6
When we let it rest naturally upon us. R902:2
In the sense that it is possible to bear and that it is not galling.
R5886:2
Because all things work together for good--the heavier the burden, the
greater the blessing and reward. R2625:5
A yoke that does not fit an animal will chafe him and cause restlessness;
whereas a yoke that is properly fitted will be comfortable and make the
load more easily drawn. R5886:4, 2268:4
That which makes the yoke set lightly upon us is the fixedness of purpose
which does not chafe under it nor try to get away from it. R1276:3*
Few would say the Apostle Paul's was an easy yoke, but evidently he
thought so, counting it a privilege to endure hardness as a good soldier
of Christ. R1961:5
However hard or difficult it may seem to others, the Lord's supplied grace
enables those who are his to triumph in all things. NS170:6
We may well count all our losses, all our crosses, our burdens, as light
afflictions, because of the excellency of the knowledge of divine favors
and blessings which we have received through Christ Jesus our Lord. R2268:4
My burden is light -- Much lighter than the yoke and burden of sin.
R4599:6
The secret of the light load lay in the easy yoke. NS380:5
No one is required to do more than he is able to perform. R5886:5
The Lord himself is the great burden-bearer of those who are yoked with
him. He will not suffer them to be burdened with more than is for their
good. R2625:6, 5886:4
As compared with the yoke of sin and the burden of death. Nevertheless,
they have some burdens which decrease as they become acquainted with their
heavenly Father. NS223:2
His will is not burdensome, but a delight to us. R245:4
Matthew 12
Matthew 12:1
Jesus went -- Probably on the way to the synagogue. R3316:6

Through the corn -- The wheat. R3754:1
To pluck the ears -- The Pharisees claimed that rubbing the grain in the
hands and blowing away the chaff constituted winnowing and threshing, thus
violating the Sabbath. R3316:3, 4600:4, 3754:2, 2268:1
Some today who would not ride a street car on the Sabbath would think
nothing of allowing their minds to dwell on worldly or evil subjects. This
is hypocrisy. R3754:2
And to eat -- The Pharisees had a rule that no food should be eaten
until after worship in the synagogue. R3316:6
Matthew 12:2
The Pharisees -- Pharisaism had become formalism in many respects.

R2268:6
There is considerable similarity between the scribes and Pharisees of our
Lord's day and so-called orthodox Christians of our day. In some
denominations particularly, there is evidenced the same spirit of
despising others outside their favored cult. R3315:3
They said -- Those who today make an attack upon the truth only cause
its beauties and harmonies to be the more clearly discerned by those whose
eyes of understanding are opened. R3316:2
Is not lawful -- Those who have little of the truth are sometimes great
sticklers for formalities. R2268:2
Upon the Sabbath -- The Great Teacher, as a Jew, was as much under the
obligation of every feature of the Law Covenant as any other Jew. We may
be sure he violated no feature of it. R4600:2, 2268:6
Christians are free to follow the spirit of the law rather than its
letter. This is true of the entire Ten Commandments, as well as of the
fourth. R4599:6
Spiritual Israel keeps Sabbath every day: resting in the finished work of
Christ, resting from our own works, from all endeavor to justify ourselves
through the law. R3753:4, 2269:5
Typical. The true Christian enjoys the antitype. The seventh day
represents a rest of a higher character, a rest of faith instead of a
physical rest. R4600:1, 2269:4
As seven is a type of perfection or completeness, so the seventh day rest
was a type of the complete or perfect rest which we have in Christ. R2269:4
We can rest the most when we work the hardest. Q608:1
Let our homes be the most quiet of all on the appointed day of rest, let
no sound of labor or worldly pleasure be heard, but let our joy of hope,
love and faith abound. R3753:6
The early Church began to meet on the first day of the week because it was
on that day that Christ arose from the dead, and on that day were all of
his post-resurrection appearances. No wonder it became known to them as
the Lord's day. R4600:2
It wouldn't surprise me if mankind kept the seventh day during the
Millennial age. Q608:1
Matthew 12:4
And did eat -- The emergencies of the case justified the deviation from
the rule. It was a case of necessity, to preserve life. R3316:3, 3754:2,
2268:3
The shewbread -- Type of the truth. T22, 115
Matthew 12:5
In the temple -- Proving that labor done sacrificially for the

assistance of others, as well as for their own necessities, could be no
violation of the fourth commandment. R2268:3
And are blameless -- The Law specifically provided for the labor which
they would perform, and hence such labor could not be considered a
profanation of the Sabbath. R3316:3
Matthew 12:6
Greater than the temple -- These disciples were doing still more
consecrated work than the priests and the Levites in the temple because
he, the representative of the Father, was greater than the temple. R3316:3
Matthew 12:7
If ye had known -- Equivalent to saying that they did not know its
meaning. R539:1*
Mercy and not sacrifice -- God is desirous of seeing in his creatures
the quality of mercy toward one another, rather than merely the
sacrificing of their comforts. R4600:4
It was the loving kindness of Jesus that disturbed their pharisaical
natures and called forth their opposition. R539:1*
Consequently any deeds of mercy, sympathy, pity done on the Sabbath are
more pleasing in God's sight than sacrifices performed in the typical
temple. R2268:3
This mercy would have hindered them from condemning the disciples.
Similarly today, the great failing of many critics and fault-finders is
their lack of mercy, of love. R3754:4
Not have condemned -- The fault-finding disposition that is ready to
accuse and condemn everybody indicates a wrong condition of heart. R3316:4
Matthew 12:8
Is Lord even of -- Is the proper teacher to set forth the real

significance of. R3754:4, 3316:4
The sabbath day -- Type of the Seventh Thousand Year day. B40
Matthew 12:9
Into the synagogue -- Where they wished to find ground for an accusation
against the Lord before the congregation. R3316:6
Matthew 12:11
Shall have one sheep -- He knew their tender spots of selfishness.

R2269:1
Fall into a pit -- The poor cripple had been trapped into sin and
sickness by the Adversary. R2269:1
On the sabbath -- Although labor was prohibited under the Law, it was to
bring rest, comfort, refreshment and blessing, and not to bring hunger,
inconvenience and distress to either man or beast. R2268:3
Lift it out -- Because of their love of gain, to avoid its death and,
hence, a financial loss. R2268:5
Even though it might require considerable exercise for several persons.
How foolish, then, to find fault with our Lord who, by one word, could
rebuke the disease. R3317:1
Matthew 12:12
Than a sheep -- This is something the world does not seem to have
learned. R3754:5
On the sabbath days -- Jesus did many of his miracles on the Sabbath as
a prophetic picture of the antitypical Sabbath day being the Millennium.
R4600:5
Matthew 12:13
Was restored whole -- Manifesting the predominance of love above any law
along the lines of the prophecy he had just quoted, that mercy was higher
in God's estimation than sacrifice. R3754:5
Demonstrating that he had the divine favor, and that his teaching on the
subject had this evidence of its truthfulness. R4600:4
Matthew 12:14
Then the Pharisees -- Manifesting a rabid spirit of sectarianism and

self-importance, imitated by some in our day who lack the spirit of the
truth. R3754:5
Council against him -- Less popular in Galilee than in Judea anyway,
they felt that their influence before the people had been lessened by
their conflict with the Lord. R3754:4
Might destroy him -- The Lord's superior teachings excited the Pharisees
to envy, malice, hatred and the very spirit of murder. R4600:5
They felt fully justified in murdering anyone whose words and conduct so
overmatched them as to hinder their influence from spreading. R3754:6
Matthew 12:15
He withdrew -- Setting the example to be on the lookout for divine

deliverance and the opening of a way of escape from things too difficult
to endure. F508; R1735:1
Matthew 12:19
In the streets -- Not bandying the gospel in the streets, giving a

reason for our hope to him that asketh. Neither the Bible nor sound
judgment dictates quarreling for the truth's sake. R1468:4
Matthew 12:20
A bruised reed -- A Christian not wholly consecrated. F684

A humble, contrite, faithful heart. God takes cognizance of it and confers
his blessing. R1945:5
Shall he not break -- God kindly condescends to human ignorance and
weakness. R1675:1
If there be even a slight disposition to penitence, he fosters and
cherishes it. R1614:5
And smoking flax -- Smouldering faith. F684
Shall he not quench -- If there is even a smouldering spark of love
toward God, he will fan the spark, if perchance it might become a blaze.
R1772:5, 2073:1*
Send forth judgment -- Justice, righteousness, truth. D18
When Christ shall assume his kingly office at his second advent. NS640:5
Unto victory -- Thus making Jehovah's footstool glorious. E47
Life and immortality were brought to light by Jesus' own successful
probation. HG40:3
When all evil and all willful evil-doers shall have been cut off. His
victory will consist in the establishment of righteousness and peace, no
matter how many or how few fall in the conflict. R1443:5
Matthew 12:23
The son of David -- "The Lord shall give him the throne of his father
David." (Luke 1:32) C257
The long-promised king of David's line, the Messiah. E130, 133; C257;
PD65/77; SM210:2
Matthew 12:24
Pharisees -- As we see how blindly the scribes and Pharisees hated

Jesus, and said all manner of evil against him, we see that really they
were on Satan's side. R4608:3
But by Beelzebub -- Satan: the first and, for a long time, the only
enemy of the divine government. R2171:5
Refuted by Jesus' refusal to accept the testimony of any demon. R3310:4
The deluded Pharisees had even charged the Master with being Satan
himself. (Matt. 10:25) R4608:5
Such a manifestation of hatred, malice and opposition to light came not
through the "fall" and cannot be forgiven as such. R723:5
The prince -- The chief, doubtless because of being by nature a superior
order of being. R2171:5, 4608:5
Of the devils -- Of the angels which fell at the time of the flood.
R2171:5
His influence or spirit is exercised in his servants much the same way
that the spirit of God works in his children. R370:6
Matthew 12:25
Said unto them -- The Master took the time to philosophize with them on
this subject. R4608:5
"When he was reviled, he reviled not again." (1 Pet. 2:23) R4802:6
Kingdom divided -- Satan's struggles to retain control of mankind will
be specially desperate at its close--before he is "bound" for the thousand
years. R2189:2
Against itself -- In its continued subdivision into sects the Protestant
church has had its strength so decimated that, as the Master long ago
predicted, it is doomed to fall. R1294:6*
Matthew 12:26
And if Satan -- Whose very existence is now denied by many. F609

Spirit demonstrations are made by spirits who hate God and have no
fellowship with that which is good. They universally reject the Bible as
the Word of God, denouncing it as a fable and unworthy of belief. HG327:3*
Cast out Satan -- By aiding the miraculous cure of the sick. F641
We advocate no general rejection of healings and miracles as being
Satanic, but a careful study of every person or system seeking to
establish itself by miracles. F638
As he is now doing through "Christian Science." R2189:1,2, 3784:3
Now, as Satan's kingdom is about to be overthrown, it is his effort to
support it with many wonderful works. R5802:1, 3275:1, 1644:4
Satan's power of death makes quite possible his relief from sickness
through agencies of his choice for the purpose of enforcing their false
doctrines. R1685:6, 1644:3
The demons must sham to be "angels of light," teachers of advanced truths
and good physicians, both of souls and bodies, in order to re-ensnare
those who are feeling after God. R2189:2
He has long palmed himself off as a teacher; but Satan in the role of
faith-healer is a novelty belonging chiefly to our day, though undoubtedly
he has had to do with the relic-miracles of Papacy for centuries. R3120:2
His kingdom stand -- When Satan would work against his own associates,
it would imply the speedy fall of his empire. R3784:2, 4608:5
The necessity for his playing reformer and good physician today is an
evidence that his fall is near. F641
Matthew 12:27
Beelzebub -- Satan, because created on a higher plane, is styled the

Prince of demons in his relationship to the fallen angels. R4608:5, 1686:1
Do your children -- He pointed out that demons had been cast out by some
whom they acknowledged and honored. R4608:5
Matthew 12:28
The spirit of God -- Influence or power of God. R372:5

Which I do not claim as my own power. E271
If he, by God's power, cast out demons, it was an evidence that God's
Kingdom was nigh, just as he had proclaimed. R4608:5
Matthew 12:29
One enter into -- This would be in the second presence of our Lord. From
the time of our Lord's parousia, disorder began in Satan's household.
R4609:6
Strong man's house -- His household, which would include the fallen
angels. R4609:3
Spoil his goods -- All the present institutions of the world are Satan's
goods and arrangements. Q626:1; SM103:1; R1626:6
In his Reign of Righteousness, our Lord will destroy the works of evil,
sin, superstition, ignorance, etc. SM243:1
First bind -- Seems to imply that it will begin in a sudden manner.
R4609:3
The first work of the new king is the binding of Satan. Truth will be the
chain which will bind evil. When the knowledge of the Lord fills the whole
earth, Satan will be completely bound. R430:3,6*
Before anarchy comes, Satan must be bound. The collapse of Babylon,
ecclesiastical systems and false doctrines, will indicate that Satan has
been quite fully bound. Q626:1
The prince of this world, being slow to move out though his lease has
expired, will be put out, bound hand and foot, causing a great deal of
trouble. R5328:6
Every advance step of light and knowledge is that much restraint upon
darkness and evil superstition. R4609:6
How will Satan be bound? Not with handcuffs. Q627:2
The strong man -- Satan. SM103:1; R4609:3
"And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and
bound him a thousand years." (Rev. 20:2) C341; R4609:3
Gentile supremacy. R5526:2
That system of things of which Satan has stood as the head. R4609:3
And then -- If the house is being spoiled already, must we not conclude
that the personal devil has been bound for some time. R4695:3*
Spoil his house -- Our Lord will spoil Satan's goods, overthrow his
arrangements and institutions that are so deceptive. SM103:1
These will be spoiled in the great time of anarchy which will make ready
for the establishment of the Kingdom of Messiah. Q626:1
Christ shall not only bind the strong man, but then he shall spoil his
house, and during his reign he shall distribute the spoil to mankind, the
dominion of earth. R575:1
Overturn his arrangements in order to establish a better. R668:5
Drive his household out of power. C341
"He shall divide the spoils of the strong." (Isa. 53:12) R575:1
When Satan's power begins to fail because the stronger than he begins to
spoil his house, then this system will begin to be seen, revealed, and
recognized in its true character, as "The Mystery of Iniquity." R711:1
Hence we cannot pray our Father to grant abundant harvests, send rains,
prevent famines, droughts, wars and pestilences. R798:4
Matthew 12:30
Not with me -- The side of God, truth, righteousness. R4608:3

If we believe that there is a Chief Reaper, we ought to recognize him and
look for his guidance over the harvest field. We see different things
going on, all under the supervision of the Great Reaper. CR63:4
Are we now to have a different Reaper? Will the same Reaper change his
plans? Or shall we expect the great Chief Reaper to continue his work just
as he began in an orderly procedure to its full culmination? CR62:6
Whoever thinks he may do a separate harvest work, and that each should do
a separate work according to the bent of his own mind, has misunderstood
the divine program. R3885:4
Is against me -- Having thus answered their objection, he showed that
they were against him and thus opposing God. R4608:5
The side of error, falsehood, Satan. R4608:3
The entire human family is either on one side or the other of a great
battle between right and wrong, truth and error. R4608:2
The Sadducees, Pharisees and Herodians made common cause in opposition to
the Master and the harvest work in the end of the Jewish age. R3883:5
In our day, devotees of every sect can meet together in harmony; but all,
with one accord, are violently opposed to present truth. R3883:3
In this day of the Lord's presence, it becomes our duty, as well as our
privilege, to judge who is on the Lord's side; and who is against him is
against us. R1362:3
So far as the Lord is concerned, nobody can upset the work, but you can do
that which is the work of the Adversary in the way of interrupting the
Lord's work. CR64:5
Gathereth not with me -- Their zeal is not according to a knowledge of
God's plans; they are not working with God. R634:4*
Scattereth abroad -- If others want to work outside and scratch around,
let them do so. Let the Chief Reaper do the interrupting if it is
necessary. CR64:5
They hinder the harvest work, they attempt to sow discord amongst the
under-reapers by saying all manner of evil falsely against some of them.
R3884:5
Matthew 12:31
I say unto you -- Whether or not the scribes and Pharisees came to a
sufficiently clear appreciation of God's holy power to constitute them
amenable to the Second Death, we cannot judge. E272
All manner of sin -- Ordinary sins resulting from the fall, ignorance,
superstition, etc. R4608:6; E273
To have misunderstood and misrepresented the invisible God would have been
a much lighter offense. E271
And blasphemy -- Malicious words of opposition (see verse 36). R723:5
Shall be forgiven -- Would all, in God's providence, be ultimately
forgivable, if not willful. R4608:6; E273
Not may, but shall; but not without repentance. God, by his goodness, will
lead men to repentance. R78:1*
In some respects it is a mercy that the world is, in a large measure,
blind and deaf, and therefore in the same proportion irresponsible as
respects the message now being delivered to the meek. NS208:3
During this age, for lack of light; during the next age, as knowledge and
strength will be acquired gradually, all imperfection and shortcomings
will still be forgiven because of Christ's redemption, until men reach
perfection. R569:6
If there is more or less of ignorance, then the punishment is in
proportion to the amount of willfulness. Q281:5
The sins and blasphemies which may be forgiven are such as are committed
in ignorance. The sins which cannot be pardoned are the willful sins.
R1984:4
But the blasphemy -- Evil speaking, evil acting, contrary to the spirit
of the truth, the spirit of righteousness, the Spirit of the Lord, as they
had learned and understood the same. NS244:1
"He that committeth sin is of the devil." (1 John 3:8). Those who sin
willfully, deliberately, are of the devil, and are not guided by the holy
Spirit of God. NS243:6
The holy ghost -- Every sin against the holy Spirit, against clear light
and knowledge of divine power, is unforgivable. E273; R4608:6, 2612:2
The holy Spirit here denotes a light, an intelligence, respecting God's
purposes. R5105:6
Whoever willfully and intelligently would sin against Jesus would be
guilty of blasphemy against the holy Spirit. R5106:1; Q280:7
Attributing God's spirit or power to Satan's power. R4608:5
There may be various degrees of heinousness in God's sight, small or great
sins. R5452:6
When a demonstration of the power, spirit, of God in doing a good work was
manifested, though they might not have received it as a proof of Jesus'
claims, they were inexcusable for attributing it to Satanic power. R723:5,
260:2
The Pharisees had not intentionally blasphemed Jehovah, nor particularly
blasphemed Jesus; they had blasphemed against the holy Spirit which was
operating in him. E271; R5453:1
Not be forgiven -- Some sins against the holy Spirit might be punished
with stripes, others with death. R5452:6
Must be expiated by punishment. E273
The Pharisees, to whom these words were addressed, could not commit this
sin, because they had not the fullness of knowledge. R5293:4, 5452:6
Where any measure of willfulness is associated with sin it takes it to
that degree out of the list of forgivable sins and places it in the list
of the unforgivable. NS244:3
Adam's sin was an unforgivable one because it was the sin of a perfect
being, a willful sin against the Spirit, not unintentional, but
deliberate. NS243:2
If we were perfect, as Adam was perfect, any transgression of the law
would be as unforgivable as was Father Adam's transgression. NS243:4
Matthew 12:32
Speaketh a word -- Ignorantly. E271; R5390:6

Against the Son -- If one blaspheme the name of Jesus, being deceived in
some way, then the sin is not blasphemy against the holy Spirit and may be
forgiven. Q281:T
To have misinterpreted Jesus' motives, claiming he was merely trying to
usurp a throne and exalt himself in power, would have been a comparatively
light offense. E271; R732:5, 260:2
Shall be forgiven -- To the proportion of its ignorance and weakness,
any sin is forgivable; to the proportion that any sin was willful,
intentional, it is unforgivable and must be expiated by punishment. E273;
R5453:1, 5390:6, 5106:4, 4608:6
The Holy Ghost -- Denotes a light, an intelligence, respecting God's
purpose. R5105:6
Maliciously attributing to an evil source what could not be denied as a
good work, free from sin, selfishness or ambition. E271; R5390:6
All sins against light and ability are unpardonable, cannot be forgiven at
any time, and hence they must be punished. R260:5
Sins against clear manifestations of divine grace cannot be attributed to
weakness of the flesh and heredity, but must be properly charged as
willful viciousness of the heart, which is unforgivable. E272
Not be forgiven -- This does not mean that the individual will be
punished for it forever. It simply means that such sin cannot be forgiven
and could only be expiated. R5690:2, 723:5, 372:5, 260:3 If punishment
does not bring reformation, it would mean the second death. R5390:6
All who receive "stripes" receive them for unpardoned sins, for if the
sins were pardoned they would not be punished for them. R260:3
The Lord will accept a judging of ourselves as being the stripes due such
a sin and probably give no further stripes, because of the
self-correction. NS245:6
Those who do not accept when once they have a full opportunity, die the
second death, from which we are told of no recovery, no ransom. R44:2
Neither in this world -- During this Gospel age. R4608:6
Jesus' miracles and preachings were the commencement of the Gospel age, as
he is the head of the Gospel Church. R723:5
There is such thing as forgiveness of sins, both in the present Gospel age
and in the coming Millennial age. R260:2
The world to come -- The Millennial age. R4608:6
Future. The word "age" occurs but once in the text. R723:5
Those who have utterly apostatized here cannot be forgiven there; but the
honest, though weak, who have failed of the crown now, through weakness of
the flesh, may be forgiven there. R779:5*
Matthew 12:34
Generation -- Greek, gennema, race. D603

Of vipers -- So set on the traditions of their church that their eyes
were blinded against the simplest kind of reasoning. E271; R372:5
The abundance -- Whatever one has stored up in the mind will be topmost
and sure to be spoken. R5518:6
A man's treasure shows in which way his mind is bent. His preferences
demonstrate his character. The things which we cultivate are an index to
our character. R5519:1
Heart -- Used with the force of the word "mind." R5518:4
The heart is representative of the character, and the mouth is the index
of the character. R5518:4, 5122:6, 1937:1
If we get the heart right, the effect will be a proportionate cleansing
and purifying of the flesh. SM335:1
A right condition of heart is necessary to right words. R1937:1
Heart attitude. R5470:6
A heart filled and overflowing with the spirit of love and truth will
bestow it upon others. R4770:6, 2444:1
The Scriptures everywhere exhort the Lord's people to be pure in heart.
SM336:T
Our first concern, then, should be for the heart, that the affections and
dispostions may be fully under the control of divine grace. R1937:2
The mouth speaketh -- If the principles of truth, righteousness,
reverence for God and love for the beauties of holiness are established in
the heart, we shall have no difficulty in controlling our tongue. R5519:4,
5247:3
He who watches his tongue is putting a detective on his deceitful heart,
and can better know and master it. R2445:1
If it speaks slander, it shows the real heart condition. F408; NS590:5
Our words continually bearing testimony of the condition of our hearts.
R5122:6
An evil mouth, a mouth which does injury to others, indicates an evil
heart. R2444:1
What a fearful responsibility attaches to the tongue that wags in an evil
or even in a flippant way, which is also dishonoring to God. R1938:2
The Lord judges the heart according to our words. R5122:5
By this we may judge or test ourselves. OV208:4
Today, opponents of the truth use slanderous charges rather than personal
violence. R5545:2
Matthew 12:35
The good treasure -- We must reach the place where not only we do not
will to do harm to our neighbors, but where we sincerely wish to do them
good. OV209:1
Forth good things -- The fruitage of kindness, mercy and love--good
works. SM335:2; OV208:4
Our lives should be so that all of our friends and acquaintances would be
ready to say of us, He is a good man; his message will have something of
consolation in it. R4277:6
Evil things -- Bitter things, poisoned arrows, injurious to all with
whom they come in contact. OV208:4
Matthew 12:36
But I say unto you -- The Scribes and Pharisees, who were trying to
catch him in his words, using technicalities of language. R5517:2; OV208:3
Every idle word -- Unprofitable, pernicious, injurious, disloyal,
frivolous, flippant, unkind, unthankful, unholy, impure. R1938:1, 5517:2,
2613:1, 722:2
Whether written or spoken. OV208:3
Our Lord referred to the thoughts behind the words. R5518:2
The safe attitude of the soul under afflictions and severe testings is
silence before God, waiting and watching to see his leading before
presuming to touch things that involve so much. R1937:5
Perfect mastery of our words and ways is to be sought by vigilant and
faithful effort. R4805:2
Every evil act and every pernicious word will be recorded in the
individual's own character. OV209:2
In the context, referring to words of willful and malicious opposition
spoken against manifest light (see verses 24, 31, 32). R2613:1, 722:3
Oh, the power of a slanderous word! the power of an insinuation! Yea, even
of a shrug of the shoulder! OV208:3
Shall give account -- Be dealt with, corrected and disciplined in
righteousness, to bring to true reformation and final perfection. R1469:5,
5517:3
The wrong-doer specially injures and marks himself by the wrong he has
practiced in evil-speaking and evil-doing. OV209:2; R5517:6
The Christian should daily render his accounts at the throne of grace.
R4805:2, 5517:6
Let us remember daily to settle our accounts with the Lord, to make sure
that no record of idle words, unrepented of, and consequently unforgiven,
stands against us. R1938:6
Day of judgment -- Day of trial, of testing, of reckoning. OV207:1;
R5517:6
Not a day of doom. OV207:1
With the Church, this Gospel age. R5517:6, 1938:1; HG40:6; OV208:2
The Church is now standing before the bar of divine judgment. Both the
heart and mouth are under special scrutiny. R5518:3, 4805:5
The Millennial day, granting to Adam and each member of his race an
individual, personal trial. OV207:2
In the Millennial age "day of judgment," there will be a reckoning, even
for every pernicious word. R1654:1
Matthew 12:37
By thy words -- The Lord's consecrated people have a responsibility for

what effect their words and influences have upon others. OV208:3
The Lord has agreed that he will not judge the Church according to their
words and their deeds entirely, but according to their spirit, intention
and will. OV208:4
Be justified -- Nothing but the merit of Christ's sacrifice can justify
any from the Adamic condemnation. OV209:3
The word is used here in a limited sense. R5470:3
The good words spoken being an indication of the converted state of the
heart. PT391:T*
By our words of repentance, supplemented by the merits of Christ applied
by faith. R1938:3
Acquitted. R1937:4
Not that every man will be justified from the Adamic condemnation by any
words that he could utter. OV209:3
By thy words -- Words are an index of the heart. R5470:5
Be condemned -- Suffer the consequences. The first will be self-injury,
and the second, a bad example for others. R1938:3
"Blessed is the man who is not condemned by that which he alloweth." (Rom.
14:22) OV209:4
By their words the Pharisees proved themselves dishonest; no longer worthy
of God's special favor. R5470:5
The Pharisees were in their trial time. R5470:2
Idle words will stand against us if not repented of. R4805:5
Matthew 12:38
See a sign from thee -- A proof of his Messiahship; not recognizing his
teachings and his miracles as proof sufficient. R4608:6
Matthew 12:39
The prophet Jonas -- He then told them of one sign which would come to
them too late. R4608:6
Matthew 12:40
For as Jonas -- The various parts of the entire Bible are bound together
by their mutual endorsement of the various writers, so that to reject one
is to mar the completeness of the whole. R1145:5; A61
Contrary to the belief of many modern theologians. A61; HG317:5
Three days and three nights -- Indicating that his resurrection would be
on the third day. Q586:T; R4608:6, 4603:2
Typifying the last part of the fifth, all of the sixth, and the first part
of the seventh thousand-year day, in which the body of Christ was to be in
the prison-house of death. R2888:3, 3568:5*
This statement of Jesus was idiomatic and implied that he would be in the
heart of the earth "till the third day." (Matt. 16:21; 20:19) For proof
see Gen. 42:17,18; 2 Chron. 10:5,12; Esther 4:16; 5:1. R3574:5*
In the whale's belly -- If these be false, Jesus must have been a fraud
and not the Son of God. It would also imply that he was much less inspired
and wise than were the modern wise men who dispute these facts. R4151:6
Matthew 12:41
Rise in judgment -- In the Millennial age the people of Nineveh will

rank higher than they. R4608:6
This generation -- Greek, genea, people living contemporaneously. D603
Shall condemn it -- Just as heathendom will condemn Christendom for its
misuse of divine favor. D72
Matthew 12:42
Queen of the south -- The Queen of Sheba had journeyed afar to hear
Solomon's wisdom. R4608:6
Shall condemn it -- A reproof for his own nation, indicating that they
were careless, indifferent respecting the truth. R3284:6
Uttermost parts of the earth -- Sheba, the queen's home, was in southern
Arabia, a land noted at that time for its immense wealth and particularly
for its perfumes. R2067:5
To hear the wisdom -- Her zeal for wisdom is evidenced by the fact that
she brought so valuable a treasure so long a distance through a wilderness
where she was liable to the attacks of Bedouin robbers. R2067:5
Indicating the Lord's approval of this desire for wisdom evinced by the
queen. R3284:6
Greater than Solomon -- The antitype being greater than the type.
R2068:1, 1517:2
A still wiser man, heir to the world, seeking a bride for joint-heirship.
R5722:5
Our Lord Jesus Christ, the embodiment of wisdom, justice, righteousness,
with riches of grace, glory, honor, dominion. R2068:1, 3284:6
Those who were in his presence realized it not and heeded not his message.
R4608:6, 5722:4
Matthew 12:44
Swept and garnished -- Sins forgiven and grace of God received. R5378:5
Matthew 12:45
Then goeth he -- If Christ has not been enthroned in the mind already
weakened by previous obsession. R2173:3, 4291:5
Satan will seek to regain control through the spirit of the world--pride,
anger, malice, hatred, strife. R5378:5
Seven other spirits -- The number seven representing perfection or
completeness. These seven are contrasted with the seven spirits of God.
(Rev. 1:4; 3:1) R370:6
Worse than the first -- Worse than before he came into relationship with
Christ. R5378:5
"For it had been better for them not to have known the way of
righteousness, than, after they had known it [been begotten by the Word of
God] to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them." (2 Pet. 2:21)
R1698:3
They enter in -- Even if justified from all sins, we need an occupant
for our hearts--the Divine One, to guard our hearts. R4291:5
Matthew 12:48
Who is my mother? -- When our new condition is fully entered upon, we

shall no longer be husbands, wives, parents, children, brothers and
sisters with those on the earthly plane. R943:6
Our love to our former dear ones will be no less than now. Our love will
be greatly intensified, though not bounded by the former limits of blood
relationship. R943:6
Does not imply that the unbelieving husband or wife is to be neglected so
that time and fellowship can be given to those of the new mind; but the
obligation of each is to his mate. F590
Who are my brethren? -- Not all who name the name of Christ. R5938:4
The word implies fellowship and being children of one father. R2798:4
Matthew 12:49
Behold my mother -- Our most intimate relationships are no longer those

of earthly origin. R943:3
And my brethren -- How beautiful the lesson of the Great Teacher's
breadth of spirit. R5037:6
Matthew 12:50
Whosoever -- Regardless of caste or class. R5037:6

Shall do the will -- It is by our deeds and not merely by our
professions that we are accepted of the Lord. R5938:3
We are to anticipate true fellowship only with those who earnestly seek to
do the Father's will, serve his cause, and exemplify the instruction of
His word, in deeds as well as in professions. R5938:4, 2235:3
Same is my brother -- Those who earnestly seek to do the Father's will.
R5938:4
In my new family, "the household of faith." F590
A very emphatic statement of our dear and close relationship to him and to
the Father. R297:1
And yet the hour came when even these were scattered and he was left
alone. The persecution became so severe that they all fled. R1069:4*
Matthew 13
Matthew 13:2
Went into a ship -- From a boat our Lord taught a lesson respecting the
method of selecting the Little Flock. R4634:3
On the shore -- Which at this point is said to rise rapidly, therefore
giving the general effect of an amphitheater. R2627:2
Matthew 13:3
In parables -- Really word-pictures of the Kingdom. No one of these

parables represents the complete view of the subject, but merely one phase
of it. R2633:3
Giving prophetically the Church's experiences from various
standpoints--from the time the work of selection began until the time when
that work will be completed. R2276:3
Parables which illustrate truths can only be seen as illustrations as the
truths they illustrate become manifest. R1742:4
These parables, seven in all, refer not to the non-professing world, but
to two classes in the Church. R580:3, 263:6
About nine of them. Their object was to depict the processes of
development by which the Kingdom class would be selected. R2633:6, 2634:1
Behold -- It is never said, "The kingdom of heaven is likened to a
sower"--there was no Church of Christ, no Kingdom of heaven, until the day
of Pentecost. R97:3*
A sower -- Our Lord was the great sower, then the Apostles and his
faithful followers. R4634:3
To sow -- Various classes of hearers are shown here. R4635:1
Designed to show that it is not the eloquence, force or truthfulness of
the message that determines the result, but chiefly the attitude of the
heart that hears. R2627:2
This parable refers only to those who are no longer willing sinners, but
are outwardly righteous. R4635:1
Matthew 13:4
Seeds -- The Kingdom message, or invitation. R4634:3

The Word of God that liveth and abideth forever. R1698:4
By the wayside -- The fields of Palestine are not fenced and the paths
of travel frequently cross them. R3763:2
Representing merely formalists. R4635:1
And the fowls -- Birds are very numerous in Palestine; a farmer's chief
pest. R3763:2
Typifying Satan and his agents. R5406:5, 4634:6, 2634:6
Devoured them up -- Ever ready to take away the seed of truth. R5406:5
Matthew 13:5
Upon stony places -- Palestine abounds with limestone which renders the
soil very rich, but when shallow, very hot. R3763:2
Represents a class of hearers who lack depth of character; they flourish
for a time, but when trials and testings come, they stumble. R4635:1
Matthew 13:7
Among thorns -- There are 50 varieties of thorny plants in Palestine,

some growing to a height of 15 feet. R3763:2
Not briar bushes or brambles, but an aftergrowth of a variety of thistles
which come up quickly in every wheat field of Palestine. R2627:6*
The spirit of the world, its ambitions, wealth and influence, its love of
the good things of life. R4635:2
These thorns are not sensual vices and criminal appetites, but the cares
of this life and the deceitfulness of riches. R4635:1
The ground which will produce thorns is rich and very suitable for the
production of proper Christian character. R4635:1
Matthew 13:8
Good ground -- In the heart. R4634:6

Brought forth fruit -- Fruitfulness of heart, life and character depend
on the individual and how he receives the message. R4635:4
Some an hundredfold -- Those who come up to the very highest standard in
the fruits of the spirit. Q426:3; CR276:4
The larger the returns, the greater the Father's pleasure and the Savior's
glory. R4635:4
Indicates the degree and intensity of our earnestness. The rewards in the
Kingdom will also be proportionate. R4635:5
A single grain of barley has been known to produce a fruitage of 276
grains. R3763:2, 4635:4
Some sixtyfold -- The same class, but not to shine quite as highly in
the Kingdom. R426:3; CR276:4
The Apostle John speaks of the variety among Christians--little children,
young men and fathers. (1 John 2:12, 13) R97:5*
The same means of grace do not profit all to exactly the same extent.
Some, for instance, are by nature more studious, thoughtful, generous or
grateful. R1973:2
Some thirtyfold -- This might mean those who will be of the Great
Company. Q426:3; CR276:4
Matthew 13:9
Who hath ears -- "Take head how ye hear"--see that your heart is in a
right attitude to receive the truth. R2627:2
To hear -- "Preach the Gospel to the meek." (Isa. 61:1) R2965:6
Let him hear -- Those who had an inclination to be his disciples. R5003:5
"Let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches." (Rev. 2:7) B16
The Gospel was not to the Jews only, but to every people with hearts to
appreciate it. R2995:6
Do not expect all to hear and obey and enlist with us. NS61:6
Matthew 13:10
Said unto him -- Earnest desire to understand every word of God is an

evidence that we belong to the Kingdom class. R3763:5
In parables -- Dark sayings. Q748:2; D614
There is considerable truth in the claim that the doctrines of
Christianity can be better gleaned from the writings of the Apostles than
from the sayings of Jesus as reported in the Gospels. R5088:2
Matthew 13:11
Is given unto you -- The Church. E333

The meek, honest and faithful of God's people. D614; C214
The Apostles, the elect, the sanctified in Christ Jesus. OV230:4; R5462:4,
4909:2, 4334:3 Not only to the disciples of that day, but to the disciples
all through the ages. R1742:1
Even "as many as the Lord your God shall call." (Acts 2:39) SM242:T
As the Israelites indeed in whom there is no guile got the message, so a
similar class will get the message now. SM302:T
Not to inspire thankfulness and consecration, but only to the thankful and
consecrated who already have presented themselves living sacrifices to
God. R2723:1,4
"If any man shall do my Father's will, he shall know of my doctrine."
(John 7:17) R2817:1
Know the mysteries -- The Divine Plan of the Ages, the Messianic
Kingdom, the times and seasons. Q748:2; C215; R5244:6
"The deep things of God." (1 Cor. 2:10) R5402:2, 1506:1
"Ye, brethren, are not in darkness that that day should overtake you as a
thief." (1 Thess. 5:4) C215
Being "taught of God" and guided by his holy Spirit to an understanding of
his Word. R2627:3
The Lord's people in the present truth are the only ones who understand
the great mystery of why evil was permitted. R1506:1
To be so led by the Spirit and Word of the Father is to understand his
purposes and be enabled always to be workers together with God. R1948:1
A distinction should be observed in knowing about God and knowing God
himself. NS809:5
So that the Lord's consecrated people might know of the time in which we
are living, be more quickened and more separated from the world and its
spirit, and ripened as wheat. HG399:2
His secret counsels which others cannot know. R3161:4
The mystery which was kept secret since the world began, to know and
realize their relationship to Christ as his prospective bride and
joint-heir. R1957:6
That a certain class is permitted to join with their Redeemer in his
sacrifice and sufferings in order to be granted a share in the glorious
work of his Kingdom. R4515:3
Kingdom of heaven -- An interchangeable expression with "Kingdom of
God." R396:6
But to them -- Those outside of the twelve and other special disciples.
R4909:2
The multitudes who went to hear him; outsiders, not specially interested.
R5462:4, 4398:6, 3803:2; CR35:1
Not Israelites indeed. B28; HG399:1
Those without--strangers to God and unconsecrated. R2276:4
Outsiders, in what the Scriptures term "outer darkness," the darkness
which belongs to this present time of ignorance and superstition. (Matt.
25:30) R4398:6
It is not given -- The Lord never meant anybody to understand all these
things except the brethren. CR476:3
Not understood by those who heard them, and little better comprehended
today. A128
Not God's intention that many will understand the divine philosophy of the
ransom. R4352:3
The world knows nothing about the deep things of God. R4398:6
The special light in both harvests is for the Israelites indeed. B27, 28
In mercy, God has hidden his plan from the world. NS731:6
The majority are blinded by the God of this world, Satan, through various
traditions, heathen and Christian. R3140:5
Either because they never came into the right attitude of heart to receive
them, or because they subsequently left that proper condition of devotion,
humility and teachableness. R4352:4
An understanding of spiritual things would do harm rather than good to
those not spiritually begotten. R5008:1
Even his devoted followers, including the apostles, were natural men who
did not receive the begetting of the holy Spirit until Pentecost. R5941:2
The mystery has been in operation from the beginning of the world and is
still a mystery so far as the world is concerned, and will continue to be
a mystery until the end of the present dispensation and the opening of the
Millennial age. NS399:1
Not until the elect shall be glorified and the Millennial Kingdom
established will the "mystery" be made fully known to the world and every
knee bow and every tongue confess. OV230:4; NS588:2
Matthew 13:12
Whosoever hath -- Hath used. R2496:6

Shall be given -- Shall be given more. CR309:3
More abundance -- The Logos, who had always proved faithful in all
things, was offered the headship of the New Creation. F64
Whosoever hath not -- Hath not used. R2496:6; CR309:3
Even that he hath -- The privileges that he had; so don't overlook the
little things. CR309:3
Matthew 13:13
Therefore -- The purpose was that those in the right condition of heart
might receive the instruction while others, indifferent, careless, would
be left in ignorance. NS605:6
In parables -- The misconceptions of our forefathers on the subject of
punishment for sin were built upon mistranslations or statements meant to
be understood symbolically. HG653:6
They see not -- There are many who lack spiritual sight, who cannot
exercise faith in what they cannot see; and, according to the Scriptures,
they are not responsible for their failure. SM680:T
God is not blaming them. We do not smite a blind man because he does not
see. On the contrary, we sympathize with him. SM679:4
They hear not -- When our Lord was preaching, comparatively few had an
ear to hear. The majority were too full of their own ideas and projects,
and thus it has been all down the Gospel age. SM679:3
Many of the Lord's saints have had the ears of their understanding so
perverted by false teachings respecting predestination that they do not
know the song of Zion when they hear it. NS634:3
The majority of professing Christians are careless, indifferent to what
the Lord has caused to be written for their admonition and encouragement
and assistance in this "evil day." SM288:1
Matthew 13:15
They have closed -- Because of ignorance and blindness. R5338:6

Be converted -- Turned to a proper course. R3763:3
Heal -- Greek, Iaomai, to heal; also signifying "saved." R4099:3*
Matthew 13:16
But -- God's work in the present time is not the conversion of the
world, which certainly is not being accomplished; but the taking out of
the world a people for his name, to bear the name of Christ as his bride.
NS859:6
Blessed -- Especially anointed, specially blessed. R5418:4, 5372:6
For these alone is the message. OV230:5; SM109:2, 679:3
It is a great privilege to hear and see. SM343:3; NS859:6
With a present opportunity; and, if we respond, we are now on trial. Q590:2
A blessing in the life that now is and also in that which is to come, and
a peace and joy which they never knew before, which the world can neither
give nor take away. NS412:1
Blessed indeed in advance of the world; but blessed also will be the world
when God's due time shall come. NS569:4
Are your eyes -- Of faith, of understanding. R4677:2, 4967:6, 177:5,
175:6; OV57:4; CR126:4
The eyes of our understanding must be opened before we can appreciate
spiritual things. PD44/53
The opening of our eyes is a gradual work. CR334:1
God is not trying to attract the world now; they are blind and deaf.
SM343:3
Only a "remnant" of Israelites indeed, who accepted the Messiah, were
received into the higher dispensation. R2371:6; NS631:2
The time is coming when all the blind eyes shall be opened and all the
deaf ears shall be unstopped. Q416:2; SM729:1; NS386:3
For they see -- Intimating that some could see and others could not.
R5338:6; Q590:2
The blessing of present truth. CR13:6
See His Word, showing us the way in which we should go. CR13:5
At the first advent, the humble Israelites indeed were not confused, but
enlightened, and the same is true now. D599
We may now rejoice in things too hard for the Jew to understand and
equally impossible for the natural man of the Gentiles to comprehend.
R3590:6
We are to expect a wide difference of understanding of God, his mightiness
and character, as viewed by the saints and by the world. R2712:2
These alone see that the "hell" of the Bible is the tomb, that there is
provision for the salvation of all--two classes of mankind--and many other
truths. NS588:2
The eye of faith is directed by God's Word. Q416:2
We can see more clearly because we are spirit-begotten. R5418:4
He only wished to have those see it who would accept the blessed truth.
R327:5*
The opening up of the divine word, the discernment of the divine plan with
its times and seasons, and the confusion upon Babylon are satisfactory
proofs of the presence of the King. D599
The manifestation of God's love. The world in general has seen only the
display of divine justice in permitting the wages of sin to bring
calamities and troubles. NS462:5
And your ears -- Ears of faith. R4677:2, 4967:6, 4557:2; CR126:4
While spirit-anointed members of Christ tell the good tidings unto all
people, they understand that only such as have ears to hear will be able
to comprehend and appreciate the message until the new dispensation.
NS222:2
For they hear -- The message of the Lord. CR13:3,5; SM369:1
You who have heard must have been called. CR13:2
Thus far, Jesus has not been dealing with the world, but merely with those
having the eye and ear of faith. R4967:6
Before your study can be effective you must make your consecration to the
Lord. These are the ones the Lord has promised shall see and hear. CR14:1;
Q186:1
An opportunity to return to harmony with God cannot come except through
knowledge; hence, it comes first to those who have the "hearing ear."
R4154:6
Matthew 13:17
Have desired -- Before the due time. R1307:5

Have not seen them -- Though much had been foretold by the prophets,
they confessed their ignorance of the import of their prophecies. B23
"They say of me, Doth he not speak in parables" (Ezek. 20:49); "I heard,
but I understood not" (Dan. 12:8). B23
The operation of God's spirit upon the prophets was so different from the
operation of the same spirit upon the Gospel Church that the humblest
Christian may know more of God's plan than would the greatest prophet.
R435:3
Matthew 13:18
Hear ye therefore -- Understand ye. NS605:3

One of the few parables which our Lord himself interpreted. R4634:6
Matthew 13:19
Word -- Message of the Kingdom. R5039:2

"The Gospel of the kingdom"--the information that God has appointed Christ
to be King and he is now seeking a little flock to be his associates in
the work of blessing and restoring the world. NS606:3,6
Of the kingdom -- The message respecting the Kingdom, which,
germinating, constitutes his Church. R2276:5
The message of the Kingdom may be said to be the only message God has yet
given to mankind as a message of hope. R2628:4
At the time of utterance, the message of the Kingdom took on a special
form--an invitation to become joint-heirs with the Messiah, the heir of
Understandeth it not -- On such ears, the message is lost. R4634:6
Then cometh -- On the alert, to take it away. R4634:6
The wicked one -- Satan. R3764:3, 5039:2, 4634:6
Catcheth away -- Devouring the exposed seed of truth. R4635:1, 5406:5
In his heart -- In the first parable, the field is the heart; in the
second, "the field is the world." (Verse 38) R97:2*
If all hearts were right, the seed would bring forth much fruit. R4634:6
This is he -- We blame not. The Lord blames him not. It was not his
fault that his mind was so down-trodden with ignorance that the message of
the Kingdom could find no lodgment in his heart. NS607:1
Seed -- The Kingdom message or invitation; many do not understand it.
R4634:3,6
By the way-side -- The heart being solid and compact with selfishness
that comes with prosperity, needing the plowshare of trouble. R2627:3,
3754:3
Wayside hearers constitute the most numerous class in every nominal church
congregation. R4635:1
Matthew 13:20
Into stony places -- Having a veneer of outward grace, but at heart a

character of selfishness. R2627:5 The influences of the Kingdom will give
them strength of character and take away the unfavorable, stony condition
which now hinders fruitage. NS607:4
Matthew 13:21
Not root in himself -- They lack depth of character. R4635:1, 1711:4

The selfishness which is the sub-stratum of their character will not
permit them to endure hardness for the truth's sake. R2627:5
Persecution ariseth -- Persecution withers them. NS607:3
As soon as they find that with the truth goes something of persecution and
tribulation, their interest speedily dies out. R2627:6
He is offended -- The purpose of permitting offenses and divisions is
"that they which are approved [by God, because they endure the tests and
stand fast in the truth] may be made manifest among you." (1 Cor. 11:18,
19) R1711:5
Matthew 13:22
Among the thorns -- Pride, ambition for self and for family, love of
money and the pursuit of it, and the award which this pursuit brings, are
the thorns. NS608:1
Earthly projects and ambitions whose interests conflict with the interests
of the Kingdom. R3764:5
Thorns are uprooted by drawing time and attention away from the earthly
things in a compulsory manner. R2628:2
In Palestine, the thorns and thistles grow in the very best kind of soil.
R2627:6
Is he -- There are many noble people represented by this portion of the
parable. R4635:2
Care of this world -- Involved with the spirit of the world. R4635:2,
5055:5
Being swallowed up by ambition or business. R5625:5
Home duties, family duties, business cares, etc. R2628:1
Deceitfulness of riches -- Greediness. R5307:2
Few of the Lord's people can be trusted with riches. R2520:2
If a Christian grows rich, it should be with fear and trembling. The power
in money is more dangerous than dynamite. R1045:5*
Choke the word -- Swamped by the ordinary duties of life, proper enough
in themselves, to a limited degree. NS607:6
Becometh unfruitful -- Fruitage is a necessary qualification. R4635:2
"Ye cannot serve God and mammon." (Matt. 6:24) R3764:5
Matthew 13:23
Into good ground -- We, as new creatures, have the determining of the
condition of the soil in our own hearts. NS608:3
Understandeth it -- We should understand the Kingdom message. Hence the
need of Bible study. R4635:4
As study is wisely devoted to prepare for the short earthly life, how much
more is it proper for our preparation for eternal life? R4635:5
Beareth fruit -- Of character-development; the manifestation of God's
grace in our hearts. R4634:3, 5284:2
Varying amounts according to circumstances, conditions and ability; but
always their very best. R5736:5
And bringeth forth -- The harvest of thirty, sixty or a hundredfold
illustrates degree and intensity of our earnestness. R4635:5
Some an hundredfold -- Those who love the Lord, his truth and his people
most fervently. R2628:4
The rewards of the Kingdom will also be proportionate. R4635:5
Some sixty -- "As star differeth from star in glory, so also will be the
resurrection" of the Church. (1 Cor. 15:41, 42) NS608:5
Some thirty -- He does not speak slightingly of those which bring forth
but the thirty-fold. R2628:3
Matthew 13:24
Another parable -- He had something more to communicate, some additional

truths were to be illustrated. R97:1*
These parables are related to each other, but should not be confounded.
The first prepares the way for the other. The first deals with the
individual; the second with the church collectively. R97:1,4*; NS626:2
To show some of the difficulties which interfere with the best hearers,
the best hearts, some with the best seed. R3769:3
Kingdom of heaven -- Practically every parable which our Lord uttered
was given to teach something respecting the character of the Kingdom.
NS627:2
The embryo Kingdom during the entire Gospel age. R5048:3, 3769:3
Is likened unto -- It is the invisible world which is the fact; it is
the visible world which is the metaphor. R29:5*
A man -- The Lord Jesus. R3769:3, 5048:6
Sowed good seed -- The Gospel of the Kingdom from the Word of God, "He
brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel." (2 Tim. 1:10)
R3769:3, 5048:6 Seeds of truth, the promises, which, springing up in the
hearts of his disciples, transformed them to newness of life. R2634:1
"Which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord." (Heb. 2:3) R3769:3
Christ and the Apostles sowed the good seed, meanwhile gathering the ripe
wheat of the Jewish nation. R5018:3
It was impossible for the Adversary to corrupt the seed of truth which
Jesus and the Apostles sowed. R4635:3
Christ's saintly followers. OV395:2
His personal seed-sowing of the Gospel message was accomplished more than
18 centuries ago, but since then he has been represented by his followers.
NS626:2
An illustration of slow, gradual, methodical development covering the
entire period of this Gospel age. R5049:6
This parable ignores all except the "good ground" hearers of the preceding
parable. R4635:2
In his field -- The entire world. R5048:6
The civilized world. C137, 140
Especially throughout Europe and America. R2634:2
Matthew 13:25
But while men slept -- After the apostles fell asleep. F60, 201;
R4635:2, 3769:6, 2634:2, 2276:6; OV395:2; NS633:5
In the night, the dark ages, while a general spirit of slumber regarding
the truth prevailed among the Lord's people. R3769:6, 5018:5, 4891:4
Even yet the same thing is true. "Therefore, let us not sleep as do
others." (1 Thess. 5:6) R3769:6
The Church was kept free from tares before the apostles fell asleep by God
arranging that truth be put forth for acceptance or rejection by the Jews
in its most unfavorable light, so that only Israelites indeed would be
inclined to become followers of Jesus. R2925:1
During the Apostles' days such special gifts as "discernment of spirits"
enabled them to prevent tares from getting in among the wheat, hypocrites
from getting into the Church. R580:3, 20:1
"After my departing grievous wolves shall enter in among you, not sparing
the flock." (Acts 20:29, 30) NS633:6
Many of the Lord's followers have been dreaming about the conversion of
the world while the great enemy, Satan, has been sowing tares with liberal
hand in their very midst. R3769:6
His enemy came -- The great adversary, Satan. R4635:2; OV395:2
He had a comparatively free hand. R2943:2
Satan and his associates, fallen angels, have been plotting against the
divine plan and operating with a view to thwarting the same all through
this age. R3770:3
Using human instrumentalities. NS94:3
Sowed tares -- Sham wheat, imitation wheat, professors who draw nigh
with their lips while their hearts are far from the Lord. NS94:3
Hypocrites, Nominal Christians, resembling or counterfeiting the true, to
choke the wheat, if possible. R4653:3, 5823:5, 5018:5, 4635:3, 3770:2
The offspring of error, children of the wicked one. R4644:2, 5864:3
Errors, more or less twisting and distorting every truth of the divine
revelation. F60; C137; OV395:2
It may be a message of morality or purity of life, but it will not produce
the Kingdom class. R5736:6
Nullifying the virtues of the death of Christ by a method of imitation.
R5848:4*
The tare seed is false teaching, human philosophies and doctrines of
devils. R2627:3; NS93:5
Bearded darnel, which cannot be discerned from wheat until the harvest.
The wheat, weighted with golden grains, humbly bows its head; while the
tares stand straight, the head having little weight and the seed being
black. R3770:1, 5848:3*, 4635:3
The darnel seed is poisonous. R3770:2, 2276:6
Poisonous, and acts as an emetic, causing vomiting. R2276:6
Such spite-work is not uncommon in the Orient, or in Palestine. R4635:3;
CR250:6
These have run the church organizations, and the Lord has permitted it to
be so and is allowing the truly consecrated ones to be developed under
these different conditions. NS292:5
Deceived persons, misnaming themselves Christians, because mistaught by
churchianity. R2943:1
The spirit of rivalry, under the guidance of the Adversary, led step by
step to the ultimate organization of the great Antichrist system--Papacy.
F201
The tares are begotten of error--false doctrine. NS94:3
With the error respecting the nature of man, that he is alive when dead
and needs no resurrection; and respecting the Kingdom of God, that it came
in Papacy. HG272:4
The heathen, converted by Papacy, were not benefited, for they were still
heathen in God's sight, but deluded into aping what they did not
understand or do from the heart. R2598:3
Since the death of the apostles, any number of hypocrites have come into
the church, indeed have been dragged and coaxed in to swell the numbers.
R2943:5
There are many fine, noble people among the tares who have neither part
nor lot with the wheat because they are not of the same nature, not
begotten of the truth. NS94:2
Doubtless in the same manner as the wheat; the wheat growing from seeds of
truth, while the tares are offspring of errors. C146; NS627:3
False doctrines, false teachings. R5048:6
Because it was impossible for the Adversary to corrupt the seed of truth.
R4635:3
A certain amount of tares spring up with the wheat anyway, and these the
servants gather out as soon as discerned. But our Lord wished to show an
abnormal condition. R3770:3
The Greek implies over-sown; intentionally, maliciously sown in the midst
of the wheat, for the very purpose of damaging or totally spoiling the
entire crop. R2276:6
More liberally than the wheat was sown. R2634:2
Among the wheat -- The true saints, the children of the Kingdom. C137;
R4635:3, 4644:2, 2943:1, 283:6
For the very purpose of choking it, "We wrestle not with flesh and blood,
but with wicked spirits in high positions." (Eph. 6:12) R3770:3
Wheat is the standard food of the world and is said to contain the
elements of nutrition in the best propositions for man's use. R2276:6
Matthew 13:26
The tares also -- Nominal Christians, much more numerous than the wheat.
C137
The children of the devil. R283:6
Imitation New Creatures, respectable, moral, good people. F200; R5736:6,
2277:3
The tares, as well as the wheat, were above the level of the field in
general, indicating superior morals. R2277:3
Begotten not of truth, begotten of excitement, of fear of hell, of hopes
of worldly advantage, of pride, of social and financial ambition. R2634:2
Matthew 13:27
From whence then -- But God knew all the time. CR250:6
Matthew 13:29
But he said, Nay -- We cannot follow the usual custom in this case,
because of the greatly excessive proportion of tares. R3770:4
While it was out of place for any to attempt harvest work before harvest
time, it is likewise a mistake to neglect harvest work in harvest time and
give attention to seed-sowing. R885:1*
Gather up the tares -- Because the true and false are too intimately
associated, their roots intertwining in society, home, etc. R4635:5
Ye root up also -- Unsettle, disturb. C137; R4635:5, 3770:4
So closely intertwined are the roots of the two classes that to disturb
such close relationship in life would cause great commotion. NS627:4
"Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both
will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will manifest the
counsels of the hearts." (1 Cor. 4:5) R98:1*
The wheat with them -- So intimately were the true and false associated.
R4635:5
To have cleansed the wheat field in the past would have meant a commotion
which would not have served the best interests of the wheat. R2634:4
Only the Lord, who could read the hearts, could distinguish between them
with unerring precision. R1362:1
Matthew 13:30
Let both grow -- Christ did not seek to prevent or hinder tare
development. F200
The nominal church has neglected these instructions, yet has not kept all
the wheat in, or shut out all the tares; hence they are without any
excuse. C138
They have set up false, unscriptural standards and doctrines, which have
really developed many tares and choked and separated the wheat. C138
For the wheat's sake, God's favor extended even to these mixed bunches of
Babylonish systems until 1878, when they were completely and forever cut
off from all favor. C155
Together -- Throughout the age. R4635:6; PD59/70
Christians and imitation Christians have lived side by side in the same
city, house, family. R5049:1
Only the expert can discern the wheat from the tares while growing. R4635:3
During the Gospel age the wheat and tares together represent the Kingdom
of God. R4653:3
In the general nominal church system, elsewhere called Babylon or
confusion, because of its mixture of truth and error, wheat and tares.
NS93:6
The nominal church has included wheat and tares; many of the latter have
found their way into the pulpits. D61
The Lord has not hindered them from associating with his saints or using
his name and claiming that they are members of his Church. NS94:4
The tare class has had a general control for some time, and has divided
the wheat-field with various creed-fences. NS389:1
The tares received a certain advantage from their attempt to imitate
wheat. It has made them more respectable than they would otherwise have
been. NS94:4
There were separations of politico-doctrinal storms before the harvest
time, but among these the tares, still predominating, formed other though
less objectionable, Babylonish systems. C154
We cannot admit that the wheat was all brought under Baptist fencing, and
that the tares were all outside. NS49:3
Until -- The command "Come out of her" was not given until after the
announcement "Babylon is fallen." (Rev. 18:4, 2) R457:5*
The harvest -- The end, or close, of the Gospel age. A237; B15; R4635:6;
OV297:3
The harvesting of the Jewish age began with our Lord's first advent, and
ended 40 years later at the destruction of Jerusalem. NS626:3
Parallel to the Jewish age harvest; many believe it began in 1874 and will
end in 1915. R5363:4
Forty years long--1878 to 1918. SM287:1; R5049:2, 5018:6, 4891:5; NS627:2
The time in which the tares will be gathered into bundles, and the wheat
into the heavenly garner. R5049:2
And in the time -- The close of the summer time of favor. D578
Signifying that it will not be instantaneous, but require time. R5049:2,
580:4, 236:3*, 223:1*
Which chronologically precedes the world's troubles. R593:3
Discussing such matters as when the harvest will end merely takes away
opportunities for usefulness. We would be better not to talk about such
things and be busily engaged in the harvest work. Q320:3,5
Of harvest -- In which we are now living. D31
Beginning October 1874. R5950:5
Parallel in time and work to the harvest of the Jewish age. B233; HG52:2,
55:1, 70:6
The harvest of the Jewish age gives us clear conceptions of what may be
expected in the harvest time of the Gospel age. NS21:3
During the harvest of the Jewish age a two-fold work progressed--the
harvest of the Jewish age and the preparation for the Gospel age. NS626:5
A time of reaping rather than sowing, a time of testing, of reckoning, of
settlement and rewarding. The harvest of the Jewish age being a type of
this age. C135
Three great periods of separation are revealed in God's Word: chaff from
wheat (Matt. 3:10, 12); tares from wheat (Matt. 13:37, 43) and sheep from
goats (Matt. 25:31). R34:2*
The time of executing the command, "Gather my saints together unto me,
those who have made a covenant with me by [self-] sacrifice." (Psa. 50:5)
R375:5
When the truth makes manifest the true character of these systems. R767:5
The harvest is not a time for peace; but, on the contrary, it will surely
produce separation and alienation between true wheat and all else. R969:6
Harvest work is reaping rather than sowing. We, therefore, dispense
stronger truths, not to the world but to the professed church. These
truths, as harvest sunshine, are warm and strong and tend to ripen the
wheat. R1073:5
The Jewish harvest is spoken of as being a separation of wheat from chaff,
while the harvest of this age is designated a separation of wheat from
tares. R2237:6; B234
Harvest time is the busiest time of all the year and a very brief period
compared with the time for sowing. R885:2*
It has three elements: separation, gathering and burning. R198:5*
The harvest is not ended; our expectations must not be allowed to weigh
anything against the facts. R5950:1
I will say -- The recognition of the harvest work in actual progress is
proof of the Lord's presence. B150
"He that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth and the earth
was reaped." (Rev. 14:16) B150
The Lord will be the chief reaper and director of the work, and this would
be his first work. B150
He directs them through the Word by opening their understanding to discern
the times and seasons there indicated and the work to be accomplished
therein. R600:3
It is not we, but Christ, who calls his people out of Babylon. We merely
call their attention to this words and show that they are reasonable.
R986:4
To the reapers -- Angels, messengers. C137
Such as he has used in plowing, sowing and watering throughout the age;
those begotten of his holy Spirit. D601
Gather ye together -- Into Labor Unions, Trusts, denominations and
protective associations of every kind. C140; Q317:4; R4636:1
The true wheat are to avoid membership in lodges, societies, churches,
sects, parties. R4636:1
The special trials appropriate to the complete separation of the wheat
from the tares are upon Christendom now. SM287:1
First the tares -- Which largely predominate, as did the chaff in the
harvest of the Jewish age. B234; R3770:4
Who think themselves to be the true Church. R4636:4
There are two parts to the harvest, the gathering of wheat followed by the
burning of tares. R5761:2
There is order in this harvest. R580:4
Very elect, with the appearance of being the masters of the field;
illustrating the proud boastfulness of those who are Christians in
association and appearance only. R2277:1
And bind them -- Restrain all individual thought and study on religious
subjects, as is done by the International Sunday School system, with its
carefully printed questions and answers and exercises, singing,
entertainment, picnics, etc. C142-144
As the Jews failed to recognize the binding and blinding influences which
came upon them, so nominal Christians today fail to see the features of
the "harvest" work now in progress. R2237:6
They are bound by human traditions and by a worldly spirit. R920:6
Bound rightly by their own prejudices. R878:6
Pride will hold them together; none will wish to appear disloyal or
cowardly. Societies act en masse. R1828:1
They seek to bind all by the impression that it is essential to salvation
to be joined to some one of their sects--it matters little to which
one--thus combining the idea of individual responsibility with sectarian
bondage. C141
In bundles -- Necessary, because of their great preponderance. R3770:4
Human organizations. R3771:1
Not only church organizations, but all the various organizations which tie
men together today, as never before. R1828:1; Q317:4
Labor Unions, Capitalistic Trusts and protective associations of every
sort. C140
Into lodges, societies, churches, sects, parties. R4636:1
Into great denominational bundles, labeled with various sectarian names.
R1488:2
A unification of sects. R3497:4
If it were demanded that we must join a union before we could work, we
should join; but if that organization should do anything we could not
approve, we should feel free to withdraw at any time. Q318:4
The spirit of the tares is toward sectarian greatness and show, rather
than toward individual obedience and allegiance to God. C141
In most of these bundles, sects, there are still some grains of wheat,
some consecrated ones, in whom the spirit of truth still has some
residence. R375:4
Each denomination retaining its own bondage or organization, and becoming
more firmly bound by being wedged in with others. C142
An evidence of the harvest work in progress. R4636:1
Ready for the burning, destruction. R5409:2
To burn them -- To destroy them, not as individuals, but as tares,
imitation wheat, in the great time of trouble. B105; C146, 148; F200;
R5916:3, 4644:2 Return them to the ground, the world whence they came.
C140; R3771:4
Not with literal fire. R4636:4
We cannot burn symbolic tares in literal fire. CR251:3
They do not burn them at once, but proceed to gather the wheat into the
garner. Not until the wheat is garnered does the fire consume the tares.
R2634:4
The Christian's duty is to lift up the standard and get the true wheat out
of all the tare-bundles into liberty, in union with Christ, the only Head.
R3566:6
Apparently the consuming of the tares will correspond very closely with
the division of the Jordan. R5951:4
So that none of the bad seed might affect the future crop. R4635:6
This is when the Great Company will wake up. R5761:2
Professed Christians will be shown in their true light. The true and false
will be completely manifested. R5761:5,6
But -- Without binding it into bundles. C140; Q318:1
Gather the wheat -- With the sickle of present truth. C139
The Church of Christ. R5256:4
Comparatively only a handful, a "little flock." B205
"They shall gather together his elect." (Matt. 24:31) B164; D601
"Gather my saints together unto me." (Psa. 50:5) B164
"Make up my jewels." (Mal. 3:17) B164; D600
"Come out of her, my people." (Rev. 18:4) D601
Evidently in smaller proportionate quantity, being taken directly to the
barns unbundled--precious, scarce. R3770:4
Separated from the tares--in spirit, but not necessarily in person. NS390:3
The wheat heads, full of heavy wheat, bend over with the weight; a
beautiful illustration of the modesty and meekness of the true and
fruitful Christian. R2277:1
Many laborers seem not to know whether they are to sow or to reap. They
want to sow and reap at the same time. R628:4*
The harvest is not of the living only, but also of the "dead in Christ."
The angels gather the living, but our Lord, the Chief Reaper, gathers or
raises, the dead. R20:2
If he is come to gather his saints and is also to come "with all his
saints" (1 Thess. 3:13; Jude 14; Zech. 14:5), there must be two parts or
stages of his coming. HG23:6,3
Those who are not spirit-begotten have no right to class themselves with
the wheat. R4635:6
Into my barn -- The barn condition of security, separateness from the
worldly. C212
Not into another denomination, but gathered to Christ, into oneness with
him, in fellowship of spirit through the knowledge of his Word. R2751:4
The spiritual condition; the glorified condition. R2693:2, 4644:2, 3686:2,
2277:6; F200; CR251:4; HG272:4, 438:5; NS21:4, 89:5, 810:2
The heavenly garner, the resurrection change. R4635:6, 5049:2; CR251:4;
PD59/70
We are not to understand that the harvest is yet wholly finished. R5761:2
Matthew 13:31
Parable -- These different parable-pictures represent the same subject

from different standpoints. R4636:2, 5049:6
Kingdom of heaven -- The nominal church of this Gospel age. R2634:6,
5049:6
The class called out of the world of mankind to be associated with him in
his Millennial Kingdom. R4636:2
Matthew 13:32
The least -- The Church of Christ was so unimportant in the world at one
time that it was a shame to belong to it. R4636:2
When it is grown -- Ultimately the nominal church would become honorable
and great. R4636:3
Illustrates how the gospel of the Kingdom would, from a small beginning,
attain considerable size. R4636:2
Greatest among herbs -- Not great among the trees, but among bushes of
herbage. R4636:2
Yet this large development does not signify advantage; on the contrary, a
disadvantage, in that the fowls of the air come, lodge in its branches,
and defile it. R2634:6
Becometh a tree -- With its various branches and denominations, the
nominal church is Babylonish. R4636:3
Birds of the air -- Satan and his agents. R2634:6, 5049:6, 4636:2
In the branches -- So great that the adversary's servants would have
pleasure in its shade. R4636:3
"The hold of every foul spirit and a cage of every unclean and hateful
bird." (Rev. 18:2) R2634:6, 5050:1, 45:6
Satan and his agents have been lodging in the branches of the Gospel
Church for centuries, defiling it. R2634:6
Matthew 13:33
Kingdom of heaven -- The Gospel age Church is the Kingdom in its embryo,
incipient or preparatory state. R1525:2, 5049:3, 2635:1
A parable of the Kingdom in the sense that it shows one of the experiences
which the Church would pass through in its present preparation for Kingdom
glories. HG272:5
Is like unto leaven -- Yeast, sin, error, corruption. F464; T98;
R5050:1,4, 4636:3, 2635:1
Which a woman -- An ecclesiastical system organized and in power at an
early date. R5050:4
"That woman Jezebel," the Papacy. (Rev. 2:20) R2635:4
Three measures of meal -- The pure food provided by the Lord for the
household of faith. R5050:4
The entire testimony of God's Word, the food for his family. HG272:5
Equivalent to one ephah, a good, liberal household supply. R2635:1
The faith once delivered to the saints; the hope set before us in the
Gospel and love, the bond of perfectness. R2635:4
Whole was leavened -- The food of the entire household became corrupted.
R4636:3
The entire mass of theological doctrine is putrid and offensive to all
Christian people. R5050:4
Not a particle of it was left uncontaminated. The result has been
indigestion. R5050:4, 4363:3
Faith was distorted; hope was changed to another hope; and the spirit of
the Lord, love, was perverted to a selfish love of creeds and human
institutions. R2635:4
Matthew 13:34
In parables -- None was ready for the depth of his teaching until after
the holy Spirit of Pentecost began to give qualification. R5444:2
Unto the multitude -- Jesus, speaking to his disciples, used plain
language; on the contrary, when he spoke to the multitudes, he always
employed a parable. HG511:4
Without a parable -- Not a statement of literal facts. R5004:3
Symbolic language; this was the customary way for Jesus to preach.
CR250:2; R4679:1
Because the true invitation was not for the ordinary multitude, but only
for the consecrated. R5088:1
An understanding of spiritual things would do harm rather than good to
those not spiritually begotten, to those not fully consecrated to the
Part of our difficulty has been taking the words of Jesus literally when
their very form should have shown us that they could not have been meant
literally, but as the figures of speech we use today. OV162:10
Spake he not -- None of the lessons of the Great teacher were given in
literal language; they were all symbolic. R4679:1
Matthew 13:35
In parables -- In figures and obscure sayings. R2602:6

An illustration of a truth by something which is, in many respects, like
it. A138
Not yet understood by the word, neither appreciated by any except the few,
his "little flock," the consecrated. CR10:6
I will utter things -- Expound the hidden truths of divine prophecy. F233
Jesus not only expounded the prophets, but he did so in parables,
prophecies and dark sayings. R667:6
Matthew 13:36
His disciples came -- Humble and truth-hungry, inquiring earnestly for

the truth. B28
Declare unto us -- The special light of both harvests is for the
Israelites indeed. B28
A special request for interpretation. R4635:6
The parable -- In every parable explained by our Lord, the thing said is
never the thing meant. R1000:2, 283:6; HG385:3
Matthew 13:37
He that soweth -- Jesus and the Apostles, and all his true followers.
R5048:6
The good seed -- The Gospel of the Kingdom. R4635:6, 5048:6
The Son of man -- His disciples have assisted under his direction. R576:1
Matthew 13:38
The field -- In which, during this present harvest time, the fruitage of
this Gospel age must be gathered; and the work of clearing, plowing and
preparing for the sowing and reaping of the Millennial age, must take
place. C121
Is the world -- The world of mankind, the civilized world, all nations.
C140; R5048:6
The kosmos, not the ge, the earth; nor the aion, the age. R2227:1, 97:2*
The world of mankind; and the seed is sown in their hearts. HG92:6
The world of mankind being counted the ground out of which the wheat and
also the tares grow and develop. C140
The world are neither wheat nor tares; they are simply material, as
ground, in which both good and bad seed may be sown. HG93:1
He is not dealing with the field, the world in general, but merely with
the corner of it which he has planted with the good seed. R3771:2
The good seed was planted in Palestine, Asia Minor and Europe, and from
thence has spread to America, and to some slight extent elsewhere.
Strictly speaking, Europe and North America are the wheat field. R2277:2
Children of the kingdom -- The spiritual children; classes n and m on
the Chart of the Ages. R275:3
But the tares -- The imitation New Creatures, posing as Christians.
F200; R4636:1
The result of false doctrines, false teachings. R5048:6
Not begotten of the holy Spirit. CR251:3
The children of -- Because their presence in the church is the result of
false doctrines, false teachings, sown by the adversary, Satan. R5834:3
The wicked one -- Despite the fact that they are mainly respectable,
moral, good people. F200; R4636:1; CR251:3
All of class q and many (if not all) of class p on the Chart of the Ages.
R275:6
The whole world of mankind, excepting the true Christians, born in sin and
shapen in iniquity, aliens and strangers from God, may be spoken of as
"children of the wicked one." R2277:4
Matthew 13:39
That sowed them -- Seeds of false doctrines, error, deception, using

human lips and pens in Satan's service through pride and ambition.
R5137:3, 5769:3, 4635:6
And thus brought the worldly masses into the church. R2598:3
Is the devil -- Whose personality is here recognized in unmistakable
terms. R3769:6*
The harvest -- We have entered into that period of time when the present
age is closing and the new age beginning. CR438:2, 308:1; R4891:4, 4635:6,
2277:6
There is a large crop of tares. R5769:3
The time of trouble coming upon the church should be recognized as the
harvest, the threshing time, the time for separating the real grain from
the chaff and tares. R576:2, 82:5*
The sign of the presence is the sign of the time of harvest. The worker
and the work are related to each other. R236:3*
There are many harvests as there are kinds of seed (1 Cor. 15:38-44), but
order governs all. R576:2
Many believe it began in 1874 and will end in 1914. R5363:4
Is the end -- Is that which constitutes the end. C24, 214; D568
The Greek word suntelia, translated "end," does not mean a "point," but a
"period of time." R236:3*
The last forty years of the Time of the End. C24; 121
As the Chart of the Ages illustrates, the harvest of this age and the end
of the evil world or dispensation terminate together. NS21:5
Just before the inauguration of the new age of Christ's Millennial
Kingdom. R4635:6
The regathering of Israel is a sign of the end of this age, and therefore
a sign that we are living in the harvest time. R384:5
No millennium in between is shown. HG272:4
Of the world -- Of this Gospel age. B15; C24, 121; D568; R5049:2, 2977:4
Of the age: Greek aion. CR251:2, 292:1; HG116:1
And the reapers -- Who have learned that it is harvest time and that
their work is gathering the wheat. F608
The Lord is sending forth more laborers continually, yet only such as
recognize the nighness of the Kingdom, the parousia of the King, and have
a zeal to tell the joyful tidings to others. R2674:3
Are the angels -- The messengers, begotten of his spirit. D601; A237;
R1279:2
Messengers, missionaries, saints of God. R885:3*
His servants. R2604:1
The Lord's followers now, just as a similar class were the reapers of the
Jewish harvest. C139
The "harvest message" is the Lord's sickle and all associated with the
promulgation of this message are reapers in this harvest, co-laborers with
the great Chief Reaper. R2490:4
Every faithful disciple who now follows in the Master's footsteps has the
privilege now of being a co-worker with him in reaping this harvest. R600:3
The Lord uses various human instrumentalities as his servants, messengers
or angels. R3771:1
Invisible, spiritual beings, quietly separating wheat from tares. R189:4,
175:5, 124:2
Matthew 13:40
Tares are gathered -- Our Lord would be present at the end of the Gospel
age and, as the Chief Reaper, would gather tares in bundles to be burned.
R5769:3
In the winter time: "Pray ye that your flight be not in the winter."
(Matt. 24:20) D578
Burned in the fire -- Destroyed as tares in a time of trouble; not
literally burned. R5737:1, 5049:4, 4636:4, 2277:5; CR251:3
Their delusions will be dissolved. R4636:4
Manifested to all, to the intent that all may thereafter profit by the
lesson, to all eternity. NS94:5
To occur within the harvest period. R1493:4
The fire already kindled, "the fire of God's zeal." C148
It is not the field, the "world," that is to be burned, but the tares.
NS21:5
Signifying the destruction of the false pretensions of this class. C146
In the sense that none of them thereafter will claim to be what they are
not, none of them will claim to be God's consecrated people. R2634:5;
SM287:T
And thus returned to the ground, the world, from whence they came. C140
That the entire field might be cleansed and made ready for a new sowing of
the pure seed. NS93:6
The end of this world -- End of this age. D568
Proving that the burning of the tares is included in the gospel harvest,
for "the harvest is the end of the age." (Verse 39) R115:6*, 98:4*
Matthew 13:41
The Son of man -- A title of high honor, a reminder of his obedience,

even to the death of the cross, by which he secured title to the honor,
dignity and power of the divine nature. E151
Christ, who once became a son (in law) of Adam. E150, 152
Shall send -- Christ is superintending the harvest; he sends forth the
reapers.
R223:5*
The Lord not only sends the sickle of truth to gather the wheat, but he
also sends the strong delusions to gather the tares. OV297:4; NS128:6
Forth his angels -- Servants or messengers, begotten of his spirit.
D601; A237; R1285:1*, 1279:2
Gather out of -- Or from. A239
Various errors gather out of God's Kingdom all that offend. R1644:5
In one sense, the wheat is gathered out from among the tares, because of
the greater abundance of the tares; in another sense, the tares are
gathered from the wheat. The wheat has the place by right; it is a wheat
field, not a tare field. C139
They shall be swept out by the incoming flood of infidelity, overthrown by
the winds of false doctrine, and finally burnt up by the scathing reproach
He has chosen to make the separation publicly, to demonstrate his own
justice in the matter. OV297:4
His kingdom -- The true Church. A239; R275:5
In the sense that the Church at the present time is God's Kingdom in
embryo. R4635:6, 1927:1
Harvest siftings are necessary, that the Judas class may be entirely
sifted out, and that the Peter class may be thoroughly stirred up by
trials and difficulties. R4908:4
It is one thing to gather his people out of Babylon, and quite another to
gather the offenders out of his Kingdom. Really the "tares" leave the
"wheat" by utterly abandoning the faith once delivered to the saints.
R2545:2
Things that offend -- Those who put off the wedding garment of Christ's
imputed righteousness. R2275:6
Those that cause others to stumble, including many teachers and preachers,
and many doers of wonderful works. R5049:4
Not only "those that do iniquity," the "tares," but also "those that
offend," those who fail to come up to the requirements of their covenant
in fullness of consecration. R2541:6
That are blameworthy; because they are in the nominal church and posing as
Christians. R4636:1
Realizing that this is a present activity, we cannot too carefully
consider the principles upon which this judgment and selection are made.
R1937:1
All organizations having the motive of hope of improvement deteriorate
rapidly into machines of aggrandizement of clique or class, owing to the
cupidity and sordidness of men. R1285:1*
Not that a man could not be a member of a union, but the position of
separateness from these human institutions and bondages is a safe position
for the saints. R1285:5
Which do iniquity -- Which practice sin, or which are not fully in
sympathy with the principles of righteousness. R2276:1, 5049:4
"Do lawlessness." (Diaglott) R1285:1*
The tare class, the great mass. R4635:6, 5802:1, 1644:5
The only things that shall remain are the things that cannot be shaken,
the true and faithful. R3053:1
Matthew 13:42
A furnace of fire -- A time of trouble destructive to the nominal

systems and false professions; occasioned in great measure by the growth
of infidelity and Spiritism of various kinds. A239; C146; R275:5
It would be thoroughly illogical to burn symbolic tares in a literal
furnace with literal fire. CR251:3; R5049:4, 4636:4
The fire is as much a symbol as are the tares, the wheat and the garner.
R2634:4, 2277:5
There is no such furnace for the wheat and tares all down through the
Gospel age. R3771:2
So-called Christendom will be the great furnace. R3771:4
Wailing -- There is such a commotion in connection with the separation
of the wheat and the tares because Christendom as a whole, though
nominally a wheat field, is practically a tare field. OV297:4; NS128:5
The saints won't have any of this weeping, wailing and gnashing of teeth,
because the plan of God will be so closely before them that they will
rejoice because the things occurring will presage their deliverance. Q733:T
Gnashing of teeth -- Great disappointment, sorrow, pain, trouble and
anguish throughout Christendom. R3771:4; Q732:2
"Men's hearts failing them for fear and for looking after those things
which are coming on the earth." (Luke 21:26) R3771:4 Signifying chagrin,
disappointment, savage animosity: "They gnashed on him with their teeth."
(Acts 7:54) R4329:1; Q732:2
The great time of trouble will make general havoc of present
arrangements--social, financial, political, ecclesiastical. R5802:4,
5864:1, 2303:5, 1644:5
Matthew 13:43
Then -- In the end of this Gospel age. SM790:2; R5769:3

We are in the dawn of the glorious day. It is not yet sunrise, the shining
forth of the Church; but the "Day Star," Jesus, has arisen in our hearts.
R470:6
The Lord links the fire upon the tare field with the speedy shining forth
thereafter of the Sun of Righteousness. R2760:6
After this age and after its harvest. R857:3
After "the wheat" of this age is gathered into the garner by the power of
the first resurrection. R5135:6, 6013:5, 5769:3, 5420:2, 4103:2, 2504:4;
CR19:1; SM561:T, 790:2
Shall the righteous -- The Church, as a whole, in glory. F725; R5135:6,
4988:2, 4967:5; SM287:T; HG417:3
Jesus is the head of the Church. SM791:T; R5097:3
When the division is accomplished, the wheat alone will represent the
Kingdom of the Church of Christ, while the church nominal will fall and be
broken. R593:4
Shine forth -- To refresh and bless the world by scattering the darkness
of sin, superstition and evil. R2425:5, 4849:6, 4636:4, 3770:6, 1012:4;
SM246:T
To abolish darkness. R4988:1, 4849:6
The manifestation, or appearing in glory; the descent of the new Jerusalem
as the Bride of Christ and mother of the nations. Light, deliverance and
glory to the nations will be the result. R82:5*; HG163:5, 234:6; NS252:3
Then shall the morning of the Millennial age be manifested to the world.
CR19:1
Be revealed, and be seen by men with the eyes of their understanding.
R2606:3
To heal earth's sorrows and scatter earth's night. R5135:6
To bless, restore, purify and disinfect from sin and error the whole world
of mankind. C149
To bring order out of present confusion, to scatter present darkness,
ignorance and superstition, to cause the knowledge of the glory of the
Lord to fill the whole earth. R3770:6
The consummation of the Church's hope in the end of this age. R4636:4
God gives light that it may shine that others may see and be blessed. To
shine can mean no less than to give light. And if the Church give, the
nations receive and "walk in the light of it." (Rev. 21:24) R25:2*
That true light will shine first upon the house of Jacob, returning to
them divine favor. Then the call will come to them, "Arise, shine, for thy
light is come." (Isa. 60:1) R2037:4
His Church is invited to become associated with Him as light-bearers; and,
if faithful in permitting their light to shine now, they will by and by be
parts of that great Sun of Righteousness. SM560:3; NS89:5
If unfaithful in shining forth under present conditions of prevalent
darkness, they will not be esteemed worthy to shine forth as the sun in
the Kingdom. HG438:6
God's plan will not always be shrouded in mystery. A86
"They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament [as the
sun]." (Dan. 12:3) R1881:6, 722:6; C61; F666; HG334:4 "The earnest
expectation of the creation waiteth for the manifestation of the Sons of
God." (Rom. 8:19) R6:2
As the sun -- Jesus is the true great Center of the Sun of
Righteousness; and the bride will be with him in the morning, shining
forth his glory. R5135:6, 5769:3, 4107:6, 3686:1, 2409:1; OV205:5;
PD59/70; Q822:1; SM244:1, 791:T
"The Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in his wings." (Mal.
4:2) R3686:1, 2834:1, 1311:5, 369:1; A322, 86; CR126:4
The great Sun of Righteousness, the great Messiah, the great Prophet,
Priest, King and Mediator between God and man. OV205:5
"The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light." (Isa. 9:2)
R3686:1
We are not now shining as the sun, but as candles. CR62:2; R5769:3; HG438:6
In the future state of glory, in contrast with its present role as a
lampstand. R3560:6
Collectively; but individually there will be differences in position and
honor: "as star differeth from star" in magnitude and brilliancy. (1 Cor.
15:41) F725
"The elect," burning and shining lights," are all to come together by and
by, all to be changed from human to spirit beings and, with their
Redeemer, constitute the great Sun of Righteousness. R3026:6
To heal earth's sorrows and scatter earth's night. R5135:6; NS173:3
Which shall scatter the darkness of earth, binding the prince of darkness,
Satan, and freeing mankind from the bonds of ignorance, superstition and
credulity. NS292:6, 810:2
For the scattering of the night, the scattering of darkness, superstition
and evil that now enshroud the world. HG116:3, 651:5; NS555:2, 614:2
Of their Father -- Primarily, the Kingdom is God's but he has
voluntarily, for a thousand years, placed it under charge of a viceroy,
the Christ. D642, 643
Ears to hear -- The attitude of heart to appreciate it. R4636:4, 2995:6;
CR126:5
The ability to understand spiritual things. R4636:4
Not everyone has the hearing ear. R4636:4
Let him hear -- We should not despise those who cannot hear, but rather
sympathize with them and be thankful for the hearing ear which permits us
to appreciate the various features of the divine plan. R3771:5
Matthew 13:44
The kingdom of heaven -- The Millennial Kingdom. R4535:3

Like unto treasure -- The Church and restored humanity. E441; D648;
R5047:6, 288:4, 16:1
The share in the Messianic Kingdom. R5048:1, 4635:5, 4535:3
Hid in a field -- "The field is the world." (Matt. 13:38) D648
Mankind and the earth itself. E441; D648; R281:4
The hiding of the treasure is necessary: "Cast not your pearls before
swine." (Matt. 7:6) "Hast thou faith? Have it to thyself before God."
(Rom. 14:22) R463:5
When a man -- The man Christ Jesus. R729:3, 720:1, 611:3
Our thought is that the Great Teacher referred not to himself, but to
those whom he instructed. R5047:6
The buyer is the Lord and those who accept his invitation to sacrifice
earthly interests. D648; R4636:5
All that he hath -- When our Lord had paid man's ransom price, he had
nothing left. "He poured out his soul unto death." (Isa. 53:12) R2410:1
Our Lord laid down the earthly kingdom, the earthly rights, all that he
had, as man's ransom. OV251:1; R4536:1, 1015:3
He took our human nature that he might give it as a ransom for all--his
human nature for our human nature. R611:3
When Jesus died at Calvary all existence was at an end. After three days
he received life as a new creature, but he took not again the human nature
and never can do so. R482:3, 240:3
Jesus could not have given a part of his being and retained part. R719:6
The Lord's followers are to reckon that no sacrifice is too great to
attain the blessing; indeed, the Kingdom can be attained at no less cost
than the surrender of all their earthly hopes and aims. HG439:1
To gain this treasure, we must give all--our time, our will, our property.
CR252:2; R4636:5
The price is small, but it is all that we each have to give--ourselves,
our all. R1657:1
Buyeth that field -- Realizing its value. R4636:5
The field belongs to God. He has put the treasure there. He offers it for
sale to any willing to pay the price--the Lord and those who accept his
invitation to join with him. R4636:5
Our Lord's payment of the price of justice. R4536:1
He did not buy the world, but the Church. R4536:2
In order to re-produce the human race lost in death through Adam. R729:3
The inference is that what we possess naturally is not of lasting value,
while that which we may obtain instead is of priceless value and
Matthew 13:45
Again -- This parable illustrates the process by which his Kingdom is

obtainable. R4535:6
Seeking -- Seeking imperishable values of not frittering away life and
its opportunities; seeking for the best things, and most valuable things,
temporal or spiritual. NS514:2
Goodly pearls -- In ancient times the pearl occupied the chief place
among the jewels of personal adornment. NS511:1
Those qualities and rewards, even of an earthly kind, which would be
enduring. NS514:5
All the other pearls--of being a great doctor, a great artist, a great
musician, a model house-keeper, or something else--are trifling and
insignificant in comparison with this great Pearl. Q428:4; SM681:2
We all seek something valuable for which to exchange time and influence.
Q429:2; SM681:2
Matthew 13:46
When he had found one -- Representing the Gospel offered as being

superior to all other propositions of the world. R4636:6
Pearl of great price -- Priceless, the finest he had ever seen. R4636:6;
CR426:4
The riches of God's grace. Q161:3
The Kingdom offer of joint-heirship with Jesus in the heavenly Kingdom,
and association with him in blessing all the families of the earth.
R4636:6, 5594:3, 5005:5; CR426:4, 244:4; Q429:1; HG746:2; SM681:1
Our high calling of God in Christ. OV24:5; CR365:5; R5198:6, 4969:4
The glorious Messianic Kingdom, the Kingdom of God, of priceless value.
CR426:4; R5484:4, 5270:3; Q427:5, 429:1
The prize first presented to our Lord; now set before us. R4535:3, 6
Whoever possesses this pearl will be in harmony with God. SM681:3
Sold all -- Jesus gave all he had, and he had far more than any of us.
Q429:2
Illustrating the feature of Jesus' work in the laying down of his life.
R4536:1
The price is self-sacrifice, even unto death. R5048:2
All who would gain this pearl must sell all that they have, all that they
enjoy of earthly life or privileges. R5342:1, 5048:2, 4636:6; PD59/70
Let us count the things of this earth as loss and dross that we may attain
this. R5422:4
Consecrate yourself, all you have. CR252:5; PD59/70
To buy we must consecrate and give--time, energy, study. Each day will
bring opportunities for giving up something considered by the selfish,
carnal nature to be precious. R1657:1
Whether a man be wealthy or poor, learned or ignorant, influential or
otherwise, the cost of this Kingdom pearl will be his all; it cannot be
had for less. R5048:2; SM683:1
If seeking the Kingdom seems to hinder some of our earthly prospects, so
much the better. The Master said it would cost us our all. R5048:5
He that is not willing to have the Kingdom at such a cost is not worthy of
Some of the earthly treasures can be relinquished in the interest of the
heavenly treasures. SM684:T
Bought it -- Our Lord's payment of the price of justice. R4536:1
The terms for us are: Self-sacrifice, faithfulness to God at any cost,
patient endurance under adverse conditions. R5461:6
Only those who walk the "narrow way" will gain the great prize. R5005:5
To purchase it, we must submit ourselves fully to the Lord, henceforth to
have no will of our own in anything--to suffer reproach, scorn,
persecution, loss of friends, tribulations. SM683:1
The number who will obtain this pearl is limited, only 144,000, and is now
very nearly complete. SM684:1
We shall gain the Pearl of Great price in the Kingdom. SM685:3
Matthew 13:47
Kingdom of heaven -- The nominal Christian church. C214

As it exists in its incipient and imperfect stage in this age--which, in
its widest sense, is the nominal Christian church. R920:1
The embryo Kingdom during the Gospel age. R5048:2, 5555:1
This parable is applicable to the close of the Gospel age. C213
Is like unto -- Not like a net; but the embryo Kingdom resembles a
fishing experience with a net. R5048:2
A net -- The Gospel message. R4637:1
Representing the nominal church of this present time. HG438:6
That was cast -- First cast at Pentecost, and from then to the present
harvest time it has been gathering in all sorts of fish, together
constituting the great nominal Gospel church. R1716:1, 920:1
Into the sea -- The world. C214
The world, where no distinction was recognized between Jew and Gentile.
R1716:1
And gathered -- "I will make you fishers of men." (Matt. 4:19) C214;
R5555:2
Of every kind -- Real Christians, half-deceived and deluded Christians,
and multitudes of hypocrites. C214
Some fish are in the Gospel net, looking for worldly ambitions, matrimony,
social standing, moral atmosphere, as a cloak for business, etc. R5048:4
"So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all,
as many as they found, both bad and good." (Matt. 22:10) R2301:4
Not every kind will inherit the Kingdom as joint-heirs with Christ Jesus.
R4637:1
Matthew 13:48
When it was full -- When in the fullness of God's time the full number
of the particular kind desired had entered the net. C214, 215
At the end of the Gospel age. R5555:1
They -- The fishermen, the Lord's people. C214; R5555:1
Drew to shore -- Withdrew the invitation to a place in the Kingdom. C214
Sat down -- Not to dive again into the sea, either with net or hook and
line, to gather more fish. R920:2
And gathered -- Separated, divided. C214; D600
"Come out of her, my people." (Rev. 18:4) D601
The catching and the sorting are two parts of the one grand work of making
ready a people prepared for the Lord, corresponding to the works of the
sower and the reaper. R1716:4
In the harvest, from 1874 to 1915, a separating work is to be
Into vessels -- The special work of harvest is the gathering of the good
fish into safety, rather than to catch more fish. R1716:4
Cast the bad away -- As unsuitable for a place in the Kingdom. C214;
R5555:1, 2, 4637:1
Corresponds with the tares of Matt. 13:30. The unsuitable fish in the net
are all church members. The unprofessing world are not represented in the
parable at all. R5048:5
They are not fit for the purpose of the present selection, undeveloped,
not overcomers of the world, but are overcome by the world. R920:5
The Lord has not been fishing for all kinds of fish; he has not been
seeking all kinds of people; he has been drawing especially only the
elect, the saintly. R5048:4
The Great Fisherman has no special use for any more or other than one kind
of fish now; by and by the "abundance of the sea shall be converted."
(Isa. 60:5) R920:2
During Christ's Millennial reign, these will be dealt with. R4637:1
Matthew 13:49
End of the world -- The end of this age, a sifting and separating time.
R4637:1; C214
"The harvest is the end of the age." (Matt. 13:39) C214
When the Lord shall have gathered the foreordained number of the elect
Church. R5048:4
The wicked -- But some of the true children of God will also be rejected
and get into the wailing and gnashing of teeth condition because they have
assimilated with the worldly-minded. R920:5
Matthew 13:50
Furnace of fire -- The great time of trouble. R5048:5, 4637:1

Gnashing of teeth -- "Gnawing their tongues in pain." (Rev. 16:10) R920:5
Symbolically expressing the vexation and anger of those in whom the truth
only awakens a spirit of opposition and hatred. R920:4
See comments on Matt. 13:42
Matthew 13:52
Like unto a man -- Our Lord and Master has come to his waiting people
and spread out for them a bounteous table of truths, new and old, in
order. R1867:5
Which bringeth forth -- Through his servants, who have the keys. R1150:5
Feeding the flock; not feeding themselves upon the husks of science and
man-made theology. R633:2
Out of his treasure -- Considering his parables as a householder would
consider his reserve of food supplies from which, time to time, truths
"both new and old" would be brought. R5048:5
Things new and old -- Some things old and good might be brought forth
from the sectarian creeds, but nothing new. A24
That which our Lord said he would serve at his second coming. R5568:6
New things respecting the glory of the Kingdom and the work of the
thousand years. R5568:6
Clearer light on old things: justification, sanctification, the types of
Leviticus, baptism, etc. R5568:6, 5569:1
Respecting the covenants and the atonement sacrifices. R4434:2
Features of God's plan unseen since the days of the Apostles. R4434:2
Contained in the Studies in the Scriptures. R4710:1
Not only expounding the hidden truths of ancient prophecy, but also
disclosing new revelations of truth. F233
Able to see the new features of his work as well as the old whenever the
new features become due; not rejecting the new because they are new. R920:2
Old things that God's people have recognized as true for centuries: note
how appetizing they are to us now, how strengthening to faith, how
refreshing! R4043:4
The new truth must always be in harmony with the old truths. R116:3*
A new point of interpretation must have the assent of at least two of the
best posted and most conversant with the Scriptures before it appears in
our journal. R312:3
The reason for the present abundance of truth for the hungry ones is that
we are again living in the "days of the Son of Man." NS155:4
Matthew 13:54
He taught them -- As a public teacher he had no equal. What other

teacher ever had 5,000 people leave their employment and, negligent of
food, follow him for three days in the wilderness. R575:2
Whence hath -- His humble birth gave him none of the advantages of
education or social culture. R1682:1
True, also to some extent of those who follow Jesus' footsteps. When the
Lord sends you out, you will know it; you will be so filled with the
knowledge of the truth and so inspired by it that you must speak. R646:6
This wisdom -- Due to his ages of prehuman existence. E91
Matthew 13:57
In his own country -- Human nature esteems that which is distant as

grander. R3494:2, 2424:6
Matthew 13:58
Because of their unbelief -- And hardness of heart; therefore, they lost

the benefit of his wisdom and teaching and many of his mighty works.
R1359:3
Matthew 14
Matthew 14:1
Herod -- Antipas. R3325:3

A type of the civil power. R5569:5, 2280:4; B261
The fame of Jesus -- The popularity of Jesus did not evidently become so
general until after John's death. R3326:1
Matthew 14:2
This is John -- Wondering whether or not there might be some truth in

the Grecian theories that the dead were not dead, but had power to
communicate through living persons. R3326:1
Risen from the dead -- His mind was troubled, yet he was not penitent.
R3326:1
Tradition has it that Herod was taunted with fear. R4609:5
Matthew 14:3
Herod -- Representing the civil power. R5569:5, 1754:4; B261, 262

John -- Type of the true Church. B261
John was a semi-type, the semi-antitype of Elijah, who was a type of the
Church. R5569:5; B253
As there is a striking resemblance between John and Elijah, his type, so
there is a strong resemblance between the experiences of John and those of
the faithful Church--the great antitype of Elijah. R3325:3, 2279:2, 968:4
And bound him -- After he had preached about a year. R3325:2
Typifying the coming restraint of the church's liberties. B261; R2280:5
John's liberty was restrained soon after the delivery of the message
announcing the present One and the work before him. B261; R968:6
Put him in prison -- Josephus supposes that he was confined in a dungeon
connected with the castle Macherus. R3325:2
There he remained about a year before execution. R3325:2
For Herodias' sake -- Type of the Roman Catholic Church. R5569:5
The unfaithful nominal church. B261, 262; R2280:4
Governed by boundless ambition, she realized her position insecure so long
as John lived. R4609:1,2
Type of the ecclesiastical power of Christendom now seeking and longing
for union with, and the co-operation of, the civil powers. R1754:4
Representing the nominal church which, throughout the symbolic Scriptures,
is represented by a woman, Jezebel, etc. R2280:4
The second Jezebel; the third Jezebel is mentioned by name in Rev. 2:20.
R3326:6
Two strong and two weak characters meet here. John and Herodias were
strong characters, the one for the right and for God, the other for
selfish ambition and sinful indulgence of it. R4609:5
Evidently she strove to incite her husband to put John to death at the
time he was imprisoned; but her influence was offset by Herod's fear of
the effect of such a course upon the people who esteemed John to be a
prophet. R3325:6
Women are naturally more sentimental than men. If they become evil-minded
and vicious, they are correspondingly disposed to even greater extremes of
wickedness than their brothers. R2279:6
Philip's wife -- She had married Philip, thinking he would be king.
R4609:1, 3325:5
Matthew 14:4
For John said -- Perhaps acting imprudently and exceeding his duty.
R3326:2, 4609:1, 2280:2
He was a thorn in the side of King Herod and his courtiers. R4609:1
As a rule, we believe it to be the wiser plan for Christian ministers to
speak forth the word of God fearlessly without attempting personal
application. R4609:1, 2280:4
It is not the duty of the Lord's people to go through the world rebuking
sin, but preaching the Gospel. R3326:3
Paul, personally before Agrippa, Felix and other disreputable men, made no
personal attack upon them. R3326:2
Perhaps typical of the duty of the true church to reprove the civil powers
as well as the nominal church systems, and to declare their union
unlawful, contrary to the Word of God. R2280:4, 1754:4
The true church, like its prototype, John the Baptist, will be unpopular
and restrained of liberty because of faithfulness in opposing and
condemning the error of the union of church with state. R969:1
Persecution should not lead us to surrender when the kings of the earth
stand up with the religious rulers of the people against us and God's
truth. R969:5
It is not lawful -- Declaring that Herod and his wife were living in
adultery, the king separated from his own wife and improperly associated
with his brother Philip's wife. R3325:5, 2279:5
For thee to have her -- For church and state to be united. B261
The nominal church adulterously allied to the kingdoms of this world while
nominally espoused to Christ. R3325:3
Prophecy points out that a closer union between church and state than at
present [is possible]. B262; R969:1
Matthew 14:5
He feared -- But Herodias feared neither God nor man. R5069:1

The multitude -- The common people, who heard Jesus and John gladly.
R4609:1 A prophet -- A public expounder. A55
Matthew 14:6
Birthday was kept -- On such occasions it was customary to have great

hilarity and to use intoxicating beverages with more than usual freedom.
R3325:6
Wine was in plentiful supply. She well knew that the wine would inflame
the passions and relax the moral tone of the company. R4609:2, 3325:6
Daughter of Herodias -- By her former marriage. R3325:6 Salome, a type
of the Protestant churches federated. R5569:5, 2280:5
Matthew 14:8
Being before instructed -- The plan succeeded to the letter. R4609:2,

3778:6
Of her mother -- Illustrating parental influence. Evil as she was,
Herodias had retained the affection of her daughter and her absolute
confidence and obedience. R3326:4
A true, pure, sensible mother has an almost untellable influence, for good
or for evil, with her husbands and sons, as well as with her daughters.
R2280:1
Said -- While the flush of excitement and liquor was upon him, and while
his counselors were present who had heard the oath, before whom any
indecision would stultify himself. R3326:5
Baptist's head -- They would cease to have his continual reminder of
their wrong course. R5569:6
Evidently thinking that, with the prophet out of the way, all other
advantages were accessible to herself and her daughter. R3326:5
Without John's death, Herodias and Salome might any day be hurled from
conditions of affluence into the abyss of degradation and poverty. R4609:4
So fully in sympathy with Catholicism, United Protestantism will become
her tool in the destruction of the most loyal servants of God. R2280:5
In a charger -- On a platter. R4609:4
Matthew 14:9
King was sorry -- His conscience was not quite dead. R4609:4
We may be sure that his mind was frequently disturbed with the thought of
his injustice, and that against one of the Lord's favorites, a prophet.
R3326:1
We are not to infer from this any heart-repentance, but merely that the
matter was incongruous to his sentiments and wishes. R2280:2
People do things which they recognize to be wrong, violating their
conscience, and feel sorry; yet this is not a godly sorrow, for the sorrow
God recognizes and appreciates leads to repentance. R3326:2
The oath's sake -- "The fear of man bringeth a snare." (Prov. 29:25)
R4609:4
"Highly esteemed among men but an abomination in the sight of God." (Luke
16:15) R3779:1
For pride's sake. R3779:1, 4609:4, 2280:2
He commanded it -- A course which led to his banishment, in which
Herodias shared. R4609:5, 3326:5
Matthew 14:10
Beheaded John -- The close of the earthly career of the true church is
represented in Elijah's whirlwind and John the Baptist's imprisonment and
beheading. R969:5
So when the coming night imprisons the faithful elect, the only
deliverance will be through the valley of the shadow of death into the
glorious kingdom of our Lord and Savior. R1754:5
Matthew 14:12
His disciples -- Doubtless at the present time the vengeance of the

antitypical Jezebel upon the antitypical Elijah will move the friends of
the Elijah class, including the Great Company, more closely to the Lord.
R3327:4
And told Jesus -- They knew where to find sympathy and consolation. To
whom shall we go with trials, difficulties, sorrows, troubles,
disappointments?. R3327:1
Doubtless becoming his disciples. Thus their trials in connection with
their leader brought them into closer knowledge and fellowship with the
Great Teacher. R3327:1
Matthew 14:13
He departed thence -- For private meditation and conference with his

disciples, who would be greatly agitated by the news of John's death and
needed his calming influence and assurance that Herod could have no
unpermitted power over them. R2435:2
Possibly to avoid Herod's interfering with his labors, possibly fearing
that his teachings would incite a rebellious spirit, possibly seeking
privacy with his disciples to consider the character of his work. R3332:3,
1754:2
Desert place apart -- Out of the dominion of Herod. R3332:2, 2435:3,
1754:3
Near Bethsaida. R2435:3
Matthew 14:14
A great multitude -- In some respects, picturing the world during the

Millennium. R3781:4
Evidence of his growing popularity. R3332:3
The crowds continued to gather wherever Jesus went, partly for hearing,
partly from curiosity, and partly because the message he gave was one of
comfort, consolation, hope. R5095:2
The largeness of the company is accounted for by the fact that it was near
the time of the Feast of Passover and large numbers of the religiously
inclined were on their pilgrimage to Jerusalem. R2435:3
Moved with compassion -- In season and out of season, so far as his
convenience was concerned, he must work the works of God, lay down his
life, inch by inch, hour by hour. R3332:3
He is today looking with sympathetic compassion upon the multitudes of
so-called "Christendom." R2436:1
Such will be the spirit of all the Lord's followers; not
self-gratification, but "doing good to all men as they have opportunity,
especially to the household of faith." (Gal. 6:10) R2435:4
Matthew 14:15
Evening -- After three o'clock in the afternoon, in the early evening.

R3332:6
A desert place -- Tell the good tidings, no matter in what form they
must be presented, no matter how intolerable the conditions. The important
thing is that some are hungry for the truth and the Lord will bless us in
ministering it to them. R3333:5
Buy themselves victuals -- The people seem to have been so entranced
with the good tidings that they entirely forgot their own necessities.
R2435:5
Matthew 14:16
Give ye them to eat -- There was a seeming necessity for the miracle.
R4617:2
Before sending them away he instructs all his disciples to supply them
with something to eat--spiritual food, truths pertaining to the kingdom,
affording strength and encouragement for the dark hour of trouble ahead.
R2436:1,4; NS123:5
We should be ready at any time to distribute our store of truth; whenever
anyone is hungering and thirsting after righteousness. R3333:5
If they do not get spiritual food, they will faint by the way as they go
looking for other provisions. We have the very thing which all the
household of faith needs. R3334:1
Matthew 14:17
But five loaves -- It was Andrew who returned with word that a lad of
the company had five loaves and two small fishes which he put at their
disposal. R3333:1
A lesson also respecting the spiritual food, that we should not despise
the day of small things. R3333:5
We may feel that the multitude is large and that the means at our disposal
for reaching them with the bread of life are limited. R3333:5
It requires faith to go forth and to hope to accomplish the great harvest
work under present limited conditions. R3333:6
And two fishes -- The Lord takes our time and talents, little and
unworthy as these are, and blesses them and uses them in his service, and
accomplishes great things. R3780:5
Matthew 14:19
The five loaves -- About the size of our large buns and made of the
entire wheat, ground. R5104:5
And the two fishes -- We object to the claim of special sanctity and
acceptableness with God on account of a purely vegetable diet. R3098:3
He blessed -- The giving of thanks did indeed give a blessing upon the
food. R3780:6
It is incomprehensible how any consecrated Christian dare neglect to
render thanks for his daily food. Mere outward formalistic acts of piety
by others, however, are not pleasing to God. R2643:6, 2644:2
To his disciples -- Possibly the increasing continued at the hands of
the apostles as they in turn distributed the food to the people. R3333:1
Those who now follow the Lord as his special disciples will, in the
Millennial age, be supplied abundantly with the bread of life, and be
privileged to distribute it to all the families of the earth. R3781:4
He could have fed the multitude without their help. R2644:4
We now have the privilege of being co-workers in the dissemination of the
harvest message. R2644:4
Matthew 14:20
They did all eat -- A lesson of divine power; also, that Jesus was the
Son of God, through whom that power was exercised. R4617:6
The Lord's miracles of feeding and healing were performed not upon his
consecrated disciples, but upon others, his followers having covenanted to
share with him in the work of sacrifice. R1754:6
Exemplifying the coming power and glory of the great King of the world,
who is to bless, feed and and uplift the race of Adam. R3333:3
And were filled -- If we lived more on the plain substantials of life,
we would know when we had enough. R3781:4
Skeptics who deny this miracle cannot deny that this grain and these
fishes could, in due time, by natural methods, have brought forth enough
to feed this multitude. R3333:2
They took up -- Those who receive of the Lord's bounty should be none
the less appreciative of it, and careful of its use. R2435:5
We are not to waste spiritual privileges because they are free gifts;
rather we are to prize every spiritual morsel and gather up in store for
future needs of ourselves and others. R2435:6
Of the fragments -- Not the fragments left by the multitude, but those
broken by the Lord and not yet distributed. R3781:4
The Master displayed frugality and encouraged economy on the part of his
followers. R5104:5
Twelve baskets full -- Haversacks, in which the 12 apostles carried
their provisions; a good supply for further necessities. R2435:5
It was those who scattered to others who had their own haversacks full in
the end, those who are most intent upon feeding others the bread of life
are themselves most bountifully supplied. R3504:2, 2436:4
So that none of God's provision for his people might be wasted. R3333:3
The memory is our "basket" in which we are to gather up in store for
ourselves and others every spiritual morsel. R2435:6
Matthew 14:21
About five thousand men -- Yet at the time of his temptation he refused
to miraculously appease his own hunger. F650; R1063:2*
Arranged in 100 groups of 50 in the form of a three-sided square, after
the shape of a Roman reclining table, the disciples passing in at the open
side were thus able to reach the entire company. R3333:1
By reason of having received the holy Spirit, Jesus had power to do
anything that might be necessary in God's service. Q495:2
Matthew 14:22
Get into a ship -- To expedite the dispersion of the multitude. R2649:3

To go before him -- To give them opportunity to think over the miracle,
and talk it over by themselves in his absence. R3333:5
Unto the other side -- Back to Galilee, Herod's territory, evidencing
the fact that our Lord's conference with his disciples had a pacifying and
strengthening effect on them. R2435:3
Matthew 14:23
A mountain apart -- Pray in secret. R5379:6*

To pray -- The Lord frequently spent whole nights in prayer. R1863:5
For the refreshment of his own zeal, for the keeping warm of his own love
and devotion, which was the basis of his consecration. R2649:6
We cannot come too often. R1865:3
Nearly all the Great Teacher's recorded prayers are simple and brief.
Whenever he wished to make long prayers, he went to the Father alone.
R5095:3
He was there alone -- Even his beloved disciples, not having been
begotten of the Spirit, could not enter into fellowship with him in
respect to spiritual things, nor appreciate the trials which came to him
as a perfect man. R2649:6
Though he sometimes prayed with the disciples in their hearing, he was not
content with these opportunities, but frequently sought the Father alone.
R2649:3
There are times when we love to join our hearts and voices with others at
the throne of grace, and there are other times when we need individual,
personal, private communion with God. R3333:4
Matthew 14:24
But the ship -- Representing the experiences of the Lord's true church.
R2650:3
Was now -- Throughout the Gospel age. R2650:4
During the darkness of the nighttime which precedes the Millennial dawn,
there will be storms and difficulties arising which would overwhelm us
without the Lord's aid. R2650:3
Tossed with waves -- Representing the great storm of trouble and
persecution, against which the true church has been obliged to contend.
R2650:4; SM748:T
"We wrestle not against flesh and blood [merely], but against
principalities, against powers." (Eph. 6:12) R2650:4
The wind was contrary -- The great adversary, through the anti-Christ
and many less anti-Christs, has aroused, all through the Gospel age, a
great storm against the Lord's faithful few. R2650:4
Matthew 14:25
In the fourth watch -- Between three and six in the morning. R2650:2
In the early dawn of the Millennial day. B191; R2650:4
"God shall help her early in the morning." (Psa. 46:5) R2650:4
Jesus went -- Typifying the second advent of the Lord. B191
Unto them -- Typifying the church in the flesh in this harvest time. B191
Walking on the sea -- Typifying the stormy sea of the world's
unparalleled trouble. B191
The manner of his coming was different from what had been expected. R2650:4
Storms and trials have beset the church collectively all through the
journey from Pentecost until now. In the morning watches he has appeared.
SM748:1
Individually we have such experiences. The Lord for a time permits the
storms of life to assault us. Then he manifests himself, and the storms no
longer cause us dread and fear. SM748:T
Matthew 14:26
It is a spirit -- They supposed it to be an apparition, a spirit

manifestation in human form, walking on the water. R5095:3
Thinking they had seen a supernatural being and that it foreboded some
calamity. R2650:2
Matthew 14:27
Be of good cheer -- It helped the disciples later to remember how the

Master came to them on the troubled sea and brought peace and quiet.
R5095:5
It is the privilege of those who are fully consecrated to the Lord to be
cheerful, happy, even in the midst of unsatisfactory and painful
conditions. R4592:4, 2083:5, 1949:5
Cheerfulness is one of the loveliest graces of the Christian character.
R1123:2*
Be not afraid -- They were all affrighted until thus reassured. R4618:2
"All things work together for good to them that love God." (Rom. 8:28)
R1607:5, 5058:6
See also comments on John 6:20.
Matthew 14:28
And Peter -- Representing those who now believe the Lord is present.
R2650:4
Answered him -- Showing both the strength and weakness of Peter's
natural disposition: noble and courageous, but rather forward and
boastful. R4618:1
Bid me come unto thee -- Peter had the wonderful courage to make the
effort. R5095:6
Perhaps rashly. SM748:1
Matthew 14:29
And he said, Come -- "Come out of her, my people." (Rev. 18:4) C167
Walked on the water -- By the same power that enabled him and the other
disciples to heal the sick and cast out demons. R4618:2
Matthew 14:30
Afraid -- His faith failed. R5095:6

The same Peter who later drew his sword and smote the servant of the High
Priest in his Master's defense; yet, only a few hours later, denied him
with oaths and cursing. R4618:1
Beginning to sink -- While Peter's faith was stronger than that of the
others, and of ours today, it was not strong enough. R4618:2
As the Lord found no fault with St. Peter for his efforts, we are bound to
admire the degree of faith and courage which he manifested. R5096:1
When conviction of unworthiness becomes deep-seated, the heart is most
likely to cry unto the Lord for deliverance from darkness. R4618:4
Matthew 14:31
Stretched forth his hand -- Our Lord's help of Peter corresponds to that
greater help from death for the whole world; and of a helping hand to
God's children now. R4618:5
The same arm supports them well who now come out of Babylon. C167
To all who cry unto the Savior for deliverance from sin and death, he
lends a helping hand. R4618:4
All God's people, like Peter, would like to do some wonderful thing to
show their faith; and often they would utterly fail, did not the Lord
interpose for their rescue. R5095:6
So all of the faithful now will need the Master's hand stretched to their
relief; otherwise they would sink in discouragement because of lack of
faith. R2650:5
He will not reproach for sins repented of; rather, he will say, Why did
you not come sooner? I was quite willing to aid you as soon as you cried.
R4618:4
O thou of little faith -- Had his faith continued, he would have been
sustained. R5095:6, 4618:2
The Lord's rule with his people seems to be, "According to thy faith be it
unto thee." R5095:6
Peter made a mirror of his mistakes and thus, learning to know himself
more particularly, he was safeguarded through the many dangers natural to
his temperament. R5096:1
Matthew 14:32
The wind ceased -- The lesson of the occasion being ended. R4618:2
All the storms and billows of trouble and persecution which may impede and
weary us are amenable to his control. R2650:3
If the miracle of the loaves illustrated his power to protect his people
from want, this manifested that his power is able to preserve his people
in the storms, difficulties and trials of life. R2650:3 When the Lord has
joined himself to his church, the trials, storms and difficulties will be
at an end, and the desired haven of the heavenly condition will have been
reached. R2650:5
Matthew 14:33
Worshipped him -- Realizing afresh that he was the Son of God in power;
that even the winds and the waves obeyed him. R4618:2
The Son of God -- If the Son of God, he is true; and if he is true, then
all the exceeding great and precious promises which he left for us may be
relied upon, built upon, anchored into. R2650:6
Matthew 14:36
Touched the hem -- God's consecrated people have realized a spiritual

blessing as Jesus passed their way, and by faith they touched him. R5096:4
Realizing him to be the Son of the highest. R5096:5
Matthew 15
Matthew 15:1
Scribes and Pharisees -- They would have been glad to have recognized
him as a Pharisee and do his mighty works in the name of Pharasaism, but
his attitude was that of an independent. R3786:2
Prophesying, in the ordinary sense of teaching, afterward became popular
with a certain class, and degenerated into Pharisaism. A55
Matthew 15:3
Transgress the commandment -- Make void the law of God. NS843:2
Matthew 15:6
He shall be free -- The commandment had been changed by the Talmud and
any man might be free from all obligations to his parents by consecrating
himself and substance to God. R5096:6
None effect -- Null and void, which they had no right to do. R5096:6
By your tradition -- Teaching as commandments of God what are really the
traditions of men. OV159:T; Q747:2
Similarly, both Catholics and Protestants are teaching traditions of the
"Dark Ages" instead of the Word of God. OV159:T; NS762:5
Every creed tends to take the place of the Bible, just as the Talmud does
with the Jews. R5298:5
The theories and opinions that had been formed and handed down from the
past, that were not based upon the inspired testimony of the Prophets.
Q747:2
As found in the Systematic Theology volumes of Christendom and in the
Talmud of the Jews, teaching for doctrine the precepts of men. D64; HG716:4
Handed down through all the creeds of Christendom; the doctrine of
Purgatory being a little less unreasonable than the creeds of Protestants.
NS763:1
The traditions of men are unreliable, and from these come the errors which
hinder the proper understanding of the Scriptures. NS301:3
Satan could not get Israel to forsake the law, so he took the opposite
course and, by multiplying the forms and ceremonies of religion, he
satisfied their consciences, while he blinded them to the true meaning of
the Law. R525:5
The traditions of men speak fear of the Almighty who, they say, has
already sent to eternal torment the vast majority of our relatives,
friends and neighbors. NS762:4
There are true traditions (Gal. 1:14; 2 Thess. 2:15) and false traditions.
Their harmony with the Divine Word determines which are true and which are
false. Q747:2,1
Matthew 15:7
Ye hypocrites -- Hypocritically pretending to make a covenant with the

Lord, pretending to be his people. Their punishment will be greater
because of their hypocrisy; nevertheless, it will be with a view to their
recovery and not their destruction. HG684:5
Matthew 15:8
Draweth nigh unto me -- There never was a time when Jewish laws and
ordinances were more faithfully observed than during that harvest--every
form, ceremony and tithe was scrupulously remembered; the Temple of Herod
was their grandest, and missionary enterprises were on foot for Judaizing
the world. R235:1
The outward show and splendor of civilization called Christendom is, in
many respects, impressive. SM245:1
With their mouth -- It would be better not to approach the Lord at all
than to do so in an improper manner. R5480:1
A Christian should not say prayers, but should pray. He should not think
of saying even one word that he does not mean and has not thought out.
R5480:1 With what carefulness should we take upon us his worthy name!
R1527:6
"Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain." (Ex. 20:7)
R1527:2
"Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity." (2
Tim. 2:19) R1527:3
Their heart is far -- Few indeed apply their hearts unto instruction;
yet, without the least hesitation, multitudes take the name of God and of
Christ in vain. R1528:5
The Lord regards anything short of simple candor and honesty of heart with
aversion. R1527:6
The command of chief love should be in our hearts. If so, love for God
will permeate everything. R4052:3
Matthew 15:9
In vain do they worship -- The difficulty is that these improper

worshippers have such a wrong fear of God that they cannot love him and
hence cannot draw nigh to him with their heart. NS762:3
Teaching for doctrines -- What gross and hideous doctrines have not
shielded themselves under the name Christian, vainly taken? R1528:5
The commandments of men -- Thereby opposing the truth and becoming false
prophets or false teachers. A55
Their own dreams, imaginings, or the dreams of their forefathers, in
neglect of the Word of God. OV158:6
The traditions of men, the propagation of men's theories, the advancement
of denominational interests. R5631:1
Through sectarian creeds and catechisms. The result of even mixing truth
with error is confusion--Babylon. R442:5 For their own erroneous doctrines
they have claimed divine authorship; their words are not acceptable to God
because they have not submitted themselves to his plans and methods.
R3647:6
Matthew 15:13
Hath not planted -- The true Church, the New Creation, is of the
Father's planting. Our Lord says, "I am the Vine, ye are the branches."
(John 15:1-6) F207
Shall be rooted up -- "And the angel thrust his sickle into the earth
and gathered the vine of the earth." (Rev. 14:19) F207
Matthew 15:14
Let them alone -- Special light in both harvests is for the Israelites
indeed. B28
Corresponds to the command, "Come out of her my people, that ye be not
partakers of her sins." (Rev. 18:4) R718:3
Blind leaders -- Bewildered leaders of human thought. R5468:2
These words, though applied by Jesus to the Jewish house, were also
intended to apply to that of which it was a shadow, the Gospel house.
R718:3
Blinded by Satan who, by mixture of dishonoring falsehoods with their
little truth, conceals the grandest elements of the divine nature. R525:5
Illustrated by the prophet in likening them to "blind watchmen" (Isa.
56:10); not for lack of natural vision so necessary to watchmen, but of
mental perception--"they are ignorant" of the character and purposes of
God. R718:3
The Master denounced the religious hypocrites of his time as greater
sinners than murderers and thieves. OV390:1
The body of the ministry today has sadly fallen. R5631:5
The end of the Gospel dispensation would be characterized by general
declension in religion, especially by the falling of pastors or teachers
from the truth. R718:3
Of the blind -- The blindness will continue upon fleshly Israel until
the Gospel church is completed. (Rom. 11:25) R2615:4
In the coming age, their blindness shall be taken away, their pride shall
be humbled, and then shall they seek Him whom, with wicked hands, they had
crucified and slain. R606:6 Lead the blind -- By the tendency to depart
from God's Word. R1717:1
Both shall fall -- While the most influential, who betray their trust as
stewards, are the greatest sinners in Zion, those who blindly follow their
leading become partakers of their sin (Rev. 18:4) and share the same
penalty. R1875:1
Into the ditch -- Into the ditch of general doubt and unbelief here, as
their prototypes did in the trouble which closed the Jewish age. R2948:1,
2615:3, 2036:1, 1792:3
The pit (Diaglott). R718:3
Because Jesus was a "stone of stumbling and a rock of offense to both the
houses of Israel" (Isa. 8:14)--the fleshly and the spiritual house. R862:5
The Federated Protestant "image" will fall into the ditch of anarchy.
R4690:3
Matthew 15:21
Then Jesus went -- With the people discussing the wisdom of making him
king, with Herod's boldness manifested in the beheading of John, and with
the realization that his time had not yet come, he left the parts where he
was so well known. R3786:1
Into the coasts of -- Into parts of Galilee which bordered upon Tyre and
Sidon. R2280:3, 3786:2
Not into the countries themselves, for they were Gentile countries. He was
still in Israel, in Galilee, but over toward the border of Tyre and Sidon.
R2280:3
Tyre and Sidon -- Within the boundary of the land called Phoenicia.
R3786:1
Populated largely by Carthaginians and Syrians. R3786:6
Matthew 15:22
Woman of Canaan -- Not an Israelite, therefore "without God and having

no hope in the world." (Eph. 2:12) R2653:2, 4627:1
Of Syrian ancestry, by education and language a Greek. In a word, she
represented quite a mixture of nationalities, a Gentile out and out.
R3786:6
Cried unto him -- In a loud voice, and probably with weeping. R2653:2
Not only overcoming the prejudices of her own heathen ideas, but also
everything akin to pride and the fear of being rejected as one unworthy of
the favor she sought. R2653:2
As a poor and uneducated woman she would naturally have great diffidence
in approaching a learned man, especially one so notable as this great
Prophet of Israel. R2653:2
Have mercy on me -- Jesus ignored the petition. R4627:1
Thou son of David -- "The Lord shall give him the throne of his father
The long-promised king of David's line, the Messiah. E130; C257; SM210:2
Grievously vexed -- In danger of entirely losing reason. R4627:5
A devil -- A fallen angel. It is a great and important truth that many
humans are more or less obsessed by evil spirits--demons. R4627:5
In a sense, all sin and sickness are afflictions of the devil, the result
of Satan's lie. R4627:5
Matthew 15:23
Not a word -- Perhaps the delay was in order to consider well the path
of duty, the work which the Father had given him to do. R2280:3
To test the woman's faith as well as to manifest to others, then and
since. R2280:3
We consider it not unreasonable to suppose that he thoroughly understood
the case from the beginning and adopted the method he did to draw out her
faith. R2653:3
To many, this would have been sufficient to have discouraged faith and
sent them away weeping. R2653:2
How apt the majority are to speak and act without one moment's thought
respecting the will of the Father. R2280:6
How different in our case! We, who were once aliens, have, upon making a
covenant, been adopted into the Lord's family. We need not importune for
favors; they are ours for the taking. R2653:6
If, in our case, the Lord see not best to grant a prompt response, we may
be sure it is not from lack of interest in our welfare. At the very
latest, by the Millennial kingdom, deliverance will be granted, not only
to us, but to all mankind. R2653:4
With us, too, we may see that it will be better if he should for a time
ignore our petitions, that thus we might become more earnest and perhaps
increase our faith. R3787:4
Besought him -- Whether from sympathy or from vexation because she was
interrupting their opportunity for study and communion with the Lord we
cannot judge. R2280:6
Send her away -- Grant her request, and let her go away. R2280:6, 2653:3
Crieth after us -- Her importuning of the disciples would imply that Jesus
had left the house. R3787:1, 2653:2
Matthew 15:24
I am not sent -- To manifest God's favor towards. R4627:2

When our Lord sent forth his Apostles to preach and heal, he told them to
pass by all who were not Jews. R4627:1
Not because of narrowness on his part, nor because of insufficiency of
time on God's part, but because time and order have to do with every
feature of God's plan. R4344:2
The time had not yet come for giving Gentiles a place in God's family as
children of Abraham. OV365:T
Unto the lost sheep -- Those who have wandered from the Lord and were
lost in the wilderness of sin and darkness. R2084:3
Individuals, not tribes. R2085:1
The house of Israel -- Until the full end of Israel's 70th week of
favor. C170
Gentiles and Samaritans were passed by. With a few exceptions, our Lord's
miracles were confined to the Jews. R4627:1
They alone were God's covenanted people. R4627:1, 2512:2
"Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans
enter ye not." (Matt. 10:5) A72, 97; R2872:1, 1451:2, 257:2; HG343:2;
OV224:5
"You only have I known of all the families of the earth." (Amos 3:2) A97
Our Lord said not one word about the "house of Judah," which he manifestly
considered was merely a part of the whole nation of Israel. C300
The whole twelve tribes, all of whom were represented in Palestine. B207;
C252, 293
No longer represented by our Lord and the Apostles as the "ten tribes"
merely, but, as it is expressed, "all Israel." R1341:1; B206; C252
When the apostles were finally sent out to preach the gospel to all the
world, they were told to begin at Jerusalem. (Luke 24:47) R1783:6
It was not until Israel had stumbled through unbelief and been rejected of
God (Matt. 23:37,38) that he authorized the preaching of the gospel to the
Gentiles. R2518:6
So, in this harvest, the message is only to spiritual Israel. R1742:4
Matthew 15:25
Then came she -- The faith was there, hence the persistency of the
request. R3787:1
Lord help me -- Her importunity, when she recognized the Lord as the
only help. R4627:5
She left it entirely to the Lord's wisdom how the help and mercy should be
bestowed. R2281:1
Her daughter's cause was her cause. R2280:6
However degraded and outcast from God's favor, we may still know of the
divine compassion. R4627:2
Matthew 15:26
It is not meet -- Because the appointed time had not yet come, according
to God's Plan, for favor to be shown to any people but Israel. R1451:2
The children's -- Israelites'. R2604:3, 1000:4
Bread -- Favor. R1451:2
The children of God will be first fed from this table. R4627:4
Cast it to dogs -- Customary Jewish phraseology respecting Gentiles,
signifying their inferiority. R4627:2, 5444:4, 5004:6, 2604:3, 1451:2
This did not signify that the Lord had no love for the remainder of
mankind; their blessing would come in due time. R4627:4
Our Lord used the form of word which indicates the little pet dogs of the
family. R3338:4
The word here used by our Lord, and also by the woman, signifies house
dogs or little dogs, pet dogs, and not the objectionable wild dogs of Rev.
22:19. R2653:6
Not ferocious dogs, but house dogs--dogs which were friends and companions
of the children. R2281:1
A rebuff, calculated to dishearten one of little faith, but
correspondingly to strengthen a great faith; not of disdain, contempt or
indifference, but implying interest and sympathy, explaining a reason for
rejection. R2653:5
Had pride been in her heart, this response would have been sufficient to
put her on her dignity, so that she would have ceased her importunity and
tiraded against the Lord and the Jew as ecclesiastical bigots. R3787:2
Are we humble enough to accept his mercy on his conditions, acknowledging
ourselves nothing, that we have no merit to plead with him? R3787:4
Matthew 15:27
Truth, Lord -- Her faith, while persistent, was not intrusive nor
assertive; as a result, her prayer was granted. R2281:1
Note the difference between this attitude and the curious and unbelieving
desire for miracles of the people of his home city, Nazareth. R2579:5
Yet the dogs -- She was willing to confess herself one of the Gentile
dogs, that she had no right to claim any of those blessings of healing for
her daughter because she was not of the Jewish nation. Q601:T
Eat of the crumbs -- What perseverance was manifested: she believed the
Lord to be the Messiah. R4627:2
Jesus granted the woman a crumb from the divine table. R5004:6
"There was a certain beggar named Lazarus, laid at his gate, full of sores
and desiring to be fed with the crumbs." (Luke 16:20,21) R2604:2
As he let some of the crumbs of knowledge and blessing fall to the
Samaritans in John 4; an illustration of the Apostle's words, "Do good
unto all men as you have opportunity." (Gal. 6:10) R2574:5
Offering a clear explanation of how the Gentiles, pictured by Lazarus in
the parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus, ate of the crumbs of divine favor
which fell from Israel's table of bounties. R1087:1, 1086:6, 1000:4,
802:3, 284:2; HG385:6; Q600:1
In God's due time not only crumbs will fall for the remainder of the race,
but rich and bountiful provision. R4627:4
Master's table -- The table, or food, spread before fleshly Israel,
God's fleshly children, consisted of those special favors and promises of
God to them as his Chosen People. R4782:1
Matthew 15:28
Great is thy faith -- She had more faith than a majority of the Jews.
R4627:2
God's chiefest blessings are for the faithful. R4627:1
Matthew 15:30
Lame, blind, dumb -- All "afflicted of the devil" (verse 22), for all
afflictions are either directly or indirectly of Satan. R2281:2
To unstop the mental ears is more wonderful than to open the physical
ears; to cause the dumb to sing praises to God is greater work than the
giving of natural speech. R5104:5
He healed them -- If the laws of nature can be controlled to some extent
by man for his own convenience, how much more able is God to control the
operation of his own laws. R2281:5
His mission was not to heal the sick and cast out devils, but to give his
life a ransom. The miracles and cures were merely incidentals, and not his
real work; incidental in that they illustrated his great kingdom work.
R5104:2, 2281:4 It was not so important that certain persons be physically
healed, nor that the multitudes not go hungry over night, but that the
apostles should get the needed lessons and see the Lord's power. R5920:5
It would have been still greater to have opened the eyes of their
understanding and their deaf ears; but this work could not be accomplished
at that time. R5104:4
Matthew 15:31
The God of Israel -- Of the whole twelve tribes. C252, 293, 300
Matthew 15:32
I have compassion -- The necessity prompted our Lord to use of the

divine power communicated to him by the holy Spirit; but he had refused to
use this same power selfishly. R4617:2, 2006:4
On the multitude -- He created food for the multitudes, but not for
himself or his disciples. They undoubtedly ate of the food, but its object
was for the relief of the multitude. R2006:5
Three days -- What other teacher ever had 5000 people leave their
employment and, negligent of food, follow him three days in the
wilderness?. R575:2
Matthew 15:36
Loaves -- Of ground whole wheat, about the size of our large buns.
R5104:5
Matthew 15:37
They did all eat -- Hungry and thirsty, yet feeding thousands. R1063:2*
Quite possibly some of us would find ourselves equally healthy and strong
on similarly plain food. R5104:5
And were filled -- From the Bible standpoint, these miracles are most
rational. The power of God, which produces as much as 250 grains from one
kernel, is surely sufficient to produce many times as much if the
necessity occurred. R4617:5
Jesus refused to use this same power selfishly for his own comfort, even
when he hungered after having spent forty days in the wilderness at the
outstart of his work. R4617:2
They took up -- The Master displayed frugality and encouraged economy on
the part of his followers. R5104:5
Matthew 16
Matthew 16:1
Pharisees -- A strong holiness party. OV71:T; R4986:3, 2939:5, 2485:6

Sadducees -- Higher Critics and politicians; or Reform Jews. OV70:3;
R2939:6
Practically unbelievers; of the wealthier, more respectable class. R4986:3
The agnostics or rationalists of that time. R2756:4
Matthew 16:3
Foul weather -- Our interest in the weather leads us to take notice of

the conditions of the sky which presage storms and fair weather. NS632:4
Can ye not discern -- Many see the signs of the new dispensation without
knowing how to read them or what they signify. NS632:5
Should we not be much more deeply interested in the much more important
things pertaining to the development of the divine plan? NS632:4
It was then, as now, the nominal church which discerned not. R384:3
Signs of the times -- Even those who have no knowledge of the divine
plan are now reading the signs of the times so clearly as to approximate
the time of a new order of things. R1619:3
Matthew 16:4
No sign be given -- The special light in both harvests is for the

Israelites indeed. B26, 27
While dismissing the self-satisfied, fault-finding quibbles of the
Pharisees with dark or evasive answers, our Lord took time and care in
making truth clear and plain to the humble. B27
But the sign -- The one great sign given that nation was not given until
Calvary. R5111:3
The prophet Jonas -- As Jonas was (portions of) three days and three
nights in the belly of the fish, so the Son of Man would be a similar
period in the earth, and then come forth. R5111:3
That sign did have a great effect upon thousands of Jews, as is evidenced
in the account in Acts of the thousands baptized upon hearing Peter's
preaching of Jesus' death, three days in the tomb, and resurrection on the
third day. R5111:3
See also comments on Matt. 12:40.
Matthew 16:6
Beware -- Be cautious, careful and watchful. R1670:6

Be ever on the watch that we be not caught in any snare of the Adversary.
R1661:6*
Of the leaven -- Corruption, error, sin. F464; T98
Incipient putrefaction, hence a symbol of impurity. R1800:2
Symbol of an evil influence. R5390:2
Symbolizing not merely false doctrine, but also a wicked disposition.
R2283:4
Of the Pharisees -- Typifying the synods, conferences, councils, etc.,
of the nominal church. C152
Matthew 16:9
How many baskets -- Doubtless our Lord and the disciples partook of the
bread and fish after they were made, but the object was the relief of the
multitude, and not their own refreshment. R2006:5, 1754:6
Matthew 16:12
Of the doctrine -- With special reference to the state of the dead.

R433:1*
Of the Pharisees -- The Pharisees believed in the immortality of the
soul and the eternal suffering of the wicked. R432:6*
Of the Sadducees -- The Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection,
nor in angels or spirits. R432:6*
Matthew 16:13
When Jesus came -- Probably toward the close of the third year of our
Lord's ministry. R3339:2, 2287:3
Caesarea Philippi -- On our Lord's most northerly journey in Palestine,
just at the headwaters of the river Jordan. R3788:1
Whom do men say -- Not because of his own ignorance, but that he might
draw out the thoughts of his disciples. R4645:1
Drawing out the apostles, and seeking to crystallize in their minds the
thought which he knew was already forming or had formed. R3339:6
The Son of man -- A title recognized among the Jews as appropriate to
the Messiah; a title applied to Messiah by Daniel the prophet. (Dan.
7:13,14) R3788:1
Matthew 16:14
Thou art John -- Herod, who had beheaded John the Baptist, seems to have
started the suggestion that Jesus was John risen from the dead. R2656:2
The answer that some thought him John the Baptist risen from the dead
showed that the public mind was being exercised, noting that he was not an
impostor. R3339:6
Some, Elias -- The Elijah prophesied to precede Messiah's coming. R2656:2
Others, Jeremias -- The doctrine of reincarnation, wholly unscriptural,
is suggested in these answers. R4645:1
One of the prophets -- Very few seemed to have thought of him as the
Messiah--expecting Messiah, when he would come, to be very kingly. R2656:2
Matthew 16:15
Whom say ye that I am? -- This was a pointed question, calculated to

bring out a full expression of their faith. R1760:2
Jesus had been with his disciples working miracles for nearly two years
before he asked them. R5767:5
With the intimate acquaintance that you have had, what is your opinion?
R3339:6
This is the great question of today. R5120:5
Matthew 16:16
Simon Peter -- Probably the oldest of the disciples, and their

spokesman. R3339:6
Answered and said -- Displaying not only the strength of his faith in
the Lord, but also his own strength of character and his zeal. R2656:3
Peter was the one who had the courage of conviction to speak out. CR151:5
Special blessings come, not only from believing in Christ, but also from
confessing him to and before others. R4645:2
The Christ -- God's Anointed One; Hebrew, the Messiah. R3339:6
"The man Christ Jesus, who gave himself a ransom for all." (1 Tim. 2:5,6)
R5120:5
The Messiah, the great deliverer of Israel and the world of mankind.
NS194:5
To be the Christ, he must have been the "man Christ Jesus" who gave
himself a ransom-price for all, signifying an extraordinary birth; else,
as Adam's son, he would have been subject to the sentence of death. R5120:5
As the Anointed Lord, he shall be the great King, Prophet and Priest.
R5120:6
Who left the glory of the Father and was made flesh to be the great
Redeemer. R5120:5
This was the first public declaration of Jesus' Messiahship. SM464:1;
HG737:2
Our Lord hesitated to present it; it would better come from the disciples
themselves. R4645:1
There was no protest on the part of any; their silence gave consent.
R3788:2
Son of the living God -- The apostles did not contradict the Lord and
say that he was the Father, nor that he was equal with the Father. NS195:3
The Scriptures nowhere speak of the Lord Jesus as his own father, the
Almighty Jehovah. R3788:3
Not of ordinary birth, but the Sent of God. R5120:5
Not only recognizing Jesus as the Messiah, but also his divine authority
and paternity. R2656:3
Possibly, the Son of God who is the author of life; probably, the Son of
God, the Living One--the one who has a right to life according to the law;
all others are under condemnation to death. R5120:5, 2656:3,5
Peter thus declared his faith that Jesus was the Son of God, not the son
of Joseph. R5767:5; OV328:4
The belief that Jesus, the Son of Man (verse 13) was also the Christ, the
Son of the living God, lies at the very foundation of Christianity. R944:4*
Matthew 16:17
Blessed art thou -- You have been greatly blessed of God to see this
truth. R2656:5
Jesus admitted the correctness of Peter's answer. R5120:1
Not only was Jesus' heart cheered by Peter's zeal, but Peter was also
blessed. R785:2
Simon -- Peter, being the most prompt to confess Jesus' Messiahship,
received the first and warmest commendation and reward. R1760:2
Bar-jona -- Son of Jona. R2656:5
Flesh and blood -- Signifying human nature. R4793:6, 611:2
Mankind in general. R2656:5
Revealed it -- The eyes of your understanding have been opened. R2656:5
But my Father -- Here again our Lord disclaims being the Father. R3788:3
The natural man cannot see the deep things of God, because they are
spiritually discerned. (1 Cor. 2:14) R5920:3
Not that St. Peter had experienced a special vision or revelation, but
that such a spiritual fact could be appreciated only by one specially
favored of the Father. R4645:1, 5563:2
Which is in heaven -- Jesus referred to the heavenly, and not to an
earthly father. R5767:5, 3788:3
Not on earth, except representatively. R3788:3
Matthew 16:18
Thou art Peter -- A piece of rock. NS194:3

The word Peter signifies a stone of moderate size. HG737:2; SM464:2
A stone, a strong-minded, strong-willed character. R4645:2, 2658:5
Greek, petros, a rock or stone; one of the "living stones" of the
spiritual temple. (1 Pet. 2:5) E375; F220; R4645:2, 3789:2, 2656:6,
1525:1; NS194:4; SM464:2
A stone ready for the spiritual temple, the first to publicly acknowledge
Jesus. HG737:2; SM464:1
Represented as one of the Twelve Foundation stones in the New Jerusalem,
the other apostles being equally foundation stones. (Rev. 21:12) R2656:6
He was honored by the name Rock, or Peter, as a memorial of his being the
first to recognize the great Rock--Christ Jesus. R813:1*
Upon this rock -- Greek, petra, mass of rock, fundamental rock, truth.
SM464:2; F220; R2656:6; NS194:3
This great truth that I am the Christ. E375; SM464:1; R4645:2, 3789:2
Peter's confession of him was a rock testimonial--a declaration of the
foundation principles underlying the divine plan. F220
The apostles, the twelve foundations of the New Jerusalem, were not laid
in the sand, but upon the sure and steadfast rock, Christ Jesus. R1522:1
"Other foundation can no man lay that that is laid, Jesus Christ." (1 Cor.
3:11) HG736:6; SM463:1
To think of St. Peter as the only foundation for the Church would be to
deny Christ's teaching and St. Peter's own statement that the entire
Church is symbolically represented as living stones built together by the
Lord through his holy Spirit. (1 Pet. 2:4-10) HG736:3
I will -- Spoken of as future. The foundation was not even laid until
Christ was risen a spiritual being. The building is a spiritual house and
is built on a spiritual rock. R97:3*
Build my church -- The Kingdom of God in embryo, in preparation. R5616:4
Composed only of those who have taken the steps of repentance from sin,
restitution to the extent of ability, acceptance of Christ's sacrifice,
and consecration. F275
Probably the first intimation that the Lord gave of his intention to build
a Church. R2657:1
The Church which Christ organized has existed through the centuries and is
composed of all those individuals inside and outside of man-made churches,
sects and parties. NS193:6
The Church of Rome holds that Peter was its founder, but it can produce no
evidence to this effect. R2657:2, 812:3* Not the present-day, man-made,
creed-bound and clergy-lorded systems. R2657:2
The gates of hell -- Greek, hades, oblivion, death, not torment. E375;
SM459:1; NS195:5
Not gates to some place of torture, nor to purgatory; it might well be
translated "the gates of the grave." R4645:2
We are not to suppose it is a barred gateway to a fiery hell and the
Church trying to break in; nor should we imagine the Church on the fiery
side, trying to get out. "O hades, where is thy victory?" 1 Cor. 15:55)
R3789:4
Shall not prevail -- As the heavenly Father raised up Jesus Christ from
the dead, so the gates of death shall not prevail against the Church.
OV363:4; SM463:3; R4693:2; NS196:1
The gates of hades did close over our dear Redeemer himself for portions
of three days, but they did not prevail. R2657:2, 1760:3
Our Lord prevailed over hades on the third day in his resurrection; the
Church also shall prevail on the third thousand-year day. R1760:3
An assurance of the resurrection of the dead. HG737:1
Bursting the bonds of death, bursting the restraints of sheol, of hades,
by the Father's power. R3789:4
Persecution, even unto death, would afflict the Gospel Church, but never
prevail to her utter extermination. R4645:2, 2600:2, 1760:3; E375, 376
Not that his followers should not enter the portals of death, but that
eventually these prison-doors of death would open. R2657:2
Matthew 16:19
Unto thee the keys -- Representative of the opening power vested in the
one who has been duly authorized to act; as we sometimes say, "He holds
the key to the situation." Q783:4, 795:4
The opening power. F221; E214; R4345:4
Symbol of power or an authority or an initiative. HG737:4; SM465:3
A key implies a lock. The thought here is that God's Kingdom was locked up
so that none could enter it. R3789:5
Our Lord did not open the doors of the Kingdom in the full sense of the
word; they could not be opened until first the great transaction of
Calvary had been accomplished. R2657:4
The key which Peter used was dispensational truth then due, and first made
clear to the mind of Peter by the holy Spirit. R1525:2
Keys represent power and authority. He needed more than one because
hitherto Jew and Gentile were totally distinct and the Gentiles were not
fellow-heirs, not of the same body. R376:1
Keys, in the plural, implies that more than one door was to be opened. As
a matter of fact, there were just two doors and just two keys, one for
each door, Jewish and Gentile. E214; NS803:1
The first key, on the day of Pentecost, to open the door for all Jews;
three and one-half years later he used the other key and threw open the
door to the Gentiles. PD73/87; SM465:3,4; R4645:4, 4345:4, 3789:6, 1760:5,
1525:2, 795:4; Q783:4
In 69 AD the door of Jewish favor closed. Since then, they are privileged
to enter the Kingdom of heaven class only upon the same terms and
conditions as the Gentiles. NS186:6
But, the door once opened, neither Peter nor any other man can close it.
Our Lord has the "key of David." (Rev. 3:7) R1525:2
So powerfully was the Kingdom key used by Peter that 3000 believers were
found--six times as many as had accepted our Lord during the three and
one-half years of his ministry. NS185:5
The other apostles were associated in the work, but Peter was the leader
and chief spokesman in that opening work of the Gospel dispensation.
NS185:4
This door will be closed forever when all the wise virgins shall have gone
in to the wedding. R3789:6
Of the kingdom -- Which, when Christ spoke, was securely locked. R3789:5
A class being called out of the world to become, with Christ, the ruling
power of the world. SM465:2
The Lord used the words "Church" and "Kingdom" interchangeably, showing
that the Church is the Kingdom in embryo. R32:3*
Whatsoever thou -- All of the apostles, including Peter. R3789:6,
1760:5, 1525:2
As Peter was only one of the foundation stones of the Church, so he was
only one of the twelve to whom this declaration was made. (Matt. 18:18)
HG736:4; SM462:2
Not that the Lord turned matters over to St. Peter and made him Lord of
heaven and earth; nor that any or all of the apostles were so honored.
R4645:4
Not applicable to all of the Church, but chiefly to the apostles. (John
6:70; 15:16; Rev. 21:14) R2658:1
Shalt bind on earth -- Binding and loosing was a common form of
expression in those days to indicate forbidding and permitting. R3789:6
Respecting the apostles alone, we have the assurance that whatever they
forbade or allowed was under heavenly guidance and sanction. R3789:6;
CR415:4
If they bound certain doctrines and teachings, we must know that those are
bound and firmly established in heaven. R4645:5
They would be enabled to understand which things of the Jewish Law were
binding upon the Church and which were not binding. HG736:5; SM463:T
Informing us that certain sins, willful sins, are not forgivable and may
be indeed sins unto death, unto the second death. R2658:2
Shall be bound -- We must recognize the apostles as God's inerrant
mouthpieces. R4645:5
Signifying that God would specially control their utterances so that their
decisions and writings might properly be considered authoritative.
R2658:1, 1760:5, 1525:2; HG736:5
Loose on earth -- Permit in the Apostolic writings. R3789:6; CR415:4
Whatever they loosed under the Mosaic law, they were supernaturally
directed to do so. R1760:6, 1525:2
If they declared that certain of the Jewish commandments were not binding
upon Christians, we know that the statement is true and that, in heaven,
the release or change is recognized. R4645:5, 4122:2
Informing us that certain sins can be remitted or forgiven: sins of
weakness and of ignorance, traceable to our fallen nature. R2658:2
Shall be loosed -- The Lord's overruling would make the twelve apostles
safe guides for his Church. SM462:4
Said to the apostles, and respecting them; applies to none others of their
day or since. R5002:2
Matthew 16:20
Tell no man -- Because the result of such a program would have been to
have aroused at least a party spirit amongst the people, and insurrection
would naturally have followed. R2658:2
Because it might hinder his crucifixion; or else bring it before the due
time. R3790:1
The people in general still needed line upon line and precept upon precept
in the way of evidence before they would believe. R1760:6
In view of the Jews' expectation of Kingdom glories, had Jesus announced
himself the Messiah at the beginning of his ministry, the effect would
have been disappointment to the degree of disgust. R3339:3
The time for the proclamation of Jesus as the Messiah did not come until
after his death and resurrection. Indeed his Messiaship properly dates
from his resurrection. R4645:5
He must purchase the world of mankind before he could become its Lord and
Life-giver, its Restorer, its Messiah. R3340:2
That he was -- He did not need to proclaim his Messiahship, for he
already knew that whomsoever the Father would draw would come. R2658:3
Matthew 16:21
From that time -- After preaching the blessings of the Kingdom for three
years. R3340:2 About the Passover season. R3178:3, 1238:2
Implying that thereafter his coming death was frequently a subject for
discussion and consideration between him and them. R3340:3
The former part of our Lord's ministry was devoted apparently to the
establishment of his disciples' faith through cures, miracles and
instructions. R2287:3
Truth should be told as the hearers are able to bear it: milk for babes,
meat for men. R2287:6
There is a lesson in this for us: we should tell our hearers about the
blessings of restitution before we preach the sufferings of the narrow
way. R3340:5
Suffer many things -- Testings of faith are as necessary to Jesus'
followers as they were to him; for the same reason: to develop and
crystallize character. PD76/90
And be killed -- He knew the cup was about to be poured for him, but the
disciples did not understand. R5421:2
They must be prepared in advance for his shameful death, else it would
prove such a shock to their faith that they could not recover from it, nor
believe in the resurrection. R3340:2
Matthew 16:22
Then Peter -- Perhaps unduly elated by our Lord's words of commendation

just uttered. R3790:1, 3340:3, 2287:6
Allowance must be made for Peter in that he was not only the eldest of the
apostles, but quite a good deal older than our Lord and of a very ardent
disposition, strong and impulsive. R3340:3
Moved, not merely by selfish motives of prejudice, but doubtless also by
his love for the Lord. R2658:3
Like all strong characters, he had proportionate opportunities and
liabilities to misuse his strength for evil. R2656:2
Took him -- Apart from the others for a private interview and
exhortation. R2658:4
And began -- Our Lord did not wait for him to finish. R2658:4
To rebuke him -- Peter undertook to be the teacher, "not holding the
head" in proper reverence. R3790:2
Let us each see to it that we be not disposed, as Peter was, to be wiser
than our Lord, and to attempt to tell him how matters should be conducted.
R3340:5
Be it far from thee -- Master, do not talk that way. R5585:2
Tempting our Lord to repudiate his sacrifice. R3178:6
He urged that the Master should not think of any steps which would lead to
death, but should think rather of prosperity and earthly favor. R4645:5
Trying to persuade the Lord not to yield himself as the sin-offering.
R1217:3
This shall not be -- This death, and the scattering of thy people, and
the triumph of evil generally. D564
The apostles could not understand how the Messiah could be crucified.
R5331:2, 5330:5, 4831:6
Matthew 16:23
But he turned -- Though tempted, he ignored his own will and all
suggestions from others contrary to God's plan. Therein lay the secret of
his success. R1125:5; HG292:6
And said -- Not privately, but in the presence of all his disciples.
R3340:4
Satan -- Adversary of God and of all in harmony with God. R5585:2,
5427:1, 2658:4
Adversary, opposing spirit--Young. F611
Hinderer of the work. R5585:2, 4645:5, 3790:6
You are becoming my opponent. R5585:2, 3340:4
In this course, St. Peter was opposing the divine will and plan, of which
the death of Jesus was the very center or hub. R5120:2, 4756:2
"His servants ye are to whom ye render service." (Rom. 6:16) R5427:1,
3340:4
Peter had come under the influence of Satan and become the mouthpiece of
error. The great enemy of God sought to use Peter as a channel of
temptation. R2288:1, 1217:3, 450:3
He had become the unintentional servant of Satan, whose bad counsel, if
followed, would have been a violation of Jesus' covenant. R1217:3
As Peter was the Lord's adversary, so the world often becomes adversaries
of God's children. R5546:5
The followers of Jesus sometimes need to resist their friends who offer
counsel contrary to the divine will. R5585:2, 4645:5, 2658:5
Informing compromising friends that their influence is being exercised in
the wrong direction, against the truth, our best interests and the divine
plan; hence they are not only our adversaries, but also adversaries to the
Lord. R2658:5
Beware that Satan does not get possession of our talents and, under the
guise of working for Jesus, really use our powers against the truth. R451:1
Let us take heed that we be not tools of the adversary in stumbling others
and that we be not stumbled by others who take such positions, no matter
how kind and sympathetic their manner and intentions. R2288:2
Even kindly-meant dissuasions from duty on the part of our own friends, or
the natural desires of our own flesh, we should recognize as besetments of
the Adversary. R1760:6
Jesus was full of love, but he spoke most emphatically against evil-doers;
yet, how differently the Lord's rebukes affected his loving disciples and
the proud Pharisees. R664:1*, 416:1*
An offense -- "A stumbling block" (Revised Version); a stone of
stumbling. The same Peter earlier designated a stone, indicative of strong
character, was now in danger of becoming a stumbling stone. R2658:5
Instead of helping, you are hindering me. R5585:2
It was about the Passover season, the time when the Lord's people seem to
be be in the greatest danger of stumbling. R3178:3
"Be not many of you teachers, brethren" (Jas. 3:1), knowing that a man
that is a teacher has severer trials. R3790:2
Savourest -- Partakest. R2658:5
That be of God -- Divine wisdom. R3340:4, 3790:3
That be of men -- Human wisdom. R3790:3, 3340:4
The things of human judgment and preference. R5120:2
You are viewing matters, not from God's standpoint, but from the
standpoint of fallible, fallen men. R2658:5
Your counsel is that common to the world and not of God. R4645:5
Your suggestions are contrary to the divine program; it is necessary that
the Son of man suffer sacrificially. R4756:2
Matthew 16:24
If any man -- Who is already a believer. R5003:5, 3235:6

The reference is exclusively to those on the "narrow way" and does not at
all refer to the world of mankind. R2615:5
Many--all believers during the Gospel age--are called, but all do not care
to accept the conditions of sacrifice which are attached to the call.
R1310:4
His words imply that it is a matter of choice with the individual, and not
a matter of compulsion in any sense of the word. R3235:3; Q282:1; NS344:5
Will come after me -- Will follow my example, be my disciple. R5654:1,
5596:6, 5588:3, 5553:1, 5223:1, 5003:5, 3790:3
Not merely believing that Jesus died, and that he was holy, etc. R5833:2
Be a follower of mine, walk in my steps of obedience to the Father's will,
and share with me in the Father's reward. R3236:4
Let him -- Take the steps which the Master indicated as necessary, not
optional, for membership in the household of faith. SM636:1
His followers should count the cost of discipleship in the same cool,
calculating, methodical manner in which they would count the cost of
erecting a building. R3235:6; NS344:5, 654:3
Any who decline these terms are declining the only entrance conditions
connected with the school of Christ. NS671:5
Deny himself -- Sacrifice himself, his earthly interests and ambitions.
R5696:6, 5588:3,4, 5570:1, 3845:5; Q399:T
Set himself aside, ignore himself, renounce his own self-will. R5691:1,
5596:6, 5588:3,4, 2616:1; Q399:T; CR409:4
Self-sacrifice unto death. R5006:3
Give over the doing of his own will--his self- sufficiency. CR347:2
Let him deny all ability to wash away his own sins; deny his own
righteousness and accept of mine. R761:5
Die to himself. R5719:2
Humble himself. R5303:3
It is easier to deny everything else than to deny yourself. CR149:1
In so doing we are sowing to the Spirit and shall reap the great reward.
R5665:6
The first step is self-renunciation, full consecration. R5719:2, 5654:1,
5303:3
Set himself aside, ignore himself, his talent, his will, his wealth, his
everything--discipleship first. R5588:3
Self-negation, absolutely necessary to discipleship. R2658:6
Self-renouncing and fasting, in the highest sense of the word, is enjoined
with fasting from fleshly desires (both good and bad) in the interests of
the new creature and for effective service. NS154:2
Ignore self-will and self-gratification, including all earthly ambitions
and desires, the sinful, and no less they that are laudable and proper.
R2616:1
Whatever is sweet to nature must be disowned; illustrated by honey being
forbidden in sacrifices. R84:6*
Not merely the outward form practiced by Christendom during Lent, but that
of self-consecration and immolation which our Lord's words signify. R2616:6
Kill his will outright, not merely hack and mutilate it. This is not a
cross. The desire to give up our will and accept God's will must be a
pleasure. "I delight to do thy will, O my God." (Psa. 40:8) R3237:2
This first step in following the Lord is properly designated a sacrifice,
but it is not the taking up of the cross. R3236:6
Self-denial relates more to passive obedience, cross-bearing to activities
in the Lord's service; self-denial means courage and zeal, cross-bearing
means victory; self-denials may be victories in our own hearts;
cross-bearings may be seen by others. R2616:2
In order for the sacrifice of our wills to be acceptable to the Lord at
all, it must be no cross to us. R3237:1
All subsequent sacrifices which we may make in the Lord's service are
included in, and represented by, this sacrifice of the will. R3236:6
We should not sacrifice others in order to be his disciples. It is
ourselves that we are to deny, ourselves that we are to sacrifice. R3845:5
Take up -- Thoroughly imbued with a zeal for God and for righteousness.
R3236:1
Having counted the cost of discipleship. R3235:6
It is not enough that we should start out with a courageous intention, a
bold acknowledgment of Jesus and a bold profession of discipleship.
R5426:4 It is to be not merely lifted, but carried. R5223:2
The taking up of the cross is done after we come to a knowledge of the
truth. We cannot take up the cross until we have seen what the cross is.
R5223:2,4
Bearing the cross means enduring it. R5223:4
The bearing of the cross is the way of growth in character for the
consecrated child of God. R5223:5
His cross -- The trials, difficulties, disappointments; the "crossing"
of the human will made necessary by doing God's will under present
unfavorable conditions. R5596:6, 5553:4, 3237:3, 3236:4, 2658:6
Suggestions of the world, the flesh and the devil which conflict with the
divine will. R5426:4 Self-denial, cross-bearing is the sacrifice necessary
to discipleship at the present time. R5055:3; SM642:2
As soon as we take hold of the cross and put forth our efforts, our Lord
lifts the real weight of it. R3236:6
A symbol of self-denial, self-sacrifice, suffering for righteousness' sake
in opposition to the spirit of the world, the flesh and the adversary.
NS622:4 In the sense of being sacrificed, even of earthly interests.
Q399:T
A crossing of their own wills, submission to the divine will. R3341:1
Our faithfulness in cross-bearing consists in our willingness to stand up
for the truth, no matter what the cost of friendships broken or enmities
enkindled. R3237:3
The shame of the Cross, the ignominy of the Cross, the ordeal pictured by
the Cross. NS622:3
Opposition of husband or wife engendered by faithfulness to the Lord,
endurance of opposition by business competitors because of faithfulness to
Christ are part of our cross-bearing. R5223:3
Jesus' cross-bearing was practiced continually throughout the three and a
half years of his ministry. R2616:3
The Master's cross-bearing did not consist in fighting the weaknesses of
the flesh, for he had none; nor are the weaknesses of the flesh our
crosses. R3237:2
It is fortunate that in the outstart we cannot appreciate the full meaning
of cross-bearing, or few of us would have the courage to make a
If we were in heaven, in full accord with the divine will, we could have
no crosses from the time we fully consecrated to the Lord. R3236:4
It is remarkable that the cross, which symbolized the most ignominious
form of capital punishment under the Roman Empire, should be the symbol of
Christianity. NS622:2
And follow me -- Walk as he walked; in the same way, the same direction.
R3237:5
Patiently continuing to bear the cross. CR347:4
In the footsteps of Jesus, in the sacrifice of human life and restitution
rights. R5596:6, 3237:6; OV251:3, 123:3
"Walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit." (Rom. 8:1,4) R3237:5
In direct opposition to the world-current. R2616:5, 1790:5
It would be better not to take up the cross unless we have the
determination to go unto the end. R5223:2
Matthew 16:25
Whosoever -- Of Christ's disciples. R5806:6, 5425:6

Will save his life -- Greek, psuche, soul, being. E335
Many professing Christianity have never become Christians according to
these conditions. R5425:3
Save present social and ecclesiastical life, including reputation. R591:6
Be solicitous of maintaining his rights and holding on to the present
life. R5120:3
Amounting to a question as to whether we love the present or future life.
R3341:1
Refusing to sacrifice it after having made the consecration. R2615:5
If we, consecrated believers, turn back again to live after the flesh, we
shall die; for us to be carnally minded is death, to be spiritually minded
is life and peace. R5806:6, 1748:3
Shall lose it -- No question of torment, but of life or no life, of
being or not being, of existence or non-existence, of eternal life or
destruction in the second death. R2288:5
The disposition to preserve the present life and its comforts at any cost
is the disposition which will be deprived of eternal life. R2288:2
Entirely--losing all hope of a future life. R2615:5
One must either gain the spiritual life they have started out for, or lose
all life. R2615:5
Lose the great prize of the divine nature. R5120:3
Discipleship meant the very reverse of what the apostles had naturally
expected. R3790:3
Will lose his life -- Greek, psuche, soul, being. E335
Sacrifice every earthly hope, aim, object and to lay down life. R5426:2
It is a case of losing our earthly lives and gaining the heavenly. R3790:4
Only through much tribulation would they enter the Kingdom. R5426:1
Such devotion will necessarily mean the severing of many earthly ties.
R5426:2
Shall find it -- Only those willing to comply with such terms,
demonstrating their love and loyalty, could be entrusted with the great
power, glory and honor granted the Kingdom class. R5426:1
Will gain the reward of life on the spirit plane. R5120:3
Matthew 16:26
Is a man profited -- Men labor for wealth, to gain as much as possible

of the whole world, only to find when they are rich that wealth has come
at the expense of health. R276:6, 205:2; E258
Gain the whole world -- If they selfishly seek for the whole world, the
selfishness thus developed will make them unfit for eternal life. R5120:3
Lose his own soul -- Utterly perish. R2288:4
Become a cast-away as respects the eternal promises within his grasp
through Christ. NS265:5
As a result of that selfish will which is opposed to the divine will and
its law of love. R3341:2
For his soul -- Being, existence, his most valuable possession. E258
The word "soul" in this verse, psuche, is the same Greek word rendered
"life" in the preceding verse. R2658:6, 2288:2, 248:6; E335
His future existence. R2615:6
Matthew 16:27
The Son of man -- It is proper to think of our Lord as the seed of

David, and equally proper to think of him as the seed of Adam, through
Eve. E152
Shall come -- At his second coming. R4645:6, 4142:5*, 2288:5
With his angels -- Messengers. R4645:6
And then -- During the Millennial age. R2304:2
The full reward is not given to the Church until Christ comes. A103
Assuring them that they would not get the Kingdom inheritance until some
period in the future. R3790:5
The rewards of Christ's discipleship were not to be expected in the
present life. All that we may now have in the way of compensation will be
the peace and blessing of the Lord in our hearts with glorious hopes for
the future. NS602:4
Full recompenses, either rewards or punishments, are not to be expected
before the resurrection. R1881:4
Therefore those who have "fallen asleep" have not already "gone to their
reward." HG347:4
Reward every man -- Including the unjust, for "the Lord knoweth how to
reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished." (2 Pet.
2:9) A103
According to his works -- Whereas it is now, "according to thy faith be
it unto thee." (Matt. 9:29) R2304:2
Whosoever now gives even a cup of cold water to one of the Lord's
disciples, because he is such, shall have a reward. R1469:6
Matthew 16:28
Verily I say -- This verse is separated from its connection by the

starting of a new chapter. The Revised Version corrects this difficulty.
R2288:5
There be some -- Peter, James and John: the three apostles most advanced
in faith and zeal. R2659:1
Till they see -- On the mount of transfiguration. Q797:2
Son of man -- The three disciples had seen the Son of Man in his Kingdom
glory in vision. The reality has not yet come to pass. R4649:6
In his kingdom -- Properly rendered "Royal Majesty." Q797:2
As explained in the first nine verses of chapter 17. R3790:5
Matthew 17
Matthew 17:1
And after six days -- Just about enough time to permit them to discuss
and digest the meaning of our Lord's words concerning his coming death.
R3345:5
During the six days following the announcement of the Master's coming
suffering, ignominy and death, we may assume that the apostles were
sad-hearted and bewildered. R5121:2
Jesus taketh -- Seeking to draw their minds gradually to a realization
that his death would not mean a repudiation of the promises of the Kingdom
and its glory. R5121:1
Intending to assure the apostles respecting the certainty of the Kingdom,
notwithstanding the apparent failure of all Kingdom hopes in our Lord's
The object of the vision was probably two-fold: the comfort and
strengthening of the Lord and the enlightenment of his chosen witnesses.
R1761:4
Peter, James and John -- Those most advanced in faith and zeal. R2659:1,
3345:5, 2289:2
Three of his favorites. R4649:3
An high mountain -- Supposedly Mount Tabor. R4650:1
Presumed to be Mt. Hermon. R3345:2
Apart -- Luke tells us that he went there to pray, and we may reasonably
suppose that the three apostles joined with him in prayer. R3345:2,
2659:2, 2289:2
So all those who seek God in prayer may, to a large extent, with the eye
of faith realize this same blessed vision of the Kingdom. R2660:1
Matthew 17:2
Transfigured before them -- That is to say, his appearance changed.

R4649:3, 558:3
Not an actual change from human to divine, but a vision or picture of it.
R3793:6, 2659:5
An illustration of the Kingdom. PD64/74; R2288:6, 3345:6, 1761:2
It was a vision of Christ's dignity and glory in the Kingdom. The central
figure was Jesus himself. Moses and Elias were merely accessories to fill
out the picture. R3793:5, 2659:2
As the sun -- Representing him as no longer the man Christ Jesus, but
the risen, glorified Son of the Highest, a spirit being. R2659:4, 2288:6
White as the light -- Representing the "glory to follow," when the
sufferings are all complete. B20
His garments put on a shining appearance and became part of the vision.
Q713:2
After the manner of angels. R5121:2
Matthew 17:3
Appeared unto them -- It was only an appearance, because Christ was the
firstborn from the dead; and neither Moses nor Elias is as yet made
perfect. F676; Q761:3, 713:1; R2288:6
Radiant, but less so than Jesus. R5121:2, 3345:2
There was glory and honor attached to the Jewish dispensation and to the
Gospel dispensation, but a still greater glory was manifested in the
presence of Jesus, who represented the Millennial dispensation. R3345:6
The figure was glorious; the reality excelleth in glory. R1323:2*
Moses -- A figure of Moses, representing the Mosaic or Law dispensation;
or the overcomers of the Jewish age. B255, 20; F677; R5772:4, 5121:4,
3794:3, 3790:6, 3345:5, 2659:4, 2289:1, 2288:6, 1761:2
Identified, either because Jesus used their names in talking with them; or
by Jesus informing the apostles on the way down from the mountain. Q807:2
Moses spoke of the sufferings of Christ in all the arrangements of the Law
and its sacrifices. R2659:3
He was the mediator, or representative of Israel, and would very properly
represent them in this tableau. Q260:1
And Elias -- A figure of Elijah, representing the Gospel or Christian
dispensation; or the overcomers of the Gospel age, the Church. B255, 20;
F677; R5772:4, 5121:4, 3345:5, 2289:1
Representing the prophets, who declared not only the coming glories, but
also the sufferings which must precede them. R2659:3
Both Moses and Elijah had fasted 40 days, as had Jesus, showing that they
were one with him in remarkable devotion to the heavenly Father. R3794:3
Both Moses and Elijah passed from earth's scene under peculiar
circumstances; yet we are assured that both died. (Deut. 34:5; Heb. 11:13)
Q761:3
Neither Moses nor Elias went to heaven. R5333:5
Moses and Elijah represented two classes that will participate with Jesus
in his Messianic glory in the Kingdom. R5333:5
Talking with him -- Both dispensations speak of the sacrifices and
sufferings of Christ and the glory to follow. B255
The conversation of the vision corroborated his statements that he would
suffer a martyr's death at Jerusalem. R3345:5, 2659:3, 2289:1
Probably while the disciples were asleep (Luke 9:32); and doubtless,
therefore, specially for his own comfort. R1761:5
It was a vision of the heavenly Kingdom, Moses representing one class,
Elijah another, and Jesus himself representing the other. HG205:4
Moses and Elijah represented the two classes associated with the Lord in
the glory of his Kingdom who will constitute the earthly and heavenly
phases of the Kingdom--Moses the earthly, Elijah the heavenly. R1761:2,
559:4
The glorified Jesus stood between the Moses class, called previously, and
the Elijah class, which had just begun to be called. R5121:5
Matthew 17:4
Three tabernacles -- How many, like Peter, want to rear earthly

tabernacles, failing to understand the real vision of the Kingdom. R3795:1
We cannot build tabernacles on the mountain heights of faith and hope and
expect to remain there in enraptured vision, but must remember that
present duties and conflicts are essential to our development and part of
our covenant. R2660:1,4
Matthew 17:5
A bright cloud -- Representing the cloud of trouble into which the

apostles were plunged by the death of the Redeemer. R3794:5
The cloud of trouble and opposition is permitted to keep us humble, to
listen to the voice from heaven. R3794:5
A misty cloud of light saying to the disciples and to us that his glory
will be obscured for a time, observed only with the eye of faith, but
which, though more or less cloudy, will nevertheless be bright to those
who look unto him. R2659:6
Behold a voice -- "And this voice which came from heaven we heard when
we were with him in the holy mount." (2 Pet. 1:18) B255
Out of the cloud -- Similarly at his birth, heavenly angels announced
him; and at his baptism, the voice from heaven declared him the acceptable
Son of God. R1761:5
Hence God twice burst heaven open to exclaim, "This is my beloved Son";
but this was the only time in the history of our race that God's silence
was thus broken. R84:2*
This is my beloved Son -- In the sense of being begotten by him, Christ
called God his Father, and God acknowledged him as his Son. R944:4*;
HG297:1
Their faith was corroborated: what they had previously believed, God here
testified himself. R5121:3
Hear ye him -- All through the Gospel age, while the misty cloud
surrounds his glory, we shall have great need to continually hearken to
the Word of the Lord. R2659:6
"Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak." (Jas. 1:19) R2289:4
Seeming to say, Be still! Hearken rather to the words of my beloved Son.
Not a few need to learn this lesson of quietness--to hear and learn, to be
taught of God. R2289:3
"My sheep hear my voice." (John 10:27) R3346:5
The essence of the entire vision was to impress upon the minds of the
apostles the fact that Jesus was the Messiah. R3794:5
Matthew 17:6
Heard it -- Not many have heard, understood, appreciated or obeyed the

Gospel invitation; but in the Millennial age it will be the will of God
that all shall hear. R3345:6
Were sore afraid -- Received a needed lesson in reverence. R2289:4
Matthew 17:7
And touched them -- It required our Lord's kind words and touch to
relieve the apostles of their fright. R4649:3
Be not afraid -- With the fear engendered in the reproof of the voice
from heaven which said, "Hear ye him." R2289:4
As we realize our unworthiness, fears are likely to grasp us and torture
us. The more we learn of him, the more does the love of God cast out fear
from our hearts. R4650:1
He who created us is sympathetic towards all who are striving for
righteousness. He is a great God, not a little one. R4650:1
Matthew 17:9
The vision -- Of the coming Millennial Kingdom. B255; R5333:5, 5121:6;

Q713:2
Not an actuality, but a vision, such as seen by John the Revelator.
R5772:3, 5121:4
Greek, horama, occurs twelve times in the New Testament, and on every
occasion the context shows that the thing is not real, but is a vision.
R4142:4*
Moses could have been resurrected by God's power, but nothing in the
narrative demands it. If Jesus called it a vision, why should we call it a
reality? R201:1
A vision was just as useful to the purpose as a reality could have been.
R2659:5
Visions are not realities, though they symbolically represent them.
R2826:1, 2288:3
Just as the trumpets, beasts, etc., of Revelation are not realities, but
visions. R5333:5, 5772:4, 5121:4, 3354:3, 2659:5, 2288:3, 559:1; Q259:7,
713:2, 761:3
Special visions and revelations of the holy Spirit were granted to the
apostles to instruct them concerning things to come. R1525:6
A vivid and refreshing symbolic view of the Kingdom; but without the "sure
word of prophecy" (2 Pet. 1:19), it would have been unintelligible. R1761:4
Frequently the blessings received are mental visions of the glorious
things which the Lord hath in reservation for them that love him. R3345:2
Matthew 17:11
Elias -- The glorified Christ. B20, 254; Q259:4

A woman is the figure used when the Church alone is referred to; but here
a man, Elijah, is used because the work prefigured is not the work of the
Church separate from her Lord, but the one work of both. B255
Truly shall first come -- Oldest manuscripts omit the word "first." B254
To prepare the way of Messiah by performing a reformation work in
preaching repentance and baptism for the remission of sins and declaring
the Kingdom of heaven at hand. Q772:4
The coming of Elijah must precede the day of the Lord (Mal. 4:4,5); but
his work belongs to that day. HG68:3
Restore all things -- In the times of restitution of all things. (Acts
3:19-21) B254 John did do a work of reformation amongst the Lord's people
at the first advent, the work of introducing Messiah. R3292:6
Christ here speaks of restitution, and he is a prophet. (Acts 3:21) HG56:2
The restitution of all things does not begin until the return of Christ.
Hence the work of Elijah does not begin until after the personal advent of
Christ. HG68:3
Matthew 17:12
Elias is come -- Not reincarnation, for that theory is nowhere taught in

the Scripture. Q772:4, 817:2
Jesus was calling to mind the prophecy of Mal. 4:5,6. Q772:4
We know positively that John was not Elijah, for we have his own
testimony, "And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elijah? And he saith,
I am not." (John 1:21) Q772:4, 817:2
John the Baptist, a type of the Elijah class, forerunner of the Church in
the flesh, as the Church is the forerunner of the Christ in glory. B253,
252; R3346:4, 3292:6, 557:1
Elijah was a type of the Church, and John a continuation of the same;
while at the same time a shadowy fulfillment of it. B254, 253, 257
However, John did not do all that is to be done by Elijah, and hence a
greater Elijah is to be expected. (Matt. 11:14) R2838:6
Knew him not -- Though they for a short time recognized him as a sincere
man, a servant and a prophet of God. (John 5:35) R968:5; B260
Whatsoever they listed -- But to the antitypical Elijah they shall not
do as they list. HG69:2
Matthew 17:14
When they were come -- At the same time this vision was taking place,
the other disciples at the foot of the mountain were contending with the
adversary, even as are the Lord's people of the present time. R2659:4
Matthew 17:15
He is a lunatick -- The Revised Version speaks of the sufferer as an

epileptic. We prefer the narrative as it reads--that Jesus rebuked the
"devil" and cast him out of the boy. R4650:2
Matthew 17:16
Could not cure him -- Thus the Lord's people are still in the valley of
conflict with the will of the flesh and the devil, while with the eye of
faith they behold at the top of the mountain their glorious Lord, soon to
share with them the glories of his Kingdom. R2659:4
Matthew 17:20
Your unbelief -- Faith, to be successful, must be backed by spiritual

power. R4650:4
If ye have faith -- Not imagination or blind credulity. Q774:3; R1967:3
Say -- The request must be in harmony with the divine will. Q774:2;
R1967:3
Unto this mountain -- Regarding the mountain as difficulties and
obstructions in our Christian course, or in the course of God's work, we
know that "miracles" are wrought for those who exercise faith. R1967:5;
Q774:3
Remove hence -- God gave no such command in respect to literal
mountains. R5446:4, 1967:5
It shall remove -- If they had proper faith in the power of God and
should receive a command from him. R5446:4, 4650:4
We are not to suppose that our Lord meant that his followers should try to
remove mountains as a diversion, nor as a proof of their faith. R4650:4
Matthew 17:21
Prayer -- The lesson to the apostles was that their greatest power would
result from their living very near to God; living lives of self-denial and
prayer. R4650:4; NS153:2
Matthew 17:27
Give unto them -- This example of submission to the authority thus

represented that they were all respectful and law-abiding. R1555:6
For me and thee -- Yet Christ refused to miraculously provide for his
own needs at the time of his temptation. F650, 651
Matthew 18
Matthew 18:1
At the same time -- Apparently after the journey back to Capernaum from
the Mount of Transfiguration. R2660:3
Shortly after the vision on the mount of transfiguration. Our highest
views of heavenly things are quickly followed by earthly trials and
difficulties, which serve to test and prove us. R3795:3
Came the disciples -- The colporteurs and all public representatives of
the truth also are fallible and subjects of special temptations. R1537:1
Who is the greatest -- Perhaps the fact that Peter, James and John had
been favored more led to this query. R5130:2
Who would be the most influential, the Lord's prime minister. R5361:6,
5130:2
Probably the disciples who were not with the Lord on the Mount of
Transfiguration felt a little envious of those who had seen the vision and
who subsequently told them. R3796:1, 2660:3, 1766:3
The Master invariably encouraged their hopes and ambitions. His reproofs
were merely against their strifes as to which would be greatest. R1415:3
Matthew 18:2
And Jesus -- Avoiding personalities, as it is always wise to do when

possible. R3796:2
A little child -- Unsophisiticated, guileless, asks questions, seeks
instruction, does not profess and boast of wisdom, is candid, truthful.
R5130:2
With heart purity, simplicity, trustfulness. Q787:2
What a charm there is in childhood's simplicity. It confidently takes your
hand to be led where you please and you may write upon its blank pages
whatever you will. R657:1*
Afterwards, says Luke, he took it in his arms. R3796:3
Matthew 18:3
Verily, I say -- The manner is impressive and solemn; as though he would

say, I want you to take this lesson to heart and ponder it well. R1766:6
Except ye be converted -- "Except ye turn"--Revised Version. R2660:5
Turned about, changed from your present attitude of mind in respect to
ambition for place and honor in the Kingdom. R5224:3, 5130:2, 3797:1,
2660:5, 1766:6
From the spirit of the world to the spirit of Christ. R5557:5, 4767:4,
3647:4
Because the simplicity and meekness of childhood have been displaced by
the art (the selfishness and the proud, haughty spirit) which despises
As little children -- In meekness and teachableness. R5557:5, 4767:4,
3152:5
Simple of heart, meek, truthful, free from ambition and rivalry, faithful,
trusting, loving, obedient, teachable, without guile, indifferent to
social distinctions and popular notions. R1766:6, 3796:4
Confessing their littleness and ignorance, and going humbly to the Lord
for the necessary instruction. R5130:3
Not that little children are members of Christ's Kingdom class. The Lord
is seeking mature men and women who have a childlikeness of mind. R5130:3,
3796:3, 2660:2
The emphasis lies upon the word "as," in the sense of "like." Only the
child-like and trustful disciples can experience God's highest favor--a
share in the Kingdom. Q787:2
As natural, unlearned men, the disciples had no doubt been aiming as far
as possible from childlike simplicity to assume the dignity of mind they
considered appropriate to their future high positions. R2660:4
How beautiful the thought, "children of God!" R521:3
"Brethren, be not children in understanding; howbeit in malice be ye
children, but in understanding be ye men." (1 Cor. 14:20) R2660:2, 521:3
Shall not enter -- Much less be greatest in. R1766:6
The kingdom of heaven -- The Lord is not discussing the world. R3796:4
Matthew 18:4
Shall humble himself -- Those chosen to the place of eldership and

prominence in the Church should be amongst the most humble of mind and of
conduct in the whole company. R3796:5
As this little child -- Become a child of God and be taught of God.
R5130:3
"As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow
thereby." (1 Pet. 2:2) R2660:3
Indicating that the person is not overestimating himself and that he has a
tender consideration and love for others which cannot vaunt self. R1767:1
The effect which God designs is that we should realize our own
insignificance and unworthiness of such great honors. R3797:1
While this meek and teachable spirit is commended to all, it is not the
will of God that they should always remain babes. R3622:1, 1568:1
The same is greatest -- Will be most honored. Humility and
child-likeness among the Lord's people now should be esteemed a mark of
true greatness from the Lord's standpoint. R3796:5
Not by any arbitrary law of retribution, but on the philosophical
principle that humility leads to greatness. R1767:2
Rank and honor in the Kingdom will be proportionate to humility and
service here. R309:4*
The maintenance of the child-like spirit--after the world's hopes,
ambitions, etc., have been brought within the mental grasp of the man--is
evidence of that self-control and self-discipline which invariably bespeak
a noble character. R1766:6
Matthew 18:5
Shall receive -- Recognize and show kindness to. R1767:4

One such little child -- One such disciple as has this child-like
character. R3797:2
Privileged to be God's little child, and thus Jesus' younger brother.
R5130:5
In my name -- Because he is mine. R1767:4
Receiveth me -- They shall be considered and rewarded as though they had
received the Master himself. R3797:2
Matthew 18:6
Whoso shall offend -- Greek, skandalon, scandalize, stumble, entrap,

injure, hurt spiritually, thus perhaps subjecting himself to losses beyond
the present life. R3797:3, 5130:5, 2661:1
"Ensnare"--Diaglott. R3622:1
Sowing seeds of discord and planting roots of bitterness which are sure to
bring forth evil fruitage. R4502:2
It is not only a serious crime against the law of love to cause one of the
Lord's brethren to stumble, but even to stumble others, hinder them from
becoming brethren and members of the household of faith. R3145:6
A sin in no way covered by Christ's sacrifice, a sin against a measure of
light and knowledge. The chiefest of these are those against God's people.
R5463:5
Ensnare, beguile, lead astray--from the truth or holiness of life. R1767:4
These little ones -- Those that are little or humble-minded, meek and
loyal of heart. R3797:3
No matter how poor, weak, ignorant they may be, the very least of the
consecrated are supervised, and injury to them is punishable. SM221:3
New creatures who have only started in the new way of full consecration to
God's will. R5445:2
"Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth his little
ones that love him." (Psa. 103:13) R657:1*
Believe in me -- Showing that Jesus did not refer to infants. R5445:2
Better for him -- Because such a calamity could not in any way affect
his future life. R3797:3, 5445:3; SM221:3
But one who injures the Lord's little ones will be held responsible for
his deeds, even in the next life, in proportion as he realized what he was
doing. R5130:5
Hanged about his neck -- A special reprobation for those who do injury
to the Church. R4502:2
He were drowned -- Some drastic punishment, but not eternal torment.
SM222:T
Matthew 18:7
Woe unto the world -- Particularly in the time of trouble. R1767:4

Because of offences -- Greek, skandalon. Much of the world's troubles
arises because of these very snares, traps and injurious
misrepresentations. R3797:4
Willful offenses against sufficient light to avoid them. R1767:4, 5130:6
Including secular organizations. The same word is that translated "things
that offend" in Matt. 13:41. R1285:1*
It must needs be -- Necessary because it is the divine will that all the
elect Church shall be thoroughly tested and developed in character. R2661:1
That the faithful overcomers may be developed as well as separated from
all others; and that, by their exaltation, the new Millennial age may
commence. R745:1
That offences come -- And divisions. R1279:5
Because men's hearts are not right. R1767:4
Stumblings, ensnarements. R5445:2
That he should be crucified. R4908:2
Woe to that man -- That willful sinner. R1767:4
Who would deliberately attempt to deceive, ensnare, entrap, or discourage
his followers. R5445:3
However necessary, this does not lighten the responsibility of those who
lend themselves to the adversary's influence in placing these
stumbling-blocks before the feet of the saints. R2661:1
Many today do not realize that they place stumbling-blocks before the
Lord's "little ones" to lead them from the narrow path of full
consecration and self-sacrifice. R2661:2
As the spirit of selfishness undermined the loyalty of Judas to his
Master, so a similar spirit of selfishness may today undermine loyalty to
the Lord, his truth and his work. R3885:1, 2468:1
Matthew 18:8
If thy hand -- Any comfort, pleasure or taste as dear as a hand.

R2603:1, 5130:6, 3797:5, 2602:1
The offending hand would represent the doing of things that would be
contrary to our highest spiritual interests. R2661:4
Or thy foot -- Anything serviceable as a foot. R2603:1
The offending foot would represent the going into forbidden paths of sin
or self-gratification. R2661:4
A quality of character that would seem as close and precious to us as a
right hand or a foot. R3797:4
Offend thee -- By their gratification would forfeit the life to come.
R2603:1
Cause you to stumble. R5130:6
Cause thee to maintain an injurious character, a tendency to scandalize
others. R3797:5
Cut them off -- Remember that Jesus spoke to the people in parables, and
never without a parable. R5130:6 Cast them from thee -- If we do not put
away such practices we cannot enter the Kingdom. R3797:5
It is better -- Would be far better than possessing these privileges,
only to be ultimately destroyed in Gehenna fire. R3797:5, 2602:1, 2603:1
Better than to retain your members and lose all in Gehenna. R2603:1
To enter into life -- Everlasting life, which is the opposite of the
destruction symbolized by Gehenna. R2602:5
Everlasting fire -- Everlasting destruction, the second death,
symbolized by the continual fires kept burning in the Valley of Gehenna,
where the garbage of Jerusalem was destroyed. R2602:3,6, 2603:2, 2601:2,
3797:6
Equally symbolical with the other parts of the figure. R2661:5
Matthew 18:9
If thine eye -- Anything in your make-up as dear as an eye. R5130:6,

2602:1, 2603:1
The offending eye represents besetments which appeal as beautiful to our
natural tastes and likely to charm and attract us to earthly things.
R2661:4
Offend thee -- Cause thee to stumble. R5130:6
Pluck it out -- Cut off that tendency, no matter what it costs. R5130:6
The Lord's commands against sin and evil are to be executed, no matter if
the sin is as dear as a right hand or eye. R5648:5
Hell fire -- Greek, gehenna fire, everlasting destruction, second death.
R3797:6, 2602:3,6, 2603:2
Matthew 18:10
Ye despise not -- Do not hate, or in any way persecute. R1767:4

Or do anything demeaning toward them. R3797:6
They may seem humble and insignificant, but they are God's friends--yea,
God's children, for whom he cares, and whose every injury is an insult to
him. R2661:5
Those yet in the nominal church are despised and unnoticed by the proud
professors of Christianity who occupy the prominent positions in Babylon.
R657:4*
These little ones -- These humble-minded children of God. R2661:5,
3797:3,6
God pays careful attention to all the affairs of the weakest and most
ignorant of his children. Q270:3
"Little" in malice, pride and in the world's estimate. R2063:4
Their angels -- Each son of God has a special angel to care for his
interests. CR472:6; F76; R5606:1, 5387:5, 5257:3, 5131:4, 4926:6, 3798:1,
3441:2, 2661:5; Q270:4
"The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them" (Psa. 34:7) that are
his. "Are they not all ministering spirits?" (Heb. 1:14) F76; R5606:1
As illustrated by the vision granted to Elisha's servant. R3441:1
They are under a very special divine supervision and protection. NS337:4
Perhaps one guardian angel to each saint, perhaps more than one. R2350:4
In hours of danger and affliction, their services are needed and freely
tendered. Our Savior himself, in His earthly life, needed and received the
help of angels. R75:1*
Whether it is a living spirit being that interposes for us and guards us,
or whether influences or powers of God, it makes no difference to you or
me. Q270:4
The word angel might include all the powers of God, both animate and
inanimate, by which he could take knowledge of and render assistance to
those who are his. R3798:2
It is erroneous to presume that every human being has a guardian angel.
The Lord does not anywhere indicate such special guardianship on the
world's behalf. R3798:1
Do always -- These, and only these, may know that their prayers are
always heard. HG622:3; Q270:4
We are to get the thought that there is no delay in the bringing of any
and everything which pertains to their welfare and interest before the
attention of the great King. R2661:5, 2350:4
Behold the face -- Have access to the presence of. R5634:3, 5257:3,
4926:6, 3441:2; CR472:6
Have immediate communication with. R5387:5
Spirit beings can and do see God, "Whom no man hath seen nor can see." (1
Tim. 6:16) B132 Of my Father -- He is always ready to give attention to
their messages. Q270:4; R5387:5
Matthew 18:11
For the Son -- This verse is omitted from the Revised Version and is not
found in the oldest manuscripts, good authority for omitting it. These
words do occur in Luke 19:10 and represent an eternal truth. R3798:2
To save -- Recover. R5427:4, 4398:2
During the Millennium. R4398:2
By restitution. (Acts 3:19-21) E456, 457
That which was lost -- An earthly paradise and an earthly existence.
A177; E457; F669
Earthly perfection and dominion. A177; E457; OV251:2; NS266:6
Eden, harmony and communion with God, human perfection, and everlasting
life, were lost and will be restored. CR173:1
The spirit of the Lord, the relationship of sons. R5623:5
Not spiritual or divine nature. CR472:1
Men, by disobedience, had lost the right to eternal life and all the
privileges, blessings and opportunities pertaining to that great boon.
NS3:1
Man did not lose heaven, for he never possessed it. He lost earthly life,
an Eden home, human perfection. R4941:6; HG131:2
All that our race lost through Adam's disobedience. R4398:1, 3825:2,
1256:5; OV291:2
In contrast with evolution, which tells us that nothing was lost. HG492:6
Matthew 18:12
An hundred sheep -- All the Little Flock. R3798:4

Applied in a different manner than the parable of the lost sheep in Luke
15:3-7. R3798:4
And seeketh that -- He that recovers a sinner from the error of his ways
saves a soul from death and hides a multitude of sins. (Jas. 5:20) R3798:5
Matthew 18:14
Even so -- All who are in harmony with the Lord should have the same
interest in one another; they should be willing to spend and be spent in
the recovery of a brother from the snare of the adversary. R3798:4
These little ones -- All the Lord's true followers, subject to special
divine supervision. R5131:4
The babes in Christ, because of their very feebleness and inexperience,
have much special care bestowed upon them. R1568:1
How careful the Lord's people should be not to stumble one another. R5131:1
Matthew 18:15
Moreover -- There are no exceptions to the rule here laid down. R4984:2
We must not only scrutinize our motives; but, after finding good motives,
we must scrutinize our methods and square them all with the Word of the
Lord. R4218:4
If thy brother -- This instruction is given only to the brethren, the
Church. R5782:5, 5445:5, 5134:2, 4984:3
Those not brethren, not children of light, but children of darkness
associating with the brethren, must be dealt with along the divine
direction here laid down. R5229:6, 5782:5
In respect to dealings with those who are without, the same spirit will
apply. But if the unbelieving has attempted a fraud willfully, he should
be delivered to the world's courts. R2666:5
These instructions given only to the Church; but whoever learns to apply
this rule to the brethren will find that it commends itself as a wise
course of conduct in all the affairs of life. R4984:3
Shall trespass -- We should put on love (Col. 3:14) and overlook much of
what others do. R4984:2
Or have anything unpleasant to say, or any criticism to offer concerning
the private life of another. R5123:2
The true Christian will cultivate the disposition to think charitably of
the works and actions of others, and to suppose that their intentions are
good, until he has positive evidence to the contrary. R5123:1
Against thee -- Not what he does against some one else, but against
"thee." R5529:4
If someone tells us a trouble concerning another, we should ask that he
state it in such a way that the name is not given nor a description by
which we might recognize the other party. R5409:1
If a brother find another discriminating against him and more appreciative
of another than himself, he should not take offense. R4984:3
Go -- This law should be understood in the smallest details and followed
without any modification. NS566:2
These principles are practically illustrated in the following citations.
R4282:4, 4283:1, 3594:5; F415
Tell him his fault -- Without judging or condemning him beforehand. F415
Not to make him ashamed or to berate him, but to secure cessation of the
wrong and, if possible, some recompense for injuries received. F291
Have a clear understanding; to do so would result favorably in nearly
every case. R4984:3
Not the trivial matters, evil surmisings, rumors, fancied insults, but
positive wrongs done us. R5885:4, 4978:2
Not in a dictatorial way to show him there is something wrong, but in a
kindly way, to be reconciled. R4984:6
You have no authority to punish him; that belongs to God. R5409:1, 3744:6
To help him; not to twit, anger, tease or entrap him. R4985:1
If the matter is too small to mention, it should be forgotten. R4984:2
So long as the outward conduct of any brother or sister is reasonable and
fair, both justice and love say that you should not meddle with them.
R5274:6
If one chooses to overlook the brother's fault, it is not necessary to
follow all these regulations. R3744:3
Thee and him alone -- Privately, without previous conference or talking
with anyone. F291
Thus did our Lord guard against the insidious sin of slander, which stops
growth in the truth and its spirit of love. R4803:2
The probability is that misunderstanding is all that there is of it.
R5134:3, 4803:2
Even with positive evidence, go to the offender alone. R5123:1
Meeting with candor as "brethren" to discuss the matter. R4803:1, 3594:5
Disobedience to this command results in roots of bitterness,
misunderstandings, anger, malice, hatred, strife. R5123:2
The one and only proper manner of rebuke given by our Lord; the one and
only way of adjusting a grievance. R4978:2
It is a well-established principle of government that wrong-doers can be
treated to better advantage alone than in the presence of an audience.
R3801:2
If the matter is a trespass against yourself; if it is something against
the Church or outwardly immoral, the elders would be the better able to
judge, and know better how to approach the matter. R4598:5, 4459:2
The adversary will use every means to turn us aside from the plainly
stated rule of love; he will endeavor to make us think that it cannot be
applicable to the difficulty which troubles us. R4208:6
The usual sophistry by which the "old man" sets aside this divine rule is
to conclude that it is not applicable in this instance, or to be persuaded
that he does not know how to apply it in this case and must ask counsel of
others, the very thing here forbidden. R4191:3
To have a desire to tell of the weaknesses or faults of another is an
intimation of lovelessness on our own part. NS566:2
Not even to ask advice should the matter be told. We have the Lord's
advice, and we should follow it. F292
And not so much as mentioned to others, unless offenders refuse to hear,
refuse to correct the fault. R3035:5
In a family matter it might be proper to go to the head of the family; in
an institution where the offender is merely a representative, it would be
proper to go to the head of the society. R4984:2
If he shall hear thee -- The Lord did not say anything about his
apology. But if he recognizes that he is wrong and fails to apologize, he
is doing himself injury. R4985:1
Gained thy brother -- Recovered him. R3744:6
The matter is settled, peace prevails, the threatened break has been
averted and no one is the wiser. R4803:2, 3594:5
Seek to win thy brother and not cast him off nor excommunicate him. R4209:1
Back to fellowship, righteousness, harmony with the Lord. R2666:3
Gained him for righteousness, for salvation, for a Christian life, and
probably as a friend. R3801:2
Matthew 18:16
If he will not hear -- Unless the trouble is serious, the matter ought
to stop with the personal appeal to the erring one, whether he hears or
forbears to hear, to yield. F292
Alone, privately. F291
Then take with thee -- Make sure the matter is of sufficient importance.
R4985:1
Only after deliberate thought and prayer. R4985:1
If occasion require, take the subsequent steps. R5123:1
One or two more -- Unprejudiced brethren, not necessarily elders. F289
Preferably one of the two being an elder. They should go primarily to the
elders, and an elder would be the proper one to bring the matter before
the Church. R5409:2
Those called in should be "wise" (1 Cor. 6:5); such as both the accuser
and the accused would recognize, and whose judgment they would respect and
follow. R2431:6
Without any explanation whatever to them before they meet together with
the accused. F292; R5134:3; Q704:2
Fair-minded, honorable people in the Church; friends of the brother
injuring us. R4985:1
Be established -- If the witnesses disagree with you, you should
acknowledge that you have erred. R5134:3
If we are in error, we should be more anxious to be corrected ourselves
than to have the other corrected. R4985:1
If these give their verdict against the accuser, that should settle the
matter; the accuser should recognize his error. Not do do so would imply
that he was not seeking to ascertain the truth, but that he had judged his
brother personally. R2431:6
Matthew 18:17
If he shall neglect to hear -- But not sooner. F289; Q104:2 The advice
of these brethren should be followed by both. R5134:3; F289
If the injurious actions continue. R4985:2, 5134:3
In the event of the concurrence of the brethren that the wrong is being
done and of the refusal of the wrong-doer to desist. R5782:5
Even if the witnesses agree with us and the wrong-doer is not corrected,
we are still not at liberty to make mention of the case to others. R3030:3
Tell it -- The elders might constitute themselves into a Board or
Committee and get one of their number to look into the case and see if the
wrong could not be stopped or adjusted. Q479:4
Facts, evil deeds or evil doctrines, and not evil surmisings nor rumors,
are the basis of Scriptural disfellowship. R3035:5
Unto the church -- The consecrated. R2666:3
To patiently hear definite, positive charges of sufficient importance.
R4985:4
Not to be punished but, as a last resort, for reproof and correction.
R3744:6
In the presence of the accused. F415; R4985:4, 4281:5
If it is considered of sufficient importance as concerns himself, or the
Church, or the truth. F291, 292, 415 In the case that the matter had gone
beyond the individual, and had somehow involved the whole congregation.
Q479:4
There must be brought evidence to show that there is really a matter to
come before the Church, and that it is not merely a case of busybodying.
R4985:3
Up to this time, the case should not be discussed outside of these
witnesses. R5409:2
In proportion as they are saints they will desire to say no more to anyone
respecting the weaknesses or sins of anybody. F292
First certifying the facts to the elders. F289
The two witnesses should say to the elders of the Church that they have a
case to present for a hearing, but they should not make charges. R4985:2
The elders should call a special meeting to inform the Church of the case,
and the Church should decide when to call a meeting to consider it. R4985:2
For the one to state his trouble and the other to answer. R4985:4
At no stage of the proceedings should unkind words be permitted. R4985:4
It will be reasonable to expect that the voice of the Church in such a
matter will be supernaturally guided, that truth and righteousness may
triumph. R2666:4
The Church's decision of the question is to be final, binding upon both.
R5134:3, 4985:3
Neglect to hear the church -- By not repenting and reforming. F290
This is the highest tribunal. Brother should not go to law with brother in
the worldly courts, however much he may feel himself aggrieved. R2666:4
If either still have doubts as to the justice of the matter, he will
surely obtain a blessing by giving full and hearty consent to the Lord's
The vote of the Church should be unanimous, if possible, ignoring all
partisanship. R4985:4
The administration of discipline is not the function of the elders only,
but of the entire Church. F289; Q479:3
Their advice must not carry with it any penalty whatever. R4985:4; F290
Let him be unto thee -- In carrying out the findings of the Church
court, the matter rests with each individual; each must discern the
justice of the decision for himself. F292
As an heathen -- In that we can no longer have Christian fellowship with
such. R1663:5*
We would treat a heathen with justice and kindness and the love of pity,
but not with the love of affection due to a brother in Christ. R1255:4
Outside of your religious and social company, but not outside of your
love, care and desire to help. (Rom. 12:19,20) R3801:3
Not forbid attendance at meetings. The most would be to withdraw
fellowship, refuse to visit their homes or to invite to our homes, and not
appoint to any office in the class. R5954:3
Lest our continued fellowshipping cause our influence to oppose the truth
and favor the error, and thus make us sharers in the evil being done.
R1255:1
His punishment is not the object, but to secure repentance and reform. F290
And a publican -- He is a brother still, but not in the best standing.
R4985:5
Deprived of any and all manifestations of brotherhood. F290
Not appointing him to any position or honor in the Church. R5782:5,
5134:3, 4985:5
Not to be asked to offer prayer. R4985:5
To be debarred from participation in the Lord's Supper. F474
Treated in the kindly, courteous way in which we would treat any publican
or Gentile, withholding the special rights, greetings or voting
opportunities that belong to the Church. R3745:4
Not to be harshly spoken of even after the separation, just as we are not
to berate or rail against heathen men and publicans. F290
In that we could no longer respect such as we would an honorable man of
the world. R1663:5*
But not injured or treated unkindly in any way. F303; R5134:3, 4985:5
Disfellowshipped until he recognizes his wrong and makes amends to the
extent of his ability. F293
Taking heed to "speak evil of no man." (Titus 3:2) F290
We are to distinguish between avoidance and appointment to honorable
positions in the Church and the still different matter of disfellowship
and cutting off from the body of Christ, the Church. R4318:4
A complete separation from the Church. Until he has made a complete reform
he should be thoroughly disowned by the Church. R5275:1
Matthew 18:18
Whatsoever -- Showing the apostles' complete inspiration and

infallibility--not even wrong "only once." R1793:6
Ye shall bind -- The inspired Apostle bound the question of a purely
vegetarian diet, and settled it--see 1 Tim. 4:1-4. R3098:3
Ye shall loose -- They would declare not binding upon the followers of
Jesus only such things as in God's sight would not be binding. R5002:2
Loosed in heaven -- Thus guaranteeing divine supervision of the
apostles' decisions respecting what is obligatory or optional. F220;
R5588:1, 4827:1, 3124:4; SM463:T
We are thus assured of the infallibility of the teachings of Jesus and the
apostles. OV160:1; R5002:2
This applies to the apostles, and none others. R5002:2; OV395:6
Applies to all the apostles, and not just Peter. R4645:4, 3789:6, 2658:1;
HG736:4; SM462:2
Applies to the Apostle Paul as well as the other apostles. R4826:6
See also comments on Matt. 16:19
Matthew 18:19
Two of you shall agree -- The Lord is pleased to reward the united
efforts and prayers of his people. R4306:5, 1866:2
Matthew 18:20
Two or three -- It is a mistake to feel that no meeting must be held

except as appointed by the ecclesia and conducted by one of the elected
elders; but it is unwise to entirely ignore the class in the matter of
holding meetings. R4010:2, 5122:2,1
Are gathered together -- "Then they that feared the Lord spake often one
to another, and the Lord hearkened and heard it." (Mal. 3:16) F309
For mutual advancement in spiritual things. R309
For encouragement, mutual fellowship, mutual helpfulness and regular
association. R4854:5
This is our charter-right and we must concede an equal right to all of
God's people who may choose to meet in his name at any place and at any
time. R5501:3
Even two or three in fellowship are a body of Christ. R4965:9, 4592:6
"Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together." (Heb. 10:25) F309;
R4306:5
Not in elaborate church buildings, but where two or three are met
together, that is the house of God, and there his glory is seen and felt.
R2010:5
There am I -- The Lord will be specially present to grant a blessing.
R4854:5
The holy Spirit represented Christ; comforting those who came seeking his
blessing. R531:3
Those who realize the Lord's presence among them when they meet will be
very careful of their words, actions and the very thoughts of their heart.
R2543:3
In the midst -- Illustrated on the walk to Emmaus. R1823:2
Matthew 18:21
How oft -- Imperfect ourselves and surrounded by others who are

imperfect, we continually have need to exercise mercy, benevolence and
forgiveness. R4650:2
Shall my brother sin -- The Lord is not laying down any rule by which we
may deal with the world, but merely the rule which would govern amongst
his followers. R3801:3
It is the new creature and not the old creature that is the brother of
Christ. If a brother trespass, the wrong is not by the brother, the new
creature, but by his mortal flesh. R2666:3
In another account of the same matter, it is implied that before
forgiveness is granted, it be at least desired, if not sought. (Luke 17:4)
R4650:3
If he trespass seventy times seven he should be rebuked as often, either
by word, conduct, or both, and should repent in words and turn in conduct
just as often; and as soon as we believe him sincere, we must be prompt
and hearty in our forgiveness. R1694:2,5
Till seven times -- Peter no doubt had in mind the thought that seven
was the symbol of perfection, and that this might mark the reasonable
limit of mercy and forgiveness. R3801:4
Matthew 18:22
Jesus saith -- This is not merely advice, it is a command. R3801:5

Until seventy times seven -- No limit. R5134:3, 2666:1
How it tells us of the loving mercy and forgiveness of him with whom we
have to do. R4650:3
"If thy brother trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven
times a day shall say, I repent, thou shalt forgive him." (Luke 17:4)
R4650:3
It is as much the Lord's command that we do not forgive until he turns
again and repents as it is his command that we do forgive when he does
turn and repent. R1694:2
Forgiveness is obligatory when asked for. R5134:5
Even though fully forgiven, we may not put such a one into the same place
of responsibility previously held until we see a stronger and truer
character developed in him. R1694:5
This does not imply, however, that there may be no penalties attached with
the forgiveness. R2666:1
Evidently to imply that forgiveness should be granted as often as it is
sought with any manifestation whatever of sincerity. R3801:5
We may not decide that any transgression against us is unforgivable. Our
imperfect knowledge, as well as our imperfect judgment, forbids such a
decision. R1694:2
To return evil for good is devilish, to return good for good is human, to
return good for evil is Godlike. R3802:1*
Matthew 18:23
Therefore -- This parable does not refer to divine forgiveness of

original Adamic sin, but to subsequent sins. R5135:4, 528:3
Kingdom of heaven -- The Church in the present embryotic condition.
R5134:6, 4650:6, 3802:2, 2666:6
Of his servants -- Tax-collectors: representing the justified and
consecrated children of God, entrusted with the stewardship of the Lord's
goods. R3802:1,2, 5135:4
This parable does not relate to dealings between God and the world of
sinners; but between God and his covenanted children, called here, as
elsewhere, "bond-servants." R528:3
The world, as sinners, are not God's servants, but aliens. The only ones
God recognizes as servants are such as come back into relationship with
him through Jesus. R5135:4, 4650:5, 3802:2, 2667:1, 2295:3
Matthew 18:24
Owed him -- This can be understood in two ways--either the debt resting
against the whole human family, the death penalty; or the obligations of
the covenant of a new creature. R2667:4
Ten thousand talents -- Representing in value about $20 million, fitly
representing our great obligations to God as a race and our utter
inability to meet these obligations. R2295:3
Estimated to represent $9 million. R3802:1
Matthew 18:26
Worshipped him -- Asking, as members of the Body of Christ, in the name

of their Head. R528:6 Lord, have patience -- God does not forgive our sins
until we acknowledge them and ask his forgiveness. R2295:6
Matthew 18:27
Then -- As soon as the debtor asked for mercy. R2295:6

Moved with compassion -- Mercy is an element of love, and love is the
fulfilling of the whole law of God. R3802:5
Forgave him -- Not referring to divine forgiveness of original sin, but
entirely to subsequent sins. The sin of Adam is not forgiven simply
because we cry for mercy. R5135:4, 4650:6, 3802:2
Matthew 18:28
The same servant -- Representing the Great Company; or, possibly, those
who sin the sin unto death. R3802:6, 4079:5*, 2667:4
Fellowservants -- Other brethren. R5135:4
An hundred pence -- A small debt, probably representing not more than a
hundred dollars proportionately to our money and time. R3802:3
About $16. R3503:3, 2295:6
A very insignificant sum in comparison to the one which he had owed his
master. R5134:6
Took him by the throat -- Just as some professed followers of Christ
apply the law to their fellow disciples. R151:6*
The harsh and unsympathetic will be likewise treated. R5135:1
Matthew 18:30
Pay the debt -- If our standard in dealing with others be one of exact
justice--requiring others to measure up to our standard by some sort of
penance before we forgive them--we may expect no mercy at the Lord's
hands. R2667:5
Matthew 18:32
Wicked servant -- He who cannot render perfect justice cannot rightfully

require it of others. R5266:3
Matthew 18:33
Compassion -- The trespasses of others against us are trifling indeed in

comparison to our obligations to the Lord. R5135:1
I had pity on thee -- As we remember and appreciate our own weaknesses
and blemishes, it will make us sympathetic with the brethren and with all
mankind. R5135:2
Matthew 18:34
To the tormentors -- The jailers of Oriental countries were accustomed

to torment their prisoners. These doubtless represent Satan, to whom will
be turned over for the destruction of the flesh all true servants of the
Lord who fail to come willingly into accord with his spirit. R3802:5
Illustrating earthly disciplines. This might mean financial difficulties
or losses, or physical ailments, disease or what-not. R2295:6
To trouble and distress in the present life, sufficient to make them
sympathetic with the weak and erring. R528:6
The Great Company must wash in the blood of the lamb, in the "great
tribulation." These tribulations correspond to the tormentors of the
parable. (Rev. 7:14) R3802:6
Not that the Lord had sympathy with those barbarous customs, but that he
was speaking to the people from the standpoint of customs which they would
understand. R3802:5
All that was due -- The full consecration promised. R3802:4, 2667:4
It might represent the original debt resting upon the human family--from
which the Lord redeemed all; hence the unmerciful servant's penalty would
signify second death. R2667:4
Or if the debt represents the obligations of his covenant as a new
creature, he would be required to comply to his vow by going into the
great time of trouble. R2667:4
We are inclined to think that the uttermost farthing signifies a hopeless
case--second death--in the case of the Lord's people who fail to exercise
forgiveness toward the brethren. R2667:4
Matthew 18:35
So likewise -- What I am seeking in you, my servant, is perfection in my

character-likeness. R4651:4
My heavenly Father -- We are too inclined to look at the justice of his
character and copy it, and deal severely with our debtors. He wishes to
make clear that the grandest elements of his character are love, sympathy,
kindness and forbearance. R4651:4
Do also unto you -- Whatever our faith and works, they amount to nothing
if we do not have love which is merciful, generous, long- suffering,
patient toward those who injure us. R3802:5
Not that he wishes to retaliate, but to prepare us for a special service;
he desires that we learn the lesson of forgiveness and mercy. R4651:1,
2667:6
If we are harsh, unsympathetic, unforgiving toward our brethren, the
heavenly Father will so deal with us and not forgive us our trespasses.
R5135:1, 3803:1
From your hearts -- Not merely from our lips. R2296:1, 3604:4, 2295:5
If at heart we treasure up resentment against others, our heavenly Father
will not forgive us. R5123:3, 5135:5, 2444:6
Not only forgive; but forgive gladly, freely, heartily. R3604:4
Heart forgiveness leaves no sting, no animosity, no grudge. R2296:1
We should harbor no other feeling than that of forgiveness and good will
toward all, no matter how seriously they may have transgressed against us.
R2296:4
Not a lip-forgiveness and a heart-hatred. R1694:5
Forgive not -- God will be no more generous to you and your
imperfections than you are toward your brethren in their imperfections.
R4651:4
Let every Christian, in approaching the throne of grace daily, inquire of
his own heart whether or not he has forgiven those who are indebted to
him. R2253:4
Matthew 19
Matthew 19:6
Joined together -- As a type of the lasting union of Christ and the

Church. R1554:5
Matthew 19:9
Put away his wife -- Secure a divorce. F505

Except it be -- Adultery, or the re-marriage of a divorced person,
releases the wronged one from the obligation to the marriage tie. R5954:3
Separations for other grounds, while sometimes justifiable, do not give
one liberty to remarry. R3089:4; F505
Marry another -- Marriage is not cancelled by any earthly court to such
an extent as to permit marriage to another, except upon the one case
specified. F516
Committeth adultery -- The new creature's marriage contract is similar
to that of Christ and the Church, perpetual. F516
Matthew 19:10
Be so -- If the marriage covenant is so binding and indissoluble. R1554:5
Matthew 19:11
All men cannot receive this -- The advice to remain unmarried is not
imperative upon the saints. R1554:3
Matthew 19:12
Made themselves eunuchs -- Figuratively, by determining not to marry,

but to live celibate lives. F509 A privilege, a sacrifice in order to
render the better service to the Lord; not a command, not an obligation.
OV369:1
To both facilitate individual progress and the progress of the work in
general of the Lord. R1554:3, 901:4
It is for each one of the Church to consider his consecration and to
remember the example of Jesus who, by the power of his consecrated will,
became a eunuch for the Kingdom of heaven's sake. R3922:5; OV369:1
Thus it is proper for an unmarried man to be an elder. R1892:1
None should make the mistake, however, of supposing that the
responsibilities of a family already incurred can be ignored or set aside.
R901:4
After the marriage it is too late for one to decide for himself whether or
not he prefers to live a celibate life. F512
Contrary to Mormon teaching that man's future glory will depend upon
marriage and offspring. HG732:1
He that is able -- Both from his own disposition and from his
circumstances. R1555:1
Matthew 19:13
Rebuked -- Feeling that the Lord's time was too valuable to be thus
used. R5362:1
Matthew 19:14
Suffer -- Permit, allow. R5362:1

Little children -- The Great Teacher was a lover of children, even
though he did not generally give his time to them. R5362:1
Of such is the kingdom -- Those who will be of the Kingdom of God must
be like little children: simple-hearted, true, teachable, obedient, honest
and trustful of their heavenly Father. R4658:1, 4853:4, 5362:2
The Kingdom of heaven will not be literally composed of little children.
R4658:1
Matthew 19:15
Laid his hands on them -- Merely signified his sympathy and love and
appreciation of the purity and innocence of childhood. R4658:1
Matthew 19:16
Behold, one -- It has been supposed by some to have been Lazarus, whom
Jesus later awoke from the dead. R3529:1
Came and said unto him -- Notwithstanding the persecuting spirit of the
rulers and teachers in Israel against the Lord and all who believed in the
validity of his claim, he came to him openly. R1774:3
That I may have -- He perceived that even the best men of his nation had
failed to gain eternal life under this covenant; that all had died.
R2727:3, 1774:3
Eternal life -- He had the right idea, that eternal life is the grand
hope of all hopes before the human family. R4658:2
Matthew 19:17
Why callest thou me good -- Our Lord parried the question to draw out
the young man. R4658:2
Why do you acknowledge me as a good teacher? I am either the Messiah, as I
claim, or an impostor and far from good. Do you accept my Messiahship? If
you do not, how can you call me good? R4658:2
Unless you believe from the heart that I am the Son of God and not a
falsifier, hypocrite and blasphemer. R2727:6, 4658:2
If you really believe me to be good, you must believe in me as a teacher
sent of God, the All-Good. More than this, that I proceeded forth from
God, that I am the Son of God. R2727:6
One, that is, God -- And the "one sent of God." R2727:6
Everything that is really good is of God and in accordance with God.
R5465:2
Keep the commandments -- The only way to everlasting life then open.
R2728:1, 823:1
The Law Covenant was still in force. It had not yet been "nailed to the
cross." (Col. 2:14) R3843:2
Matthew 19:18
Do no murder -- Ignoring the commandments relating to Jehovah, realizing

that the young man was seeking to know and do the will of the true God.
R2727:1
Matthew 19:19
Love thy neighbor -- Delivered to Israel as a part of the Law (Lev.

19:18), the teachings of which, however, were never understood until Jesus
expounded them by his example and teachings. R2419:3
Our interests justly balanced with the interests of others. SM156:2
Who can love his neighbor as himself and see that neighbor suffer while he
has enough and to spare? R823:2
He loved self more than God or neighbor. R1774:6, 823:2
The young ruler evidently neglected to attach to these words their full
import. He was thinking of the more specific definitions of the law,
neglecting this more comprehensive statement. R3843:4
As thyself -- Which, in the present age, implies self-sacrifice and
daily cross-bearing in imitation of Christ. R1774:6
It does not say, "better than thyself." Christ's course of self-sacrifice
in our behalf went beyond this requirement. R3804:6, 3805:1
Matthew 19:20
Have I kept -- He was keeping the Jewish law to the extent of his
knowledge and ability. He was merely doing his duty. No one has a right to
live a bad life. R4658:3, 5438:6, 5464:2
He thought that he was loving his neighbor as himself. R4658:3
What lack I yet? -- He was anxious for a perfect conformity to the will
of God; and so anxious that he manifested his willingness to bear reproach
for it in thus coming to Jesus. R1774:6
Let this be the sincere inquiry of every child of God. R1775:4
There is none so perfect that he lacks nothing. R1775:4
Matthew 19:21
Wilt be perfect -- Reckoned of God as perfect and as having kept the

commandments. R823:3
You have been getting the outside shell of the divine commandment but have
entirely overlooked the kernel--love to God supremely and love toward your
fellow man as toward yourself. R2728:2
To keep the Law perfectly in this age requires sacrifice. To keep the Law
in the next age will not require sacrifice because of changed conditions.
R823:2
Sell that thou hast -- Use earthly things with great moderation and
self-denial. Q149:4
You must do more than merely avoid sin; God is now calling for
sacrificers. R5438:6
All thy possessions, all thy time, all thy reputation, all that hitherto
has been dear to thee. R1775:1
The poor man must give up the idols of his imagination and ambition, his
covetousness; the rich man must sacrifice, not only what he possessed, but
all for which he hoped. F575
He might have been kept busy for many years disposing of his goods. The
selling of that which he had would go on proportionately as he could find
use for the money. R855:4; F576
Dispose of your natural abilities and talents, wisely of course, for the
benefit of yourself, your family, and all who have need of such services.
R1656:3
Give to the poor -- Wisely, however, as becometh God's steward. F576;
R1775:1
Reckon yourself God's steward, commissioned by him to use all those goods,
as well as your personal talents, to his glory in serving those about you.
R855:1
Not necessarily with the bread that perisheth; but first, rather, to feed
the spiritually hungry with the bread of life. R1775:2
A consecration of our all to the Lord does not mean that all of our
possessions should be used exclusively in religious work. We have family
mortgages. F576
"Love is the fulfilling of the Law." (Rom. 13:10) R2728:2
Had he waited for Jesus to ask him for some of it he would have waited and
have kept the money and never have obtained the Kingdom. R855:4
Treasure in heaven -- Instead of on earth. R4658:3
Joint-heirship with Christ in the Messianic Kingdom; glory, honor and
immortality, the divine nature. R5438:6
More than the Law promised. R823:3
Reserved for all those who, like Jesus, keep the law in this age, when its
requirements amount to and imply a sacrifice even unto death. R823:3
And follow me -- Sacrifice also your earthly reputation and become my
follower. R4658:3
Taking up the cross of self-denial thus involved. R2728:2
Matthew 19:22
Went away sorrowful -- Evidently convinced that he yet fell short of the
requirement of the law. R823:2
He was content to be very rich while some of his neighbors, whom he
thought he loved as he loved himself, were very poor. R4658:4
He saw himself as never before. It became a new test with him. R4658:4
No doubt the heart of Jesus was sad also, when he saw the blight of
selfishness and self-will attacking that promising half-blown rose of
character. R1774:6
For centuries this has been called "The Great Refusal." R2727:3
His loss of the Kingdom was a sufficient penalty without suffering eternal
torment in the future. Such as he will doubtless make rapid progress to
perfection in the Millennium. R4658:4
Matthew 19:23
That a rich man -- With any kind of riches: honor of men, political
influence, many and large talents or abilities, social standing, fine
education, material wealth, mental endowment. R2728:5, 2761:2,3
The rich have temptations in the good things of this present life which
tend to attract their hearts and become their idols and treasures. F575
When one who is rich does present himself to the Lord, it implies a
greater sacrifice than if he were poorer, and the exercise of greater
opportunities in the Lord's service. R2729:1
Shall hardly -- With difficulty. R2761:2, 4658:5, 5465:6; D304
Because riches are less favorable to the development of faith, are more
likely to develop pride, bring with them worldly friends and associates,
and are proportionately more to sacrifice. R2729:1
It was hard for the Scribes and Pharisees, rich in titles and honors; for
the Jewish nation, proud of being Abraham's seed; for the Greeks, proud of
their worldly wisdom; for the Romans, proud of their prestige and power;
hard today for religionists, proud of their sects; for those who boast in
human philosophy and science and those who reverence the opinions of men.
R1920:2
In a word, no rich man can get into the Kingdom. He must give up
everything to the Lord or else be barred from a place in the Kingdom. The
terms of acceptance are the same for the rich as for the poor. R4658:5
Though difficult, it is not impossible. R1775:2
Enter into -- Equally invited, but less likely than others who are
poorer to accept the Lord's invitation and present themselves according to
the terms of the Kingdom call. R2728:6
Kingdom of heaven -- Certainly not the nominal church, for rich men find
little difficulty getting into it. R2761:3
In verse 24, "kingdom of God," proof that Matthew uses the expressions
interchangeably. R397:1
Matthew 19:24
The eye of a needle -- A small gateway of ancient cities, used at night;

camels could pass through unloaded, and on their knees only. D304; F574;
R4658:5, 5466:1; PD66/78
Rich man to enter -- The needle's eye illustrated how the rich must
unload their wealth if they would share the Kingdom. PD66/78; R4658:5,
5004:2
A rich man could enter the Kingdom of God only by renouncing his burdens,
giving up all to the Lord. R5466:1
The rich are disadvantaged because their wealth preserves them from many
trials to which the poor are subjected. R5004:2
Into the kingdom -- Become a joint-heir with Christ in his Messianic
Kingdom. R5004:2
Matthew 19:25
Exceedingly amazed -- Because they knew that the majority of the

religionists belonged to the wealthy class. R4658:5
Who then can be saved -- Since the rich seemingly had all the
opportunities of time, influence and money to serve the Lord. R5466:2
Matthew 19:26
With men -- Men would say that God would find no one for the Kingdom if
he rejected the rich. R4658:5
Are possible -- If the rich man's heart be pleasing to the Lord, the
Lord would know how to show him his will in respect to using his riches.
R5466:2
God knows how to overrule all things for good to those who love him with
all their heart, mind, soul and strength. R5466:4
God has made provision for the trial of the wealthy, and for all, in the
Matthew 19:27
Behold, we -- The twelve, especially. R1735:2

Forsaken all -- We need to watch that there is not a measure of
selfishness connected with our consecration. R4906:3,4
What shall we have -- If it had been wrong for them to have the promises
of Kingdom honors in mind, it would have been wrong for the Lord to have
given them these promises. R5376:1
Our thought of a share in the Kingdom should be secondary. Our merit
should be of a higher order than merely a desire for reward for service.
R4906:3
Matthew 19:28
That ye -- The Church, Head and Body, will be the judges. R2426:4
Which have followed me -- In the narrow way of self-sacrifice in the
present life. OV380:1
"To him that overcometh will I give to sit with me in my throne." (Rev.
3:21) R531:6
In the regeneration -- Greek, palingenesia, restitution, restoration,
renovation. R2574:4
Literally translated: "a new birth day." R1096:6*
The expression signifies to "give life again," but in no way implies that
it will be given in the same way as now. R1388:2; NS102:4
When the world is born from the dead. E142; CR472:2
The general regeneration of the Millennial age. E138; R4556:3; Q208:T;
OV380:1; PD9/16
A thousand years. OV380:5; NS844:5
That glorious moral, social, political, religious and physical change
which will be introduced by the Messiah. Q822:3
The same time which St. Peter styles the "times of restitution," the
Millennium, the times of "resurrection by judgment" (Acts 3:19-21; John
5:29, R.V.). R4556:3
The coming forth from the tomb will be merely the beginning of the work of
regeneration. OV381:7
The creating of man was a momentary act; but the re-creating, the
re-generation, the re-newing, the re-storing of his heart, will be a
gradual work. R1374:4
The regeneration of the world in the Millennium is separate and distinct
from that now possible to the Church. OV378:2; Q822:3; E138
This is the age of generation, the one to follow is the age of
re-generation. R351:1*, 342:2*
After the Church has experienced the new birth. Q822:3; NS102:3
He waits for his bride. The world cannot be regenerated until the Redeemer
first applies his merit, his ransom-price "for all the people." R4556:4;
E142
Son of man shall sit -- Rest securely. "His rest shall be glorious."
(Isa. 11:10) R1283:5*
Not in "masterly inactivity," but the very opposite. He is very active,
and his strength is equal to his activity. R1283:6*
During his Millennial reign. OV380:1
Figurative, indicating that the position of the Son of Man, invested with
all executive authority and power, has been established; and not merely
established, but permanently established. R1283:5*
In the throne -- A throne is the seat of a priest or king, and it is
often used as the emblem or symbol of sacerdotal or regal authority.
R1283:1*
Not merely first in executive authority, but first in executive power
also, in the accomplishment of the divine purpose regarding the salvation
of man. R1283:5*
Of his glory -- The glory of the divine nature. R1283:3*
The glory of our blessed Lord is of the same kind as that of the Most High
himself. R1283:4*
Ye also -- The Church glorified will be the judge. HG684:6
As Eve was associated with Adam in sin and disobedience, so the elect
Church, when completed, glorified, will be Christ's associate in the
regeneration. PD9/16
The glory which is peculiar to the divine nature, as well as judicial,
sacerdotal and regal authority, are to be jointly participated in, not
only by Jesus and his Apostles, but by all overcomers. R1284:4*
Sit upon twelve thrones -- Participate in the rulership. R1283:6*
The apostles shall be associates with him in judging and ruling the world.
R4990:4; OV379:5
Implying that they which have passed to that life would be in the
condition of the enthroned. R5684:1
Only twelve apostolic thrones, no more. OV410:1; SM670:1
This gives every apostle a throne. Not that the number of thrones is
restricted to twelve, or that he who is to occupy a throne must be of
necessity an apostle. Luke speaks of "thrones" without restricting them to
twelve or any definite number. (Luke 22:28-30) R1283:6*
All the Lord's faithful followers will have a share. "To him that
overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne." (Rev. 3:21) OV379:5
Judging -- Greek, krino, judgment or trial. R2430:1, 2426:4
Ruling. NS795:1
The whole world shall be judged, not again representatively, but
individually. R699:5
Matthew 19:29
Hath forsaken houses -- We are not to get the mistaken idea from this
that the Lord wishes us to sacrifice others. It would be wrong to deprive
our families of necessary comforts and temporal provisions; but having
provided these, the remainder is the Lord's. R3845:6
An hundredfold -- A reward a hundred times greater than that which we
lose. The greater our present losses, the greater our reward both now and
hereafter. Those who sacrifice nothing need expect no reward. Those who
receive little of the Lord in the present life and have small hope of a
share in the Kingdom are those who have sacrificed little for his sake.
R3845:2,3
Matthew 19:30
First shall be last -- In order of development, it was first the natural

or earthly, afterward the heavenly rulers; but in order of grandeur of
position and time of installation, it will be first the spiritual,
afterward the natural. A293; B206
Last shall be first -- In point of time, God called fleshly Israel
first; but in point of favor, and in time of realization, spiritual Israel
comes first. B206; A293
And also first in grandeur of position. A293; B206
The merit of Jesus' death was utilized first on behalf of the spiritual
elect. R5576:4
Some who have not been favored during this Gospel age will be granted the
chief favors during the coming age. F118 When the Kingdom is ushered in,
God's special favor will pass again to natural Israel. F118, 119
Adam and Eve will probably be the last to be awakened. The last to die
will probably be the first to be awakened. R4499:1, 5531:6; D641; SM441:T
Matthew 20
Matthew 20:1
The kingdom of heaven -- Hence we know that it applies to the

experiences of the Church during this Gospel age. R5473:2
We think it applies entirely to the present-life experiences of the
Kingdom class, especially to those living at the close of this age.
R5473:3; Q258:2
Is like unto -- This parable is difficult to interpret in such a way as
to make all of its facts find fulfillment. R5473:2; Q531:T, 258:3
We do not expect that every little feature will find a correspondency.
Some merely round out the story or call attention to some particular
feature. Q530:1
Early in the morning -- Some might say the call began in the days of
Jesus and the apostles, and that the various calls relate throughout the
Gospel age. Q258:2
To hire laborers -- Earnest, consecrated children of God throughout this
Gospel age. C223
To tend the vine, look out for the injurious pests, keep the soil in good
condition, and assist every way in the production of "much fruit" and of
fine quality. R4666:2
Into his vineyard -- To faithfully spend their time and energy in his
service. C223
The Church is God's vineyard. R214:2
Matthew 20:2
When he had agreed -- The promise of the Kingdom was clearly understood
by the early Church, but was afterward lost sight of. C223
A penny a day -- The Roman standard of the time; as the lira, mark,
franc, shilling and dollar are today's Italian, German, French, English
and American standards. R4666:4
In one of the old English cathedrals, records show that the chisel work
cost "a penny a day and a bag of meal for each laborer." R4666:4
From the Greek denarius, a silver coin of about 17 cents value. R4666:3,
3535:1
This giving of the penny seems to be on this side the veil. Q531:T
This parable is evidently intended to teach that God will give all that he
has agreed to all who labor. and more than he has stipulated. R4666:4
The Kingdom honors. C223
What the penny will be, I am not sure. Q258:3
Might be understood to refer to everlasting life, merely. Q530:1, 500:5
Would seem to be something of the joys, blessings, honors and privileges
of God's people in the present life at the close of this age. R4666:5
May be connected with the great work of smiting Jordan which, I think, is
the thing before us. Q531:T
Perhaps the reward the Lord would give those who are his, not only those
who are of the Little Flock, but also of the Great Company. Q500:3
As applied to the Jewish harvest, it represents the privilege of entering
the Kingdom of heaven, the privilege of discipleship. R5473:5
Matthew 20:3
The marketplace -- Greek, agora, root word of the word agorazo, to

purchase in the open market, translated redeemed. E429
Matthew 20:4
Go ye also -- During the Gospel age, our Lord has continually, through
his mouthpieces in the Church, invited all believers to enter into his
service. C224
Whatsoever is right -- The exact, clear understanding of what the wages
should be was mentioned only at the beginning. C223
The promise of the Kingdom was clearly understood by the early Church, but
afterward was in the main lost sight of and not clearly enunciated. C223
Matthew 20:6
The eleventh hour -- The last hour. C223

The very closing time of this Gospel age. Q258:2
5 p.m., only one hour before the labor of the day would cease. We are now
just at the close of the Gospel day. R214:2
We are even now (1889) in the eleventh hour. R1111:5
Apparently no others were admitted during the twelfth hour. Q74:4
And found others -- Perhaps 20,000 to 30,000 of the consecrated in 1881
did not prove faithful to their covenant of sacrifice and were replaced.
This process will continue until the last crown is everlastingly
apportioned. F95; R4304:1
Partly applicable, in the Jewish harvest, to some publicans and sinners
who had previously neglected God's service and labors in the vineyard.
R5473:5
Standing idle -- Waiting for an opportunity to enter the vineyard.
R4303:5; Q258:2
Matthew 20:7
Hath hired us -- We were too late to get into the service under the
call. C223, 224
Go ye also -- Some of the places in the work will be vacated by reason
of some not continuing faithful. C225
All were hired. There is so great a variety of work that all may find
employ. R214:3
Into the vineyard -- So long as the door of opportunity for service is
open. C224
And whatsoever is right -- These words, to the end of the verse, are not
in the old manuscripts. C224
I promise nothing. The general call is ended. The time is short. The time
for labor is nearly ended. C224
Who can tell the blessings which may flow from one hour's service under
God's direction? R214:3
Matthew 20:8
Call the laborers -- Only the faithful are represented by the laborers.
C223
Matthew 20:9
Penny -- Something of the joys, blessings, honors and privileges of

God's people in the present life at the close of this age. R4666:5
Eternal life, the reward of those who labored throughout the whole day, or
only an hour; to the Little Flock and to the Great Company. Q500:3
Matthew 20:10
Every man a penny -- Drawing attention to the fact that it was the same
reward to all--the prominent feature of the parable. Q530:1
Perhaps the only significance is to call attention to that fact and the
reason for the murmuring. Q530:1
Matthew 20:11
It -- The penny, representing eternal life. Q500:1,5

They murmured -- Whatever it shall signify will be something that will
yet be in the Church before we pass beyond the veil, because surely no one
would murmur on the other side. Q258:3, 531:T
Anyone who would be inclined to murmur against the Giver of all Good would
not be accounted worthy of a share in the Kingdom. R4666:5; Q530:1, 500:6,
259:T
It will mean that they were looking for the reward merely, and not
appreciating the privilege of being laborers with Christ and with the
Father. R4666:5
A warning to those long in the truth, with great privileges of service.
R4666:5
All who are servants should be praying to the Master to send other
laborers into the vineyard. They should not be feeling jealous of any
others who might come. R5474:1
Matthew 20:12
But one hour -- Similarly today some Christian people stumble over the
fact that the time is near at hand when God will pour out his spirit upon
all flesh. R4666:6
Made them equal -- The Scribes and Pharisees thought that, if publicans
and sinners were to be privileged to have discipleship with Messiah, some
still higher favor should come to themselves. R5473:5
Of the day -- This Gospel age. C223
Matthew 20:13
I do thee no wrong -- All who appreciate that God is just, generous and
bountiful, will rejoice in the blessings which overflow upon others.
R4666:5
Whatever God has to offer is a gift. R5473:6
Matthew 20:15
To do what I will -- In matters of grace or favor. R5069:4

Is thine eye evil -- A special test upon them as respects their loyalty
and their motives. R4666:6
Matthew 20:16
Last shall be first -- Some last and least found opportunity for
receiving the divine blessing sooner and more effectively. R5473:6
The first last -- Some first to respond to the call may be the last to
receive special blessings, testing their loyalty and motives. R4666:5,
5473:6
See comments on Matt. 19:30.
Many be called -- To the divine nature through opportunity to sacrifice.
R682:2
Not many are called in proportion to the whole, but many are called in
proportion to the number chosen, the few, the elect. R2508:1; HG746:1,
744:3
More are called and drawn by God's providences and the preaching of the
message than he designs to save in the present salvation. NS769:6
But few -- The approved. R779:3*
The terms and conditions of the present salvation are extremely difficult.
NS769:6
Not only was the Jewish nation a small nation amongst the others, but the
"very elect" out of that nation, the ancient worthies, was a very small
proportion of the whole. NS369:6
Chosen -- This does not make God partial. He was under no kind of
obligation to make any of the race immortal rulers. R779:3*
Matthew 20:18
They shall condemn him -- The priestly Sadducees, not the people, were
interested in having Jesus brought to trial for his open attack on the
priestly misrule, and they feared lest the Romans might hold them
responsible. R2420:1*
Matthew 20:20
With her sons -- James and John, supposed to have been Jesus' full
cousins. R3362:2
Matthew 20:21
Grant that these -- If it had been wrong for them to have the promise in
mind, it would have been wrong for the Lord to have given the promise.
R5376:1
On thy right hand -- And on the left, the two positions of chiefest
favor. R3362:2
Others might not care so much where they were placed, but James and John
would like to be close to the Master. R5091:1
Evidently thinking less of the glories of the Kingdom than of nearness to
the Master. R4487:3
The disciples were afflicted with a common ailment: love of honor of men
and also of honor of the Lord. R5375:6
It is possible that one of these positions is reserved for the Apostle
Paul. R3362:6
In thy kingdom -- There was no doubt in their minds that the Kingdom was
near. R5090:6
Matthew 20:22
Jesus answered -- From the few recorded words, we gather the drift of
the more extended conversation. R2072:2*
Ye know not -- At that time they could form no idea of the blessedness
of being joined with Christ in his Kingdom and glory, to sit with him in
his throne as his Bride and joint-heir. R2072:2*
What ye ask -- Jesus did not condemn them for this desire. R5786:4
You can form no idea of the blessedness of being joined with Christ in his
Kingdom and glory. R2072:2*
They little realized what this high privilege of sitting with him in the
Millennial throne would cost. NS755:4
When we consecrate ourselves we agree to do the Lord's will, but we do not
know what it means. R5081:5
Are ye able to drink -- Are ye willing to participate, to drink? 5599:2,
5538:5, 4547:2, R3362:3; Q188:T
The word "able," while it contains the thought of force, nevertheless
expresses willingness. It refers to the will. Not, Are ye physically
able?--but, Are ye mentally able? R5599:2
Of the cup -- Of shame, ignominy, suffering and reproach. R5599:3,
5421:3, 4669:1, 2292:4
Of self-denial and self-sacrifice with Jesus, participating in his
sacrifice. R4456:4, 5421:3-5, 5192:6, 4547:2,5, 4429:4; CR47:5
The earthly experiences of the Lord. R5538:6, 5599:5
Showing not only our interest in his sacrifice, but also expressing our
own covenant to be dead with him and to drink of his cup. R325:5
We are called to share the cup with him, thus partaking in symbol of his
death. R721:4
Does not symbolize justification, but only the justified may drink of it.
R4547:4
It is our individual cup, and yet it is our Savior's cup. R5538:5
"The cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?" (John
18:11) R3362:3, 5599:5
If we drink our Savior's cup of death with him, then we shall participate
with him in the future cup of joy. R4547:2, 5538:6; CR307:2
Our cup is supervised by our Savior, although it is the cup poured by the
Father; for it is the Father's program. We shall not be alone. R5422:1,
5538:5, 4547:2
Symbolizes the means of our sanctification, by which we exchange our
justified earthly rights for the heavenly inheritance and joint-heirship.
R4547:4
To lay down your lives completely, even though it shall mean injustice to
you. R5421:3
While this wine of sacrifice exhausts the human nature, it invigorates and
makes strong the spiritual nature. R588:3
I shall drink of -- Jesus was to drink of the cup which belonged to the
sinner, that he might redeem man. R5421:6
He drank the bitter cup to its dregs, thankfully. R5422:1, 5538:5
That cup was a terrible draft to him--not the dying, but the cross.
R5599:5, 5422:1
About to be poured for him. R5421:2
The same cup. He did not drink of one cup and we of another. R4475:2,
4547:2, 212:2*
Neither James nor John nor anyone else can sit on Christ's throne unless
he drinks of this cup. R4547:2, 4475:2
With the baptism -- The baptism of death. F438, 442; R4547:5, 4669:1,
5599:3, 1543:1; PD66/78
Into his sacrificial death. R4547:5
Signifying the complete surrender of self to God at any cost or privation
or suffering, even unto death. R2072:2*
I am baptized with -- Now, during the three and a half years of his
ministry. R5421:1
The sacrifice of all earthly interests. R4669:1
We are able -- We are willing. We will sacrifice everything to follow in
your footsteps. R3362:4, 5421:3,4, 5599:2, 5786:4
Let us make such a decision promptly, and think of it daily. R5607:3
They did not, of course, yet know the full import of the word "baptism" or
the word "cup." R5421:4
And we can do no more. If left to ourselves, undoubtedly the contract
would be more than we would be sufficient for, but our sufficiency is of
God's providence. NS755:4
Our Lord was evidently gratified with their promptness to make the
consecration, declaring themselves willing to endure the cross to win the
crown. R2292:4
They had counted the cost and promptly responded as to their willingness.
R4669:2
They were ready for anything, with the Master's help. PD66/78
Not a boast on their part, but a simple declaration of their decision to
obey and follow the Lord's footsteps in whatever circumstances might
arise. R5607:3
And so with us. Our wills are made up. There is not a doubt--nothing to
interfere. R5599:3
Matthew 20:23
Ye shall drink -- The apostles could not actually drink of the

Redeemer's cup until he, as their Advocate, should appear in the presence
of God for them. R4547:5
Jesus guaranteed that, being willing, they should have these experiences;
continuing willing, continuing to suffer with him here, they should reign
with him in his throne. R5421:4, 4669:2, 2292:5
Those who drink will share with him in the glories of the future. R5607:3
Jesus, in turn, pledged that they should indeed be able to carry it out.
R2292:4
He assured them and us that he will furnish trials and assistances, and
that, if faithful to the end, we shall have a crown of life. PD66/78
There is no doubt--if we follow in the footsteps of Jesus, a life of
obedience, we shall suffer. R212:1*
It is hard that our good should be evil spoken of, that we should be
declared to be poisonous to every religious sentiment. This is a part of
our experience. R5599:5
My cup -- Styled the blood of the New Covenant, New Testament, New Will.
R4436:2
Of suffering or ignominy. R5607:3, 4555:5, 2292:4
Share with him in his sacrifice--not a different cup, not a different
sacrifice. R4475:2
The merit of Jesus is the only merit which cancels the sins of the whole
world; but it is applied indirectly through the Church. This is the favor
he specially offers them. R648:6
The same cup represented in the Communion service. R5421:3, 4555:5
Also signifies a share in his glories, honors and immortality, the new
wine with him in the Kingdom. R5192:6
Those who drink of his cup are specially loved of the Father. R5607:3
And be baptized -- If we have indicated our willingness, we have his
promise that the ability will be supplied. R445:1
Sit on my right hand -- Be associated thus intimately with me on my
throne. R2072:2
Not mine to give -- Will not be given according to favor, but according
to justice. R5786:4; PD66/78
Positions in the Kingdom of heaven will be awarded according to the degree
of development of the fruits of the holy Spirit. This means a love which
will lead to zeal in the Lord's service. Q121:3
Be given to them -- Possibly Paul and John. F726
For whom it is prepared -- Reserved for overcomers. At that time it yet
remained to be proved whether these would be faithful to their covenant.
R2072:2*
Of my Father -- According to the standards which the Father has prepared
and established. R4669:2
Matthew 20:25
Jesus called them -- In answering the ten, he did not reprove the two
specifically, but indirectly. R4669:2
Exercise dominion -- The Gentiles exercise authority over their people
at the expense of the ruled. R5375:6
With men, the aggressive and powerful hold the lordship and dominion over
others, but in the divine arrangement the order is reversed. R4669:4
The great success of Papacy's rise to power, accomplished by cunning,
trickery and political intrigue, was wholly foreign to the spirit of true
Christianity. R1093:5
Exercise authority -- The Church of Christ has probably suffered more
from pride and ambition for leadership than from any other one cause.
R1883:6
Many have lorded it over God's heritage; our Lord had this class in mind.
R5375:6
Matthew 20:26
Not be so among you -- With the followers of Christ there is not to be a

spirit to dominate, to rule others, but a spirit of love, which seeks to
serve others. Q119:6
There should be no rulership, lordship or masteries amongst those whom the
one Master, even Christ, has put upon a common level. R1883:6
But it has been so in the Papacy. F230; R1523:5
Be your minister -- Greek, diakonos, deacon, servant. F253
The highest position in Christ's Church was to be servant, and he declared
himself to be the chief servant or minister of the Church. R1883:6
Matthew 20:27
Whosoever -- Of his disciples, the Lord's people. R5793:1

Will be chief -- Teachers, instructors of the flock. R5321:3
Someone is bound to be chief. An absolute equality is not possible.
R5793:1, 5322:4; Q119:7
We should leave to God's attendance the matter of honor, and be content
merely to be a servant to the brethren. R5793:2
Our Lord had been pointing out to his disciples a certain weakness on
their part. R5793:1,2
A person without any ambition never amounts to anything. R5793:2, 5321:3;
Q120:3
A certain kind of ambition, to please God and have his rewards, is
encouraged by the exceeding great and precious promises of God's Word.
R4668:3
Nevertheless, the ambitions awakened by these promises, we are warned,
might become our snares. R4669:1
To guide the Church. R5793:2
The Apostle Paul says that those who desire the office of a bishop are
desiring a good thing. (1 Tim. 3:1) Q120:5
The Lord does not raise up rulers in the body of Christ, but he does raise
up faithful leaders, to whom heed should be given, whose faith and example
should be imitated. R1559:4
God made Jesus a chief. He passed by Satan, who was self-seeking. After
Jesus proved his humility, then the Father gave him the high exaltation.
R5322:5
We are not to help one who aspires to the chief place into that position.
This would do injury both to him and the cause. R5322:4
Be your servant -- He who renders the greatest amount of service and
brings the greatest spiritual blessing, consider him your chief. R5793:2
The chief honor amongst the Lord's brethren is to be servant. The one most
faithful should be given opportunity to serve. In that sense, he would be
your chief. R5322:5
Honor those most in the Church who serve the Church, not those who demand
service, honors and exaltation. R4669:4
A bishop at that time was a humble, untitled servant of the Church, caring
for the interests of the sheep. Q120:5
We are to lay aside any desire to be chief so far as ambition for personal
glory is concerned. R5793:3; Q120:4
Not of a spirit to dominate, to rule others. R5793:1
Serving in any way, in the most capable manner possible. R5793:2
This does not mean that we have no aspirations. The controlling impulse is
to serve the Church. R5322:4
Let the Lord take care of your place of service; let him open the way.
R5322:2
Matthew 20:28
Even as -- Pointing to his own course as an illustration. R4669:4

The Son of man -- No longer on the spirit plane, but on the human plane.
R5786:1; Q368:2
The requirement was that he become a man in order to ransom mankind. He
could ransom man only by becoming man. R5786:1, 3088:2
Came not -- Before coming into the world, our Lord had perceived that
mankind was in need of a Savior. No doubt this had to do with his
accepting the divine arrangement. R5375:2
To be ministered unto -- Not that our Lord refused to have anyone serve
him, but he came to render a service. R5375:3
Not to be served, honored or titled. R1711:1
He did not come into the world to have servants and get all that he could.
R5375:3
The difference between himself and other kings. R5785:3
He did not try to use his power, his intelligence, selfishly for his own
comfort; but he laid down his life unselfishly. R5375:2
But to minister -- The true meaning of the word "minister" is one who
serves. R5785:3, 5375:2
To serve others. E426; F230; R5375:2,3, 5785:3
In the service of his Church, which is his body. R5250:3
Because it was helpful service, and was the Father's will. R5375:5
Illustrating the spirit of meekness, of service, which must characterize
the hearts and, in some degree, control the lives of all his true
disciples. R4669:5
The privilege of serving the fallen race as their Redeemer and Restorer
was one of the rewards the Father set before His Son. NS751:3
Lord of all, yet servant of all. R1063:2*
He set himself forth as an example: all disciples must manifest so great
loyalty to the principles of God's government, and so great humility of
spirit, that they would be glad to render service to anyone in need.
R5376:1
The spirit of Christ will be the spirit of service: a zeal, a warmth, an
energy, prompting us to serve in the Church. R5250:2
Our ministry begins at the time of our consecration. We are not authorized
to minister in holy things until we have entered upon the way the Lord
pointed out to us. R5785:6
And to give -- The object in becoming a man was to redeem men, to taste
death for every man. R507:1, 145:1*
He came not to preach and write books. Others, under inspiration, could do
those things. But he alone had an unforfeited life to give for the life of
the world. R3234:3
The serving of Jesus' ministry and the example of obedience and
self-denial, though blessed to those of his day and to others since, was
not all there was to Jesus' life. R851:6
Becoming a man did not pay our ransom price. E426
The human existence of Jesus, our ransom, our substitute, was surrendered
to everlasting death; but he lives as a divine being to restore purchased
mankind. R823:5
Otherwise his death would have been contrary to God's will, a suicide and
a sin. R1213:3*
He could not rise from the dead as a human being, as flesh, his flesh
being given once for all and forever for the life of the world. NS3:6
His life -- Greek, psuche, soul, being. E335; R851:6, 62:1*
The death of Christ secures for Adam and all of his race one full
opportunity for salvation. R4594:4
His being or existence in the condition he then possessed it, life or
existence as a human being. The human Jesus gave himself, his life, a
ransom for all. R823:4, 726:3*, 53:4*; NS3:6
His life to secure life for condemned sinners. R1086:3
Not his pre-human life, for he did not die to become man, but he said,
"Before Abraham was, I am." (John 8:58) R1298:6*
A ransom -- Greek, lutron-anti, a price to correspond. E428; R5925:1,
5622:6, 4426:1, 4352:2, 3088:2, 1256:2, 387:3; SM269:1
Greek, lutron, a price. R408:1*
A substitute. R1256:2, 965:4
Exchange. R432:4
Not only the English words "ransom, bought, redeem" mean "the giving of
one thing instead of, or as a substitute for another," but also the Greek
words which these are used to translate. R432:4
The word "ransom" is used in respect to the purchase-price of humanity and
also in connection with the deliverance of mankind after having been
purchased by that price. R4818:3
The word occurs but three times in the Greek (here and in Mark 10:45 and 1
Tim. 2:6) and signifies to recover by paying a price; intensified in
Timothy to signify a corresponding price. R867:3, 145:1*
His death was the ransom which justifies all mankind to life, not the
sufferings of Gethsemane, nor the weariness of his three-and-a-half year
ministry. R392:6 Corroborating the declaration that man was under a
sentence of death and needed to be ransomed from it. R5465:1
Jesus was the only one who could be the corresponding price for Adam.
R5622:6
None other than the man Jesus. PT386:3*
Our Lord's first statement of the philosophy of the divine plan by which,
as Abraham's seed, he would bring the promised blessing. R4352:2
His death was a free-will sacrifice. He could have sustained life as a
perfect man forever. R463:6
The word here used also indicates the deliverance of mankind after
purchase: "I will ransom them from the power of the grave." (Hos. 13:14)
R4818:3, 726:3*
Without the ransom there could be no resurrection of the dead. R5465:1
The ransom-price that Jesus gives has been a progressive matter and is not
yet completed. R5622:3
To view our Lord as merely an example for proper living would be an
absurdity. SM269:1
The work of ransoming Adam and his race is much more than merely providing
the ransom-price. It includes their delivery from the power of sin and
death. R5873:2, 4818:6
Prefigured and elaborated upon in the types and shadows of the Law to
Israel. R4352:2
The Master tells how he gained the right to loose the prisoners of sin and
death from the tomb, and to offer life, restitution, to all for whom life,
and everything, had been lost. R866:4
For many -- For all. SM269:1
The principal meaning of the word "for" is "instead of," as a substitute
or representative stands for, or "instead of," those whom he represents.
R588:5
Matthew 20:30
Two blind men -- Bartimeus was one of the two. (Mark 10:46) R2729:3
Thou son of David -- "The Lord shall give him the throne of his father
The long-promised king of David's line, the Messiah. PD65/77; C257; E130;
SM210:2
Matthew 20:31
Rebuked them -- When the spiritually blind cry for help, there are sure
to be some, even amongst the Lord's friends, to rebuke instead of
encourage them. R2730:4
Matthew 20:32
Called them -- Giving those about him an opportunity to share in the

work of blessing. R2729:3
What will ye -- Many today, when asked this question, do not choose as
wisely, but request riches, honor of men and temporal blessings. R3848:4
Matthew 20:34
Received sight -- Only the Great Physician is able to open the eyes of
the understanding. R2730:4
It is not in our power to open the eyes of the physically blind, but it is
in our power to help many into a clearer insight into the things of God,
which the natural eye hath not seen. R4669:5
Matthew 21
Matthew 21:1
And when -- Just five days before his crucifixion, on the exact day when
he should have been received as the Lamb of God so that they might be
passed over as a nation and become the antitypical Levites, from whom
would come the antitypical priests. R4669:2, 839:2, 465:5; NS74:5, 630:6
Bethpage -- A little village on the Mount of Olives. R3850:2
Matthew 21:2
Over against you -- Another village close by. R3850:2

Ye shall find -- Manifesting his superhuman power by designating where
and how the animals would be found. R2745:3
An ass -- Probably a white one, for it is reputed to have been the
custom of the kings of Israel to ride upon white asses. R4669:5, 3850:2,
2745:3; SM400:2; NS629:6
And a colt -- Its little colt. R4669:3, 3850:2
Bring them -- The owner of the animals may have been acquainted with
Jesus and, if so, would also have been acquainted with his disciples.
R3850:2
Has no bearing on the question of the rights of private property. All
things belong to God and have their legitimate and illegitimate uses.
R1695:6
Matthew 21:4
Might be fulfilled -- It was necessary that our Lord should do literally

what the prophets had foretold, so that Israel might be without excuse in
their rejection of him. R3850:6, 2296:3; B225
By the prophet -- Fulfilling two prophecies: Isa. 62:11 and Zech. 9:9.
R3850:5
Matthew 21:5
Thy King cometh -- "He is Lord of lords and King of kings." (Rev. 17:14)
B238
He also presented himself to them as Bridegroom (John 3:29) and Reaper
(John 4:35,36), the same three characters which he presents now to the
Christian house. B238
The entry was viewed from three standpoints: for the disciples and
multitude, full of Messianic expectation, it was a grand occasion and a
real triumph; from the standpoint of Herod, Pilate and the authorities, it
was merely the parade of a fanatical leader; from the standpoint of the
Lord, the angels and ourselves, it foreshadowed his coming glory and
triumphal entry upon his return from the far country of heaven. R2745:5
The formal presentation and rejection was so that God's judgment would not
only be just, but its justice would be apparent to his creatures. R2296:5;
NS630:3
Though he knew the result, this action was performed as a part of that
great system of types which foreshadowed good things to come. R1795:2
In the parallel of time, he must offer himself to spiritual Israel, at the
appointed time, as their King of Glory. NS632:2
"Even today do I declare that I will render double unto thee." (Zech.
9:12) B225
Natural Israel waited 1845 years for the Lord to come; the corresponding
date for spiritual Israel is 1878 AD. R3851:3, 2746:5, 1795:2; C233, 234
This exercise of kingly power and authority in the spring of AD 33
typified the raising of the sleeping saints in AD 1878. C233
As a King, he is now taking possession of his Kingdom--first, as with the
Jews, offering himself to his professed people--but now, as then, finding
only a remnant. R2297:2
This message has proven to be the test to both the fleshly and the
spiritual houses of Israel. C136
Meek -- Whereas he was meek and lowly of heart, they were proud and
boastful; whereas he was pure and unselfish, they were impure and
self-seeking. R3850:6
Upon an ass -- After the manner of Israel's kings. PD66/77
See comments on verse 2.
Matthew 21:7
Put on them -- As a saddle. R3537:6

Set him thereon -- A lesson for spiritual Israel at the end of this age,
because the history of natural Israel was typical of spiritual Israel's
Matthew 21:8
Great multitude -- A million or more Jews in Jerusalem hailed him as

King. R5331:3
Not only from every quarter of Palestine, but from Babylon, Egypt, Greece
and Spain. R3537:3
We cannot suppose that they were all saints, though doubtless many of them
were sympathizers with Jesus. R3851:1
Thus selecting its Paschal Lamb on the 10th of Nisan. F461
Spread their garments -- A custom amongst various peoples for long
centuries to thus treat their honored rulers. R3851:1, 2745:3; NS629:2
As marks of honor to the great King whom they imperfectly, indistinctly,
recognized, not realizing the still greater glory of his later revealing
at the end of this age. R4669:6, 3538:1, 2296:2
Garments of praise. R3538:6
Their hearts were right; they had not been spoiled by doubts. So with the
Lord's people today, in the simplicity of our hearts we see his promises
and are ready to believe them. R3538:2
Cut down branches -- From nearby date palm trees, fernlike in shape and
sometimes ten feet long, symbols of rejoicing and honor. R3538:1
Implying that the best of earth was not too good for one so great. PD65/77
Branches of such victories as can be gained on behalf of the Truth in
conflict with the world, the flesh and the devil. R3538:6
Strawed them -- After our Lord's beast had walked over them, they went
ahead with these and strewed them afresh, in every way seeking to honor
the one whom God had so signally recognized. R3538:1
Matthew 21:9
And that followed -- Two multitudes--one who had come with him from
Jericho and lodged in Bethany over the Sabbath, and another from Jerusalem
who had come forth to see him and Lazarus. R2745:3
Hosanna -- An acclaim of praise, confidence and expectancy, very closely
resembling the word Hallelujah. R3538:2
Their unstable and fickle minds, swayed by false teachers and unwilling to
act upon convictions in the face of opposition, would, only a few days
later, cry, Crucify him! Crucify him! R1795:2, 1696:4; NS630:3
The son of David -- The King of the royal line, probably being deterred
from using the word "king" lest they should bring upon themselves charges
of treason against Herod and the Roman Empire. R2745:3
The long-promised king of David's line, the Messiah. PD65/77; SM210:2;
E130; C257; NS631:6
"The Lord will give him the throne of his father David." (Luke 1:32) C257
So we, today, hail him Messiah and proclaim ourselves believers in him.
This is justification by faith. Hence, Palm Sunday may be considered as
symbolizing the attainment of justification by those who recognize Jesus.
NS631:6
Blessed is he -- As truly and as necessarily as there was shouting and
rejoicing then, so there is and must be now. R1795:5
Name of the Lord -- Jehovah. PD65/77
Matthew 21:11
The multitude -- Josephus tells us that sometimes the population of

Jerusalem, on such an occasion, was swelled to the number of two millions.
R4122:6, 3537:3
Nazareth of Galilee -- Not highly esteemed among men and in religious
circles; thought to be rather peculiar at very best. R3538:6
Matthew 21:12
Into the temple -- Not to Herod's palace or to Pilate's palace; but, as the
representative of God, the Messiah, he went appropriately to the Father's
house or palace, the Temple. R2746:3
The temple, built by Herod, was only a type of the Church of the living
God, either in future glory or in present humiliation. R3851:5
Typifying the cleansing of the consecrated Temple class since 1878; every
selfish, carnal thought, and all worldliness, must be cast out, that the
Temple may be clean, the dwelling-place of God's holy Spirit. B239;
R4123:2, 2746:6, 1696:1
And cast out -- As any Law-abiding Jew was privileged to do. R2746:4,
3851:4, 4123:2
Beginning to exercise power, as befitting a spiritual king, by reproving
those who were violating the holy Temple and its precincts. R2746:3, 1695:6
It is assumed, we believe without sufficient authority, that there were
two cleansings. R4122:3, 2332:1; 1695:3
He had visited the Temple time and again as a Jew and had witnessed these
same scenes, but had not interfered, a proof that the occurrence took
place but once--after our Lord had assumed the office of King. R4123:2
It is but reasonable to suppose that the use of force in cleansing the
Temple followed, and did not precede, the assertion of regal authority
shown in the triumphal entry. R2332:1
The last verse of John's account, like the other Gospels, shows the
hostile attitude of numerous opponents which did not appear in the
beginning of his ministry. R1695:3
Fulfilling the prophecy, "The zeal of thine house hath consumed me." (Psa.
69:9) R4670:4, 4123:2
As a typical act, indicating that, in the end of this age, judgment begins
with the professed house of God. (1 Pet. 4:17) R1795:5
In the end of the Gospel age, God purposes a cleansing of his sanctuary,
the Temple-- Christendom. (Dan. 8:14) R3851:5
Those associated with the Lord's work for selfish reasons must be driven
out. R3851:6
Necessary before the Temple shall be ready to be filled with the glory of
God and become the place of prayer for all nations. R2297:4
All them that sold -- The antitypical cleansing, now in progress, mainly
affects those who make merchandise of holy things. R3851:6
In the temple -- They had no right within its hallowed precincts. R4760:4
Not in the Temple proper, but in its outer courts, the whole of which was
designated the Temple or house of God. R4123:1
The tables of -- Not only stopping their usurious exchange business, but
keeping them busy looking after their coins. R4123:2
The moneychangers -- Typifying those who rob the people by accepting
money for that which is not food. R3851:6
Reaping a profitable harvest from the worshippers who had traveled from a
distance, whose money, not being Jewish, could not be accepted at the
Temple. R2746:3
A certain Temple tax must be paid in the "shekel of the sanctuary" which
was last coined in BC 140, hence quite scarce in our Lord's day and sold
at a premium. R4122:6
Today in the nominal temple some make merchandise of their privileges,
opportunities and knowledge. Catholics are led to believe they can present
nothing acceptable except through the priests; Protestants have regular
collection plates and frequent strong appeals for money. R4123:3
The seats of them -- He did not set at liberty the doves, which could
not easily have been recovered, but permitted their owners to take them
away. R4123:2
That sold doves -- Multitudes of strangers from afar rarely brought with
them the doves, pigeons or lambs which they presented in sacrifice. R4122:6
Matthew 21:13
House of prayer -- The channel though which all mankind may, during the
Millennial age, find access to God. R2297:5
A den of thieves -- Taking advantage of the necessities of the people.
R4123:1
The thief usually poses as an honorable man; the same is the case with
many Christian ministers, teachers and elders. R3852:1
Robbing God by detracting from his honor; robbing the people by taking
from them money and honors while selling them bread which is not
spiritually satisfying. R3852:2
Of this class are evolutionists, who rob God and receive the money of the
people under false pretense. R3852:1
Matthew 21:14
The blind and the lame -- He cast out the wrong-doers and received the
poor outcasts of society. R2296:5
Everywhere we find that earthly wisdom is apt to misinterpret divine
promises. Frequently, therefore, the Lord makes use of the weak, poor and
ignorant instead. R3852:5
He healed them -- Continuing the healing and teaching for several days,
but without any further demonstration as a King. R2746:4
Typifying the opening of the blind eyes and the healing of the spiritually
lame, particularly since 1878. R2746:6, 1795:5
Matthew 21:15
And the children -- Little, uninstructed children. R3538:6

Little children and those who, in simplicity of heart and meekness, become
as little children, become the instruments the Lord uses in shouting his
praises. R2746:4
Typifying the Lord's little ones in the present harvest whose praises will
fill the true Temple of God. R2746:4, 3852:4,5
Crying in the temple -- Doubtless without any particular meaning. R3852:4
Were sore displeased -- Typifying the displeasure of the clergy at the
present time because of the harvest message now being proclaimed. R2746:6
Matthew 21:16
Babes and sucklings -- Out of the mouths of the common people. R1796:6
Matthew 21:17
Into Bethany -- Throughout the week he made Bethany his home, going
daily to the city and returning at night. Bethany was about two miles
distant from the Temple. R3850:2, 2746:4
Matthew 21:19
A fig tree -- The Jewish nation. "Now learn a parable of the fig tree."
D602, 604; R750:3, 127:1*
For ever -- "To the age." (Diaglott) R127:1*
"Cursed to the age"--during the Gospel age, as a nation, they have borne
no fruit, but when the Bride is taken out from the Gentiles, they will
receive favor. (Acts 15:14,16) R127:3*
Matthew 21:21
If ye have faith -- Absolute confidence in the Word of God. R5446:4

Unto this mountain -- Symbol of difficulties and obstructions in our
Christian course. R1967:5; Q774:3
A mountain-moving faith would count for nothing without love as a basis.
R2203:3
Be thou removed -- God gave no such command in respect to the literal
mountains. R5446:4
Since there is no basis of evidence that the will of God is to remove
literal mountains, a genuine faith in his willingness to do it is an
impossibility. R1967:5
Cast into the sea -- Swallowed up in anarchy. D596
It shall be done -- If they had faith in the power of God, and received
a command from him to move the mountain. R5446:4
Matthew 21:22
Ye shall ask -- God's children are cautioned to ask only such things as
he has promised in his word. R2005:4
Ye shall receive -- It must be understood that all petitions would be
subjected to divine wisdom. Therefore, the answers, though always sure,
might not always be in the way expected. R1866:1
Matthew 21:23
By what authority -- The apostles' authority was questioned by the same

class. Should persecution rise again, let all continue to preach as did
the early Church, asking no other authority than the command of the Lord.
R992:6
"He that hath my Word, let him speak my Word." (Luke 23:28) OV158:4
This authority -- Authority to teach and do good. OV158:3
Matthew 21:24
I also will ask -- Mark the wisdom of his replies when they sought to
entrap him in his words. R575:2
Matthew 21:28
First -- Represents the class of Israelites who made no pretense of

serving God, and were branded publicans, sinners, and harlots. R4678:3
Matthew 21:29
I will not -- They made no pretense of serving God. R4678:3 Repented,

and went -- Through John's message and the teachings of Jesus and the
apostles, the publicans, sinners and harlots were the ones ready to
receive him. R4678:3, 2755:6
Matthew 21:30
Second -- Represents the outwardly religious and pious, the Scribes and
Pharisees. R4678:2, 2755:6
Corresponding to the "elder son" of the parable of the prodigal son. (Luke
15:11-32) R1958:3
Do not really seek the divine service, but rather serve their own sects,
personal aims, honor, etc. R4678:2
Matthew 21:31
Go into the kingdom -- Poor, self-righteous Pharisees! To this day, they

are jealous and will not "go in." (Matt. 23:13) R1460:4, 1035:5
Before you -- The "elder son" class who had cultivated a spirit of pride
and boastfulness. R1958:3
"The common people [who knew not the Law and had not heretofore heard the
invitation] heard him gladly" (Mark 12:37); but those first invited were
rejected. R342:6
Matthew 21:33
Another parable -- Forming a part of the Lord's discourse on the last

day of his public ministry. R1982:2
Apparently our Lord had in mind the parable of the vineyard of Isa. 5:1-7
when he gave this parable. R2904:1, 1982:3, 1896:2, 1795:3
Nearly all parables related to the Kingdom; some directly, others, as this
one, indirectly. R5504:3
A certain householder -- Jehovah. R1982:3, 4678:3, 5504:6, 2755:6, 1795:3
Planted a vineyard -- "For the vineyard of the Lord of hosts is the
house of Israel." (Isa. 5:7) R1982:3
The Jewish nation, typifying Christendom. R1982:3, 1983:1, 4678:3,5,
5504:3, 1795:3
Since nominal fleshly Israel was a prototype of nominal Christendom, we
may look for somewhat similar conditions and dealings in the harvest of
this Christian age. R4678:2
In all respects well-appointed and furnished for his purpose. R4678:3
The vineyard represents the Jewish polity, and the vine represents the
people, especially such as were in influence and power--the leaders.
R2904:1
With a root of promise, a hope, the promise made to Abraham. R5504:3
And hedged it -- With the divine Law, the prophecies, and special
supervision and guardianship. R1795:3
With the divine promise that as long as Israel would be faithful and loyal
to God, they would be thoroughly protected against their enemies. R5504:3
Digged a winepress -- Including the trough in which the grapes were
pressed, and the vat for the reception of the juice pressed from them.
R1795:3
The various advantages conferred upon Israel, such as the worship of the
sanctuary, the leadings of Jehovah, and the teachings of the prophets, all
of which should have caused the vine to yield a large increase. R1795:6
Built a tower -- A watch tower, representing the prophets. R1795:6
The watchmen were the prophets who cried aloud and warned the people from
time to time in respect to any and every breaking down of the wall or
partition. R5504:3
The Lord declared himself to be Israel's High Tower. R5504:3
To the husbandmen -- The scribes and Pharisees, who sat in Moses' seat.
R2756:1, 5504:6, 4678:3, 1982:3
Whose duty it was to care for the vines and fruitage, and render an
account. R4678:3
Whose duty it was to instruct and lead in the way of the Lord. R1795:6
Into a far country -- Implies that the arrangement was intended to stand
for a long time. R5504:5
To receive title to his Kingdom, and to return to take possession of it.
(Matt. 25:14,31) SM693:2; NS855:6
Matthew 21:34
Time of the fruit -- Which the Lord had a right to expect from Israel.
R1796:1, 5504:6
The appointed harvest time in which those addressed were then living.
R1795:6
These husbandmen had this stewardship from the time of the exodus down to
the time of the coming of Messiah, a period of nearly nineteen centuries.
R1982:3
Sent his servants -- Prophets and teachers. R4678:3, 1982:5, 5504:6,
1796:1
These servants (the prophets) and their messages became tests as respected
the love, devotion and loyalty of the vine-dressers, and tests also of the
character-development of the people of Israel. R5504:6
To the husbandmen -- The rulers in Israel, because of their influence
and power, were held specially responsible for the course of the nation,
though this did not relieve the individuals of their responsibility.
R1796:1
The fruits of it -- Gratitude, love, obedience, meekness, teachableness.
R1795:6, 4678:4
Expecting that, through their inability to keep the Law, they would become
stronger in character, more reverential and loyal to God, more desirous
for the real Kingdom. R5504:6
"He looked for judgment, but behold oppression; for righteousness, but
behold a cry." (Isa. 5:7) R1982:3
Matthew 21:35
Husbandmen took -- Today also we see some high in official positions as

representatives of God who use their positions to entrench themselves,
hold power over the people, and carry out their own schemes. R4678:6
His servants -- The scribes' and Pharisees' pride prompted the
mistreatment of the Owner's special representatives, the prophets.
R4678:5, 5505:1
Beat one -- Reasoning that to acknowledge these servants and their
reproofs would mean to acknowledge that they themselves were merely
vine-dressers and not the owners. R5505:1
Killed another -- Today they behead in the sense of ostracism, and shoot
out the arrows of bitter words and slanders. R4678:6
The prophets were stoned, beaten, murdered, sawn asunder, became
wanderers, and dwelt in dens and caves. (Heb. 11:36-38) R4678:4
Matthew 21:37
His son -- Our Lord Jesus. R1982:5, 5505:1, 1796:1

His claim to be the Owner's son was backed by numerous signs which the
people were disposed to recognize. R5505:2
They will reverence -- Though God knew it would be otherwise, it is so
expressed to show the reasonableness of such expectations. R1796:1, 5505:1
Matthew 21:38
The husbandmen -- The chief priests and rulers. R1796:1, 5504:5

Among themselves -- Privately and deceitfully. R1796:1
This is the heir -- This man claims to be the Messiah. R1796:1
Let us kill him -- His death was necessary for the success of their
theories and plans, because his theories and teachings were so different
from theirs. R5505:3
Seize on his inheritance -- Retain our prestige and power. R1796:1,
1982:6
Lord it over God's heritage. R4678:5
Acting as though they were the real owners and not merely the Owner's
servants. R5504:6
Not realizing that this course was the very one which would lead to the
destruction of that typical kingdom, that typical vineyard. R5505:3
Matthew 21:39
Cast him out -- Whatever the reasons for thinking the other prophets
deceivers, none of these arguments would hold against the Owner's son,
whose credentials were manifest in his holiness. R5505:2
Slew him -- Thus Jesus foretold his own violent death. R5505:3
Matthew 21:41
Miserably destroy -- God's judgments came upon the Jewish nation, with
the result that it was entirely overthrown in the year 70 AD. R5505:4
His vineyard -- Putting into it only the true vine, inspired with faith
and loyalty toward God. "I am the true vine and ye are the branches."
(John 15:1,2) R5505:5 Other vineyards have been started. The Bible speaks
of two--"the vine of my Father's right-hand planting" (Isa. 60:21), and
"the vine of the earth" (Rev. 14:18). R5505:5
Other husbandmen -- Jesus and the apostles, and other teachers of the
Gospel Church. R1982:6, 2756:1, 5505:4, 4678:5
Dispossessing the scribes and Pharisees. R4678:5
Matthew 21:42
The stone -- The top stone, Christ Jesus, the head stone of God's
building, pattern for the whole, a stone of stumbling and rock of offense.
C329, 330; R1982:6, 4678:6, 5505:6
The builders -- The priests and Pharisees. C329
Rejected -- By the Jews. R5505:6
Fleshly Israel failed to accept Christ as their headstone, and hence were
rejected from being the special house of God. C329
Is become -- Though rejected by them, that would not hinder its
exaltation in God's due time as the chief stone in the glorious spiritual
Temple of God. R1982:6
Head of the corner -- The building of God being referred to as a
pyramid, of which the top stone is the chief corner stone. (Psa. 118:22;
Zech. 4:7) R1982:6; C329
Matthew 21:43
The kingdom of God -- The Kingdom privileges or opportunities, first

offered to natural Israel, were transferred to spiritual Israel. R4593:6,
5505:6; B119
The Kingdom dignity pictured by the purple raiment of the rich man. (Luke
16:19) NS819:1
Taken from you -- "Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for."
(Rom. 11:7) B119
Taken from them as a nation, not as individuals. NS513:5, 606:5, 631:1
Their typical righteousness ceased, and the promise of royalty ceased to
be theirs. R2604:3, 1000:4, 284:2; HG386:1
Israel was not ready to be used of God in the blessing of other nations;
only a remnant was found worthy. R4593:6
Given to a nation -- Spiritual Israel, whose existence began at
Pentecost. R4593:6
"An holy nation, a peculiar people." (1 Pet. 2:9) R2604:3, 2125:5; NS630:5
Separate and distinct from all others, gathered out from Jews and
Gentiles, bond and free, from every nation and denomination. R5505:6
Not to some other nation. God proposed to organize a holy nation, composed
of the holy Jews and others of a similar class among all nations. NS513:5
A class they esteemed less than the publicans and sinners, the Gentiles,
whom they esteemed as "dogs," and from among whom the Bride of Christ is
being selected. R1460:4; HG153:5
Represented by "Lazarus" in the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus.
R1087:1, 2604:3, 1000:4, 802:3*, 284:2; HG386:1
Matthew 21:44
And whosoever -- The Jewish church in the harvest of the Jewish age, and
the nominal Christian church in the harvest of the Gospel age. R1983:1
"And he shall be for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offense to
both the houses of Israel." (Isa. 8:14) R1983:1
Shall fall on -- A number of prophetic statements which met a
fulfillment in Jesus were so mixed up with others not specially applicable
to him, that one might readily stumble over them, not applying them to
Messiah, had not the holy Spirit brought them to the attention of the
apostles. R435:3
This stone -- Our Lord was a stone of stumbling to natural Israel in
their harvest, and similarly to spiritual Israel in the present harvest;
especially his presence and his work. R5817:1
Messiah. R4678:6
The doctrine of the ransom. R448:2
Connected with the stone that strikes Nebuchadnezzar's image. (Dan. 2:34)
R3359:4*
Shall be broken -- By stumbling over Jesus they injure themselves.
R5505:6, 4678:6
In stumbling over Christ at his first advent, the Jewish nation was indeed
broken to pieces. R1982:6
In stumbling, the nominal gospel church will, as natural Israel, be
broken. The whole institution will be disintegrated. R1983:4
But on whomsoever -- When the Kingdom is established. R1983:4
It shall fall -- After it has been raised to glory and power. R1983:4
In the sense of condemning them. R5505:6
By stumbling over him, they injure themselves; but if he falls on, or
condemns them, it signifies their utter destruction, their cutting off in
the second death. R5505:6, 4678:6
Grind him to powder -- When the Church is glorified, upon whomsoever
this stone falls, it will utterly destroy. "Every soul that will not hear
that prophet shall be destroyed from among the people." (Acts 3:22,23)
R1983:4
In and by the great time of trouble, all opposition shall be thoroughly
broken down. NS435:1
Matthew 21:46
Lay hands on him -- Thus fulfilling the final prediction of the parable
(verse 39). R1795:3
As the chief priests, the clergy, do today against those whose blindness
and lameness the Lord has healed. R1795:5
Matthew 22
Matthew 22:2
Kingdom of heaven -- Not an earthly kingdom, but a heavenly one; whose

ruler, the glorified Christ, will not be an earthly king, but a heavenly
being of the highest rank. R5510:2
The parables of Jesus about the Kingdom of Heaven seem always to refer to
the Church militant--the living, mortal phase of the Church. R58:2*
Like unto -- Actually we are not called to be guests at the marriage
supper of the Lamb; but we are called to be the Bride, though in some
respects we must be like these guests. C198 A certain king -- Jehovah.
R5510:3, 4679:2; C198
Made a marriage -- As Messiah is to be the great King of earth, during
the period of his Mediatorial reign, it is the Father's good pleasure that
he should have a Bride. R4679:2
For his son -- Our Lord Jesus. R5679:2, 5510:3; C198
Matthew 22:3
Sent forth -- During the three-and-a-half years of our Lord's ministry.

R2301:1
Nowhere is Jesus represented as calling his own Bride. R4679:2
Servants -- John the Baptist and his disciples. R5510:5
To call them -- This parable shows three divisions, or parts, in the one
call which gathers the guests. R2300:3
The Jewish people, the first invitation. R2301:1, 4679:2, 343:2
The Jews had been invited to this high honor from the time of the giving
of the Law Covenant at Sinai. R4679:2
The call first reached the priests, scribes, Pharisees and the Doctors of
the Law who sat in Moses' seat. (Matt. 23:2) R342:6
That were bidden -- The Jews had the first opportunity for
joint-heirship with Messiah in his Kingdom. PD59/70
During the Jewish age God had, through the Law and the prophets, informed
Israel, his friends, of his intention to have such a feast. NS317:5
They would not come -- To the first call none seem to have responded,
save the servants only who bore the message. R2301:2
"He came to his own and his own received him not." (John 1:11) R51:5
Matthew 22:4
Again -- During the three and a half years following the crucifixion.
R2301:1 The second invitation, after their house or nation was left desolate.
R2301:1
Other servants -- Jesus and his disciples. R5510:5
The disciples at first were simply justified men; but on and after
Pentecost, they were new creatures, begotten of God. (1 Pet. 1:3) R343:2
Which are bidden -- Previously bidden, who had, during the
three-and-a-half years of our Lord's ministry, refused to come. R2301:1
The second call is not to the righteous and prominent among the Jews, but
to the morally and mentally poor, blind and naked. R2301:2, 342:6
Prepared my dinner -- The good things pertaining to the spiritual phase
of the Kingdom of God. R1957:3
"O taste and see that the Lord is good." (Psa. 34:8) R1957:5
He came in the flesh to a fleshly typical bride; the marriage feast was
prepared. R70:1*
This comprehensive statement of readiness could not be made in the first
invitation, before our Lord's death. R2301:2
Fatlings are killed -- The ransom price has been paid. Our Lord himself
was the bullock slain. R2301:1
Come unto the marriage -- Only by consecration could anyone have the
right to be at the banquet, as a member either of the Bride or of the
Great Company. R4525:5
Matthew 22:5
One to his farm -- Coming to this feast involves the leaving or

sacrificing of earthly aims and pleasures. R343:4
To his merchandise -- The cares of this life: business, politics and
religious schemes of their own concern. R4679:3
Matthew 22:6
Entreated them spitefully -- Imprisoning the King's messengers, the

apostles, and slew some of them. R2301:3
Slew them -- Jesus was slain; his followers were evilly treated and
slain. R5510:6
Matthew 22:7
He was wroth -- Indignant. R3833:6

His armies -- The Roman armies. R4679:4, 5510:6
Those murderers -- The refuse, chaff, of the Jewish nation. R2301:3
Burned up -- Utterly destroyed in the end of the Jewish harvest. R2301:3
Their city -- Government, nation. R2301:3, 4679:4
Jerusalem, in AD 70. R4679:4, 5510:6, 343:3
Matthew 22:9
Go ye -- The servant, the Body of Christ. R343:1

Into the highways -- Among the nations, the Gentiles, outside of Israel;
the third invitation. R2301:4, 4679:4, 5510:6, 343:3; PD59/70; NS317:6
As many as -- The parable does not teach that all heard the invitation
to the feast. History demonstrates that it was only a comparatively small
proportion of humanity. NS317:6
Ye shall find -- Not to intercept all the people in the highways, but
merely to urge upon those they met the great privilege of the open door to
the wedding feast. R5511:1 Bid to the marriage -- The third division, the
call of the Gentiles. R2301:4
"Going in to the wedding" is not the translation of the living into
immortality, but coming into a position of expectation which may be lost
on account of lacking certain qualifications. R58:5*
Matthew 22:10
Gathered together -- The servants gather, but the king sifts out those
unfit for the Kingdom. R58:5* Both bad and good -- Suitable and
unsuitable. "Gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away."
(Matt. 13:48) R2301:4
The call has attracted some naturally very fallen, as well as some better
favored by nature. R4679:5
Not all saintly: "Not many wise, mighty, noble: but God hath chosen the
foolish, weak, base, despised, things which are not." (1 Cor. 1:26-28)
R5511:1
The wedding -- To the ante-chamber of special preparation, into the
light of present truth where we feast already on the prospect before us,
in the brilliant light of the clear unfolding of truth now due. C199
Here is food to satisfy every longing, more and better than we could ask
or think, a spiritual feast of future good things, joys and pleasures in
the presence of the Lord. R343:1
Imagine the provisions for their entertainment, the reception rooms, the
brilliant illumination, corresponding to the blessings received now by the
living members of the consecrated Church. The light has been turned on
since 1874. R2303:3; NS319:1
Furnished with guests -- a definitely fixed number; every place filled.
R5511:1
The number of guests was limited. It was the same number originally
intended when the offer was made to the Jews alone, 144,000. NS318:2
This number of guests had been found before the King came in to make the
inspection. R2301:5
The filling up of the elect, predetermined number which shall constitute
the joint-heirs in the Kingdom by becoming the bride, the Lamb's wife.
R2301:4
To be in the light while the wedding process is due is the privilege of
the living generation, and because of this they are called guests. R58:4*
There would be no room for any to enter since 1878 were it not for casting
out those not worthy. R2302:6
Matthew 22:11
And when -- In 1878 and since. C204; R2301:5, 41:1*

As the parable relates the history of the living phase of the gospel
church, this closing scene must refer to the condition of those who are
"alive and remain." (1 Thess. 4:15) R49:2*
We should expect, especially since 1878, various no-ransom
theories--"denying the Lord that bought them." (2 Pet. 2:1) R2302:5
The king -- Jehovah himself, through the exhibition of divine justice in
some manner. R5511:2
Or, Christ, for at his coming he is invested with kingly authority by the
heavenly Father (as indicated in the parables of the Pounds and Talents).
R5511:2
Here our Lord Jesus at his second advent. NS318:3
We believe our Lord assumed the office of King in April, 1878. R2301:5,
343:5
Came in -- The parallel in time to our Lord's typical assumption of the
office of King of the Jews. C204
Just before the feast. C204
Now present to gather out of his Kingdom "all things that offend" (Matt.
13:41) and to gather unto himself his jewels, his bride. (Mal. 3:17)
R1937:1
The invisible, but present, King. C202
Just prior to the marriage, pointing to the exact time in which we are
living, the harvest of the Gospel age, just preceding the marriage of the
Lamb. R954:5*
To see the guests -- This parable shows the character of the readiness
required, and also the individual inspection which rejects some and
accepts others. C198
An inspection just prior to the feast. R5511:2
The inspection of the guests is the last thing prior to our change. R180:5*
A testing among those who have heard and recognized the harvest message.
C197
"Judgment must begin at the house of God." (1 Pet. 4:17) R2301:6
Showing a trial, shaking, inspection and casting out of some after the
Bridegroom comes. R40:3*
At his second advent, Christ will himself inspect all those who pose as
his faithful servants. R5511:2
After the King comes and inspection is due, we should not be surprised if
there is a sifting out instead of a gathering in. R58:6*, 41:5*
As none could enter without a wedding garment, an acknowledgment of the
merit of Christ's sacrifice, so none could remain without maintaining
their standing of confidence in Christ. R4679:5
This thought of inspection at the end of the Gospel age is also in the
parables of the drag net, the wheat and tares, the wise and foolish
virgins and the pounds and talents. NS318:3
The Body of Christ is represented as wise virgins, as servants waiting for
their Lord's return from the wedding, as guests to a wedding, and as a
bride--distinct and separate illustrations which must not be blended. C197
He saw -- God, through the exhibition of divine justice in some manner;
or Christ, now invested with kingly authority by the heavenly Father.
R5511:2
There -- We need not look for him amongst those who are in the outer
darkness and who have not seen the inner light of the feast. NS319:1
A man -- A class, rejecting the wedding garment. R5511:3, 4525:3; C204
A small class. R343:6
A very limited class, all of whom once appreciated the ransom and, under
its favor, entered into the special light of the harvest time. C204
A class which, because of headiness and lax consecration, are led
eventually to deny the ransom--the necessity, value or merit of the
atoning sacrifice of Calvary--and appear at the feast in the filthy rags
of self-righteousness.
R2302:1,2, 5511:4; C201
Which had not -- Repudiated his contract to be dead with Christ, to
drink of his cup, to go to him without the camp, bearing his reproach.
R4548:4, 4525:5,6; Q339:3
Repudiation of the sacrificial work of Christ. R4548:4
Repudiation of the nuptial contract, to suffer with him. Q734:3
Rejected Jesus as Savior, Redeemer, Atoner for their sins. R5511:4
God takes note of anyone professing loyalty, yet disregarding the merit of
Christ's death. R5511:2
Such seem to lose sight of their personal unworthiness, as well as of the
Lord's unblemished perfection. C200
All who attend this wedding must have on the wedding garment, must be
covered with the merit of Christ's righteousness. R5511:1
For anyone to appear at the wedding without the robe would imply that he
had taken it off; for no one was admitted without the robe. R5511:2
Indicating that, though the robe was given him, he preferred his own
clothing and considered it better than that provided. R954:4*
All Christians who cast away their confidence in the sacrifice of Christ
and accept Evolution theories and Higher Criticism take off the wedding
garment. R4679:5
Professed ministers of Christ, as well as agnostics, declare that, while
they accept Jesus as a teacher, they totally reject the covering of his
robe of merit. NS318:5
This rejection of Christ's ransom-sacrifice first made its appearance
amongst those in the light of present truth in the summer of 1878. C202
Contrary to the rules of such a feast. NS318:4
A shameful impropriety, significant of pride and of disrespect for his
entertainer. C198
A wedding garment -- The imputed righteousness of Christ, justification.
It was the Jewish custom to provide white linen robes for all the guests.
C198; R4525:3, 4998:4, 5197:6, 2301:6; Q490:2, 507:6; NS318:4
At a Jewish wedding, we cannot imagine the offering of robes to passers-by
who merely have knowledge that a wedding is in prospect. Q734:1
Clean and white, representing the absolute purity and spotlessness of our
Lord's holiness; each is to "keep his garments unspotted from the world."
(Jas. 1:27) R2160:2
Covering his own garments. Thus all at the wedding were on an equal
footing as respects dignity because they were the guests of the host.
R5511:2, 2301:6, 343:3; NS121:4, 318:4
Covers all the blemishes of the most imperfect as well as those of the
least imperfect. R4679:5
The robe does not cover sins of the new mind. If the new mind were
disloyal to God, it would cease to be a new mind. R4842:4
New creatures in Christ Jesus are all on a common footing because of
Christ's robe. There is no difference respecting previous conditions, bond
or free, male or female. (Gal. 3:28) R2301:6
The robe of justification which becomes ours at the time of consecration.
Given, not to the old creature, but to the new, to cover the blemishes of
its imperfect body. R4842:1, 5855:3, 4525:5, 5902:3; Q507:6
Represents more than justification--consecration, sanctification, to
suffer with Christ, to drink of his cup, to be baptized into his death.
R4525:5
An acknowledgment of the merit of Christ's sacrifice. R4679:5
To make one suitable, no matter how mean, degraded, ignoble by nature.
R5511:1
Given only to those who accepted the invitation and entered in through the
door. R4525:4
The acceptance and putting on of the garment symbolized consecration and
its acceptance. R4525:5
Represents a faith relationship with God through Christ's merit. PD59/70
Signifies our entrance into the family of God, as members of the Church.
R5960:4
Also beautifully pictured as the bridal robe. (Psa. 45:13,14) R5197:6
"Fine linen, clean and white" with which the Bride is clothed. (Rev. 19:8)
It is not limited to theology, but must include character. R50:2*
Do not let anyone think that theology is a garment; we must be clothed
with righteousness. R50:4*, 41:5*
Each may embroider his own with good works. C199
Matthew 22:12
Friend -- Comrade. C202

How camest thou in -- A gentle but forcible reminder that the wearing of
the robe was the very condition of admission to the favors enjoyed, and
that he had been provided one gratis. C202
Wedding garment -- Christ's merit, the covering he provides for his own.
Q732:2
Inferring that he had taken it off. Q732:2
Symbolizing a repudiation of the sacrificial work of Christ, or a
repudiation of our nuptial contract, to suffer with him. Q734:2
He was speechless -- For he did not come in without it. C203; R5511:4,
2302:1; Q732:2
No one ever came to a knowledge of Christ's presence and other deep things
now due who did not have on the robe at the time. C203, 202
He could make no defence, he was guilty. NS318:5
Matthew 22:13
Said to the king -- Let none be in haste to judge his brethren; the Lord
is judge, and he will decide who is or is not possessed of the wedding
garment. R58:6*
Bind him -- By the presentation of the truth in contradistinction to the
error, the influence of the truth being the restraining influence
circumventing the error--a duty of all who see the truth. R2302:4
Restrain his influence by thoroughly answering his arguments. R1453:5
Making an example of such before the company of the consecrated. C203
By putting others on their guard, thus restraining their influence on the
Church. R954:6*
Restrain him from making further progress toward the feast. C201
Hand and foot -- Take away all his influence. C203
It would not be optional; the Lord would force such a one out of the
light. Q199:4
Implies that such may desire to resist and have a preference for the
light, but that none will be permitted to enjoy it except those
appreciating the robe of Christ's righteousness and wearing it. NS319:2
Take him away -- He cannot occupy any place in the Kingdom, whatever
other blessings he may or may not get at the hands of the great King to
whose grace he does despite. NS318:6
Since some would be cast out after the full number was chosen, and since
the elect number must be complete, there must be a way of bringing in
others to replace those cast out. R2676:5
For each one of those cast out of the light and the privilege of the
feast, there is an opening, an opportunity, for another to take his place
and crown. R2302:6
These stand condemned of "counting the blood of the covenant wherewith
they were sanctified" and accepted as a common or ordinary thing. (Heb.
10:29) C201
Cast him -- Reject such a one from any fellowship which would mark him
or her as a brother or sister in Christ. R1453:5, 954:5*
As manifestly unfit to be a member of the Bride of Christ. R5511:4; PD59/70
Into outer darkness -- From which he originally came in. R1698:4
Out of the light of present truth entirely, to share in the anguish and
vexation of the great time of trouble. C201, 203; PD59/70; Q732:2
Expelled from the privileges enjoyed and the light and blessings afforded
to this favored class, into the outer darkness of the world, and of
nominal Christianity; in confusion, in bewilderment. R4679:5, 5511:5,
5949:1, 2302:4; Q199:4, 732:2; NS319:1
Such must first have been in the light of harvest truth, and consequently
have a greater responsibility and penalty than those who never enjoyed
such favor. C203
Taking away the knowledge and joys represented by the wedding-chamber
light. R5511:5
Prefigures the fate of all who reject the efficacy of the sacrifice of
Christ. PD59/70
When their lamps went out, the foolish virgins were in this darkness. R88:5
Even that which they have is taken from them. (Matt. 25:28) R41:5*
The darkness of human reasoning, undirected by God's Word and unsquared by
his revealed plan of ransom and restitution. C203
We are not to waste sympathy on those who depart. When the Lord has put
any out of the light, we cannot hope to bring them back. R5949:1, 1860:6
Darkness: not the interior of a blazing hell. R2302:4; Q199:4, 732:2
Not eternal torment or hell-fire; outer darkness and inner fire would be
opposite thoughts. R2302:4, 5511:4; Q199:4
There shall be -- Shortly. R2302:4
Weeping -- They thought they were ready for the marriage and were
bitterly disappointed. R49:3*
By and by they will realize with chagrin their loss of the Kingdom. PD59/70
Gnashing of teeth -- Great disappointment, sorrow, pain, trouble and
anguish throughout Christendom. R3771:4, 5511:5; CR253:3; PD59/70; Q732:2
Signifying chagrin, disappointment, savage animosity; as in the case of
Stephen, "They gnashed on him with their teeth." (Acts 7:54) R4329:1;
PD59/70; Q732:2; NS317:3
Representing the great time of trouble. R4679:5, 2302:5; Q732:2; NS319:3
The expression "weeping and gnashing of teeth" occurs altogether seven
times in the New Testament. NS317:2
Matthew 22:14
Many are called -- Not all have been called. R2302:5

With the heavenly calling, after being justified. R4078:2; CR131:6
To the high calling of joint-heirship with the Redeemer. CR131:6
The Jewish nation was called, or invited, to the wedding and failed,
except the few "Israelites indeed." R5511:5, 5435:3, 2302:5
But not so many respond to the call. NS654:5
But only those who have the ear to hear. NS331:4
Merely many in proportion to the few who will constitute the elect; not
many as respects the whole number of our race; but, on the contrary, few.
HG746:1; NS373:6
The call has reached millions during the last 18 centuries, but
comparatively few have cared to accept the invitation. R2302:5
They may rejoice with the few but, refraining from a full consecration of
themselves, they can not be of them. NS294:3
But few -- Few prove worthy of the favor to which they have been called.
C214
Because few of the justified ones make the necessary consecration. R4078:2
Because only the few will have the characteristics demanded by the Lord's
call and selection. NS294:3
Thus all of the called ones should be deeply interested in ascertaining
the conditions which determine their acceptance with the Lord as his
chosen. NS372:1
Unlike the Millennial feast, this dinner is not for all people, but for
the few selected from among the many invited in the present age. R342:3
Because nothing connected with the call is compulsory. R4138:6
Are chosen -- Begotten of the holy Spirit and adopted as spirit-begotten
We have been invited, we have accepted, our names have been enrolled and
we have been given the white garment that we may enter in. CR301:2
Of the few elect, there will still be a class not properly appreciative
which will be cast away. R5511:5
The "called" who fulfill their consecration become the "chosen." R1151:5*
Of those who accept, the Lord makes the choice. He rejects all who do not
accept the invitation and all its privileges as a grace, a favor. R2302:6
Elected is from the same Greek word. R3586:3
This does not mean that all the remainder will be eternally tortured.
R5511:5
Matthew 22:15
The Pharisees -- Who secretly taught, in a general way, that the Jews,
as the people of God, ought never to pay taxes to other rulers. R3852:6
Worldly-wise and spirit-blind. R5512:3
Who opposed Jesus because he did not acknowledge them. They did not like
him to criticize them for the hypocrisy of their claims to be perfect, or
for their lack of sympathy with the poor. R4687:1; Q273:3
The triumphal entry awakened fear in the minds of the Pharisees. R4687:1
Might entangle him -- Either for counselling sedition for declaring
taxes illegal or, if he declared tribute lawful, alienating the sympathy
of the multitudes. R4687:1, 5512:3, 3461:1; Q273:6
They strove to turn away the sympathy of the people from the Great Teacher
by catching him in his words. R4687:1, 5512:3; Q274:1
Matthew 22:16
With the Herodians -- Ishmaelites, not Jews at all. R2756:2

Who took sides with Herod and stood firmly and publicly for the suzerainty
of the Roman Empire. R3853:1
Thou art true -- They artfully endeavored to ensnare the Master by
complimenting him. R4687:2
All of the complimentary remarks stood to his credit in the minds of the
common people. Q274:1
Matthew 22:17
Tell us -- The most contrary theorists are ready to cooperate with each
other in opposition to the truth. R2756:2
Is it lawful -- According to the Law of Moses. R3853:2
Tribute -- The Jews held the idea that they, as God's Kingdom, must not
pay tithes to any earthly government. R4687:1
Matthew 22:18
Why tempt ye -- Why do you try to entrap me? R3853:2

Me -- It was utter folly for imperfect men to seek to entrap the perfect
one. R104:2
Ye hypocrites -- Why do you veil your base designs under guise of
speaking for the truth? R4687:2; Q274:1
Matthew 22:19
Tribute money -- Literally, the census coin in which the tax was to be
paid. R4687:2; Q274:1
A denarius, the usual wage for the day laborer, corresponding in value to
about seventeen of our cents. Q274:1; R4687:2
Matthew 22:21
Unto Caesar -- Jesus and the apostles taught the Church to obey laws and
to respect those in authority because of their office, even if they are
not personally worthy of esteem. A266
In all matters that do not conflict with our own personal liberties and
conscience we are to recognize the official position of those who are
governing the world. R3778:2
But when his laws conflict with the divine requirements, Christians are
left no alternative. R5929:2
The Master's followers were instructed not to be seditious, but thankful,
holy, happy and subject to the powers that be, recognizing them as
ordained of God and not merely of men. R5512:6
In Jesus' case, all earthly authority was exercised by his personal
inferiors, even though they were his legal superiors; yet he was loyal and
faithful to them. R4809:2, 1114:4
Showing the falsity of the charge before Pilate that he prohibited the
payment of tribute. (Luke 23:2) R1810:1
Which are Caesar's -- "Tribute to whom tribute is due." (Rom. 13:7) A266
The affairs of the world may be safely left with the world. R3853:3
If Rome ruled, Rome needed to be supported; and the method of support was,
properly enough, through taxation. R5513:1
We must not render unto Caesar the things of God. R5513:4
That are God's -- Every talent and power we possess ought, by right, to
be used in the service of our Creator and for his praise. R5513:1
A lesson to the Lord's people to keep religious affairs separate and
distinct from worldly politics. R2756:3
If we have changed our allegiance from this world to heaven, we are aliens
and not citizens of this country, and should claim and use only such
favors as are accorded to aliens. We should not vote or hold public
office. R424:3
Matthew 22:22
They marvelled -- Mark the wisdom of Jesus' replies when they sought to
entrap him in his words. R575:2
Matthew 22:23
Sadducees -- Agnostics, practically unbelievers, of the wealthier, more

respectable class. R4687:3, 4986:3, 3854:1, 5079:5; Q273:3, 594:3
Who opposed Jesus because, from their standpoint of unbelief, he was a
fraud and was gaining influence with the people, which they feared would
disturb the peace with the Roman Empire. R4687:1; Q273:4
The triumphal entry produced fear in the Sadducees. They worried that the
common people should become so aroused as to involve their nation in some
strife with the empire. R4687:1
Resurrection -- Here without the Greek article, showing no emphasis,
indicating no peculiarity. R1512:1
And asked him -- One of their stock questions. R4687:3; Q594:3
Matthew 22:28
In the resurrection -- Not in heaven or purgatory or eternal torture.

Neither Jesus nor the Jews held any such teaching. R5079:5, 4687:3
Probably referring to the anastasis of the future in contrast and
distinction from any temporary awakening of the present time. R3461:4
With the Greek article, showing emphasis and indicating that the first, or
special resurrection, is surely meant. R1512:2, 734:5, 92:6
The Greek article occurs before the word resurrection, but this would be
no positive proof that a special resurrection was meant unless two
resurrections were referred to in contrast. R3461:3
Matthew 22:29
Not knowing -- You do not know the Scripture teaching concerning such
questions. R4687:4, 5079:6; Q588:3, 594:4
The power of God -- Which will straighten out all such difficulties.
R4687:4, 5079:6; Q588:3, 594:4
As we understand the Scriptures more fully, and appreciate the power of
God, we rejoice. CR50:2
Matthew 22:30
In the resurrection -- Greek, anastasis, raising up, restoring; being

lifted fully and completely out of death. R1510:4; F712, 713
A gradual process. R5079:6; Q594:4
The raising up proceeds from the time of the awakening of the individual
until he shall have attained to the full perfection of manhood--that will
constitute his resurrection. R3461:4
Some will be awakened who will not be accounted worthy to attain a full
lifting up to perfection, a resurrection. R3461:5
The Lord does not say what will be the intermediate conditions during the
Millennium; leaving us to infer that mankind will be awakened with the
same sexual distinctions as at present. R3461:5
Neither marry -- The propagation of the human race is intended to
proceed only until the earth shall be filled. SM37:3; Q852:T
Adam combined masculine and feminine qualities. When Eve was formed for
the purposes of propagation the feminine qualities were incorporated in
her personality. Members of both sexes will again become as Adam was
before Eve was formed. Q852:T; NS297:4
True, the glorified Church will not marry, but there is no reference here
to the Church class. R3461:3
For man will no longer be alone, as he was at first, to need a companion.
R3461:6
Are as the angels -- Sexless, restored to the condition represented in
Adam before Eve was separated from him. T100, 101
Sex conditions will gradually pass away. During the first 1000 years after
the fall, births were less frequent than now; during the Millennium, sex
functions will gradually diminish, reaching a full stop toward the close
of that age. R3461:6; NS297:4
We believe a similar communication will be established between perfect men
and the heavenly courts that was in vogue before the first disobedience
and the penalty came in. R3462:5
In their proper habitation, angels do not possess powers of reproduction.
As they materialized as human beings, they exercised the powers of
mankind, thus bringing children into the world of the fleshly nature.
Q744:3
As the angels do not die, neither will the perfected human beings die.
R3461:6
Matthew 22:31
Of the dead -- Jesus defended the doctrine of the resurrection. PD32/44;

CR374:2
It is the dead who need a resurrection. The Lord did not say, "As touching
the resurrection of the living." R3854:5
Matthew 22:32
I am the God -- This surely meant that Abraham, Isaac and Jacob were to
be resurrected. PD32/44
Not the God of the dead -- He would not thus refer to beings whom he had
forever blotted out. E352
God would not declare himself to be the God of those who are out of
existence. NS282:1
But -- He is the God. R2198:1
Of the living -- All "live unto God" (Gal. 2:19) in the sense that in
Christ he has provided for the reawakening of all. PD32/44; E353
From his standpoint, they only sleep. E353
Implying the right, authority and power to give life; and, secondly, that
the dead are so completely dead as to need another Father to regenerate
them. R810:2
Matthew 22:33
They were astonished -- The supposedly unanswerable question of the

Sadducees fell flat, and their ignorance was exposed. Q594:4
Matthew 22:36
In the law -- God has only one law for his intelligent
creatures--angels, men or new creatures. It is based on justice, and their
is no higher law, and there could be none. R5072:2
According to the spirit, you are under the law, and you are obliged to
live up to everything in the spirit that the Jew was commanded to do in
the flesh. Q449:3
Matthew 22:37
Thou shalt love -- This is God's law, and it will never be put to an
end. Q431:5
No one will ever be acceptable to the Father except they come up to the
standard of that law. Q438:6
The spirit of God's law is love. R614:6
Every one who will ever get eternal life on any plane will have to come to
the mark of perfect love. Q449:3; A136
Love for the Lord would prompt one to be obedient to his just commands,
and love for the neighbor would induce one to do good unto all men as
opportunities were presented. Q799:T
Failure to keep this law is the direct cause of the time of trouble. A309
"Love is the fulfilling of the law." (Rom. 13:10) A246, 136; Q799:T
The Lord -- Jehovah. E41
It is not in conflict with this that we should also love our Lord Jesus,
for the Apostle declares, "Every one that loveth him that begat loveth him
that is begotten of him." (1 John 5:1) R4052:2
With all thy heart -- Such love does not wait for commands, but appeals
for service. F124
Obedience to the Siniatic Law enabled Christ to fulfill the Law Covenant
and to become heir of the Abrahamic Covenant at the same time that he
redeemed Adam and his race. F356, 357
Love to God would lead us to all those things which are inculcated in his
Word. R5359:6
To love God thus is to subject every other thing and interest to his
pleasure. R543:2
The sum of our hearts, the center of our affections. CR6:1
Giving all our heart to God does not mean that we shall not love our
families and our brethren. CR6:1
After confessing that the divine Law is holy, just and good, we find that
we are unable to obey it to the full. R4820:6
If your heart is not all of that, you will not be of the Little Flock or
Great Company. All must come up to this standard in their hearts, or they
will all die the second death. Q449:3
With all thy soul -- Being. R205:2, 276:3
None but a perfect man could fully live up to this requirement. SM69:2
Any division of the heart or mind or soul violates this commandment.
R5286:3
The Lord thus epitomized the Ten Commandments, which are, in themselves, a
brief epitome of the whole Law. A45
Ultimately, obedience to this law will be required of all who shall have
life on any plane. A136
Matthew 22:38
The first and great -- The chief, primary. R4687:4; E41

Dividing the Ten Commandments into two parts, this summarizes the first
part, relating to duty and obligations toward God. R5699:3, 4687:4
Matthew 22:39
The second -- Dividing the Ten Commandments into two parts, this
summarizes the duty and obligation to fellowmen, toward the neighbor.
R5699:3, 5359:6, 4687:4
Like unto it -- Grows out of it. R1117:5*
In sympathy with it, in harmony with the same principle. Q704:1
Love thy neighbor -- If we appreciate the concept of a true neighbor
which our Lord gave, then let us observe the Golden Rule. R5699:6
To our brethren we are not merely to observe the Golden Rule, but be ready
to do toward these as Jesus did, to lay down life for them. R5700:4
The Golden Rule would measure the demands of justice; but the law of God
demands not only justice, but also love -- love supreme to God and love
to our fellow-men. R5643:6
Fulfill all your obligations toward him. R5359:6
We are to express this love by being thoughtful and considerate of our
neighbor's welfare and interests, and helpful as far as in our power,
other obligations being considered. R5700:1 To love a neighbor would thus
insure that you would neither kill him, nor steal from him, nor covet his
goods. R543:2
Jesus declared that in the Samaritan of the parable (Luke 10:29-35), they
had an example of one who was a real neighbor. R5699:6
As thyself -- It does not say, Better than thyself. Christ's course of
self-sacrifice in our behalf was beyond this requirement. R3804:6, 3805:1
Signifies justice. Those who really love that principle are not easily
stumbled. Q529:T
We have agreed to do more, to lay down our lives for the brethren.
R5072:3; Q449:4
This is more important than the giving of tithes. R5094:4
Relating to mankind, you must treat him as you would want him to treat
you. Q449:4
Be kind, generous, unselfish, fair-dealing. R5947:3
It would not be reasonable to demand that one do more for another than for
himself. To do so may be invited, but never commanded. This is the
difference between justice and love. R5072:2
Our love for many of our neighbors must necessarily be along the lines of
their characters, hopes and plans. R3804:6
Matthew 22:40
Two commandments -- The first tablet of the Law contained the laws
relating to man's obligations to his Creator; the other set forth the
duties of man toward his fellow-men. Q757:T, 133:11, 704:1
Each to love other as much as self, and to love God even more. R1462:5
Surely none but a perfect man could fully live up to these requirements.
SM69:3
Christians are not under the law of the Ten Commandments, but every
Christian, and angels too, are under these two commandments. Q134:3
But the Church has been given a third commandment. Jesus said: "A new
commandment I give unto you that ye love one another as I have loved you."
(John 13:34) Q134:4
All the law -- God has only one law for his intelligent creatures, based
on justice. R5072:2
The very essence of truth. E41; Q757:T
The Law given at Sinai has served as the basis in the formulating of all
laws since; and this succinct statement is still the standard of all law
amongst the wisest and best peoples of earth. SM380:T
That law is the Father's law. It existed before Jesus came. It still
exists. It will always be in existence. Jesus did not put it to an end and
never will put it to an end. Q431:5
The only contingency for man's continued dominion of earth is that man's
rulership must be always exercised in harmony with the Supreme ruler of
the Universe and this one law, love. A246
It is because the depraved, carnal mind is opposed to this law of God and
not subject to it that, as a natural consequence, the trouble will come,
as reaping after sowing. A309
"Love is the fulfilling of the law" (Rom. 13:10). Love was the only law
given in Eden, love supreme to God, and then love to each other, measured
only by the love of self. R1462:5
And the prophets -- The faithful servants and teachers of the Law. Q757:T
Matthew 22:42
Son of David -- In the days of his flesh he was the Son of David, but in
his glorification he is David's Lord. Q365:5; R809:6
He was not the Son of David before he left the higher nature and became a
man--a branch out of the roots of Jesse. (Isa. 11:11) R809:6
He became David's offspring in Bethlehem; he became David's Lord by virtue
of his death. R810:1
The first Adam was the original "root"; hence our Lord Jesus in the flesh,
son of Mary, son of David, son of Abraham, was in the same sense a shoot
or branch out of Adam. E139
The name David signifies "beloved," and Jesus himself was proclaimed as
the real David--"This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased." (Matt.
3:17) R2551:4
Relates, not to his pre-human existence, but to his relationship to the
human family, his genealogy being traceable to David both through Mary and
through Joseph. (Luke 3:31; Matt. 1:6,16) E129
Matthew 22:43
David in spirit -- By inspiration, prophetically. E129, 136; Q365:4;

R4687:5, 808:3
Lord -- David will receive from him, not only resurrection, but also the
blessings of participation in the Messianic Kingdom. Q365:5
"I am the root of David" (Rev. 22:16); that is, the father, or progenitor
of David. R809:5; E136
Not by reason of anything before he was made flesh, but by reason of the
great work which he accomplished as the Mediator of the Atonement. E134
The Logos might properly have been styled a Lord, a high one in authority;
but there was a particular and different sense in which our Lord Jesus
became a Lord or Master by virtue of his death and resurrection. E134, 135
Jesus becomes the root, Lord, life-giver, by virtue of his death and
resurrection; hence, in this sense, he was not David's root or Lord before
his death. R809:6; E135
By virtue of his having bought the race he has, in the eyes of justice,
become its owner, its master, Lord of all. E135
"To this end Christ both died and revived, that he might be Lord, both of
the dead and living." (Rom. 14:9) E134; R810:1
Matthew 22:44
The Lord -- Jehovah. E129; R808:6, 296:5

Said unto my Lord -- Greek, adon, master, ruler, the resurrected Christ.
E49, 129; R296:5
"The affirmation of Jehovah to my Lord." (Psa. 110:1, Young's Translation)
R296:5
The reference is not to the sacrificing one, but to the victor Jesus. E136
On my right hand -- In the position of favor and power. A92; R808:1,
2935:2, 256:1
He hath given him authority above every other, next to the Father. R256:1
Till -- He will be on the right hand when coming, and remain on the
right hand during the Millennial age. R256:1
Jehovah would not and could not justly give him the dominion and subdue it
under him until it had been released from the curse, bought with a price.
R810:5
Matthew 22:45
Then call him Lord -- Greek, adon, master. E129

Our Lord Jesus could be both the Root and Offspring of David, both David's
Son and David's Father, David's Lord. E144, 145
How is he his son? -- The father of Messiah in the flesh will become the
son of the Messiah of glory. R4687:5; Q365:5
Matthew 23
Matthew 23:2
The scribes -- Writers. E351

Sit in Moses' seat -- The Pharisees were the principal sect of the Jews,
and our Lord declares them the successors and representatives of the
Mosaic Law. E351
Our Lord recognized the scribes and Pharisees as the legitimate
instructors of the people, even though he often upbraided them as
hypocrites who deceived the people. C152
Until the casting off of the Jewish house in AD 33; antitypically, the
synods, conferences, etc., did likewise until 1878 when Babylon was cast
off. C152
God had committed to them special responsibilities, blessings, privileges
and knowledge. R5749:3 As representatives of God and the Law. R2969:2
As the husbandmen, or caretakers, of the Lord's vineyard, Israel. R5504:6,
4678:3
Thus they were acquainted with the Law and the Prophets. R342:5
Representing "orthodoxy" so-called. R559:3
Moses still had his seat as Mediator of the Law Covenant, and he was
represented by those who came afterwards. Q498:3
To settle disputes, etc., as The Christ will do during the Millennial age.
B182
Ecclesiastical powers of today are professedly sitting in the seat of
Christ. R5750:1
Matthew 23:3
Observe and do -- Yet Christ came "preaching the Gospel." Hence it is

not surprising if the Gospel age and the age of restitution also lap a
little. HG55:5
The Jews properly follow the guidance of their leaders in setting the
date of the Passover, instead of each trying to fix the date according to
his personal knowledge. R4127:6 Say, and do not -- They were unjust in
their dealings with the people. R5749:3
So filled with a misconception of their proper attitude toward God that
they merely banded themselves together to enjoy the divine promises and
gave up the remainder of their nation as publicans and sinners. R3332:6
If any man does not submit his own heart to the leading and teaching of
the Lord, he has no authority from him to teach others to do so. R1922:1
Matthew 23:4
For they bind -- The Roman Catholic clergy use such cords as the
confessional, holy candles, holy water, holy burial grounds. R1137:3
Heavy burdens -- Exaggerating the Law, making it burdensome. Q725:7
The scribes and Pharisees had added to the Law a mass of forms and
ceremonies so complex and bewildering that those who attempted a strict
observance of them found them extremely burdensome--a yoke of bondage.
R1540:2
Matthew 23:5
Do for to be seen -- As far as outward conditions of morality were

concerned, they were shining examples of righteousness. Q756:4
Broad their phylacteries -- Put on a brassy front. R2716:3
Matthew 23:7
Rabbi, Rabbi -- Gradually coming to regard their position as an office

rather than a service, and seeking each other's companionship in councils
as clergymen. R1135:1
Roman Catholics are expected to address their clergy, "Your Reverence,"
and treat them as superiors in every respect, as holy men, whom to offend
might jeopardize eternity. R1136:6
When Protestant denominations began, they were so full of the spirit of
Christ they claimed no high-sounding titles, but were merely John Knox,
Martin Luther, etc. R321:6, 65:2
A prominent characteristic of the Beast, copied by the Image, is the
honoring of the special class, the clergy, with special titles and honors.
R321:6, 65:2
Matthew 23:8
Be not ye -- Those in position as elders in the Church. R1895:1

We have no evidence that the early Church ever regarded the apostles as
lords in the Church, or that the apostles ever assumed such authority and
dignity. R1523:5; F230
Called Rabbi -- Doctor, Reverend, etc. These hinder some even of God's
true servants from faithfulness. D61; F203; R1487:4
A great man or master. R1895:1
In the voluntary association of the consecrated, there is no imperial
authority, and no lording over God's heritage should be permitted. R1574:2
It was flattery of the leaders of the Reformation that stayed the progress
of that good work and caused many of them of understanding to fall. (Dan.
11:34,35) R1895:2
One is your master -- Teacher, Schoolmaster, Director, Supervisor,
Caretaker, Instructor. R4380:5
One is your truly reverend Lord and Instructor, even Christ. R1487:4
We should not follow man, nor man-made creeds or systems. Individual study
of the Bible seems indispensable, but we must not ignore the aids to Bible
study which God has providentially furnished. Q844:2,3
All ye are brethren -- Without official titles or peculiar garb; not
lords of God's heritage. F211; R5765:3; OV126:1, 160:5
Comrades, fellows, associates; not clergy and laity. CR316:2; OV126:1;
R5765:3
Members in particular of the Body of Christ. SM15:T
The apostles were more important brethren than we are; still we are
brethren. R5670:4
Of like passions and all subject to infirmities. R1895:2
Each royal priest is the peer of each other in authority and dignity of
priesthood, though in talent and intelligence, and therefore in fitness,
they are not all equals R1137:4
A clerical class is entirely ignored as respects any superiority. NS63:5,
615:3
The one who serves belongs to no higher class than his brethren who chose
him to thus minister or serve. R1137:3
In proportion as the Lord's spirit of love pervades our hearts, it
overrides and obliterates all division of country, race, sex, and
language. R4105:2
Awake to the principles of the Reformation, to a recognition of the right
of individual judgment upon religious questions. R1136:4
All ye are ministers, servants of Christ; all ye are preachers, declarers
of the good tidings; all ye are priests, not of human ordination, but by
divine acceptance as members of the body of our Great High Priest. R1101:1
All the brethren were to exhort one another, all were to seek ability to
prophesy or teach publicly, and all were surely to be living epistles of
God. R984:4
One body, one spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God
and Father of all. (Eph. 4:1-6) R1278:1-6
Matthew 23:9
Call no man your father -- Papacy violates this command directly. D160
Spoken to the congregation of his people. R1895:2
We have already done so, to some extent, in refusing to own as our masters
the various heads of the great nominal church. R1487:5
The foundation of the great Apostasy, Papacy, was laid in the separation
of a class, called the clergy, from the believers in general, the laity.
R1134:6 The object of Rome in establishing a clerical class, as separate
from what she terms the laity, was to gain and hold full control of the
people. R1136:5, 359:6*
Those who applied this to protest the establishment of Papacy were
commended, in the Pergamos period of the Church, under the symbol of
"Antipas, my faithful martyr" (Rev. 2:13). In the Greek, anti means
against and Papas signifies father. R5993:2, 491:3*
One is your Father -- A very emphatic statement of our dear and close
relationship to God. R297:2
It is far from honoring the Master, as many appear to think they do, when
they contradict his direct teaching, affirming that the Father and Son are
one and the same being, equal in all respects. R369:6
Matthew 23:10
Called masters -- Neither give nor receive titles of any kind. R1895:1
No marks or badges of distinction or flattering homage of any kind may be
tolerated in the body of Christ. R1895:2
Papacy exalts a man-ordained priestly class to rulership in the church, in
opposition to this teaching. D160
One is your Master -- No matter what may be the relative importance of
some, only the one Lord and Head is to be recognized. F229
Matthew 23:11
He that is greatest -- The character and faithfulness of the servant

should mark the degree of honor and esteem that should be rendered to any
in the ecclesia of the new creation. F253
Rank and honor in the Kingdom will be proportionate to humility and
service here. R309:4*
Be your servant -- Greek, diakonos, deacon, minister. F253
Even the apostles and prophets who were elders in the Church were all
deacons, or servants. F252
Unpretentious, like Jesus and the apostles, they were intent on serving
God and therefore became the servants of the Church. R321:6
The extent to which we enter into our future mission is measurable by our
present efforts to prosecute the work to the extent of our present
ability. R875:5*
Matthew 23:12
Shall exalt himself -- Pride is selfishness gone to seed. R1486:3

To aspire to advancement for self-glory or self-gratification, to desire
personal preferment above others, is contrary to the spirit of God's plan,
which is love. R875:4*
It was to ambition that Satan tempted Eve, saying, "God doth know that in
the day that ye eat thereof, your eyes shall be opened and ye shall be as
gods." (Gen. 3:5) R875:1*
In the days of Constantine, the church sought influence with the civil
power, and that successfully, though to her injury and apostasy. R1093:4
Shall be abased -- As illustrated by Satan. A189; R1686:3, 875:1*
Inflated values must at some time come down to a solid basis. R1486:6
What degradation can await such self-exaltation, as is shown in the
utterances of Papacy. B313
He assures us that he who exalts himself shall be brought low in due time.
Our attention is called to the great Adversary. R2585:5
Not only a warning to the individual seeking preferment in the church, but
also an instruction to the Church to accept as its servants only such as
he here describes. R875:4*
The warnings go forth, and convictions of duty and privilege fasten upon
many minds; but, alas! all is of no avail; they go unheeded. D60; HG715:3
Here, as in other instances, the Lord shows us that his ways are not man's
ways, but higher, as the heavens are higher than the earth. R2585:5
Humble himself -- As Christ did to become man's Redeemer. E425 Humility
is the essential of all who would be of the Lord's family. R5704:4
By facing popular opposition and enduring popular reproach. R1487:2
Humility is the underlying principle of the divine government. R3537:2
Jesus was a perfect illustration: humbling himself, first, to become a
man; and then, when a man, becoming obedient unto death, even the death of
a cross. R875:1*
We have no intimation that either Jesus or any of the angels that kept
their first estate ever aspired to anything beyond the sphere to which
divine wisdom had appointed them. R875:1*
The man who underrates his worth comes much nearer to the truth than the
man who overrates. R1487:1
Especially important for a person who has naturally little of reverence
for God and holy things and who is naturally coarser and more
self-centered and self-satisfied. R3987:4
Shall be exalted -- He that humbleth himself shall be exalted, in due
time, as illustrated by Jesus, our dear Redeemer. R2585:5, 1686:3, 875:1*
But not necessarily to the highest position. A189
The Church should follow this general rule in selecting elders. F296
It would be the very height of presumption on the part of any human being
to aspire to the divine nature if he were not invited to that position by
God himself. R875:2*
The exaltation of any individual or class is always for the purpose of
blessing others who are not exalted. R1487:4, 422:4
"Humble yourself therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt
you in due time." (1 Pet. 5:6) R3079:2
The work of redemption was given to Jesus as a mark of special confidence
and because of the honors which, according to divine law, must attach to
so great obedience, humility and self-sacrifice. E424
Matthew 23:13
Woe unto you -- True love was the cause of the anger--love for truth,
love for God and love for the people who were being deceived by the error.
R439:2
Jesus was full of the love of God, but he spoke most emphatically against
evil-doers. How differently the Lord's rebukes affected his loving
disciples and the proud Pharisees. R664:1*, 416:1*
It is as much the duty of the Body of Christ now to point out present
hindrances to growth--the teachings, theories and influences of the
nominal church--as it was for Jesus to do so. R559:6
And Pharisees -- Jesus called out no one of them by name, but merely
denounced them as a class. R5679:4
The word means "God's holy people." R3552:2
Hypocrites! -- It is much the same today: an outward veneer; a drawing
near with the lips while the heart is far from him; busy with fashion,
dress, pleasure and money-making idolatries, if not with grosser sins.
R3552:2, 2872:5
Ye neither go in -- The elder son would not go in (Luke 15:28) to greet
the returned prodigal. "The publicans and sinners shall go into the
kingdom before you." (Matt. 21:31) R1460:2
The news was so new to them and so good that the Pharisees and religious
leaders could not believe it to be true. R241:3
By their course of action they say, Bring us no new unfoldings of truth,
however beautiful. R1136:3
Let us spend less time and effort on sectarian-blinded ministers, and more
upon the weary and heavy-laden common people, among whom are still some
Israelites indeed. R1035:5, 1001:6
Neither suffer ye them -- Objecting to his telling the poor prodigals
anything about the love of God and his willingness to forgive them and to
welcome them back home again. R1460:2
Seeking by every means in their power to obstruct and counteract the
Lord's teaching. R1735:6
Seeking to prevent the Lord's sheep from recognizing the Shepherd. R2441:1
Ministers of all denominations are much less amenable to the truth than
their consecrated sheep; not only so, but they are the greatest enemies of
the truth. R2640:2
By false teachings and misrepresentations, putting darkness for light and
light for darkness. R2693:4
Matthew 23:14
Woe unto you -- This verse added by unknown parties somewhere between
the fifth and tenth centuries. R1536:6
Devour widows' houses -- By taking advantage of circumstances to buy
them cheaply at forced sale. R3316:2
By some technicality of the Law; and because they had no natural
protection. R5338:6, 5470:5, 5389:3, 5094:5, 4795:2, 3552:2
The sin of selfishness, avarice, indicates a lack of the Spirit of the
Lord. R4795:2
So today, some scheme to eat the substance of their neighbor, being
cannibals in spirit. R5094:5
Make long prayer -- Merely an outward, perfunctory observance. R5470:5
Matthew 23:15
Pharisees -- The "holiness" people of that time and nation. F641

Hypocrites -- Their hypocrisy consisted in pretending to do for God's
glory what was really for their own honor among men. R559:3 Few will deny
that donations, labors and sacrifices are more for their sect than for
God's Church. R559:5
Ye compass sea and land -- With your missionary activity. F641
They had sent missionaries throughout all the civilized world, and had
missions in all the principal cities of the earth. R559:3
Judaism was not without success, for the whole civilized world was
beginning to respect it; and to its holy feasts came devout men yearly out
of every nation. (Acts 2:9) R964:3
The fault lay not in the zeal, but in the false ideas by which the zeal
was inspired, which evidently was, in great measure, sectarian pride
rather than love. R1071:3
Make one proselyte -- One convert to your false and, therefore,
injurious, doctrines. F641
A convert to Judaism. NS169:6
There is a great zeal shown for the traditions of men, for the propaganda
of men's theories, for the advancement of denominational interests. R5631:1
We are in close sympathy with the missionary spirit, but not with the
missionary effort as at present operated by the nominal church. R559:5
Twofold more -- Would they not be two-fold more fit for destruction than
they were in their original heathen superstition? C178
The Jewish proselyte is far worse than before they touched him. R5631:1
In many instances those brought to a measure of repentance and then fall
away are in a worse condition, more difficult to be reached by the Truth,
than if they had not had their conversion experience. Jesus referred to
the first-advent counterpart of these in Matt. 23:15. NS169:6
The few reached will have the more to unlearn when the times of
restitution begin. F641
Less likely to receive Christ as their Redeemer than if left in heathen
darkness. R1071:6
The poor heathen will be better off to hear nothing in this age and wait
for the age to come to spread true knowledge of God, than to be confused
and prejudiced against God by the usual misrepresentation of his character
and plans. R559:6
The evil consisted in the false ideas which they spread among the
Gentiles, teaching that circumcision and the keeping of Moses' Law
justified to life, thus missing the main point of the Law, to point to
Christ. R1071:3
Their teaching was not of a nature to greatly improve the morals: the
Pharisees believing in the immortal soul and eternal suffering, and the
Sadducees not believing in the resurrection. R432:6*
The majority of heathen who bare the name of Christ have evidently neither
part nor lot in the matter. R1851:2
So now, it is far better to let the world alone than to get them into
sects which will only blind them to the truth and misrepresent to them
God's character and plan. R983:1
The child of hell -- Greek, gehenna, destruction, the second death.
F641; R2603:3, 2601:1
Than yourselves -- The effect of the preaching of the bungling arguments
of sectarianism in India has been to abolish all religious faith and to
make the people infidels. C178, 177
Matthew 23:16
Ye blind guides -- This was not retaliation against something they had
said to him. R5679:1
Matthew 23:18
Swear by the altar -- Type of the ransom sacrifice. T22
Matthew 23:19
The altar that sanctifieth -- Therefore the Ancient Worthies could not
be presented before God as a sin offering, nor as a sacrifice at all,
before the altar (Christ) had been set up. R1872:4
Matthew 23:23
Hypocrites! -- The Lord passed by the criminality of murderers and

thieves as insignificant compared with the hypocrisy of this class. CR473:6
Ye pay tithe -- The Law which says "Love thy neighbor as thyself" (Matt.
22:39) is more important than the giving of tithes. R5094:4
They were great sticklers for the various features of the letter of the
law. Q756:4
Of mint and anise -- The very smallest of seeds, for an outward show.
R2485:5, 5389:3
Have omitted -- To ignore the claims of human brotherhood is meanly
selfish and inhuman. R1940:4
Matthew 23:24
Strain at a gnat -- As, carefulness to avoid things strangled. R5389:5

The observance of the mere letter of the Law. Q757:T; R5338:6
Swallow a camel -- Of hypocrisy and injustice. Q757:T
Being careful about the little things, but disregarding God's Law on the
weightier matters. R5389:5, 5338:6
A strong hyperbole, a figure of speech, showing their inconsistency.
R5389:5
Some are ready to find fault with everything that an elder may do, however
faithful he may be. R4930:1
Matthew 23:25
Clean the outside -- The cleansing of our minds is far more important
than the cleansing of our flesh. We might succeed measurably in cleansing
the flesh while the mind might still be impure. R3986:1
Matthew 23:27
Whited sepulchres -- Outwardly clean, but inwardly full of death,

corruption, uncleanness, unholiness. R5389:5, 2716:4
Today many are outwardly Christians, but inwardly skeptics; covetous,
extortionate, unjust. R5389:6
Matthew 23:28
Appear righteous -- Deceiving their own selves probably as much or more

than they deceive others. R2716:3
Matthew 23:30
We would not -- Nevertheless our Lord and the apostles were treated
worse by them than were the prophets by their fathers. OV59:3
Matthew 23:31
Ye are the children -- Thus do the Protestants who conciliate, imitate

and cooperate with Papacy condemn themselves. D26
If Pilate, Herod and the Roman soldiers had some responsibility for
Christ's death, the multitude who cried "Crucify him" had more, the
better-enlightened Pharisees and priests yet more, and Judas the most.
R4909:2, 1962:5
Matthew 23:32
The measure of your fathers -- You are actuated by the same animosity
today toward those of the same faith and spirit with the prophets. NS135:4
Matthew 23:33
Ye serpents -- This was not retaliation against something they had said
to him. R5679:1
Generation of vipers -- Greek, gennema, race. D603
Jesus did not condemn the Pharisees to the second death. HG617:1
How can ye escape -- Unless you change your course. R2603:3
Not the poor, degraded outcasts of society, but the most strict
religionists, the most popular and refined theologians of their
day--having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof. R521:6
He perceived in them so much dishonesty and hardness of heart that he
prophesied that they would have a hard time to reform character, even
under the favorable conditions of the Millennium. HG617:2
Not that they were already doomed to it, but rather that, from their
present attitude and course, they were in great danger of it. R1557:6
When a course is adopted and persistently followed, when conscience is
stifled, when reason and Scripture are perverted to selfish ends until the
heart is deceived and judgment overcome--who can predict the repentance of
such a one? R3674:1
Those who cultivate a spirit of opposition to righteousness are trifling
with a dangerous propensity to evil which will render it next to
impossible for them to turn back to righteousness and truth. R1424:5
Each violation of conscience weakens character. Character weakened,
degraded, can be reconstructed only with proportionately great difficulty.
HG616:6
Every step in the direction of willful blindness and opposition to the
truth makes return more difficult, and the wrongdoer more and more of the
character God abhors. R2603:3
Damnation of hell -- Judgment of Gehenna, destruction, second death.
R2601:2, 2603:3, 521:6
Not condemnation to torment. CR434:6
They were wickedly resisting God's grace and such a course, if pursued,
must eventually end in condemnation to the second death, Gehenna. R2603:3
Matthew 23:35
Upon you may come -- The penalty for. R4015:6

Of that age, that generation, God would require expiation. R5462:5
Let us not confuse these national and generational judgments with
individual judgments. R1702:1
In no way involves future retribution of the people of that generation.
Then they will not be judged nationally, nor as a generation, but be held
individually responsible for their own conduct. R1702:1
Does not this put them in the attitude of the scapegoat, receiving the
sins at the hands of the priests? R151:1*
The righteous blood -- To square accounts for the wrong deeds done by
mankind not due to Adamic weakness. R5874:3, 4428:5; Q299:T
The "wrath to the uttermost" which came upon Jerusalem squared up the
account so far as the past was concerned. R5874:3, 5390:4, 5256:2, 4651:6
A new beginning was made there, just as a new dispensation began. R4651:6
Similarly the remaining accounts of the world will be squared during the
great time of trouble. R5874:4, 4428:5; Q299:T
The Lord keeps a very strict account of the world's affairs, and every
injustice cries out for vengeance, retribution, penalty. R4428:5
Israel being a typical people, we expect similar things upon the closing
generation of this Gospel age. R1702:4
All the blood of God's holy ones, from the beginning of the Gospel age,
will be required of the present generation in the "great time of trouble
such as never was." (Dan. 12:1) R5462:5, 5256:2, 4015:6
As a punishment equivalent to all past ones combined was exacted of the
closing generation of typical Israel, so it will be with the closing
generation of this Gospel age. R1702:4
When Babylon's fall is complete, after God's people have come out of her,
then in her overthrow will be found "the blood of the prophets and of
saints and of all that were slain upon the earth." (Rev. 18:24) R1702:5
These partially willful sins of the world are not fully covered by the
sin-offerings. R5462:5
Righteous Abel -- Who typified Isaac, Jacob, spiritual Israel and the
wheat class. R2778:2-5
Not that Cain will be excused from further responsibility after his
children suffered, for it would be as unjust to let the real culprit go
unpunished as it would be to punish him and his children for the same sin.
R1701:3
Matthew 23:36
Verily I say -- Not Jehovah, but Jesus, Adonai, for the Father "hath
committed all judgment unto the Son." (John 5:22,27) E48
Because the judgment is in my hands. E48
All these things -- The trouble at the end of the Jewish dispensation
was a type, a parallel, of the great trouble coming at the end of this
dispensation. R5469:5; D49
For sins other than those of heredity, willful sins, there will be
satisfaction rendered in the great time of trouble. R5240:2
Come -- Greek, heko, signifying "to have come, be here", not future
tense, but present. R591:4*
Upon this generation -- Greek, genea, people living contemporaneously.
D603
The one in which our Lord lived. R1701:6
Fulfilled about 37 years later when civil strife and hostile invaders
accomplished the fearful recompense. D48
The generation addressed by our Lord had much advantage every way over its
predecessors, and failed to profit thereby. OV59:3
As it had more advantages than all previous generations combined, so its
punishment is equivalent to the punishment visited upon past
transgressions all combined. R1702:1
The present generation has much advantage every way. All the accumulated
wisdom and experience of the past are added to its own, but the great
moral lessons have been very generally disregarded. D50
Because the chief light of each age comes at its close, and sinners
against such light are worthy of more severe judgment. R5462:6, 4016:1
As a legitimate effect from preceding causes. D47, 50, 51
The Great Company will be allowed to suffer for the partly willful sins of
the world. R5462:5
Matthew 23:37
Jerusalem, Jerusalem -- The ancient city of Jerusalem suffered 32 wars

in all, was stormed and taken seven times, and was twice totally
despoiled. R1297:1*
How often -- For three and a half years he had been declaring that the
Kingdom of God was at hand; and six months in advance, John the Baptist
had similarly preached. NS780:1
Even as -- Greek, hon tropon, in like manner. R341:1*
Under her wings -- For safety. R4669:6
And ye would not -- Having stumbled through unbelief. R2518:6
Unworthy! Unappreciative! NS779:6
It is not for us to mourn that they were not ready, but rather it is for
us to realize that the plan of God was not thwarted or hindered by their
unreadiness. R3538:6
Matthew 23:38
Your house -- The Jewish nation. B70

The house of servants. R5470:3
Up to this time the Lord had blessed and more or less used the priests,
Levites, Doctors of the Law and the Pharisees. R3883:6
The nominal church: rejected in 1878 as, in the shadow, in 33 AD. R224:6
It must be an individual matter. Neither sects nor parties will be
acknowledged in this testing time, only the "Israelites indeed, in whom is
no guile." (John 1:47) NS633:1
Unto you desolate -- The favor which has been exclusively yours is now
withdrawn. B70; A72, 223; R5470:3, 2746:5
9:12) B225; NS695:5
Ending the 1845 years of Israel's national life and favor. B213, 226;
OV74:19; NS695:5
The Jewish age ended with the death of Christ, when he gave them up,
weeping over them. R532:4, 271:6; A223; OV28:T
There, at Jesus' death, a new age began--the Christian age or Gospel
dispensation. A72; HG540:1
The Kingdom privileges first offered to natural Israel were transferred to
Instead of showering the blessing of restitution upon natural Israel at
that time. R4463:6; CR58:4
The nation was adjudged unworthy of any further trial. OV38:1
Abandoned by the Lord during this Gospel age. R2746:2
The utter destruction of that nation as a people, as a result of their
rejecting and crucifying the King. R1373:3
Being found wanting, it was cast aside. R3539:2
As soon as spiritual Israel was begun, the earthly was set aside; yet the
first opportunity for membership in spiritual Israel was given to that
people. R4781:5, 3105:6, 2620:5; A223; NS606:5
Before that time, they were God's people, as distinguished from all other
peoples or nations, the household of faith; yet among them were only a few
Israelites indeed. R821:2*; NS268:1
Now, too, the command, "Come out of her" (Rev. 18:4) is not given until
after the announcement, "Babylon is fallen." (Rev. 18:2) R457:4*
Not set aside forever, but merely until spiritual Israel had been
selected. R4781:5; CR58:4
It was three and a half years after the death of Jesus before the
individual favor to the Jews terminated. Q195:2; B70; R5454:2, 2931:2,
271:6, 224:3
Rejected at the time of the crucifixion, but all the period from then down
to their utter destruction in AD 70 was the period of testing to that
people. R3105:6
A prediction given five days before Jesus' death. OV74:19; R805:4, 465:5,
224:3
Symbolized when the veil of the Temple was rent in twain from top to
bottom. R5163:3
These words, our Lord's first act on assuming office as King of the Jews,
AD 33, typified the rejection of nominal spiritual Israel at the
corresponding point of time, AD 1878. B246; C151; R5772:5
All the laws and regulations given to that people governing their exercise
of God's vengeance were here abrogated and made null and void. R3609:3
When Israel's typical sacrifices were repudiated by the Father. R5967:1;
Q721:2
The rich man (Luke 16:22), the Jewish nation, took sick; and the dying
process began. For 37 years they gradually died to all the privileges and
blessings which had been theirs as God's peculiar people. HG428:6;
NS819:3; PD60/72
Ever since, like the blighted fig tree (Mark 11:13,14), Israel has been
desolate as a nation. But there is a promise that this blighted fig tree
shall live again, become a living tree, a living nation. R5920:6
Matthew 23:39
Henceforth, till -- That day when. R4669:6

The Millennial day. Q107:2
The great Millennial day when all the world is to be blessed, when the
"glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it
together." (Isa. 40:5) NS252:1
That day has not yet come. NS780:1
Showing that the desolation was not everlasting. HG161:3
Indicating our Lord's absence during the period of the selection of
Meantime the Kingdom is not abandoned, merely delayed. PD65/77
Ye shall say -- From the heart. B226
As prophesied by David in Psalm 118:26. D639
Indicating that when that day shall come the blindness of natural Israel
shall be turned away. R3539:2
At his second coming as the King of glory. R4463:6, 4670:1, 2746:5;
Q107:2; OV38:1; PD65/77
Blessed is he -- "The stone which the builders refused is become the
Head stone of the Corner!" (Psa. 118:22,26) D639
Matthew 24
Matthew 24:2
There shall not be left -- The emperor Julian the Apostate endeavored to
rebuild the temple in AD 363 to defy this prophecy, but his design was
frustrated by an earthquake and fire bursting forth from the foundation
walls of the thrown down temple. R1297:1*
Matthew 24:3
Tell us when -- Perhaps remembering that Jesus' first advent had been
obscure and unrecognized by many. R710:2
Asking three distinct questions, each of which received separate answers.
R531:3
These things be -- The destruction of the temple, etc. R342:1*
Shall be the sign -- Indication. B160; R710:3
They suspected that he might be present, yet unrecognized by the world,
and possibly by even his saints, unless some expected sign should indicate
As clouds are a sign of storm and smoke of fire, so the specially
appointed works of his presence in progress will, to those who can
appreciate them, be a sign of his presence. R710:3
There will be no sign for the worldly masses; they will not know of my
presence and of the new dispensational changes. Only the few will know.
B162
What sign would be needed of Christ's presence, if he were visible. R555:1*
Of thy coming -- Greek, parousia, a being alongside, presence. B160;
D565; R2978:6, 1693:1, 591:4*; HG24:4, 26:6
The Greek word parousia invariably signifies "personal presence," as
having come, arrived. It never signifies to "be on the way," as we use the
word "coming." R580:5, 348:2, 223:2*, 20:4
Whedon's Commentary, page 277, says: "The word parousia never, in the
whole New Testament, signifies anything else than presence." Liddell and
Scott and Young's Concordance concur. R223:2*
The parousia began in 1874. R5565:6
End of the world -- End of the age. B160; D565
The Greek word aion does not mean this globe, or this general order of
things, but an era or age. R236:3*
The Greek word suntelia, translated "end," does not mean a "point," but a
"period of time." The same word is used in Matt. 13:39, "The harvest is
the end [suntelia] of the age." R236:3*, 223:1*
The sign of the presence is the sign of the time of harvest, one sign for
two things. The worker and the work are related to each other. R236:3*
Matthew 24:4
Jesus answered -- Verses 1 to 14 cover the entire Gospel age; verses 15

to 22 have a double application, literally to the close of the Jewish age
and figuratively to the end of the Gospel age of which the Jewish age was
a shadow; verses 23 to 26 contain words of warning against false Christs
and, in verse 27, our Lord reaches their question regarding his parousia.
B160
The Master traces various experiences of his people down to the
consummation of the Gospel age. R5522:2
Take heed -- To put us on guard against some who would assume his name
(Christ-ians) and deceive many by saying that the Kingdom of God has come.
R710:3
That no man deceive -- A sign will enable those who obey this injunction
to discern between the false and the true. R98:2*
Matthew 24:5
Come in my name -- "Many will assume my name." (Diaglott) R710:5

Saying, I am Christ -- Evidently refers to pseudo-Christs who have
arisen during the Gospel age, but before the closing part of the age.
R5865:6*
Not Sabbathai Levi of Smyrna, with his 400 prophets, is here meant, but
whoever claims headship of the church, as Pope, Czar, Synod, and
especially the coming Image of the Beast. (Rev. 13:15) D565, 580
Gamaliel mentions two of these false Christs in his speech referred to in
Acts 5:36,37. F565
They say, We are Christ's vicegerents, his representatives; our Church is
the body of Christ and his rightful and promised representative to rule
and conquer the world. R710:5
Not only have false christ systems, antichrists, arisen, flourished and
deceived many, but many individual false teachers have also arisen. R767:1
Deceive many -- By unrestrained fallen angels, with power to counterfeit
and personate humanity. SM199:T
Matthew 24:6
Rumors of wars -- Threats, intrigues of wars. D566

Wars, which have continued all through the age, are not the particular
thing the Master had in mind when he referred to the great time of
trouble. R5526:1; NS57:2
Must come to pass -- The physical convulsions are as needful and as
proper as the moral and social upheavals. R879:5
War is not the disease, but merely a symptom of the disease in the body
politic. So long as the disease, sin, continues, its outward
manifestation, war, is bound to continue. SM452:3
As long as Satan rules the world, strife, war, and confusion must reign.
R605:4
End is not yet -- The mere fact of war should prove nothing to the
Lord's people respecting the consummation of the age. We are otherwise
guided. R3327:1, 605:3
Matthew 24:7
Shall be famines -- Famines, pestilences and earthquakes are not to be

regarded specially as signs of the end. R605:5
Earthquakes -- Revolutions. A336; SM316:2
Famines and earthquakes have in all ages given evidence that not only man,
but his home, the earth, is under the curse. R879:1
Our Lord knew that these quakings had been before his first advent and
would be frequent during the entire period between the first and second
advents. R879:1
Matthew 24:8
Beginning of sorrows -- Primary sorrows, the secular history of the

Gospel age. D566
The start of trouble much more intense. R879:2
Matthew 24:9
Then -- During that same period, the Gospel age. D566, 584
Deliver you up -- Here the Lord separates the history of the true Church
and states it with similar brevity. D566
To be afflicted -- The faithful servants of the Lord will be ostracized
by the world, as our Lord foretold. R5173:6
Matthew 24:10
And then -- During that same period. D566
Matthew 24:11
False prophets -- False teachers. D566
Matthew 24:12
Iniquity -- Inequity, injustice, unrighteousness. R5857:4

Erroneous doctrine and consequent erroneous practice, worldliness, etc.
R767:4
Shall abound -- "Be multiplied" (Revised Version); in the end of the
Gospel age. R5856:2, 5118:2
Unrighteousness, false professions, empty forms of godliness, love of
pleasure, abound everywhere. R5857:5
The temptation is strong with many to follow the multitude. R5857:5
It will be a test for those who love Christ, as to whether they will
partake of the worldly spirit. R5118:2
The love of many -- Speaking to the Church. R5856:2
The many; the majority of the professed followers of Christ. R5857:4
Shall wax cold -- Will allow their love to grow cold, lacking faith and
zeal. R5118:2
Become lukewarm. (Rev. 3:16) R710:6
When not persecuted, it has been because there was so much of the world,
so much of the "cold love" toward the Lord and the truth, that they were
not worthy of persecution. D567
The Lord seems afar off, incomprehensible and almost unknown. R767:4
A cooling of our love toward God will mean a loss of our desire to please
him, which will include a cooling of our love for his service in spreading
the Gospel message. R4253:3
If we have an unjust twist in our mind, it will interfere with our
communion with God. R5857:2
Melancholy and sorrowful as the sight is, if we did not see it, we should
think that the Bible was not true. R2798:3*
Matthew 24:13
He that shall endure -- The test of endurance is one of the severest.

R1995:4
Unto the end -- Until "he comes whose right it is" (Ezek. 21:27) to take
the kingdom from the usurper and reward his faithful saints. R605:5
Patient endurance to the close of the race is needful for all running for
the prize held out in this Gospel age. R710:3
Matthew 24:14
This gospel -- We make a distinction between the Gospel of the Kingdom

and the Kingdom. The Gospel is the announcement beforehand that the
Kingdom is coming. SM678:3; R5010:1
Announcing the second coming of the Messiah to rule, heal and instruct all
Of the kingdom -- The word gospel here is emphatic in the Greek, and so
is the word kingdom. It is not any and every good message, but a special
one--this good message of the Kingdom. R1349:3
Shall be preached -- He did not say that it would be received. A91;
D567; R516:6*
The object is to prepare for this coming Kingdom. SM678:2
The real purpose of this Gospel age. D169
The entire work of this Gospel age was to be the preaching of the Kingdom.
R2139:1*
To everyone who has an ear to hear. SM679:1; CR437:2
We ask whether this has yet been done by Christendom, and reply, No!
(1892) R1349:3
This witness has already been given; the Word of the Lord, the gospel of
the Kingdom, has been published in every nation of the earth. D568; SM685:3
In all the world -- By 1861, the Gospel had been published in every
language of the earth. A91; R603:4*
Even though the traditions of men, which tend to make it null and
meaningless, are permitted to accompany it. R1077:3
"In the whole inhabited earth." (NEW Version) R531:3
The Bible, which is the Gospel message, has been translated into all the
national tongues of the world; and thus every nation, representatively,
has been made acquainted with the letter of God's message at least. R2518:5
For a witness -- Not to convert them. R5008:2, 2872:2, 2809:5, 2518:5,
516:6*; D169, 568; A91
To find that special class which the Lord is seeking, an elect few from
all nations. SM679:1; CR437:2; R5008:3
The present mission of the Church. R5822:2
This is the dispensation of election and not of universal conversion.
R2798:3*
The preaching of the Gospel during this age will serve as a witness in the
coming age. R517:1*
Later on the elect, as the Kingdom, will bless the nations, opening their
deaf ears to the Gospel. D568
Unto all nations -- "Go ye therefore and teach all nations." (Matt.
28:19) C215
But witnessing to nations is not witnessing to individuals. R603:4*
Shall the end come -- The end has come: "The harvest is the end of the
age." (Matt. 13:39) D568; R603:4*, 342:5*
The end of this age or harvest. R2157:2*, 2139:1*
Not the end of the world, but the end of the preaching of the gospel.
SM678:2
Before this age shall have fully ended. R710:6
The Greek heko signifies "to have come, to be here," not future tense, but
present. R591:4*, 555:4*, 342:5*
The remarks of the Master up to here are in place and needful, but only a
preface to the answer of the question asked. R710:6
Matthew 24:15
When ye -- When Satan's power begins to fall because the stronger than
he begins to spoil his house, then this system will be revealed and
recognized in its true character. R711:1
Shall see -- The Mass was not seen to be the abomination, even by the
Reformers. D572
The setting up of the abomination is not the sign, but its recognition as
an abomination and its improper place is a sign of greatly increased light
(Dan. 12:4) R710:6
When the mask shall be pulled off, and you shall be enabled to see "The
Mystery of Iniquity" (2 Thess. 2:7) as such, your knowledge shall be
the sign. R711:2
The abomination -- That Wicked One, the Man of Sin, the Mystery of
Iniquity, the Antichrist, the Son of perdition, the Beast, the Little
Horn, the Papacy. B271, 277; C95
Especially the Papal doctrine of transubstantiation and the sacrifice of
the Mass, supplemented in our day by various theories of self-atonement
urged by Papacy's imitators. D572; C102, 103; NS77:1
The false system of systems, including not only the mother system, Papacy,
but the daughters as well, for she is the mother of abominations. (Rev.
17:4) R711:1
So called because of the disastrous influence it has had upon the faith
and practice of the Lord's people. R5641:5
In another parallelism, fleshly Israel's rejection of the true sacrifice
for sins, and their retention of the typical sacrifices which were no
longer acceptable to God, were abominations. D572
Spoken of by Daniel -- Distinctly referring to Daniel, calling him by
name and quoting a part of his prophecy, giving us the assurance that it
would be fulfilled in the future--not yet come, but near, even at the
door. R3630:3
Stand -- Having stood. D573
In the holy place -- In the Church. D572; C26
In the stead of the true sacrifice. D573
Whoso readeth -- Reader. D573
Let him understand -- Consider. D573
There will be danger of misunderstanding the real abomination. C26
Matthew 24:16
Which be in Judea -- In Christendom, not literal Judea, because it is

itself a hill country. D573
The destruction of ancient Jerusalem is a type of the dissolution of the
nominal Christian church. R590:3*, 229:3
Flee -- Flee from all its errors. C26
From the influence of the abomination and from the system falsely styling
itself Christ's Kingdom. D573
Into the mountains -- The mountain, Christ's Kingdom. D573
Matthew 24:17
On the housetop -- Who has a higher life and experience and faith than
the merely nominal member; the most saintly. D575; R5456:4
Not come down -- Everything must be forsaken. R5456:1
All temporizing or human reasoning will be dangerous; no time must be lost
in obeying. D574
To take any thing -- Titles, dignities, respect, commendations of good
and regular standing. D575; R5456:4
Out of his house -- The branch of the nominal church with which he is
connected. D575
Matthew 24:18
In the field -- In the world, not a church member. D574; R5456:4

Return back -- Join the nominal church. D575
To take his clothes -- To secure valuables in human estimation. D575
Matthew 24:19
Woe unto them -- Special troubles at that time; but also symbolical.
R5456:4
It will be a special time of sorrow for the false religious systems in
that day, "those who are with child." Q842:5
That are with child -- With illegitimate spiritual children, not
begotten by the Word of Truth, but by error, and therefore "bastards, and
not sons." (Heb. 12:8) D575, 576
Symbolic of Christian people seeking to convert the world and teach
beginners. R5456:4
And to them -- Ministers, Sunday-school teachers, and others. D577;
R1379:6, 230:1
That give suck -- Those who are dispensing the milk. Q842:5
Look after spiritual children, proselytes to the church. R591:5*
That give out the milk of the Word, often diluted and adulterated, to keep
the spurious children alive, and starve, stunt and poison the true
spiritual babes. D577 They will fear to flee in this day, realizing that
but few of the "babes" would be able or willing to join in the flight; and
indeed only the spiritual will be able to endure the ordeal. D577
Matthew 24:20
Not in the winter -- When the winter-time of Babylon's trouble has

begun, in the burning of the tares. D578
This winter time coming is the time of Zion's travail when the great
majority of her children will be brought forth. (Isa. 66:7) R230:6
In season to be an overcomer. Harvest always comes in summer and is
followed by the destructive frosts of winter. R230:5
It is still the custom in country places to leave the burning off of
refuse until the winter. D578
"The harvest is past, the summer is ended [winter has come], and we are
not saved." (Jer. 8:20) D578
On the sabbath day -- The Millennium. The further we get into it, the
harder it is to abandon Babylon, when she pleads for help in her hour of
need. D579
The Jewish Law placed restrictions upon the people on the Sabbath and
hindered them from journeying as much as they might desire. R230:2
If some now attempt to obey, they will find such laws in force in Zion as
will make it difficult to get out quickly, unless those man-made laws are
disregarded. R230:2
Matthew 24:21
For then -- At the end of this Gospel age and its harvest. R5019:1
As a result of selfishness reaching its limit, becoming ripe, and going to
seed. SM266:1
Great tribulation -- General and terrible. D540
A time of war and trouble involving all nations. Q812:2
It will include social, financial, political and religious institutions.
PD92/107
The strife of nations and of parties, of unions and of combinations, will
extend to the individuals of the world and produce an individual conflict
and strife. NS22:3
Anarchy and destruction, born of fear and despair, and not of preference
or a love of lawlessness. R2869:4
Strife, hatred, malignity, anarchy. SM188:T
The tribulations upon Babylon will constitute a part of the great
tribulation with which this Age will terminate. SM411:2
Aggressiveness on the part of the trusts and syndicates will bring about
the final catastrophe of this age in the wreck of the entire social
structure by the masses. NS377:5
Coming along the lines of a lack of confidence, a casting away of
confidence. (Heb. 10:35) NS561:5
The poor rich will have a season of special sorrow and anguish when all
their accumulated wealth will become valueless. (Jas. 5:1-5) Q848:2
Abetted, not only by national animosities, but also by social grievances,
ambitions and animosities. R1355:5
Caused by manifestations of divine justice and opposition to sin and all
iniquity. OV286:3
Caused by a thorough transition from the reign of sin and death to the
reign of righteousness and life. R5399:6; A307
A dashing to pieces of earthly institutions; a great crisis. SM717:1, 162:1
The spirit of discontent, stirred up by knowledge, will ignorantly,
unintentionally, cause the wreck of our present institutions. R5364:1,
4755:6; OV126:3
A manifestation of divine justice. OV286:3
"A great earthquake such as was not since men were upon the earth, so
mighty an earthquake, and so great." (Rev. 16:18) Dxiii; OV275:1; SM236:2
So destructive in character that it will result in the dissolution of the
present evil, selfish, social structure preparatory to the establishment
of the "new earth." Q771:4
Upon the ashes of that time of trouble, Messiah's Kingdom will be
established with full power and glory. PD92/107; NS22:4
The beginning of Messiah's reign will mean the greatest revolution the
world has ever seen. Kings and princes will hold on to power and advantage
to the last, and as a result all will be dashed in pieces. R1385:5
It will be a battle between giants--on the one side financial giants,
trusts, etc.; on the other side gigantic labor organizations. PD92/107;
NS218:4
The anarchy of the French Revolution and the anarchy which overthrew the
Jewish nation in AD 70 are Scriptural illustrations of what may be
expected soon. PD92/107
When the last member of the body of Christ shall have passed beyond the
veil. R5173:3; NS664:6; HG611:6
A day of judgment upon mankind socially and nationally--a day of national
recompenses. D11
Not for the world's destruction; but that, as a plowshare, it may break up
the fallow ground and prepare the hearts of mankind. NS664:6
The beginning of his glorious reign of 1000 years, a very dark hour.
HG676:1
Messiah's reign will be a terror to evil-doers, for somehow the truth is
either directly or indirectly to bring about the smiting of the earth.
R1352:2
We are not to think of wars as being the particular thing the Master had
in mind when he referred to this great trouble with which this age will
close. R5526:1
Resulting from the winds of strife and trouble being let loose after the
sealing work shall have been accomplished. SM188:T
As the harvest of the Jewish age ended with a time of trouble, so our
Lord's words assure us that this Gospel age will also end with a time of
trouble. R5018:6, 4891:5; NS218:5
Nations must pass through it to be humbled before they will be ready for
the blessings from the New Jerusalem. SM441:2; R5805:6, 4795:5
Thereby the world will know that Jesus has begun his reign. R5523:1
This trouble we do not expect (1910) before October 1914. R4671:4
An allusion to Armageddon. Diii; OV269:2
Armageddon is still future (1914)--perhaps next spring. R5527:4 The
present war (1914) is not the great time of trouble in the fullest sense,
but the forerunner; the great time of trouble will be brought on by
anarchy. R5526:3
The present (1914) will drain the world of blood and treasure. Then the
nations, sick, weak and faint, will fall a prey to Socialism which will
become anarchy. R5526:4, 4955:5; HG499:4, 518:1; OV186:4; SM162:1
The great time of revolution and anarchy which the Bible predicts will
follow this (1915) war. R5767:4
Already begun. Daily the heat of human passion is growing more intense
(1916). R5864:4
Lasting until the time of divine interference. OV220:7
Held back during the time God's people are sealed in their foreheads.
SM188:T; R5753:1
The time when the present age will end and the Millennium be inaugurated.
R5554:2, 5462:6; SM411:2
At the close of this Gospel age there will be a squaring of accounts; for
willful sins (not hereditary) there will be satisfaction rendered.
R5462:6, 5240:2
The awful lessons then learned by humanity will be sufficient for all
time. SM188:T; PD92/107
Such as was not -- A ferocity never seen in the past. R5469:3
Because present day conditions render each member of the social structure
more dependent than ever before. D540
The only settlement of which will be accomplished by the establishment of
the Kingdom of God. R1305:3
Proof that this prophecy evidently referred to more than the destruction
of Jerusalem in AD 70. R711:2
Nor ever shall be -- Because so thorough will be the correction that it
will never need to be repeated. R1519:4; SM188:T, 717:1; OV186:4; PD92/107
These words are added by our Lord to the prophecy of Dan. 12:1. R5564:1,
5916:1; SM717:1; OV186:4; HG401:1; PD92/107
The end of all such troublous times. SM717:1; NS22:4
The great final trouble of this world's history in which, during a period
of anarchy unparalleled, all human hopes and ambitions will utterly fail.
SM266:1
The effect of this trouble will be so overruled by divine providence in
the establishment of the Kingdom of righteousness that such a tribulation
will never again be possible. HG417:3
If a great time of trouble must come, it is comforting to know that it
will be the last of its kind. PD92/107
Matthew 24:22
Except those days -- Of the time of trouble, revolution and anarchy.

C364; R5823:3, 5767:4; OV386:6, 430:6
Be shortened -- The Kingdom will stop the anarchy when men have learned
the lesson that they cannot help the human race. R5567:2
No flesh be saved -- The entire human family would be obliterated.
R5715:2, 5735:3; D579
National frenzy, anger, hatred, malice, will extend to persons: "Every one
against his neighbor." (Zech. 8:10) R5569:2
The kind of trouble the Bible seems to picture could hardly last more than
a year for any to be left. R5328:3
The convictions of the world's great generals: "Woe to the man or nation
who starts the next war in Europe, for it will be a war of extermination."
R1355:5
The Bible counsels meekness and justice as safeguards. (Zech. 2:3)
PD92/107 For the elect's sake -- Through, or by the elect, who will
intervene at the proper time. D578, 579; R5569:3, 5852:5; SM423:2; Q98:1
Christ and his Church in Kingdom power and glory. R5852:5, 5328:3
On the divine plane. They will then begin the work of blessing and
restitution. R5328:3, 5715:2, 5735:3; OV386:6
Except for the Kingdom of the elect and its establishment of peace. R3619:4
Those days -- Of anarchy, which follows revolution and Churchianity's
exaltation. R5554:5, 5767:4
Shall be shortened -- The work of blessing and restitution will bring
the strife to an end. R5328:3
By the establishment of Messiah's Kingdom. OV220:7; R5852:5, 5767:4,
5554:5,6, 1912:3; SM423:2
Then men will begin to seek the Lord with truly broken hearts. R5823:2
Be cut short. The work of destruction will be a short work. D558, 578
Instead of allowing the time of trouble to run its course and practically
exterminate the race in the reign of anarchy, the Lord declares that in
the midst of the trouble he will establish his Kingdom. NS218:5; R3587:1
Messiah's Kingdom not only dashes the nations to pieces, but also stops
the anarchy when it shall have demonstrated the fact that nothing that man
can do will be able to help the race. R5567:2
When men shall have learned the great lesson of what the outcome of
selfishness would be without divine intervention. R5767:4
We infer that the time of trouble will be sharp and short. HG612:2
"A short work will the Lord make in the earth." (Rom. 9:28) NS218:5
Matthew 24:23
Then -- That is, right now, just at this time. D581

In "the time of the end." R711:2
Lo, here is Christ -- The head of the church, as Pope, Czar, King of
England, Synod, Conference, Council; but particularly and especially the
Protestant Federation, the "Image of the Beast." (Rev. 13:15) D580, 581
Because worldly men cannot say, Lo here, or Lo there; they do not realize
his presence at all. R1692:6
Or there -- In any particular place. B165
He will not be a man limited to place, but a spiritual being, personally
present, yet invisible because he is spiritual. R711:3
Matthew 24:24
False Christs -- False Messiahs. R4872:6

Deceptions. R113:6
Not a personal Antichrist, nor that Satan will materialize as a man and
misrepresent the Lord. R5867:4
Each church claims to be the body of Christ with an executive or committee
as head, as Christ's representative in his Body. These are the false
Christs, false bodies of Christ with false heads, or governments, not
authorized by the Word. R5867:1,4, 3458:6, 766:6, 143:3; NS44:2
The greatest of the false Christs must be yet to come. R5866:1*
We should recognize a difference between false Christs (Greek,
pseudo-kristos) and anti-Christs (Greek, anti-kristos). R143:3
False prophets -- In addition to the false Christs, false systems, and
apparently to some extent outside of them, will be false teachers. NS44:4
Teachers of error. R143:3, 113:6
Large and prosperous denominations deceiving themselves and millions of
others. R4872:6
Theosophy, Christian Science, New Thought movements are all false teachers
outside of the Church of Christ because in no sense do they profess the
essence of Christian doctrines. NS44:5
Even after coming out of Antichrist systems, there are many false prophets
who assume authority to direct the consecrated, teaching theories
subversive of the truth and perverting Scriptures to support them. R767:5
Signs and wonders -- Doing many wonderful works is one of the old tricks
of Satan and his evil hosts. R5801:6, 1644:3
"Strong delusions" (2 Thess. 2:11) from the wicked spirits, more than even
Spiritists have dreamed of. R2189:3, 4379:3
As Satan's kingdom is about to be overthrown, in his efforts to support
it. R5802:1
Healings, etc. R1736:4
Including "tongues." SM566:2, 567:2
Miracles to deceive, yet professing a pious intention. R617:6*
We now see them multiplying all around us in Christian Science, Spiritism,
Theosophy and other such delusions. R1736:4
Evidences that Satan's kingdom is being hard pressed by the truth and is
nearing its end. R1736:4
Back of, and underneath all, is an occult power, a hypnotic power, wrought
by the Adversary himself as an angel of light. R2770:5
If it were possible -- But it will not be possible; these alone are
promised grace, wisdom and aid sufficient. F192; R4925:6, 3760:6; Q465:1;
SM289:1
Implying a great falling away from the truth, from the Bible, and from the
Lord himself. NS539:3
The shaking and sifting will be thorough; for it is the Lord that is back
of it, wishing to thoroughly separate the little handful of wheat from the
vast quantity of tares. R2704:5
It is of paramount importance that we put on not only the intellectual
covering, the helmet of salvation, but also the heart covering, love of
righteousness and truth. R2353:6
But this will not be possible, for the Lord has promised them the
assistance needful, and they will be in the attitude of heart and mind to
seek assistance and use it. SM289:1; NS95:4, 129:4
Nothing shall be able to deceive the very elect because the Lord will give
his messengers a charge, a message, in their interest, that they may bear
them up in their hands, lest they should be stumbled in this time. R3719:2
The "very elect" will be preserved, not through their own wisdom or
superiority, but through the power of God. R4379:3
If they were not divinely aided. The only safeguard for the Lord's people
now is the Present Truth. R2875:5
They shall deceive -- By suggesting the abandonment of God's plan and
cooperation in humanitarian schemes. E115, 116
Every feature of Present Truth sent by God is promptly counterfeited.
R5800:5
Lead astray from the truth and from the faith. NS44:2
Seduce, lead into confusion and error. R113:6
The Lord will permit Satan to have special power now for the purpose of
sifting and separating and approving the faithful and the unfaithful in
the nominal church. NS539:3
Owing to the hundreds of conflicting creeds and doctrinal systems, the
many "isms" and the strong delusions and multiplied errors. Q775:2
Implying that the trials and testings will be intensified toward the close
of this Gospel age. F192
The Lord did not overstate the terrible battle between truth and error
when he foretold that a thousand would fall to one who would stand, upheld
by God's truth and its messengers. (Psa. 91:4,11,12) R867:6
God has so arranged the outward evidence respecting the Bible that one can
find plenty to stumble over; only from the inside can the Word and plan be
seen in their true beauty and strength. R2875:5
Evil spirits will testify occasionally to the truth, comment on Millennial
Dawn, etc. Their deceptions will become bold and be apparently backed by
advanced truth. R2187:2
Christ will be more and more exhibited in his followers, but the spirit of
Satan will be more manifest in the remainder of the world. R5867:5
If fallen angels will soon be able to materialize, what a strong deception
it will be. SM199:T
The very elect -- Such of the elect as do not lose their crown; those
who "make their calling and election sure." (2 Pet. 1:10) F165; R4872:6
Those who put on the whole armor of God, shielded by the truth. R3490:4,
4351:2
All spirit-begotten ones are elect, and if faithful are the very elect.
R4872:6
They are his followers, his betrothed, his members, his Body, his
joint-heirs. R3761:1, 4474:5
How searching will be the tests to prove our love and loyalty to the Lord.
R3760:6
Those who follow closely in the Master's footsteps and who, instead of
leaning to their own understandings and to Satan's sophistries, have faith
in the superior wisdom of Jehovah. E116
None of the fully consecrated are suffered to be fully ensnared. R2178:4
All but the "very elect" will be stumbled by the errors and worldliness of
our day. R5801:6
The Great Company class are, for a time, a part of the nominal elect.
R4078:5
The Great Company, although in a grand position, are far inferior to the
very elect. NS359:2, 371:6
The saints; represented by the family of Aaron. Q465:1; OV387:2
Matthew 24:25
I have told you before -- To be forewarned is to be forearmed if we heed

the warning. R766:3, 113:6
Matthew 24:26
If they -- The false teachers. R113:6

Those who claim that Jesus is to appear shortly in the wilderness of
Judea, Palestine. R113:6; B157
Is in the desert -- Of Palestine, as many now believe. B157
Our Lord's revelation at his second presence will not be to a community in
a wilderness or desert; nor even to one nation, as at the first advent.
D583
In the singular, as if to teach us there would be but one occurrence of
this sort; no more. R5866:1*
He is in -- We do not expect to see him until we shall be like him.
R103:5*
The secret chambers -- Of spiritualistic seances. B158; D582;
R5866:1*,2188:6, 555:1*
In the plural, as though pointing out a deception oft-repeated. R5866:1*
Believe it not -- Because the signs or evidences of his presence would
not be secret ones, but would be manifest to all, as is the light of the
morning sun. R2302:6
Matthew 24:27
For as the lightning -- Greek, astrape, not lightning, because lightning

rarely flashes from east to west. The same word as in "The bright shining
of a candle doth give thee light." (Luke 11:36) B155, 156
The bright-shiner, the sun. D583
We translate the Greek noun astrape as "shining" instead of "lightning"
for evidently it refers to the sun, which rises in the east and sets in
the west. R5455:5
It is the electric fluid that lighteneth or causes the flash; then let us
read, "As the electric fluid which causes flashes of light." R348:5,
264:4, 189:2, 153:1, 114:4
The electric current or fluid, unseen, yet powerful, its presence widely
manifested by the light which it causes. R711:3
As the lightning is discernible only by its shining and power, so will I,
in my day, be recognizable to my waiting bride by the light of truth, and
afterward to the world, in the light of events and "the flaming fire" of
the day of trouble. R189:2
We recognize his presence by the lightning flashes of truth. R629:6
Spiritual light is divine truth. Hence a great and wonderful unfolding of
truth is all that the Bible gives us a right to expect during the presence
of the Son of Man. R98:5*
Spiritual bodies are represented as shining as the lightning. (Luke 10:18;
Matt. 28:3; Dan. 10:6; 1 Cor. 15:8) HG25:5
Its effect is different in different places. It shines in the heavens, to
the church; but sometimes it is a very destructive agent on earth, to the
world. R114:5
The first flashes bring terror and dismay to the world, but shortly the
full glory, the bright shining of his presence, will be recognized by all
and bring healing and blessing. R547:4
Man can see, by the destruction it leaves, where the lightning has been;
so, in the day of the Lord, men will come to recognize, by the national
trouble and overturning, that the great day of wrath is come. R598:2
Cometh -- Becomes present instantly, yet is first discerned by those
first awake. B160
Out of the east -- And can be confined neither to a solitary place nor
to a private room. D583
And shineth -- Everywhere. D583
Gradually bringing to light the truth on every subject. B156
Even unto the west -- Even unto the remote West. D583
So shall also the coming -- Greek, parousia, presence. B156, 159, 160;
D583; R2978:6, 1693:1
Not that he will come like lightning, but that he will be like the
lightning after he has arrived and is present. R348:5
Of the Son of man -- Christ, who became son (in law) of Adam. E150, 152
A title of high honor because it is a perpetual reminder of his great
victory by which he secured the title to his present and prospective honor
and glory, and the divine nature. E151
Matthew 24:28
The carcase -- The body, the food. D610; R1890:2

The real food, a satisfying portion. R513:6
The Lord gives us something special to eat when we are in fellowship, even
if only two or three are gathered together. CR32:3
The eagles -- Those of keen vision and appetite. D610; R1890:2, 629:6
Be gathered together -- Brought together by the mutual apprehension of
the truth, as eagles would be drawn to their food. R711:3; D610
A general "rounding up" of Israelites indeed to the feast of fat things.
R4937:3
Not one saint in all the world shall fail to come into contact with
Matthew 24:29
The tribulation -- The tribulation referred to is that of verse 9 and

not that of verse 21 and Dan. 12:1. R711:3
Of those days -- The 1260 years of Papal persecution. D584; R711:3;
HG95:3
The tribulation "of those days" should be clearly distinguished from the
tribulation at the end of those days. D583
Shall the sun -- Symbolically, the Gospel light, the truth, and thus,
Christ Jesus. D590
Be darkened -- Literally, in the dark day of May 19, 1780, which
extended over 320,000 square miles. D85; HG95:4; R711:3
Though we recognize a literal fulfillment of Jesus' words, it is far from
our opinion that this was their complete and only fulfillment, or even the
most important one. R711:3
The true gospel sunlight is already darkened. R1305:2; HG418:3
Symbolically, by denial that we were bought with the precious blood, and
by substituting the theory of Evolution. D592; R712:1
And the moon -- Symbolically, the light of the Mosaic Law. D590; R1305:2
Not give her light -- "Shall be turned into blood" (Joel 2:31) by claims
that the typical sacrifices were bloody and barbaric. D592; HG418:5
And the stars -- Symbolically, the false stars, wandering stars, pulpit
stars, vainly aspiring to be considered of equal authority with the
"twelve stars" (Rev. 12:1), the inspired apostles. D591, 594; R1305:2;
HG418:5
Fall from heaven -- Literally, the meteoric shower of Nov. 13, 1833,
covering the United States, and a part of Mexico and the West India
islands, 11,000,000 square miles. D588, 589, 590; R711:5; HG95:4
Symbolically, the pulpit stars make a great display in coming down from
spiritual things to Christian-citizenship-politics level. D595, 596
The teachings of the God-ordained twelve stars of the Church, the
apostles, will also fade from view, cease to be recognized as guides or
lights. D593; HG418:5
Powers of the heavens -- Ecclesiastical powers. R1947:6
Sectarian creeds and systems. D597, 595
Earth shall be shaken as well as the heavens. (Heb. 12:26) R712:2 Shall
be shaken -- Literally, we have had violent shakings of the heavens, or
wind storms and cyclones in our own day. R711:6 He will shake to pieces
every evil system which hinders, binds, oppresses, or blinds the people
whom he comes to bless--all of earth's families. R748:4
Until they are destroyed. R529:2* Signifying the "removing of those things
that are shaken as of things" that are imperfect and of human
construction. (Heb. 12:27) R712:2, 754:5*
He shakes and sifts because he would separate the many who have assumed
the name of Christ but who are not truly his people. R1307:6
The shaking will be the means of God for the liberating of some now
chained by superstition. R1308:4
The trouble upon the earth, society, will not reach its intensity until
the shaking of the heavens, ecclesiasticism, has broken the fetters of
superstition and plunged the masses into skepticism and open infidelity.
R1308:4
Matthew 24:30
And then -- At that time. D597

Appear the sign -- Greek, seemion, evidence, proof of the Lord's
presence, at his second advent. D598; R712:2
Not a sign that he is soon to come, but a sign of his presence. R555:1*
The thought might properly be that something will occur indicative of the
presence of the Son of man, that he has taken to himself his great power
and begun his reign. SM420:4
The wonderful inventions and progress in the world. R5373:5
Reaping of the wheat, the fig tree of the Jewish nation putting forth
leaves, worldliness in the church systems, the beginning of the smiting of
the nations. R5697:2
Since he is to be revealed in flaming fire, the sign must be some sign of
vengeance, some indication of righteous indignation against wrong. (Isa.
59:17,18) SM420:4
It is a sign to the world, not to the saints; they have all had evidence
of the Lord's presence long before. R712:2
The shakings in the church nominal and the raising up of new heavens
become a sign to the peoples of earth that their course of injustice is
Some will see the divine plan of the ages and recognize it as one of the
signs. The judgment of Christendom, social and ecclesiastical, is another
sign that the Judge has come. D599
The aggregate sayings and doings of the scoffers (2 Pet. 3:3,4) are the
fulfillment of prophecy, and we think constitute the sign of the Son of
man in heaven. R555:5*
Not his parousia. On the contrary, the parousia of Christ will not be
known to the tribes, or families, of the earth in general. SM420:3
In heaven -- The symbolic heaven, the professedly spiritual class,
Churchianity. D598; SM421:1
The sign appearing in the heavens signifies that the beginning of Christ's
judgments will fall upon the ecclesiastical systems of our day. SM421:1
In the new heavens, new spiritual powers then coming into control and
supplanting the old shaking and falling spiritual powers. R712:2
And then -- Still farther on. R555:2*
All the tribes -- The tribes of earth will not see the sign or proof of
the Lord's presence given only among the "heavens," the at least nominally
spiritual, the churches. D599
Of the earth mourn -- A general mourning of all, incident to the great
time of trouble. D600
The troublous times cause them to mourn. R555:2*
If the world has mourned in the past, how much more shall we expect it to
do when the trouble will be general. R5269:5
And they shall see -- With the eyes of their understanding. D600
The root word in the Greek is horao, to discern; that is, to apprehend, to
recognize, the fact that he is indeed present. R555:2*
When their eyes begin to see out of obscurity, there will not be anything
that they can see with the natural sight. R5269:5
They discover that sin is the cause of all the trouble, and this will lead
them to investigate, and thus finally they are led to desire, as well as
to recognize him. R555:2*
Son of man coming -- Drawing nearer and nearer in judgment; and they
will recognize that they, too, must shortly be involved. Hence there will
be mourning because of him (Rev. 1:7). SM421:2
In the clouds -- Of the time of trouble. B153
The tribes of earth will see the clouds of trouble and confusion incident
to the shaking of the "heavens," and realize it to be a storm which will
shake the "earth" also. (Heb. 12:26) D600
Well representing the confusion in general. R5269:5
Of heaven -- Primary sign of Christ's righteous judgments upon the
ecclesiastical systems. SM421:2,1
And great glory -- The glory of power and justice. B153
Matthew 24:31
Send his angels -- His messengers, such as he has used in the carrying
of the Gospel message throughout the age; those begotten of his holy
Spirit. D601; R885:3, 711:3
A great sound -- Sinaitic and Syriac manuscripts omit "sound." R907:6
Trumpet -- The seventh trumpet, the last trump, the trump of God, the
jubilee trumpet of knowledge and liberty, which sound symbolically from
October, 1874 to the end of the Millennium. The words "sound of a" are
omitted by the Sinaitic manuscript. B145; D600, 601; A316; R3471:6, 907:3,
711:3
The truth now proclaimed by the saints, the messengers or angels of God.
R885:4
Gather together -- Not physically, but spiritually; their minds, hearts,
affections, gathered together, centered, in the secret place of the Most
High; protected in time of strife and trouble. R4379:4
Bring together into sympathy and harmony with the truths then due. F274
Preparatory to the setting up of his Kingdom in power and great glory.
R1745:6
The first work of the Lord in both harvests was the rejection of the
nominal house, so that he may gather out of it his elect. R2982:1
Not into another denomination, but gathered to Christ, into oneness with
him, in fellowship of the spirit through the knowledge of his Word.
R2751:4, 1877:6
"Make up my jewels." (Mal. 3:17) B164; D601
"Gather the wheat into my barn." (Matt. 13:30) B164; D600 "Come out of her
my people." (Rev. 18:4) D601
The harvest began in 1874. R4842:3; D604; Q150:5
His elect -- The bride of Christ, to be gathered out of the world, of
all nations and classes. R4998:3
Consecrated runners for the prize, for whom crowns have been reserved. F165
We believe every saint will be brought into contact with the truth. While
confident that no tares will be gathered, let us have confidence also in
the Chief Reaper that not a grain of ripe wheat will be left ungarnered.
R888:5
From the four winds -- From every direction, from all denominations.
R711:3
From every quarter of the field. R1333:4; D601
End of heaven -- The nominal church. D600; R3431:6, 2982:1, 2751:3,
2490:4, 1877:6, 1333:4, 845:2, 711:3
Matthew 24:32
Of the fig tree -- The Jewish nation. D604; R5503:2

Put forth leaves -- Giving signs of life. R4788:5, 5503:2, 4705:6
Begins to plan for national restoration in Palestine. D604
Indicating that the blight time of Israel and of the world is at an end.
R5503:2
We see the Jews looking back to Jerusalem. We thus see the fig tree
putting forth its leaves, giving signs of life, looking forward to the re-
establishment of the Jewish nation. R4788:5
These buds will thrive, but will bear no perfect fruit before October,
1914, the full end of the "Gentile Times." D604
Summer is nigh -- The Hebrews divided their year into two seasons,
summer and winter. D602
Matthew 24:33
Know that it -- "Know ye that the Kingdom of God is nigh at hand." (Luke
21:31) D602; R127:5
When the time should come, such watching ones would know it. R593:6
Matthew 24:34
This generation -- Greek, genea, people living contemporaneously, not a

race. D603; R531:4
Not the generation he was talking to, but the generation that would see
these signs when they would be fulfilled. Q636:4; D603; HG95:4
Might be reckoned as a century, practically the present limit, from 1780,
the date of the first sign, to 1880. To our understanding, every item
predicted had begun its fulfillment by that date. D604
Those who are walking in the light of Present Truth are not looking for
things to come which are already here, but are waiting for the
consummation of matters already in progress. D604
It would not be inconsistent to reckon the generation from 1878 to 1914,
36-1/2 years, about the average of human life today. D605
The generation which witnesses the putting forth of the green leaves of
hope by Israel will see to the full the accomplishment of the change of
dispensation so long foretold. R4706:1
In distinction from the word regeneration; in other words, he would be
present before the regeneration, before the people of this age should pass
away. R342:4*
"This generation of vipers" (Matt. 23:33); this kind, or class. R539:1*
Matthew 24:35
Heaven and earth -- The present ecclesiastical and social order. D602
Pass away -- In the great time of trouble with which this age will end.
R4706:1
My words -- Plans or purposes. R421:2, 338:1
Matthew 24:36
That day and hour -- When the Kingdom shall be set up. E36
The divine plan which God purposed in himself from before the foundation
of the world, and represented in the sealed scroll of Rev. 5. R4451:1
Knoweth no man -- At the time the Lord was speaking. B18; D605; R4641:5;
CR95:5
Not the angels -- Not that the angels would be in ignorance up to the
last minute. R4706:2, 2972:6
Sinaitic manuscript adds "nor the Son." D605
But my Father only -- It does not say that none but the Father will ever
know. B18; D605; R5055:1, 2972:6, 1796:3; OV6:3; NS7:1, 33:1
It does not mean that those living at the time for the establishment of
the Kingdom would not know. R4706:2
Certain features of the plan were kept secret from our Master until he had
finished his course. CR95:5; R4706:2, 4641:5
Matthew 24:37
But as the days -- Not the coming, but the "presence," after arrival.
B160, 161
As the days of Noah were not days before Noah's time, neither are the days
of the Son of man days before the Son of man's presence. R2974:5, 580:5
Of Noe -- Before the flood. B161; R349:1, 342:4*, 237:5*; NS200:4
Doubtless much of the immorality and sensuality which marked the days of
Noah and of Lot will prevail in the world in the closing days of the
present age, though that is not the lesson here. R4706:3; B161; D606;
HG611:5
Everything will continue as ordinarily. R4706:3
Noah was informed respecting the coming change of dispensation; likewise,
the Church of Christ is forewarned. R4706:2
As the giants were in control in the days of Noah, so giant trusts are
getting more and more control of the situation now. R4797:5
So shall also -- Before the hot fire of trouble. B161
The coming -- Greek, parousia, presence. B159; D296, 606; R4797:2,
4706:4, 2978:6, 1874:1*, 513:4, 188:4
Of the Son of man -- The days of the Son of man are the days of his
parousia or presence, invisible and unknown to the world, known only to
the watchers, and seen by them only with the eye of faith. R2974:6
Matthew 24:38
They -- The world in general. D606

Were eating -- Pursuing the ordinary, proper affairs of life; ignorant
of the impending catastrophe. D606; R5455:6, 3355:6, 2974:6, 2957:1
Does not imply that there is anything wrong in so doing. R4797:2; B161;
NS7:6, 33:6
Showing that there will be no outward sign to indicate to the world the
time of the second presence. R5455:6
The world's affairs will not be interrupted by the Lord's presence. NS200:3
These things are not signs of wickedness, but mentioned to show us that
there will be no outward sign to indicate to the world the time of the
second presence of Christ. R5455:6, 4797:2, 580:5, 20:4
The world's whole attention given to fleshly desires, not understanding
nor caring for the spiritual. R327:1*
Into the ark -- Type of Christ and the power in him which will replenish
and reorganize society. A318
Matthew 24:39
And knew not -- Were ignorant of the coming storm and disbelieved Noah's
testimony. B161
So, in the early part of the Day of the Lord, the world will have no faith
in the announcement of his presence and of the impending trouble. B143
Similarly, at the end of this age, only the Lord's people will know of
Christ's presence and the time of trouble impending. D606; R5590:6
There was apparently nothing to indicate that anything unusual was about
to happen. R4797:2
They read not the signs of the speedy and great changes just at hand; they
are too busy to consider the testimony carefully, and only continue to
scoff. B167
The world will never be completely converted to Christianity by any
existing agency before the end of this dispensation. R2798:2*
The signs of the times will not be in the outward condition of the world.
R5455:6
"Where is the promise of his presence, while all things continue as they
How then shall the Church be aware of his presence, except by a sign.
R98:2*
First, in witnessing, we should present the doctrine of restitution, the
work of the presence; then, the manner; and lastly, the time, telling it
to none unless they show that they have an ear to hear. R216:3,6
Until the flood came -- Contrary to the teachings of many modern
theologians. A61
Though there shall never be another flood to destroy the earth (Gen.
9:11), it is written that the whole earth shall be devoured with the fire
of God's jealousy (Zeph. 3:8). B162
Marking the close of the first dispensation; as a great cataclysm of
trouble, anarchy, symbolically called "fire," will mark the termination of
the present dispensation. R2842:6
Likewise in his second presence, until disturbed by the commotion and
trouble of the epiphania, the apokalupsis of the King in the pouring out
of the seven last plagues. R2957:1
They did know when the flood came; and they will now know when every eye
shall behold him. HG24:6
Took them all away -- The Deluge was merely a quick means of executing
against the race the death sentence already expressed 16 centuries before.
SM62:1
By drowning all the people except Noah's family; in the antitype, by
burning all except the family of God in the symbolic fire--the great
trouble of the Day of the Lord. B162
Intimating that a great catastrophe, corresponding to the flood, is to
occur in the end of the Gospel age. R3934:6
The threatened catastrophe will be anarchy. R2842:6
So shall also -- Equally unrecognized and unbelieved. B161
From these statements we see that the world will be far from being
converted to Christ at his coming, and they will have little regard for
the teachings of the Master. Q816:4, 852:2
Again the doctors of the law and doctors of divinity, professing
faithfulness and praying continually, are blind to the fact that we are
now living "in the days of the Son of man." R3538:6
The coming -- Greek, parousia, presence; as of one who has already come.
B161; R4706:3, 2978:6
Matthew 24:40
Be in the field -- In the world, outside the nominal house. D609; R4706:4
Who previously had not been justified. Q151:2 The Lord will gather some
of his jewels from the field. R4706:4; D609
Not all "come-outers" will be gathered, but the jewels will be sought
wherever they may be. D609
One shall be taken -- To the food of Present Truth which the Lord would
supply. R2302:6, 513:6
Matthew 24:41
Grinding at the mill -- The place where food is prepared; the

theological schools and the ministry. D609; R4706:4
Grinding the husks of human tradition. R513:6
Matthew 24:42
Watch -- The signs of the times in the light of God's Word, for the
second advent of the Lord, the establishment of his Kingdom, the
transformation of the Church to the divine likeness. R2973:1-3, 4706:5,
2303:1
Watch yourselves and also the word of prophecy. B22; R4706:6, 2303:2
Watch your words and thoughts and doings. R4706:6
So that when the due time comes you may be one of the wise ones. B19; D606
This will serve as an antidote to worldly influences. R2303:1
The watchers keep separate the two thoughts of the presence and its
Watching intently, earnestly, interestedly, because they know of the good
things God hath in reservation. R2973:5
Watching implies hoping, and it also implies waiting. R2973:2
That the early Church lived in joyful anticipation of this longed-for
event is manifest from many Scriptures. (See 1 John 2:18; 2 Tim. 2:18; 2
Thess. 2:1-5) R1796:2
Implies not only some advantage in watching, but also that the manner of
the event might be so contrary to general expectation as to require some
discernment on the part of the watchers. R1796:5
In reply to your question, When?, I merely tell you to watch and be ready.
When I am present I will communicate the fact to all who are watching and
faithful. B163
Therefore -- That ye may be gathered or separated from the world and
theological relationships and from earthly church relationships to the
Master himself. R4706:5
An intimation that the manner of the second advent would be contrary to
the general expectation. R1796:5
Unobserved, unknown to the world. R4706:3
For ye know not -- It is not a matter that is left in such a form as to
be speculated upon in advance. His knock will be the first intimation of
Implies that when the event does take place the watching ones will know
it. Watch, because ye know not, in order that, at the proper time, ye may
know. R2972:2 D606
What hour -- "The day" according to the oldest Greek manuscripts.
R2972:2,3
Your Lord doth come -- This cannot refer to our Lord coming to receive a
dying one at death, as is often taught, because death is an enemy. R2303:1
Greek, erchomai, arrive. B163
Matthew 24:43
But know this -- Understand the reason why the time is so secreted under
symbols and parables. D611
If the goodman -- The householder, the devil. D611; SM102:2
Of the house -- Master of present institutions, of the present evil
world. SM102:2; Q621:2; R4706:5, 2303:2
Had known -- Although Satan has long known the Bible, he has understood
but little of it, for the same reason that man has not understood it--he
does not possess the holy Spirit. D611
Thief would come -- The Lord's second presence is likened to the
presence of a thief in a house, unknown to its master. R4706:6, 3784:5,
842:1
If he comes as a thief, it is not to sound a trumpet before him, calling
the world's attention to his work. R1742:6
He comes as a thief and snare upon the world. R1693:1, 326:6*
To take, first, his "jewels," his saints; and then to utterly spoil and
overthrow the affairs of this present time, that on its ruins he might set
his Kingdom. R3784:6, 4706:6
He would have watched -- Satan was taken unawares by the Lord's parousia
in 1874 and the harvest work then begun. D612
Would not have suffered -- Whatever knowledge Satan has of the divine
times and seasons and arrangements, he is prompt to use in opposing the
divine plan. D611
In what way Satan would have managed his affairs differently if he had
known sooner more about the divine plan we can only surmise. D612
To be broken up -- Had Satan understood the divine plan he would have
tried to make it very difficult for it to be carried out. Q621:2; D612
His "house," present institutions, will suffer complete collapse. D612
There would not be such a breaking up in earth's affairs as is now
impending; the Kingdom would be established, but not in the way in which
God designed. R4706:6
Slowly and surely the "strong man" is bound in his own house by the
stronger one now present. R842:1
Matthew 24:44
Therefore -- Now that you know prophetically that Satan will be caught
unawares. D612
Be always watchful for the evidences of my parousia, because the time will
come when it will be very important to know that fact. B19, 163
Ye also -- Believers, the Lord's faithful. D612
Ready -- Not in a literal ascension robe, but in a figurative ascension
robe--a condition of heart and life ready to welcome the Lord and his
scrutiny of our hearts and conduct. R2303:2
As ye think not -- The time of our Lord's presence could not be known
beforehand, even by the saints; nor was the fact recognized until nearly a
year after October, 1874. D612; R149:5*
Matthew 24:45
Who then -- In the harvest. B163

Few would be found giving to the household of faith meat in due season at
Faithful and wise servant -- Faithful to the "Master" and to "his
fellow-servants" and "the household." D613
God's grace will probably come through a human channel, through the
helpfulness of the fellow-members of the body of Christ, whom the Lord
will make use of in serving the meat to the household of faith. R2383:4
Ever since the Church has had an existence, God has raised up some from
its midst as special servants of the body, some who had special teaching
ability. R1206:4
God in his own time raises up suitable servants or expounders to dispense
his meat in due season. A319
Servants who are anxious, not only about the amount of service, but also
that it be in exact cooperation with God. R1797:1
Merely a steward, liable to be removed at any moment should he fail to
fully and duly acknowledge the Master in every particular. D613
One channel dispensing the meat in due season, though other channels or
fellow-servants will be used in bringing the food to the household. D613
A special messenger to the Church at this time. R6023:3*
Some one servant (animate or inanimate) whom the Lord would specially use
in the present time to dispense the present truth. R1994:3
Originally applied to Pastor Russell by one who became his bitter enemy.
He avoided the discussion which followed, except for references in Volume
4 and when the passage occurred in the International Sunday School
Lessons. R4482:1, 4473:3, 3811:2
Thousands of readers of Pastor Russell's writings believe that he filled
the office of "that servant." His modesty precluded him from claiming this
title. OV447:6*; R6011:2*, 4482:1, 2489:4* While this exhortation in
general seems to apply to one particular servant, we can see the same
principle would apply to each servant in turn as he would receive either
food or stewardship. R3356:5
Whether you like to call it a class or individual, whatever it be. Q355:5
Let each reach his own conclusions and act accordingly. R4483:3, 1946:2;
Q644:4
The whole body of Christ, faithfully carrying out their consecration vows.
R291:6, 149:5*
The Lord has used the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society as his channel
or servant in forwarding the harvest message in a most remarkable degree.
R4483:1, 4562:4*
Hath made ruler -- The Lord promised that, at the time of his presence,
he would bring forth from the storehouse things "new and old," and that he
would select one special channel through which those blessings would be
brought to the household of faith. R4482:4, 2693:6
Has placed over. D613
Sinaitic and Vatican manuscripts read "shall make." B163
It would be very remarkable if the Lord should change his channel of
sending the truth at this late date. R4483:3
In the interest of the household and for its comfort, joy and blessing,
the Master, at an appropriate time, would furnish to some one of his
servants a key to the precious things of his Word. R2694:4
No suggestion here of either the inspiration or infallibility of "that
servant." This distinction belongs only to the Lord, the apostles and the
prophets. R1994:3; D613
The Lord, as the overseer of his work, may today, as in every period, use
some special instruments for the service of the Church as a whole. F274
The Revised Version is preferable: "set over his household to give them
meat" as a "steward," not as a lord or master--rather a general servant,
or servant of all. R1946:6
Over his household -- His faithful people in general; but not nominal
Christian professors in general. R1946:2 The household of faith. R327:1*,
291:6
In this context we have "that servant," "fellow-servants" and the
"household." The Lord is indicating a chief servant of the truth and
fellow-servants, assisting in serving meat in due season to the household
of faith. R3811:3*, 1994:2, 1946:2
If neither the "household" nor "fellow-servants" were mentioned, it might
be questionable whether the expression "that servant" referred to one or
to all faithful servants. R1946:2
Each one of the household is to prove all things he accepts as spiritual
food, whether he gets it from the Bible himself or from that servant or
from fellow-servants. R1994:4
To give them -- When and as they are able to receive it. R806:2
Merely a channel for distributing the truth. His business is not to make
truth, but to circulate it. R1994:3
The fact that the messenger has been gathered into the kingdom should not
affect the message, which remains with the Church to be handed out to
others until all have been gathered. R6023:3*
Freely we received, let us freely give to others the heavenly food--manna.
R548:1
Meat in due season -- Spiritual food. OV356:2; R5651:5, 5566:2
Truth as it becomes due, dispensed by the holy Spirit to the household of
faith. B165; A349; OV6:1; SM404:1
Hidden things would be gradually revealed. OV6:T; Q554:4; R5055:1
For strengthening, upbuilding and preparing for a share in the Kingdom.
R5615:4, 4671:6
The deep things pertaining to the Messianic age formerly closed up,
sealed. R5055:1
To whomsoever has "an ear to hear." Q554:4 The Lord's bountifully spread
table of good things from the Bible. R4744:5
Dispensed in a manner and to a degree never before enjoyed by his saints.
R5651:5
Can we suppose the Lord would commend anyone who, by teachings or silence,
supports the eternal torment theory? R2599:1
The message of the Kingdom to the Church, given at the time the Lord
intended it should be given. R6023:3*
The stewardship mentioned is not a stewardship of talents and
opportunities, but a stewardship of spiritual food. R2694:1
Showing that the revelation of the "mystery" was to be a gradual one. OV5:4
God's Word is a great treasure house in which he has hid in past time all
knowledge needful to his children in all ages. R318:2
We are living in a peculiar time when some of the special features of the
Gospel are properly made more prominent than others. R500:6
The harvest is the richest season of the year, when the buds of prophecy
and promise have developed and are now bringing forth their golden fruit,
and the table of the Lord fairly groans under its bounty. R1899:2, 1890:1
It would be meat in due season in Noah's time to know about the flood; but
that information would not be meat in due season today. R5055:4
For those who are weaned from the milk. R230:5; OV356:3
Things to come, as they become due to be fulfilled, become meat in due
season for the household of faith. A319
Which, of course, would be the declaring of his presence. R189:2, 149:5*,
123:5
Matthew 24:46
Blessed is that servant -- A steward, the one channel selected by our

Lord for dispensing food to the "household"; faithful both to the
"Master," his "fellow-servants" and "the household." D613
Humble and unassuming, not claiming authorship or ownership of the truth,
but dispensing it zealously. D613
A certain servant which the Lord would use at the end of this age. Q355:5
The one whom our Savior has chosen as our pastor. R5828:4*
If the service be shown to have been performed, the title of servant is an
appropriate one. R4483:2
But it is a place of special danger as well as of special privilege.
R1946:4
And no less blessed is the faithful household who search the Scriptures
daily to see if these things be so, who prove all things and hold fast to
that which is good. R1206:4
Lord when he cometh -- Greek, erchomai, arrives. B163
Greek, ethlon, has come. R141:5
Especially when he is present. R845:4
Shall find so doing -- Shall find thus employed. D613; R2303:5
Faithfully utilizing every available talent in his service. R601:4*
Matthew 24:47
He -- While the Lord will be the real Provider and Servant, yet the food
will be dispensed through a steward to fellow-servants and the household
in general. R1946:6
Shall make him ruler -- Will appoint him over. D613
He will be exalted and given fuller stewardship over the storehouse of
truth, with increased ability to bring it forth to the household. B164
Over all his goods -- The whole storehouse of divine truth shall be open
to such to be ministered by them to others in the household of faith.
R1797:1; B163, 165 D613
Matthew 24:48
But and if -- It implies that when the Lord selects a servant, it is

upon condition that he remain in the Lord's favor and in harmony with him;
and if he does not, then thus and so shall follow. Q355:5
If the servant's heart is not right. B163
A solemn warning to those who are blessed with being servants against a
possible falling away from even such a blessed condition. R1797:2
That evil servant -- Shall become wicked and, losing faith. D614; R2303:5
That one previously spoken of. R149:5*
While these are servants, they are not faithful servants, but are engaged
in revelry, eating and drinking with the world. R593:5
Delayeth his coming -- Has not arrived. B163; Q355:5
Not denying that he will come sometime, but that he has come. B164
This would not be likely to be said until some one had said he had come,
nor would it delay until after he was due to come. R555:4*, 237:5*, 149:5*
Evidently the presence is one not recognized by the natural eye, but by
the eye of faith, else there could be no disagreement between the servants
as to the fact of his presence R123:5
His coming in the glory of his Kingdom, his personal coming being already
recognized. R1797:4
Matthew 24:49
Begin to smite -- Oppose and contradict. B163

It does not say that it will be so, but "And if he should." Q355:5
A disposition to tyrannize the household, arrogancy. R2694:1, 2303:5,
1797:4
Because they declare his presence. R555:4*, 189:2
We love fellow-servants too much to wish to smite them, and we trust that
we are too wise to allow the Adversary to draw us aside to squabble with
the enemies of the truth and thus hinder the more important work of
scattering the truth. R4194:3
His fellowservants -- Those who are faithfully declaring that the Lord
is present. B163
Co-laborers. R4482:1
It is not the special servant alone that will have to do with the
dispensing of the food for the household. R2694:1
The ones smitten evidently are taking the opposite ground, namely, that
the Bridegroom does not delay, but is present. R123:5
Service is their only commission, not lordship or self-appointment.
R1994:4 Eat and drink -- Imbibe more and more of the spirit of the world,
the spirit of selfishness, and become intoxicated with it. R1797:4, 292:1
With the drunken -- Become intoxicated with false doctrine. D614; B164
Become intemperate in words and deeds. R2303:5
Matthew 24:50
Shall come -- Greek, heko, will have arrived, be here. "Will have
come"--Rotherham. B164; R555:4*, 591:4*
Looketh not for him -- Is not aware. B164
Matthew 24:51
Cut him asunder -- Cut him off from being one of the servants privileged
to hand meat in due season to the household. B164; D613, 614
Separate him from the real Body. R920:5
Be gradually separated and drawn into closer and closer sympathy with the
mere professors or hypocrites. B164
It is inferable that such an one, being deposed from stewardship, another
would take his place, subject to similar terms and conditions as to
faithfulness. R2694:1, 1946:4; D613
His portion -- Share with the world the great time of trouble which will
follow the gathering together of the Lord's elect. R2303:5, 1797:5
With the hypocrites -- Though not a hypocrite, he must, because
unfaithful and overcharged, have his portion with the hypocrites. B164;
R2303:5, 983:6, 920:5
The Great Company are not hypocrites, but since the time of trouble is
properly for hypocrites, they will have their portion with them. R4655:1,
1470:2, 593:5, 173:1
Those who are not faithful enough to get into the Little Flock will come
into this condemnation with the world. R5256:4
Have a severe experience with the unbelievers in the time of trouble.
R2694:1
Weeping and gnashing -- Sorrow and disappointment. CR253:3
The perplexity and trouble coming upon Babylon. B164
Matthew 25
Matthew 25:1
Then -- Indicating that it was not applicable at once, in the Lord's

day, but sometime in the future. C91; HG94:3
Following the sign of the falling stars. D588, 590
Down at the close of this age. CR252:6; R5522:3, 5137:4, 3867:3
Shortly before the establishment of the Kingdom. R5150:2
At the time of the Millerite movement in 1844, typified by the visit of
the wise men to Bethlehem, and since. (Matt. 2:1-16) B247; C91; R5522:6,
288:3; NS10:2, 36:3
This parable is not applicable at all times and under all conditions.
R5522:3, 4692:3, 3867:3
The subject of this parable is the continuation of the subject of Matt.
24, the divisions of the chapter being only the work of the printer. HG95:2
Taken in connection with the preceding chapter, it is fixed as belonging
to the last generation of the church living when the Lord comes. R87:5;
HG95:5
Emphatic by position. R5866:1*
Kingdom of heaven -- In its embryotic condition. C91
The Church--the entire ten virgins. R4654:5, 87:5
Be likened unto -- This parable shows that in the end of this age is a
separation or division in the true Church of Christ. R5522:3, 2541:6
The object of this parable is twofold: first, the necessity for alertness;
second, to show that it is not sufficient to hope and pray for the
Kingdom, but the wisest possible preparations must be made for it. R3868:2
Ten virgins -- Pure ones, "holy people," lovers of the Bridegroom,
longing to meet him. C91; CR348:1; R4692:3, 87:5
Separate from the world, uncontaminated. R5522:6
Only those who have been justified by faith and consecration, because by
nature none are pure, none are virgins. R4692:3, 5522:3, 5865:3
Applies only to the true Church, the virgin class, not even to the nominal
church. R4692:3, 3868:1, 2763:2
For a time these will be all together, unseparated. R4692:3
No mention is made of the bride, but all of the wise virgins are mentioned
as those for whom the Bridegroom comes. C191
While there have been virgins all through the age, this parable refers
only to the virgins at the close of this age. R110:3; R58:2*
Took their lamps -- The Bible. "Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet." (Psa.
119:105) R5523:2, 87:5; C92, 191; HG95:5
All the virgins had the Bible and some light therefrom. R5523:2 R3868:1
Not until the nineteenth century has the lamp been in the hands of the
virgins. Prior to 1798 it was clothed in the sackcloth of a dead language.
R87:5
Went forth -- Many of all denominations believed in the message that the
second coming of Christ was at hand and went forth to meet him. R5522:6
For some 14 years prior to 1844 a cry had gone forth throughout the Church
that the time of the second coming of Christ was at hand. R5522:6
Corresponds exactly to the Miller movement, which is still (1890) in
progress. C91; HG95:5
A movement in the same geographical area, New England and the Middle
States, where the literal "sign" of the "dark day" (Matt. 24:29) occurred
on May 19, 1780. D588
Aroused, in part, by the great Meteorite Shower of Nov. 13, 1883, as
applied to Matt. 24:29. D590
This movement, the Adventist movement, was to end in the bitterness of
disappointment; the other, the "midnight cry" movement of verse 6, was to
end in success. HG79:3, 95:1
The movement is a representative one. Not all the church went forth, but
it was an important movement in the church, and ended in the
disappointment of 1844. R39:4*; HG70:1
In going, they walked by faith and not by sight. R88:1
The bridegroom -- Jesus, personally, is the Bridegroom, and not Jesus
and the overcomers. R398:4
Christ, who is "afar off," and is now entering into a covenant with those
who would be members of his bride class. R5522:3
Matthew 25:2
Five of them were wise -- The little flock, the fully consecrated. C93,
94; F75
In addition to purity, watchfulness and zeal are essential. R5522:6
They will understand features of the divine plan previously kept secret.
R5150:2
The wise were those who heard and obeyed the cry. R40:5*
Full of faith, fervent love and the spirit of prompt obedience. C190
The fifth chapter of the Song of Solomon gives even fuller suggestions
respecting these two classes. R4249:3*
The numbers are not significant, neither are the proportions. C91
Five were foolish -- The Great Company class. C94; R5656:2
Lacking love and zeal, they are overcharged with the cares and plans of
the present life. R5656:2, 4078:5, 1952:1; C194
In that they permitted the things of the present life to balance against
the things of the life to come. R5865:3
Allowing their first love and fervency of spirit to cool, and their faith
and promptness of obedience consequently to abate. C190
Probably in very large number all around us. R5134:4
In that they lived carelessly. F75
Have been in the household of faith, but not overcomers. R1952:4
Not all the virgins will be acceptable as members of the bride. R5522:6
In addition to purity, a certain amount of watchful zeal will be required.
R5522:6
The foolish were those who heard the cry and, for want of sufficient
light, could not obey the cry. R40:5*
Some were actuated by excitement and carried along with the occasion. R88:1
Their cause of failure--idleness. R4079:4*
In the end of this age a division will take place in the true Church.
R5522:3
They will wash their soiled robes during the great tribulation. R5545:1
But they are still virgins in the parable, not corrupt or lovers of sin.
R4078:5
Matthew 25:3
Took no oil -- The spirit of the truth. C92

The wisdom, the understanding of the divine Word. R4693:1
One class had the spirit in their hearts as well as light in the Word, oil
in their vessels and in their lamps; others had only the light of the
Word, oil in the lamp. R288:3
Matthew 25:4
But the wise -- "None of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall
understand." (Dan. 12:10) OV268:3
Took oil -- The holy Spirit of truth, of consecration and obedience.
C94, 194, 191; R5523:2, 4693:5, 4654:6; CR253:3
In their vessels -- In themselves, in their hearts. C92, 191; R5523:2
Only those having a good supply of the spirit of truth will be able to
hold out. R5523:2
Matthew 25:5
Bridegroom tarried -- Seemed to the expectant ones to tarry. C92

The Millerite movement culminated in a disappointment in 1844. R5522:6
The Church is betrothed to the Bridegroom, Christ, when "afar off" during
this Gospel age. R5522:3
The 30 years of tarrying between 1844 and 1874 was the exact parallel to
the 30 years of tarrying at the first advent, from the visit of the wise
men until Jesus was anointed at Jordan. R289:4, 88:2, 38:2*
The delay of the Bridegroom serves as a test to the virgins invited to go
in to the marriage, proving who are the wise and who are the foolish.
R3868:3
Slumbered and slept -- Many of them dreamed strange, unreasonable
things. C92; CR253:2; R5522:6, 3868:3, 88:1
A general stupor, uncertainty and drowsiness came over all. R5522:6, 3868:3
During which time the lamps were measurably neglected. R3868:3
Were in darkness. HG95:6
Corresponding to Elijah's sleep under the juniper tree (1 Kings 19:5,6);
covering the period of 1844 to 1874. R4211:6*
Matthew 25:6
At midnight -- At a fixed hour the Bridegroom set out for the bride; at
midnight the Bridegroom came. C191; R5522:6
When the knock of prophecy was heard announcing the Lord's presence in the
autumn of 1874, almost immediately it began to be recognized. C190, 93
Or, during the night. The Greek word is not definite like ours. R88:1
The call was made before morning. R88:1
His presence makes it morning. The cry, made at midnight in the parable,
points to the morning of the parable. R39:5*
Very early in the morning of the new age; but it was the midnight hour so
far as the deep slumbering of the virgins was concerned. C93
The movement, proving that Christ was due in 1874, began 15 years after
1844, the mid-point between 1844 and 1874. HG96:2
There was a cry -- Which sounded forth in 1874, just 30 years after the
Miller disappointment. R5522:6, 3868:3
This cry still goes forth and will continue until all the consecrated
virgin class have heard and have had their faith and loyalty tested by it.
C191
So loud that all of the virgins will hear it, even though the world will
have no knowledge of it. R4693:4, 3869:5
As there was a proclamation of Jesus in the flesh as King, so there must
be correspondingly a proclamation of Jesus, the new creature, as King of
glory. R2645:3
Implying that something from the prophetic word at the appropriate time
will call the attention of all the virgin class to the presence of
Messiah. R4692:6
Appropriately, the monthly paper, "The Midnight Cry," attracted general
attention with a circulation of up to 15,000. This was more than the
combined total of all the other papers devoted to the subject of the
Second Advent. R88:2
The name "Midnight Cry" then disappeared from the publication because, as
stated at the time, it had done its work. R39:6*
As long as the cry goes forth there will be opportunity to hear it. All of
the virgin class must hear it. R5523:2, 4692:6
Behold the bridegroom -- Not cometh; but behold, he is present, he has
come. CR253:2; Q73:2; R5523:2, 3869:4, 149:1*
Not in the flesh; he is never to come in the flesh again. R5522:6
Christ came in the character of a Bridegroom in 1874. R39:6*
All the virgins will hear this message. R5523:2
This message of the Bridegroom's presence will cause the separation which
will test and prove each individual of the virgin class. C192
The revelation of Christ to the world will be subsequent to his revelation
of himself to the wise virgin class. R5523:1
And the further announcement, "Thy God reigneth." (Isa. 52:7) R2645:3
Cometh -- Omit, not in the oldest Greek manuscripts. C93
Go ye out -- Taking their lamps and following the Bridegroom,
representing leaving all else to follow Christ in this time of his
presence; equivalent to leaving Babylon, where the virgins had mainly
been. C194
This movement finds exact parallels with Elijah's movements from leaving
Gilgal until he crosses Jordan. (2 Kings 2:1-8) HG69:6
Matthew 25:7
All those virgins -- Not the world nor the nominal church in general.
C192
While all will be aroused, only those will be led out who have the spirit
of the truth in their hearts as well as a knowledge of the Bible--a
trimmed lamp. C92
Arose -- All the virgins were to be aware of his presence after he had
come. Even the foolish virgins know of the Bridegroom's presence. R5523:5
It is but a kindness on the part of the virgins who are awake that they
shake and otherwise attempt to arouse the sleeping virgins. R2763:6
Trimmed their lamps -- Searched the Scriptures. C92; R5523:2, 3869:4;
PD92/107
Trim away every vestige of error as fast as it becomes apparent to us so
that the pure light of truth may shine out through the medium of a clear
and transparent character. R3243:3
Our work in the present time is not only to proclaim the Bridegroom's
presence, but to assist those who have the oil in their vessels to trim
their lamps. R3869:5
Have clearer enlightenments from the Word of God. R4654:6
Matthew 25:8
The foolish said -- The parable is a progressive one. One might fall out
from the wise and become foolish. Q230:1
The foolish were the first to know and confess their lack. R116:2
Give us of your oil -- Your spirit of consecration. C94
There is only one way to get the holy Spirit, that is from the Lord and on
his own terms. We need to look well to our covenant with the Lord and our
zeal for him and the truth. R5523:2
We wish we could be as earnest at Bible study as you are. R5523:2
Tell us how you know these things, why you feel so sure about them. R3868:6
Lamps are gone out -- We are not able to appreciate and apply the
Scriptural prophecies relative to Christ's second coming. R5523:2; C93
They fail to get clear light on the subject of the Bridegroom's presence.
C194; R4693:1
Though all the virgin class trim their lamps, all cannot see. Only those
who have oil, the fully consecrated, can get the light from their lamps
and appreciate the facts. C93
The disappointment of 1844 cast reproach on the subject of time; and the
prudent reached the worldly-wise conclusion that, having been disappointed
once, they would be more prudent in the future and not expose themselves
to contempt. R289:1
"None of the wicked shall understand, but the wise shall understand."
(Dan. 12:10) Cii; HG316:4
Matthew 25:9
But the wise -- They will not be in darkness that that day shall
overtake them as a thief. (2 Thess. 5:4) Q230:1
Saying, Not so -- The spirit of consecration, and its attendant light,
cannot be communicated from one virgin to another. C94
One person could no more consecrate himself for another person than he
could transfer either his natural or his spiritual life to another person.
HG733:3
Not enough for us -- None can secure too great a supply of the holy
Spirit. R3868:5
Not an ungenerous spirit; it was just that they had none too much
themselves. R5523:4
Go ye rather -- We can do no more than tell them how and where the oil,
the light, must be obtained. We must go on in our personal preparations.
R3868:6
To them that sell -- To the market of experience in the great time of
trouble. C94; R1952:1
Go to God who "giveth liberally." (Jas. 1:5) R5523:4
Buy for yourselves -- Each virgin must buy for herself. R88:4; C94
The fruits and graces of the holy Spirit cannot be had for the asking;
they must be bought in the market place of experience. R3868:5
There is only one way to obtain the light, and that is through a patient,
persevering study of the divine Word under the guidance of the holy
Spirit. R3868:6
In order to receive a fresh supply of oil we need to look well to our
covenant with the Lord and to our zeal for him and the truth. R5523:3
It will cost some of them considerable self- sacrifice and humiliation to
learn their lessons. R4693:1; C94
This costs something of time and study, and of neglect of the things of
this life. R5523:4
The waking up of the Great Company to go out and purchase the oil is the
latter part of the harvest work. R5761:2
Matthew 25:10
They went to buy -- If it is not already too late to go to buy the oil,
it soon will be. R3869:5
Bridegroom came -- Any who did not know of the presence would lack
evidence that he belonged to the bride class. R5523:5
All the virgins were to be aware of his presence after he had come. R5523:5
Went in -- The entering in to the marriage began in 1878 and still
continues. R3868:6
One after another, passing beyond the veil. R5523:4, 3868:6
The dead by resurrection, and the living by translation or change. R181:2*
Braving opposition, hostility and darkness of night, through which they
must pass to go with their beloved Bridegroom to his house and enter in.
R4654:5
A going in to a condition rather than a place; implying a withdrawing from
the world and a coming into a condition of special preparation for the
marriage. R88:4
As the "going forth" (verse 1) and the "going out" (verse 6) were not
literal, but acts of faith; so also the "going in"--the virgins are guests
by faith, by being in light at a certain stage of development. R40:1*
The going in, like all other features of the parable, is a work of time,
which we understand has been in progress since 1874. R289:5
Beautifully illustrated by the happy bridal procession which escorted the
Jewish bride to her husband's home with music, lighted lamps and every
demonstration of joy. C196
After the going in comes the inspection of the guests, followed by a
casting out of one at least who has not "the wedding garment." (Matt.
22:1-14) R40:5*
To the marriage -- "To the nuptial feasts." (Diaglott). R87:1; C191
And the door -- To the marriage feast; not the door of mercy, but the
door to the high calling. C195; R4693:1, 4654:5; NS319:6
All opportunity to become of the wise virgin class by engaging in the
harvest work. C210, 213, 221; R1952:1
The door to the Bride class. Q738:2
The door through which the Bride class shall enter and the door to service
should be kept separate. Q75:1
Not the door of hope, either to the foolish virgins of Christendom, nor to
the heathen world. NS295:4
Though the call has ceased, the door is not yet shut. The call and the
door are distinct and separate. R1112:2
Was shut -- The closing of the narrow way of this Gospel age. NS195:4
"I am he that shutteth and no man openeth." (Rev. 3:7) C195
We should lose no time dreaming that the door is shut. R5633:5
Evidently the door is not yet shut, but who can say how soon. Cii; R5068:6
Not yet closed, but stands ajar to permit replacement of lost crowns.
Q150:6; R1113:1
Will be forever closed when the full predestinated number of the Bride of
Christ has been found faithful. R1951:6, 5523:4, 1112:6; Q73:2; C210, 221,
195; NS319:6, 804:1
The door will close because the full number elected will have attained the
necessary character-likeness to Christ and will have stood the necessary
testings. R4693:2, 3869:1; Q73:2, 230:1
Marking the full end of all opportunity for even the called ones
thereafter to attain the prize of the high calling. C213
The choicest blessings of all time will soon be won or lost. SM258:2
No one else will ever be of the Bride class. CR253:3
Not merely is the world shut out, but the foolish virgins also. R4654:5
After the door is shut there will be no more begetting to the spirit
nature. R5761:4
When that time comes there will be a corresponding suppression of truth by
the nominal church. R3532:4, 1448:4
The door merely shuts in the Kingdom class, the Little Flock; God has
other blessings for those outside. R5523:4 This does not mean that the
foolish virgins will be consigned to eternal torment. F75; R5523:4
The deliverance of the last member of the Body will follow shortly after
this. C231; R5776:6
It is not ours to say which, individually, are shut out; but we believe
that none were shut out who, up to that time, had made an entire
consecration to God. R289:6
Matthew 25:11
Afterward -- After they get the oil and recognize that the end of the
age has come. R5523:5, 1952:1
After the door is shut, but apparently before the marriage takes place.
R290:4
Christ harvests the earth before he makes open manifestation of his
presence. HG25:3
Came also -- They had gotten the experience, development, knowledge and
the light, and they came. Q74:T
Having gotten a clearer enlightenment from the Word of God. R4654:6
Their knowledge of the presence of the Lord came not from the light
shining from the light of prophecy, but rather from the judgments upon the
nominal church. R290:4
The other virgins -- Although foolish, still virgins, not impure.
CR348:1; R4693:2, 4078:5
Made wise by getting the oil they previously lacked. NS320:1
Saying, Lord, Lord -- Knocking at the door in prayer. R5523:5
Open to us -- We desire also to be of the Bride class. R4654:6
Matthew 25:12
I know you not -- As the Bride class; but they all belong to the company
of virgins, the Bride's companions who follow after her. R5865:4
I do not recognize you; my Bride is complete. R5383:6, 5523:5, 4693:4,
4654:6, 3869:1; Q739:T
They lost the great prize. R4693:5
They will then realize they have failed to make their calling and election
sure. R1952:1
All outsiders are treated as strangers, as unknown. R1951:6
There is nothing in the parable to indicate that the foolish virgins will
be aware of their foolishness until the opportunity of going into the
feast has passed by. C194
Matthew 25:13
Watch therefore -- How absurd it would be to tell them to watch for a

thing, and in the same breath assure them that the watching would be
useless because none would ever know! R2763:5
The virgins alone, not the world, are called upon to watch and wait for
the Lord from heaven, the Bridegroom. R2763:6
Because, if watching faithfully, they will know of his second coming. It
will be distinctly announced. R2763:6
The watching suggested by our Lord refers to the time prior to the
presence. R3869:5
Ye know neither -- Although the time of the Master's coming could not be
known in the past, nevertheless it would be known to all the virgin class
in due time. R4693:4
Wherein the Son -- These words, to the end of the verse, are not in any
of the oldest Greek manuscripts. R3869:2
Matthew 25:14
Kingdom of heaven -- The Revised Version notes that these words are not
found in the ancient manuscripts, but it is the kingdom of heaven in
embryo, the church, that is discussed. R2764:2
Is as -- We are not to confound the parable of the pounds with the
parable of the talents. They teach different lessons. R5492:2, 2764:1
The parable of the pounds and the parable of the talents are companion
parables, illustrating from different standpoints the responsibilities of
the stewardship of God's people. R1972:3
A talent is sixty times as valuable as a pound. In the parable of the
pounds, each got one pound; but in this parable the number given varied.
R4693:3, 3869:3; HG665:2
This parable illustrates the fruits of labor. The ratio of increase is the
same with both of the faithful servants, and the same approval is
expressed to each. R1973:4
Illustrating the different abilities of God's people, their accountability
according to ability, and that the same results are not required of all,
but simply faithfulness by each in the use of what he possesses. R2764:1,
1973:4
A man -- The Lord Jesus. R4693:3, 2764:2, 5386:1 Into a far country --
Heaven itself. R2764:2, 5018:3, 4693:3; CR306:5; SM508:2
For investiture in authority to be the great King of earth. HG439:1;
Q91:4; SM693:2; NS678:2
To appear in the presence of God to present on behalf of mankind the
sacrifice for sins and, incidentally, to be crowned, highly exalted and
honored. R2764:2
Gives the thought of a considerable time to elapse between the Master's
leaving and his return. R2764:2, 1972:6
His own servants -- Not the world in general, only the consecrated; not
even the general household of faith. R2764:3, 4693:5, 3870:1, 3696:1,
1281:5; F662; SM508:2
All who would become his disciples throughout the Gospel age down to his
second advent. R4659:3; R5386:1; SM629:2, 508:2
They had all engaged to serve him, and he had a right to expect of them a
sincere and faithful interest in the work. R3696:1, 1281:5
Addressing those who will be alive at his second advent, and speaking as
if they were the representatives of all his faithful followers throughout
the Gospel age. SM629:2
A number of servants is implied, yet only a sample illustration of three
is given as representative of the whole. R2764:2
Unto them his goods -- Upon consecration, he appoints us his stewards
over the things we have--our all--time, influence, talents. R5386:1;
SM508:2; PD59/70
Certain blessings, privileges, opportunities. R4693:3
All of his interests and affairs. R2764:3
Entrusting various stewardships of wealth, influence, talent and
opportunity. F419
In the day of reckoning the Lord will ignore the affairs of our lives
which preceded our consecration, and merely judge us according to our use
or misuse of our consecrated time, influence, talents, etc. R3870:2
Matthew 25:15
And unto one -- Each is a steward and should individually, not

collectively, as a commune, manage his own affairs and render his own
account. D480; R1862:5
Gave five talents -- Can be viewed from two standpoints, both true: our
natural talents or our spiritual qualities; or the two views can be
combined. R3870:4-6
What are these talents? The very talents which we possessed before
consecration, and which, in consecration, we laid down at the Lord's feet.
SM510:1
All those things and opportunities which are over and above what we need
for the necessary and reasonable maintenance of ourselves or our families.
R3696:4, 1282:2
Natural gifts, consecrated to the Lord and accepted by him as being owned
by the man's new nature. R2764:5
Represents our opportunities for service according to our several
abilities. R5386:2, 5932:1, 4660:4, 4659:6; Q536:3; SM629:2
Some might have a talent for private conversation, another for public
service, another for writing. Q536:3
Wealth, influence, intellectual power, education, public utterance, time,
opportunities. SM509:1, 509:1; R3870:4, 4660:1
About $6000, a talent being equivalent to $1200. SM509:1
There are not many five-talented people in the world; the world, the flesh
and the devil bid so high for their services that most of those who become
the Lord's people are of the lower classes. R2764:5
In some respects all God's people have one common footing, as represented
by the pound. In another respect their opportunities, privileges and
advantages vary, as represented by the talents. R4693:3
"The manifestation of the Spirit [a portion, at least one talent] is given
to every man [in this consecrated Church] to profit withal." (1 Cor. 12:7)
R2764:3
The more talents possessed, the greater the responsibility. R4660:4
The man with the five talents would have more difficulty in keeping them
fully employed, fully devoted and fully separated from worldly ambitions
than would the man who had fewer. R4660:4
The man of five talents would have the danger of being puffed up, heady
and high-minded. R4660:1
If we assume that Adam, as a perfect man, had ten talents, it would be
quite appropriate to say that not one of his posterity today has more than
five talents, and the majority much less--two talents or one. R3870:3
A talent represented 3000 shekels of silver. There were great shekels and
small. In our money, $1000 or $2000. R3870:3
To another two -- Would have a natural advantage, he would be neither so
likely to be discouraged nor to be puffed up. R4660:1
Those consecrated with no families and a reasonable degree of health have
at least two talents--time and health. R3696:3, 1282:1
"Give me neither poverty nor riches." (Prov. 30:8) R4660:1
To another one -- Many of small talents increase them by use and become
quite proficient in the truth. R4659:6
The man with the one talent has, in some ways, a better opportunity for
making his calling and election sure. R4660:1
The majority of the consecrated have possessed only one talent. SM510:2;
R2764:5
To every man -- Every one in the Body of Christ has some talent, some
ability and opportunity for service. R4659:3, 3696:1, 1281:5
Some fear that they have no talents useful and needful to the service of
the body; and some, possessing several talents, use and seek to cultivate
the lowest of these rather than the highest. R733:4
His several ability -- "God hath set the members in the body." (1 Cor.
12:18) F295
Our varied conditions of mind, body and opportunity. Q536:3
"If there be first a willing mind it is accepted according to what a man
hath, and not according to what he hath not." (2 Cor. 8:12) R1973:4
Opportunities for the service of God along the lines of such abilities as
we possess--education, influence, money, good health, time, tact or
genius. R1972:6
The duty and privilege of every member of the body is to soberly and
honestly judge of his abilities, neither in pride overrating them, nor in
false humility underrating them. R733:4
Some in one service and some in another. F295
Some who are not platform speakers are excellent otherwise, "apt to
teach," and should be appreciated and used in Bible class talks. R1848:2
We, today, have special opportunities and privileges for ministering the
truth to others. Our responsibility is correspondingly large, and our
faith, love and zeal should be correspondingly shown. R2141:6
Communism is not the Lord's arrangement. D480
Matthew 25:16
The five talents -- Seeking to use every one of these as fully, as

thoroughly and as constantly as possible. R2764:6
And traded -- Used them in preaching, teaching, etc. R4693:3
Possessions or personal qualifications are to be released from the service
of worldly ambition, not for aimless inactivity, but to be utilized in an
opposite direction, in the service of God. R1281:4
Left free to exercise his best abilities. So, too, we are not specially
hampered by directions as to how we shall use our consecrated talents and
opportunities. R3870:4
It is a steward's place to seek and find places where he can dispose of
the talents and moneys consecrated to the Lord, to find best advantage, as
his sanctified judgment, under the guidance of the Lord's Word, may
dictate. R855:4
It is a part of our privilege and duty to study how we may best invest our
talents in order to secure the largest results; just as necessary in
investing for the Lord as in investing money for financial profit. R935:2*
With the same -- With all his talents, not part of them. As a rule,
people are either hot or cold in spiritual things. R2765:5
Some with five talents may use three faithfully and bury the other two in
business, but we question the probability of this happening. R2765:4
Made them other five -- He expected no more than they were severally
able to accomplish, rightly expecting larger returns from the one who had
five talents than from those who had one or two talents. R3696:1, 1281:5
Five-talent people amongst the Lord's servants are not to measure
themselves with others and to say, I have done enough. R2764:5
The servant who has five talents and uses them faithfully, and doubles
them, accomplishes a greater work than the servant who, having one talent,
uses it faithfully and doubles it. R2729:1
But proportionately as many of the two-talented and five-talented dig in
the earth and hide their talents as those who possess only one. R2765:1
Matthew 25:17
Gained other two -- While this parable should be a check on the

five-talented to not be slothful, it is an encouragement to the
two-talented, showing that the Lord will not expect as much from them.
R2764:6
Matthew 25:18
That had received one -- Not that one-talented people are more likely to
neglect and misuse the talents, but to show the responsibility to those
who have least that they, too, must be faithful. R2764:6
In the earth -- The opportunities and abilities consecrated to the Lord
are being buried in earthly interests, earthly affairs. SM512:2
In the service of self and mammon. R1973:5
Or in a billiard parlor, or in business, or in pride and show. R1942:5
Burying the talents in business, pleasure or sloth; thus showing lack of
love and appreciation, and consequently unworthiness of the Kingdom. F419
Are your money or business talents largely swallowed up in a
superabundance of the good things of this life for either self or family?
R1282:2
And hid -- Perhaps under cares and responsibilities. R4693:3
By wasting consecrated time upon science, philosophy, music or art; or
upon business, politics or pleasure; or in pampering pride or appetite.
R1282:5
Had the servant with the one talent been as faithful as the others, he
would have received the very same commendation. R1281:5
Matthew 25:19
After a long time -- In the end of the Gospel age, at the Lord's second
advent. SM511:2; F419; R5386:1, 4693:3, 4659:3
They were not to expect him to return in a very few days, a few months or
a few years. R2765:1
It was doubtless best every way that the exact time for the ending of the
Gospel age and the beginning of the Millennial age not be made known until
the time of the reckoning. R3870:6
The lord -- We are not to be judged by human judgment, but by him who
called us and drew us to himself. CR132:4
Of those servants -- Christendom: social and ecclesiastical. D599
The Church. Q313:2
Cometh -- At our Lord's second advent. SM511:2
To take possession of his Kingdom. SM693:2
Manifestly prior to any outward manifestation of the King in his glory,
because the worthy ones are to share with the Master in his glorious
Reckoneth with them -- Even before his enemies are conquered. C133;
F419, 662
During the harvest period the Lord has been judging amongst his people.
R5566:4
His first work is with the Church: "Judgment must begin with the house of
God." (1 Pet. 4:17) SM511:2; R5566:4, 3870:2, 1973:1; C133; D599; F419,
662; Q91:4
We, the Church, "must all appear before the judgment seat [tribunal] of
Christ." (2 Cor. 5:10) F418
He will judge us according to the spirit, our minds, our intentions, our
efforts. CR132:4
This period of reckoning began in 1878 with the raising of the sleeping
saints, and still continues. R3871:1, 2765:3
The reckoning was to begin with those servants who had fallen asleep.
R2765:2
In the "harvest" or reckoning time. R1078:3
As individuals, and not by groups or classes. R1973:1
This work of judging the servants is totally distinct from the judging of
the world. R2765:3
There is no intimation that the disciples would die and go to their Lord
to be reckoned with and rewarded. R2765:2
God, who is no respecter of persons, requires faithfulness on the part of
female as well as male stewards in the use of all their talents. R1549:4,
1105:5*
Matthew 25:20
I have gained -- Not all who have five talents use them wisely and
effectively. R3871:1
Matthew 25:21
His lord said -- In the first resurrection. NS137:1

Unto him -- He who had been faithful with five talents was to have a
special commendation, while the other faithful ones, who had a lesser
number of talents, were to be dealt with proportionately. F725
Well done -- The verdict if you overcome. R5108:6, 2461:3
Approval suggests the thought of having measured up to some standard.
Here, the standard is the Word, the standard of the Lord's own character,
which is right and true and good. R4242:1*
Let each keep patiently and perseveringly on in the way of self-denial
until his course is finished. R2474:6
Faithful servant -- Those who at heart are overcomers. CR132:4; SM512:1
Hast been faithful -- Gladly spent themselves zealously in the service
of the Lord; faithful unto death. R5492:6, 5914:4
In proportion as one confesses his faith, that same faith grows, and the
blessings and privileges connected with it grow. R3768:6
In no case have we seen one drift from the truth into the snares of these
perilous times who was very active and fully enlisted in the Lord's work.
R1282:5
Over a few things -- The Lord's method is to advance only him whose
zeal, faithfulness and patient perseverance in well doing has shown itself
in little things. F296; SM284:2
Faithful to the covenant of self-sacrifice. NS327:3
Not very many; it is all trifling from God's standpoint, but he looks at
the spirit. CR395:5, 309:4, 300:4; Q533:2
Our talents and opportunities of the present time are few and small.
HG658:5
There is plenty of room at the bottom of the ladder of honor. F296
You have used the favorable opportunities which showed the intentions of
your heart. CR300:5
Make thee ruler -- Sharing the great honor with the Master of ruling the
world. Q533:2; CR292:3, 255:1
This giving of the dominion to his faithful servants signified their
sharing with him in his kingdom at the time of its establishment at his
second coming. HG439:2; NS678:2
His assistants in the great Millennial work of teaching and helping the
world in their great fight. NS618:5
With the end of the Millennium, the time for all such ruling will be at an
end; hence the parable is a strong lesson in support of the pre-Millennial
coming of our Lord. R2765:6
Ruler over what? Some say everything is to be destroyed. Not so! The world
will be to rule over, to be brought into harmony with God. HG147:2
Over many things -- Faithfulness in using the few talents of the present
will bring great opportunities for blessing the world in the next age.
PD59/70; OV190:2; Q533:2; CR292:3, 254:6; R3871:2
The service of the present life is but an insignificant one in comparison
to the glorious service which awaits the Lord's faithful people in the
future. R4693:6
How abundantly the Lord rewards all of our little efforts in the service
of truth and righteousness, whatever our talents, few or many. R3871:2
Such noble characters as Peter, Paul, John and others, zealous in the
service of the Lord, will have the highest rewards. R5492:6
Enter thou into -- Each one, as soon as examined, is caused to "enter
into the joys of his Lord," before he receives the dominion promised. C133
The joy of thy Lord -- A clear view of the coming Kingdom and glory and
the great work of the Millennial day. C134
The Kingdom joys. R5396:6
The first resurrection change. CR254:6; R3871:2, 3788:6
A share in his favor. R3871:2
Not merely enter into joys, but shall share the joys of his Lord. R795:6
The throne of his glory. NS180:1
The joys of the Kingdom and its work of blessing and uplifting the lost
race in Adam. NS343:4
The reward was the same in each case, meaning that the cup of joy to each
will be full. R2765:5
Matthew 25:23
Well done -- All faithful ones will receive a blessing; nevertheless,

those who have been most earnest, most zealous, most devoted, will be the
nearer to the Master in his throne. NS608:5
Some have less ability and some more, but the Lord's approval will be in
proportion as we have endeavored to accomplish his will. SM257:1
Faithful servant -- This was said of both the five-talented and the
two-talented. CR254:5; R3871:2; Q500:4
Over a few things -- Only a few things are committed to any of us, and
the Lord is seeking merely to note our disposition and to reward us
accordingly. CR17:5
From the Lord's standpoint, all of the affairs of this present life are
little in comparison with the future things. R2494:1
General faithfulness to principle, even in small things, gives evidence of
the disposition and character which may be entrusted with the great
responsibilities of the Kingdom. R2494:1
Make thee ruler -- Everyone who is faithful would get the same general
reward. Q536:3
Joy of thy Lord -- These have an equally good opportunity of entering
into the joys of the Lord as they that had five or ten talents. R2765:6
Matthew 25:24
Received the one -- Having become a consecrated believer in the Lord, he

had received a talent of privilege or opportunity in the Master's service
which he neglected to use. SM508:T
Not only the great talents, large abilities, opportunities or means, are
noted by the Lord, but also the small things are never overlooked by him.
R2157:5
Applicable to the larger proportion of his people, for not many wise,
learned, rich or noble according to the course of this world, but rather
the poor, rich in faith, hath God chosen. (1 Cor. 1:26-28) SM511:1
It is possible for the person having the one talent to be faithful, and
equally possible for those having two or more talents to be unfaithful.
SM510:2
I knew thee -- Cause of failure--presumptuousness. R4079:5*
Thou art an hard man -- The failure of the wicked servant was due to his
lack of love. R2766:1
Those who know God and his plan of the ages cannot be afraid of the Lord,
nor believe him unjust. R21:5*
His heart was filled with fear instead of love for the Lord; for he
thought of his Lord as unjust, hard, unmerciful, unloving, exacting. He
had a bad theology. SM512:2; R633:3*
Many, who having taken upon themselves the vows of consecration and
subsequently failing to perform them, are disposed to blame the Lord
rather than blame themselves. R2766:1
Matthew 25:25
I was afraid -- One difficulty with many of us in the past has been fear
of the Master. R4694:1
Hid thy talent -- Representing those who violate their consecration vow,
to do and serve, to use, to spend and be spent in the Master's service.
R3871:3
If one fails to use his opportunities and privileges, they will be given
to another. Q537:1
Would you recommend a man of means to dispose of his business and go
colporteuring, living on his interest, or perhaps on his principal? Why
not? R3148:5
In the earth -- A talent which is unused is soon buried by the tide of
life. R3871:5
Buried under a weight of worldly cares or encumbrances which might be
avoided or set aside; or under worldly ambitions for either self or
family. R3696:6, 1282:5
In banks, store-houses and investment securities, to enrich and cultivate
the spirit of pride in friends or children and for them to quarrel over
after you are dead. R3696:3, 3148:5, 1282:2
That is thine -- He evidently wanted to be considered a servant still,
and probably thought he was worthy of commendation and reward for not
perverting the Lord's money to other uses. R1281:6
Not wicked, simply an idler; willing to draw a servant's approval and
compensation, but lacking any real, active interest in his master's
business. R3696:2, 1281:3
Strictly honest; he had not wasted his talent in ministering to the flesh
or riotous living of any kind. He had kept it safe. R3871:3, 3696:2
While faithful in that he did not squander it or repudiate his Master, he
did not have the higher faithfulness of earnest, self-sacrificing zeal in
the Master's cause. R3871:4
Matthew 25:26
Wicked and slothful -- As a faithless, slothful servant, he was really a

covenant-breaker, and therefore wicked. R1281:6
It is required of stewards that they be found faithful. (1 Cor. 4:1,2)
R819:5
If the one-talented man, misusing his, was disapproved, it goes without
saying that the two- or five-talented would be even more reprehensible in
the sight of the Lord. R3871:2
A man's condemnation corresponds with his misuse of his talents. R3074:4
Matthew 25:27
Thou oughtest therefore -- The very object of the parable is to arouse

us to a sense of our shortcomings and recover us from our lethargy by
reminding us of our responsibilities. R1282:1
Diligence in seeking and finding ways and means to dispose of our
consecrated talents to God's glory and to the advancement of the truth is
essential to faithful stewardship; any other course is a violation of
covenant. R819:5
To have put my money -- Some get the mistaken idea that a steward is not
expected to spend that committed to his care unless circumstances demand
it of him. R819:5
At my coming -- Evidently a master would not expect a settlement until
he had come, not while on the journey coming. We should therefore
translate the Greek erkomai as "on my arrival." R144:1
Mine own with usury -- Interest on a business loan is quite proper.
F568; R3871:6 The words interest and usury once had the same meaning; now
interest is a just payment and usury is an unjust and extortionate charge.
R3871:6
Matthew 25:28
Take therefore -- These gifts are not inalienable; by neglect to use

them, or by their abuse, they may be lost. If we fail to use, or fail to
use for the Lord's glory, or use for self-glory, our place can readily be
filled by another. R733:6
The talent from him -- Implies that he can have neither part nor lot in
the Kingdom. SM513:3
He deserved to be punished because he did not use that which his Lord had
entrusted to him. R5386:2
The loss of the opportunity and privilege of service as a co-laborer with
the Lord. SM513:3
Not because he never was a real servant; but because, being really a
servant, he proved unfaithful. R1698:5
There is nothing in this parable to indicate eternal torment for this
class of unfaithful servants. SM513:2; R5386:2, 2766:1
Give it unto him -- Their neglected opportunities for more abundant
service will go as a reward to those who are already earnest and active.
R1282:3
Illustrated in St. Paul's experience; if there was any brother who was
short in any way, that was another opportunity for Paul to come in and do
that much more. Q537:1
Matthew 25:29
That hath -- Through use of his talents. R5419:3, 3696:5, 1282:2

Shall be given -- Following this just principle, the Logos, who had
always proved faithful in all things, was offered the headship of the new
creation. F64, 65
Hath not -- Hath not increased. Q843:2
From neglect of his talents. R5419:3, 3696:5, 1282:2
Shall be taken -- The opportunity will be taken from him. He will have
it no more; neither will he have any share in the reward given to the
overcomers. R2766:4
That which he hath -- Losing the Lord's approval and the light they once
enjoyed. Q843:2
Matthew 25:30
Cast ye -- Not a case of being liable to get into outer darkness, into
error; it is a case of must. The Master's orders are peremptory and
decisive. R3696:6, 1282:5
Not because of murder, theft or blasphemy; not through immoralities; but
because of neglected opportunities of service. SM508:T
None can be of the anointed body except they be preachers to the extent of
their ability and talent. R812:3*
Unprofitable servant -- The Great Company class. R3871:4, 4694:1
The Lord does not deny that he is a servant, nor does he charge him with
being an enemy. R4078:5, 4693:6; SM507:3
A Christian, not a worldling, stranger, alien, foreigner to the divine
promises. SM507:4
The Lord will have a blessing for the unfaithful servant. He was a servant
all the time. He did not lose it. But he did not use it properly. R4693:6
Into outer darkness -- The darkness common to, and resting upon, the
whole world of mankind; not flaming fire of eternal torment. R2766:1,4,
4872:5, 4398:6, 3033:5
Not death. SM507:2
It is possible to lose what light, privilege and appreciation of spiritual
matters had been previously enjoyed. SM514:1; R4398:6, 2766:4
Emphasizing the responsibility of even those with the smallest natural
ability, whose consecrated powers are the most insignificant. R3871:1
The darkness of error and ignorance concerning God's plans and ways
envelops the world in general. R1282:3
Flames of fire would surely make the place light. R2766:1; SM507:3
In contrast with the inner light of the holy place of favor and communion
and instruction from God, symbolized in the Tabernacle. R3696:5, 1282:3
There shall be -- In the time of trouble with which this age will close.
R3871:3
Weeping -- Grief is indeed implied, but not one word about an eternity
of grief and pain. HG303:2
Gnashing of teeth -- Sorrow, disappointment and chagrin in every sense.
R3871:3, 4694:1; CR253:3
In the great time of trouble with which this age will close. R4694:1,
4473:2, 3871:3, 2766:4; SM514:1
They shall "come up out of great tribulation, having washed their robes
and made them white in the blood of the Lamb." (Rev. 7:14) R3871:4
Matthew 25:31
When -- The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats is the only one of Jesus'
parables which furnishes a clear outline of the Millennial age. R769:6
This parable tells of the Kingdom from another standpoint, explaining the
work of the Kingdom after it has been set up. R4694:3
The Son of man -- Christ, the Seed of Adam through Eve, in the same
sense that he was the seed of David; while his life proceeded forth from
God. E150, 152
A title of high honor, showing his obedience unto death, by which he
secured the title to all his prospective honor and glory. E151
Not in the sense of simply being a man, but the son of the man David, with
whom Jehovah had made an everlasting covenant--that the throne of Israel
should belong to him and his seed forever. R944:1*
Come in his glory -- Descriptive of Messiah's Kingdom following his
parousia and his epiphania. R5530:3, 4784:6, 4694:3; OV165:3; PD63/73
Not another coming, but another step or development during the same coming
or presence. R2303:6
The Savior has not yet appeared in his glory. R4784:6; OV165:4
Applies not to this age, but the coming age of Messiah's reign. R4694:3,
4986:2, 4784:6; OV165:3
Not yet. He is waiting for the development of the Church, his saintly
Bride class, which is to sit with him in his throne and share his glory.
OV165:4; NS179:2
The first event of the second advent is not the manifestation of glory,
but the thief-like gathering of the Church, unknown to the world. R2303:3
The elect Church shall share his throne and glory. E479; F419; OV165:4;
R4694:3; HG149:3
"Then shall ye also appear with him in glory." (Col. 3:4) R4784:6, 4694:3,
2303:6; SM224:2
"The woman is the glory of the man" (1 Cor. 11:7); hence, the Church is
the glory of Christ. R2303:6
And have established his Kingdom, his Church, in power and great glory.
R704:4
In the glory of the Father. NS556:6
Conclusive proof that the world's judgment is not yet in progress. Q795:T
This parable applies entirely to the world, the nations. R5530:3,2, 2606:2
Angels with him -- Jesus with the Church. R4986:2
The saints, his holy messengers. "The Lord cometh with ten thousand of his
saints." (Jude 14) C302; R4644:4
"When Christ who is our life shall appear, then shall ye [the Church, the
sheep of the present age] also appear with him in glory." (Col. 3:4)
R4784:6, 4694:3, 4693:1, 2303:6
The salvation of the Church will be finished before the salvation of the
world will begin. R4694:3
Then -- In the Millennial age. R4644:4, 5530:3, 2606:2; E479; OV42:1
After the Church is completed and sits with Christ in his throne. R5406:3,
654:4; E479
Here begins the world's probation, the world's great judgment day, a
thousand years. R2606:4
Sit upon the throne -- This parable corresponds exactly to the picture
of Rev. 20:11, "I saw a great white throne and him that sat on it."
OV42:1; A345; R5530:5; CR324:3
All the faithful shall sit with him in this very throne. R5530:6, 2606:3,
486:6*; OV42:3
"To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne." (Rev.
3:21) R2606:3, 5530:6
Of justice, mercy and love. R5530:5
The Lord's consecrated people recognize him as their king; but he is not
yet the king of the world, "King of kings and Lord of lords." (Rev. 19:16)
HG663:5
Christ will not reign over his glorified Church, nor they reign over each
other; but the Church complete will reign over all nations, dead and
living. HG336:5; NS179:6
A trial can in no case proceed until the judge is on the bench and the
court is in session at the appointed time. A345
Matthew 25:32
Before him -- During the thousand years, the world's judgment. SM225:T;
R5530:3; NS678:3
After the time of trouble. R2606:2, 654:4
The world will be before the judgment-seat of Christ in the sense that the
Church is now on judgment or on trial. HG223:5
Under his observation. HG149:3
If Adam was judged by a trial of his will without God's interference, so
the judgment of the whole race will be, similarly, a judgment or trial of
their wills without God's interference. R1221:6
Gathered all nations -- Including those now asleep in death. F19;
PD63/73; R5530:6
First the living nations, then the dead. R2606:3, 654:3; NS182:1
Not all the 20 billion of the dead in one 24-hour day. NS179:3
Not in a 24-hour day, but in a 1000-year day. (2 Pet. 3:8) HG273:2; NS180:1
Not including the Church, already judged. F418; SM224:2; R5530:3,5
The gathering of the world will be the result of knowledge. The time of
trouble will lead to great enlightenment. R5530:6
After the time of trouble, when the nations shall have been subdued, Satan
bound (Rev. 20:1,2) and the authority of Christ's Kingdom established.
R2606:3
The gathering to judgment will be a gradual one, not all at the same
moment, not all on the same day, not all in the same year. NS182:1
Not to receive an immediate sentence, but to receive a fair and impartial
individual trial. (Ezek. 18:2-4,19,20) R2606:3, 654:4
Sometimes called Gentiles, meaning those not in covenant relationship with
God. SM224:3
As the Jews thought of themselves as God's nation and all others as
heathens, so with spiritual Israel, they are the holy nation and all the
remainder of mankind can be properly described as "the nations," "the
Gentiles." R5530:3
Shall separate them -- This separating and judging will occupy the
entire Millennial age. E479; R5406:4, 4644:4, 3528:4, 2736:6, 2606:4,
1086:4, 655:1; NS182:2
The whole world will be granted the opportunity of making their choice as
to whether they will be sheep or goats. R5694:1, 5530:6; SM225:T,1; PD63/73
The final, complete separation, taking place in the harvest of the
Millennial age. D644
All are brought to a clear knowledge of the truth for the purpose of
testing them, that those who choose the law of God, Love, may be clearly
manifested and separated from those who choose ungodliness, selfishness.
R1235:4
God's truth, as a two-edged sword, will be quietly, but surely as now,
doing the separating work. R269:4
One from another -- It is an individual separation. SM225:T; R5531:2
Sheep from the goats -- The judge will make manifest to all ultimately
the heart difference of the two classes. R5531:2,3, 5406:5
The loving, sympathetic characters from those wayward and unsubmissive.
R4694:6 Inferring that a majority will obtain everlasting life, as sheep
are more numerous than goats. R1227:6, 1057:4; Q639:3
Those sheep and goats will not include the Church. R4694:3
The final test must be applied in the end of the thousand years, when
Christ has completed the work of restitution. R1234:1
Outwardly they will have much the same appearance and demeanor, except the
Judge will see the real heart-difference between the two classes. R5531:2
The harvest of the Jewish age was likened to the separation of wheat from
chaff; the harvest of this age to the separation of wheat from tares; and
the harvest of the Millennial age to the separation of sheep from goats.
R2606:2, 654:3, 267:6, 34:2*; D644
Matthew 25:33
Shall set the sheep -- Those who will have the Lord's spirit. SM227:3
Who are meek, teachable, willing to be led in the pastures of truth.
R2606:4, 2304:3
Such as receive instruction and come into accord with Messiah. OV165:4
Co-laborers with God in the work for which Christ died. R5531:6
"Other sheep have I which are not of this fold; them also I must bring."
(John 10:16) NS181:5; R2606:6
On his right hand -- Place of favor. R4986:2, 5046:5, 2606:4; OV165:4;
SM225:1
But the goats -- With the goat character of waywardness and
unsubmissiveness. R4694:6
The wayward, those not developing the graces of character under
instruction; those not interested in accomplishing the work for which
Christ died. OV165:4; R5531:6, 2304:3; PD63/73
Self-willed, stubborn, climbing to places of prominence, feeding on
miserable refuse. R2606:4
Those found unworthy of everlasting life. R5973:2, 4785:1
Outwardly having much the same appearance as the sheep. R5531:2
On the left -- Place of disfavor. R4986:2, 4785:4, 2606:5; OV165:4;
SM225:1; PD63/73
As subjects of condemnation. R2606:4
Both classes will have been on trial for a thousand years, receiving
blessings from the Kingdom. R5531:2, 4694:3
These two classes will not be aware that they are going to the right or to
the left until the conclusion of the trial. SM225:1
Not for Adam's sin, nor for the sins of their own weakness and ignorance
while yet blind and deaf. NS181:2
We have no assurance that the sheep will outnumber the goats. In Palestine
the numbers are about equal. R1984:6, 5694:1
Matthew 25:34
Then shall -- At the end of the Millennial age. R5973:2, 2606:6

The decision of some individual cases will be reached long before the end
of the age (Isa. 65:20), but in each age there is a harvest or general
separating time at the end of the age. R2606:3
By the close of the Millennium, two classes will have been completely
separated; those in harmony with the letter and spirit of God's law, and
those out of harmony with it. A144; R2606:5; HG149:3, 223:6; PD63/73
All will be subjected to a final test of loyalty to God after the thousand
years. R2051:5
The two classes will not be aware they are going to the right or to the
left. Not until the conclusion of the trial do they find out where they
stand. SM225:1
On his right hand -- Those who, during the Millennial age, will have
attained the position of favor by harmony and obedience. A305
The reverse order of Rev. 20:7-10 which seems to indicate that the goat
class will be dealt with first. R2304:4
Who have been perfected through the processes of the restitution. R2304:4
Come ye -- You who are about to enter into everlasting life. A144; D644;
OV165:4
Those in harmony with God. Q446:2
But only those who pass the test of the "little season" when Satan is
loosed (Rev. 20:3,7-9) will be worthy of continued life. R1234:1,2
Those who will have developed the God-like character. R5531:3
All who develop the spirit of obedience. R4785:1
Blessed of my Father -- Approved ones. F50
The kind that my Father is pleased to bless and to grant everlasting life!
R5531:3
Perfect works only will be rewarded. R4695:1
Whom my Father designs thus to bless. A305
Enter fully into the blessings of the second life. R892:6
Inherit the kingdom -- The World-Republic, in which every man will be a
king. F50; R5636:6, 2606:6, 2304:5, 655:3
The kingdom of earth. R1057:1, 852:4
"Have dominion over the earth." (Gen. 1:28) R2606:6
The dominion of the renewed earth will be handed over to the rule of its
redeemed and restored rulers, humanity. R2304:5
These will be invited to become the kings of earth under divine
supervision, even as was Adam, in his original perfection, crowned with
glory and honor and set over the earthly creation. (Psa. 8:3-5) R4694:6,
3572:2
Be installed as the subordinate rulers of the earth for future ages.
R2606:6
"They shall reign forever and ever." (Rev. 22:5) R3572:1
The kingdom of earth is sure to man after he has learned that the heavens
do rule. (Dan. 4:17-26) R196:4
The dominion now exercised by Satan, who uses fallen man as his tool.
R860:5
Even the obedient of mankind will not be fit to be entrusted with the
kingdom of the world until absolute perfection shall have been reached.
NS182:5
We may reasonably suppose that even perfect man will require some form of
government. R2304:4
Not a rule independent of divine law and supremacy. God intends man to
rule under, or in harmony with, his supreme law. R2607:5
They are not invited to inherit the kingdom prepared for us, the heavenly
kingdom; but they shall inherit the earth, the purchased possession.
R2833:5, 2606:6, 2304:5, 269:4; OV42:2
Not the same kingdom as the Messianic kingdom; but the kingdom which God
gave to Adam, which Adam lost and Christ redeemed. R5531:3, 4695:1,
2833:5, 2606:6, 860:5; SM229:5; NS182:3, 482:5
Not a dominion of some of the race over others, but a joint dominion,
every man a king, with equal rights and privileges in appropriating and
enjoying every earthly good. R2606:6, 655:2
By the end of the Millennial Age, the kingdom will be a grand republic,
whose stability will be assured by the perfection of every member; whereas
the Millennial Kingdom over which the saints shall reign will be a
theocracy which will rule the world without regard to the subjects'
consent or approval. R655:3
Theirs will be a dominion under the whole heaven, and not a heavenly
dominion. It will be restitution to perfection. HG223:6
Eden restored, the kingdom which was prepared for man from the foundation
of the race. NS482:5
When Christ restores all things, man and earth, to the original design of
the Father, illustrated in Adam and his dominion. (Gen. 1:28) R860:6
Restored to earthly likeness lost by Adam, the image of God in clay, "very
good" and very grand. (Gen. 1:31) R852:4
Restitution will not be quite complete until the great mass of mankind is
reinvested with the dominion of earth as possessed by Adam before sin
entered. R655:2
The eternal conditions beyond the Millennial age. R3531:1
When Christ delivers up the dominion of earth to the Father, he will do so
by delivering it up to mankind, the Father's representatives, who were
designed from the first to have this honor. A305; F50; R5973:2, 5531:3;
SM229:1; OV42:2
The mediatorial Millennial kingdom of Christ having accomplished its
purpose and being withdrawn, the dominion will be handed over to humanity.
R2304:5
With this transfer of the earthly control to the perfect man of that time,
Christ's millennial or mediatorial kingdom will end. NS182:5
Man's dominion under God is illustrated well by the government of this
country--each state having dominion over its own territory, but all
subject to the government of the United States. R196:1
Prepared for you -- The place for man, the earth. R4966:2
The earthly kingdom or dominion was intended and prepared for human,
earthly beings. R269:4
When God laid the foundation of the earth and planned its human
habitation, it was his design to give it to you. R5531:3
And, though forfeited by man on account of disobedience, it will be
restored, as taught by all God's holy prophets. (Acts 3:21) R632:5*
Six thousand years under the dominion of evil, to learn its consequences,
in contrast with the seventh-thousand year period under the reign of
Christ. R2607:1, 655:2
For the perfected and worthy ones at the close of the Millennium. R2607:1
The blessings intended for them. R5406:5
From the foundation -- Not "before the foundation," as in the case of
the Church. A305; R2607:1, 2304:5; SM229:1
Of the world -- Mundane creation. F50
The earth having been made to be the everlasting home and kingdom of
perfect men. R2607:1
As expressed to Father Adam: "Have dominion over the earth." (Gen. 1:28)
R2606:6
From Genesis to Malachi, every promise to the natural man is earthly.
R4966:2
Matthew 25:35
I was -- The Redeemer counts redeemed mankind as representing himself.

R5532:1
An hungred -- The world is starved now, for lack of spiritual food.
R5531:5
There will be abundant opportunity for mutual helpfulness, sympathy,
instruction and encouragement. R2607:4
This sheep class will manifest God's character of love to each other in
the time of sorest need. R2606:5
All will awaken from the tomb without possessions of any kind. R2607:2,
655:4
Ye gave -- All in harmony will have the privilege of helping others.
R5531:5
Illustrated in the case of Lazarus; Jesus only awakened him from death.
His rejoicing friends were left to loose him from his grave clothes and
clothe and feed him. R2607:2, 655:4
Good works indicative of sympathy, love, compassion. R2304:6
In that time, knowledge will have practically supplanted faith; hence,
faith will have no special rewards, but works will have the rewards.
R4694:6
The Millennial location of the parable is fixed by the rule or judgment
prescribed, works. The judgment of the Church during the Gospel age is not
works, but faith. R700:3; HG106:5
Works were the basis of the Law Covenant. Obedience, works, is to be the
basis of the antitypical covenant, the "New." R700:6
No great deeds are assigned for this honor and favor. Restored mankind
will have simply come into harmony with God's law, Love. R195:6
Love and its fruit, good works, will be the ground upon which the sheep of
that age will be rewarded. R701:1
We would not desire to have one get here and find that there was no place
for him to eat, sleep or live; so we would make provision for him. SM227:1
Those who have the spirit of God, of love, will be glad to carry the
message of reconciliation to all humanity--to apply the eye-salve to the
blind, to unstop the ears of the deaf, and help the sin-sick back into
As a lesson for the Church, the Lord does not say that we must entirely
transform our flesh; but he does say that we must transform our mind,
will. SM229:3
Matthew 25:36
Clothed me -- Helped them to cover their nakedness with the merit of

Christ. R5531:5
The sheep class will be feeding, clothing and helping those whom they have
gotten out of the prison-house of death. SM227:3
I was sick -- Sin-sick, neither actually dead nor actually perfect.
R5531:5, 2607:4, 655:6
I was in prison -- Prison-house of death, where the majority of mankind
are. R5531:6; SM225:3
Prayers will go out continually for those in this prison. SM227:3
Under watch and ward until made physically, mentally and morally perfect.
R655:5, 2607:4
Ye came unto me -- Praying for and preparing for those who are in the
great prison-house of death. R5531:6
Our thought is that man will come back in answer to prayer, very much the
same as did Lazarus. SM226:2
Matthew 25:37
When saw we thee -- Surprised at what the King declared to be the basis
of his judgment. R5531:4
Not realizing that they were developing a noble, Christlike character.
SM228:2
These two classes will not be aware that they are going to the right or to
the left until the conclusion of the trial. SM225:1
Matthew 25:38
When saw we thee -- You did not know it, but I was watching you. SM228:3
Matthew 25:40
Ye have done -- Helped the sin-sick back into harmony with God. R5531:5
Made preparation to assist men when they would come back to life. SM227:2
The judgment of the world in the future age will be very similar to the
judgment of the Church in this age, so far as matters of judgment are
concerned. NS181:4
With us in this age the test is faith; but with them, the test will be
works. R486:6*
The least of these -- Since mankind will not all be raised at once but
in separate ranks or orders (1 Cor. 15:23) during the thousand years, each
new rank will find an army of helpers who will have preceded them. R655:5
My brethren -- Those who will need assistance. R5531:5
Human sons of God. R2607:2
The body of Christ. R2744:4, 2448:5, 412:1
Children of God, though they will be of the human nature, while he is of
the divine. All of God's sons, whether on the human, angelic or divine
plane, are brethren. R2606:5, 2607:2, 655:4, 195:3 They will be brethren
to all who are the Lord's on any plane of existence--to the Church, and
also to all the angelic hosts. R3528:4
Have done it unto me -- Whoever serves any whom the Lord classes as his
brethren is really serving him. R5371:5, 5180:5
Does not now apply to the world, but it does apply to the Church. R5819:1
All through the period of their sufferings, the Church could be comforted
with the assurance that when they suffered, he, the sympathizing friend,
suffered with them. R92:5
Would not true loyalty and devotion count the injury or the blessing done
to a friend as done unto us? R1588:6
Matthew 25:41
Then shall he -- Even though all the while they have been receiving the
blessings of the Millennial kingdom and outwardly rendering obedience to
its laws, not until the conclusion of the Millennium will the decision of
the Judge be manifested. R5531:3
On the left hand -- Those who have the goat-like disposition of
wilfulness remaining after enjoying the "times of restitution." R2304:4,
5925:4
Those who fail to develop the characteristics of the Lord's sheep:
gentleness, meekness, love. R4785:1, 4694:6
Depart from me -- At heart you have not come into harmony with God. He
cannot recognize you as his sheep. R5531:3
His guarantee is that sin and sinners and those who sympathize with evil
shall not go beyond the Millennium to endanger the happiness, peace and
blessings of the great eternity beyond. D644
Ye cursed -- Condemned. NS183:2
Condemned as unfit vessels for the glory and honor of life. R2607:5
Doomed ones. R5531:3
Signifies the very opposite of blessing, a curse in the usual sense of the
English. Webster defines it: Deserving a curse, execrable, hateful,
detestable, abominable. R701:5
Counted enemies against God and against the law of the empire, and no
longer coerced, but destroyed. R1057:2
Redeemed by Christ from Adamic curse once; but now condemned or cursed, as
worthy of the second death, by the one who redeemed them from the first
curse. R1040:3
Some, after being fully enlightened in the Millennial age, will reject the
favor in the way it is offered. We believe the number will be small. R883:4
Not a member of the race shall be "cut off" whom it is possible to
recover; but not one member which divine wisdom finds impossible to renew
shall remain to spread his baneful, poisonous influence to others. R872:2
Failing the test of the "little season" (Rev. 20:3,7-9), they are cursed a
second time, having previously been released from the Adamic curse.
R893:3,5
Everlasting fire -- The lake of fire, the second death, everlasting
destruction, symbolized by Gehenna. E30, 480; R5973:2, 5531:4, 4694:6,
2607:5,6, 2304:6, 2051:5, 1180:1, 1040:3; OV165:4, 166:3; PD63/73
Fire is a symbol of destruction, not preservation. CR293:1; R5532:4,
4694:6, 4644:5, 1086:4, 1040:1, 926:1; OV166:1; SM230:3; NS183:3
We must infer that the fire here is as symbolic as the goats which go into
it. R1086:4, 1040:1, 926:1, 487:1*; OV42:4, 166:1; NS183:3
The eternal fire is the fire of God's jealousy or anger, destroying
everything antagonistic to his righteousness. (Zeph. 1:18; 3:8) R5532:4;
SM231:T
They "shall be destroyed from among the people." (Acts 3:23) OV166:T
Illustrated by the fires of the Valley of Hinnom in which the garbage of
Jerusalem was destroyed. PD63/73; R2051:5
An everlasting fire is one not quenched, one which burns until it shall
have accomplished its purpose of complete destruction. OV42:4
Everlasting death, a death that will last through all eternity. R4785:4
A lasting or perpetual destruction, extinction. R1086:4, 1040:3
Matter is indestructible, but man is more than a body. The intelligent
will, thought, constitutes a human soul, and the soul can be destroyed.
OV166:2
Death everlasting, not life in torment everlasting. R926:1
God, under the Law, never permitted Israel to torture any creature; but he
frequently commanded dead carcasses to be burned with fire as a symbol of
utter destruction. R701:2
Everlasting, because there will be no further provisions made for your
redemption or your resurrection from the second death. R5531:4, 5406:5,
4807:1, 4785:4, 926:1, 655:6; A144
"Fire will come from God out of heaven and consume them." (Rev. 20:9)
R1040:4
Prepared -- To cut off the wilfully wicked, and them only, was God's
plan from the beginning. R697:4
The fate already determined for them. R4695:1, 3084:1
Stated in so many words in 1 John 3:8 and Heb. 2:14. R701:3
For the devil -- Whose very existence is now denied by many. F609;
R3165:6
"That he might destroy him that hath the power of death, that is, the
devil." (Heb. 2:14) F619; R2608:6, 2607:5
Satan has become inseparably connected with sin, and his destruction is
plainly declared in the Scriptures, as is also that of those who have so
imbibed his spirit as to make it impossible to renew them again to
repentance. R5896:2
In the end of the Millennial age, when good can no longer be served
through his permitted existence, Satan is to be totally and forever
destroyed. R725:3
And his angels -- All who follow his leading and his course. F619;
R1648:4
Those who pattern after his character and partake willingly of his spirit.
R5896:2, 5301:3, 1180:1; OV42:3; SM231:1
His messengers or servants. R2608:3, 2609:3, 4695:1
And for no others. R1040:3, 769:6, 701:4
Satan has some assistants, "the angels that kept not their first estate."
(Jude 6) SM231:T
All who do unrighteousness or have pleasure therein, spirits or men, are
reckoned on Satan's side. R697:4; HG329:5, 728:4
Those, who during the Millennial age will not become willing and obedient
servants of the Lord, are reckoned his adversaries, accomplices of Satan.
R701:4
Those of men affected similarly to Satan by knowledge and experience are
reckoned his messengers and co-workers, and share with him the final
destruction. R872:3
All who intelligently and willfully are co-workers with him in his
rebellion against divine love and justice. R2842:4, 891:4, 769:6
All who serve sin are his servants or messengers. R3084:2
The goat class, messengers of Satan, who love unrighteousness and, during
the Millennium, pass to the left hand of the great king and judge.
R4292:3, 2935:2, 2736:6, 1107:5; NS183:1
Called the servants, angels, of Satan and children of the devil (1 John
3:10) and such like names, because they pattern after his character and
partake willingly of his spirit. R1180:1; OV42:3
None will then be servants of Satan ignorantly or unwillingly. R1040:3
Not only the fallen angels now associated with Satan. R701:3; HG329:2
They will be destroyed with Satan as described in Rev. 20:9,10. R3433:3
Matthew 25:42
Ye gave me no meat -- They will not be forced to help the dead. That
work will be one of charity, of love. But, unless they attain the spirit
of love, they will not be fit for the kingdom, for God is love. SM230:2
Careless in respect to their vow, and merely enjoying the Millennial
blessings for themselves. R5531:5
Intimating the absence of good motives and tender, loving sentiments.
R2304:6
You have more or less of the selfish spirit which is the spirit of Satan.
R5532:4
Not murderers, thieves and liars in the present-day acceptance of these
terms, but those who lack evidence of the possession of the spirit of
love. R2304:6; NS183:1
Under Satanic delusion and the relaxed iron rule during the little season,
those who, at heart, are not loyal to God, and who thus far have been
controlled principally by the force and rigor of law, will manifest their
real disposition. R1234:2
Matthew 25:43
Sick, and in prison -- Imperfect and under ward. R2607:4, 2609:3
Matthew 25:44
When saw we thee -- Surprised at what the King declared to be the basis
of his judgment. R5531:4
Matthew 25:45
Ye did it not -- Your interest was not in the things of God, but
personal, selfish. R5532:1
You have failed utterly to appreciate the goodness of God and copy his
character. R5531:4
Failed to develop gentleness, meekness, love. R4785:1, 4695:1
Even in the Millennium, with fullest knowledge, some will not learn to
love righteousness. R1219:6
Their condemnation is because they lacked the spirit of love. R2606:5
God does not purpose that any who are selfish shall have everlasting life.
Selfishness came in as a result of sin. SM228:T
Matthew 25:46
And these -- Only the incorrigible. A291; R5537:6

The Bible intimates a considerable number of goats. R5925:5
Everlasting -- Greek, aionios, lasting. R2607:6, 1039:3*
Used sometimes to represent an unlimited or everlasting time. R701:4, 699:6
The word does not always mean never ending, but rather a space or epoch of
time upon which no limit has been placed. R719:4, 699:4
Continuous, that is, uninterrupted. R719:5, 487:1*
The punishment will be as lasting as the reward. Both will be everlasting.
R2607:6, 1298:4*, 1039:3*, 719:1*, 701:5, 699:5, 655:6, 345:3
Everlasting cutting off from life. E480, 30; R4785:4, 1344:4*
Not everlasting torture, but everlasting death. R4785:4; SM766:1,2, 230:1
Death from which there will be no release, no resurrection. R345:3;
HG334:6; OV42:4; NS557:1
The punishment, in this sense, will be different from the blight of death
which, for the past 6000 years, has rested upon the whole human family.
SM767:T
The first death can and will be destroyed, while the second everlastingly
blots out of existence and thus everlastingly punishes all who go into it.
R769:5; CR293:5
Punishment -- Greek, kolasin, cutting off, pruning or lopping off
(Diaglott footnote). R2608:1, 5694:2, 4695:4, 1298:4*, 1040:1,2, 367:4;
CR293:4; SM230:2
"Pruning, restraining, restraint." (Young's Analytical Concordance)
R2608:1, 1040:2, 367:4
Occurs in 1 John 4:18 where it is improperly rendered "torment." It should
read, "Fear hath restraint." Also found in various forms in Acts 4:21 and
2 Pet. 2:9. R2608:1, 1040:2
Liddell and Scott say it means "pruning." R367:4
According to the Greek lexicon, restraint; used in the expression, for
instance, "The charioteer restrains his fiery steeds." HG133:5
To restrain by cutting off. SM230:2; R2608:1
It may mean more or less of restraint. In this case it signifies complete
restraint, the restraint of death. NS183:6
Restraint, not pain; the everlasting restraining into which the wicked
will go is the second death. HG224:2
Everlasting cutting off from life, from the Lord, and from all hope of
life. CR293:4; PD63/73
If torment were meant, the Greek word basinos would have been used. R1086:5
It does not here state what the nature of the punishment will be. But it
is elsewhere stated that the "wages [punishment] of sin is death." (Rom.
6:23) R1026:4, 926:1, 769:6, 345:3; HG224:1
"Shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the
Lord and the glory of his power." (2 Thess. 1:9) R2608:2; NS183:4
Because of individual, willful sin. R5925:5
Death, the final sentence against sinners. R4986:2
Destruction, symbolized by the fires in the Valley of Hinnom, in which the
garbage of Jerusalem was destroyed. PD63/73
The righteous -- The one ultimate standard of admission to blessedness
in the future is character. The righteous go into life eternal. R800:5
Into life eternal -- Greek, aionios, lasting. R2607:6
Life in perpetuity, so long as one remains in accord with the spirit and
laws of the Creator. Not based on an immortal quality, but on the
principle that there is no penalty to any intelligent creature except upon
condition of sin. R3387:6
On condition of absolute obedience to the law of love, not merely a
perfunctory obedience, but an obedience from the heart. R3605:2
The same lasting life which father Adam had--human life unimpaired either
by sentence or disease. R3387:3
The English word "everlasting" is stronger than any word in Greek or
Hebrew; the strongest Greek or Hebrew word would properly be translated
"lasting." R3387:3
The antithesis of "everlastingly cut off from life." R1040:2, 4695:4,
2608:2, 1086:5, 487:1*
The exact antithesis of the everlasting punishment designed for the goats.
R2608:2
At the end of the age Messiah will bless all the sheep class. R4986:4
The trial continues until each individual has been either rewarded or
punished. R4986:5
Matthew 26
Matthew 26:4
By subtilty -- Hesitating only lest it should cause tumult. R4702:2

And kill him -- Anger, envy, hatred, united in branding him as an
imposter and in sending him to death "for the good of the cause." R4702:2
So far as Caiaphas was concerned, his mind was already made up in respect
to Jesus, and he merely sought opportunity to carry it into effect, to
kill him. R2780:3
Matthew 26:5
Not on the feast day -- But our Lord eluded them and returned only at
the time of the Feast of the Passover. R2312:3
Matthew 26:6
Now when -- Maybe on the night before his betrayal two days before the
feast of the Passover; but the consensus of opinion seems to be that it
occurred on the Sabbath evening preceding the triumphal ride to Jerusalem.
R4702:2, 3877:1
Supposedly about a year and a half after a similar entertainment and
anointing in the home of another Simon. (Luke 7:36-50) R2625:3
In the house -- One of the Evangelists says that Lazarus sat at the
feast, Martha was one of those who served, but the story deals especially
with the work of Mary. R3877:2
Simon the leper -- Not mentioned in the narrative; probably already
dead. He is conjectured to be either the father of Lazarus, Mary and
Martha; or that Martha was his widow, and that Lazarus and Mary were
younger than she. R2743:3
Quite possibly he had been healed by the Lord, and this may have been the
beginning of the intimate acquaintance with the family of Lazarus, Martha
and Mary. R3877:2
We ourselves also had the leprosy of sin, condemnation, and were children
of wrath even as others; but our sins have been graciously covered by the
Redeemer, the leprosy has been cleansed. R3878:4
Matthew 26:7
A woman -- Mary, sister of Martha and Lazarus. R3877:2, 4702:2

Let the Marthas serve the Lord in one way and the Marys pour out their
most precious spikenard perfume, assured that neither service will be
forgotten. R2744:4
An alabaster box -- Our alabaster boxes are our hearts, which should be
full of the sweetest perfumes of good wishes, kindness and love toward
all, but especially toward Christ, head and body. R2744:3
Our hearts are receptacles for the holy Spirit, the spirit of love, the
choicest perfume, most precious to the Lord and to men. R2744:3
The flowers you mean to send for the coffin, send to brighten and sweeten
your friends' homes before they leave them. R3878:3*
Precious ointment -- Equivalent to a year's wages. R3535:1, 3877:2
400,000 full-grown roses are required to make one ounce of this perfume.
R2448:2
Mary's love was so intense that it knew no economy. R2743:6
Our Lord wished that all who should know the good tidings should know also
of his appreciation of such devotion to him, and that the more it costs
us, the more he appreciates it. R2744:5
Expensive because it cannot be gathered rapidly. It requires patient
perseverance in well-doing to be "filled with all the fullness of God."
(Eph. 3:19) R2744:3
And -- While Christ was still alive. A week later and it would have been
too late. Do not keep the alabaster boxes of your love and tenderness
sealed up until your friends are dead. Flowers on the coffin cast no
fragrance backward on the weary road. R3878:3
Poured it -- The twelve apostles were too cold, calculating and
business-like; Mary made up for this deficiency in the warmth of her
loving devotion. R3877:5
She was not a woman's rights advocate; she found no fault with her Lord
that he had not chosen her and Martha to be members of the company of
apostles. R3877:3
These climaxes of character are not reached suddenly. Mary's love had been
growing from the first. R2745:4
It behooves us to anoint the brethren with kindly words, loving
sympathies, tender expressions, while they are still in the valley of
conflict, before they have reached the end of the journey. R3878:1
On his head -- The perfume of her act of love, kindness and adoration
has come down through the ages, filling the entire church with its sweet
odor of devotion, and illustrating the noblest and truest qualities of the
feminine heart. R3877:4
Matthew 26:8
Indignation -- Instigated by Judas. R4702:3, 4487:6, 3877:2

The one who made the greatest ado on behalf of the poor, and who objected
most to the expression of Mary's devotion, was the thief and murderer,
Judas. R2744:5
To what purpose -- We may sympathize with the apostles, for they were
all poor men, unused to such luxury and extravagance. R3877:2
This waste -- Considered in the light of the odor, blessing and
refreshment which it has shed upon all the Lord's people throughout this
Gospel age, Mary's alabaster jar of perfume, very costly, has proved to be
extremely cheap. R3535:3
The Lord's followers are to be prudent and economical, but not
parsimonious, miserly, stingy or hoarders of wealth. R3877:6
Similarly, we were once inclined to consider conventions of the Lord's
people entirely too expensive, but do so no more. R3877:6
If we should err on either side, would it not be safest and best that we
should err on the side of too great generosity rather than on the reverse?
R3878:6
Matthew 26:9
Might have been sold -- Mary may have prepared the perfume herself, for
the objection is not to its having been purchased for a large sum, but
that it might have been sold for 300 pence. (Mark 14:5) R2744:1
Given to the poor -- It is a mistake to suppose that time or money spent
in the Lord's service or in the study of his plan means that so much less
will be given to the poor. R3877:5
Fellow-disciples tell us that we should not be seeking to anoint the
saints with the sweet perfume of his present truth, but should, on the
contrary, be going to the outcasts of society in slum-work or foreign
missions. R2744:6
Matthew 26:10
A good -- How appreciative was the Great Teacher of everything done for
him! R4702:3
Our Lord appreciated the matter fully; the sweet odor of the heart which
prompted the act still more than the sweet odor which filled the entire
house. R2743:6
Money is not the only thing of which people are sorely in need. R2448:3
Matthew 26:11
Ye have the poor -- Yet we have no evidence whatever that the Lord or
the apostles attempted to break the chains of the "slavery of labor."
NS730:3
Always with you -- Until the end of the reign of sin and death, the poor
will be here. R4702:6
By and by there will be no poor; for, under the kingdom conditions, love
will be the ruling principle instead of selfishness. R4702:6
Me ye have not -- So the body of Christ will not always be here to be
ministered unto. Whatever we can do now for our fellow- members of the
body of Christ, the Head will reckon as done unto him. R567:6, 4702:6
Matthew 26:12
On my body -- The feet members of the body of Christ are still with us,
and it is still possible to anoint them with the precious spikenard
perfume. R3878:5
For my burial -- Which occurred later the same week. NS779:2
Probably Mary had no thought of perfuming the Lord's body for burial.
R2744:2
Matthew 26:13
A memorial of her -- The person who is economical and penurious in his

dealings with the Lord is sure to be the loser thereby. "The liberal soul
shall be made fat." (Prov. 11:25) R3535:4
Memorials to their praise, testimonies of their love. R2744:4
It was not merely Mary that our Lord wished to memorialize, but especially
her deed. R2744:5
Matthew 26:14
Then -- No doubt reasoning that, since Jesus was about to die, he might
as well sell the Lord and get what he could out of the transaction. R3878:6
Judas Iscariot -- The very one who had objected to Mary's act of love
and devotion. R2744:5, 3878:4
Representing some who, for earthly advantage for themselves, are willing
to deliver other members of the Lord's Body up to tribulation, adversity
and reproach. R3366:6
Judas hailed from the south of Palestine, while the other eleven of Jesus'
disciples were Galileans. R5552:1
It is inferred that, because of superior business qualities, Judas was
made treasurer of the apostolic company. R5552:1
Critical of the Master and fault-finding. From his standpoint, Jesus was
carrying on the campaign for the throne in an improper manner. R4487:5
Made acquainted with the heavenly gift and the powers of the age to come
(Heb. 6:4,5) not by direct reception of the spirit, but by the indirect
blessing which came upon the twelve through our Lord's special impartation
to them. R4488:2; Q382:5, 639:1
He had justification through faith; he had accepted the Lord as the
Messiah. Q639:1
We find no reason for believing that Judas was a bad man at the time of
his selection by Jesus to be one of the twelve apostles. R5552:1, 3887:4
Matthew 26:15
I will deliver him -- It was not compulsion on Judas' part, not his
duty. Q382:2
Covenanted with him -- It would appear from the Greek text and the
Revised Version that Judas received the money for his work in advance.
R2745:1
The murder of Jesus was plotted in advance. R5561:1
Thirty pieces of silver -- The price of a slave. "So they weighed for my
price thirty pieces of silver." (Zech. 11:12) R2745:1
Those who teach for money that which they know is not the truth have the
Judas spirit. R2779:4
Doubtless Judas reasoned that he could make the money out of the
transaction without working any injury to the Lord. R4488:1
Which, on the basis of labor, amounted to between $200 and $300 in value.
R5552:2
It was not merely the thirty pieces that influenced the ingrate. Rather,
it was pride. He had thought to be associated with the Master in an
earthly throne. R4708:4
No doubt others today, willing less directly to sell the Lord for earthly
advantages or influence or money, find ways of excusing their perfidy.
R2745:2
Matthew 26:16
To betray him -- While the Master himself cannot be betrayed today for
pieces of silver, "his brethren" can be thus dealt with. R4488:2
Matthew 26:17
The first day -- The day before the Passover proper began, on the 14th
day of Nisan. R2771:5, 1800:2
While holding that the Memorial supper was instituted on Thursday, we have
no contention with those who suppose that these events took place on other
days of the week. R3879:1, 4713:6, 3375:1
Of the feast -- Not the principal feast, which lasted a week; but the
roast lamb supper, which preceded the general feast. R3879:2, 3363:1
It was not the Passover Feast, but the supper, that Jesus observed, and
after which he instituted, as instead of it, a memorial of his death in
the bread and wine. R833:3
Unleavened bread -- Typifying the world's proper condition during the
For thee to eat -- Jesus was a Jew and, therefore, obligated to every
feature of the Mosaic Law. R4703:1
The passover -- The type has, for more than 18 centuries, been in
process of fulfillment. R4703:1
Matthew 26:18
Go -- Luke tells us that it was Peter and John who were sent on this
mission. R3363:6
To such a man -- Probably the man was a believer, or there may have been
some previous arrangement with him. R1800:3
At thy house -- During the passover week, hospitality was recognized as
a duty in Jerusalem; hence the readiness with which the Lord's request for
a room was granted. R1800:3
Matthew 26:19
They made ready -- In the sense of furnishing and preparing the lamb,
the unleavened bread, bitter herbs and the fruit of the vine. R3363:6
Matthew 26:20
Even was come -- The killing of the lamb was on the evening of the
fourteenth day, or more correctly, according to the original, between the
evenings; that is, between the sun's declining and its setting, about 3
p.m. R2953:2*
Matthew 26:21
They did eat -- The time had come for the fulfillment of the antitype of
the Passover. Jesus himself was to be the Passover lamb. R4703:3
One of you -- No ray of hope for Judas' restoration. The goodness of God
only hardened his heart, and therefore there was no remedy. R1800:6
Matthew 26:22
Lord, Is it I? -- The Greek word would seem to indicate that the

question signified, Lord, do you mean to accuse me? I am not the one, am
I? R2772:1
They were not overconfident, but each seemed to fear his own stability.
They had the spirit of self-examination. R1800:6
Each one asked, feeling it incumbent to thus prove his innocence of such a
charge. R3879:2, 3364:3
It is well that each one ask himself this searching question, to see that
he is not in any way sacrificing the truth. R4907:4
Matthew 26:23
He that dippeth -- It was not the attacks of the Scribes and Pharisees,
but the defection of his closest friends, that most troubled his heart;
wounded by professed friends. R3820:2
Shall betray me -- Despite the custom that to receive another's
hospitality was, especially in the East, a pledge of friendship. R3879:3,
4907:1
Matthew 26:24
Goeth -- To death. R4909:3

Woe unto that man -- Upon Judas alone our Lord placed the full
responsibility, the full guilt, of his death. R4909:3, 1962:5
Judas was a free moral agent; by entertaining selfish and evil thoughts he
became the willing tool of Satan. R4487:2,3
We are not to consider that Judas was simply fulfilling a prophecy
irrespective of his own responsibility. R4907:2, 3879:4, 3364:2
He sinned against great light; there is no hope for him in a future life.
R4907:2, 4703:6, 5552:6
Betrayed -- Today some are willing to sell the Lord for the good things
of this present life: salary and honor amongst men, etc. R4907:4
Had not been born -- Because the advantages of his useless, wasted life
did not overbalance the sorrows and anguish which terminated in despair,
suicide and the second death. R3879:4, 4907:3
This statement would not be true if Judas were to have an opportunity
during the Millennial age. R5683:3, 4909:3, 1962:6; Q382:4, 639:1
Every suicide, by his act, confesses his wish that he had never been born.
R3364:3, 5552:5, 4907:3
Judas had not been begotten again of the holy Spirit, for spirit-begetting
was not possible until Pentecost; but this does not prove that he could
not die the second death. R5683:2
Judas was one of the twelve upon whom Jesus had specially conferred a
measure of his spirit, enabling him to perform miracles. This made him
specially responsible. R4907:3
These words leave no question, we think, that Judas had already enjoyed
his full share in the great atonement work, through his intimate
opportunities and corresponding responsibilities. R3879:4, 3364:3
But if God has anything for Judas in the future, you will not find me
making any objection. Q382:5
May the meaning not be that it would have been better for Judas if he were
not born yet? This seems to be the meaning in the Diaglott translation.
R2283:3*
Matthew 26:25
Judas -- Judas brazenly challenged the Master's knowledge of his

deceitful course and said, Is it I? R4703:6
The Judas class are those whose hearts are not loyal, but selfish, and
enter into the Adversary's schemes heartily. R4908:1, 4907:6
Master, is it I? -- If he did not also ask, it would imply his
acknowledgment that he was the one. R3879:3, 2772:1
Such was his spirit of bravado. R3364:3
Thou hast said -- Yes, I refer to you. R3879:3, 4703:6
At this point, Judas left the room to consummate the betrayal. R2772:2
Probably Judas was not with the others when our Lord washed their feet and
subsequently instituted the memorial; so only loyal, devoted disciples of
Christ should meet to celebrate his death on its anniversary. R2772:2
Not a threat, not an imprecation, not a manifestation of bitterness, but
merely an expression of sorrow and of pity. Our enemies, too, are to be
pitied, not hated. R3364:3
The Master was gentle toward him to the very end, giving him every
opportunity to relent and retrace his steps, down to the very last act.
R5552:6
The testimony that Jesus knew in advance who would betray him does not
prove that Jesus knew this at the time when he chose Judas. R5553:1
The divine program was carried out and the Scriptures were fulfilled; but
the coincidence marks the divine foreknowledge, without implying that God
in any manner instigated the treacherous conduct. R4703:6 It was not God's
foreknowledge that injured Judas, but his own wrong course; and thus it is
with all. R5553:1
Matthew 26:26
Jesus took bread -- Some of the left-over unleavened bread. R3526:3

Instituting the antitype of the Jewish Passover. R2771:1; PD67/79; SM563:2
Subsequently, after the Passover supper, he instituted with the bread and
the fruit of the vine his substitutionary memorial of himself. R4703:5
A commemoration, or memorial, of the antitype. NS75:6
When this cup and unleavened bread are used as a celebration of the
Passover, it should, on every occasion, be considered a celebration, not
of the type, but of the antitype. NS76:1
Instead of the lamb would be the unleavened bread, representing our Lord's
flesh. SM563:3
Representing the sacrifice of Christ's humanity for our redemption. R1800:6
"I am the bread of life." (John 6:35) R2772:3
Unleavened, declaring that our Lord Jesus was free from sin, a lamb
without spot or blemish. R5192:4
In partaking of the broken, unleavened bread, we memorialize the purity,
the sinlessness, of him who gave himself to be the ransom-price for all
mankind. R4591:2, 1636:6, 840:3
Bread stands for and symbolizes all food; indeed, wheat is said to contain
every element of nutrition in its proper proportion. R3879:6
Soda biscuits are unleavened bread and will do very well. R3526:6
And brake it -- It must be "broken" in order to be appropriated; it was
necessary also that Jesus be "broken" in death, sacrificed for our sins,
ere we could appropriate his merit and enjoy everlasting life. R3526:4,
740:4
The Church as a whole must be broken by "laying down our lives on behalf
of the brethren" as Christ laid down his life for all. R2772:5
And also our own breaking or dying as members of the Church. R4591:5
"The loaf which we break, is it not the communion (the common union,
participation) of the body of Christ?" (1 Cor. 10:16) R4591:5
At the time Jesus was the only one who could break the loaf, all others
being unjustified. R5341:5
And gave it -- In giving the bread and the cup, the Master pictorially
offered them justification and sanctification. R4703:6
Take, eat -- In two senses: appropriating and feasting on the great work
done for us by our Redeemer; and appreciating our privilege of
joint-sacrificing with our Redeemer. R3526:5, 740:6 SM564:2
The rights and privileges which Christ surrendered voluntarily may be
appropriated by all who accept him. R3879:6
Symbolically represents our partaking by faith of the fleshly perfection
of the man Jesus. R4591:3
The partaking means to us, primarily, acceptance and appropriation to
ourselves, by faith, of justification to human rights and privileges
secured by our Lord's sacrifice of these. R2772:4; SM563:3
Eating and digesting the truth, especially this truth; appropriating by
faith his righteousness to ourselves, we realize him as both the way and
the life. R840:3, 5192:4
God's object in justifying by faith the church is for the very purpose of
permitting them to present their bodies living sacrifices, and thus have a
part with our Lord in his sacrifice, as members of his body. R2772:4
After we thus partake of him, become justified by appropriating his
righteousness, we, by consecration, become associated with him as part of
the one broken loaf--food for the world. (1 Cor. 10:16) R5192:5, 840:3
Partaking of the glorious elements of his character through eating his
flesh and appropriating the merits of his sacrifice. NS632:1
Except we eat of his flesh (appropriate the merit of his sacrifice) and
unless we drink his blood (join in sacrifice with him), we have no life in
us--inherent life, immortality. (John 6:53) NS770:5
Eat and drink, O beloved, says the King to his spouse (Song of Solomon
5:1). Let us eat and drink reverently, devotedly, thoughtfully,
prayerfully, tearfully perhaps. R1505:1
This is my body -- Represents the flesh of the antitypical Lamb. F464;
R2772:3
This represents me, the antitypical Lamb. NS75:6
He could not have meant that it was actually his literal body, for he was
still in the flesh. R3879:5, 3526:4, 3364:5, 2772:3
Not his prehuman existence as a spirit being, but his pure, spotless,
human nature was laid down on behalf of sinners. R2772:3
Matthew 26:27
He took the cup -- A new feature. While all believers might partake of
the bread, realize justification through the merit of his sacrifice, only
a certain class of them were invited to partake of the blood, the cup
representing death. SM563:4
Representing the crushing of the grapes, the blood of the grapes, the
Master's blood, his life poured out, sacrificed, and their lives with him.
R3880:3, 5081:2, 4591:4, 4453:4, 4331:3
The juice of the grapes not only speaks of the crushing of the grape till
blood comes forth, but it also speaks of an after-refreshment. R1637:4
The cup of shame, of sorrow, of indignity, of self-denial on behalf of
others. R4429:2, 5087:6
The cup of degradation, bitterness, distress, suffering and death. PT383:T*
It is the cup of sacrifice, even unto death. And not only is it the
sacrifice of life, but of reputation and all that humanity holds dear.
R1898:3
While this wine of sacrifice exhausts the human nature, it invigorates and
makes strong the spiritual nature. R588:3
Which symbolized our Lord's death, our Lord's sacrifice of his earthly
rights, which was sufficient of itself to have sealed the New Covenant.
R4453:4
It was Jesus' cup of which he drank, which he gave to his disciples to
finish. R4475:1
It is one cup, though it contains the juice of many grapes. The grapes
cannot maintain themselves as grapes if they would constitute the
life-giving spirit. R5341:3, 2772:6
The same cup as offered to James and John (Matt. 20:22) and as the "cup of
salvation" (Psa. 116:13) and as that referred to in Psa. 23:5. R4555:5;
NS755:2
The antitype of the cup, in its highest sense, will be the new joys in the
kingdom. R4703:6
Nowhere is this cup described as wine, though it may have been. R2772:6
We are not told that it was wine; therefore it is an open question whether
it was fermented or unfermented. We may feel sure that unfermented grape
juice will fulfill the terms of the injunction. R3879:6
Our recommendation is against a general use of wine as being possibly a
temptation to some weak in the flesh. It might not be amiss to put a small
amount of fermented wine into the unfermented grape or raisin juice.
R2773:4
If any one should feel himself endangered by tasting wine at the
remembrance of the Lord's death, we would recommend that such a one use
raisin juice instead which, though not wine, is certainly a "fruit of the
vine." R509:5
Scientific men recognize quite a difference between alcoholic or vinous
fermentation and a putrefactive fermentation. The result of the former is
to cast out impurities and produce a sweet liquid, while the other process
produces sourness and ultimately rottenness. R509:4
Gave thanks -- Indicative of a joyful acquiescence in all the sufferings
which the breaking of the bread and the crushing of the grapes implied.
R2773:2
Gave it to them -- Only the Little Flock is invited to participate with
the Lord. R4310:2; NS770:4
It is not for the world. R5342:3
Christ symbolically gave them the privilege of sharing in his sufferings.
R4436:4, 4475:1, 840:4; Q188:T
The shed blood was the ransom price for all; but his act of handing the
cup to his disciples and asking them to drink of it was an invitation to
them to become partakers of his sufferings. R5192:5
We need not only nourishment and strength from the bread, but we need the
precious blood as our redemption to release us from the condemnation of
justice. R3526:5
Drink ye all of it -- All of you drink all of it--leave none of the
sufferings of Christ for the coming age. R3880:2, 4605:3, 4453:4, 4429:4
An invitation to participate with him in the sacrifice of earthly life,
interests, hopes, aims, ambitions--everything. SM564:1; R3880:2
All who would sit with him in his throne must drink of this same cup that
our Lord drank, of self-denial, of self-sacrifice; all must be immersed
into his death. R4591:5, 5087:6, 5081:2, 4436:4, 226:1
There will be none of it left for others to drink afterwards. R4310:3
The privilege of drinking with our Lord in this cup of sacrifice belongs
to this age only. None will be left for the future. NS722:6, 770:4
A double signification: first, it must all be drunk before the end of the
Gospel age; and secondly, all who would be members of his body must drink
of it. R5341:3, 4453:4
Virtually inviting us to drink into his death, to "be made conformable
unto his death." (Phil. 3:10) R111:4
Jesus passed the cup along, passed the merit of his sacrifice through us,
his followers. R4453:4, 4367:2
Participation in the blood of the New Covenant, in providing the
wherewithal for sealing the New Covenant. CR47:5; Q188:T; R4456:4
He is still saying this to us. R4429:1
This cup must not be allowed to pass. PT389:1*
Showing not only interest in his sacrifice, but also expressing our own
covenant to be dead with him and to drink of his cup. R325:5
Divide it amongst yourselves. R4475:1
All who accept this invitation thereby pledge their lives in the same
service for which He gave his life, a thought entirely additional to
anything in the Jewish Passover type. SM564:1
Also signifies our participation in his dishonor, our share in his
sacrifice--the death of our humanity. R1637:2, 840:5
Memorializes the consecration to death of all the members of the body of
Christ. R4980:5; NS632:1
The appropriation of this by us signifies primarily our acceptance of
restitution rights and privileges which our Lord has thus, at his own
cost, secured for us. R2772:4
There is a peculiar pleasure in drinking of this cup, the pleasure of
fellowship in his sufferings (Phil. 3:10) and the associated hope of
drinking with our Lord in his other cup--of joy, glory and blessings.
NS755:3
Not the many who will be blessed by the New Covenant are invited to become
partakers of the blood, but the few, the little flock. NS297:6
None are to be forbidden who profess faith in the precious blood and
consecration to our Savior's service. R2773:5
Matthew 26:28
This is my blood -- His human life, his being, his soul, poured out unto
death on our behalf. R2772:4, 2272:2, 1637:2
"The blood maketh atonement for the soul." (Lev. 17:11) R1293:2
Hence life; not life retained, but life shed or given, yielded up,
sacrificed life. R2772:6, 5192:5, 4605:3, 840:4
Primarily the Lord's death; but, by divine arrangement, the death of his
Church is also made necessary. R4310:3
Which seals. R4331:3
In which his members share. T33; NS297:5, 631:6
The blood which will seal it is now being used in the interest of the
elect, spiritual Israel. NS722:6
Who will apply it? Jesus. Will it be his own blood? Yes, because you are
members of his body. "Without me ye can do nothing." (John 15:5) Q188:T
The new testament -- The New Covenant. R4617:4, 4331:3
The New Covenant is the one that supersedes the Law Covenant. R3364:5
The blood with which the New Covenant would be sprinkled, sealed, made
efficacious. R4331:6
Jesus sealed or ratified the New Covenant with his own blood, death, just
as Moses had ratified the Law Covenant, which was a shadow of this, with
the blood of a bullock and a goat. R111:1
His will or testament, bequeathing his earthly rights to the earthly seed
of Abraham and to the world through them. R4429:4
Which he sealed, or made effective, with his own precious blood. R1604:1
The blood which seals, makes binding, ratifies, the New Covenant. R2859:1,
740:6
Before our Lord Jesus could become Mediator, he must seal the New Covenant
with his own precious blood. E28
Not until the sacrifice of Christ and his church is complete, at the end
of this age, will the blood of the New Covenant be ready to apply, to seal
the New Covenant, to make it operative. Q188:T
The New Covenant cannot become operative until the cup of the Lord's
sufferings, which was left behind, has been drained in death by the last
members of his body. NS297:5,6, 4310:3
The merit of Christ passes through the Church for the sealing of the New
Covenant. Q168:2
It takes the entire Gospel age to find the proper number of those who are
thus invited to share in this cup. R4617:4
When the Church shall have finished using the blood and are glorified,
that same merit will be applied for the sealing of the New Covenant.
R4513:6
When we drink of Christ's cup we become sharers with him in making the
Covenant with Israel, and through Israel, with the world. R4625:4,5
The two oldest Greek manuscripts of the New Testament, the Sinaitic and
the Vatican, omit the word "new." R3880:1
There was another covenant, the old covenant, the foundation covenant of
all covenants, the Abrahamic covenant, which was sealed by our Lord's
death. R3880:1
Which is shed -- The giving up of Christ's life provided the ransom
price. R1335:6, 3526:5
Our Lord also indicated that the cup signified our participation in his
dishonor, our share in his sacrifice, the death of our humanity. R5192:6
For many -- Not for the Church only, but for the sins of the whole
world. R740:5
The world in general. R111:1
For all. R1363:3
Contradicting those who say his blood has nothing to do with forgiveness
of sins; of those who say that all will be everlastingly saved; and of
those who say only the "little flock" of this Gospel age shall be saved.
R1799:6
Remission of sins -- Through faith in Jesus' blood we have remission of
sins. R4476:1, 1443:3
"Without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sins." (Heb. 9:22)
E442
We were redeemed, not with Jesus' example, but with the precious blood of
Christ. (1 Pet. 1:19) R1810:4*
It was necessary that Christ should die for our sins. Our sins could never
have been forgiven by divine justice except through the divine arrangement
by which he paid our penalty. R3880:5
There is no other way to attain eternal life except through accepting the
blood once shed as the ransom price for the sins of the whole world.
R2772:6
Matthew 26:29
Fruit of the vine -- The antitypical thing represented in the wine. R3365:1
Representing the sacrificed life of our Lord. R5192:5
Representing exhilaration, the joys of the Kingdom. R3365:1, 5538:6,
5643:2, 4703:6
Grape juice or raisin juice may be used as the symbol in the Memorial
service. F476; R5194:5; Q486:4
Until that day -- The great seventh, Millennial day; day of his Kingdom.
Q78:3
Until his second coming, in power and great glory, to receive the Church
as his elect bride. R4703:5
Two great days are contrasted: the Gospel age of suffering and the
Millennial age of glory. R5538:5, 5643:2
Drink it new -- The memorial which he instituted would find its
fulfillment in the Kingdom. R2773:1
Not that he would drink literal wine in the Kingdom, but the antitypical
thing represented in the wine. R3365:1
After he had drunk this cup faithfully he would be given a different cup,
a different experience: glory, honor and immortality. R5538:6
If Jesus' followers suffer with him they will participate with him in his
future cup of joy. R5643:4, 4703:6
To partake of the cup of the Lord in the present time signifies to share
in his sufferings; but to partake of his cup in the coming age will mean
to share in his glory and joy. R1695:2
Commemorative of the heroism of their faith and their fidelity to the
divine purpose under the most crucial tests, and a rejoicing together in
the victory of that faith. R1801:4
Implying a new wine under different conditions at some distant date.
R3880:3
The new wine--new life and joy. R2436:3, 1504:5
The cup of joy and blessing, honor and glory, in the Kingdom. R3880:3,
5420:2, 5341:2, 4703:6
The new wine, the participation with the Master in uplifting the world of
mankind. R3880:4
Symbolized by Jesus' first miracle of turning the water into wine. R1695:2
My Father's kingdom -- Beyond the veil, at his second coming in power
and great glory. R4703:5, 5341:2, 3880:3
As usual our Lord had something to say about the kingdom. It seems to have
been associated in his every discourse. R2773:1
As a result of the trials and sufferings symbolized, there will be a
jubilation in the Kingdom. R2773:1
Kingdom glory is the end of the symbol. R5193:2, 2272:4, 1290:6
Primarily it is the Kingdom of the Father, but the Father has voluntarily
proposed to place the dominion of the earth for 1000 years under the full
charge of a Viceroy, Christ and his bride. D642
Matthew 26:30
Sung an hymn -- A hymn of praise, no doubt, thanksgiving to the Father

that his course was so nearly finished and that he found thus far grace
sufficient for every time of need. R2773:2
They went out -- Instead of dispersing, they went out together. R1801:4
Omitting our usual greetings, let us keep our thoughts with our
Lord--beaten, condemned to death, carrying his own cross, crucified--for
our sins. R3527:1
Let each go home with his heart full; thus we may prolong our communion
and fellowship with the Master. R5195:2
Realizing he would be arrested, our Lord probably did not wish to bring
commotion or trouble upon the friend who had so kindly permitted the use
of the upper room. R2773:6
Into the mount -- To the Garden of Gethsemane and fresh trials; so every
recurrence of the Memorial season brings fresh trials, fresh testings,
fresh siftings upon the Lord's people. R3365:4
Matthew 26:31
Ye shall be offended -- Disappointed, seeing him suddenly taken and

ignominiously crucified as a felon. B111
Seeing the hopes of the kingdom going glimmering. R4487:6; B111
It was his doctrines that offended the people, not his personality;
nevertheless; their resentment was against his personality rather than
against the doctrines, which were too strong for them to attack. R4488:4
I will smite the shepherd -- God permitted the Adversary to smite him.
R4487:4
In proportion as we follow closely to the Master's footsteps, our
experiences will be similar to his. We, too, shall be hated. R4488:4
Flock shall be scattered -- Be desolate, aimless, perplexed. B111
"And they all forsook him and fled." (Mark 14:50) R4756:2, 3178:6
Only two followed him at the end: one, in terror, denied him; the other
viewed him from afar. R4488:5
Being thus forewarned, no experience should move us from our constancy and
Matthew 26:33
Peter -- The Peter class, the true-hearted, not sufficiently watching,

praying or on guard, are at times taken unawares, and for a moment
dishonor the Lord. R4907:6
We should strive to be not of the Peter class, but of the class
represented by the Lord himself: of the watching, praying, faithful kind.
R4908:4
Never be offended -- It is the specially loyal and ardent that the
Adversary seeks most to entrap. R4712:2
Peter was still unconscious of his weakness and his need, though full of
loving loyalty to the Lord. R1987:6
How little did this courageous man understand the nature of the trials and
difficulties immediately before him, or realize the weak points of his own
impulsive nature. R4712:2
He did not know how much weakness was in him; therefore, when the Lord was
watching and praying that momentous night, St. Peter was one of the first
to fall asleep. R5202:1
Matthew 26:34
Deny me thrice -- Perhaps the Lord allowed that to happen to Peter for
our sakes, that we might realize that we need to be careful to put our
confidence in the Lord. CR307:5
Matthew 26:36
Jesus with them -- Because he loved them and knew they loved him, he
permitted them to accompany him to the place of prayer that they might
watch and pray with him. R1801:2
Gethsemane -- Oil-press place. R2773:3, 4707:2
Not a wild woods nor a public garden, but an olive orchard; supposed to
have been the home of the mother of Mark, reported to have been a wealthy
widow, a friend of Jesus' cause. R3885:2
Tradition has it that this garden belonged to the family of which the
apostles John and James were members. R4707:2
Sit ye here -- As a kind of outer guard. R3885:2, 2773:6, 1801:2
While I go and pray -- That he might find grace to help in time of need.
R1801:1
Matthew 26:37
Peter and the two -- The same three whom he had specially honored on
other occasions; the three most courageous, most zealous, most earnest, of
his disciples. R2774:1, 3885:2, 1801:2
To be sorrowful -- Because of the coming shame of trial, conviction and
execution as a blasphemer and seditionist. The perfect man must have
suffered far more than would have been possible for a fallen one. R3885:3
No doubt the thought of the extinguishment of life was an important factor
in our Lord's sorrow. R2774:3
And very heavy -- Oppressed with the fear that in some manner he might
have failed of perfection and that his death might mean extinction.
R3886:1, 4804:2,3
None can read this account thoughtfully without realizing that there must
be something wrong in the popular theory that our Lord Jesus was his own
His was no coarse, stoical nature, insensitive to pain, shame and loss;
nor was it a proud, self-centered nature, which stood aloof from human
fellowship. R1801:2
Matthew 26:38
Unto them -- They were inclined to think that he was taking a

pessimistic view of matters. R5090:3
My soul -- Being. R2502:2, 276:3
Exceeding sorrowful -- He was wondering whether or not he had done
everything to the Father's pleasement. CR149:4; R5403:4, 5331:4, 2774:4
The disciples were at a loss to understand his sadness. R5090:3
He was greatly amazed and sore troubled. The Greek carries the thought of
loneliness, home-sickness, friendlessness. R5551:1
Not only with the mental realization of death, but also the desolation of
his disciples forsaking him, the sorrowful reflections on the
irretrievable loss of Judas, the course of the Jewish nation, and the
degradation of the whole guilty world. In addition to all this was his
knowledge that every jot and tittle of the Law with reference to his
sacrifice must be perfectly fulfilled. R1801:3
We are glad that Jesus was not one of those cold, stoical icebergs, but
full of tender feelings and sensibilities, and consequently able to
sympathize with those most tender and delicate. R2774:2
Even unto death -- I feel as if I would die now, without coming into
that great crisis before me. R5551:1
The death of Jesus began at Jordan, merely culminating at Calvary. R5104:2
An agony which, of itself, would have worn him out shortly, an intense
mental and nervous strain which caused him to sweat great drops of blood.
R1801:2
Supposing 100 to represent perfect life, our Lord had the full 100 units
to lay down while we, at most, have only the one-hundredth part to lay
down. R2774:3
Matthew 26:39
A little farther -- Realizing the impossibility of even his dearest

friends appreciating his sorrowful condition. R4707:3
"I have trodden the winepress alone, and of the people there was none with
me" (Isa. 63:3). He was alone because he alone had been begotten of the
holy Spirit. R4707:5, 3886:4, 2467:2
Having gone to the Father alone, his thoughts turned inward upon himself
and his relationship to the Father, and outward upon the public shame of
his trial. R3885:3
Fell on his face -- Upon his knees, with his face to the earth. The
mental anguish seemed to come upon him here with a force of poignancy he
had never before experienced. R2774:1
And prayed -- Even the perfect human nature was not equal to such an
emergency without divine aid. R1801:4
O my Father -- No one can thoughtfully read these words without feeling
there is something thoroughly incorrect in the prevalent idea that our
Lord Jesus was his own Father, Jehovah. R2773:3
Let this cup -- Not the cup of death, which our Lord expected to drink,
but the peculiar death of shame and ignominy. R3886:2, 5422:1, 5421:2-6,
1247:3
He questioned the necessity of the public scorn and contempt as a
criminal. SM647:1
To his perfect mind the shame, disesteem and opprobrium added greatly to
his anguish. R5421:6
The question was, Had he been absolutely loyal to God in every particular?
If not, death would mean to him an eternal extinction of being; not only
the loss of heavenly glory, but the loss of everything. R4707:6, 3886:2
If he should fail in any part of the work, all would be lost, both for
himself and for men. Though he was a perfect man, he realized that the
flesh, however perfect, was unequal to the task. R1801:3
The same cup represented in the Communion service. R5421:3
Pass from me -- It is well to remember that his perfect organism was
much more susceptible to the pains and sorrows of the hour than could be
the feelings of others of the fallen race. R3885:3
Not as I will -- As a man. T54
I claim no rights nor attempt to follow my own ideas. SM647:1
The sacrifice of his will meant all that he had. CR453:5
He did not murmur nor rebel. R5422:1
Whatever is asked must, in propriety, include the thought and the
expression, Thy will, not ours, O Lord, be done. R2140:3
A petition of all who are truly the Lord's in everything--in matters
temporal, in matters spiritual. NS226:2
But as thou wilt -- As my heavenly Father. T54
Proving that his affirmation, "Lo, I come to do thy will, O God" (Heb.
10:7) was not empty words. R5421:3
He submitted himself to all the Father's will and thus proved his loyalty.
R5421:6
Though at the time he evidently could not see the necessity for every
feature of his test, he nevertheless knew that the love of God was too
great to allow a needless pain, and therefore he trusted him where he
could not at the time trace his inscrutable ways. R1808:4, 959:6
What our Lord did, and what he refrained from doing, we know was the
Father's will. R2037:5
Matthew 26:40
Asleep -- Luke explains that their sleep was the result of sorrow.
R2774:4
Could ye not watch -- Peter did not realize the importance of the hour.
R3886:6
Gently, Jesus reproved them. R4804:5
Matthew 26:41
Watch and pray -- By faith draw very near to the Master, and be full of
confidence in the divine plan. R4488:5
All true watchers must also be pray-ers [i.e. people who pray]; all
fervent pray-ers will also be watchers. Prayer represents the faith;
watching represents the works which must accompany it, so long as it is a
living faith. R2692:2, 2528:4, 2526:2
The necessity for watching as well as praying lies in the fact that we
have an adversary, an invisible foe, who seeks to seduce us, turn us aside
from our vows of consecration. NS227:2
The devil is seeking whom he may devour. He knows your weak points and is
ready to take advantage of them. R3179:4
To suppose that Christian life depends solely upon prayer, without earnest
study of God's Word, is like supposing that a tree could flourish from its
leaves only, without roots and soil. Both are needful. R4984:1, 799:2
What they would be praying for they would be striving for. The earnestness
of the praying would help them in the watching. R5312:3
Our part is to watch and pray and do our best; God's part is to overrule,
direct and supervise our affairs. R4660:2
Pray for guidance, wisdom and grace. R5331:5
The praying would signify that they were watching and that their own
watching was not sufficient, but that they would need divine assistance.
R5312:3
Some pray and neglect to watch, others watch and neglect to pray. Both
errors are serious. R4984:1, 2775:5, 799:2
Not merely on my account. You need to be in a watching attitude on your
own account. An hour of severe trial is upon us all. R2774:5
Our Lord watched and prayed; he got a blessing, was strengthened and came
off victor. The disciples did not watch and pray; as a result we find them
scattered and bewildered. R2775:2
Watching our words, thoughts and doings, seeing to it that we worship the
Lord in the beauty of holiness, not idolizing either dead or living men or
creeds. R4706:6
Watching our own weaknesses, failures and shortcomings, that we may
protect ourselves along the lines of these weaknesses. NS228:3
Watching not only the Lord's betrayal, trial and crucifixion, but also
their experiences of the subsequent days when the disciples met within
closed doors. R5312:3
Watch to be on guard against the encroachments of the world, the flesh and
the devil; watch for all the encouragements of the Lord's Word; watch for
everything that will strengthen faith, hope, loyalty and love. R2775:5,
2692:2
Pray together as the Lord's people; pray in our homes as families; pray in
secret, in private; have the spirit of prayer in all that we say and do.
R2775:6
Although a necessity, nowhere is prayer defined as a duty, nor is a form
of prayer furnished. R4984:4
The frequency and subject matter of prayer will be regulated by
circumstances and the earnestness of one's service. R4984:4
There seems to be special need of this at the Passover season. R3178:3
Be active, alert, and co-labor with God and with Christ. R5332:1, 5312:3
That ye enter not -- Yield not. R5202:1
Not that we would not have temptations come to us, but that we would not
fall into those temptations. R5312:5, 5331:5, 3759:3, 2774:4,
Those who neglect the Master's words will be sure to enter into
temptation, and be tolerably sure to fall therein. R2775:5
Into temptation -- In this hour of trial, which is upon us all. R2774:4
The close of this age is "the hour of temptation" (Rev. 3:10) or testing.
It is the Gethsemane hour. R2775:4, 5312:5, 3886:6
"Abandon us not in temptation, but deliver us from the evil one." (Matt.
6:13) R3759:6
As they were then entering into a time of special temptation, so we in the
end of this age are living in a time of special trial regarding all that
which we have learned. R5312:5
We have noted for several years the peculiar force of temptations at the
time of Passover every Spring. R3178:3
Spirit indeed is willing -- To them it merely meant that they were
willing in spirit, in mind, in intention. R5312:5; NS228:5
Their intention was better than their ability to perform. R5312:6
Here, the new creature, the will. R3986:2
Flesh is weak -- Greek, astheneo, meaning without strength; from a,
without; and sthenos, strength. R4099:2*
The old creature, mental and physical. R3986:2
Not up to the standard of righteousness, but we are strong in proportion
as we overcome the natural tendencies. R5313:2
How impossible it would be for us in any measure or degree to carry out
the good resolutions which we make when we accept Christ. NS228:6
Were we perfect, there would be little difficulty in ruling our minds and
our bodies as soon as the will had been fixed for righteousness. R3986:1
Matthew 26:42
This cup -- He knew his death to be necessary, unavoidable, but it was

the ignominious form of death, "even the death of the cross" (Phil. 2:8),
that staggered him. R2775:2
To his perfect mind the shame and disesteem, the opprobrium, added greatly
to the poignancy of his anguish. R5421:6
Representing the shame and ignominy of being executed as a blasphemer of
the divine law. R5421:3,2
The same cup represented in the Communion service. R5421:3
Pass away from me -- He felt a great shrinking from the coming
humiliation and degradation. R5421:3
Thy will be done -- Having learned it was the Father's will for him, he
was content to have it so. R5421:2
Matthew 26:43
And he came -- It was no sign of weakness that he thus craved human

sympathy. R1801:2
Matthew 26:44
The same words -- That is to say, the same sentiments were expressed.
R2774:5
Matthew 26:45
Sleep on now -- Not sarcasm; he wished that they get a little rest,
refreshment, in view of the ordeals of the day approaching. R3887:2
The hour is at hand -- He was assured of the Father's favor, and could
pass through any experience; he had gotten the victory. R5331:4
Matthew 26:47
Lo, Judas -- He either knew the garden as a spot frequented by Jesus and
his disciples, or had learned at the supper where the company intended to
go subsequently. R3887:2
A great multitude -- Not Roman soldiers, but a rabble of the curious
with certain servants of the high priest, who was also a judge; an
impromptu sheriff's posse. R3887:2
A number of men who served as policemen in the Temple and its precincts.
These were servants of the high priest. R5561:1
The under-priests and under-officers of Caiaphas' court, his household of
servants. R2780:6
And staves -- Maces. R5561:1
Matthew 26:48
Betrayed him -- There can be no excuse properly offered for treachery to

God and his cause. R5552:4
Matthew 26:49
Hail, master -- Some accompany a denial of the ransom with these words
and a deceitful kiss. R4909:4
And kissed him -- In profession of love. C189
Representatives of the Judas spirit also betray with a kiss, professing
great love and respect for the members of the body of Christ, which they
secretly smite for personal gain. R3887:6
The mind and conscience must be perverted before each step of sin. R5552:5
All such should be an abhorrence to every one who possesses the true,
noble, Christ-like spirit. R4909:4
The Greek indicates that he kissed the Lord repeatedly. R3887:2
Matthew 26:50
Friend -- Not the Greek word philos, beloved, or loving friend; but from
hetaire, which signifies comrade or partner. R3887:3
Mark the calm, dignified fortitude as a result of his Gethsemane prayers.
R1801:6
Matthew 26:51
One of them -- Peter. R3887:6, 4711:3, 3367:4

Drew his sword -- Which was carried as proof that our Lord was not taken
contrary to his own will. R3367:4, 5922:2
The having of the swords made possible the exhibition of the courage of
the disciples and the willingness of Jesus to submit. R5922:4, 2468:4
Matthew 26:52
Put up again thy sword -- Never afterward do we hear of the disciples

using force or violence in the service of the Lord. R3887:6
Never was there a time when this admonition was more needed by nominal
Christendom than today. R2779:4
That take the sword -- The blending of carnal with spiritual warfare is
impossible, and such a course is sure to cultivate, more and more, the
carnal mind. R1954:1
Shall perish -- A general principle. R5922:4
With the sword -- He who prepares for warfare will be pretty sure to get
plenty of it. R5922:4
We are never to use earthly power in seeking to promote the cause of the
Master. The only sword we may use is "the sword of the Spirit." (Eph.
6:17) R3888:1
Matthew 26:53
Give me more -- His request would have been honored. Having violated no
law, his life was not forfeited, and we believe could not have been taken
from him. R2037:5, 5046:3
He who declined to ask for personal help was nevertheless perfectly at
liberty to call upon these powers in the interests of his followers--in
the feeding of the multitude, the stilling of the tempest and the
providing of the taxes. F650
He could have escaped the awful experience, but he did not do so, but
willingly gave himself a ransom for sinners. R959:6
Legions of angels -- If I were willing to use divine power for my
personal comfort. F637, 650
Christ never prayed for deliverance from his natural troubles, but
cheerfully endured them as part of his sacrifice, and so should we. F636
He did not exercise this power for his own defence. R2787:6, 3902:1
Matthew 26:54
But how then -- Likewise those who now tread the same narrow way refuse
to ask to escape sacrifice for the same reason, that they may complete
their covenant of sacrifice. R749:5
Our Lord does not indicate by his language that he could ask for angelic
protection and yet retain the full measure of the Father's approval.
R2037:5
Hence we are debarred from asking for restitution blessings and
privileges. R2009:2
Thus it must be -- It would have been sin for him to have called on the
divine power for his relief or protection from any part of the dying
processes, because he had made a covenant of sacrifice. F636; R379:1
Those who consecrated to God, to be "conformed unto his death" (Phil.
3:10) must not only not keep back any part of the price, but see so
clearly the dependence of their glory on suffering with him that they ask
no physical healing for themselves. R379:1
He laid aside his own will and carried out the will of God, though it cost
him privation at every step and finally a death most painful and
ignominious. R1041:2
The temporal favors were withheld that the divine purpose might be
accomplished in the sacrificial death of his beloved Son. R1689:6
Matthew 26:56
Forsook him -- Are we prepared for the time when there will possibly be
a general scattering, as these "all forsook him and fled"? R3887:1
And fled -- Our Lord had said, "Let these go their way." (John 18:8)
R3888:1
Matthew 26:57
And they -- Their policy was to curry favor with the Roman Emperor and
to seek to hold the common people in subjection to themselves. R4711:1
Led him away -- Our Lord surrendered voluntarily. R5922:2
At probably three o'clock in the morning. R5561:1
Probably about one o'clock in the morning. The examination and trial are
supposed to have lasted until half past five in the morning. R2312:3
To Caiaphas -- Evidently the ringleader in the conspiracy against Jesus.
R2780:6
Some of their highest offices were held by irreligionists. The Chief
Priest was a Sadducee who wholly disbelieved in the promises of God to
Israel. R4710:6 Amongst Christians there are D.D.'s who are unbelievers.
R4711:1
We hearken to St. Peter's words respecting the transaction, "I wot that
through ignorance ye did, as did also your rulers." (Acts 3:15-17) R4710:3
Were assembled -- Contrary to the Jewish Law, which forbade the trial of
any man between sunset and sunrise. R3367:5, 4711:4, 3888:2, 2781:1
This, being the night of the paschal supper, made it still more
objectionable. R1809:2
Carefully excluding, evidently, a few such men as Joseph of Arimathea,
Nicodemus and probably a few others known to be favorably inclined toward
the new teacher. R1809:2
Matthew 26:58
High priest's palace -- The house of Annas, a superannuated high priest,

whose son-in-law Caiaphas officiated in his stead. R5561:1
Matthew
All the council -- The Sanhedrin, composed of seventy of the most

influential Jews, an ecclesiastical court, whose voice properly had great
influence with the Roman governor. R5561:2
The examination was merely a preliminary one to get together such
evidence as could be rushed through rapidly at a prearranged session the
following morning. R4711:5
Sought false witness -- They did not wish true witnesses who would tell
what they knew about the Master. R3888:3
Everywhere there is a tendency to make excuse and depart from the laws and
from the principles of justice, under the claim that the circumstances and
the conditions of the case make necessary such a violation of law and just
principles. R5560:3
Through bribery. R5561:2
Matthew 26:60
But found none -- They found many who willingly bore false witness
against him, but none whose witness agreed together. R1809:3
It is to the credit of those connected with the court that they neither
seriously misunderstood our Lord's teachings nor were willing to
misrepresent them. R3888:3
Came two false witnesses -- Who falsified by slightly perverting our
Lord's statements. R2312:5
The Jewish Law required at least two witnesses to any such trial. R2781:2
No attempt was made to bring any of those whom Jesus had relieved of
various sicknesses. R5561:2
Matthew 26:61
I am able -- Nothing about this was false evidence. It was what the
majority of those who heard probably understood our Lord to mean. R3888:3
Destroy the temple -- Not the Jewish Temple, "But this he spake of the
temple of his body." (John 2:19) R638:3*
The true Church. T70
In three days -- The fifth, sixth and seventh thousand-year days. R3375:2
The Sanhedrin decided that he was a blasphemer for saying this. R5421:2
Matthew 26:62
The high priest arose -- To give the effect that very damaging testimony
had been given. R2781:2
And said -- Caiaphas, not only high priest, but in this particular case,
acting as prosecuting attorney. R5561:2
Answerest thou nothing? -- A different and illegal plan, to excite the
prisoner so that he would make some incriminating confession. R2781:2
Matthew 26:63
Jesus held his peace -- He was not there to defend himself; and, if he
had been, there was no need for defence. There was nothing criminal in
what he had said respecting the Temple. R2781:2
Knowing that the truth was not desired and would avail nothing with these
men who so warmly cherished murder in their hearts. R1809:5
I adjure thee -- I put thee under oath. R2781:2
The Son of God -- Not Jehovah himself. R2781:4,5
The charge of blasphemy was based upon his claim of being a Son of God,
not the Father himself; that thus he was placing himself on a parity with
God, as being of the same kind or nature. R2781:5
For Jesus to keep quiet would have been to deny this great truth and to
have failed to give proper witness. R5561:4
Matthew 26:64
Jesus saith -- Our Lord was not bound to answer this question, which he
well knew would be used to incriminate him as a blasphemer. R2781:3
To have remained silent would have been to deny himself, denying the
truth, and denying the High Priest of the nation the knowledge and the
corresponding responsibility of the hour. R3888:5
Thou hast said -- That is my name. R3888:5
That is, I assent to what you have said; or, I am the Messiah, the Son of
God. R3888:5, 2781:3
Hereafter -- In the Millennial age, at his second coming. R3888:5, 5408:6
Ye shall see -- A declaration that those who there witnessed his
humiliation and mock trial should in due time recognize him as the honored
of God. R2781:3
Right hand of power -- Right hand signifies the chief place, position of
excellence or favor, next to the chief ruler. A92
"Sit thou on my right hand until I make thine enemies thy footstool."
(Psa. 110:1) A92, 93
Seated at the Father's right hand in the sense of being given this
permanent position of honor and dignity. R5408:6
Honored with a superior station, a position above all others. R2935:2
Jesus will be on the right hand when coming, and will remain on the right
hand during the Millennial age and forever. A93
The power and glory of his Kingdom, which he had previously affirmed was
not of this world but of the world to come, wherein dwelleth
In the testing of mankind, after the Mediatorial reign, Jesus will be the
Father's representative. R4999:4
In the clouds -- The time of trouble. B138
Matthew 26:65
Rent his clothes -- Greek, simla, or upper garment. R2781:3

His very robes were symbolic of the blessed one who stood in their midst,
fulfilling to the letter the predictions of the prophets. R1809:5
Implying to the Sanhedrin that, as a representative of God amongst them,
he had heard something awful indeed. R5561:4
As an expression of his pretended righteous indignation. R3889:1
Spoken blasphemy -- No charges of treason or sedition were made. Such
would have been out of order. Because Jews held their right to freedom
from the Roman yoke, treason to Rome would have been loyalty to Judaism.
R2312:6
Matthew 26:66
What think ye? -- Apparently only two refrained from this

vote--Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea; both had great respect for Jesus.
R5561:4
They answered -- As prearranged. R2781:3 Guilty of death -- Condemned by
the high priest as a blasphemer and malefactor. R5561:5
The Jews, who caused the crucifixion of Jesus, certainly did so in much
the same spirit which led St. Paul, then Saul of Tarsus, to cause the
stoning of St. Stephen. R4710:6
Matthew 26:67
Then -- During the interim between the 3 a.m. examination and the 5 a.m.
formal conviction of our Lord. R2470:5
Did they -- The servants, manifesting the same spirit as their masters.
Their methods were ruder because they were more ignorant and coarse.
R2470:4
Spit in his face -- "He shall see of the travail of his soul and shall
be satisfied." (Isa. 53:11) E52
Low minds delight in the misfortunes of those whom they realize to be
their superiors. R2470:5
How do we receive the buffetings, the trials, the "contradictions of
sinners"? Are we similarly patient and long-suffering? R3889:4
Others smote him -- "I gave my back to the smiters and my cheeks to them
that plucked off my hair; I hid not my face for shame and spitting" (Isa.
50:6) E52
"Consider him who endured such contradiction of sinners against himself."
(Heb. 12:3) R2781:6
Matthew 26:69
Peter sat without -- St. John, because of an acquaintance with the high
priest's family, penetrated further into the palace than St. Peter, who
stood in the courtyard. R4712:4
In the palace -- Courageous enough to enter, even after having cut off
the ear of one of the priest's servants. (John 18:15,16) R5202:2, 4711:4
Matthew 26:70
But he denied -- Peter had been too sure of his own stability, too
confident of his loyalty. He was entrapped by the Adversary along the very
line of his boasting. R4712:5
The weaknesses, faults and blemishes of his character were of his flesh
and not of his real heart intention. R4711:6
Matthew 26:74
Then -- An illustration of God's Temple class upon those who leave

symbolic Babylon, following the casting off of nominal Israel. C188
Began he to curse -- Foreshadowing the testing of the sanctuary class
now. C189
I know not the man -- But this sin was before the Spirit was given. F224
Matthew 26:75
And wept bitterly -- We know not what his prayers were, but we may be
sure they were full of deep contrition that he had denied the Master.
R5312:5
It is said that for the rest of his life Peter arose every morning at
cock-crowing to remember afresh this denial of his Lord. R3368:1
The weeping showed that the denial was merely the result of weakness of
the flesh. R5202:2
The weaknesses, the faults, the blemishes of his character were of his
flesh and not of his real heart intention. R4711:6
Peter was sifted (Luke 22:31), and almost failed; but, being "clean," true
at heart, he was enabled to come off victorious. Judas also was tested,
and he proved to be unclean. C189
Those who fail today should, too, weep bitterly for transgressions and
repent and profit by their experiences. R4712:5
Matthew 27
Matthew 27:1
Morning was come -- As early in the morning as possible, before the

people would be generally astir. R5570:2, 4712:3
The Sanhedrin having been called together so as to legally confirm the
illegal trial of the night previous. R3368:1, 4712:3, 2781:5, 1809:3
Matthew 27:2
To Pontius Pilate -- Tradition has it that Pilate had heard previously

of Jesus, and even met him by appointment privately, making inquiry
respecting his teachings. R5570:2
The governor -- The Roman Governor of Judea, the representative of
Caesar's government. R5570:2
Matthew 27:3
When he saw -- Implying that he was surprised when Jesus was condemned.
Apparently he surmised that Jesus, brought to the crucial test, would
assert himself as the Master and triumph over his enemies. R5552:4
Repented himself -- Judas was not without conscience, but lacked the
genuine loyalty of heart which, in the Lord's sight, is indispensable; the
absence of which, in Judas' case, was inexcusable. R3760:2
Were Judas' tears better than those of Esau (Heb. 12:17)? Did his
repentance lead to a renewed and reformed life, or to self-destruction
(Heb. 6:6)? R2283:6
Matthew 27:4
See thou to that -- Greek, optomai, attend thou to that. R140:3
Matthew 27:5
And hanged himself -- Acts 1:8 says that, falling headlong, he burst
asunder. Both are true. If he chose the branch of a tree overhanging a
precipice to hang himself, the rope might readily break under the strain
and the fall take place. R5552:6
The rewards of unrighteousness never yield the honors and blessings
coveted. R2469:4
"Woe to that man by whom the offence cometh." (Matt. 18:7) R3760:3
Every suicide, by his act, confesses his wish that he had never been born.
R3364:3, 5552:5, 4907:3
There may be hope for other suicides because of the ignorance and because
Christ died for all. R5552:5
Matthew 27:9
Thirty pieces of silver -- The price of a slave. R2745:1

Equivalent to about twenty dollars of our money. R2468:2
Children of Israel -- The whole twelve tribes. C293
Matthew 27:10
Potter's field -- Burial place for strangers. R5552:3
Matthew 27:11
Art thou the King -- Realizing that Pilate would not recognize blasphemy
as a cause for death, the charge against Jesus before Pilate was a totally
different one, namely, that Jesus was a seditionist and raiser of
disturbance. R4712:3, 5570:3, 2312:6, 1809:6
Thou sayest -- He makes no response to the various charges and calumnies
which the Jewish elders and priests heaped upon him. R2313:1
Matthew 27:12
Priests and elders -- Having been rejected by them as the king. B251
Matthew 27:14
Never a word -- Jesus made no defense. He knew that the time had come
for him to die. He would not attempt to turn aside that which he knew to
be a part of the divine program for him. R5570:3, 2313:1, 575:4
The governor marvelled -- Amazed that anyone should be so indifferent to
the preservation of his own life. R2313:1, 1810:1
Matthew 27:16
Barabbas -- A highway robber. R5571:2

He evidently thought that, because Barabbas was so undesirable a person to
have at liberty, the Jews would finally conclude that of the two they
would prefer to have Jesus at liberty rather than Barabbas. R2313:2
Matthew 27:18
For envy -- Typified by the envy of Joseph's brethren. R3971:4

Because he and his teachings were having more influence with the common
people than could be exercised by the chief priests and scribes. R4712:6,
2316:2
Realizing their own inferiority and unfitness to be the leaders, they
could not brook the appearance of a rival of superior talents and ability.
R1964:1
Matthew 27:19
His wife -- Possibly one of the Lord's followers. R3896:4*
Matthew 27:21
They said, Barabbas -- The world's natural choice is for one of

murderous spirit rather than a saint. R3896:2
Religious fanaticism is the deepest, wickedest and most conscienceless of
hatreds. R2313:2
Matthew 27:22
They all say -- At the close of Jesus' ministry only about 500 worthy
ones had been found. Most Israelites were not ready to be used of God in
the blessing of the other nations. R4593:5
Three classes of criminals come to view: the Pharisaical class, who for
envy delivered him up; the Judas class, hirelings, ready to sell their
services for bribes; and the cold-blooded menials, who watch on with
complacency and indifference. R1964:1-4
Let him be crucified -- The most ignominious and cruel method of death,
so that his memory should be ever covered with infamy. R1810:4
Matthew 27:23
What evil -- Answering "No" to their cry. R2313:2

But they cried -- Judas loved money, and these loved the approval of the
priests and rulers and wanted to be on the popular side. R1964:2
Let him be crucified -- The Jewish aristocracy and democracy united in
demonstration of untruth that "The voice of the people is the voice of
God." R3369:5
Matthew 27:24
A tumult was made -- As a representative and mouthpiece for the Roman

empire, Pilate was required to preserve peace at any cost. R2313:2
And washed his hands -- As a symbol of his own disagreement with the
death-decree which they were compelling him to render. R2786:3
To indicate his dissent and clearing himself from responsibility. R3896:5
I am innocent -- Manifesting far greater concern than the Papacy would
have done under similar circumstances. B330, 331
Remembering that Pilate was neither a Jew nor a Christian, but a heathen
man, we cannot condemn him as others have done, but commend him as a man
who loved justice. R2786:4
This just person -- While the world blamed Jesus, yet in the private
counsels they recognized the fact that he was harmless. R4797:1
See ye to it -- Greek, optomai, attend ye to it. R140:6
It was policy that he rule justly, but justice was to be sacrificed at any
time in the interests of the Roman Empire. R5570:2
Look to yourselves, that you are likewise free from blood-guiltiness.
R2313:4
Matthew 27:25
His blood be on us -- The full responsibility of what followed was left

with the Jews. R3896:6, 5721:1; Q356:1
The curse of blindness came as requested. D571
The Lord took them at their word. OV77:T
Alas! poor Jews! With what judgment you judge, you have been judged.
R2313:4
The curse which they brought upon their own heads remains with them. They
can only escape the curse of the Law and this additional curse by having
the merit of Christ's blood implied to them. R3062:3
There is no way to escape from your self- pronounced curse of his blood,
except by accepting his blood. R2313:4
The better educated Pharisees and Priests who incited the multitude had
more responsibility, and Judas was the real crucifier because of his
knowledge and willfulness. R4909:2
And on our children -- And they also expressed the desire that their
posterity should bear it. Q356:1; R5721:1
It has been so! They have since suffered as aliens from God, without
prophet, priest, sin- offerings or Atonement Days. R5571:4
The turning point of Israel's history. OV77:T
Matthew 27:26
Scourged Jesus -- Possibly hoping that the scourging would satisfy his
adversaries' thirst for blood. R3369:1
He delivered him -- Influenced more by considerations of policy than of
principle, and willing to satisfy the people. R1810:4
The Roman government expected their governors to be absolutely just in
respect to Roman citizens; dealings with others were to be conciliatory.
PD69/83
Matthew 27:28
They stripped him -- "He shall see of the travail of his soul and shall
be satisfied." (Isa. 53:11) E52
Matthew 27:29
Mocked him -- The trials, sufferings and contradictions which our Lord
endured, while no part of our ransom-price, were expedient in the Father's
judgment as being a part of his testing. R2316:3
Crown of thorns -- They jeered him upon his claim to kingship. R2786:5
Reed in his right hand -- Without a surmise that he really was the one
to whose scepter every knee shall bow. (Phil. 2:10) R2786:5
Matthew 27:30
They spit upon him -- "I hid not my face from shame and spitting." (Isa.
50:6) E52
And smote him -- "I gave my back to the smiters and my cheeks to them
that plucked off the hair." (Isa. 50:6) E52
Matthew 27:32
A man of Cyrene -- Where now were Peter, James and John! R3369:6
To bear his cross -- The portion of it which dragged. R3369:6
Because, according to tradition, our Lord had been compelled to carry the
cross and fainted under it. E123
The opportunity to bear the cross for the members of the Lord's body is
still with us. R2787:1, 3370:1
The Lord will send the aid necessary, even though, as in this case, it be
impressed. R3370:1
Matthew 27:33
Golgotha -- In Latin, Calvary. R3900:6, 3370:2

Place of a skull -- Here, in the perpendicular face of a limestone
knoll, is the most remarkable likeness to a skull. R3900:6, 3370:2, 1394:6
Matthew 27:34
Mingled with gall -- To deaden the pain. R3370:2, 3901:1

Not as an injury, but as a kindness. It is supposed that the mixture would
assuage thirst to some degree. R3562:6
Tasted thereof -- As a token of his appreciation for the kindness
expressed by it. R3370:2, 3901:1
He would not drink -- Preferring to experience the full measure of the
pain and suffering which the Father's wisdom and love and justice had
prepared for him. R3370:2, 3901:1, 2473:3
Matthew 27:35
Parted his garments -- The clothing in which Jesus appeared after his
resurrection was as specially created for the occasion as was the body in
which he appeared. B128
The usual dress of a Jew consisted of five parts: the head dress, the
shoes, the outer garment or toga, the girdle (one part for each of the
soldiers) and the tunic. R3562:4
Some in Christendom are willing to divide among themselves day by day the
blessings and advantages which have come through his death, but without
appreciation or gratitude. R3562:4
Upon my vesture -- His seamless robe, beautifully representing his own
personal perfection; probably a gift from one of the noble women mentioned
as being among his friends. R2316:1
Cast lots -- For the "chilton," the tunic or coat; a kind of shirt
fitting somewhat loosely and reaching from the neck to the ankles. R3562:4
Matthew 27:36
And sitting down -- Presuming to have no responsibility in the matter,

caring nothing for the honor of justice or the vindication of right.
R1964:2
They watched him there -- Depravity of fallen human nature was
strikingly illustrated in those who witnessed the Lord's many wonderful
works, and then his unresisting sacrifice for our sins--they were cold,
without appreciation. R2315:6
Resembling, to a considerable degree, the whole of Christendom who have
heard of Jesus and are still totally unmoved, unconcerned, without
thankfulness or appreciation. R3562:4, 2316:2
There are still the cruel cold-blooded menials who, with complacency and
indifference, and yet with curiosity, sit down and watch the sufferings of
the body, and wonder what will happen next. R1964:6
God of Heaven! forbid that I should gaze with pitiless eye on a suffering
child of thine. R5837:6*
Instead of falling at his feet and exclaiming, "My Lord and my Redeemer."
Many in our day similarly view the Lord's sufferings with calm
indifference. R2316:1
Matthew 27:37
Set up over his head -- The crime of each culprit was, by law, inscribed
over his head. R4713:5
His accusation written -- In three languages--Hebrew, Greek and Latin.
R3562:2
KING OF THE JEWS -- Little did Pilate think that this was the true title
of the wonderful man Christ Jesus whom they caused to be put to death.
R2316:2
Matthew 27:38
Two thieves -- Crucified as an evildoer. R2316:2

From the standpoint of the priests and Pharisees, the Lord's crucifixion
with the two thieves was specially desirable; it would help to keep the
people from thinking of him as a martyr. R3561:6
Every noble or pure man or woman, prizing purity in his own heart, would
find it specially detestable to be so misunderstood as to be numbered with
transgressors. R3561:5
Matthew 27:39
They that passed by -- Some of them had probably seen his "many
wonderful works"; yet when they saw the tide turn against him, they seem
to have been easily swayed. R2316:3
Reviled him -- "As he was so are are we in this world." (1 John 4:17)
R2316:5
Wagging their heads -- "We did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and
afflicted." (Isa. 53:4) R2316:5
Matthew 27:40
The temple -- The true Church. T70

In three days -- The fifth, sixth and seventh thousand-year days. R3375:2
Come down -- Weakened by his sufferings, tortured by his merciless
enemies, hanging helpless between heaven and earth, Satan challenged him
to demonstrate his deity by descending from the cross. R5848:2*
Matthew 27:42
He cannot save -- He could have saved himself. (Matt. 26:53) R5195:4

How little they knew that it was necessary for the Son of Man to suffer
these things to enter into his glory. R2316:4
If Jesus had saved himself, he could not have been the Savior of the
world. R5578:1
King of Israel -- Synonymous with the term "King of the Jews" (verse
37). R2085:1
The whole twelve tribes of Israel. C293
Come down -- We are so glad he did not come down and leave us in our
sins. R3370:6
Matthew 27:44
The thieves also -- The only little word of sympathy, however, that he
received on this occasion, so far as the record goes, came later from one
of these thieves. R2316:6
Matthew 27:45
From the sixth hour -- Nine o'clock in the morning, the hour of the
morning daily sacrifice. R2316:6
There was darkness -- It was fitting that nature should veil her glories
before such a scene. There was darkness, not dense darkness, but, simply,
darkness. R2316:6
It must have been supernaturally dark for, as it was the full moon, a
solar eclipse could have lasted but a few minutes at the most. R2316:6,
1816:4
Picturing the temporary triumph of the power of darkness over him who was
the light of the world. R3902:6
Typifying the alienation from God which came upon the Jewish people as a
result of crucifying the Lord. R1816:4
Unto the ninth hour -- Three o'clock in the afternoon, the time of the
offering of the evening sacrifice, the time when Christ died. R2316:6
Matthew 27:46
My God, my God -- Jesus did not claim to be the Father, but the Son of
God. R5578:5
The wail of a breaking heart. R84:2*
It is claimed that he died of a literally broken heart, evidenced by the
fact that both blood and water proceeded from the spear-wound inflicted
shortly after his death. R2316:6; E123
Why -- What have I done that I should be denied fellowship with thee?
R4683:5
Hast thou forsaken me -- An actual withdrawal of the Father's favor and
communion, a necessary part of the Lord's suffering as a sin-bearer. The
penalty of Adam's transgression was not only death, but additionally
separation or alienation from God. R2317:1
He had borne the contradiction of sinners, Peter's denial, and the fact
that all his disciples fled; but the Father's spirit of fellowship
withdrawn was more than he could bear. R2316:6
He bore the sinner's penalty in all particulars. CR392:5; E128
It was necessary that the Father should hide himself from him as though he
had been the sinner. R4713:5, 5578:5, 4683:5, 3903:1
That was the most terrible moment of all his experiences. CR392:5; R4713:5
Such a dark moment might be permitted to even the most worthy follower of
the Lamb. F143
The language of real, not pro forma, agony. E94
Matthew 27:48
Gave him to drink -- Doubtless with a fever raging, such as would be

induced by the crucifixion, he had been thirsting for quite a while.
R3562:6
Matthew 27:49
Let be -- It is evident, from these words, that Christ's last prayer was
heard even by his enemies. R2252:1
Matthew 27:50
When he had cried -- Matthew does not record the words, but we have them
from Luke and John, "It is finished! Father, into thy hands I commend my
spirit." R2317:2
Yielded up the ghost -- Literally, dismissed his spirit; that is, drew
his last breath, or ceased to live; expired. R700:4, 3903:4
That is, the spirit. Not his spirit body, for at this time he had no
spirit body. R2317:4
Matthew 27:51
Veil of the temple -- 60 feet long, 30 feet wide and about four inches
thick. R3371:2, 2788:4
Was rent in twain -- Representing the opening of the way between the
spirit-begotten condition and heaven itself. R3371:2
Matthew 27:52
And the graves -- There are serious reasons for doubting the genuineness
of this verse and the following; but a portion of it, at least, appears in
the oldest Greek manuscripts yet discovered. R1509:3, 2811:6
Of the saints -- Not the ancient worthies or the saints of the Gospel
church. R2811:5, 833:2
Which slept arose -- The very most that could have taken place at that
time would have been that some might have been awakened in just the same
sense that Lazarus was awakened. Q289:2; R2811:5, 1509:6, 833:2
The word "sleep" used instead of the word "death." R2197:6
Matthew 27:53
Came out of the graves -- The narrative does not call it a resurrection;
it merely says that they came out of their graves, as Lazarus did. R833:2
His resurrection -- The Greek word is not anastasis, but egersis, an
unusual word for resurrection, signifying resurgence or re-animation.
R1509:3; F703
Matthew 27:54
The centurion -- All three centurions mentioned in the New Testament

(Luke 7:2; Acts 10:1) were reverential. R3755:4
Matthew 27:55
Ministering unto him -- Providing for the physical wants of Jesus and
the twelve. Christ never solicited alms. F286
Matthew 27:57
A rich man -- "He made his grave with the wicked [the sinful human race]
and with the rich [in the tomb of the rich man, Joseph of Arimathea] in
his death." (Isa. 53:7,9) R1394:4, 1360:1
Matthew 27:60
His own new tomb -- Which contained no other corpses; hence, there could
be no question respecting the body of Christ and its burial. R2476:2,
3903:3
A great stone -- This was not a large boulder, but was shaped like a
wheel, like a large grindstone rolling in a groove. R4713:6
Matthew 27:62
The next day -- Saturday morning. R4212:5*
Matthew 27:64
Be made sure -- The evil suspicions of the religious leaders were

overruled by the Lord for good, and became a testimony of the truth and an
assistance to faith on the part of believers. R2318:1
Matthew 27:65
Ye have a watch -- Giving the chief priests the privilege of hiring some
of the soldiers as watchmen, much the same as anyone today can employ and
pay a policeman for extra service as a watchman. R2476:3
Matthew 27:66
Sealing the stone -- Rendering it secure against intrusion. E246

Setting a watch -- Saturday night. R4212:5*
Matthew 28
Matthew 28:1
End of the sabbath -- Hindered from coming the previous day because it
was the Jewish Sabbath, the day now known as Saturday, the seventh day of
the week. R2477:5
As it began to dawn -- How great the reward of these devoted women--last
at the cross and first at the sepulcher. R1816:6
Improving the very earliest opportunity to honor him whom they so loved.
R1505:5
The same is true of the resurrection of the Church, in the dawn of this
great seventh day. R92:1*
"God shall help her and that right early." (Psa. 46:5) R3375:3
The first day -- Sunday. This day is reckoned as the third day and night
which Christ spent in the tomb. R4212:5*, 3903:6, 3375:1
Symbolizing a new beginning, a new dispensation. Q366:2
Typifying the beginning of the seventh thousand-year day when the Church
shall be raised. "Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it
up." (John 2:19) R3375:1-3
Mary Magdalene -- Out of whom Jesus had cast seven demons and who, from
thenceforth, became one of our Lord's most earnest followers. She had much
forgiven her, she loved much, and her love had brought her early to the
sepulcher. R3375:6
Woman's love and tenderness, specially endearing charms of the sex, are
well illustrated in this incident. They came with no thought of the
resurrection, but to embalm his body more elaborately than they had had
time for previously. R2477:5, 2317:3
Seemingly the Lord recognized that women can exercise faith more readily
than can men, and here he used them as his servants and mouthpieces to
prepare his disciples. R3905:2, 2317:3
And the other Mary -- It does not appear that they came together, but
rather that Mary Magdalene was first to arrive. R2477:5
Matthew 28:2
Rolled back the stone -- Not necessary to our Lord's resurrection,

because the body which he has now is no more his former body of flesh than
that body of flesh was his former spirit body. R2318:2
In their eagerness, they forgot the great obstacle of the stone; but the
sweet incense of their devotion arose to heaven, and God sent his angel to
remove the obstacle. R1816:6
Matthew 28:3
Like lightning -- The angel appeared in dazzling brightness, that he

might not be mistaken for a man. R4714:1
Spirit beings are glorious in their normal conditions. A183; R579:1;
HG25:5, 28:5
Matthew 28:4
Became as dead men -- Almost swooned or fainted; but, recovering,

hastened from the spot to make their report to the chief priests, at whose
instance they had been appointed to this service. R3375:4
Matthew 28:5
Fear not ye -- The angel, so terrible to those out of harmony with the
Lord, spoke graciously to those who were his friends. R3905:1
Matthew 28:6
He is not here -- The removal of the crucified body from the tomb was
necessary to establish, in the minds of the disciples, the fact of his
resurrection; had it remained, it would have been an insurmountable
barrier to their faith. R1817:4
It is not for us to say what became of the natural body of Jesus. God has
not revealed particulars respecting it, except that it did not corrupt.
Perhaps it is yet to be produced by the Lord as evidence of the truth of
the whole transaction. R3376:6
He is risen -- The one that was raised from the dead was the
spirit-begotten new creature. R5158:1
The doctrine of the resurrection of the dead is peculiar to the Jewish and
Christian religions. R3903:5
As it was necessary to know that Christ died before we could believe in
him as our Redeemer; so it was necessary to believe that he rose again, so
that he might be our justifier. R3903:2
The account proves three things: (1) the fact of the resurrection; (2) the
Lord's change of nature in the resurrection; and (3) his personal identity
notwithstanding the change of nature. R1816:5
Matthew 28:8
They departed quickly -- Though fearful and surprised when they received
the angel's message that the Lord was risen, yet they grasped the fact by
"intuitive" faith. R2317:3
Matthew 28:9
And as they -- With the exception of Mary Magdalene, who separated

herself from them to go and tell Peter and John. B112
Jesus met them -- His second appearance after his resurrection. R3905:3
Appearing first to Mary, who seems to have been a woman full of faith as
well as full of zeal, and one whose word would have influence upon the
apostles. R2808:2
Possibly the same appearance as that recorded in John 20:14. R2802:3
He appeared as a man, but under varying conditions, showing that he was
not bound by the limitations of the human nature. R3904:2
Had our Lord appeared in his real body, as to Paul, the effect would have
been less favorable; he therefore adopted the method used by angels sent
on special missions to men. R2318:5
All hail -- In the Greek, the usual salutation, practically signifying,
Rejoice! R3375:6
Held him by his feet -- Had he appeared in the body crucified, they
would certainly have seen the prints of the nails in his feet. R2801:5
His words, "Touch me not [don't hold on], for I am not yet ascended to my
Father and to your Father, to my God and to your God" (John 20:17), were
doubtless uttered at this time. R2317:3
We are not to assume that we are merely to hug the truth to our own
hearts, but are to remember that it is for others also. R3375:6
And worshipped him -- It is undoubtedly proper enough for us to address
petitions to our Redeemer and Advocate. R1410:2
Matthew 28:10
Be not afraid -- Do not hold me as though fearful you will never see me
any more. R2317:6
Tell my brethren -- After we have found the Lord, we have a great duty
toward the brethren. R3375:6
Into Galilee -- Their home. B112
Shall they see me -- It was necessary that the twelve apostles should be
able to bear witness to the fact that Jesus had risen from the dead.
R5579:2
Matthew 28:11
When they were going -- Having the true love which manifests itself in
obedience, Mary immediately undertook the mission assigned her. R2478:3
An indication that, while never using women in the public preaching of the
Gospel, yet they have a place in the less public mission in connection
with the promulgation of the Gospel. R2316:1
Matthew 28:13
While we slept -- How foolish would be the testimony of men who would
say what took place while they slept! R3375:4
Matthew 28:14
And secure you -- The assurance of protection, security against the

ordinary penalty for a Roman soldier sleeping while on duty. R3375:4
Matthew 28:15
Until this day -- Up to the date of writing Matthew's gospel, which is

supposed to have been written some nine years after the event. R3375:4
Matthew 28:16
The eleven disciples -- Manifesting Jesus' particular selection of them.

F214
The apostles were the special witnesses of the Lord's resurrection,
although he was seen by others. R1522:5; F214
Went away -- Quite probably three weeks intervened without the slightest
communication. Meantime the apostles had re-engaged in the fishing
business. R3905:4, 3377:1, 2809:1
Into Galilee -- Perhaps remembering the message sent to them by the
women (verse 10), that he would go before them into Galilee and meet them
there. R3377:1
Most of our Lord's ministry was spent in Galilee, and the majority of
believers were Galileans. R3376:1
Appointed them -- Hence there was an opportunity for all the deeply
interested ones to be gathered together. (Article specifies 107
individually, plus others). R2808:6
Matthew 28:17
When they saw him -- Gradually they were taught the fact of our Lord's
resurrection, that he was no longer dead, but alive; and that he was
changed, no longer "the man Christ Jesus." R2809:1
The promise to us now is that we shall see him as he is--not as he
was--because we shall be changed, that we may be made like him. R4185:5,
2318:6, 1817:5
But some doubted -- An evidence of the candor of the Evangelist's
record; showing, too, that the Lord's followers were not over-credulous,
but disposed to sift and weigh the evidence. R2809:3
Some of the five hundred brethren, probably none of the disciples. R2809:3
It was for the convincing of such waverers that Jesus remained during the
forty days. R5587:5
Matthew 28:18
And Jesus came -- His eighth appearance after his resurrection. R3905:4
According to our reckoning, the sixth occasion. R2808:3
It was probably at this time that he appeared to the five hundred brethren
mentioned by Paul. (1 Cor. 15:6) R2808:3
A new organism, but the same being; not flesh, but spirit; not weak, but
powerful; not corruptible, but incorruptible; not dishonored, but honored.
R1692:1
All power -- Authority. F397; R5587:5
Physical and spiritual. R61:5*
As the agent and representative of Jehovah. E59
Over angels and men, the dead and living alike. R43:5*
In itself a proof that Jesus is no longer human. B111
If the Lord is now merely still a man, he is still "lower than the
angels." (Heb. 2:9) R5223:1
Including a knowledge of the times and seasons of the divine plan; also
intuitive knowledge. R2082:5, 5922:6
He had not lost anything, but had gained much in passing into death and
then out of it. R5625:5
Not that the Father had abdicated or surrendered any of his own power or
authority; rather, the Father is always excepted. (1 Cor. 15:27) R2809:4
"He is Lord of all"--next to the Father, for "the head of Christ is God."
(1 Cor. 11:3) R296:3
Although Jehovah is the head of Christ, we see him delighting to honor the
Son, making him in turn the head of all principality and power. (Col.
2:10; 1:16; Eph. 1:10--Diaglott) R1550:1
"It pleased the Father that in him [the Son] should all fulness
dwell"--"the fulness of the Godhead bodily" (Col. 1:19; 2:9)--so that all
God does is through Christ, and all Christ does is by the power of the
Father. R27:2*
Not that our Lord could set aside, overrule or violate any feature of the
divine law and plan. R2809:4
Nothing should be done except at his command. R2888:3
The title and authority promised of the Father to belong to the Messiah;
that which was once his reckonedly or prospectively was now his actually.
R2809:4
He had delegated power and prospective authority before. R810:1
His human nature, when sacrificed, could do nothing more; but the new
nature, fully developed in the resurrection, has all power. R3951:6, 713:6
The might, authority or power was gained by his sacrifice, recognized of
God and declared to men by his resurrection. R810:1
Strictly speaking, it was from the moment of our Lord's resurrection that
the Father committed all judgment unto the Son. (John 5:22) F397
It is one thing to have the power, and quite another thing to use it.
HG149:5
The exercise of the power is delayed for a purpose. D621
At the time appointed, he will take unto him "his great power and reign."
(Rev. 11:17) R1352:2
To be claimed in the kingdom. Infallible laws will be strictly enforced.
That will be the strictest government the world has ever known; absolutely
no liberty will be granted to do wrong. R1163:6
Eventually all things shall be subdued under him. R1269:6
Consequently, it is only since his resurrection that he could be called
the Almighty, as in Rev. 1:8. R1515:1
In sharp contrast with his previous utterances: "Of my own will I can do
nothing; as I hear I speak." (John 8:28) R2318:6, 745:4
Our Lord alone was able to keep the divine law and to inherit the divine
promise. R3789:5
"The keys [power to open] death and hades." (Rev. 1:18) R485:3
The glory of Moses has been "done away" (2 Cor. 3:7), the glory of
Christ "remaineth." (2 Cor. 3:11) R1323:3*
"Let all men honor the Son even as they honor the Father." (John 5:23)
R3161:2*
Is given unto me -- Since my resurrection as a spirit being. C240; E281;
R1352:2
He rose again, qualified for the great work of the world's deliverance.
OV429:T; R1670:2
But not exercised until the Body is made perfect through suffering and
joined to the Head. D621
Not until all the members of the Church have finished their sacrifice in
death--then will the Christ be fully empowered for the great subsequent
work of restoring all things. C240
He had not this power and authority previously, during his earthly
ministry. Now he was no longer under human limitations, or under the
limitations of the death covenant. R5567:6
Though he had always occupied the place of honor in the heavenly courts,
it was not until his obedience had been tested in the changing of his
nature to a man, and in providing a ransom, that he received his present
unexcellable glory and honor. R1514:6
Illustrated by the honor and distinction of Joseph being seated next to
Pharaoh. R2888:2
In heaven and in earth -- Full authority in respect to both heavenly and
earthly things; among spiritual as well as among human beings. R5587:5,6;
A289
"That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven and
things in earth." (Phil. 2:10) A289; R5587:6
Matthew 28:19
Go ye -- Now that the Father has accepted the work finished at Calvary
and recognized me as the Messiah. R2809:5
Primarily the eleven apostles, but subsequently it included St. Paul, who
took the place of Judas. They had no successors; they are with us yet.
R5588:1
All true disciples, fully consecrated, are authorized to preach the Gospel
in any and every way, publicly or privately, by word, pen or printed page.
R1720:1
Each royal priest is the peer of each other one in authority and dignity
of priesthood; though in talents, intelligence, etc., and therefore in
fitness, they are not all equals. R1137:4
Some stewards do not quickly enough note talents which might be utilized
in the Lord's service. R1047:5
The commission divides itself into three parts: (1) make disciples of all
nations; (2) baptize them; and (3) teach them. R2809:5
Any neglect of this commission and its order of procedure means
comparative failure. R2810:1
When the dragnet (Matt. 13:47) is ordered ashore, this commission should
be understood to be at an end. C215
Similarly today, we are following what we believe to be the direction of
the holy Spirit in sending forth the pilgrims to proclaim the good
tidings. R4360:4
Satan perverts the commission: first, making it mean the conversion of the
world; second, destroying the real idea of baptism; third, confusing the
matter of discipling; fourth, by making them think this is all that is
needed, downgrading teaching; fifth, by misrepresenting the Apostle's
statement: "Ye have no need that any man teach you." (1 John 2:20,27)
R2810:5
Therefore -- Their commission to go and spread the truth of his being
their Messiah was based on the fact that the Father had accepted his work,
finished at Calvary. R2809:5
Omit, not in the oldest manuscripts. R3004:3
And teach -- A different Greek word than in verse 20; this word
signifies proselyting or making disciples of. R2809:5, 5588:2, 4714:5,
4360:4; Q546:4
Not to make the nations disciples, but to gather out of all nations those
willing to be disciples of Christ. R5588:2, 4786:4, 4714:5, 2809:5; Q546:4
First, informing those who have ears to hear that they are sinners through
the fall, but that God has made a provision for their rescue. R2810:2; F447
A commission to the apostles and each member of the Church, according to
opportunity and ability, to proclaim the Gospel. R5588:1
The work of the Evangelist comes first, to make disciples. The word
"disciple" signifies pupil, in the school of Christ, in the primary
department. R2810:1
It is not necessary to preach in the usual formal manner. Preach as the
twelve disciples preached, by the wayside or wherever you find a hearing
ear. If you lack talent for preparing a discourse, read forcibly and
clearly something touching the subject you consider most needful to your
hearers. R1047:5
All nations -- "This Gospel shall be preached in all the world for a
witness unto all nations." (Matt. 24:14) C215
People of all nationalities. R4360:4
You are no longer restricted to the Jews. R3200:1, 5045:4, 4786:4, 4714:5,
3004:6, 2872:1, 2319:1; Q547:T
It required very special instructions for Peter to preach to the Gentiles
also. R3005:1
The disciples seemed to understand that he meant every Israelite scattered
throughout all nations; and it was not for some years that they learned
that the Gentiles were to be fellow-heirs of the same promises. R1095:2
Gather out of all nations those willing to be disciples of Christ. R5588:2
"Ye shall be witnesses unto me, both in Jerusalem and in all Judea and in
Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth." (Acts 1:8) R3005:1
It is the will of God that the Gospel should be preached everywhere.
R2141:5
To the less degraded first, and to the more degraded later. R1545:6
The "Gospel of the Kingdom" is clearly set forth in the Scriptures, which
are now published in all languages (not dialects) of the earth. R2872:2
This permission to disciple people of all nations did not begin until
3-1/2 years later. R4714:5
Not a command to convert the world. R4714:5, 3004:3, 2872:1, 2809:5
"Nevertheless, when the Son of man cometh, shall he find the faith on the
earth?" (Luke 18:8) R2809:6
Baptizing -- Immersing, the correct translation and the original method
of baptism, as acknowledged by many authorities. F453, 454
The outward symbol by which believers were to confess him. R1540:3
Water baptism is only a picture of the true; they are to be thoroughly
immersed into the name of Christ. R5588:4
"Know ye not that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were
baptized into his death?" (Rom. 6:3) F445, 446
All authorized to teach are equally authorized to baptize. That includes
every follower of Christ, not excluding females, only that modesty
indicates that they should avoid such public services except in rare
necessary cases. R1541:4
All baptized would be commissioned to perform this symbol for others; and,
if no consecrated could be found, an unconsecrated believer, or even a
worldly person or unbeliever, might do it. F454
The Lord's Supper and Baptism are the only injunctions of a symbolic
character commanded us, and they are new ones from those of the Jewish
dispensation. R1526:6; F228
Not here the Pentecostal baptism of the spirit, because it was not in the
power of the apostles thus to baptize anyone. NS54:1
Them -- Whoever you can make into a disciple, baptize him. Q547:T
Those who consecrate themselves. R2810:1,3
In the name of -- By the authority of. R2810:3; Q31:2, 33:2; F447
Into fellowship, or accord, with. R5588:4; F455
Not into the name of the Father, Son and holy Spirit; on the contrary, we
are baptized into Christ, as members of his body. (Rom. 6:3-5) R2810:3
We recommend the following words: Brother ..., in the name of the Father,
and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, by this authority, I baptize thee
into Christ. F455
The Father -- Become dead to every other principle than that which his
name represents, and be thoroughly immersed into His name of
righteousness, justice and truth. R5588:4
Does not imply three baptisms in one. The use of the three names is as if
you were using a firm name, such as Smith, Jones and Brown; all three
names would be used to show that it has the authorization of the whole
firm. Q33:2
The Divine Three--Father, Son and holy Spirit--are related to our faith in
the Creator, Redeemer and Regenerator; and this suggests the three steps
in bringing men into the divine image. R197:3*
Of the Son -- Ignoring all sectarian names, Protestant or Catholic.
R5588:4, 2810:3
To recognize his name and to be his members, his Body, his Church. R5588:4
Holy Ghost -- Holy Spirit. R5588:5; F455
Their own spirit or wills being dead, God's holy will and mind are to be
their will and purpose. R5588:5; Q31:2,6
Approved by the spirit of holiness, the spirit of God, the spirit of the
truth. Q31:2
It is proper to use the expression "holy Spirit" when performing symbolic
immersion because the Lord so instructed, and because it is the holy
influence and representative of the Father and the Son in directing the
Church into all truth. R2001:2
Matthew 28:20
Teaching them -- Instructing them regarding the divine character and

plan, the graces of the spirit and the rooting out of the spirit of
worldliness and selfishness. R2810:2
Not astronomy, geology, nor any of the vain philosophies about which the
world speculates, but "the things which I have commanded you." R5045:4,
3200:2
Observe all things -- That all men are sinners, that Christ came to give
himself a ransom, that he is the only way to life, that whosoever would
come must take up his cross, that all believers are one with him, that
every branch in him must bear fruit or be taken away, that those who trust
in him are to hope for and expect his second coming, that the ultimate end
of our hope is in a resurrection, and that love is the fulfilling of the
law. R2319:2,4
I am with you alway -- By the holy Spirit and by the Word. A89; E204;
R2455:6, 531:2
With his faithful followers, to bless, comfort, to strengthen, to
fellowship and to safeguard their highest interests, though often at the
expense of their temporal interests. R4714:5, 3166:6; B105, 203
In love and thought and care for you. B105, 203
As the Chief Messenger, or Angel of Jehovah. R5634:4
To sanctify to them their deepest distress. R5095:6
Not that he would personally be present in the world throughout the age;
rather, through the holy Spirit, the power of God. R4185:4, 2810:6
He is absent in body, yet present in spirit. R102:4*
Meaning that he would supervise the work. R2811:1
Our Lord has been with his representatives in all their labors of love and
self-denial throughout the entire age. R3166:6
Now we are not alone. We have the companionship of him who promised, "I
will never leave thee nor forsake thee." (Heb. 13:5) NS451:3
While he would be absent from his people during the age, his power,
spirit, care and love would be with them to guard their interests.
R2319:5, 1820:6
Showing that the Lord gave the great commission, not merely to the
apostles, but to all who should believe on him through their word. R2810:6
He was able to provide for them in one place as in another. R5625:4
Our Lord's statement no more signifies that he did not leave the world
than it signifies that his hearers would continue to live until the end of
the age. R2319:4
Even unto -- He did not tell us how long the age would last, nor all the
trials and difficulties which would intervene; it has been to our
advantage that he has left us in ignorance on this point. R4185:2
End of the world -- Greek, suntelia, end. R223:1*
End of the age. R5727:3, 5625:4; B105
Down to the time when the Gospel age will have accomplished its divinely
purposed mission of gathering out a sufficient number of disciples to
complete the divine purpose. R5588:5
In the end of the age, he is to be specially near and precious. R4784:2
How specially true in the end of the age, in the time of harvest, in the
time of our Lord's second presence! R3166:6
Then he would come again in a personal and official sense to exalt his
Church, establish his Kingdom, bless Israel with the New Covenant, and
thus bless all mankind. R4714:6, 2319:5
We are now down at this end of the age. CR476:1
Mark
General
Tradition has it that the garden of Gethsemane belonged to the family of
which the Apostles John and James were members, and that for this reason
the Lord and his disciples were privileged to feel themselves at home
there. St. Mark, the writer of one of the Gospels, but not one of the
apostles, is credited with having been a member of the same family. One of
the accounts of the arrest of the Master tells that amongst those who
followed after him was a young man wrapped with a sheet, and who fled
naked when some members of the band attempted to lay hold of him. That
young man, tradition says, years afterward was known as St. Mark. R4707:2
Mark's Gospel record is supposed to have been indited by Peter himself,
Mark being in a large measure Peter's amanuensis. R2469:5
See also "THE FOUR GOSPELS--GENERAL"
Mark 1
Mark 1:1
The beginning of -- In Mark there is no genealogy, for there Christ is

spoken of not as a son, but as a servant. R1046:6*
The character of Mark as a writer is chronological. R1047:4*
The gospel -- Mark is written to the Gentiles, and its theme is Christ's
ministry, his works. R1046:3*
Supposed to have been indited by Peter, Mark being Peter's amanuensis.
R2469:5
Mark 1:2
My messenger -- The messenger of Jehovah to announce Messiah. R3712:1

Throughout the entire Gospel age the Church in the flesh has been doing a
work similar to John's--announcing Messiah, not in the flesh, but the
glorified Christ, Head and Body, and the kingdom which he will set up.
R3713:1
Not "the messenger of the covenant." (Mal. 3:1) R3712:1
Mark 1:3
The voice -- Not the "Word." R2409:2

Make his paths -- Arrangements, affairs. R3683:5
Straight -- For a triumphal entry to his kingdom upon the earth. "An
highway shall be there." (Isa. 35:8) R2563:5
The Church in the flesh, the greater Elijah, will be equally unsuccessful
with that of the lesser antitype of Elijah, John the Baptizer. R2563:5
Mark 1:4
John -- John's mission was pre-eminently that of a reprover and

reformer. R4978:5
John's work at the first advent foreshadowed the closing work of the
Church at the second advent. B253
Six months older than Jesus, thus beginning his preaching six months
before Jesus' baptism. R3712:1, 562:1*
Did baptize -- John's baptism was for Jews only, who were already
recognized as typically cleansed by their Atonement day sin-offerings.
HG732:5
In the wilderness -- We are not sent forth as John was, to dwell in the
wilderness and to criticize and denounce everything and everybody. We are
to copy our Lord, not John the Baptist. R4978:5
And preach -- The preaching and baptism of John were a special call to
God's covenant people to repent of their sins and their failure as a
nation, and as individuals to live up to their covenant. R1687:3
The greater John, the Church in the flesh, has exhorted as many as have
ears to hear to repent of sin and reform their lives, that they may be
prepared for the great changes imminent in Messiah's reign. R3713:1
The baptism -- To bring the hearts of the people back into accord with
the Law that thus they might be ready for transfer from Moses to Christ.
R3712:4
Proclaiming that those who would be ready for Messiah and the Kingdom
should not only renounce sin and reform their lives, but should publicly
declare the same--symbolizing it by a baptism in water. R3712:2
Of repentance -- Repentance from recognized sin, violations of their Law
Covenant, and a typical cleansing from them, a return to a condition of
righteousness of heart, as in the day when they were all "baptized into
Moses in the sea and in the cloud." (1 Cor. 10:2) HG732:5
Not of baptism "into his death." F442
Remission of sins -- All Scriptures in support of immersion for the
remission of sins belonged to the Jews, none to the Gentiles. OV240:6;
F428, 433; R2931:3
Sins against their covenant, and their share in the sin of their nation in
rejecting and crucifying Christ. R1421:1
For the remission of avoidable sins, gross sins. The godly Jews were not
intended, nor expected, to come to John to be baptized. Q34:3
Not original sin--"Without the shedding of blood there is no remission"
(Heb. 9:22), but the sins of the Jews against the Law Covenant. R2931:3
Mark 1:5
All the land of Judea -- The prepared instruments of the Lord are
powerful in his hand. The whole nation was aroused, the expectation of the
immediate advent of the Messiah was everywhere evident. R1916:3
Multitudes confessed their sins and were baptized, but later, when they
failed to see either the King or the kingdom in earthly glory, they lapsed
into unbelief. R1688:1
Confessing their sins -- The Jews thereby coming again into harmony with
Moses, type of Christ, into whom they had all once been baptized. F432
John did not urge any to be baptized, except such as realized themselves
to be transgressors against the Law. R3712:3
Mark 1:6
John was clothed -- John's simplicity of dress indicated he was not

seeking to serve earthly or selfish interests--he had nothing, wanted
nothing, needed nothing. R3712:3
With camel's hair -- Making him conspicuous, indicating that his entire
life was devoted to the special service of the Lord. R3712:3
Adopting somewhat the manner and dress of Elijah of old, his prototype.
R3712:3, 1687:6
Did eat locusts -- Comparatively he had nothing, wanted nothing, needed
nothing. R3712:3
Mark 1:7
And preached -- For six months. R3712:1
Mark 1:8
He shall baptize you -- The baptism into death and the baptism of the
Holy Spirit are distinctly separate. F442
With the Holy Ghost -- At Pentecost, upon the Israelites indeed.
R3712:2; E290
Mark 1:9
That Jesus -- Having reached 30 years of age, manhood according to the

Law, and therefore the right time to consecrate himself as a man. A179
And was baptized -- Typifying his consecration. A179
A baptism unto entire consecration to the will of God, even unto death.
R1687:3, 3712:4
As a perfect man Jesus had something to offer as a living sacrifice to
God. His complete subjection was symbolized by his baptism. R1688:1
He sacrificed all the blessings and favors which were his under the Law
Covenant. R5090:1
Of John -- Our Lord's baptism was a new thing, totally distinct from
John's baptism. It symbolized a baptism unto death. R3712:4, 1688:1,4
Baptism is valid even though the baptizer is not of the kingdom class.
R1541:4
Mark 1:10
Out of the water -- Symbolizing the beginning of a reckonedly new life

as a reckonedly new creature. R3712:4
The heavens opened -- He began to see deep spiritual truth, began to
understand those things of which he had knowledge previously but not an
understanding. CR145:6, 95:2; R4968:3, 4970:1, 5080:6
Similarly, the deep things of God are revealed to all who follow in his
steps of consecration. R4970:1
Probably signifies that he was granted a vision of heaven, confirming his
relationship to the Father, and connecting up the interim of his
experience as a man with his prehuman experiences. R2565:5; Q547:4
And the Spirit -- There the Redeemer became the antitypical Passover
Lamb and the Bullock of the Atonement Day. There he, as the man Jesus,
died. There he was begotten of the holy Spirit and became the antitypical
priest--the Sacrificer. R4969:6
Like a dove -- A manifestation representing the invisible. E212
The messenger of divine favor. R3712:5
The emblem of peace and purity, representing the fullness of Jehovah's
Spirit of love in Jesus. E212
Not violently like lightning, but gently like a dove. R3296:6
John the Baptist alone witnessed the descent of the Spirit upon our Lord.
E212; R3712:5
Descending upon him -- Thus beginning the Gospel age or Spirit
dispensation. A224
Giving him the earnest of his inheritance (Eph. 1:14) of the divine
nature. A179
Anointing him: Jesus was not the Messiah, the Christ, until his baptism.
B66; T27, 37
The same anointing, the same baptism, is promised to all who follow in his
footsteps. R1688:4
"After the baptism which John preached; How God anointed Jesus." (Acts
10:37, 38) B66
Mark 1:11
My beloved Son -- Jesus was the first son of God after Adam. R5623:5
John the Baptist alone witnessed the testimony of our Lord's relationship
to God. R3712:5
Mark 1:12
And immediately -- Special trials follow consecration. R3296:3, 4970:1

The Spirit -- He was first of all pressed of the spirit (his own spirit
or mind) to go apart for awhile and to study out afresh the covenant he
had just made. R4970:3, 3716:1, 3297:2
His own spirit, his own new mind. Thus, it is our new minds, the result of
full consecration to the Lord, that lead us into temptations, trials and
difficulties. R3716:1
Driveth -- We should never voluntarily go into temptation, but knowing
our weakness, should seek to avoid it. R3715:6
Him -- Jesus, not God. "For God tempteth not, neither is tempted of
any." (Jas. 1:13) R370:2
Into the wilderness -- Away from every friend and acquaintance and
distracting thing. R3297:3
That he might study the divine Word, treasured in a perfect memory, and
now fully intelligible by the power of the Spirit. "The natural man
receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God." (1Cor. 2:14)
R3297:2,3, 5054:2, 3716:4
Mark 1:13
In the wilderness -- That he might understand the will of God. R5054:2

Forty days -- Doubtless spent in meditation and prayer, our Lord being
anxious to do the Father's will in the Father's way. R3716:4
To confer with the Father; to hear and see in the prophecies the great
work mapped out for him. R3297:3
Studying carefully the types of the Passover Lamb, the Day of Atonement
sacrifices, the Jubilees, that he would be lifted up as a brazen serpent,
led as a lamb to the slaughter, be despised and rejected of men, be cut
off not for his own sins, but for the sins of the world. R3716:5,6, 4970:1
He found it necessary, before attempting to serve God, to study to show
himself approved. (2 Tim. 2:15) R3717:1
Ministered unto him -- Strengthened him, revived him. R4970:6
From the moment of our positive resistance of temptation and positive
standing up for the Lord, we acquire great helps and assistances by unseen
powers. R3300:4
Mark 1:14
Now -- Estimated at six months to a year after his baptism. R2245:2

After that John -- John's work at the first advent foreshadowed the
closing work of the Church at the second advent. B253
Preaching the gospel -- Showing the overlapping of the ages--even so the
Gospel age and the age of restitution will lap a little. HG55:5
Kingdom of God -- An interchangeable expression with "Kingdom of
heaven." (Matt. 4:17) R396:6
The Millennial age. HG315:3
Mark 1:15
And saying -- The first three and a half years of the Jewish harvest
had, as its special test, time, and the fact of the Messiah's presence--a
parallel to the Gospel harvest. B236
The time -- Greek: kairos; a fixed time, as in "Times of the Gentiles."
(Luke 21:24) B78
The foreordained time when the offer of the kingdom would be made to the
Jewish nation had arrived. R4969:1
The 69 weeks of Daniel's prophecy. (Dan. 9:24-27) R3630:2, 748:3
But when John asked if Jesus was the Messiah, Jesus did not say that we
are living in the beginning of the seventieth week of Daniel's prophecy,
but referred him to the "signs" of his work. (Matt. 12:3-6) R629:2
God's times and seasons are important features of his plan. B25
Is fulfilled -- The Deliverer has come. B236
"All things are now ready." (Luke 14:17) R1957:3
Our God is a God of order. Everything God does is in accordance with a
definitely pre-arranged plan, and the times and seasons are no
insignificant part of that plan. B25; R598:3
Is at hand -- The Deliverer has come. B236
Believe the -- Whoever believed this message recognized Jesus as the
"Sent of God," the Messiah, who, in God's due time, will be the King of
Israel and the monarch of the earth. R4969:1
Gospel -- Good news. R887:1, 4594:3, 1957:3
The word "Gospel" means "good tidings," as the angel preaches it: "Behold,
I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be unto all people."
(Luke 2:10) HG190:5
The good news of the feast now ready. (Luke 14:15-24) R1957:3
Mark 1:16
Simon and Andrew -- Though natives of Bethsaida, they evidently settled

in Capernaum, perhaps because larger and more favorable to their business.
R3309:1
Casting a net -- Our Lord called men who were not idlers. R2246:1
They were fishers -- The Lord's invitations have been chiefly to those
in the humbler walks of life. R3720:5; F210
However able they were as men, they lacked the polish or education which
people were accustomed to expect in religious teachers. R4969:3
Mark 1:17
Come ye after me -- Called from amongst the "disciples" or general

followers to become associates in the ministry of the Gospel. F210
Fishers of men -- Spiritual fishing, like natural fishing, requires
energy, tact, proper bait, and that the fisherman keep himself out of
sight. Fish are easily alarmed when they find that anyone wishes to take
them. R3308:3
"The kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and
gathered of every kind." (Matt. 13:47) C214
Mark 1:18
Forsook their nets -- Promptly leaving all to follow him. R1521:2; F210
Forsook their earthly all for the prospect of sharing with Messiah in his
kingdom. R4969:4
The twelve who forsook all were called from amongst the general followers
who espoused the Lord's cause without leaving their daily avocations. F210
Evidently retaining some sort of interest in them, however, as they had no
difficulty in re-embarking in the fishing business after our Lord's death.
R3308:2
Mark 1:20
And went after him -- The boats and implements were not abandoned, but left
in the care of associates, taking the necessary time to make proper
arrangements. R3308:2, 3720:6
The same is true of us: we have duties and responsibilities which cannot
be abruptly cast aside and ignored. R3721:1
The important thing decided at the moment, positively and permanently, was
that they accepted the Lord's invitation. R3721:1
Mark 1:21
And they went -- More than a year had elapsed since Jesus began his
ministry. R3727:4
Into Capernaum -- Jesus made Capernaum his home and the center of his
work in Galilee for a considerable time. R2581:2
And straightway -- At once, indicating our Lord's strict attention to
the Father's business. R2581:3
On the sabbath day -- Type of the seventh thousand-year day. B40
Into the synagogue -- Jewish synagogues were very liberally governed,
and afforded an opportunity for nearly everyone of reverent manner to
present his views respecting the law and the prophets. R3726:3, 3309:1,
2581:3, 1722:1
This greater liberty was more favorable to the truth than the present
circumscribed methods of Christendom. R3309:1, 2581:3
While jealously guarding against the overthrowing of faith by those who
reject the Word of God, purity of truth would be greatly stimulated by
full liberty of discussion of the meaning of the Scriptures in a reverent
manner. R3309:1
Probably built by the Roman centurion, whose servant Jesus had healed.
(Luke 7:5) R2581:2
Recently exhumed--a substantial structure with walls ten feet thick,
seventy-four feet long and fifty-six feet wide. R2581:2
And taught -- The Jewish synagogues afforded much greater freedom for
presentation of the truth than do the churches today. R3909:1, 3726:3,
2581:3, 1722:1
Mark 1:22
Were astonished -- Both at the things which he taught, and at the manner
in which he presented them. R2581:3
Never imagine that you can overturn an old lie without causing a terrible
confusion and alarm among those not of the truth who are living under it,
as illustrated by the confusion and scurrying of insects when you overturn
a big, flat stone which had been in place for years. R3860:3*
He taught them -- Our Lord's discourses were along the lines of divine
revelations--the Law and the prophets, and the fulfillment of these.
Similarly, the teachings of the Lord's representatives should not be on
human speculations and philosophies, but on the Word of God. R3726:5
As one that had authority -- As a master who thoroughly understood his
subject. R3726:3; OV159:1
Jesus had a thorough grasp of the Word of God, and his applications and
interpretations therefore were convincing to his hearers. R4969:5, 2581:3
Not as the scribes -- The Doctors of the Law. OV159:1
The Jewish scribes then, as today, were evidently quite perfunctory and
quite unable to give the people any understanding of the Law and the
prophecies. R4969:5, 3726:3
The scribes and Pharisees haggled over the Scriptures, guessing and
confusing their meaning, mystifying the people. R3726:3, 4969:5
Mark 1:23
In their synagogue -- The devil went to church then, as he not

infrequently does now, and he was as opposed to having the truth preached
then as he is now. R3309:2
A man -- We fully believe that fully one-half or more of those who are
dealt with as insane are cases of demoniacal possession--"obsession."
R3727:1, 4976:3, 3771:3, 3310:4
Today Satan, acting more skillfully than in the past, is leading on as a
scientist and is pooh-poohing suggestions that there are evil spirits, or
a Beelzebub, or a prince of demons. R3310:5
An unclean spirit -- "The angels which kept not their first estate."
(Jude 6) R3727:1, 4969:5, 3309:3
Once an holy angel, fallen from divine favor through sinful relationship
to humanity in the days of Noah. (Gen. 6:1-5) R4969:6, 3727:1, 3309:3
There are no such obsessions or possessions by holy spirits for they, like
God, recognize the individuality of each member of the race, and do not
intrude upon it. R3727:3
All who reverence God are warned against having anything to do with
mediums, seances and every form of spirit communications as being of these
demons--Satanic. R3726:1, 2582:1
Styled "unclean spirits" because they eventually reveal their true
characters by unchaste, impure suggestions. R4969:5, 3338:4
Our Lord's dealings with the unclean spirits show: (1) the actual personal
existence of invisible evil spirits; (2) the power, and limit of power, in
such beings; (3) that the Lord's authority and power are known and
recognized by the evil spirits. R1722:1
And he cried out -- The demon recognized Jesus and his teaching and used
the young man as his mouthpiece, his medium. R4969:5
He believed the Lord's teachings were condemnatory of himself and his
associates. R3309:3
Mark 1:24
Let us alone -- We thus infer that our Lord was explaining to the people
the origin of sin and the power of Satan and of the fallen angels in
respect to humanity. R3309:3, 2581:5
No doubt Jesus had mentioned demoniacal possession in his sermon. R2581:5,
3309:3
When the two-edged sword of truth enters, it creates a division and an
uproar. R1633:3,4
To do with thee -- What have we in common? R3772:2
Come to destroy us -- Their observation of mankind, dying on account of
sin, would lead them to surmise that death might be their portion also.
R1680:1
Manifesting the fact that the Lord's authority and power are known and
recognized by the evil spirits. R1722:4
This demon seems to have had the thought that at the coming of Messiah all
evil was to be abolished and destroyed. R3727:2
"Art thou come to destroy us before the time?" (Matt. 8:29)--implying that
the demons had some information, or premonition, that the time of the
manifestation of power through the Messiah was still future. R3727:2
Their statement does not prove that their supposition was correct. R697:1;
HG729:6
They will not be destroyed without first being given an opportunity for
repentance and reconciliation with God. R2581:6
Protesting Jesus' interference with their tormenting of the man as an
injury to their rights and liberties. R3772:1
It is common today for some to claim interference with their vested rights
and liberties when estopped from exploiting their fellow-men. R3772:2
I know thee -- We may be sure that Satan and all the fallen angels knew
the Lord and observed closely everything pertaining to his earthly life,
death and resurrection. R4068:5, 2581:6
As Satan recognized Jesus in the temptation, so all of the fallen angels
knew that the Holy One of God had become a man to redeem humanity. R3309:3
The Holy One of God -- Recognizing Jesus' mission, his holiness, and
that he was the representative of the Heavenly Father. R2581:6
His conduct toward our Lord was far more respectful than that of the
strictest sect of the Jewish church. R1680:2
While the Pharisees said, "Thou hast a devil." (John 7:20) R1680:1
Mark 1:25
Jesus rebuked him -- The Lord recognized and addressed him as a person,
thus proving the actual personal existence of invisible evil spirits.
R1722:1
As St. Paul refused to allow a young woman medium to proclaim him and
Silas servants of God (Acts 16:16-18), so Jesus refused to allow this
demon to give testimony respecting himself--even though it was
complimentary. R4969:6, 3309:4, 3122:3, 2182:1
Being unwilling to accept testimony from such a source. The Lord's people
should resent the services of any who do not give evidence of heart-union
with the Lord. R3309:4, 4969:6
Hold thy peace -- Our Lord did not deign to hold conversation with these
evil spirit beings. R2581:6
The same Greek word translated "Be still" in Mark 4:39, suggesting that
the storm there depicted may have been the work of the Adversary. R3324:4
Come out of him -- Give up your hold upon his mind and body. R3727:2
Evil spirits can do nothing except as God permits. R1722:1, 5540:2
Mark 1:26
The unclean spirit -- Thus the malignity of evil spirits is manifested.

There are no such possessions by holy spirits. R3727:3, 2582:2
Had torn him -- Caused violent convulsions, a fit; and used the man's
mouth in uttering a loud cry. R3310:3, 2582:1
The demon was not hindered from causing the man considerable torture in
going from him. Luke 4:35 says that he threw him down in the midst of the
crowd--manifesting his malignity. R3727:3
He came out -- Apparently the first illustration of our Lord's
miraculous power over disease and evil spirits. R3727:4
Mark 1:27
They were all amazed -- Not only the teachings of Jesus captivated them,
but also his power to deal with evil spirits. R4969:6
The attendants at the Capernaum synagogue were seemingly nobler than those
of Nazareth, who gnashed upon our Lord and sought to take his life. R3309:3
Mark 1:28
And immediately -- The Revised Version of this verse is preferable: "And

the report of him went out straightway everywhere in all that region of
Galilee round about." R3310:6
His fame -- Aiding greatly his ministry. R3310:6
As his fame increased, the opposition to him became more and more
pronounced. R1735:3
Mark 1:29
The synagogue -- In Capernaum. R4979:2
Mark 1:30
A fever -- One of the evangelists intimates that it was a violent form

of fever. R3310:6
How many today are being consumed with a fever of ambition, pride or
discontent? R2582:6
They tell him -- Evidently the casting out of the demon suggested to the
minds of the disciples the power of our Lord to heal diseases. R3727:4,
3310:6
Mark 1:31
She ministered -- This demonstrates that her cure was more than an
operation of the mind, which could not have restored at once the strength
lost by the fever. R3311:1, 3727:5
Instead of being weak and enervated, as is usually the case after a strong
fever, she was strong and vigorous. This demonstrates that her cure could
have been nothing short of miraculous. R3310:6
How many today, being released from spiritual fevers, arise to do
vigorously the Lord's business? R2582:6
Mark 1:32
When the sun did set -- Because it was a cooler time of day. R3311:1,
2582:2
The Sabbath, being over, made it in the eyes of the people the more proper
time to bring to Jesus the sick. R3727:5, 3311:1
All that were diseased -- Let us not seek for the loaves and fishes and
physical healing, for after all these things do the Gentiles seek; but let
us seek for spiritual health, strength and vigor. R3728:6
Mark 1:33
All the city -- Many in Capernaum were healed, and thus it was exalted
to heaven in privileges, blessings and opportunities. (Matt. 11:23) R3728:2
Mark 1:34
He healed -- Expending his own vitality. R3727:5

"Virtue (vitality, power, strength) went out of him and healed them all."
(Matt. 8:17) R3727:5
The healing of the sick was merely incidental, to attract the attention,
to assist the faith, to point him out as the finger of God. R3728:2,
4980:2, 2583:2
The miracles which Jesus and the Apostles wrought were merely with a view
to the establishment of the early church. R4979:3
He did not attempt to heal all sickness. This will be done in Messiah's
reign of a thousand years. R4980:2 No miraculous healing at the present
time is authorized by God's Word. R4979:3
Had our Lord Jesus performed none of the miracles recorded in the
Scriptures, how could we today feel the confidence, the assurance, that we
do feel respecting him? R3310:1
Illustrating the power he ultimately will use on a higher and grander
scale in the blessing of all the families of the earth. R3728:4, 2583:1,
2582:4, 1722:4
Not only to prophecy the future, but more particularly as signs,
evidences, witnesses, respecting his teachings. R2582:4
Today greater miracles witness to the truth of Christianity, such as the
opening of the eyes of understanding. R2582:5
The general healing of disease will doubtless be a prominent feature of
the work of Messiah's glorious kingdom after its establishment. R4979:5
People would be glad to be healed of disease, even if they were assured
that the cures were performed by the power of Satan himself. Thus many
false doctrines commend themselves by promises of relief from physical
ailments. R4979:3
Many that were sick -- But not all the sick of Palestine. His mission
was not to heal the sick, but to preach the Gospel. The healing of the
sick was merely incidental. R3728:2, 2582:3
There is no record of a single instance in which any of the apostles were
healed of any disease. All, or nearly all, who were healed by Jesus and
the apostles were "sinners." R4980:1, 3728:4
Suffered not the devils -- The Lord does not desire the testimony of
devils respecting himself or his plan. The same is true of all the
unregenerate. (Psa. 50:16, 17) R3727:6, 3309:4, 2582:2
Mark 1:35
He went out -- Leaving behind him in Capernaum many sick and

disappointed. R4980:4
Departed -- Jesus did not remain to increase and deepen the favorable
impression that he had made. R4979:2
He left, that those not in a proper condition of heart might forget, lose
their interest and cool their ardor, while only Israelites indeed would
continue to watch and pray for the kingdom. R3728:1
And there prayed -- The Lord frequently spent whole nights in prayer.
(Luke 5:16; 6:12; Matt. 14:23; Mark 6:46; Heb. 5:7) R1865:5
Mark 1:38
Preach there also -- Our Lord's intention was to give evidences of

divine favor to convince Israelites indeed. His mission was not to heal
the sick but to preach the Gospel. R3728:1; 2583:2
Mark 1:39
Throughout all Galilee -- His principal ministry was in Galilee. R4556:3

He must attend to the necessities and interests of the entire flock.
R3728:1
Mark 1:40
A leper -- Leprosy was regarded by the Jews as an incurable disease, and

as a type of sin. R4980:4
Mark 1:41
I will -- His prayer was answered, not because he was one of Jesus'
disciples, nor because he promised to become one of them, but because of
his exercise of faith, and in order to make of his case a testimony to the
priests that Jesus exercised a power divine. R4980:4
Mark 1:42
He was cleansed -- Because of his exercise of faith, and in order to

make of his case a testimony to the priests, that Jesus exercised a power
divine. R4980:4
Mark 1:44
Say nothing -- The testimony of his Messiahship was to be hidden from

the people for a time, but to be promptly given first to their "rulers"
who represented the Jewish church in the trial then in progress, giving
them an opportunity to receive Jesus. C168
Shew thyself -- To have the priest examine him as the Law required.
R4980:4
To the priest -- To the representative of that church-nation, as a test.
C169
Mark 1:45
Publish it much -- The result was that Jesus could not thereafter visit
the large cities because he would be overwhelmed with the number of sick
brought to him for healing. R4980:4
Mark 2
Mark 2:1
Capernaum -- Jesus' home at the time. (Matt. 4:13) R3728:3, 2583:1

It was noised -- It was soon widely known. R2583:1
In the house -- Probably Jesus' own home, but possibly that of Peter and
Andrew, though not likely. R2583:1, 3314:2
Dr. Schaff suggests that according to the Greek text this might read "at
home," instead of "in the house." R2583:1
Mark 2:2
No room -- Middle class houses at that time usually had one room only,
about 20 by 40 feet in size. R3728:3, 3314:2
Preached the word -- Doubtless respecting the kingdom of God long
promised, which he proclaimed to be nigh, even at the door. R3728:6
Probably respecting sin, its defilement and its penalty--death. R3314:2
Undoubtedly the same message delivered in Nazareth respecting the Lord's
spirit being upon him, anointing him to preach and heal. R2583:2
His chief work, healings and miracles being merely incidental. R2583:2
We note a difference between our Lord's ministry and that of the apostles.
Jesus taught mainly surface and introductory truths, the time not yet
being due for opening up the deep things of God. R1722:2
Mark 2:3
Bringing one sick -- The first business of every member of Christ, aside
from his own development, is to help others to the Redeemer. R3315:6
Of the palsy -- Paralysis. R2584:4
A broad term for any disease which would render the individual helpless,
this incident evidently being a serious case. R2583:5
Represents a condition of sin in which the individual loses his power;
helpless, with a deadness of conscience to principles of righteousness.
R2584:4
His helpless condition probably hindered him from applying to Jesus on the
day when so many of the sick at Capernaum were cured. R3728:6
Borne of four -- Similarly we can help to bring one another to the Lord,
to the truth, to the influences and benefits sure to come from contact
with Jesus or his body members. R3315:3
A large proportion of the blessing which has been bestowed upon the Lord's
people through the Gospel has come through individual and private effort.
R3315:4
Mark 2:4
Uncovered the roof -- A porch-roof, covered with tiles, which could be

removed without much difficulty. R2583:3, 4980:3, 3314:2,3
A flat roof formed by heavy timbers about two feet apart, on which were
placed slabs of either wood or stone, the whole being covered with earth
or sod. R3728:3, 3729:1
An extemporaneous device of plain peasants accustomed to opening their
roofs and letting down grain, straw and other articles, as they still do
in the East. R2583:3*
We too, in bringing friends to the Good Physician of the soul, should not
be readily stopped by impediments or obstacles. R2584:4
They let down -- Apparently without ropes. R3314:3
Using improvised ropes. R3729:1
Showing strong faith, not only in the Lord's power to heal, but also in
his gentleness and goodness in reacting to this rude intrusion. R3729:1
Mark 2:5
Saw their faith -- Faith in the Lord as the sent of God, a condition
indispensable to pardon. R3314:5
Such implicit faith, manifested by such heroic effort, could not fail to
be appreciated by the Redeemer. R4980:3
The faith of the sick man and those interested in him. R1921:2, 3314:3,
1722:5
Some are inclined to put doctrine ahead of faith and repentance, but this
will not do. R2584:5
The circumstances warrant the belief that the sick man himself exercised
the faith and prompted his friends to take the steps they did. R2583:5
He said -- Not first asking respecting his previous course in life, nor
waiting for him to express sorrow for sin. R3314:5
Our Lord was not offended by the intrusion, doubtless remembering that all
things work together for good to the Lord's people, who will accept them
thus. R2583:4
Let us learn also to overlook and forget rudeness, especially where there
is evidence of sincerity of heart, faith, good intentions. R2583:4
Thy sins -- Not original sin and its death penalty, but sins in the
plural, the man's own sins. R3730:5
Under the Law Covenant the Jews were held to account for their own
transgressions; hence, serious sickness implied serious sins. R4980:3,
3730:5
Thus Jesus showed the great difficulty afflicting the whole family is sin,
without which there would be no sickness. R3314:5
Putting the most important thing foremost: Jesus was primarily the
sin-bearer and teacher, his work of healing being secondary. R3729:1
Be forgiven thee -- Thus, Jesus declared I am the Father's special agent
and representative. R3729:2, 1921:3
Our Lord here assuming the office of the antitypical High Priest. R2584:2
This was justified because our Lord was making satisfaction for the sins
of the whole world, and the Father had already indicated the acceptance of
the sacrifice which was then in process. R4981:4, 3315:1, 1921:3
Suggesting the willingness of our Lord to forgive sins and heal the body
in "the times of restitution." (Acts 3:21) R2584:2
Teaching the willingness of the Lord to forgive sins, to ignore them, to
deal with us as though we were free from sin. R3314:5
Not blotted out, though forgiven. R3730:4
Implied full restitution to health and life. R1722:5
We mark a wide distinction between the blotting out of sin at the second
coming of Christ, and the forgiveness of sins which may be enjoyed now by
all who will exercise the necessary faith and obedience. R3729:6, 3314:6
But the man still lay helpless, his sins not blotted out though forgiven;
still an illustration of the terrible effects of sin. R3730:4
Perfect creatures need no forgiveness, no allowance. R4981:1
Under the Law Covenant God arranged with the nation of Israel a certain
kind and degree of forgiveness and reconciliation through Moses their
Mediator. R3730:4
Our Lord must have seen a very proper condition in the young man's heart,
else he would not have said these words unsolicited. R2583:5
Apparently the Lord was going to let him wait for the appointed time, with
this simple assurance of the present favor of God, to thus test his faith
and the measure of his satisfaction in that assurance. R1722:5
The palsied man had not brought a sin-offering under the terms of the
Jewish Law, but had brought the sacrifice appropriate to the new
dispensation, "a broken and a contrite heart." (Psa. 51:17) R2584:2
Members of the Body of Christ are fully qualified to declare to all true
believers in Jesus these very words. R3315:2
Mark 2:6
The scribes -- The Rabbis, the Doctors of the Law. R2583:6

Reasoning -- We may suppose that it was partly to start this very line
of reasoning that our Lord expressed himself as he did. R3729:2
Mark 2:7
Why doth this man -- The question was a very proper one, and they are
not to be blamed for making the enquiry. R2583:6
Who can forgive -- A claim impossible to dispute, but one which Jesus
substantiated by his power to heal this man physically. R2583:6
They did not consider that if he were the Messiah he would possess the
authority. R4980:6
But God only -- All sin is primarily against God, whose law of
righteousness is infringed. R3730:2
Claiming that Jesus was arrogating to himself a power which belonged to
God alone. R4980:6, 3729:1
According to the plan of redemption Jesus was the only one who could
forgive sins; or the Heavenly Father through him. R3730:2
God never gave power to bishops, priests or ministers of any denomination
to forgive sins; nor did Jesus give authority to the apostles to forgive
sins. They might preach forgiveness, but only in his name. HG737:5
Mark 2:9
Is it easier -- They had incorrectly thought that the forgiveness of

sins would represent greater power and authority than the doing of
miracles. R3314:6
Which is the greater power, to work miracles upon the natural body or to
work a miracle of grace in the heart? R3315:2
The healing of the soul from the sickness and condemnation of sin should
far outrank physical conditions and blessings. R2584:1
Arise -- Our Lord healed the sick to foreshadow the great work of his
Millennial reign, to attract attention and establish his authority as a
teacher, and to manifest his love and sympathy. R1722:1
Take up thy bed -- Although in the nature of restitution, this is not a
blotting out of the man's sins. R3730:4
And walk -- Healing the man of the result of his sins. R3729:2
Mark 2:10
That ye may know -- It will be a lesson respecting the truthfulness of

my statement. R2583:6
Mark 2:12
He arose -- Not completely out of all imperfections. Jesus merely healed

him of a measure of his special difficulty. R3730:5
Mark 2:13
Went forth again -- The tense of the Greek would seem to indicate that
our Lord kept going by the seashore, stopping here and there to discourse
to the people, multitudes of whom flocked to hear him. R2590:3
Mark 2:14
He saw Levi -- His name was changed to Matthew when he became a member
of the Lord's company. Matthew signifies "the gift of God." R2260:3,
4986:6, 2591:1
The receipt of custom -- He belonged to the Levitical tribe, but his
service as a Roman tax collector socially degraded him and classed him as
a "publican." R4986:6, 2591:1
The name "publican" and the profession were extremely odious to the Jews,
as unpatriotic and disloyal. R2591:1
He was independent and humble-minded, braving the scorn of his
fellow-countrymen. R4986:6
Perhaps the independence, humble-mindedness and the braving of the scorn
of his fellow-countrymen were favorable qualities to becoming a disciple
of Jesus. R4986:6
Follow me -- A special invitation to become Jesus' disciple. R4987:1
Not being previously invited to become one of Jesus' immediate disciples,
Matthew could not essay to become one earlier. R2591:1
Followed him -- Forsaking all earthly goods that he might be a member of
the Messianic class. R4987:1
We are not to suppose that Matthew left his money-drawer open, and his
accounts with the Roman government unsettled, to immediately follow the
Master. It may have taken weeks. R2591:1
The Lord and his disciples were well known. Probably Matthew had not only
knowledge of our Lord, but also faith in him, as the Messiah. R2591:1
Mark 2:15
And it came to pass -- Probably several weeks after Matthew's call.

R2591:5
In his house -- Matthew was a householder. R4987:1
A man of influence, Matthew immediately set about to use his influence in
drawing others to the Savior. R2591:2
In consecrated homes the first consideration should be the service of the
Master. R2591:3
Many -- Of his friends and business associates. R2591:2
So today, each should seek to exert his influence where it is greatest,
upon his acquaintances, upon whom either his past honesty and good
character should have an influence, or else those to whom his radical
change of life would be most manifest. R2591:3
Publicans -- A term applied in Jesus' day to Jews who served the Roman
government as tax collectors in Palestine. R4986:3
They were looked upon with disdain as being unfaithful to their religion
and their nation. R4986:3, 2591:1
Like himself, of the ostracized class. R4987:1
Ones not professing holiness, but rather confessing estrangement from God
and lack of harmony with his Law. R5464:1
Counted unpatriotic, disloyal to their own nation, in that they accepted
the service of an alien government, and made use of their knowledge of
their country and people in assisting to collect revenues deemed unjust.
R2591:1
And sinners -- Jews who were careless in respect to the orthodoxy of
their day; non-religious. R4986:3, 2591:2
Not necessarily evil-doers. R2591:2
They followed him -- The common people heard him gladly. R4967:3
Mark 2:16
Pharisees -- Signifies "holy person"--one scrupulously careful in

observing the smallest details of the Law. R4986:3,6
Publicans -- Disdained as being unfaithful to their religion and to
their nation. R4986:3
Sinners -- Styled "sinners" by the Pharisees because less particular in
form, regardless of their having true moral status. R4986:6
How is it -- Jesus looked not upon the outward appearance, but the
heart. He did not love the publicans because they were sinners, nor
disapprove of the Pharisees because they outwardly kept God's Law. R5464:1
Eateth and drinketh with -- Not objecting that he taught the publicans
and sinners, but that he ate with them, implying a social equality.
R2591:5 But the Pharisees would tolerate and eat with the Sadducees,
although the latter were practically unbelievers, because they were of the
wealthier and therefore more respectable class. R4986:3
Publicans and sinners -- Not that our Lord made companions of the
rowdies or moral lepers of his time. R2591:3
Ostracized, not because they were wicked, but because their business was
disesteemed, thus forcing them to have most of their social intercourse
with the non-religious, by way of contrast called "sinners." R2591:2
Mark 2:17
He saith unto them -- This afforded Jesus the opportunity to give a

great lesson in a few words. R4987:1
They that are whole -- Not implying that the Pharisees were not sick,
and did not need our Lord's ministry; but that they did not admit that
they were sin-sick and were not disposed to receive his good medicine of
doctrine. R2591:6
Of the physician -- Implying the physician had a right to mingle with
those whom he sought to relive. R2591:6
Not to call the righteous -- Those that did not admit their sinfulness
and imperfection; the self-righteous. R4987:2, 2591:6, 2260:2
Those who, not admitting their sinfulness and imperfection, do not seek
divine forgiveness. R4987:2
Those who thought themselves righteous had a barrier before them which
hindered their coming to the Lord. R4987:2
By these words Jesus sought to call attention to the fact that although
the Pharisees claimed to be righteous, they were not so. They were
sin-sick, imperfect, needing a Savior. R5464:3, 2591:6
"There is none righteous, no, not one." (Rom. 3:10) R4987:2
But sinners -- All sin is condemned of God, the little and the large;
all unrighteousness is sin. R4987:1
Those that admitted they were unrighteous and had need of mercy. R2260:5,
2591:6
Admitting their sins, they were more ready to accept forgiveness. R4987:2
The disciples were nearly all from this lower, less orthodox, less
educated class of Jews. R4986:6
Not that God is more pleased with those who live in sin than with those
who strive to live in harmony with him; but the contrary. R5464:2
To repentance -- There is a great difference between calling men to
repentance and calling them to the high calling. F87
Anyone who considered himself to be righteous would be beyond the call to
repentance. R2591:6
Mark 2:18
Pharisees -- See Verse 16.

Used to fast -- At that time a fasting season was observed by the
Pharisees and by those who had accepted the teachings of John the Baptist.
R4987:2
The Pharisees fasted "twice in the week." (Luke 18:12) R2592:1
Probably the banquet of verse 15 was on one of the regular fast days of
the Pharisees. R2591:5
Mark 2:19
Fast -- So long as Jesus was honored by the multitudes, it required

comparatively little self-denial to be one of his followers. R2592:2
The bridegroom -- Jesus personally, not Jesus and the overcomers. R398:4
There is as much evidence of Christ's being the bridegroom to the typical
church, as that he was reaper in the harvest of the typical age. R109:2*,
114:6*
Is with them -- Now in the Lord's second presence, we might say that the
feast has begun again. It almost appears as though the fasting time has
passed, and that the feasting and "joys of the Lord" have begun. R2592:2
They cannot fast -- It would be inappropriate for his followers to be in
sadness and mourning at a time when they were receiving such wonderful
blessings. R2592:1, 4987:4
They would have plenty of opportunity to weep and fast after he would be
gone. R4987:4, 2592:2
Mark 2:20
Shall be taken -- Causing an abundance of perplexity and sorrow, then

fasting would be in order. R2592:2
Then shall they fast -- Later on when trials came, when the Master got
into the toils of his enemies, when his cause was unpopular, and the
multitudes clamored for his death--then it required self-denial,
antitypical fasting, to confess him and follow him. R2592:2
Thus for eighteen centuries God's people have been fasting, praying, and
longing for the Bridegroom's return. R4987:4, 2592:2
In loneliness, and especially at the thought of the long delay in his
coming to receive her to become his wife. R4987:4
Fasting is not obligatory, but a voluntary sacrifice of present and
temporal good things that the mind and heart might go out more earnestly
after the things not yet seen, but hoped for. R4987:4
Fasting signifies self-denial, a disciplining of the body by abstaining
from delicacies, relishes, etc. R3659:5, 2592:2
Fasting is proper enough when intelligently done and from a right motive.
A very plain diet or total abstinence may assist the full blooded and
impulsive to self control. R2260:5
Fasting, under the Jewish dispensation was a symbol of self-denial under
the Christian dispensation. R955:3
Mark 2:21
No man -- These two parables illustrate that before the blessing could
come to natural Israel, spiritual Israel must be selected. R4987:5, 2592:5
This was perhaps the first intimation our Lord gave that Israel would be
rejected. R2260:6
A piece of new -- Unshrunken. R4987:5
Cloth -- The fuller light of truth due at the first and second advents
of the Lord. C160, 161
The imputed righteousness according to faith, based upon the merits of
Christ's own sacrifice for sin. R2592:4
On an old garment -- An old sect or organization. C160
The Jewish system and arrangement. R2592:4
The impossible (absolute) righteousness required by the Law. R2592:4
The Gospel teaching is not a patch upon the Jewish Law, but is a new
proposition. R4987:5, 2592:4
Away from the old -- Make the weakness of the old garment more
noticeable. C160
None of the old systems are fit to be patched, or to receive the new
doctrines. C160
Rent is made worse -- The shrinking of the new cloth would pull away the
old and increase the difficulty. R4987:5
To combine Christianity with Judaism would have been disastrous to
both--the one demanding absoluteness of righteousness; the other demanding
acknowledgment of the impossibility of personal righteousness. R2592:4
Mark 2:22
And no man -- See Verse 21.

Putteth new wine -- Wine which had not yet finished its fermentation.
R4987:5, 2592:5
Our Lord's new doctrines, the fuller light of truth. C160
The message of the Gospel dispensation. R4987:5, 2592:5
Into old bottles -- Wineskins out of which all the stretch and
elasticity had gone; symbolically, old systems. R4987:5, 2592:5
In the Lord's day--Judaism; now, in the end of the Gospel
age--sectarianism. R2592:5; C160
It was not the divine intention that Judaism should be reformed. R2592:5
Burst the bottles -- By the fermentation of the new wine. R4987:5, 2592:5
Picturing trials, disciplines and testings incidental to the preparation
for the kingdom. R4987:5
Present truth, put into the denominations, would unquestionably mean the
utter wreck of the denominations. R2592:5
The new truths would have destroyed any Jewish sect or organization built
upon sectarian pride, errors, superstitions, and traditions. C160; R2592:5
The wine is spilled -- The new doctrines would have been left stranded,
hampered by all the old errors and traditions of the sect. C160
New wine -- Today, the doctrine of the new dispensation. R2592:6
To put into Judaism the new doctrines would have meant that not only the
Jewish nation would have been convulsed and wrecked by the spirit of the
new teachings, but also that the doctrines themselves would have gone down
with the wreck of that nation. R2592:5
Into new bottles -- New wineskins that will be able to stand the stress
of the fermentation sure to come. R4987:5
God is now, as in the end of the Jewish age, calling out of the sectarian
systems such as are Israelites indeed. R2592:5; C161
It is to this called out class that the new wine of the Gospel message is
committed, and these experience the fermentation of trials, disciplines,
and testings. R4987:5
Mark 2:23
That he went -- Probably on the way to the synagogue. R3316:6

Through the corn fields -- Wheat-field. R3754:1
On the sabbath day -- Signifies rest day. (See Verse 27) R4996:2,
5405:1; OV281:1
To pluck the ears -- The Rabbis ruled that rubbing the grain in both
hands and blowing the chaff constituted winnowing and threshing, and
violated the Sabbath. R3754:2, 5405:6, 4995:6
The Pharisees had a rule that no food should be eaten until after worship
in the synagogue. R3316:6
Mark 2:24
On the sabbath day -- Jesus is supposed by some to have taught a laxity

in the matter of Sabbath observance. This is a misunderstanding for Jesus
was born a Jew and as much obligated to keep that Law as any other Jew.
OV278:3
Not lawful -- Charging them with breaking the Sabbath. R5405:6, 3754:2;
Q608:T
Mark 2:25
He said -- Objecting, not to the Sabbath Law, but to the nonsensical

misinterpretations that were being made. R4995:6
When he had need -- David was not punished nor considered blameworthy
because of the emergency of his situation. R4996:1
Mark 2:26
Did eat the shewbread -- In an emergency, thus not considered

blameworthy. R4996:1
Mark 2:27
The sabbath -- Signifies rest day. R4996:2, 5405:1; OV281:1

Antitypical meaning to the Christian is the rest of faith. OV281:1; F392;
R5405:5
Quite probably the early disciples kept the Sabbath day and the first day
as well, for a time. R5405:3, 4600:2; F384
The great Messiah's reign of a thousand years will be the Sabbath of the
world in general--the antitypical Sabbath. R5405:5, 4600:5; B40; D579;
Q607:4; OV279:T
Israel's Law provided two Sabbaths; one every seventh year as well as one
every seventh day. R5405:5
Was made -- There was no Sabbath day before the Jewish Law. R5405:1
Enoch and Abraham knew nothing about the Sabbath. R5405:1
For man -- Not "for all mankind." R1732:6
The Law not made to hinder any good or necessary work, but to benefit the
people. R5405:6. 1732:6
For the benefit of mankind, for physical, mental and moral rest,
recuperation and strengthening. R3316:2
God did not make man merely to keep a Sabbath, but he made the Sabbath
for, in the interest of, mankind. OV279:1
Our Lord is showing the Jews they were putting an extreme construction
upon the command. R1732:6
Not man for the sabbath -- It is a mistake to suppose, as some then and
now do, that God made man simply to keep the Sabbath. R4995:6, 3316:2;
OV279:1
Mark 2:28
Lord -- Signifies master, ruler, governor. R61:1*

Husband is a definition of Lord. The Anglo-Saxon word, Hlaford, from which
our English word Lord is derived signifies breadkeeper, and is applied to
one who has the general care over, and control of a family. R61:1*
Also of the sabbath -- He was the proper teacher to set forth its real
significance. R3754:4, 4996:1
Lord of the great antitypical Sabbath, the great seventh day of a thousand
years, the great antitypical Jubilee. R4996:4
Jesus could correct certain misapprehensions of the Law but the real
meaning of the Sabbath could not be explained until after Pentecost.
R5405:6
To the Church, every day is a Sabbath; God's consecrated people rest as
God rests--in faith, hope and trust. But also "there remaineth a rest for
the people of God." (Heb. 4:9)--a different rest from that which we now
enjoy--an actual rest after the resurrection change. R4996:4
Mark 3
Mark 3:2
Heal him on the sabbath -- Jesus did so many of his miracles of the
Sabbath day as a prophetical picture of the great antitypical Sabbath day,
the Millennium. R4600:5
Mark 3:4
On the sabbath days -- Type of the Millennial age. (See Verse 27) B40
To save life -- Greek: psuche; soul, being. E335
Mark 3:5
With anger -- A righteous indignation at hypocrisy and willful

opposition to the light. R787:4, 4996:1
That men should think it sinful to relieve human distress on the Sabbath.
R4996:1
Lack of ability to have just indignation would imply a lack of morals and
of harmony with God. R5125:1
Being grieved -- Like him, the Lord's people should be wholly out of
sympathy with everything not in harmony with God. R5125:1
Hardness of their hearts -- In a faithless attitude, not readily
impressionable but inclined to be skeptical. R2651:3
The general trend of sin is to hardness of heart. OV304:2
He saith -- Showing our Lord's fortitude in pursuing his work,
notwithstanding the opposition which conspired even against his life.
R1735:1
His hand was restored -- The completeness and instantaneousness of his
cures evidence the miraculousness of his healing. R1735:4
Mark 3:6
The Pharisees went forth -- They were rabid sectarians, fully convinced
of their own importance. A similar spirit prevails today. R3754:5 Took
counsel -- More zealous for their theory than for the truth, for the
letter of the Law than for the spirit of the Law. R4996:1
The evil heart is not amenable to reason. R4600:5
The Herodians -- See Mark 12:13.
Against him -- As his fame increased, his opposition increased. R1735:3
Opposition and persecution are the inevitable concomitants of activity in
the service of God, and they should be met with reason and candor. R1736:6
Might destroy him -- Excited to envy, malice, hatred and the very spirit
of murder. R4600:5
Mark 3:7
Withdrew himself -- Not unnecessarily exposing himself to danger and

then looking for miraculous interposition of providence for his
protection, but using natural means and precautions for his preservation
and protection until "his hour was come." (John 2:4) R1735:1
Mark 3:8
A great multitude -- Both Jews and Gentiles, thus creating a popularity

for the Gospel which would be favorable to its dissemination later. R1735:4
Mark 3:10
For he had healed many -- His healings were accomplished by imparting a

measure of his own vitality. R1735:4
To touch him -- Indicating that many of his healings were accomplished
by imparting a measure of his own vitality, thus impoverishing himself to
bless others. R1735:4
Mark 3:11
Thou art the Son of God -- Their conduct toward our Lord was far more
respectful than that of the strictest sect of the Jewish church. Surely
many of them will be prepared to return to their former estate on whatever
terms a just God may prescribe. R1680:1
But the Pharisees said, "Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph?" (John
6:42) R1680:1
Mark 3:13
He goeth up -- Evidently to take counsel of God with reference to the

interests of the prospective Church, continuing all night in prayer. (Luke
6:12, 13) R1521:3
Withdrawing for physical and spiritual rest and refreshment after feeling
his own loss of strength from continuous healings. R1735:4
Mark 3:14
He ordained -- While called individually, there was a special occasion

upon which he dedicated them to their office as apostles. R1521:2
There is no intimation in the New Testament that, as one after another of
the apostles died, other men were recognized as succeeding them. R5002:3
Twelve -- No more and no less. F209
The twelve were marked as separate and distinct amongst the disciples. F210
Only males were chosen to be the special public servants and ambassadors
of the Gospel. F265
The twelve springs of Elim (Exod. 15:27) remind us of the apostles through
whom has come the water of life. R4011:2
The recognition of successors to the apostles was one of the first errors
after their death. R5002:6
He had many followers, both men and women, but only twelve were specially
deputized as his mouthpieces and representatives among men. R5002:2
Send them forth -- Though we are not informed that their success in the
work was any more marked during that time than was that of the seventy
whom the Lord also appointed to this ministry, though not to the
apostleship. (Luke 10:17) R1521:5
To preach -- These services were to be rendered specially in connection
with the promulgation of the Gospel. F212
Their commission was, in the main, the same as the commission of the Lord
and of the whole Church. (Isa. 61:1, 2) R1521:5
They were not to be lords over God's heritage. Their commission was one of
service. F211, 212
Mark 3:16
Simon -- Bold, impetuous. R2261:1
Mark 3:17
James -- Elderly. R2261:1 John -- Young. R2261:1

The sons of thunder -- Probably because of their eloquence and
forcefulness of speech. R3003:1
Mark 3:18
Andrew -- Far-seeing, careful, cautious. R2261:1

Philip -- Slow-witted. R2261:1
Bartholomew -- Nathaniel, the quick-witted. R2261:1
Matthew -- One of the heros of faith. R2261:1
Thomas -- The doubting, skeptical intellect. R2261:1
James -- The advocate of works. R2261:2
Supposed to have been second cousin to our Lord, and for this reason,
according to Jewish custom, styled "the Lord's brother." (Gal. 1:19)
R3003:2
Alphaeus -- Cleopas, husband of Mary. R3003:2
Thaddaeus -- Jude, a man of doctrine. R2261:2
Simon -- The zealot, a man of enthusiasm and independence. R2261:2
Mark 3:19
Judas Iscariot -- The conservative economist. R2261:2

As one of the tribes of Israel was cut off, and is not mentioned in the
enumeration of the Apocalypse, but the tribe of Manasseh substituted (Rev.
7:6-8), so amongst Jesus' apostles, Judas is dropped and a successor
appointed. R5002:3
By grouping them two-by-two, the Master made one full man out of two half
men in each case. R2261:1
Mark 3:21
Lay hold on him -- Verses 20, 21 and 31 (Diaglott) seem to indicate more
of a spirit of fear and anxiety than of opposition. R1736:5
He is beside himself -- His friends feared for him, so quickly had his
course changed from one of privacy to one of publicity. R5037:1
Mark 3:22
The scribes -- Considering themselves representatives of Jewish

orthodoxy and qualified to pass upon everything theological. R5037:1
Which came down -- To Galilee, in the vicinity of Capernaum. R5037:1
From Jerusalem -- Probably commissioned by the Jewish ecclesiastics
there to come as spies, watch his words, withstand his teachings and if
possible, find some occasion against him. R1736:1
Beelzebub -- The prince of demons, Satan. R3310:4
The first, and for a long time, the only, enemy of the divine government.
R2171:5
This charge reveals the wisdom of Jesus' refusal to receive testimony from
the demon. R3310:4
The prince -- Their chief; and no doubt as a superior order of being he
exercises some degree of control. R2171:5
Satan is called the prince of darkness, of evil, of sin, or error, the
"father of lies." SM548:1
Of the devils -- The "angels who kept not their first estate" (Jude 6)
and who were restrained at the time of the flood. R2171:5; SM548:1
Greek: daimonion; properly rendered "demon." The unclean spirits, the
familiar spirits, the fallen angels. R5183:3
Mark 3:23
Said unto them in parables -- "When he was reviled, he reviled not

again." (1 Pet. 2:23) R4802:6
How can Satan -- The term Satan signifies adversary, opponent. R5183:3
Whose very existence is now being denied by many. F609; R3310:5
This does not imply that Satan will never be so cornered as to find it
necessary to do good works in order to deceive; but that, when that time
shall come, it will be a sure indication that his kingdom is tottering.
R3784:2, 3120:1
Cast out Satan -- That would be suicidal; equivalent to a king stirring
up strife in his own kingdom and working against his own cause. R1736:2
By the curing of physical ailments. F641; R1685:6
As he is now doing through "Christian Science." R2189:1, 3784:3, 1736:3
A proof that his power was on the wane. F638
The "wonderful works" of all who deny Jesus as the Redeemer are not to be
credited to divine power. These works show to what straits Satan is
reduced. R2189:2
If faith-healing power be not of God, it must be of the Adversary. R5037:2
Mark 3:24
Kingdom be divided -- The absurdity of a king stirring up strife and

working against his own cause. R1736:2
Mark 3:25
House be divided -- The absurdity of the head of a house alienating and

disrupting his own family and opposing the operation of his own plans.
R1736:2
That Satan's house is now dividing against itself is manifest. R1736:3,
3784:2
Against itself -- Showing to what straits "the prince of this world" is
reduced by the great increase of knowledge. His struggles are specially
desperate at the age's close, before he is "bound" for the thousand years.
(Rev. 20:1) R2189:2
Mark 3:26
Rise up against himself -- Reverse his methods and do some works of

healing, thereby to clinch his errors and deceptions and to re-bind some.
R5802:1
On the one hand causing sickness and death, and on the other hand healing
the sick and casting out devils. R2189:2
Satan has long palmed himself off as a teacher clothed in light, but Satan
in the roll of faith healer is a novelty belonging chiefly to our day.
R3120:2
We believe Satan has much to do with various faith healings done by
Christian Science, Spiritualism, Hypnotism, etc. R3784:2, 1736:4; HG327:3
Be divided -- Upholding false and contradictory doctrines. R5037:2
He cannot stand -- If it was necessary for him to thus work against his
own plans and arrangements, associates, etc. R3784:2
Satan has become a worker of miracles. This is a token that his "house" is
tottering to its fall. R3120:1
Mark 3:27
Strong man's -- Satan, the powerful "prince of this world." R1736:2

House -- Or, dominion; or, arrangements. R1736:2, 626:6
Spoil -- The general spoliation of the present social structure will be
indeed a dark night. R1955:1
In the great time of anarchy. Q626:1; A69
Destroy the works of evil, of sin, of superstition, of ignorance, etc.
SM243:1
His goods -- His arrangements. R1626:6
All the present institutions of the world are Satan's goods and
arrangements. Q626:1
Implying that he was already binding Satan, already spoiling his goods.
R3784:3
He will first -- Satan must first be bound, restrained and deposed,
before Christ's reign of righteousness and peace can be established. A69;
HG538:5
Since the beginning of the time of the end, in 1799, and particularly
since 1878, God has specially let in the light. The more the "light"
shines, the more active is the Adversary to preserve his power. R1736:2
Bind the strong man -- Satan. R1736:2
With a strong chain of power; not his doom, but merely a restraint from
deceiving the nations until the end of the Millennial age. R255:1
The first work of the new dispensation. "And he laid hold on that old
serpent, which is the devil and Satan, and bound him a thousand years."
(Rev. 20:2) A69
Set up God's Kingdom and overthrow sin. R1626:6
May it not be that part of the work accomplished by our invisible present
Master was the binding? R4695:3
The work and teaching of Jesus were just such binding influences. R1736:2,
3784:3
When bound he will not have yet met his doom, but will merely be
restrained from deceiving the nations. R255:1
His binding will be gradually accomplished. R3784:5
After the thief-like work of taking the Church is completed, and the
kingdoms of this world go down in a climax of trouble. R3784:6
Spoil his house -- The work of destroying Satan's house was not intended
to go on to a rapid completion. He would be permitted to control the world
until the full end of the Gospel age, when his binding will be gradually
accomplished and be followed by the liberating of the whole world from his
chains of error. R3784:5
The general spoliation of the present social structure. R1955:1
Release humanity from his dominion. R1736:2
Mark 3:28
All sins -- Sins of ignorance will be forgiven. E272
Mark 3:29
He that shall blaspheme -- Jesus did not say that the scribes and
Pharisees had committed the sin of blasphemy against the holy Spirit,
though some of them may have done so. R5037:3
Against the Holy Ghost -- Jesus made this statement because they said
that the spirit that was in him was an unclean spirit; that he was
actuated by one of the fallen angels and not by the divine Spirit. R5037:4
Maliciously attributing to an evil source what could not be denied was a
good work, free from sin, selfishness or ambition. R5037:4
Wilful opposition against that which is known to be holy and of divine
appointment. R1736:4
Reject light when they see it. R192:3*
Could not be committed in ignorance. R5037:3
Jesus did not say that the scribes and Pharisees had committed the sin.
E272
Hath never forgiveness -- A sin unto death. R1249:1
Does not come under the satisfaction of divine justice whereby deliverance
from Adamic death is secured. R1736:5
Because such conduct is treason against God. R1736:4
Neither in this world not the world (age) to come. R192:3*
"It is impossible to renew again unto repentance." (Heb. 6:4, 6; 10:26)
R1249:1
In danger of -- Our Lord's reasoning did not change their attitude;
hence, the rebuke and solemn warning. R1736:4
The scribes had so misused their education and opportunities as to be in
great danger of becoming so degraded that even the kingdom influences
would not bring them to a condition worthy of everlasting life. R5037:5
Those who violate their consciences, ignore the light they enjoy and sin
against it, will find themselves proportionately degraded under kingdom
influences and tests. R5037:5
Punishable with stripes. Every sin against light increases the danger of
going into the second or eternal death. R1736:5
If corrective discipline does not produce reform, the increase of
knowledge and experience will shortly make it a wilful sin against full
knowledge, for which the full penalty would be inflicted--second death.
R1736:5
Eternal damnation -- Eternal condemnation, eternal death. Every sin
against light increases the danger of going into second or eternal death.
R1736:4
Mark 3:31
There came then -- More out of a spirit of anxiety than of opposition.

(See Diaglott on verses 20, 21 & 31) R1736:5
His brethren -- They did not believe in his claims and doctrines at that
time, and seemingly could not understand why he was so revolutionary in
his teachings and so antagonistic to all the recognized religious teachers
of his day. (John 17:5) R1736:5
Arguing against the Roman Church teaching that Mary is "ever a virgin."
R560:2*
And his mother -- Still pondering the mystery in her mind. R1736:5
Mark 3:32
Seek for thee -- Doubtless to urge him to greater caution for his safety
and to more care for his physical necessities. R1736:6
Mark 3:34
Behold my mother -- The heavenly relationship was the one dearest to

him. R1736:6
Mark 3:35
Whosoever shall do -- Not whosoever shall hear, or understand, or desire

to do, nor even try to do. R1802:3*
The will of God -- Jehovah, his will and all his works are wholly on the
side of purity, justice and truth--in no sense practicing sin, endorsing
it, causing others to practice it, or in the slightest degree favoring it.
R1781:3
Mark 4
Mark 4:1
A great multitude -- Attracted by reason of the miracles he performed.

R3763:1
Mark 4:2
Parables -- Similes, illustrations, the thing said never being the thing
meant. R3763:1
These different parable-pictures represent the same subject from different
standpoints, just as a photograph of a building from the north, south,
east and west, internally and externally. R4636:2, 5049:6
The prophet had foretold that our Lord would open his mouth in "parables"
and in "dark sayings." (Psa. 78:2) R3763:3
Mark 4:3
Hearken -- An implication that an important lesson is contained in the

parable. R3763:1
Only he that seeketh findeth the true meaning. R3763:1
A sower -- Known as the parable of the Sower, it might be more
accurately described as the parable of the four kinds of soil,
representing four kinds of human hearts. R3763:1
Our Lord was the great Sower, and after him the apostles. Since then he
has used all of his faithful people more or less in this seed-sowing.
R4634:3
To sow -- The field first sown is a Jewish field. The portion of the
Gentile field that is being sown is but a limited one. R3764:3
Mark 4:4
By the way side -- The fields of Palestine are not fenced and the paths
And the fowls -- Syrian and Palestinian birds seem to be much more
numerous than elsewhere, probably on account of the climate; they are said
to be one of the special pests of the farmer of that region. R3763:2
Representing Satan and his evil agents. R5039:2, 2634:6
Mark 4:5
On stony ground -- Palestine abounds with limestone, which renders the

soil very rich, but, when shallow, very hot. R3763:2
Mark 4:6
The sun -- The sun of persecution necessary for the ripening. R5039:4
Mark 4:7
Fell among thorns -- Fifty genera and 200 species of plants in Syria and
Palestine are furnished with thorns and prickles, probably more than any
other country. Some grow ten to fifteen feet high. R3763:2*
Mark 4:8
Thirty...sixty...hundred -- One writer remarks that at Geneva in 1855 he

got from the field a single ear of barley containing 276 grains. R3763:2
Bring forth the fruits of the Spirit; one hundred representing the highest
standard, sixty not quite as high, and thirty might mean those of the
Great Company. CR276:4
Mark 4:9
He that hath ears -- "Blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your
ears, for they hear." (Matt. 13:16) R2712:2
Let him hear -- Having ears for the meaning, for the lesson, to know the
will of God. R3763:3
We do our best to make plain the mystery, however only in proportion as
our hearers have ears to hear can we succeed, only in proportion as the
fear of God predominates over the fear of man. CR10:6
"He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the
churches." (Rev. 2:7) B16
Mark 4:10
They -- Not only the twelve apostles, but a considerable number of

disciples or followers. R3763:3
Asked of him -- Earnest desire to understand every word of God is an
evidence that we belong to the kingdom class. R3763:5
The humble and truth-hungry inquire earnestly for the truth. B28
Mark 4:11
Unto you -- The Church; those walking in his footsteps. E333; R5088:1;
CR435:1
The spirit-begotten ones. R4909:2
The meek, honest and faithful of God's people. D614; R4666:2
Israelites indeed in whom there was no guile, the very class for whom God
had prepared the exceeding great and precious arrangements of his plan.
R4108:2
An elect class he was attracting to himself who would be suitable for his
Bride, his kingdom, his Church. R3763:4
Applies not only to the disciples of that day, but to the disciples all
through the age. R1742:1
Unto the saints, in proportion as they are saintly. OV5:1
The brethren. CR476:3
While dismissing the self-satisfied, fault-finding quibbles of the
Pharisees with dark or evasive answers, he took time and care in making
the truth clear and plain to the humble. B27
It is given to know -- At the first presence, the humble Israelites
indeed were not confused, but enlightened, so now in the second presence.
D599; B28, 170
The Lord interpreted his parables and dark sayings to the apostles. R4909:2
Because they were in the condition of heart that would be profited by the
knowledge. R3763:4
Yet even to the disciples there were certain things better left unsaid. "I
have many things to tell you, but ye cannot bear them now." (John 16:12)
R3780:4
Not to produce sanctification (consecration) but to strengthen, confirm,
and upbuild those who are sanctified (set apart). R716:4*
If those without were declared "worthy of stripes" for not receiving the
light, what shall we say of the responsibility of the twelve who not only
saw much more, but by his power in them performed his miracles. R4909:2,
1962:5
"None of the wicked shall understand, but the wise (toward God) shall
understand." (Dan. 12:10) R5039:2
The mystery -- "But ye, brethren are not in darkness, that that day
should overtake you as a thief." (1 Thes. 5:4) C215
"The secret of the Lord is with them that reverence him, and he will show
them his covenant." (Psa. 25:14) R5039:2
Why God permits evil is one of the "deep things" revealed only to those
begotten of the holy Spirit. R1506:1
The apostles received a special insight, and corresponding responsibility.
R4909:2, 4907:2, 1962:5
All this privilege, opportunity, knowledge and contact with the Lord made
Judas specially responsible, and his crime inexcusable. R4907:3
Them that are without -- The world. OV5:1; CR435:1 Outsiders ensnared by
the fear of men. CR10:6
Outsiders, not specially interested followers. R3803:2, 5088:1
The masses, not in a heart condition to understand and be profited. R5039:1
Outside the pale of the believing disciples--which included all Israel
except a small "remnant." R1742:4, 4909:2
Outside of the twelve and other special disciples. R4909:2, 3780:3
The riches of God's grace were never intended to be understood, except by
the elect. R4053:6
Not disciples, not consecrated. R3763:3
At the present time it is not given to all to see and understand, but the
time is coming when all the blind eyes shall be opened. R3140:5
In parables -- Dark sayings. D614
Psalm 78:2 foretold that our Lord would open his mouth in "parables" and
in "dark sayings." R3763:3
In order that, even though having the Bible before them, others than the
consecrated may not really see and understand. B170
Mark 4:12
Not perceive -- The Scriptures were written and arranged in such a way
by the Lord, through the inspired writers, that they could not be
understood except by those who would come into harmony with him by faith
and obedience. Q821:1
Nevertheless, there was something very attractive in the Master's style,
so that even those who did not fully comprehend his teachings said, "Never
man spake like this man." (John 7:46) R3803:2
Because their hearts were not right. Because of this unworthiness,
blindness came upon Israel, and will continue until the fullness of the
Gentiles is come in. (Rom. 11:25) R1742:4
Not understand -- Because the masses even of the Jews were not in a
heart condition to understand. R5039:1
The dark sayings of our Lord were not understood by the people who heard
them and seem to be but little better comprehended today. A128
But that the specially zealous Israelite indeed might be attracted to
closer study and inquiry. R3803:2
Unintelligible words from the standpoint of ordinary Christian thought.
R3763:3
We are not to be surprised at the wide difference of understanding of God
and of his mightiness and character, as viewed by the saints and by the
world; but to expect it. R2712:2
Lest at any time -- "A little knowledge is a dangerous thing." Had the
multitudes believed, certain features of the divine plan might have been
hindered. R3763:6
Should be converted -- Turned to a proper course. R3763:3
Mark 4:13
Know ye not -- The Lord expected his disciples to see the drift of this
parable without inquiring for an explanation. R1741:6
He expected them to use their common sense in either interpreting the
parable for themselves, or in judging the correctness of interpretations
offered by others. R3250:3
How then -- He would have us think, consider and put out God-given
mental faculties to their legitimate use. R3250:3
Will ye know -- Understand. R1566:2
All parables -- This parable would serve as a general key for the
interpretation of all Jesus' parables. R5039:2, 3763:6, 716:4*
He only explained the one parable and left us to find the significance of
the others by study, comparison and observation of his methods and
principles. R716:4*
Any interpretation out of harmony with the general principles laid down in
the Scriptures, or at variance with any plain, direct statement, may be
set down as incorrect, whether we see a better one or not. R716:4*
Resulting in many misinterpretations of his teachings. R2476:3
Mark 4:14
Soweth the word -- The Word of God, the entire revelation which God has
made to us--the Bible. R3764:1, 5039:2, 2628:4
More than this, it represents that particular element or feature of God's
Word which relates to the kingdom. R5039:2, 2628:4
Intention, plan or purpose of God. R338:1, 421:2
First, in a Jewish field, already prepared by divine instructions and
disciplines. The Gentile field that is being sown is but a limited one.
Christendom is the wheatfield. R3764:3
Not that any particular translation of the Word of God, nor that any
religious writings which contain this Word are invaluable, but they are
good seed only in proportion as they are thoroughly loyal to the divine
Word. R3764:1
Mark 4:15
By the way side -- The heart not in a receptive attitude, hard like the
wayside path. R5039:2
Paths hard trodden by life's experiences; sometimes by too great
prosperity. Trials, sufferings, and disappointments may plow them up.
R3764:3
Their hearts being solid and compact with selfishness. R2627:3
Hard ground--hard hearts, selfish hearts, proud hearts. R5039:3
For such the Lord must, either through trials in the present life or
disciplines in the Millennium, plow up their hearts and make them ready
for the reception of the truth. R3764:4
Satan -- Our Lord and the apostles were firm believers in a personal
devil. R3165:6,5
Satan and his evil agents are represented by the "birds." R5039:2
Taketh away the word -- We lose the benefit of that which we do not
understand. R5039:2
Mark 4:16
On stony ground -- Those with little depth of character, merely

emotional, shallow, superficial in their love of righteousness. Below the
surface are hard, stony, selfish hearts. R5039:3, 2627:5
We cannot see as God sees, we know not the heart, the shallowness of the
nature. R3764:4
Immediately receive it -- The first gush of enthusiasm in the Lord's
service, much as we may and do appreciate it, may be but the hasty
production of shallow soil in the heart. R1656:1
Mark 4:17
No root in themselves -- Little depth of character, merely emotional.

R5039:3
Having little nourishment, backed by little character, it will soon wither
and bring no fruitage to maturity. R3764:4
The trouble was not with the seed nor with the sower, nor with the sun of
persecution necessary for the ripening--the fault lay in the fact that
their hearts were not right; they were hard, stony. R5039:4
But for a time -- Under new conditions character will be deepened and
good results will be proportionately obtained. R3764:5
Offended -- All their ardor oozes out, their zeal is at an end. R5039:4
Mark 4:18
These are they -- Very nice people, hospitable, educated, etc. R5039:5
Among thorns -- Earthly projects and ambitions whose interests conflict
with the interests of the kingdom. R3764:5
Soil that brings forth great thorns is rich, and if devoted wholly to the
production of wheat would bring forth large crops. R3764:5
These thorns are not gambling devices, card parties, saloons and other
places of ill-repute, nor secret sins and vices. R5039:4
This does not mean poor ground, for the thorns are to be found in the very
best of ground. R2627:6
Mark 4:19
Cares of this world -- Their talents, influence, means, time--the

strength of their hearts, the strength of the soil is absorbed in another
direction--in the bringing forth of earthly projects and ambitions whose
interests conflict with the interests of the kingdom. R3764:5
They are mistaken who suppose they can love both the Lord and the world.
"Ye cannot serve God and mammon." (Matt. 6:24) R3764:5
Deceitfulness of riches -- Money--lust and the excitement of business
and pleasure. R5743:2
Experience would lead us to question whether or not prosperous ones are
living as near to God as when they were less prosperous. R2520:2
The Lord occasionally finds some to whom he can entrust a stewardship of
riches without injury, but such instances are rare. R2520:2
If a Christian grows rich, it should be with fear and trembling. R1045:5*
The awful power in money is more dangerous than dynamite. R1045:5*
This does not signify that merely the rich are thus deceived. SM317:2
Lusts of other things -- Money-lust, and the excitement of business and
pleasure. R5743:2
Become unfruitful -- We "cannot serve God and mammon." (Matt. 6:24)
R3764:5
Not much can be expected from the wayside heart of the shallow-hearted,
but great possibilities are lost in those in whom the seed of truth is
choked by the cares of this life. R3764:6
The first spot upon their robe distressed them; but subsequently they
became accustomed to seeing it spotted and thought less and less of the
matter. SM260:T
Mark 4:20
Hear the word -- See Verse 14.

Bring forth fruit -- One kind of fruitage but with differences in the
amount of yield. R5039:5
Some thirtyfold -- Might mean those who perhaps will be of the Great
Company class. CR276:4
Some sixty -- Might be the Bride class but not to shine quite as highly
in the kingdom, "star differeth from star in glory." (1 Cor. 15:41) CR276:4
All will come forth glorious, but some will blaze with a more respondent
brilliancy, because of their great zeal, and therefore their great
likeness to their Redeemer and Lord. R5039:5
The amount of fruitage will be measured by the amount of love and zeal in
the heart. R5039:5
Some an hundred -- Might be those who came up to the very highest
standard. CR276:4
Those with the largest possible capacity and measure of service to our
king. R3765:4
Those who love the Lord, his truth and his people most fervently. R2628:4
The fully appreciative and the fully loving, will be the most energetic to
know and to do the Master's will, and they will bring forth the largest
fruitage. They, too, will have the chief places in the kingdom. R5039:5
Those will have the places of honor next to the Redeemer, who, in this
life, will manifest to God the greatest harmony with his character, in
their zeal, their love for God, the truth and the brethren. R5039:6
Mark 4:21
Under a bushel -- Demonstrating lack of courage, appreciation,

earnestness. R4967:5
Mark 4:22
There is nothing hid -- This prophecy is as true in the judgment of

Illustrated by the X-ray machine. R1954:3
Which shall not -- During the Millennial age. A303
Be manifested -- A day of reckoning regarding the proper and diligent
use of our gifts in harmony with the divine purpose and methods. R1972:3
We seem to be approaching this time. R1954:3
A testimony dreaded but disbelieved by unjust stewards of wealth and
power. C20
The murderer and his victim, the debtor and his creditor, the thief and
his dupe, the defamer and the defamed, must face each other. R1655:1
Mark 4:23
Ears to hear -- The only Gospel was to be preached not to Jews only, but
to people of any nation who might be found with "ears to hear"--with
hearts to appreciate it. R2995:6
Mark 4:24
Take heed what ye hear -- Each should be on guard against communications

and sparks that would be injurious, igniting the heart. R4381:4
With what measure ye mete -- The forgiving of God's children is made
dependent upon their having a spirit of forgiveness toward the brethren.
R5135:5
Mark 4:25
To him shall be given -- Following this just principle, the Logos, who
had proved faithful in all things, was offered the Headship of the New
Creation with its sufferings and the glory to follow. (1 Pet. 1:11) F64, 65
Mark 4:26
The kingdom of God -- The embryo kingdom. R5049:6, 2634:6

Referring to the kingdom class of the present time, rather than to the
kingdom in its fully developed state during the thousand years of his
glory. R5049:3
The nominal church of this Gospel age. R2634:6, 5049:6
A man should cast seed -- Jesus and the apostles did the seed sowing,
not only for their own day but for the whole wheat class developed
throughout this age. R5049:6
Mark 4:27
Night and day -- Illustrating slow, gradual, methodical development,

covering the entire period of this Gospel age. R5049:6
Mark 4:28
For the earth -- The law of spiritual life finds a magnificent symbol
in the law of vegetable growth. Such correspondency suggests one Bible in
two volumes--the volume of Nature and the volume of Scripture. The first
volume is the second volume illustrated. R29:4,6*
Bringeth forth fruit -- Slow, gradual, methodical development, covering
the entire period of this Gospel age. R5049:6
Of this growth the vegetable growth is a magnificent symbol. R29:4*
First the blade -- Showing varied experiences over many days before it
is finally harvested. R5049:6
Then the ear -- The Savior seems to use the idea of progression in three
steps in reference to the development of the Gospel age, ending with the
harvest. R211:4*
The full corn -- Unwavering trust in the Lord, abiding rest of soul,
zeal in God's service, is a matter of growth. R5912:6
Mark 4:29
Is brought forth -- The gathering for the heavenly garner will be

accomplished by the first resurrection. R5049:6
He putteth -- The same Lord of the Jewish age harvest is now present
directing the work of the Gospel age harvest. R1742:2
Harvest -- Greek: therismos; reaping harvest. R223:1
"The harvest is the end of the age." (Matt. 13:39) R5049:6
Is come -- The present is the harvest time of the Gospel age. R1742:1
Mark 4:30
The kingdom of God -- An interchangeable expression with "kingdom of

heaven." (Matt. 13:31) R397:1
This parable represents the kingdom from the viewpoint of the world--as
the nominal church, developed from the original little seed of the true
Gospel. R5049:6, 2634:6
Mark 4:31
It is like -- Different parables view the embryo kingdom from a variety

of angles. This parable represents the kingdom from the viewpoint of the
world--as the nominal church. R5049:6
Grain of mustard seed -- The original little seed of the true Gospel.
R5049:6
See Verse 30.
Mark 4:32
Great branches -- We have a great institution today with many

denominational branches. R5049:6
So prosperous as to invite the birds. R5406:5
So that -- It is the neglect to preach the Gospel of the "narrow way"
that has brought such prosperity and made it a desirable place for the
fowls of the air, Satan and his deluded ones. R5050:1
The fowls of the air -- The wicked one and his angels--Satan and his
representatives. R5049:6, 5406:5, 4636:2, 2634:6
May lodge under the shadow -- As the real life of ecclesiasticism.
R5050:1
Babylon, nominal Christendom, "the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage
of every unclean and hateful bird." (Rev. 18:2) R2634:6, 5406:5, 5050:1,
4636:3
Mark 4:34
But without a parable -- This was the customary way for Jesus to preach.
CR250:2
Not easily understood. If our Lord's parables and dark sayings be taken as
plain, literal statements of truth, they will lead to all kinds of errors
and misapprehensions. R4644:1
Mark 4:35
When -- About two years into the Lord's ministry. R3324:1

The even was come -- After 3:00 P.M. R3324:1
The past eighteen centuries have been a dark night in which the only light
available has been "thy Word, a light to my feet." (Psa. 119:105) R3325:4
Let us pass over -- Because he was tired from his teaching and healing,
in which vitality went out of him for the relief of the people. R5058:3
Unto the other side -- For a season of rest and refreshment. R5058:3
Mark 4:36
They -- From the various accounts we judge that all twelve disciples
were with him, and apparently other "men"--seamen, as Matthew's account
implies. R3324:1
In the ship -- One of the boats formerly used by some of his disciples
and still owned by them. R5058:3
Mark 4:37
Arose a great storm -- "The prince of the power of the air" (Eph. 2:2)
probably had something to do in the development of this storm. R3324:2
The storms may seem to come from the world, but really beyond the world is
the Adversary. R3325:4, 3324:2
We do not wish to intimate that every storm is of Satanic origin, but we
do hold that some of them are supernatural and of the Adversary. (See Job
1:13, 19) R3324:5
Picturing the experiences of the Church, being tempest-tossed all through
the dark night of this Gospel age. R3325:1,2
The great time of trouble with which this age will end. R5329:5
The long reign of sin and death has been one continuous storm. R5239:5
There are storms of life which sometimes sweep over ourselves, the
brethren and the whole household, and imperil us and seem sure to sink us
in despair. R5058:3
These storms may be right inside our own person, of passion, anger,
resentment, trials. R5239:5
It must not surprise us if a dark hour is before us, if the time will come
when the stormy winds will be so fierce that many will cry out in fear and
trembling. R3325:4
Compare comments on Psa. 46:1, 2.
Of wind -- The Sea of Galilee is quite subject to wind storms. R3324:2
Funnelled through profound ravines and wide gorges from the surrounding
plateaus. R3324:2*
Beat into the ship -- If our faith be strong enough under such
circumstances, we would keep on with our proper endeavors to adjust
matters, corresponding to the bailing of the boat and the working of the
oars; but also maintain an implicit faith that "all things work together
for our good." R3324:6
Mark 4:38
Asleep on a pillow -- Evidently thoroughly exhausted from the labors of

his journey and ministry. R3324:3
The Lord's providence had something to do with this prolonged sleep, in
order to put the faith of the disciples to the test. R3324:3
It has seemed to the Church at times as though the Lord were asleep,
inattentive to the prayers of his faithful, and inattentive to their cries
and groans. R3325:1
They awake him -- Whoever can, by the exercise of his faith, take hold
upon the Lord will find a great peace, a great calm come into his heart
and into all of his affairs. R5058:6
Carest thou not that we perish? -- We are to cry for the Lord's help
that we may be overcomers of the storms within us, of passion, anger,
resentment. R5239:5
In the day of wrath the cry of the people will much resemble the cry of
the apostles. R5823:6
The slightly different accounts given by Matthew, Mark, and Luke are all
correct. One disciple cried out in one way and others in different words.
R3324:3
Mark 4:39
Said unto the sea -- Representing the restless, turbulent, dissatisfied

masses of the world. A318
Peace, be still -- Same Greek word used by our Lord to the demon,
suggesting the storm was the work of Satan. (Mark 1:25) R3324:4
He who declined to ask the heavenly power for angelic protection (Matt.
26:53), was perfectly at liberty to call upon these powers in the
interests of his followers. F650
Illustrating the manner in which the day of trouble will end. A171;
R5767:4; OV228:3
When the people cry to the Lord from the depth of their hearts, he will be
ready to deliver them. R5823:6
Will come through Messiah's Kingdom speaking thus. R5601:2
This great storm will be much greater before the Lord will step in and
say, Peace. R5696:1
The wind ceased -- Our Lord's ministry is supposed to have covered two
years at the time of this miracle. R3324:1
There was a great calm -- "He maketh the storm a calm." (Psa. 107:29)
R3324:1
A picture of the great rest from the evil one for a thousand years. R3325:4
The wind might naturally suddenly stop, but waters, thus lashed to a fury,
could not be calmed thus quickly except by superhuman power. R3324:4
Yet he declined to ask the heavenly power for angelic protection in
Gethsemane. (Matt. 26:53) F650
In the storms of life whoever can by faith take hold upon the Lord will
find a great peace and calm come into his heart and all his affairs.
R5058:3,6
Mark 4:40
So fearful -- We cannot enjoy the sufferings, but we can enjoy the

thought which faith attaches to them, namely, that these are but light
afflictions working out for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of
glory. R3325:1
Ye have no faith -- "Without faith it is impossible to please God."
(Heb. 11:6) "According to thy faith be it unto thee." (Matt. 9:29) "All
things are possible to him that believeth." (Mark 9:23) R3324:6
Has your faith not yet developed to such a degree that you can fully trust
me? R3324:5
We also have need of faith and need of tests to our faith. R3324:5
As lesson after lesson comes to us, the Master will expect, and we should
expect of ourselves, greater faith, greater trust, greater peace. R3325:1
Mark 4:41
What manner of man -- The experience was a valuable lesson showing the
wonderful power of God exerted through their Master; and the same lesson
is for us. R5058:3
Mark 5
Mark 5:2
Immediately -- The story of the demons is connected with that of the

storm on the sea, intimating that the demons will have considerable to do
with stirring up the great "time of trouble." R5059:1
Out of the tombs -- As there were no asylums at the time, the maniacs,
demonized, were subject to the private care of their friends. R3771:6
An unclean spirit -- Obsessed--that is to say, demons, the fallen angels
mentioned in Jude 6 and 2 Peter 2:4 had gained access, and were in control
of him. R5059:1
We should expect similar possessions today. In our judgment a large
proportion of the so-called insane are in just that condition. R3771:3
They could not materialize, so the next best thing was to try to get
possession of human bodies. Q671:T
Those who deny the personality of Satan must logically also deny the
personality of demons, so frequently referred to in the Scriptures. R3771:3
While mankind are not all possessed of devils, through the spirit of evil
they are all more or less possessed with the spirit of demons, the spirit
of selfishness and thus, slightly insane, some more so, some less so.
R3773:1
Being debarred from all association with God, these fallen angels have no
longer any pleasure in things on the spiritual plane, but crave
association with depraved mankind and a participation with him in sin.
R1678:3
Mark 5:3
Had his dwelling -- Having broken his cords and fetters and having left
his home. R3771:6
Mark 5:4
Plucked asunder -- Manifesting a wonderful strength. R3771:6
Mark 5:6
Afar off -- He must have seen the boat coming across the lake of Galilee,
because he met Jesus immediately upon the landing of the ship.
(Verse 2) R3772:1
Mark 5:7
To do with thee -- The expression "What have I to do with thee?" might

be more literally rendered, "What have we in common?" R3772:2
There is nothing in common between the Lord and spirit mediums, hypnotism,
mental science, Christian Science, etc.; and none should have anything
whatever to do with them. R3772:2
Son of the most high God -- The demons, fallen angels, recognized Jesus
and spoke through the man's lips. R5059:1
While the Pharisees said, "Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph?" (John
6:42) R1680:1
Torment me not -- Apparently Jesus had already begun to command the
unclean spirit to come out. R3772:1
Demon's answer to the command of Jesus. R5059:1
The demons apparently understood God had a time appointed which would mark
the limitation of their liberties and opportunities in connection with the
tormenting of mankind by obsession. R3772:1
"Art thou come to torment us before the time?" (Matt. 8:29) R3772:1
The demons thus implied that an interference with their tormenting of
mankind would be an injury to their rights. R3772:1
There are many amongst men who have similarly perverted notions of what
are their rights, to impose upon others, to defraud, mislead, injure,
pillage. R3772:2
Mark 5:8
Come out -- This miracle was a demonstration of the power of the Lord
over evil spirits. A lesson intended more for the Lord's people of the
Gospel age. R3772:5
Of the man -- This poor man is an extreme example of all out of whom the
spirit of evil is cast through the power of the truth. R3773:2
Mark 5:9
What is thy name? -- We may suppose that the Lord knew the man was
possessed of a great number of fallen spirits, but brought out the answer
for the sake of his disciples and the others crowded about. R3772:2
Legion: for we are many -- About 2000, as indicated by the number of
swine. R4976:2, 5059:4, 3772:5
So anxious were the demons to possess human bodies that there was a legion
of them in one man. Q671:T
Hypnotism, mesmerism, clairaudient power and clairvoyant power are all
part and parcel of the same great deception. R5059:5
Anxious in some manner to become associated with humanity, yet unable to
assume human form, when they found a man willing, a legion crowded into
him, thereby making him a maniac. R1678:4, 3772:3
Mark 5:10
He besought him -- The demons realized that they were subject to the
commands of Jesus. R5059:2
Not send them away -- The evil spirits apparently do not have special
pleasure in their own company, and are debarred from all intercourse with
the holy angels. R3772:3
Out of the country -- To the abyss--to the second death, to utter
Mark 5:11
Swine feeding -- Swine were condemned under the Jewish Law, and may
therefore have been considered contraband. R3772:4
While the Jews did not eat swine's flesh, the foreigners did, especially
the Roman soldiers, and the swine industry must have been a very lucrative
one. R3772:4
The Jews of the vicinity were probably favorable to the industry, being
interested in its prosperity; in the same manner farmers are interested in
the prosperity of breweries, because through them they find a market for
their crops. R3772:4 Scholars are of the opinion that this part of the
country was largely inhabited by foreigners, the owners of large herds of
swine. R3772:4
Mark 5:12
And all the devils -- They did not attempt to deny their identity, but
admitted Jesus' lordship and power over them. F626
Obviously spirit beings. Those who deny obsession must account for the
transfer of a disease of the mind from a man to a herd of two thousand
hogs. R3772:5
Besought him -- Apparently evil spirits cannot impose themselves, even
upon dumb animals, until granted some sort of permission. R2173:3, 4976:3
Demonstrating that they cannot trouble us except as we permit them, or
tamper with, or allow our minds to come under their hypnotic or obsessing
influence. R4976:3
Into the swine -- Rather than have no animal body at all, they prefer to
have the bodies of swine. R4976:3
May enter into them -- To obsess them. R5059:2
The entertainment of evil thoughts, the practice of vicious habits, seems
to break down the will and give admittance to these evil spirits to have
control of it. R3772:3
Mark 5:13
Jesus gave them leave -- Demonstrating evil spirits cannot trouble us

except as we permit them. R4876:3
The herd ran violently -- Swine are not easily stampeded; if you want
them to move you must whip everyone of them. R4976:2
They were crazed by the strange outside influence which took possession of
their brains. R5059:4
Man, with his higher organism, is able apparently to stand much more
mental torment than the brute creation. R3772:5
Two thousand -- This part of the country may have been largely inhabited
by foreigners, the owners of large herds of swine. R3772:4
There were enough demons to enter the whole herd. R4976:2
Were choked -- Swine were condemned under the Jewish Law, and may
therefore have been considered contraband and their destruction
authorized. R3772:4
Because unwilling to cooperate for their own deliverance, mankind's help
must come in another way--by the fall of present institutions. R3772:6
Mark 5:14
And told it -- To clear themselves of responsibility and to tell them

that the man who caused the difficulty was still near the spot. R3772:5
Mark 5:15
Clothed -- In his insanity he had torn off clothing and everything, but
now peace and serenity reigned. R3772:6
Thank God for the clothing which we have in Christ's robe of
righteousness, covering our blemishes and imperfections, the bruises of
sin and the injury which we did to ourselves. R3773:2
In his right mind -- Released from his obsession. R5059:4
Sane enough, when rid of the evil influence. R4976:3
Thank God that we can now see things from the better standpoint, from the
only true standpoint. R3773:2
Mark 5:17
To depart out -- Disregarding the healing of the man, selfishness

reigned. If Jesus remained their hog business might be wrecked. R3772:6
This is exactly the reasoning of many in respect to the liquor traffic.
R3772:6
They loved better the ways of sin than the promised ways of righteousness.
R3773:1
Instead of desiring others to be similarly helped, they reasoned on the
selfish side of the question, that his continued presence might wreck the
business and economy of this prosperous country. R3772:6
Wherever the truth goes it creates a division and an uproar. R1633:3
Mark 5:18
Might be with him -- "To you, who believe, he is precious." (1 Pet. 5:7)
R3773:2
Perhaps fearful of being repossessed by the demons, perhaps ashamed of his
previous course of life and old associates; but more probably to be a
witness to the Lord. R3773:2
He wanted to preach to others of the great deliverance which he had
experienced and to tell them of this further proof that Jesus was the
Messiah. R5059:4
Mark 5:19
Jesus suffered him not -- Because it was not in harmony with the Lord's
judgment of the Father's will. R5059:4
While Jesus refused the request, he did not spurn the consecration. R3773:3
Go home -- If we cannot be the apostles to follow his footsteps, we can
go to our own homes and to our friends and there confess the Lord and his
mighty power in us. R3773:4
And tell them -- Our Lord's journey on this occasion seems to have
resulted in the conversion of but one person, the demoniac, his subsequent
work there being done through him. R3773:4
How great things -- We should not only witness with our lips, but in all
the departments of our life, testifying that we are now sane, that we now
have the "spirit of a sound mind." (2 Tim. 1:7) R3773:5
Mark 5:20
And he departed -- Our Lord did not force himself upon them. R3773:1
Had done for him -- Our Lord's journey seems to have resulted in the
conversion of but one person, the demoniac, his subsequent work there
being done through him. R3773:4
Mark 5:22
There cometh -- While Jesus was enjoying the banquet at the house of
Matthew. (Matt. 9:18) R2617:2
Rulers of the synagogue -- In charge of its affairs, inviting readers,
managing its schools, etc. R2617:1
According to the custom of that time he was, therefore, a member of the
local Sanhedrin, the court which tried certain classes of offenders.
R2617:1
Jairus -- As a man of high station, no doubt he was acquainted with the
noblemen of the same city whose son Jesus had healed. (John 4:46-53)
R2617:1
Mark 5:27
Touched his garment -- The methods of restitution will doubtless be as

varied as were the methods employed by Jesus in healing diseases at his
first advent. One touched the hem of his garment, another stretched forth
his withered hand, for another he prayed. R759:3
Mark 5:30
Virtue had gone out of him -- Life, vitality, vigor. "Himself took our
infirmities and bare our sicknesses" (Isa. 53:4; Matt. 8:17), a prophecy
that has had its fulfillment. R2028:5, 3885:6, 1359:3, 133:1; A230; E125;
F633
The Master was not merely using a divine power, but was using up his own
physical power for man's relief. R5104:1, 454:3
Vitality, strength. During his ministry he was continually imparting his
vitality to the suffering ones around him, thus impoverishing himself.
R1359:4,3; E125; SM651:2
He did not partake of sin, nor did he share in imperfection, except as he
voluntarily shared the sorrows and pains of some during his ministry,
taking their pains and infirmities as he imparted to them his vitality,
health and strength. A230
Jesus experienced the woes and sufferings of humanity without sharing in
the imperfections and sins. He suffered for those around him, and made use
of his own vitality in healing their diseases. R454:3
It is a fact coming daily to be more recognized among scientific men, that
some persons possess greater vitality than others, and possessing more can
communicate it to others who have less. R574:4
The greater the number healed, the greater was our Lord's loss of vitality
and strength. E124
No wonder he was "a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief." (Isa. 53:3)
R574:5
"Touched with the feeling of our infirmities." (Heb. 4:15) R1359:4,
2028:6; E126
To bless and heal in mind and body the sinners about him was part of his
dying. SM645:1
Turned him about -- We can imagine the feelings of Jairus in consequence
of this delay; while it added to his faith in the power of Jesus, it at
the same time tested his faith in respect to the recovery of his child.
R2617:2 Similarly, he gives us a ground for faith, and then, as we
exercise that faith and act in harmony with it, he gives fresh
corroboration; meanwhile testing it by permitting fresh difficulties,
contrary suggestions, doubts, fears, etc. R2617:3
Mark 5:34
Thy faith -- Some were healed in answer to their own faith and some in
answer to the faith of another. (Verses 23, 42) R759:3
Mark 5:35
Why troublest thou -- Hope is gone, submit to the inevitable. R2617:3
Mark 5:36
Only believe -- Divine promises and blessings are to the faithful

only--both as respects the present and the eternal life. R2617:4
Faith, not credulity, is the prime essential of an "overcomer." R2617:3
Mark 5:37
Peter, and James, and John -- The Lord evidently loves fervency (warmth)
of spirit or disposition. R2617:4
Not a selfish partiality, but rather as an indication that these three,
specially zealous amongst the apostles, were further advanced in spiritual
things, and best able to appreciate the privileges granted them. R2617:4
Noting our Lord's appreciation of zeal should lead all who are his
followers today to strive after greater fervency of spirit. R2617:4
Mark 5:38
Seeth the tumult -- The preparations for the burial were far advanced at
the time of our Lord's arrival, for it was the Jewish custom to have a
speedy burial after death. R2617:5
Them that wept -- Matthew designates them as "minstrels." R2617:5
Mark 5:39
But sleepeth -- A common word for death in both the Old and the New
Testaments. (1 Kings 2:10; Acts 7:60; 1 Cor. 15:51; 1 Thes. 4:14) R2617:5,
2197:6
Since there is to be an awakening of the dead, Jesus spoke of death as
sleep, a period of rest, of quiet, of unconsciousness. R5059:6, 2617:6,
1939:4
He spoke in the same manner of the death of Lazarus. R5059:3, 5611:5,
2617:5
He did not say she was in heaven or in purgatory or in hell. R5611:5
Our word cemetery means "sleeping place." R2617:5
Heaven is not a sleeping place, but a place of joyful activity and life.
Neither could we imagine mankind sleeping in a Catholic purgatory, nor in
a Protestant hell of eternal torture. R5060:1
Dr. Trench: "Thereby the reality of death is not denied, but only the fact
implicitly assumed that death will be followed by a resurrection, as sleep
is followed by an awakening." R2617:5
The Talmud contains the expression "when he slept" hundreds of times, as
signifying the time of death. R2617:5
The second death is never called "sleep." R1939:4
Mark 5:40
Laughed him to scorn -- Not appreciating what he meant, even as the

disciples did not appreciate the word "sleep" when used in connection with
Lazarus. R2617:5
Mark 5:41
Talitha cumi -- In the ordinary Aramaic dialect of the people, a term of

endearment to a young maiden. The words are equivalent to, "Rise, my
child."--Alford R2618:2
Greek, egeiro, meaning "to awaken, arouse, stir: (Liddell and Scott); a
word used in speaking of the temporary awakenings of our Lord's miracles.
R1512:2
Mark 5:42
The damsel arose -- Awakened temporarily, not counted as a resurrection.

OV352:1; R360:2
A foreshadowing, typifying or illustrating the resurrection. R4603:4
Jesus was "the first fruits of them that slept." (1 Cor. 15:20) Christ
should be the "first that should rise from the dead." (Acts 26:23) R2618:4
He merely awakened her, leaving her upon the same plane of death on which
she had been born, and had thus far lived for twelve years. R2617:6
Nowhere is this designated a resurrection. R2617:1, 2618:2, 360:2 She did
not come back from heaven or from hell; was not resurrected, but merely
awakened out of the sleep of death. R2618:2
Our Lord's miracles were merely illustrations of the great work which he
will do on a world-wide, gigantic scale by and by--through the power and
influence of his kingdom. R5060:4
Mark 5:43
Given her to eat -- Indicating that the revived ones (in the Millennium)
will require clothing, nourishment, and assistance, and will acquire
strength gradually. R734:2
Mark 6
Mark 6:3
The carpenter -- Tradition declares Joseph died while Jesus was yet
young. This scripture gives it support. Jesus is called a carpenter,
Joseph is ignored. R2559:5
His sisters -- Showing the fallacy to the Roman doctrine that teaches
that Mary is "ever a virgin." R560:2*
They were offended -- Although his first miracle was performed in
Galilee, his first reputation was gained in Judea and at Jerusalem, and he
had more honor on his return from there to his home country. R4132:3
Mark 6:6
And he marvelled -- The only other instance where Jesus "marvelled" was
at the faith shown by the Roman centurion. R3755:6
Mark 6:7
Unclean spirits -- The fallen angels. R2173:2
Mark 6:8
Take nothing -- Israel was a covenant people and it was their duty to
receive and entertain the messengers of the Lord. The receiving or
rejecting of them would be a test of their fidelity to God. R1988:2, 1743:1
An instruction reversed at the end of his ministry. Henceforth they should
go out in no wise dependant upon the people. (Luke 22:35-37) R1988:4
No scrip -- Valise or satchel. They were not to take up any collections
or have anything wherein to carry a surplus. R2261:6
These instructions, afterwards changed by the Lord, are not applicable to
the present time. R2500:2
Mark 6:11
Shake off the dust -- To symbolize renouncement of all responsibility

for the consequences of their rejecting the message. R2262:4
A testimony against them -- Their receiving or rejecting of the apostles
would be a test of their fidelity to God as his covenant people. R1988:2,
1743:1
More tolerable -- Implying that it will be tolerable for both classes in
any event. R1618:4, 5076:4
The Sodomites will be of the class to be restored by resurrection
processes. R5314:5; HG647:6
Day of judgment -- So now; professed followers of Christ who have turned
a deaf ear to the message of truth will be less favored in the kingdom
than will the heathen. R5980:4
Than for that city -- The people of Bethsaida, Chorazin and Capernaum
were regular attendants of the synagogues--decent people, having a form of
godliness, but knowing little or nothing of its power. HG647:6
The destruction upon Sodom and Gomorrah was less awful than that upon
Jerusalem at the close of the Jewish "harvest." R2262:4
In the Millennium conditions will be favorable even for the people of
Galilee who were not moved to repentance and discipleship by the Lord's
miracles; but still more tolerable for those of Sodom. R3348:5
Mark 6:12
Repent -- A prerequisite to salvation. R1437:2

Nowhere in the Scripture is eternal life promised to any except on
conditions of faith in Christ the Redeemer, and repentance, or change of
heart from sin to righteousness. R1437:2
Mark 6:14
King Herod -- A tetrarch, the ruler of a fourth part of the kingdom.

R3777:6
Antipas; the son of "Herod the Great" who slew the babes of Bethlehem.
R3777:6
Mark 6:16
It is John -- Possibly his evil experiences brought him some lessons.

R2638:1
Mark 6:17
For Herod himself -- Typifying the kings of the earth; civil power.
B261; R2280:4, 1754:4
Laid hold upon John -- He had preached only about a year. R3325:2
Typifying the Church in the harvest of the Gospel age. B261; R2280:4,
1754:4
There is a gradual beginning where the voice of conscience is heard, but
if unheeded its voice grows more and more faint and its influence in the
control of life less and less potent. R3777:2
Bound him in prison -- In the palace at Machaerus, which was also a
fortress. R3778:5
Where he remained about a year before execution. R3325:2
No doubt fearing that, unreproved and unchecked, this conduct might lead
to disorders in the realm. R3778:3
Typifying the "dark night" in which no man can labor in the "harvest"
work. (John 9:4) R1754:5
Typifying the coming restraint of the Church's liberties. B261; R2280:5
For Herodias' sake -- A beautiful and ambitious woman, a descendant of
Cleopatra, a granddaughter of Herod the Great. R3777:6
A vain woman, without conscience, who, for ambition's sake, had dared
everything that she might occupy the place of a queen. R5068:3, 3778:4
In the case of Herodias we see illustrated the power of ambition, and how
important it is that our ambitions be noble, true and pure. R2636:3
Typifying the unfaithful nominal church. B261
Philip's wife -- Her oldest uncle, supposing that to him would fall the
kingdom honors at the hands of the Roman emperor. R3777:6, 2636:2
For he had married her -- King Herod had put away his own wife, and was
living unlawfully with the wife of his brother Philip. R5068:3
When Herod came to Rome to be invested with royal honors, she arranged to
entertain him, and there entangled him with her personal charms, so that
when he departed for his personal dominion, she eloped with him. R3777:6,
2636:2
Mark 6:18
For John had said -- Perhaps acting imprudently and exceeding his duty.
R3326:2
A seeming lack of wisdom on John's part until we recall the typical
character of John. R1754:4
The Greek text intimates that this was not said once merely, but rather as
though it read, "John was saying"--was teaching continuously that there
was wrong at the very head of the nation. R3778:2
Unto Herod -- Who was not an Israelite, but a Gentile. R1754:4
It is not lawful -- Also mentioning that this was likely to bring upon
the people a war, for his wife whom he had put away was the daughter of
King Aretas. R5068:6, 3780:1, 3778:1, 2637:6
As the Jewish nation was a covenant nation, John was probably within the
proprieties of the case in denouncing a ruler of the Jews, while making no
criticism of the other rulers of the earth not under divine law and
covenant. R3778:2
We are to remember that Jesus made no comment along this line. Nothing in
John's course should be construed as a special example of what we should
do today in respect to public functionaries. R3778:2
John's mission was that of a reprover and reformer and, as a prophet, he
was supernaturally guided in his course. Our Lord's mission was a
different one. R2621:5
For church and civil power to be united. B261; R1754:4
It is not for us to sit in judgment on the course of John the Baptist, but
we are inclined to think that he exceeded his duty in his criticism of the
king and queen. R3326:2
We, like John, must by our teachings and example declare unlawful the
proposed and sure-to-come union between church and civil government.
R1754:4
Thy brother's wife -- His own niece. R3778:2
Mark 6:19
A quarrel -- Herodias was both angry and fearful--angry that he should

dare speak of her relationship to the king; fearful, lest his eloquent
words, moving the masses, might alienate her from the king. R5068:6
As the course of John incurred her wrath, so the course of the John
class--the true Church--will incur the wrath of the ecclesiastical power.
R1754:5
But she could not -- Intimating that John's imprisonment was in part at
least to protect him from the wrath of Herodias, who might have hired
assassins. R3778:3
Mark 6:20
Herod feared John -- There is an intimation that John's imprisonment was

in part at least to protect him from the anger of Herodias. R3778:3
Herod feared John and the people who believed John to be a prophet, but
Herodias feared neither God nor man. R5069:1
Two great characters contrasted. (See article for details of the
contrast.) R3779:2
A just man -- A man who was following his conscience in a right course
to the best of his ability. R3778:3
And observed him -- The Revised Version expresses it, "kept him safe,"
possibly fearing that if John were set at liberty Herodias would find
agents for his destruction. R2637:2
He did many things -- Apparently John had unusual liberties in prison.
His disciples had opportunities to come and bear messages to and from him.
R2637:2
Heard him gladly -- The intimation of the Greek is that Herod gave John
frequent hearings, heard him willingly, but was much perplexed. R3778:4,
5069:1, 2637:2
It was a shock to Herodias that the king would have heard John patiently,
and even have seemed interested in him, and considered him a prophet of
the Lord God. R2637:1
Thus we presume it will be more tolerable for the King of Sodom than for
King Herod in the day of judgment. R3779:5
Mark 6:21
On his birthday -- These birthday feasts were occasions of carousal.

R2637:3
A supper -- Such festivals were attended by men alone, and bountifully
supplied not only with food but also with beverages, as a result of which
the whole company would become quite convivial. R3778:6
At the palace fortress of Machaerus where Herod was preparing for the war
with the King of Arabia. R3778:5
Lords, high captains -- A patriotic rally to assure himself of the favor
and good will of all his under lords and influential subordinates. R3778:5
Mark 6:22
Daughter of the said Herodias -- Probably fourteen at the time of their

marriage of Herod and Herodias. R2636:3
Educated in Rome, beautiful and attractive. R2637:3
The dancing girls were usually from the lower classes. She would make a
special impression upon all by sending her daughter, a granddaughter of
Herod the Great, to perform this part. R3778:6, 2637:3
Typifying united Protestantism. R2280:5
Danced -- A rare treat, a high honor to the king. R2637:3
So great a condescension by Herodias' own daughter implied that the king
should make some return. R5069:1
Whatsoever thou wilt -- It was customary to remunerate the dancing girls
liberally on such occasions, in proportion to the dignity of the
entertainer. R2637:3, 3778:6
Mark 6:23
Unto the half -- Similarly, many a wealthy voluptuary has foolishly

spent thousands and hundreds of thousands upon actresses and other
conscienceless women in our day. R3778:6
Mark 6:24
What shall I ask? -- The crafty woman had kept the design wholly within
her own grasp. Her daughter should not know in advance, lest she should
make some error. R2637:4
An illustration of parental influence. Evil as Herodias was, she evidently
had retained the affection of her daughter and her absolute confidence and
obedience. R3326:4
Not even Salome knew of the price she was expected to ask. R3778:6
If she demurred to ask for John's head, the mother probably told her that
both of them would sooner or later be outcasts; that his death was
necessary. R5069:2
And she said -- Yet Herodias was not saved from the fate she dreaded.
History records that within ten years her ambition prompted Herod to
solicit Rome for an additional dignity. His request was refused, he was
deprived of his dominion and banished to Lyons in Gaul, where he died.
R3326:6, 2637:6
The head of John -- Someone has paraphrased it thus: "Little fool, you
know not what you ask; what would all these things be to you and me
unqueened and outcast, as we may be any day if John the Baptist live?"
R3326:5
Her ambition had not thus far hesitated at anything, why should it
hesitate even at murder, now in its greatest extremity? R2637:1
The beginning of temptation is to be drawn away of desire, of
ambition--enticed thereby. When it has conceived it bringeth forth sin;
and sin when it is finished bringeth forth death. (Jas. 1:14, 15) R2637:4
Mark 6:25
With haste -- Haste was deemed necessary lest the king's ardor should
cool and his better judgment take control. R3326:5
In a charger -- One of the large platters used at the feast. R3326:5
John the Baptist -- A great and holy man, a prophet of the Lord, he will
have a great reward in the future with all the holy prophets, coming forth
from the death-state perfect because he was found faithful, even unto
death. R5069:2
Mark 6:26
Was exceeding sorry -- He was grieved, yet not being humble or

God-fearing, but merely proud and man-fearing, he felt bound by his oath.
R5069:2
Even the weak and despicable Herod was shocked by the request. R2637:4
An indication that his heart was not utterly corrupt; but that he should
yield to what he knew to be wrong, through pride, is an evidence of utter
lack of character. R2637:6
Many have found themselves like Herod, led step by step, by what seems to
them to be fate, beyond their control. R2637:5
For his oath's sake -- The king's honor (?) was maintained. R5069:2
From his wrong standpoint of view, duty appeared to lie on the other side.
R2637:5
For a king to break his oath, made in the presence of his nobles, would
imply that he was a man devoid of all principle and character. R3779:1
Many things that are highly esteemed amongst men are an abomination in the
sight of God. (Luke 16:15) R3779:1
For their sakes -- The only proper method is to recognize and obey the
voice of the Lord, regardless of how matters may seem to fallen man.
R2637:6
And, we might add, for pride's sake. R3779:1
Alas, poor world! How many are its snares of pride in the wrong things,
and in fear of the wrong person! R5069:2
Would not reject her -- Not being a humble man, nor God-fearing; but
merely a proud man with a man-fearing spirit, he found himself bound to
comply with his own oath given in the presence of those great men. R5069:4
In proportion as Herod had great opportunities and defiled and degraded
his conscience, in the same proportion he will awaken in the resurrection
morning in a low condition morally. R3779:4
Mark 6:27
Sent an executioner -- Thus showing his greatness as a king, his respect

for his illustrious company, and his high standard of value for his oath
and his authority--but the Scriptures declare that things highly esteemed
amongst men are an abomination in the sight of God. R3779:1
Beheaded him -- John the Baptist was the last of the prophets. R1754:1
As John never emerged from that prison, save to enter the deeper dungeon
of the grave, so the Church's only deliverance in the "dark night" will be
through the valley of the shadow of death. R1754:5
Evidently John's course was finished. Consequently their was no effort on
the Lord's part to interfere with the powers of darkness that for a year
restrained John's liberty and finally took his life. R1754:2
He had fulfilled his mission, proving his worthiness of a distinguished
place in the earthly phase of the kingdom. R1754:2
We anticipate an attack upon the true Church, not upon the nominal system,
and, as in the case of John, a seemingly complete victory of the
Babylonish woman and her paramour, the world, over the faithful members of
the Body of Christ in the flesh. R3326:6
In the prison -- In the palace fortress of Machaerus, where he had
sought to remove him from Herodias and her particular influence. R3778:5
Mark 6:29
His disciples -- John's disciples who had become disciples of Jesus.
R1754:2
Laid it in a tomb -- John will get everlasting life as a glorious
portion, but he will not be a member of the Bride class. R5069:4
Mark 6:30
And the apostles -- Returning at the time when Herod had cruelly
beheaded John, and astonished that God would permit such an unjust
procedure. So we, too, are frequently astonished to note to how great an
extent providence permits the prosperity of the "prince of this world."
R4890:2,3
Gathered themselves together -- Returned from the mission work to which
the Lord sent them two by two. No doubt there was a fixed time for their
return and Capernaum was probably the rendezvous. R3779:3
From preaching in Galilee to take counsel of the Lord. R1754:2
By the news of John's death and the possible effect upon their work of
this sudden outburst of royal wrath. R1754:2
Mark 6:31
Come ye yourselves apart -- Not turning aside from sin, for they had
already done this. CR34:3
As at conventions--while they cost considerable money, they nevertheless
are sources of great spiritual profit and refreshment. We should estimate
spiritual strength above financial cost, though not to the extent of
contracting debt. R3779:6
At conventions we turn aside from the busy scenes of daily life and strife
to fellowship with God and with each other. CR34:1
A desert place -- Just outside the border of Herod's dominion, near
Bethsaida. R2435:3, 1754:3
And rest a while -- Applies to merely physical rest from arduous and
incessant toil as preachers, and by no means an intimation that preaching
was not proper, not their special work. R890:2
He would not have us rest too long when other weary hearts are waiting for
our ministries of love and consolation. R1754:3
Here commune with me and the Father. Here tell us of what you have done
and what you have taught. Here examine carefully to see how correctly, how
truthfully, you have presented my message. R4890:3, 3779:3
The Lord never asks of us such busy labor as finds no time for resting at
his feet. R1754:3
Rest in the midst of your cares, trials and perplexities, a sweet rest of
mind, and peace. R1754:3
Many coming and going -- Being fully engaged in divine service, even
though greatly enjoying it, sometimes we do not have sufficient time for
eating the spiritual food that we may be properly refreshed and upbuilt.
R4890:4, 3779:3
So much as to eat -- Sometimes, when busy in the Lord's service and in
making provisions for our temporal needs, we do not have sufficient time
for eating the spiritual food. R4890:4
It is only to those who are serving the others, that the Master directly
hands the precious viands. R890:3
Mark 6:33
Many knew him -- Jesus' fame had spread abroad. R1754:3

Unto him -- On the mountain slopes on the north-eastern shore of the Sea
of Galilee. R2435:3
Mark 6:34
Saw much people -- In some respects pictures the world during the
Millennial age. R3781:4, 5087:6
Augmented by large caravans, which at that time were en route to Jerusalem
for the Feast of Passover. R3780:5, 2435:3
Moved with compassion -- Instead of being angry that his endeavor for
privacy and rest should be thus intruded upon by people for whom he had
already done so much. R3780:1
Such will be the spirit of all the Lord's followers. Their delight will
be, not in self-gratification, but in doing good "unto all men as they
have opportunity, especially to the household of faith." (Gal. 6:10)
R2435:4
Not having a shepherd -- They had a soul-hunger which their
forms, ceremonies, rituals, could not satisfy. R5087:2
He was the true Shepherd and ready at all times to fulfil his mission, to
lay down his very life for the sheep--not only at Calvary, but hourly and
daily during his ministry. R3780:2
Today, many of the Lord's people in Babylon are in a similar
condition--persuaded that we are living in remarkable times, but without
political or religious shepherds to guide them. R3780:2
Following blind guides and about to fall with them into the ditch of
Israel's great calamity. R2435:6
The common people always refer to the learned. The learned therefore have
the greater responsibility. This is in a large measure true today also.
R5087:2
Though they had synagogues, regular readings of the Scripture, scribes,
Pharisees, priests and Levites; they had a soul-hunger which the forms,
ceremonies, rituals and burdens bound upon them could not satisfy. R5087:2
Teach them many things -- He taught them much to their advantage, to
their comfort and as a preparation for their development, so that they
would by and by be prepared for the deeper things, which were for his
disciples only. R3780:3
We are to be specially on guard against choking the babes in Christ with
strong meat; but nevertheless we are not to allow them to starve, but to
give them the milk of the Word that they may grow thereby. R3780:4
Mark 6:35
Now far spent -- From another Gospel account it seems evident that,
after teaching the people, our Lord left them for a time and went with his
disciples apart on the hillside, where they reviewed their ministries.
R3780:4
Mark 6:37
Give ye them -- Thus associating his people with himself, blessing them
by these experiences even more than he blesses those to whom he sends them
with his mercies, temporal and spiritual. R3780:5
Thus the people were made more or less acquainted with the apostles, who
perhaps later on, after Pentecost, met many of them and, as the Master's
representative, bore to them the heavenly bread. R3781:2
Before sending the people away he instructs all who are his disciples to
supply them with something to eat, spiritual food, truths pertaining to
the kingdom, to afford some strength and encouragement for the dark hour
ahead. R2436:1
When anyone is present who is hungering and thirsting after righteousness,
we are to tell him the good tidings, no matter in what form they must be
presented, no matter how intolerable the conditions. R3333:5
Two hundred pennyworth -- About $32.00 (in 1905). R3503:2
Mark 6:38
Have ye -- How eager we should be that any little barley loaves we may
possess, any little fishes, any dollars and dimes, and shillings and
pence, any time and influence, might be used of the Lord in his blessed
work! R3781:2
Five, and two fishes -- The Lord takes our time and talents, little and
unworthy as these are, and blesses them and uses them in his service and
It is a matter of continual wonder to the enemies of the truth, as well as
to the slightly interested, that means never seem lacking for the
promulgation of the harvest message without resorting to appeals to the
world. R3781:2
Mark 6:39
Make all sit down -- They had learned to be obedient to whatever the
Master would propose, hence no objection to the command which would appear
to make them look foolish--preparing for a feast when apparently no feast
could be spread for them. R3780:5
Mark 6:40
They sat down -- They obeyed; the Lord did the rest. R3780:6
Mark 6:41
When he had taken -- While Scripturally dignified by the name of

sacrifice, yet really, to those who understand the situation properly, it
is the very reverse, a blessing, a privilege, a favor. R3781:2
The two fishes -- Hence discountenancing any claim of special sanctity
and acceptableness with God on account of vegetarianism. R3098:3
He looked up -- Christians should not neglect to render thanks for their
daily food; but mere outward acts of formalistic piety by others are not
pleasing to God. R2643:6, 2644:2
And blessed -- John's Gospel says, "He gave thanks." The giving of
thanks to God brought indeed a blessing upon the food. R3780:6
Gratitude to God is appropriate however simple our bill of fare; but we
might well refrain in public if our conduct would be misapprehended as
Pharisaism. R3781:1
How can we partake of food, recognizing that it is of God's bounty and
provision, without returning our thanks of acknowledgments? R3780:6
Undoubtedly food which is eaten in a pleasant and thankful attitude of
mind is more nourishing, more refreshing, than the same food if eaten in
unthankfulness or anger or with feelings of dissatisfaction. R3780:6,
2644:1
To his disciples -- The disciples were thus the better witnesses of the
power of the miracle, and the people were made acquainted with them.
R3781:2
The Lord could have fed the multitude without their help. R2644:4
Those who now follow the Lord will be privileged in the Millennial age to
distribute the bread of eternal life to all families of the earth. R3781:4
To set before them -- During the thousand years of Christ's reign, the
bread of life, the truth, will be freely distributed amongst all mankind.
R5087:6
Those who now follow the Lord as his special disciples will be supplied
abundantly in the kingdom with the bread of eternal life and will be
privileged to distribute it to all the families of the earth. R3781:4
Among them all -- The Lord's miracles of feeding and healing were
performed, not upon his consecrated disciples, but upon others. R1754:6
Mark 6:42
They did all eat -- Not sumptuously, not served in elegant and decorated
ware, not fine food, but plain barley bread and dried fish. R3781:1
Plainness and simplicity of food would not only be more healthful, but
would leave much more time for the spiritual refreshment, the bread from
heaven, and the service of the truth to others. R3781:1
Chief object of the miracle was to reinforce and establish the faith of
the apostles--effect upon the multitudes was secondary and similar. R1754:5
This miracle speaks to us of the power that our Lord will have in his
kingdom for providing for the necessities of the whole world. R5087:5
Not only attesting to our Lord's sympathy, but it also spoke volumes to
the people about the divine power that was in the Great Teacher. R5087:5
And were filled -- Skeptics who question this miracle cannot deny no
less a miracle whereby the barley of the loaves and the two fishes could
in due time, by natural processes, have brought forth enough of their kind
to feed the multitude. R3333:2
It was not merely a taste of food that the Lord provided, but a satisfying
portion--all had plenty. R3781:3 It would be better if we lived more upon
the plain substantials of life, and did not too much pamper our appetites
and encourage ourselves to eat beyond the point of proper satisfaction for
hunger. R3781:4
Mark 6:43
They took up -- While the Lord had abundance of power to create, he

would have his disciples note the principle of economy and practise it.
R3781:5, 2435:5
The Lord's people should be careful to avoid wasting, not because of
selfishness and a desire to accumulate, but, as the Apostle explains,
"that ye may have to give." (Eph. 4:28) R2435:6
Twelve baskets full -- Haversacks, in which the apostles carried their
provisions. R2435:5
None of God's provisions for his people are to be wasted. R3333:3
Those who distribute will find in the end their own vessels full. R2436:4
It was those who scattered to others who had their haversacks filled in
the end. Those who are most intent upon feeding others with the bread of
life are themselves most bountifully supplied. R3504:2
The memory is our "basket" in which to gather up in store for ourselves
and others every spiritual morsel. R2435:6
Of the fragments -- Not the fragments left by the multitude, but those
broken by our Lord and not distributed. R3781:4
Probably the fragments fingered by the multitude were left for the birds
and squirrels, and these were the fragments from the breaking of the bread
by the Lord. R3781:4
Let us take heed to the fragments, too, that we may render up a faithful
record of our stewardship, that the talents entrusted to us have not been
buried in the earth. R3781:6
Mark 6:44
About five thousand men -- Besides women and children. (Matt. 14:21)
R1754:3
Yet, when tempted in the wilderness, he refused to use divine power to
satisfy his own hunger. F650
Mark 6:45
To the other side -- To Galilee, Herod's territory, showing that our

Lord's conference with the disciples had a pacifying and strengthening
effect upon them. R2435:3
Mark 6:46
He departed -- For he "perceived that they would come and take him by
force to make him king." (John 6:15) R1754:6
To pray -- The Lord frequently spent whole nights in prayer and he
prayed earnestly and with many tears (Matt. 14:23; Mark 1:35; Luke 5:16;
6:22; Heb. 5:7) R1865:5
Nearly all of the Great Teacher's recorded prayers are simple and brief.
Whenever he wished to make long prayers he went to the Father alone. This
would be a good example for all to observe. R5095:3
We cannot come too often or tarry too long. R1865:3
Mark 6:47
When even was come -- The night-time of this Gospel age, with darkness
of error and superstition. R2650:4
The ship -- The boat and the twelve toiling rowers picture the Lord's
one true Church. R2650:3
Midst of the sea -- The stormy sea of the world's unparalleled trouble.
B191
He alone -- They had learned from previous experiences that, while the
Master was with them, all would be safe; but now he was absent. HG372:4
On the land -- He remained behind for this very purpose--that they might
have these experiences and that he might teach them a lesson thereby
respecting his providential care. HG372:5
Mark 6:48
Wind was contrary -- The adverse influences and fearful opposition that
come against the Church. "We wrestle not against flesh and blood." (Eph.
6:12) R2650:4
The storms and billows of trouble and persecution which may impede and
weary us. R2650:3
After the Master's ascension, no doubt the disciples felt themselves very
much alone in the midst of a contrary people and found progress difficult
and all of their experiences stormy. R5095:5
The fourth watch -- Between three and six o'clock A.M. R2650:2
As he comes to us in the early dawn of the Millennial Day. R2650:4
He cometh -- Picturing our Lord's second coming. B191; R2650:4
Unto them -- The Church, to rescue her from her toil and weariness and
peril. R2650:4; B191
Walking -- As the manner of his coming was different from that expected,
so the manner of the second advent differs. R2650:4
Upon the sea -- Picturing the stormy sea of the world's unparalleled
trouble. B191
Mark 6:49
A spirit -- An apparition, a spirit manifestation in human form. R5095:3

A hobgoblin, a phantom, in harmony with stories always told by the
seafaring. HG372:5
Some thought they had seen a supernatural being, and that it foreboded
some calamity. R2650:2
Mark 6:50
Were troubled -- The same apostles who here cried out in terror, grew
stronger and stronger in faith until they could and did trust the Lord in
his absence where they could not trace him. R3338:5
Be of good cheer -- No doubt it helped the disciples later to remember
the Master's ability to come to them on the troubled seas, and how his
coming brought peace and quiet. R5095:5
This precious lesson still holds good for the Lord's people, that he will
sanctify to them their deepest distress. R5095:6
It is the privilege of those who are fully consecrated to the Lord to be
cheerful, happy, even in the midst of unsatisfactory and painful
conditions. R4592:4, 2083:5, 1949:5 Cheerfulness is one of the loveliest
graces of the Christian character. R1123:2*
It is I -- Learn to look to me, to remember that, having become my
disciples, I have supervision over all your affairs, whether in storm or
in calm. HG372:5
Be not afraid -- "All things work together for good to them that love
God." (Rom. 8:28) Q272:2; R5058:6, 4784:2, 1607:5
Mark 6:51
The wind ceased -- When the Lord has joined himself to his Church the
trials, storms, difficulties and oppositions will be at an end and the
desired haven of the heavenly condition will be reached. R2650:5
Mark 6:52
They considered not -- They had already forgotten. R5095:3
Mark 6:54
They knew him -- Crowds continued to gather; partly for hearing, partly
from curiosity and partly because the message that he gave was one of
consolation, comfort and hope. R5095:2
Mark 6:56
Besought him -- Showing how interested people become in anything that

will relieve them of sickness. R5095:2
The crowds continued to gather wherever Jesus went--for hearing, from
curiosity, because his message was one of consolation, comfort, hope. he
was not forever blaming them for not keeping the Law. R5095:2
They might touch -- God's consecrated people have realized a blessing
also--a spiritual blessing--as Jesus passed their way, as by faith they
reached out and touched the hem of his garment. R5096:4
The border -- The corner. R5096:4
Were made whole -- In healing the sick, vitality went out from him and
he healed them all. All his public preaching also cost him considerable
vitality. R5096:4
Mark 7
Mark 7:2
With unwashen, hands -- We may be sure that Jesus set his followers no
example of filthiness or impurity. What Jesus objected to was a ceremonial
washing whether the hands were clean or unclean. R5096:5
What the Pharisees meant was a ceremonial washing whether the hands were
clean or unclean--to make a formal washing a part of their religion.
R5096:5
They found fault -- Every sect of Christendom today seems fully
persuaded that anything which would undermine the errors of their systems
would be injurious to the cause of the Lord. R3786:4
Mark 7:3
Wash their hands -- Consuming much time, and burdensome on the poor, who
had no servants to do these things for them, and not doing them, were
considered unclean. R5096:6
Had become an important part of the Jewish observance though nowhere found
in the Law. R2419:1
It was the making of such formal washing a part of their religion that
Jesus objected to. R5096:5
Tradition of the elders -- Jesus suited none of them. To the impure he
was too pure; to those of hypocritical profession he was too sincere; to
the worldly-wise he was too frank. R5096:3
Shaping their lives by the Talmud; so many Christians today, while
recognizing the Bible have their own theory, proof-texts and catechism.
R5096:2; OV260:1
The theories and opinions that had been formed and handed down from the
past that were not based upon the inspired testimonies of the prophets.
Q747:2
Creeds of the past. OV260:2
Protestant churches have departed from the pure Word of God and have
adopted human dogmas and traditions which make void the Word of God.
R1011:4*
Mark 7:5
Pharisees and scribes -- All the Higher Critics and Evolutionists

occupying the pulpits of Christendom are in exactly the position of the
scribes and Pharisees of old. SM301:1
Mark 7:6
With their lips -- "Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in
vain." (Exod. 20:7) "Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart
from iniquity." (2 Tim. 2:19) R1527:3
Heart is far from me -- The Lord regards anything short of simple candor
and honesty of heart with aversion. R1527:6 Christendom has hypocritically
pretended to make a covenant with the Lord, pretended to be his people,
while "their hearts were far from him." HG684:5
Mark 7:7
The commandments of men -- The Jews today regard the Old Testament as a
sealed book; instead of endeavoring to comprehend it, they study and shape
the course of their lives by the Talmud. R5096:2
So with Christendom; they read the Bible through the creed spectacles of
their sect. R5096:3
Not allowing our own wisdom or the wisdom of other men to make the Word of
God of none effect. HG653:3
Mark 7:8
The tradition of men -- While professing great Bible study, it is in

ruts and grooves, and so hampered by creed-chains that progress or growth,
or Bible-rearing is impossible. R780:5
Mark 7:9
Reject the commandment -- Both Jesus and the Pharisees claimed holiness
and strict observance of the divine Law, but Jesus held to the Word of God
and rejected the Talmud, and the Pharisees neglected the Word of God and
held to the traditions. R5096:6
Comparatively few of the "common people" of Christendom realize how
thoroughly the Word of God has already been rejected by the leading
Doctors of theology. R3015:1
Mark 7:10
For Moses said -- Attributing both one of the ten commandments (Exod.
20:12) and a law not in the Decalogue (Exod. 21:17) to Moses, thus showing
no distinction, as Adventists claim, between the Law of Moses and the Law
of God. HG583:6*
Mark 7:11
He shall be free -- The commandment had been changed by the Talmud and
any man might be free from honoring his parents by consecrating himself
and substance to God and religious uses. R5096:6
Mark 7:13
Of none effect -- Null and void, which they had no right to do. R5096:6
Thus they had not a proper conception of the manner and object of the
first advent. B241
And bringing you under a bondage that will hinder your growth in grace and
knowledge. R295:5
The traditions handed down from our forefathers make void, meaningless,
ungracious, the message of God's wisdom and love. OV260:2
How long will it require for people to learn that the Bible is so
thoroughly one, and its story one, that a repudiation of one part means
the repudiation of the whole? R3015:5
Through your tradition -- The theories and opinions that had been formed
and handed down from the past. Q747:2
There are true traditions (2 Thes. 2:15) and false traditions. All of
those which are in harmony with the divine Word are true; and all those
which are not in harmony are false and not to be accepted. Q747:2
And speculations--"vain philosophies and science falsely so-called." (1
Tim. 6:20) Q798:2
Jesus, our pattern and teacher, gave no authority for binding ourselves
with creeds and traditions. R295:5
The same is true of Christians today. Each denomination has its own
theory, its own proof-texts, its own catechism. R5096:2
Mark 7:16
Let him hear -- They must expect meekly to cast away many preconceived
opinions. B16
"Let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches." (Rev. 2:7) B16
Mark 7:18
He saith unto them -- The special light in both harvests is for the
"Israelites indeed." B27
Mark 7:24
Arose, and went -- When all Galilee awakened, the people discussing
making him a king, and the realization that the time for his death had not
yet come, he journeyed from the area where he was so well-known some
forty-five miles toward the Mediterranean. R3786:1
Borders of Tyre and Sidon -- More properly, the provinces of Tyre and
Sidon, within the boundary of the land called Phoenicia, where these
cities were the centers of wealth, influence and business. R3786:1, 3338:3
He was still in Israel, in Galilee, but over toward the border of Tyre and
Sidon. R2280:3
Not that he went to either of these cities; apparently he merely crossed
the borders of Galilee, and was thus for a time free from the authority of
Herod. R3786:1
Have no man know it -- With the evident design of secluding himself from
general notice, and possibly to gain quiet and rest. R2653:1
Mark 7:25
An unclean spirit -- Possessed of an evil spirit, a demon--"obsessed."

R5101:2, 3786:6, 2653:1, 2280:3
So far as we have any knowledge, most of these fallen spirits, demons, are
unclean, depraved, and their influence upon those possessed by them is an
unclean, injurious one. R3338:3
And came -- Prompted by her love for her daughter and her confidence in
Jesus. R2653:2
Fell at his feet -- After the custom of the East, so expressive of
humility, dependence and entreaty. R2653:5
As a poor and uneducated woman who would naturally have great diffidence
in approaching a learned man, especially one of whom she had no doubt
heard much. R2653:2
So there are others in the world today who, if they knew our Savior as we
know him, would be no less faithful than ourselves. Some heathen, perhaps,
would manifest greater faith than some in Christendom today. R3787:3
Mark 7:26
A Syrophenician -- Canaanitish. R3338:3

Of Syrian ancestors; by education and language, a Greek. She represented
quite a mixture of nationalities--a Gentile out and out. R3786:6
At that time, therefore, "without God and having no hope in the world."
(Eph. 2:12) R2653:2
She besought him -- Yet it must have been known that Jesus was a Jew and
that his miracles and favors were confined to his own race. R2653:1
As a foreigner she had to overcome the prejudices of her own heathen ideas
as well as everything akin to pride and the fear of being despised and
rejected. R2653:2
Bringing her divine favor, even before it was due to come to the Gentiles.
R2654:4
As no longer strangers, foreigners, dogs, but children, it would be no
longer appropriate that we should cry or entreat or beseech in any wise
for things which the Lord is not pleased to give us. R3338:6
Our petitions should be for holiness of heart, for the filling of his
Spirit, for the spiritual food, refreshment and strength. R3338:6
Mark 7:27
But Jesus said -- Matt. 15:23 says "he answered her not a word," even
implying that he left the house and the woman had to importune the
disciples to intercede for her. R3787:1, 3338:3, 2653:2
Let the children -- The Jew occupied a place of favor represented by
children. OV164:T; R2604:3
First be filled -- As the children would be provided for first, before
the dogs, so the Jews should be ministered unto first, before the
Gentiles. R2653:5; OV164:T
It is not meet -- A rebuff, calculated to dishearten one of little
faith, but correspondingly to strengthen a great faith. R2653:5
Resisting her, not because he didn't understand the case, but to draw out
her faith, preparatory to the giving of the blessing desired. R2653:3
The Lord may also ignore our petitions to increase our faith and
appreciation of the blessing we desire. He may make a test of humility
before he responds to our requests. R3787:4, 3338:4
Unto the dogs -- The typically clean Jew called the outsiders "heathen"
and "dogs," and would never eat, marry, nor have any dealings with them.
(John 4:9) R2604:2, 5444:4
The Jews claimed to be God's people, and the Gentiles were styled "Gentile
dogs," because they had never been in covenant relationship with God.
R5101:2
The Gentiles, in comparison to the Jews, were as the dogs of the
household. R2653:5
Not an answer of disdain, contempt or indifference to her woe; but of
interest and sympathy, explaining a reason why she was not a proper
subject. R2653:5
Had there been pride in the heart, this response would have been
sufficient to have put the woman upon her dignity and she would have
openly tiraded against the Lord and all Jews as ecclesiastical bigots.
R3787:1
Our Lord used the word signifying the little pet dogs of the family.
R3338:4, 2653:6
There is no excuse today for any being in the attitude of "dogs." If they
will, the door of favor still stands open that they may become "sons of
God without rebuke." (Phil. 2:15) R5101:4
Mark 7:28
And she answered -- The people of the East are known for their
importunity. To one who has ever held an official position in the East,
the persistency of a pleading woman is a fact that one will never forget.
R3786:6
Yet the dogs -- She was willing to confess herself one of the Gentile
dogs, with no right to claim healing for her daughter, because not a Jew.
Q601:T; R5444:4, 5101:2, 2653:6
With wonderful keenness and humility acknowledging that she was not one of
the children who had a right to the Father's blessing. R2653:6
So she, as a Gentile, might be granted her request, without saying that
she was as worthy as a Jew of his mercy and favors. R3787:2
We, too, should persistently hold on to the Lord for the blessings we may
be sure he will be pleased to grant in his own due time and way. R2653:4
The children's crumbs -- That, as an outsider, she might be granted some
of the Lord's favors without in any degree working disadvantage to the
Jews, to whom the Lord's ministry was specially sent and given. R3338:4
She was of the Lazarus class desiring a crumb of divine favor. (Luke
16:21) R2604:3, 5444:4
As Lazarus ate the crumbs from the rich man's table. HG428:4; OV164:T
Might she not have the crumbs of comfort and blessing which she
craved--the healing of her daughter. R5101:2, 2653:6
In contrast, he has set before us "meat in due season" in great abundance.
We need not importune for these; they are ours for the taking. R2653:6
Mark 7:29
For this saying -- The woman triumphed over the obstacle of the Lord's
argument with wonderful keenness and humility. R2653:6, 3787:2
God greatly appreciates faith and, so far as possible, answers petitions
offered in an importunity of faith. R3788:4
The faith manifested in her saying was sufficient. R3339:1
Jesus rewarded her faith by giving her a crumb of favor, the healing of
her daughter. OV164:T; R5101:2, 3787:2, 2653:6
Mark 7:30
Come to her house -- Showing her further faith, in accepting the

Master's word and going to her house. R3787:2, 3339:1, 2653:6
Many today hear the Lord's word assuring them their sins are forgiven, yet
Little Faith bids them doubt and keep on bemoaning their sins and
requesting forgiveness. R3339:1
Upon the bed -- The demon was gone out and in leaving had thrown the
child in a fit upon the bed. R3787:2
Mark 7:31
And again, departing -- So far as the record goes, our Lord did nothing
else in that quarter except for the poor Syrophenician woman. R3339:1
He came -- Taking an easterly course along the northern borders of
Palestine and, crossing the river Jordan, coming southward to the Sea of
Galilee. R3339:1
Mark 7:32
They bring unto him -- Matthew says they stopped in a mountain where the
multitude brought their sick unto him. R3339:2
Willingly or unwillingly, the power of healing was associated with the
exercise of faith, either on the part of the sick, or for him by his
friends. R5103:3
Put his hand -- Evidently most of the miracles were performed by the
laying on of hands, although the record also is that some were healed by
touching Jesus or touching his garments. R5103:3
Mark 7:33
Took him aside -- Perhaps to impress upon him the lesson. R3339:2
A peculiarity in this miracle, that he healed him privately. R5103:3
Put his fingers -- These methods were used to attract the deaf man's
attention and assist his faith. R5103:3 As he could not hear, nothing said
to him could explain the situation; he could see the spitting, feel the
touch and thus understand what was going on. R5103:3, 3339:2
Into his ears -- As though to start some life current through them.
R5103:3
Touched his tongue -- These matters meant the submission of his mind, or
the exercise of a degree of faith. R5103:6
Mark 7:34
Looking up to heaven -- Giving the man a lesson that the power for his
cure was expected from God. R5103:6
As indicating that the sympathy of heaven was moved for the man's
assistance. R3339:2
He sighed -- Indicating his deep sympathy with the man before him and
with the groaning creation in general. "He was touched with a feeling of
man's infirmities." (Heb. 4:15) R5103:6
The fact that he was perfect did not make him cold and unsympathetic,
rather the reverse. His perfect mind would make all his sensibilities more
active than ours, his sympathy would be stronger, his sense of pain
keener. R5103:6
Perhaps an evidence of physical weakness, the result of the bestowing of
his vitality and energy in the cure of the patient. R5104:1
Mark 7:36
Tell no man -- Seemingly understood, not as a command, but rather as a

suggestion that he was not seeking publicity. R3339:4
They published it -- This may have been the first miracle in that
region, and possibly the multitude coming, as Matthew records, were
attracted by it. R3339:2
With us, the message is too good to keep; we love to tell the story, it
did so much for us. R3339:4
As the Master would not reprove this one, neither does he reprove us if,
in our zeal, we go sometimes to the extreme of trying to tell the good
tidings to those who have no ear to hear. R3339:5
Mark 7:37
Done all things well -- When faith was manifested and the poor afflicted
ones were before him, the Lord never refused to give the blessing;
teaching that, in due time, the Lord will not withhold a blessing from
any. R3339:4
Not merely this one healing, but many. (Matt. 15:29-31) R5104:2
The deaf to hear -- His mission was not to heal the sick, but "to give
his life a ransom for all"; secondarily to call his footstep followers,
and only incidentally, as an illustration of his kingdom, to do miracles
and cures. R5104:2
It would have been a still greater work for Jesus to have expounded the
divine plan and open the eyes of their understanding, but this was not
possible at that time. Jesus said to his disciples, "Greater works than
these shall ye do, because I go to my Father." (John 14:12) R5104:4
As new creatures we already have had our eyes opened, our ears unstopped
and our tongues loosed, that we may speak of his goodness and love to
others. R3339:4
In the kingdom "all the blind eyes shall be opened and all the deaf ears
be unstopped." (Isa. 35:5) R5104:4
Mark 8
Mark 8:5
Loaves -- The same as used in Palestine today, about the size of our
large buns and made of the entire wheat, ground. R5104:5
Mark 8:6
He took the seven -- The disciples gave their all for the feeding of the
multitude, and all had sufficient. R5104:5
Mark 8:8
And were filled -- Quite possibly some of us would find ourselves

equally healthy and strong on similarly plain food. Let us exercise faith
in God and partake of our daily bread with thankful hearts. R5104:5
That was left -- The Master displayed frugality and encouraged economy
on the part of his followers. R5104:5
Mark 8:9
About four thousand -- Yet when tempted in the wilderness, he refused to

use divine power to satisfy his own hunger. F650
Mark 8:11
Pharisees came forth -- Considering Jesus a competitor and a successful

one; and fearing, not without a cause, that their own reputations as
teachers were becoming tarnished because of Jesus' superiority as a
teacher. R5111:1
A sign from heaven -- Hence, belittling the many signs he was giving the
people in the healing of the sick, etc. R5111:1
Tempting him -- To find fault. R5111:1
Mark 8:12
No sign be given -- Matthew 16:2-4 gives a more detailed account of the

answer--that there would be one sign given that nation, but not until
Calvary--the sign of Jonah. R5111:3
Mark 8:15
Take heed -- God's Word is truth, the bread upon which his people are to
feed. But they are to use the unleavened bread--pure bread, pure truth,
unmixed with the leaven of human philosophy. R5111:4
Be on the look out for, and avoid it. R5111:4
Beware -- A necessary caution because the Pharisees were the most holy
sect amongst the Jews, and the most zealous and gifted Jews would
naturally be attracted to that sect. R5111:4
Of the leaven -- Leaven (yeast) is a ferment which spreads, especially
in dough for bread. R5111:4
A symbol of an evil influence. R5390:2
Leaven is corruption, an element of decay, hence a type of sin and death.
R5192:4; T98
The corruption of human theory, blight, ambitions, selfishness, etc. F464
Let us stand free from all "leaven" in all the various creeds. R5111:4
No matter how holy any denomination of Christians may claim to be and seem
to be, we are to beware of their leaven, their false doctrine. R5111:4
Of the Pharisees -- Its bread, its truth was intermingled with human
traditions which would make sick and dyspeptic, and to that extent poison
all the minds which received it. R5111:4
The Pharisees in the Jewish harvest picture the great religious rulers of
nominal Christendom in the present harvest. C152
Of Herod -- Typifying the kings of the earth: civil government. B261;
R2280:4, 1754:4
Mark 8:17
Perceive ye not -- Their mental eyes, their eyes of understanding, were

not very widely open. R5111:5
Neither understand -- Today, in Bible study, frequently the spirit of
our Lord's teachings is often missed altogether by some whose minds center
merely around some little incidental. R5111:6
Mark 8:21
Ye do not understand -- Jesus was not finding fault with their having
only one loaf; he still had power to produce bread. R5111:5
Similarly, in Bible study today, the spirit of our Lord's teaching is
often missed because of some little incidental. R5111:6
Mark 8:24
Men as trees -- Truth is breaking through the clouds of tradition and

error. Many are beginning to see dim outlines as did the physically blind
one. R795:2
8:25
After that -- As some were healed gradually, as here, and others
instantly (Matt. 8:14, 15), so likewise we may expect diversities in the
operation of restitution now beginning. R759:3
Again -- Probably the man lacked faith and Jesus was gradually
developing it in him. R5111:6
Made him look up -- He looked steadily and kept looking for some time,
and then declared that he could see everything clearly. R5111:6
Mark 8:27
Jesus went out -- Probably toward the close of his third year of
ministry. R3339:2
He asked his disciples -- The time had come to prepare them for the
ignominy and death which he knew to be in store for him. R3339:3
Whom do men say -- Our Lord was drawing out the apostles, to crystalize
in their minds the thought which he knew was already forming. R3339:6
Apparently, John the Baptist knew the most respecting our Lord's mission,
as indicated by his query, "Art thou he that should come, or look we for
another?" (Matt. 11:3) R3339:3
Mark 8:28
Some say, Elias -- Showing that the public mind was being exercised, was
noting that he was not an imposter. R3339:6
Mark 8:29
Whom say ye -- Implying that they were separated in his mind from the
rest of the people, and should have a clearer knowledge of him than
others. R3339:6
Jesus had been with his disciples working miracles for probably two years
before he asked them. R5767:5
For a considerable period of his ministry our Lord did not declare
himself, even to his disciples, to be the Messiah. R5120:1, 3339:2
What think ye of Messiah? What think ye of his invitation to become his
associates? What think ye of the cost of self-denial, self-sacrifice? What
think ye of the great reward? R5120:6
And Peter -- Probably the eldest of the disciples and their spokesman.
R3339:6
Thou art the Christ -- God's Anointed One: Hebrew, the Messiah. R3339:6,
5120:6
Without political or social influence, without wealth, name or fame as a
leader or commander of the people, or a general of armies, he would have
been regarded as mentally unbalanced to have made such a claim. R3339:6
More than a good man and able Teacher; but "the man Christ Jesus" who gave
himself a ransom for all, of extraordinary birth, the Redeemer of the
world and anointed as the great King, Prophet and Priest, whose kingdom
shall be under the whole heavens. (1 Tim. 2:5, 6) R5120:5
It was better that people should claim it for him than that he claim the
honor for himself. R5120:1
Mark 8:30
Tell no man -- To have proclaimed it in a general way might have created

more or less of insurrection, and might have hindered the carrying out of
the divine arrangement respecting his ignominious death. R3340:1, 3790:1
They could still proclaim the kingdom of heaven at hand, they could still
speak of Jesus as the great Teacher and man, they could still wonder as to
whom he might be. R3340:2
Of him -- The proper time for making him known as the Messiah would be
after he had finished the work of sacrifice which the Father had given him
to do. R3340:2
Mark 8:31
And he began -- Following the Lord's method, inquirers should first be

instructed respecting the goodness, love and mercy of God, the redemption,
and the glorious times of restitution, before being informed of the
self-sacrifices of the "narrow way." R3340:5
Implying that thereafter this was frequently a subject for discussion and
consideration between him and them. R3340:3
To teach them -- For the first time intimating to them that their
surmises on the subject were correct--that he was more than Elijah,
Jeremiah or any of the prophets--that he was the long-promised Messiah.
R3340:1
How the kingdom would be formally proffered to the Jews, how they would
reject him, he would be killed and after three days rise again. R5120:1,
3340:2
The deep things of the divine plan are revealed to us only as we have
confessed Christ. R3340:3
The same Lord is still teaching line upon line, precept upon precept, as
we are able to bear the truth; and our preparedness for it will be
proportionate to our nearness and fellowship with him. R3340:3
Must suffer many things -- Testings of faith and loyalty to God are as
necessary to Jesus' followers as they were to himself. PD76/90
And be killed -- They must be prepared in advance for his shameful
death, else it would prove such a shock to their faith that they could not
recover from it, neither believe in his resurrection. R3340:2
After three days -- Representing the last part of the fifth, all of the
sixth, and the early part of the seventh thousand-year day. R3375:3
Mark 8:32
Saying openly -- Before the entire twelve apostles. R3340:3

And Peter -- In his love for the Master, and intoxicated somewhat by the
honors bestowed upon him already, undertook to be the teacher. R3790:2
Possibly elated by our Lord's words of commendation that the Father had
revealed the matter to him. R3340:3
Many privileged to confess the Lord before men have stumbled over their
own honor and exaltation. R3790:2
We are to listen to his Word, and not attempt to correct our Lord or
substitute our own ideas. R3790:2
Took him -- Apart from the others. R2658:4
The only one with sufficient courage to express himself. R5120:2
And began -- Peter did not get to finish. The Master hastened to
repudiate such a disloyal suggestion. R2658:4
To rebuke him -- Privately whispering to him that such sentiments should
not be introduced or expressed before the apostles, that it would be
discouraging to them all. R3340:3
Showing that the disciples clearly understood the statement about his
death. R5120:2
How could he be the Messiah, and yet suffer death at the hands of his
enemies? R3340:2
Insisting (as some do today) that the Lord's cause must conquer the world,
as a result of their preaching. D654
This testing was about the Passover season, the time when the Lord's
people seem to be in greatest danger of stumbling. R3178:3
Mark 8:33
He rebuked Peter -- Be not many of you teachers, brethren, knowing that

a man who is a teacher has severer trials, temptations. (James 3:1) R3790:2
Get thee behind me, Satan -- Adversary, opposing spirit--in opposition
to God and to all in harmony with God. F611; R5427:1
A hinderer of the work. R3790:3
In this course St. Peter was opposing the divine will and plan, of which
the death of Jesus was the very center or hub. R5120:2
His servants ye are to whom ye render service. (Rom. 6:16) R3340:4 Jesus
perceived that these influences were striving to hinder the consummation
of his sacrifice, even as Satan tried to do in the beginning of his
Afterward all of the disciples seem to have gradually settled down to a
realization that the glories of the kingdom were still remote, and that
the Master must go away. D564
Thou savourest not -- Thy words savor not of God's plan, but of human
judgment and preference. R5120:2
That be of God -- Divine wisdom. R3340:4, 3790:3
That be of men -- Human wisdom. R3340:4, 3790:3
Mark 8:34
Whosoever -- Addressed to those who were already, in some sense of the

word at least, disciples. R3235:6
Catholics and Protestants agree that only saints, the Little Flock, the
elect, are fit for heaven when they die. HG215:4
Will come after me -- Our Lord's life was an illustration. R3790:3
Be my disciple, my follower, my sheep. R5654:1, 3236:4
Let him deny himself -- Sacrifice himself, his personal interests,
ambitions, etc. R3846:4
Kill his will outright, not merely hack and mutilate it. The desire to
give up our own will and accept God's will must be a joy, a pleasure. To
be acceptable to God, it must be no cross to us. "I delight to do thy
will, O my God." (Psa. 40:8) R3237:2,1
Self-denial is the first step--self-renunciation, giving up of the will to
God. R5654:1; Q399
In their hearts they must give up all else; being glad to forsake all
actually if the door of opportunity opened to them. R4557:4
"If we be dead with him, we shall also live with him." (2 Tim. 2:11)
R2615:6
Take up his cross -- Having counted the cost of discipleship. R3235:6
Endurance of trials, difficulties, disappointments --the crossing of the
human will and preferences. R3236:4
It is our good human wills (not actually perfect, as our Lord's, but
reckonedly so through his imputed merit) that are to be crucified,
delivered up to death. R961:5
Figurative of crucified. R960:2
In the sense of being sacrificed, even of earthly interests. Q399
If Christ's crucifixion was not the crucifixion of a sinful will and
desires, neither is ours as followers of the spotless Lamb of God,
crucified with him. R961:4
Actual, literal crucifixion signifies to deliver up to a torturous, slow,
but sure death. The figurative closely resembles this. R960:2
And follow me -- "Walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit." (Rom.
8:4) R3237:5
This is the condition. In no other way will Jesus become our Advocate.
R5775:5
This is the class, typified by Israel, who have entered the antitypical
Canaan, who are fighting the good fight. R5351:4
Mark 8:35
For whosoever -- This principle is applicable to the Church only, during

this age. The rule will be the reverse for the world during the
Millennium. R4536:4
Will save his life -- Greek: psuche; soul, being. E335; R248:6
Seeks to preserve the restitution life imputed to him through the merit of
Christ. R4536:4
Those who love self, popularity, worldly prosperity, honor of men, more
than they love the Lord, and who reverence human theories and systems more
than the Word of the Lord. D628
Shall lose it -- His eternal life. R4536:4
The great "prize" of the divine nature. R5120:3
Not worthy to share the kingdom. D268
Shall lose his life -- Greek: psuche; soul, being. E336
Sacrifice in the interests of the Lord's cause. R5120:3, 4536:4
Anyone solicitous of maintaining his rights and holding on to the present
life, unwilling to sacrifice all, will lose the great "prize" of the
divine nature. R5120:3
Shall save it -- The reward of life on the spirit plane. R5120:3
In the first resurrection. R528:4*
Mark 8:36
Gain the whole world -- The selfishness thus developed will make them
unfit for the eternal life. R5120:3
Lose his own soul -- Greek, psuche, life, being. E336; CR207:4*
His existence for which nothing would compensate, for without existence
there could be no possession or pleasure. R3341:2
Mark 8:37
What shall a man give -- Wealth, fame or name for a few years in the
For his soul -- Greek, psuche, life, being. E336
Mark 8:38
Ashamed of me -- There are many ways of showing ourselves ashamed of

Christ: if we are ashamed of any member of his Body, if we are ashamed to
be recognized by the world as members of his despised Body, if we are
ashamed of his doctrines. R1189:5*; E237; CR448:4
"He that despiseth you despiseth me." (Luke 10:16) R3777:1
We are not to hold back from the service of the truth because we are
well-known by our neighbors, nor because of the majority of those who
distribute tracts are illiterate or forced to the service of poverty.
R4001:5
The heart attitude that says, "So long as right is as easy as wrong I will
choose the right, but if wrong is easier than right I will choose the
easier way," is disloyal to God. SM346:1
If Jesus had joined hands in Pharisaism, even had he kept quiet and left
their hypocrisies alone, he would not have suffered. So with us. E236;
R374:4
Such characters are not willing to be closely identified with the Body of
Christ, but would follow "afar off." R1189:4*
They have not, by faithful service, developed the necessary character and
proved their sympathy, devotion, love and zeal for the Lord and his truth.
C210
Manifestly such will not be fit for the glorious position to which the
Lord has called us if so weak of character. SM764:T, 346:1; R1189:5*
And of my words -- Love to God is above all, and love to God's Word
Jesus puts next. R753:5
Ashamed to confess the doctrines which he taught. E237; R5120:4
To be ashamed of the truth, of the divine plan, of the teachings of God's
Word, because they are unpopular with men, is to offend the Lord and prove
ourselves unworthy of his favor. R5120:4
Whoever honors and serves not the Lord's Word, lacks evidence of love for
the Lord himself. R4480:5
They have the spirit of bondage and fear which bringeth a snare and
blindness upon them again. R525:6
The acceptance of truth as due, in the face of unpopularity, is a part of
the testing. The Lord puts his plan, his Word, as his representative.
R2597:4
The Bible and the literature which expounds and illustrates it. R3777:4
The Lord puts his Word on a parity with himself. R3776:3, 2597:4, 318:2
In neglecting them they neglect him. R55:6
I have yet to find a man that is not ashamed of the ordinary misnamed
Gospel of damnation. HG190:6
Sinful generation -- Those who had not made a consecration. R5120:4
Son of man -- The Son of the man (Adam). E153
The "Son of man" is a title of high honor because it is a perpetual
reminder of his great victory by which he obtained the divine nature. E151
Be ashamed -- He will not own them as members of his Bride class. R4967:6
He would rightly be ashamed to take for his Bride one so inferior to the
true standard of moral excellence. R1189:5*
Such a heart would be unworthy of the glorious high calling. Indeed it
would make even an unworthy human being. SM346:1
If we would maintain him as our Advocate, we also must be advocating his
cause amongst men. R5120:4
As in Luther's and Paul's day, so now those too indolent or too cowardly
to express truth which they see, prove both by word and act that they are
unworthy of the knowledge and consequently they are left in darkness.
R402:5, 310:6
When he cometh -- In the Millennium. R3777:5, 3341:2
The holy angels -- The saints, his holy messengers. C302
"The Lord cometh with ten thousand of his saints." (Jude 14) C302
Mark 9
Mark 9:1
Not taste of death -- Jesus prepared his disciples for the

transfiguration vision. R5121:1
The kingdom of God -- God's Royal Majesty. R5121:1
Mark 9:2
After six days -- Eight days, counting the one in which this was uttered
and the one in which it was fulfilled. R2659:1
Six days after Peter's confession that Jesus was the Messiah, and after
our Lord had explained that he would meet with contempt, persecution and
death. R3345:2
During the six days following the announcement of the Master's coming
suffering, ignominy and death, we may assume that the apostles were
sad-hearted and bewildered. R5121:2
This time that elapsed between the breaking of the news of his death to
them and the vision, was just enough for them to digest the meaning of our
Lord's words. R3345:5
Peter and James, and John -- The three leaders of the apostles. R3345:2
From amongst the strongest of the number. R3345:5
The most advanced in faith and zeal. R2659:1
Leadeth them up -- Luke tells us that he went there to pray, and we may
reasonably suppose that the three apostles joined with him in prayer.
R3345:2
An high mountain -- Presumed to be Mt. Hermon. R3345:2
When used symbolically mountains represent kingdoms. A318
For a little prayer meeting with the Lord: "Where two or three are
gathered together in my name." (Matt. 18:20) R3345:2
He was transfigured -- By a miraculous power he appeared transformed to
spirit conditions. R3345:2
The object of the "vision" was probably two-fold--the comfort and
strengthening of the Lord, and the enlightenment of his chosen witnesses.
R1761:4, 3794:5
The import of this vision is clearly indicated by Peter. (2 Pet. 1:16-18)
R1761:1
Mark 9:3
Raiment became shining -- Symbolic of the Lord's coming personal glory.

R1761:2
Representing the "glory to follow" (1 Pet. 1:11) when the sufferings are
all complete. B20
Representing the Lord after having experienced his resurrection change.
R5121:2; F677
Exceeding white as snow -- After the manner of angels. R5121:2
There was glory and honor attached to the Jewish dispensation and to the
Gospel dispensation, but a still greater glory was manifested in the
presence of Jesus, who represented the Millennial dispensation. R3345:6
Mark 9:4
Appeared unto them -- It was only an appearance, because Christ was the
firstborn from the dead and neither Moses nor Elijah is as yet "made
perfect." (Heb. 11:39, 40) F676; R3345:3, 1761:2
As a symbolic representation of the glory of Christ's Millennial kingdom.
R1761:2, 3345:2; F677
Radiant, but less so than Jesus. R5121:2, 3345:2
Elias -- Moses and Elias were not actually present on the mount, for the
resurrection had not yet taken place. R3345:2, 1761:2
A figure of Elijah representing the Gospel or Christian dispensation. B255
A figure of Elijah representing the overcomers of the Gospel age. F677; B20
A figure of Elijah representing the Gospel Church in the flesh. R3345:6,
5121:4, 3794:3
A figure of Elijah representing the spiritual or heavenly phase of the
kingdom. R1761:2
Moses -- A figure of Moses representing the Mosaic or Law dispensation.
B255; R3794:3, 3345:5 A figure of Moses representing the faithful
overcomers who preceded our Lord--the Ancient Worthies. F677; B20
A figure of Moses representing the faithful of natural Israel. R5121:4
A figure of Moses representing the earthly phase of the kingdom. R1761:2
A figure of Moses representing the faithful on the earthly plane through
whom the heavenly blessings will pour out upon humanity. R5121:6
Talking with Jesus -- Respecting his decease. (Luke 9:31) R5121:2, 3794:4
The conversation of the vision corroborating his statements that he would
suffer a martyr's death at Jerusalem. R3345:5
Typically looking toward, pointing out, and speaking of the sacrifice and
sufferings of Christ and "the glory that should follow." (1 Pet. 1:11)
B255, 20; R5121:5,2
The glorified one stood between the Moses class, called previously, and
the Elijah class, which had just begun to be called. R5121:5
Jesus represented the Millennial dispensation and the divine kingdom in
glory. R3345:6
Moses and Elias, like Jesus, had fasted forty days. They were one with the
Lord in a remarkable devotion to the Father. R3794:2
Mark 9:5
Three tabernacles -- Evidently thinking that the Master would rejoice at

such blessed fellowship, and willing to do anything for his aid. R5121:2
How many there are like Peter who want to rear earthly tabernacles and
fail to understand and appreciate the real vision of the kingdom. R3795:1
Peter was bewildered, confused, but in harmony with his natural
temperament, wished to say something. R2289:3, 5121:2
Mark 9:6
Were sore afraid -- Representing our fear lest we should fail in so

great an undertaking. R3794:6
Mark 9:7
There was a cloud -- Representing the darkness and trouble which would
be permitted to come upon them by Jesus' rejection and death. R3794:5
Since then the Lord has frequently permitted the same dark cloud to come
over his faithful ones, that they might be the better prepared to listen
to his Word. R3794:6
And a voice -- Such a voice was heard on three
different occasions: (1) At our Lord's baptism. (Matt. 3:17) (2) Here on
the mount of transfiguration. (3) Just before the crucifixion. (John
12:28) R2237:4
"And this voice which came from heaven we heard" when we were with him in
the holy mount. (2 Pet. 1:18) F676; B255
This is my beloved Son -- A fresh encouragement to their faith that
Jesus was "the Son of the Highest." (Luke 1:32) R5121:3
Their faith was corroborated; God himself had testified in this miraculous
manner that Jesus was his Son. R5121:3
Hear him -- A needed lesson in reverence, humility and patience. "Let
every man be swift to hear, slow to speak." (James 1:19) R2289:4
Be still! Hearken rather to the words of my beloved Son. R2289:3
Representing how through this Gospel age, while the misty cloud surrounds
the glory of the Lord, we will have great need to continually hearken to
the Word of the Lord. R2659:6
In that day (the glorious Millennial age) all shall hear the voice of the
Son of man. R3345:6
The essence of the entire vision was to demonstrate that Jesus was the
Messiah, worthy of being honored and heard as the mouthpiece of God.
R3794:5
Mark 9:8
And suddenly -- The vision vanished as suddenly as it appeared, as

John's visions vanished and changed from time to time. R3345:6
Jesus only -- The "vision," the voice and the cloud had all passed away,
and the natural conditions were again realized, while the lessons of that
solemn hour remained to gain a yet broader significance after Pentecost.
R1761:5
Mark 9:9
As they came down -- They descended from the mount to engage in the
duties of life--to complete the lessons of faith and obedience; yet, the
influence of the vision continued. R2659:6
We cannot expect to dwell on the mountain heights of enraptured vision
always. Our duties and trials are necessary experiences. R2660:4
What things they had seen -- A "vision"--not a reality (Matt. 17:9)--of
the coming glory of Christ's kingdom. (2 Pet. 1:16-18) R1761:1, 5128:3,
3345:6; B255
Mark 9:10
Rising from the dead -- The vision impressed the resurrection to their
minds, especially of our Lord. R3346:1
It was evidently the divine intention to impress the matter of the
resurrection upon their minds. R3346:1
Mark 9:11
Why say the scribes -- The apostles were seeing that Jesus was the
Messiah, hence the question. R3346:2
Mark 9:12
Elias verily cometh -- The glorified Christ. B254

Restoreth all things -- During the Millennial age. B254
For the purpose of making ready the world for the kingdom. R3346:2
Mark 9:13
Elias is indeed come -- In a sense, to those who could receive it, John
the Baptist had thus come, and had introduced Jesus as the Messiah. R5121:6
Pointing our that John had served as Elijah to those who receive him as
Messiah. R3346:4
As John the Baptist was the forerunner of Jesus in the flesh, so the
greater Elijah, the Church in the flesh, is the forerunner of the great
Messiah on the spirit plane. R5121:5, 3346:4; B260
Not going on to explain to them how he and they and all of the faithful
Church would, while in the flesh, represent the higher antitypical Elijah,
and endeavor to do a restorative work, but without success. R3346:4
Mark 9:18
They could not -- So with us, occasionally by faith we go into the

kingdom and see the glory of the Lord revealed, and then come down from
the heights of contemplation to face the fealties of the present--the
Adversary still in possession of the world, many his slaves and dupes, and
no earthly power sufficient to cast him out. R5128:3
Thus the Lord's people are still in the valley of conflict contending with
the will of the flesh and the devil; yet their eyes of faith behold at the
top of the mountain the glorious Lord, who will cause them to share in the
glories of his kingdom. R2659:4
Mark 9:19
Suffer you -- Bear with you. R5128:6
Mark 9:22
Ofttimes -- This case was one of occasional obsession by an evil spirit.

R5128:3
Cast him into the fire -- Account of a similar case in California in
1895 where the author feels he should have exorcised the spirit instead of
merely reasoning with the woman possessed by it. R2179:2
To destroy him -- There are modern cases where obsession has induced
suicide attempts. R2179:2
Mark 9:23
If thou canst believe -- How great stress the Lord lays upon faith! Our
blessings increase in proportion as we will exercise our faith. R5128:6
To him that believeth -- "If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you,
ye shall ask what ye will and it shall be done unto you." (John 15:7)
R5129:5
Mark 9:24
Lord, I believe -- The father realized from Jesus' words that the
difficulty rested with him, that he must exercise faith else his son could
not be recovered. R5129:2
Mark 9:25
Enter no more -- This was the special point of this cure. The evil
spirit had frequently left the boy, but only to return. R5129:2
Mark 9:26
Rent him sore -- We surmise Jesus allowed the evil spirit liberty in the
method of leaving the victim to demonstrate how malicious and evil the
spirit was. R5129:2
As one dead -- The binding of Satan will be accomplished in a great
"time of trouble," and humanity will be left in an almost dead condition.
R5129:4
Mark 9:27
Took him by the hand -- Not only must the Adversary be cast out of
humanity, but the world needs the hand of divine power for their uplift
out of the mire of sin and death. R5129:4
Lifted him up -- Messiah's kingdom will not only bind the Adversary and
forbid him to re-enter humanity, but the power of the kingdom will work
amongst the fallen, lifting them up to the divine standard. R5129:4
Mark 9:29
But by prayer and fasting -- Showing that their greatest power would
result from their living lives of self-denial and prayer. R4650:4
Fasting, or self-denial; and prayer, or fellowship with God. R5129:5
God's people could accomplish much more if they would always exercise full
faith in the Lord, and continually live more in the spirit and less
according to the flesh. R5129:5
Mark 9:32
They understood not -- For none were begotten of the holy Spirit until
Pentecost. (John 7:39; Acts 1:8) R5361:3
Their minds naturally drifted to the great hopes that Jesus would soon be
King, and they would be in honored positions as his associates. R5361:3
Mark 9:33
He came to Capernaum -- Passing hastily through Galilee, seeking to

avoid the curious. R5361:3
Mark 9:34
They held their peace -- They were ashamed to tell the topic of their
dispute. R5361:6, 2660:3, 1766:3
Certainly not indefinitely, for that would have been showing disrespect to
the Master; but there was a brief silence which indicated some
embarrassment. R1766:3
By the way -- After the vision in the holy mount there followed
temptation. Our highest views of heavenly things are quickly followed by
earthly trials and difficulties, which serve to test and prove us. R3795:3
They had disputed -- Because they had not enough love for one another.
R5193:4
This spirit disappeared after Pentecost. R5959:1
Who should be the greatest -- The Lord's prime minister. R5361:6
While the humility of the Lord's apostles is very marked in their
subsequent career, in the beginning of their course, they were all to some
extent influenced by old ideas which it was the object of Christ's
teaching to gradually eradicate. R1766:2
After the selection of the three (Verse 2) their relative prominence in
the kingdom was naturally suggested to their minds. R1766:3, 3796:1, 2660:3
Mark 9:35
Called the twelve -- Avoiding personalities, as it is always wise to do

when possible. R3796:2
Desire to be first -- The spirit of rivalry being the very opposite of
the spirit of love and meekness. R1766:5 The Master invariably encouraged
hopes and ambitions. His reproofs were merely against their strifes as to
which should be the greatest. R1415:3
But if the lesson was thus important to the apostles in their position as
leaders, it is also important to the whole Church, all of whom are, to a
greater or less extent, exposed to temptations to rivalry and ambition.
R1766:3
Shall be last of all -- The selfishly ambitious who seek honor rather
than service will be disappointed. R5361:6
The saying, "He that humbleth himself shall be exalted; and he that
exalteth himself shall be abased" (Luke 14:11), is seen to be the
statement of a philosophical principle of divine law. R1766:6
In his kingdom, self-seekers would have the lowest place. R5361:6
Servant of all -- Self-seekers will have the lowest place. R5361:6
It was not their own greatness that was to be considered but God's favor.
R5361:6
Mark 9:36
He took a child -- "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the
Word, that ye may grow thereby." (1 Pet. 2:2) R2660:3
The great Teacher was a lover of children even though, as far as the
record shows, he did not generally give his time to them. R5362:1
And set him -- The manner is impressive and solemn; as though he would
say, "I want you to take this lesson to heart and ponder it well." R1766:6
Mark 9:37
Shall receive -- Recognize and show kindness to. R1761:4

One of such children -- Simple of heart, meek, truthful, free from
ambition and rivalry, faithful, trusting, loving, obedient, teachable,
indifferent to social distinctions and popular opinions, without guile.
R1766:6
The least and humblest of God's children. R1767:4
Such disciples as have this child-like character, the mark of true
followers of Jesus. R3797:2
See Mark 10:14
Receiveth not me -- Not me alone. R5361:6
Him that sent me -- They were to receive each other as representatives
of Jesus; and more, as representatives of the Father. R5361:6
Showing his disciples that it was not their own greatness that was to be
considered, but God's favor. R5361:6
Mark 9:38
One casting out devils -- This one forbidden by John would correspond
well with some now holding meetings other than those which we attend.
R5501:3
He followeth not -- We can be workers in the harvest, and yet not
followers of the Lord. To be followers of the Lord, we must not only be
workers in the harvest, but also must be workers according to his will.
R4798:3*
The Lord makes use of various characters as agents in healings, even as
Judas was one of the twelve who worked miracles. R749:4
We forbad him -- "What authority have you to cast out devils? Jesus did
not send you out as one of the twelve, or as one of the seventy. You have
no business in this work. Q280:1
Mark 9:39
Forbid him not -- Each spirit-begotten child of God has a right to

speak, to preach, to declare his Heavenly Father's Word and message. None
has a right to interfere. R5410:1, 5122:2
We are to keep strictly in mind that the Lord has not given any of us a
right to supervise his work nor to forbid another to preach the Gospel.
R1522:2
Conscience is always to be respected; nor is any one who stands faithful
to his conscience to be disesteemed therefor by his brethren, even if
their consciences view the matter differently. R5501:6
While none may interfere with or bind his brother, we may give over some
of our own liberties. All who become members in a class thereby surrender
individual rights. R5410:2
If any person is doing a miracle in the name of Jesus, we are not to
interfere. If the Lord wants to stop him, he can stop him. It is not our
business to stop him. Q493:1
Whenever we find anyone doing a good work we should be sympathetic to the
extent we see they have good hearts, but this does not mean that we should
follow with them and leave our special commission of teaching the truth.
Q280:3
We neither urge nor insist upon our own views as infallible, nor do we
smite or abuse those who disagree, but regard as "brethren" all sanctified
believers in the precious blood. R5367:3, 4067:2
Where brethren find it advantageous to meet in different classes it will
usually be found that originally too great restraint of personal liberty
was exercised and that the majority were too careless of the sentiments of
the minority. R5502:1
But if anyone exercise his talents in a manner which we consider unwise,
or wholly or partially erroneous, it is our duty not to render any
assistance to the unwise course. R1629:2
Not applicable to cases of direct opposition, direct attacks upon the
harvest work. R4434:1
If Satan and his angels will do good, and heal and bless mankind, we
certainly will not cast a straw in their way. Let them do all the good
works they will, and the more the better. R760:4
In my name -- If they recognize Jesus and the value of his death, if
they trust in him for eternal life and seek to walk in his steps, they are
our brethren, whether they follow with us or whether they do not. Q495:T
It is one thing to say Christian, it is another thing to think Christian,
and it is another thing to mean Christian. Q493:1
Those who claim things in the name of A Christ, but who deny that Jesus
Christ, our Lord, tasted death for every man and redeemed us by his own
precious blood, are not of us, and the sooner we recognize that the
better. Q495:T
The word "Jesus" means "Savior from our sins," and Christian Scientists do
not believe there are any sins and say there is no penalty for sin. Q495:T
There are many false Christs; so it makes a great deal of difference in
the name of which Christ is the miracle done. Q495:T
Mark 9:40
Is on our part -- A general principle which none should lose sight of.
R760:5
We are to love all and wish God-speed to all loving the Lord and
manifesting his Spirit, whether they associate with us or not. R3747:1
Mark 9:41
For whosoever shall give -- Including the worldly man. T93

Whosoever is a big word, and takes in men of all characters. HG41:4
Including the thief on the cross who spoke kindly to the suffering Savior.
F669
There have been remarkably noble specimens of humanity among the heathen,
such will have a reward. R1030:3*
We advise that money be not solicited from outsiders, though we know of no
reason why money tendered by outsiders should ever be refused. F347
A cup of water -- Money for the Lord's work need not be refused if
voluntarily offered by outsiders. F347
Not lose his reward -- In the Millennial age. R2701:4, 2612:3,6, 412:1,
259:1
It would indicate their sympathy, and no doubt would bring them
eventually, either in the present or in the coming life, some recognition
and reward. F347
There have been remarkably noble specimens of humanity among the heathen,
and such will have a reward; but such a character could not, and cannot
now save a man whose life is already forfeited. R1030:3*
Showing that the dead will not only be raised for punishment. HG41:4
Mark 9:42
Whosoever shall offend -- Greek: skandalon; scandalize, stumble, entrap,

injure, hurt spiritually, thus subjecting himself to certain losses beyond
the present life. R3797:3
Beguile and lead astray--from the truth, or holiness of life. R1767:4
When leaders of church unite to force people to accept or reject their
views by restraining the liberty of speech and the liberty of the press,
to prevent the publications of doctrines of the Bible according to other
men's views, they have departed from the rational ideal of dealing with
the subject. HG507:5*, 604:5*
These little ones -- These that are little or humble minded, meek and
loyal of heart, R3797:3
Better for him -- Because such a calamity could not in any way affect
his future life. R3797:3
Mark 9:43
And if thy hand -- Figurative language--a literal hand could not cause
one to stumble in such a way as to affect his eternal welfare. R486:3*
Take the first clause of verses 43, 45 and 47, and connect them with the
first clause of the 49th verse. R3797:5, 112:4
Any comfort, pleasure, or taste as dear as a hand. R2603:1
Any sin we may cherish, be it as precious as a right hand. OV167:3
Offend these -- Would by its gratification cause you to forfeit the life
to come. R2603:1, 112:4
Cause thee to maintain an injurious character, a tendency to scandalize or
injure others. R3797:5
Cut if off -- As God will not accept a divided heart, if a part of your
powers symbolized by "hand" offend, it would be better to have a single
one, than two working in opposition. R508:3*
It is better -- It would be better to endure the loss of members than
lose all in gehenna. R2603:1, 112:4
The future life is of inestimable value, and it will richly pay you to
make any sacrifice to receive and enjoy that life. R2603:1
Teaching the necessity of separating themselves from everything which
should hinder them from meeting the requirements of the law of life, no
matter how dear or valuable that object might be. R508:2*
Enter into life maimed -- Everlasting life, which is the opposite of the
everlasting destruction symbolized by gehenna. R2602:3, 112:4
Into the everlasting life and harmony with God symbolized by the New
Jerusalem. OV167:3
It would richly repay them to deny themselves many comforts, pleasures and
tastes, dear to them as a right hand, precious as an eye, and serviceable
as a foot. R2603:1; HG511:4; OV167:3
God will not accept a divided heart, a divided service, if a part of your
powers cause you to offend; it would be much better to cut it off and have
a single one. R508:3*
Go into hell -- Greek: gehenna; everlasting destruction. "Valley of
Hinnom." This valley lay just outside the city of Jerusalem and served the
purpose of sewer and garbage-burner to that city. No living thing was ever
permitted to be cast into gehenna nor were the Jews allowed to torture any
creature. R2601:2, 896:1, 111:6; OV167:2
A figure used by our Lord and the Prophet Isaiah (66:24) to represent the
utter destruction of the second death. R896:1
Jerusalem was a figure of the kingdom of God, the New Jerusalem; hence its
valley was an appropriate symbol of the second death, the utter
extermination of all things abominable at the close of the Millennial age.
R896:4; HG224:5; OV167:T
The Jews knew it to refer to the valley outside their city, which was not
a place of torment, nor a place where any living thing was cast, but a
place for the utter destruction of whatever might be cast into it. R2602:6
Kimchi says that brimstone was thrown in to continue the fires and that
the condemnation of the wicked in a parabolic way, is called Gihinnom.
R112:1
The history of the Valley of Hinnom detailed. HG224:4-6; OV167:1
Never shall be quenched -- Not a neverending fire. The fires of gehenna
burned on until all was consumed, just as an uncontrolled fire burns a
house. R2603:1, 111:6
Mark 9:44
Where their worm -- This verse is spurious; not in oldest MSS. R2602:5,
112:4
Verse 44 and 46, and part of 45, are not found in the oldest Greek
manuscripts, though verse 48, which reads the same, is in all manuscripts.
R2602:6, 112:4
Mark 9:45
If thy foot -- Symbolizing offending powers. R508:2*

Any sin we may cherish, be it as precious as a right foot. OV167:3
Cut it off -- As God will not accept a divided heart, if part of your
powers symbolized by "foot" offend, it would be better to have a single
one than two working in opposition. R508:3*
Cast into hell -- It became customary to cast the "carcasses" of certain
criminals into the Valley of Hinnom instead of giving them decent burial,
thus it was noted, detested and dreaded as an extreme of punishment.
R896:1, 111:6
Into the fire that never shall be quenched-- This phrase is an
interpolation; not in the oldest Greek MSS. R2602:5, 112:4
Mark 9:46
Where their worm -- This verse is spurious; not in oldest MSS. R2602:5,
112:4
Mark 9:47
And if thine eye -- Anything as precious as an eye. R112:4

Any sin we may cherish, be it as precious as a right eye. OV167:3
There are eyes of the understanding as well as natural eyes. Eye is
representative of design or purpose. R486:3*
A literal eye, hand or foot, could not cause one to stumble in such a way
as to affect his eternal welfare. There are eyes of understanding as well
as natural eyes. Eyes are also used as representative of design or
purpose. R486:3*
Offend thee -- It is not an uncommon thing for many who have professed
to have an eye for the glory of God, to have a much larger eye for
business, for literature, for fame, etc. R486:6*
Pluck it out -- As God will not accept a divided heart, if part of your
powers symbolized by "eye" offend, it would be better to have a single one
than two working in opposition. R508:3*
It is better -- Paul echoed the same spirit when he said, "I count all
things but loss"; "Let us lay aside every weight--and run." (Phil. 3:8;
Heb. 12:1) R486:6*
Hell -- See verse 43.
Fire -- This word not found in the best MSS. R112:4
Mark 9:48
Their worm -- If carcasses thrown into the Valley of Gehenna fell upon
ledges and not into the fire, they would breed worms and be destroyed just
as completely. R2603:1, 896:1, 112:1; OV167:2
Dieth not -- This does not imply everlasting (immortal) worms, but that
they did not die until they had completed the work of destruction.
OV167:2; R896:1
Taken from Isa. 66:24 where the context shows that the prophecy relates to
the future, to the period of Messiah's kingdom; and that it was carcasses,
dead bodies, that were in evidence. OV167:4
No one thought of killing those worms or stopping their ravages. They were
doing good work, reducing the dead carcasses tossed into the valley into
dust. OV167:2
What in the world has given worms the power of living forever? Would not
that be a gift of God to those worms? HG224:3
Fire is not quenched -- Referring to the burning of brimstone in the
bottom of gehenna. Its use was intended to destroy bacteria, the germs of
disease, and help to preserve the health of the city. OV167:3; R896:1,4,
111:6
In the literal hell or gehenna, in one of the valleys near Jerusalem, the
fires were kept burning continually. R486:3*
It was kept burning purposely, by a law, and the worms were allowed to
feed upon whatever was thrown into that valley, but did not alight in the
fire, but on the rocks above. HG224:6
It burned on until all was consumed. R2603:1, 896:1
See also verse 43.
Mark 9:49
For -- Connects the first clause of verses 43, 45 and 47 with the first
clause of verse 49. R508:2*
We must not fail to notice the intimate connection between the 49th verse
and the former verses by the little work "for," which shows the relation
of the statements to each other. R508:2*
Salted with fire -- May we not only submit to, but volunteer to be
"salted with fire," then we shall be prepared to offer an acceptable
sacrifice "salted with salt." R508:6*
Forsaking all to be a disciple of Christ, we understand to be the salt of
fiery trial and separation. R508:3*
Every sacrifice -- In the type, salt was required to be offered with the
sacrifice. "With all thine offerings thou shalt offer salt." (Lev. 2:13)
R508:5*
If we become careless and neglect the salt, the sacrifice will become
offensive unto God. R508:6*
Salted with salt -- A symbol of fidelity, loyalty and incorruption.
R508:5*
Mark 9:50
Salt is good -- Salt signifies a purifying quality, it gives flavor to

whatever it is attached and seems to signify a preservative quality that
is a detriment to corruption. Q618:1
There are few, if any, words in the Bible that have a wider range of
symbolism than the word salt. It is used as a symbol for fidelity,
friendship, incorruption, barrenness, perpetual desolation, preservation,
etc. R508:1*
Referring to its symbolism of purity, righteousness, and to its cleansing,
preserving and healing influence. R2099:5*
Several of the oldest and best manuscripts (among which are the Sinaitic
and Vatican) insert the word "then" after the word "salt." R508:3*
Have lost his saltness -- By clinging to the world, and worldly ways, to
anything that is foreign to the word and spirit of Christ. R508:4*; Q618:1
If the Christian should persistently fall way from his righteousness, he
is "thenceforth good for nothing." (Matt. 5:13) R2099:5*
How important that we not only have salt in ourselves, but that we
continue to retain its healthful properties. R2099:5*
If we lose the quality of being separated from the world and have the
spirit of pride, we would lose our Christianity and cease to be the Lord's
representative. Q618:1
If you are clinging to the world and worldly ways, thoughts and
associations, or to a worldly church organization, then the salt is
losing, if it has not already lost, its savor. R508:4*
Wherewith will ye season it? -- There is no way to restore saltness to
salt once it has gone. So if we lose the holy Spirit, there is no way by
which we could be renewed again. Q618:1
Have salt -- Purity, righteousness. R2099:5*
In yourselves -- If we have not the salt in ourselves, how can we be the
salt of the earth? If we are not truly and sincerely righteous, how can we
exert upon others the cleansing and healing influences? R2099:5*
Mark 10
Mark 10:3
What did Moses -- Moses stood in the position of a father to the whole
nation, the nation being regarded and treated as children under age.
R5046:4, 1725:3
Who acted representatively in bringing the Jews under the Law covenant, as
Christ acted representatively in removing it. R1725:4, 5046:6
Mark 10:9
Hath joined together -- The marriage contract is similar to that between

the Lord and the Church--perpetual. F516
As a type of the union of Christ and the Church. F495
Mark 10:11
Put away his wife -- May not marry unless a divorce be granted, on the
ground of adulterous unfaithfulness. (Matt. 19:9) F505
Mark 10:13
They brought young children -- Children were brought to Jesus by their

parents, that he should bless them. R4823:3, 5362:1
His disciples rebuked -- Feeling that the Lord's time was too valuable
to be thus used. R5362:1
Mark 10:14
Suffer -- Permit. R4823:3, 5362:1, 4853:4

The little children -- Jesus was a lover of children even though he did
not generally give his time to them. R5362:1
For of such -- Inculcating simplicity, purity, honesty, sincerity, such
as in a little child--trustfulness in the Father and in those with whom we
have to do. CR154:1; R5362:2, 4853:4
Of such like is the kingdom. Jesus is representing the gentle, teachable,
guileless, humble disciple by a little child--"in malice be ye children
(having none)." (1 Cor. 14:20) R521:3
Little children will not be in the kingdom at all. Only developed, tried,
perfected characters will constitute the overcomers who will sit with the
Master in his throne. R5362:2
The proper child, unspoiled by its elders, is disposed to be very
trustful; and, until deceived, it is disposed to believe every word of the
parent and to trust implicitly to the parent's wisdom and power. R5362:2
See Mark 9:37.
Mark 10:15
Not receive the kingdom -- The message of the kingdom. R5362:2

As a little child -- In that pure, simple manner that a little child
would receive a message. R5594:4
"As new born babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that ye may grow
thereby." (1 Pet. 2:2) R2660:3
The followers of Jesus are not to be little children, but must be
childlike. R5362:2
How beautiful the thought--"children of God!" R521:3
Mark 10:16
In his arms -- Thus exhibiting his own sympathetic love and humility of
heart. R5362:1
And blessed them -- Or, prayed a blessing upon them. R4823:3
The influence of child-blessing services, arranged weekly in Brooklyn,
upon parents and children are favorable, impressing upon the former their
responsibilities. R4823:6
Mark 10:17
There came one -- Supposed by some to have been Lazarus, whom Jesus
later awakened from the dead. R3529:1
A Jew of a prominent family, a ruler. R3843:1
A young ruler of the synagogue. R5422:3
Notwithstanding the persecuting spirit of the rulers and teachers in
Israel against the Lord and all who believed in the validity of his
claims, he came to him openly. R1774:3
Kneeled to him -- Saluting him with that reverence due to so great a
teacher. R1774:3
What shall I do -- He was anxious for a perfect conformity to the will
of God; and so anxious that he manifested his willingness to bear reproach
for it in coming to Jesus. R1774:6
If I have been sincere, I ought to be ready to accept whatever answer he
will give me as divine direction, and should promptly obey. R3843:1
Mark 10:18
Callest thou me good -- Unless you believe from the heart that I am the
Son of God and not a falsifier, hypocrite and blasphemer. R2727:6
Is this simply a mark of courtesy? Or do you recognize the fact that there
is only one standard of goodness, which is represented by God, therefore
recognizing me as a teacher whom God approves? R3843:1
Pointing out that everything that is really good must in some way be of
God and in accordance with God. R5465:2, 4658:2
Mark 10:19
Thou knowest the commandments -- Not waiting for a reply. R5465:2, 3843:1
It was necessary that our Lord's answer should be in line with the Law
Covenant which was still in force, not yet "nailed to the cross." (Col.
2:14) R3843:2, 5465:3
We would not so tell him now, but then the Law Covenant was still in force
in Israel. R5465:2
Not, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and confess your inability to keep
the divine Law perfectly. That was not yet then due to be promulgated.
R3843:2
Mark 10:20
All these have I observed -- He was trying to do right in every way.

R5438:6
He had been living a most exemplary life; but that was merely his duty; no
one has a right to live a bad life. R5438:6
Indicating a realization that by the deeds of the Law no flesh had yet
gained the life it promised for obedience. R1774:3
Mark 10:21
Beholding him -- He was a noble character, even though he was not a

disciple. R5395:3, 1774:5
He was a model young man, such an one as all lovers of truth and
righteousness delight in. R3843:3
Loved him -- It would have been impossible for the Lord not to love such
a grand character. R2728:2
Loved his humility and earnestness, and his endeavor to keep the Law.
R3843:3
Loved his endeavors to keep the Law and loved his manifestation of
humility and earnestness in coming as he had, in a public manner, to ask
the way to life eternal. R3843:3
Who was thus desirous of being in full accord with the Heavenly Father's
will. OV332:T; R1774:6
He was a sincere Pharisee. R5464:2
One thing thou lackest -- With all his morality there was inconsistency.
He possessed wealth, and should use it to the glory of the Lord. R5422:3
There was a lack. His attitude, although he did not realize it, was not
that of entire consecration to the will of God. R1774:6
He had failed to keep the Law in those two most important
principles--supreme love to God and love to the neighbor as to self.
R1774:6, 2728:2; OV332:1
There is none so perfect that he lacks nothing. R1775:4
Sell whatsoever thou hast -- You must do more than merely avoid sin. God
is now calling for sacrificers. R5438:6
If you do not sacrifice yourself, you cannot become my disciple. R5438:6
Possessions, time, reputation, ambition. R1775:1
No man could be his disciple unless he would surrender all. R5422:3
He must not be selfish, or he could not be Christ's disciple. R5422:5
Not that the Lord's people should be penniless, dependant upon the charity
of others, but their possessions all must be consecrated to the Lord to be
used in his service. R3844:4
If that young man had assented and made further inquiry as to the
particulars, it is our opinion that the Lord would have modified his
statement--suggesting that the selling and giving to the poor be not done
all at once, but gradually, as the necessities might seem to open up.
Q149:4
Give to the poor -- Use that which you consecrated as wisely and as
thoroughly as you know how, as God's steward. F576; R1775:1
"Love is the fulfilling of the law." (Rom. 13:10) R2728:2
Whatever could not have been done for the Lord's cause directly could have
been done for the poor of the Jewish nation, who indirectly represented
the Lord's people. R3844:5
Not that the riches should be given away recklessly or indiscriminately
but, as God's steward, to distribute it according to the wisdom which God
would give. R5465:3, 3844:1
Feed the hungry with the bread that perisheth; but first, rather, to feed
the spiritually hungry with the bread of life. R1775:2
Treasure in heaven -- Every Jew, ready and willing to sacrifice his
earthly belongings and become a follower of Jesus, would be accounted
worthy of transfer from the house of servants under Moses to the house of
sons under Christ. R3843:5
Additionally, he might become a joint-heir with Jesus in glory, honor and
immortality. (Rom. 2:7; 8:17) PD66/78
A life of glory, honor, and immortality--the divine nature. R5438:6
In laying up treasure in our minds and hearts, we are building character
fit for an inheritance in the kingdom of heaven. R5519:1
Take up the cross -- There is no other way to come into Christ but by
way of the cross. We must bear it as he bore it. R5422:5
Even the full surrender of earthly possessions would not be sufficient.
R5465:3
In putting before others the trials and the cross, we should also put
before them the glory to follow. R5422:5
These words are not found in the Sinaitic and Vatican MSS. R3843:6
And follow me -- Follow my example. R5465:3
Every Jew willing to become a follower would be transferred from the house
of servants to the house of sons. R3843:4
This means the complete subjection, the death of the flesh. R5220:6
As it was expedient that the Master pass through experiences of self
denial, so it is expedient that his Bride be similarly touched with a
feeling of the world's infirmities. R4138:4
To follow Christ is not to make unwise disposition of our possessions and
talents, but, as wise and faithful stewards, to use them to the best
possible advantage in his service. R1775:1
Mark 10:22
He was sad -- But he had no complaint to make. R3843:6

He was anxious to do God's will, but not sufficiently anxious to be
accounted worthy of membership in the Little Flock. He was willing to do
right, to do justly, but unwilling to sacrifice. R5465:5, 5395:3
No doubt the heart of Jesus was sad also when he saw the blight of
selfishness and self-will attacking that promising half-blown rose of
character. R1774:6
Went away grieved -- Sorrowful; he did not want to give everything to
the Lord, but preferred to hold on to his wealth. R5395:3, 2728:3
With all his morality, there was inconsistency. He possessed wealth, and
should use that wealth to the glory of God. He must not be selfish, or he
could not be Christ's disciple. R5422:3
He forsook the opportunity to do the greatest good, and thus turned his
back upon a membership in the kingdom class. R5465:5
Declining to have the eternal life which Jesus was offering on the only
terms now attaching to the offer. R3844:3
We hear nothing of his subsequent conversion, but in all probability he
remained in sympathy with the Jewish teachers and partook more and more of
their spirit of opposition to Christ and his teaching. R1774:6
In the kingdom, we may see the young ruler glad to have life eternal
through the acceptance of the divine arrangement. Sacrifice will not be
possible then nor will it be required. R3845:1
During the past eighteen centuries the same test has proved many good,
honorable and wise people to be unfit for the kingdom. R3843:5
He had great possessions -- He was very rich. R5395:4
Mark 10:23
How hardly -- With what difficulty. R3844:3, 2761:2 The difficulty was
that he had set his heart upon his riches, demonstrating that he loved God
and the divine will less than he loved his earthly property. R5465:5
He might have said, I have some children for whom I must make some
provision. But the Lord said, Give all that you have to God. A parent can
consecrate his children so far as he is concerned. R5422:5
How rarely. R874:1
The possession of wealth, in combination with selfishness, leads to a
measure of satisfaction with present circumstances and conditions
unfavorable to faith in God's heavenly promises. R2761:2
Shall they -- The Doctors of the Law, the prominent Pharisees, the rulers
in the synagogues, the members of the Sanhedrin, etc., were the wealthiest of
Israel. R3844:3
That have riches -- Not because God is opposed to riches, for he himself
is rich above all others. R2761:2
Any valuable possession--talents of music, oratory, art, mental endowment,
or influence. R2761:3
Not merely of gold, but may be of honor, position, power, approbation of
men, etc. R5319:3
Whether those riches be of reputation, fame, learning, money, or even
common ease. HG716:6
Though generally applied to money, it may properly be applied to any
valuable possession--talents of music, oratory or mental endowment--which
carry with it weight of influence among men. R2761:6
We should have no idols--either wealth, fame or selfish ease--which might
attract our devotion away from God. R5465:6
No rich man can enter the kingdom. The only way one can enter is by
becoming poor. R3844:6
Many who know nothing of actual want of life's necessities are much
exercised by the loss of luxuries when adversity comes. R873:6
Hindrances of the rich are: faith in wealth instead of God, pride which
riches foster, friends which riches bring, and the proportionately larger
sacrifices which must be made. R2729:1
It is as proper for the earthly father to make provision for his children
as for the heavenly Father to plan for, educate and prepare a future home
for his children. It is when parents attempt to become rich and to leave
their children rich that they specially err. R1828:4
The kingdom of God -- Used interchangeably with "kingdom of heaven."
(Matt. 19:23) R397:1
Not the earthly nominal church which rich men find little difficulty in
getting into, but the glorified Body of Christ. R2761:3; A284
Mark 10:24
Children -- Simple, unsophisticated ones. R3844:3

That trust in riches -- Not that a man has been born wealthy or that he
has acquired great wealth, but that he would love these riches, would
hinder his faith in God. R3844:4
Mark 10:25
To go through -- We have heard it is possible for a camel to squeeze its

way through on its back knees provided the load be first removed from its
back. R3844:5
The eye of a needle -- A small gateway of ancient cities, used at night;
a camel could pass through only on his knees and unloaded. D304; F575;
R5466:1, 3844:5; PD66/78
For a rich man -- No rich man can enter. The only way one can enter is
by becoming poor, sacrificing everything. R3844:6; PD66/78
A rich man could enter the kingdom of God only be renouncing his burdens,
giving up all to the Lord. R5466:1
The kingdom of God -- Not the earthly nominal church, but the real
kingdom, the glorified kingdom which shall be established in the end of
this age. R2761:6; A284
Mark 10:26
Who then can be saved? -- If the few who are to inherit the kingdom are
the only ones who will get eternal life, then indeed there are few that
will be saved. R3843:6
Mark 10:27
With men it is impossible -- With men, it might seem impossible that a

man could have riches and use them conscientiously--be a sacrificer.
R1775:2
According to the Law no such thing was possible, but God made possible
this plan of salvation through Jesus. R3845:2
All things are possible -- If the rich man be honest-hearted and humble,
and his riches alone stand in the way, the Lord would show him how to use
his wealth, or else strip him of it. R5466:2
God has made provision for the wealthy: "Jesus Christ by the grace of God
tasted death for every man." (Heb. 2:9) R3844:6
The rich young ruler and all the families of the earth are to be blessed
in the Lord's established kingdom. R3845:1
Mark 10:28
We have left all -- A full surrender to God--a leaving of all and a

yielding up of all. R5466:4
The twelve chosen apostles had professed much. How much greater was their
Earthly business and calling and ambitions that they may glorify the Lord.
Aiv
Their all was not so very much, nor any more in many cases than we have to
leave, but it was their all, and so was acceptable. R1041:4
Peter had left his fishing business and his friends to travel with the
Master. He had thus given up his own will and present interests to do the
will of God. R1041:5
Mark 10:29
Verily I say unto you -- Jesus did not fully endorse Peter's statement.
He knew about Judas and that with Peter some self-will still remained.
R5466:4
Hath left house -- We are not to get the mistaken idea that the Lord
wishes us to sacrifice others. It would be wrong to deprive our families
of necessary comforts and temporal provisions, but having provided these
the surplus is the Lord's. R3845:5
If a man has made proper provisions for his family, it is for him and not
them to decide how his time, energy and further means shall be spent.
R3845:6
We know of none so poor that he could not sacrifice something, and the
poorer we are the more diligently should we strive to find something to
render unto the Lord our God. R3845:3
Sometimes the Lord's people put too much value on money and not enough on
service. R3513:6*
Or wife, or children -- Our Lord certainly did not mean that we should
sacrifice others in order to be his disciples; it is ourselves that we are
to deny, ourselves that we are to sacrifice. R3845:5
Not that the Lord would have us deprive our families of necessary
comforts. He that provides not for his own is worse than an unbeliever.
(1Tim. 5:8) R3845:5
And the gospel's -- Whatever is more than our responsible provision of
necessities, is held merely as a steward for use in the Master's service.
R3845:6
Mark 10:30
Receive an hundredfold -- The greater our present loss, the greater will
be our reward both now and hereafter. Those who sacrifice nothing need
expect no reward. Those who receive little of the Lord in this present
life and have small hope of a share in the kingdom are those who have
sacrificed little. R3845:3
What a broad promise! How gracious the divine arrangements. R5466:4
Not saying that Peter's little all was not worth mentioning, but
recognizing it and encouraging Peter to continue to sacrifice all, with
the assurance that in due time he would be rewarded. R1041:5
Now in this time -- The Lord's precious promises, backed by loving
letters of sympathy and encouragement, much more than offset the frowns
and hostilities of the world and the nominal church. R1346:2
With persecutions -- The Master promised compensation for the world's
hatred even in this present life. R1346:2
In the present time "tribulation," "persecution" and "all manner of evil,"
and in the age to come, everlasting life and glory as his joint-heirs.
R1084:1
Mark 10:31
But many that are first -- Position, honor of men, wealth and education
were barriers to becoming disciples. Those who were first or most
prominent were really less favored; those who had less opportunity were
really first or most favored. R3845:5
In point of time God called fleshly Israel first; but in point of favor,
and in time of realization, spiritual Israel comes first. B206; A293
Many possessing great privilege and opportunity for exaltation to the
kingdom will fail to embrace it, while others, naturally less favored,
will gain the great prize. R5466:5
Again, those who first had the opportunity of becoming disciples of Jesus
at his first advent will not, on that account, have any advantage over
others of the Lord's followers in the future. R5466:5
Shall be last -- Adam and Eve will probably be the last members of the
human family to be awakened. R4499:1; D641
The last first -- The less learned, less noble, less influential, less
wealthy were advantaged. It was easier for them to humble themselves, to
sacrifice. R3845:5
Some not favored during the Gospel age, natural Israel, will be granted
the chief favors during the Millennial age. F118
The last to die will probably be the first to be awakened. D641; R4499:1;
SM441:T
Mark 10:32
They were amazed -- Overawed by the stupendous things which the Lord had
declared to be imminent. R3362:2
Mark 10:33
They shall condemn him -- The priestly Sadducees, and not the people and
their Pharisean leaders, were interested in having Jesus brought to trial
for his open attack on the priestly misrule, and from fear lest the Romans
might hold them responsible. R2420:1*
Mark 10:35
James and John -- They had been permitted to come nearer than the
majority of the twelve. They were with him in the holy mount, at the
awakening of Jairus' daughter and in Gethsemane's garden. R5483:3
Who, it is supposed, were Jesus' full cousins. R3362:2
Come unto him -- Matthew tells us that their mother, Salome, was with
them and really made the request for them in their names. R3362:2
Do for us -- The others would not appreciate it so much as we do. CR151:6
Mark 10:37
Grant -- Or permit. CR151:6

Unto us -- They loved the Lord very dearly, and thought they could
appreciate a nearness to him more than some of the others. R5483:3;
CR151:6, 411:5
That we may sit -- Jesus appreciated their love for him, and their
desire to be near him. CR411:5; R3362:2
Others might not care so much where they were placed, but James and John
would like to be close to the Master. R5091:1, 2072:2
On thy right hand -- Not merely for ambition's sake, but we may suppose
that they loved the Lord dearly and thought that they could appreciate a
nearness to him more than could some of the others. R5483:3, 4487:3
The other on thy left -- It will not surprise us should we find the
Apostle Paul in one of these two positions. R3362:6
In thy glory -- He had not told them his kingdom would be a spiritual
one and that they would need the first resurrection change to be sharers
of it; nor had he made it clear that a whole age would intervene before
they would be made sharers in the kingdom. R5483:1
Mark 10:38
But Jesus said -- He did not reprove them for he read in their hearts
their love and loyalty toward himself, and that their desire for the
position was not merely for the honors and authority implied, but
specially because this would bring them closer to himself. R3362:2
Ye know not -- Do you know what it costs to get on the throne at all?
CR151:6
At that time they could form no idea of the blessedness of being joined
with Christ in his kingdom. R2072:2
Can ye drink -- Are you able, are you willing, to pay the cost of getting on
the throne? CR151:6; R3362:3
Will you carry out fully the covenant of consecration to death which you
made and on account of which you are reckoned as members of my Body? If
this is your will, I will test you, to make your calling and election
sure. R4310:2
It meant, Are ye willing? because it would be impossible for the disciples
to have known their own ability, except in the sense of having confidence
in God that he would give the ability. R3362:3
All who would sit in the throne must drink of the cup. All who will
faithfully drink of the cup shall sit in the throne. R4332:1
The privilege of drinking of "the cup" is offered only during the Gospel
age. R936:3
Of the cup -- This cup of self-denial and self-sacrifice with Jesus
signifies our participation in the blood of the New Covenant--in providing
the wherewithal for the sealing of the New Covenant. CR47:5, 411:6; PD66/78
Cup of ignominy and suffering. R2292:4, 5484:1, 4436:5; CR411:6, 151:6
Signifies the consecration to death of all the members of the Body of
Christ. R4980:5
Only those who drink of his cup may sit with him in his throne. R4453:5;
CR411:6
The privilege of drinking of "the cup" (sharing in the sacrifice of life)
is offered only during the Gospel age. R936:3
That I drink of -- Ours must be the same "cup," his cup, else we shall
have neither part not lot in his kingdom glory. R4436:5; CR47:5
Jesus' "cup" was the one to which he elsewhere referred, saying, "The cup
which my Father hath poured for me, shall I not drink it?" (John 18:11)
R5483:6
The cup signifies experiences; as, for instance, when our Lord said, "The
cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it." (John 18:11)
R3362:3
Mark 10:38
Be baptized -- Baptism into death is the real baptism for the Church, as
it was the real baptism for our Lord; water baptism is only the symbol.
F441
Only by sharing in his baptism into death could they hope to sit with him
in his throne. CR76:1; OV242:5
With the baptism -- The baptism unto death. F438, 442; R5484:2, 4495:5;
CR76:1, 411:6; OV242:5
The full renunciation of all earthly rights. R5484:2; PD66/78
The baptism of their wills into his will and the Father's will. F442;
PD66/78
That I am baptized with -- Into my death--to self-will, to cutting off
from every earthly privilege, if such be God's providence for you. PD66/78
No reference to water baptism, but to his baptism into death, of which he
spoke a few days later, saying, "I have a baptism to be baptized with; and
how am I straitened until it be accomplished." (Luke 12:50) R5484:1; CR76:1
Mark 10:39
We can -- We are willing; we will sacrifice everything to follow in your

footsteps. R3362:4; CR151:6
With divine assistance, we will go through anything to be with you,
because we love you. CR151:6; R3362:4
Be sharers of his cup of ignominy and his baptism into death. R5484:2
They were already consecrated, in the sense of agreeing to take up the
cross to follow after Jesus in the narrow way, but the Father had not yet
accepted their consecration. R4495:5 Evidencing that these two noble
apostles were not inspired by selfish ambition in their request. R3362:4
They had no thought that he wished them to be baptized again in water;
they understood well that it was the baptism of their wills into his will
and the Father's will. F442
Ye shall indeed -- Whoever of his called ones are willing at heart for
these experiences, the Lord will grant them the privilege, and also the
assistance. F442
They should indeed have the experiences necessary to fit them for a place
in the Kingdom. R3362:5, 4436:5
Willingness on the part of all is as much as the Lord could reasonably
require of his disciples. We have not the power that he possessed; we are
sinners by nature. R5484:4
He assured them and us that he will furnish trials and assistances, and
that if faithful to the end, we shall have a crown of life. PD66/78;
CR151:6
Drink of the cup -- The juice of the grape not only speaks of crushing
till blood comes forth, but also of an after refreshment. R5192:6
A wholly different matter from justification by faith. They were already
justified by faith, but could not sit on the throne unless they would be
sanctified by participation in Christ's death. R4495:5
Whoever will be successful as a disciple of Christ in attaining to
joint-heirship with the Master must first of all demonstrate a loyalty and
faithfulness in respect to suffering with the Master. R5484:1
Shall ye be baptized -- Suffer sacrificial death with Jesus; not to
provide the ransom, however. PT388:4*
The Master's baptism meant the full renunciation of all earthly rights.
R5484:2
Mark 10:40
Not mine to give -- That is not for me to decide, but for divine justice
to apportion out. CR152:1, 151:6; PD66/78
The honors and glories of the kingdom will not be determined by grace, but
by justice. PD66/78
There is a further zeal, beyond that which brought our consecration, which
will determine how near we may be to the Master in the throne. CR152:1
Given to them -- Possibly Paul and John. F726
For whom it is prepared -- It shall be reserved for whom the Father has
arranged it; and the Father has arranged it along the lines of justice.
CR440:3; R4436:5, 3362:6
Not that the Father prepared the place in advance by any arbitrary
divisions, but rather that his pre-arranged plan is that each follower of
Jesus shall have positions of honor proportionate to the zeal of their
faithfulness in the present time. R3362:6
Places in the Millennial kingdom are not to be given on the score of mercy
or favoritism, but absolutely, on the score of quality. R5483:4
Mark 10:41
Be much displeased -- Possibly some, Judas included, were anxious for

the power of the throne, but without the special love and longing to be
near the Master himself. R3363:1
Mark 10:42
Exercise lordship -- Lord it over one another, and recognize caste and
station. R2278:3, 843:6
We have no evidence that the early Church ever regarded the apostles as
lords in the Church; or that the apostles ever assumed such authority or
dignity. R1523:5; F230
Mark 10:43
Not be among you -- He who serves most and not he who lords it most
should have the chief respect of the Lord's people. R3363:5
Esteem and honor one another in proportion as you find in each other
unselfish sacrificing love and service. R844:1
Whosoever will be great -- Esteemed in proportion to their service, and
not in proportion to their titles, their priestly vestments, or their
praise among men. R1574:2
Minister -- Greek: diakonos; deacon, servant. F253; R1574:2
Whichever one will serve the others most will thereby be demonstrating to
God a greater fitness for a higher place. R5484:5
Mark 10:44
Servant of all -- Or greatest servant. R1574:2

No other lesson requires to be so carefully learned by the Lord's people
as this lesson of humility. R3363:4
Esteem such very highly for their service' sake. (1 Thes. 5:13) R844:1
The chief positions in the kingdom would be given along the lines of
meritorious service. Each would have the opportunity to strive for the
chief position by striving to render service to the others. R3363:1
Mark 10:45
For even the Son -- The Lord did not have one standard for his followers
and another standard for himself. R3363:2
As therefore my greatest service towards you renders me your chief, so
shall it be among you. R844:1
Came -- Proof positive that in exchanging the higher nature for the
human nature our Lord had not given his life as a ransom, but merely made
the preparation for that work. E426
But to minister -- To serve others. E426; F230
The key to Mark's Gospel where Christ is shown as a worker. In Matthew he
is described as a King (Matt. 1:1); in Luke as a philanthropist (Luke
19:10); and in John as God manifested (John 20:31). R1046:6*
The Lord did not have one standard for his followers and another for
himself. R3363:2
And -- The serving of Jesus' ministry and the example of obedience and
self-denial which he displayed, though blessed to those of his day, and to
others since, was not all by any means. R851:3
To give -- If we were bought, something was given for us, and to some
one. R387:3
Proof positive that our Lord in exchanging the higher nature for the human
nature had not yet given his life as a ransom. E426
His life -- Greek: psuche; soul, being. E336; R667:3, 53:4*
"The Good Shepherd giveth his life for the sheep." (John 10:11) R408:1*
The life Jesus gave was all the life he possessed--it was his life. R280:3
Telling how he gained the right to loose the prisoners of sin and death
from the tomb and to offer life to all for whom life and all had been
lost. R866:4
When our Lord was changed from spirit being to human being, it was not a
laying aside of existence. But at Calvary, existence was laid down
completely, he died, ceased to exist. R667:3
There is a difference to be observed between the laying down of the
ransom-price and the application of that ransom-price. R4818:6
A ransom -- The Greek term rendered ransom is lutron-anti, a price to
offset or to correspond. In 1 Tim. 2:6 it is the same expression reversed.
R1256:2, 5622:6, 387:3; E428
To recover by paying a price. R867:3
Jesus was the only one who could be the corresponding price for Adam.
R5622:6
The death of Jesus was the giving of the price. R4818:6
Thus bringing life to light. (2 Tim. 1:10) R3337:6
As Adam, through disobedience, forfeited his being, so Christ Jesus, as a
corresponding price, paid a full and exact offset for Adam's soul or
being. E428
His death was a free-will sacrifice. He could have sustained life as a
perfect man forever. R463:6
The ransom-price that Jesus gives has been progressive, and is not yet
completed. R5622:3
For many -- For many lives. R280:3
It was not for his own sins that he died, it was for ours. In dying he
gave himself a ransom price--a corresponding price--for the sins of the
whole world. R3363:4
Mark 10:46
Went out of Jericho -- Possibly going from the old city to the newer one
of the same name. R2729:2
With -- With the Lord and his apostles were a considerable number of
friends, together with numerous Pharisees. R3847:6
A great number of people -- It was the Passover season, and many were
journeying in the same direction with Jesus--toward Jerusalem. R5484:3,
3847:6
Blind Bartimaeus -- His persistency was the evidence of his faith and
that he was of sincere heart. R3848:1, 5485:1, 2729:6
There were many blind in Palestine, yet only comparatively few received
such a blessing, undoubtedly because few had the requisite faith. R3848:1
The Lord did not attempt to heal all the sick of Palestine. Bartimaeus was
only one of many blind beggars by the wayside. R5485:1
Mark mentions only one, the chief subject of the lesson, but Matthew
mentions a companion. R2729:3
That physical blindness is a terrible affliction none will question. But
how much more serious is the mental and spiritual blindness which
prevails. R3848:2
Many are blind as respects the beauties of the Bible. Some are so deeply
engrossed in business or pleasure-seeking that they never lift up their
eyes to the glorious beauties of nature. R5486:1
Some heathen are pictured as blind, seeking the Lord, "if haply they might
feel after him and find him." (Acts 17:27) R2729:6
As Bartimaeus was not an alien, yet blind, so in spiritual Israel there
are many who are not aliens from God, but are spiritually blind. R2730:1
Not a sinner, but a member of the household of faith, an Israelite, yet
blind. So today, many not sinners, members of the household of faith, are
mentally and spiritually blind. R2730:1
The world still lies in darkness. Only the few now get their eyes open, as
did Bartimaeus. They are people of special character, willing to ignore
the general sentiment of those who bid them be quiet and continue in
ignorance, blindness. R5485:5
A lesson that sin brought alienation from God, and moral blindness. R2729:6
By the highway side -- Hoping to excite sympathy of the passers-by.
R3847:6
Mark 10:47
He began to cry out -- Some heathen, desirous of having the light of

truth, are as blind men groping, crying out to the Lord in prayer,
"feeling after God, if haply they might find him." (Acts 17:27) R2729:6
Thou Son of David -- Of special significance to the Jews of that
day--the great King was prefigured by Solomon, David's son. R5484:6
The long-promised King of David's line, the Messiah. PD65/77; C257; E130,
133; SM210:2
Have mercy on me -- Our Lord paid no attention at first, but passed on.
R2729:3
Mark 10:48
Many charged him -- Those in the forefront of Jesus' company rebuked

him, intimating that the great Teacher should not be interrupted by a
wayside beggar. R3847:6, 2729:3
Hold his peace -- When the spiritually blinded cry for help there are
sure to be some even amongst the Lord's friends to rebuke them instead of
to encourage. R2730:4
The thought is suggested that many are more worthy to have the Master's
attention, that we are too insignificant, too sinful, for him to
recognize. R3848:3
He cried the more -- An evidence of his faith, the persistency which
belongs to true faith. R3848:1
He would not listen to those who sought to still his voice and turn aside
his faith. R5485:1
He longed for sight, and had faith to believe that the great Messiah might
be prevailed upon to rescue him from darkness. R2729:3
Son of David -- As High Priest, Jesus was prefigured by Aaron; as
Law-giver, by Moses; and as King, by Solomon, David's son. R5484:6
Mark 10:49
Jesus stood still -- He had already passed Bartimaeus by, not offering
to heal him. His eyesight was restored because of his faith, because he
cried out. R5485:1
And commanded him -- He did not shout for him to come, but commanded,
"Let him be brought." R3847:6
To be called -- Giving those about him an opportunity to share in the
work of blessing. R2729:3
They call -- The people first of all bade Bartimaeus keep quiet; but
when Jesus called him, they joined in giving words of encouragement and
helping the blind man to the Savior. So we should encourage the blind, the
superstitious, to come to the Savior. R5486:1
Thus greater attention was brought to the whole miracle and to the divine
power which it manifested. R2729:3
Be of good comfort -- Those who had, a moment before, upbraided the
blind man for his temerity in expecting a blessing from the Messiah, now
gladly bore the message of hope to him. R2729:3
Generally they are without encouragement until they realize their need and
cry to the Lord. These now find assistance from those who delight to
assist them. R3848:4
He calleth thee -- He bade the blind man to come to him, to show his
faith, and thus be a more important lesson to the multitude. R5484:3
It is not within our power to give sight to the spiritually blind. All we
can do is let the blind ones know that Jesus of Nazareth passeth by.
R2730:4
Mark 10:50
Casting away his garment -- In his haste to respond. R3848:1, 2729:5

Whoever would come to Jesus should cast away everything found to be a
hindrance. R2729:6
Mark 10:51
What wilt thou -- Jesus did not inquire respecting his responsibility
for his condition. It was sufficient that he realized that he was blind.
R2730:2
Many today when asked this question request riches, honors of men, or
temporal blessings, instead of spiritual sight. R3848:4
Lord -- The word "lord" here is "rabboni," the most reverential term of
four titles used amongst the Jews at that time--rab, rabbi, rabban,
rabboni. R2729:6; E71, 77 I might receive my sight -- The vast majority
are unlike Bartimaeus. They do not realize their condition--"and knowest
not that thou art wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked."
(Rev. 3:17) R2730:2
Those who respond such do receive enlightenment from the Lord, an
enlightenment by which they can see him who is the Way, the Truth and the
Life. R3848:4
Mark 10:52
Thy faith -- Few of the many blind men in Palestine received such a
blessing, because few had the requisite faith. R3848:1
Received his sight -- All the miracles Jesus performed were foreshadows
of the greater work which is to be accomplished by the establishment of
his Millennial kingdom in due time. R5484:1
Illustrating some at the present time who are brought to the Lord and
graciously receive the opening of the eyes of their understanding. R3848:3
Only the great Physician is able to open the eyes of understanding. R2730:4
Only the few now get their eyes open, as did Bartimaeus, those who hunger
and thirst after righteousness. R5485:5
During the Millennial period all blinded eyes will be opened to the
goodness, greatness, love and power of God. R5485:6
Followed Jesus -- A sincere heart is demonstrated by the fact that,
after he had received his sight, he followed the Lord, glorifying God.
R3848:1
Transformed sinners should thenceforth follow Jesus as his disciples,
seeking to walk in his steps. R2730:1
We were all more or less blinded by the Adversary; and as we get free from
his blinding influence, our hearts rejoice in the favor of him who has
brought us out of darkness into marvelous light. R5485:4
Mark 11
Mark 11:1
And when they came -- Sunday--the first day of our Lord's last week.
R3852:2, 5494:3
Monday forenoon, 10th Nisan. R4212:2*
Nigh to Jerusalem -- About two miles distant. R5494:6
He sendeth forth -- Instead of withdrawing, he was now taking the active
part--sending for the colt, preparing for the triumphal ride to the
capital of the nation as its King. R5494:6
Mark 11:2
A colt -- It has been the custom of the kings of Israel to ride to their
coronation upon an ass. R5494:6
The Lord thus fulfilled the prophecy of Zech. 9:9. R1795:1, 4122:3
Mark 11:3
Send him hither -- Jesus instructed them to say that the colt would be
returned after the Master had used it. R5494:3
Mark 11:7
Cast their garments -- In lieu of a saddle. R5495:1

He sat upon him -- Offering himself as the antitypical Passover Lamb on
the tenth day of the first month. F461
This was the first time Jesus had formally put himself forward. On
previous occasions, when they sought to make him a King, he had withdrawn
himself. R5494:6
A formal matter, fulfilling the prophecy and leaving the nation of Israel
without excuse. R5494:6
The triumphal entry of Jesus on the ass was only typical. The antitype
will be glorious, beyond the veil. R5495:5
Mark 11:8
Spread their garments -- As a mark of respect and honor, waiting until

the little animal had passed over them, and then running on before and
placing them again. R5495:2
Mark 11:9
They that followed -- In contrast to triumphal entries of great

conquerors, Jesus, the Prince of Peace, followed by an army of saints,
walking in his footsteps, presents a beautiful picture--even to the
worldly. These victors conquer by dying. R5495:4
Cried, saying, Hosanna -- The people were familiar with the prophecy
relating to Messiah's coming, which declared "Shout, O daughter of
Jerusalem." (Zech. 9:9) R5495:1
Jesus knew the masses would give him a royal welcome, and swayed by false
teachers, they would a few days later cry, Crucify him! R1795:2
Mark 11:10
Blessed be the kingdom -- Jesus presented himself as their King. B239

"He is Lord of lords and King of kings." (Rev. 17:14) B238
Now their King, their strong tower, had come, but so meek and lowly that
they in their pride of heart could not recognize him. B225
Jesus knew the prophecy, that he would be despised and rejected. Therefore
the journey meant something very different to Jesus from what it signified
to the disciples and multitudes. R5495:1
Prefigured the coming of Christ as King in 1878 AD, the end of this Gospel
age, which is the antitype of the Jewish age, the two being exact
parallels in both time and circumstances. R1795:2; C233
9:12) B225
This exercise of kingly power and authority in the spring of AD 33
typified the raising of the sleeping saints in AD 1878. C233, 234
Hosanna in the highest -- One party crying "Hosanna to the Son of David!
Blessed is the King of Israel!" and the other responding, "Hosanna in the
highest!" R5495:1
Mark 11:11
Jesus entered into Jerusalem -- This action, together with its

chronological order, was performed as a part of that great system of types
which foreshadowed good things to come. R1795:2
Unto Bethany -- Jesus lodged at Bethany, Monday night, 11th Nisan.
R4212:2*
Mark 11:12
And on the morrow -- Monday he drove out the money-changers, etc. R3852:2
Cursing the fig tree and cleansing the Temple on Tuesday forenoon, Nisan
11th. R4212:2*
Mark 11:13
Seeing a fig tree -- Representing the Jewish nation. R5503:2, 5920:5,

4788:4; D604
"Learn a parable of the fig tree." (Mark 13:28) R5920:6
Having leaves -- The good show of leaves was deceptive. R5503:1
The fig tree puts forth its fruit before its leaves appear; and when the
leaves appear, the fruit is ripe. R384:2
Nothing but leaves -- Or, professions and appearance of faithfulness;
but, when searched in their harvest time, were found lacking fruit--cursed
for the age. R384:2
God sent his Son seeking fruit from the Jewish nation, but he found none
as a nation, but only a few individuals. R5920:5, 4788:4
Was not yet -- More properly, it would read, "for the time of the figs
was not over," was not past. It would be strange for Jesus to come before
the proper time to look for figs. R4788:2
The time for harvesting figs was not yet fully come. R384:2
The time for the Jews to bear fruit was not then. R127:2*
The time when they will bear fruit is after the fullness of the Gentiles
has come in. (Rom. 11:25-27) R127:2*
Mark 11:14
No man eat fruit of thee hereafter -- The blight upon the tree because
of its unfruitfulness corresponded exactly to the blight pronounced the
day before upon the Jewish nation because of its unfruitfulness. R5503:2
That Christ used the fig tree to represent the destruction of the Jewish
nation seems evident. R127:1*
"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that
are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together,
as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not; Behold
your house is left unto you desolate." (Luke 13:34, 35) R4788:4
Ever since that time the Jews have been desolate and blighted as a nation.
R5920:6
For ever -- To the end of the aion, or age. R5503:1, 4788:2
Or, to a completion. R5503:1
During the Gospel age, as a nation, they have borne no fruit, but when the
Bride is taken out from the Gentiles, they will receive favor. (Acts
15:14, 16) R127:3*
But there is a promise that this blighted fig tree shall again become a
living tree--a living nation--after their "double" of disfavor has been
fulfilled. R5920:6
"When ye shall see the fig tree putting forth leaves, then know that
summer is nigh." (Matt. 24:32) One of the signs of a new dispensation
would be the sprouting, or indication of life amongst the Jews. R5503:2,
4788:5, 384:2, 127:4*
Mark 11:15
They come to Jerusalem -- Josephus tells us that sometimes the

population of Jerusalem on such an occasion was swelled to the number of
two millions. R4122:6
Into the temple -- Not in the Temple proper, but in its outer courts,
the whole of which was designated the Temple, or house of God. R4123:1
A type of the glorious Temple of perfection; hence, all business done in
it was profanation, spoiling the beautiful perfection of the type. R5504:4
Typical of the true Temple, the Church of the living God. R3851:5
The consecrated or Temple class stands related to the nominal church, as a
whole, as the literal Temple stood related to the holy city Jerusalem, as
a whole. B239
It is assumed, we believe without sufficient authority, that there were
two cleansings. R4122:3, 2332:1
Began to cast out -- Such authority belonged to any Jew under the Law.
R3851:4, 5503:5
The use of force in cleansing the Temple followed the assertion of regal
authority. R2332:1, 4122:3
A further manifestation of his consciousness of his power with the common
people. R3852:6
He had visited the Temple time and again as a Jew, and had witnessed the
same scenes, but had not interfered--a proof that the occurence took place
but once. R4123:2
Primarily, it had to do with that time; secondarily, it was typical of a
cleansing of the antitypical Temple due, we belive, in this our day.
R5503:4
As a typical act, indicating that, in the end of this age, judgment begins
with the professed house of God (1 Pet. 4:17), and his great displeasure
against those who make merchandise of the truth. R1795:5
Typifying the cleansing of the consecrated Temple class since 1878, in
which every selfish, carnal thought, and all worldliness must be cast out,
that the Temple may be clean, God's dwelling place. B239; R3851:5, 4123:3,
1795:2
Overthrew the tables -- Under our laws, it would be quite improper to
enter any church in order to interfere with any of the rights of
conscience or procedures sanctioned by the congregation owning the
edifice. R5503:4
Under the Jewish Law it was different. Every Jew was privileged to enforce
the divine Law in respect to blasphemy or any sacrilege. R5503:5, 4123:2
Typically indicates that in the end of this age judgment begins with the
professed house of God, those who make merchandise of the truth. R1795:5,
3851:6
The moneychangers -- Typifying those in the nominal temple who rob the
people by accepting salaries for that which is not food. R3851:6
A certain Temple tax must be paid in a certain kind of money, called the
"shekel of the sanctuary." The last coinage of these was in BC 140, hence
they were quite scarce in our Lord's day and sold at a premium. R4122:6
Not only visitors from foreign lands needed to purchase shekels of the
sanctuary, but also the home folk. R4122:6
Here money-sharks found opportunity for meeting people in distress, who
came to the Temple for prayer. Jesus referred to them as "those who rob
widows." (Matt. 23:14) R5503:5, 4123:1
Many in the nominal temple today make merchandise of their privileges,
opportunities and knowledge. Roman Catholics are led to believe they can
present nothing acceptable to God except as they receive it through their
priesthood. R4123:3
The collection plate is passed with regularity, and frequently strong
appeals are made for money. R4123:4
The seats of them -- He did not set at liberty the doves, which could
not easily have been recovered, but permitted their owners to take them
away. R4123:2
That sold doves -- The multitudes of strangers from afar rarely brought
with them the doves, pigeons or lambs, etc., which they presented in
sacrifice. R4122:6
The antitypical cleansing now in progress mainly affects those who make
merchandise of holy things. R3851:6
Mark 11:16
Would not suffer -- All this of double significance: (1) Primarily, it

had to do with that time, (2) Secondarily, a cleansing of the antitypical
Temple due in this our day. R5503:4
Mark 11:17
Is it not written -- Every Jew was privileged to enforce the divine Law
in respect to blasphemy or any sacrilege. R5503:4
My house -- In which there were three courts --one for the Jews, one for
Jewish women and an outer court where believing Gentiles might worship.
These courts represent different degrees of approach to God's favor.
R5504:1
"Know ye not that your body is the temple of the holy Spirit?" (1 Cor.
6:19) See also 1 Cor. 3:17; Eph. 2:21; 1 Pet. 2:5. R5504:1
The antitypical Temple may be viewed from four different standpoints.
R5504:2
Of all nations -- The outer Court of the Gentiles, was provided to the
intent that all nationalities might there congregate for worship. It was
probably little used, as few Gentiles had become sincere converts to
Judaism. R4123:1
In the antitypical Temple all mankind, during the Millennium, will be
privileged to draw near to God. R5504:2
The house of prayer -- Thus Peter and John went up to the Temple to
pray. (Acts 3:1) It was the one place of all others in the world where the
soul might feel that it could draw especially near to God. R5503:6
The channel of prayer, the way of approach of mankind to draw near to God
for forgiveness of sins and for the reception of all the blessings and
mercies which God has provided in Christ for whosoever will. R5504:2
Ye have made it -- Thus placing the responsibility upon the scribes and
Pharisees. R5503:5
A den of thieves -- The loan-sharks infested the Temple, pretended
sympathy for those in trouble, and loaned money on exacting terms which
finally devoured the property of the widow and the orphan in a legal
manner. R5503:6
Religion is still used as a cloak to cover selfishness. R5503:6
The professed Christian ministers, teachers, elders, that are
Evolutionists, rob God and take the money of the people deceptively.
R3852:1
Mark 11:18
They feared him -- The truth is being proclaimed so often to the offense
of the scribes and Pharisees of today. R2746:6, 1795:5
Mark 11:19
And when even was come -- Monday. R3852:2

Tuesday night, 12th Nisan. R4212:2*
Mark 11:20
And in the morning -- Tuesday, the last day of his public teaching.
R3852:2
Wednesday forenoon, 12th Nisan. R4212:2*
Mark 11:21
The fig tree -- A type of the Jewish nation, to whom Jesus came when it
was proper to expect fruitage. R4788:4, 5920:5
Cursedst -- Greek, kataraomai, signifying condemnation--to speak
against, to speak evil of, to injure. Jesus injured the tree, he made a
declaration unfavorable to its future development. R2443:3, 701:5
It signifies the very opposite of blessing; it signifies a curse in the
sense usually understood in the English. Webster defines cursed thus:
Deserving a curse; execrable, hateful, detestable; abominable. R701:5
Pronounced a blight. R5920:2
Is withered away -- Because the Jewish nation had not brought forth the
proper fruits. R5920:6
All the sap (spiritually) had gone out of it. R5577:5
Similarly, in the end of this age we may expect the Church will suffer
violence, and anarchy set in. R5577:5
But there is a promise that this blighted Jewish fig tree shall live
again--become a nation. R5920:6
It was not so important that divine displeasure be visited on an
unintelligent tree, but it was important that the disciples get the needed
lesson and that the disciples see that the Lord's power could and would be
exercised on their behalf. R5920:5
Mark 11:22
Have faith in God -- It was necessary that the disciples be convinced by

Jesus' miraculous works that he was sent of God, before they developed
faith. R5920:3
Jesus ascribed always the honor to the Father. R5920:2
He would direct the minds of the disciples to the things that he did as
being always of God--thus differentiating his power from that of Satan.
R5920:2
Mark 11:23
Unto this mountain -- The kingdom of the Evil One. R2522:4

Symbol of difficulties and obstructions in our Christian course. R1967:5
Be thou removed -- God gave no such command; hence, faith would have no
basis for operation. God does not command foolish or unnecessary changes.
R5446:4; Q774:2
By their "faith in God" (verse 22) it was not to them an incredible thing
that God should raise the dead. R875:3*
Cast into the sea -- Sea and waves symbolize the restless masses of
humanity. D596 But shall believe -- Have absolute confidence in the Word
of God. R5446:4
He shall have -- If they should receive a command from God to move a
mountain, and should give the command with faith, the results would
follow. R5446:4
Mark 11:24
What things soever ye desire -- God's children will desire only such things
as he has promised in his Word. R2005:4, 436:6*
But we are cautioned to ask only for such things as the Father has
expressed a willingness to grant. Therefore the child of God must be a
close student of his Father's Word. R2005:4
See that those desires are in accord with the Spirit and Word of God, so
that ye may have a foundation to "believe that ye (are entitled to)
receive them, and ye shall have them." R436:6*
That ye receive -- That ye shall receive. R2005:4
Ye shall have them -- We should look for answers in natural rather than
supernatural channels. R2006:1
Mark 11:25
Praying, forgive -- The very essence of Christian principle is love,

sympathy, forgiveness of the faults of others. We may not forgive in the
absolute sense until our forgiveness is asked, yet we should be always in
a forgiving attitude. R2253:3, 1693:6
May forgive you -- Only the merciful shall obtain mercy. (Matt. 5:7)
R2587:1
Mark 12
Mark 12:1
Began to speak -- A part of our Lord's discourse on the last day of his
public ministry. R1982:2
A certain man -- Jehovah God. R1982:3, 2756:1, 1795:3
Planted a vineyard -- The Jewish nation, typifying Christendom in the
harvest of the Gospel age. "For the vineyard of the Lord of hosts is the
house of Israel." (Isa. 5:7) R1982:3, 2756:1, 1795:3
An hedge about it -- The divine Law, the testimony of the prophets, the
special supervision and fatherly guardianship of God and the ministration
of his faithful servants, all of which served to separate them from
ungodly, surrounding nations, and to protect them from their influence.
R1795:3
For the winefat -- Or wine press, including the vat for the reception of
the juice. R1795:3
Representing Israel's advantages; the worship of the sanctuary, the
leadings and teachings of Jehovah, etc. R1795:6
Built a tower -- A watch tower, for the protection of the vineyard,
representing God's care over it in setting watchmen, the prophets and
others, upon the towers of Zion. (Ezek. 3:17; Isa. 62:6; Jer. 6:17) R1795:6
Let it out -- From the time of the exodus to the coming of
Messiah--nearly 19 centuries. R1982:3
To husbandmen -- The priests and leaders of the people. R1795:6, 1982:3
The Pharisees and Doctors of the Law, whose duty it was to care for the
vineyard. R2756:1, 1795:6
The divinely constituted leaders of the nation from the time of the exodus
to the time of the coming of Messiah. R1982:3
Mark 12:2
At the season -- At such times as it was proper to expect some fruit.

R1796:1
The appointed harvest time, in which those addressed were then living.
R1795:6
A servant -- A prophet or teacher. R1796:1
His faithful prophets. R1982:5
That he might receive -- "He looked for judgment, but behold oppression;
for righteousness, but behold a cry." (Isa. 5:7) R1982:3, 1795:3
From the husbandmen -- Through their influence. R1796:1
The rulers in Israel, because of their influence and power, were held
responsible for the course of the nation. R1796:1
Of the fruit -- The Lord had a right to expect gratitude, love,
obedience, meekness, and readiness of mind and heart to follow further
leadings into new paths. R1795:6
Mark 12:3
They caught him -- Seeking honor one of another, and not God's glory.
R2756:1
Beat him -- Verses 3-5 refer to the shameful handling of the worthy
servants of the Lord. R1796:1, 1982:5
Mark 12:5
Beating some, and killing some -- See Jer. 37:13-21; 1 Kings 18:13;
22:24-27; 2 Kings 6:31; 2 Chron. 24:20, 21; 36:16; Acts 7:52; Heb.
11:35-38. R1796:1
Mark 12:6
One son -- The Lord Jesus. R1796:1, 1982:5

Will reverence my son -- Though God knew it would be otherwise, it is so
expressed to show the reasonableness of such expectation. R1796:1
Mark 12:7
Those husbandmen -- The chief priests and rulers. R1796:1

The scribes and Pharisees who sat in Moses' seat. R2755:6
Among themselves -- They plotted privately and deceitfully. R1796:1
This is the heir -- This man claims to be the King, the Messiah of the
Jews. R1796:1
Let us kill him -- Crucifying our Lord. R1796:3 Shall be ours -- We
shall retain our prestige and power. R1796:2
Their selfish ambition to retain their stewardship. R1982:5, 1796:2
They did not realize that the course they were taking was the very one
which would lead to the destruction of that typical kingdom of God. R5505:3
Mark 12:8
Killed him -- A prophecy of the murderous culmination of the wicked

purposes even then filling their hearts. R1796:4
Mark 12:9
Destroy the husbandmen -- Cast the chief priests and rulers out of their
offices. R1796:4, 1982:6
The overthrow of the Jewish system, or polity. R2756:1
Unto others -- The establishment of a new order of things through other
servants--our Lord Jesus and his apostles, who did not seek honors to
themselves, but sought the glory of God and the welfare of his vineyard.
Teachers of the Gospel. R2756:1, 5505:4, 4678:5, 1982:6
The Gentiles. R1796:4
Similarly, those in high positions as representatives of God today, who
misuse their office and symbolically "murder" the Lord's people, will be
dealt with. R4678:6
Mark 12:10
The stone -- "The stone which the builders refused is become the
headstone of the corner" (Psa. 118:22)--the top-stone of a pyramid, the
chief corner stone. R1982:6, 5505:6
The top-stone, Christ Jesus, the head-stone of God's building, pattern for
the whole, stone of stumbling and rock of offence. C329; R5505:6
The result of the stumbling of the nominal Gospel church over this stone
will be the same as in the Jewish church (Isa. 8:14); they will be broken.
R1983:4
With this example, how careful should every Christian be. R1983:4
Which the builders rejected -- This stone might be rejected by them
then, but that would not hinder its exaltation in God's due time as the
chief stone in the glorious temple of God. R1982:6
Is become -- Referring to his triumph in the resurrection and his future
glory. R1796:4
Exaltation as the chief stone in the glorious spiritual Temple of God.
R1982:6
Mark 12:12
Against them -- The Jews. R1795:3

So aptly did it represent their state of heart that its only effect was to
rouse them to renewed energy to fulfil the final prediction of the
parable. (verse 13) R1795:3
Mark 12:13
They send unto him -- On the last day of our Lord's public ministry.
R3852:2, 1756:6
Of the Pharisees -- Who privately taught that the Jews as the people of
God should never pay taxes to other rulers. R3852:6
And -- The counsellors were of different factions, quite opposed to each
other, but drawn together by mutual interest in their opposition to Jesus.
R2756:1
Thus it ever is with error; the most contrary theorists are ready to
cooperate with each other in opposition to the truth. R2756:2
Of the Herodians -- Not Jews at all, but, like Herod, Ishmaelites--sons
of Abraham through Hagar; as the Jews were his sons through Sarah. They
were not religious, but, in a considerable measure, politicians. R2756:2
Who stood firmly, boldly and publicly for the suzerainty of the Roman
Empire, claiming that it was to the advantage of the people of Israel to
be under Roman power, and that the paying of tribute was right and proper.
R3853:1
To catch him -- If possible to get him to commit himself to some
treasonable statement, on account of which they could bring him before
Pilate as an enemy of the Roman empire, and thus have him legally executed
in a manner which the people could not resist. R3852:6
The Jew was aroused to renewed energy to fill up the iniquitous measure of
their guilty fathers and so fulfill the final prediction of the parable.
R1795:3
When they thought to entrap him in his words, he entrapped them in their
words. But he reviled not. R4802:6 The most contrary theorists are ready
to cooperate with each other in opposition to the truth. R2756:2
In his words -- To get him to either declare with the Herodians that the
tax was right and thus break his influence with the people, or to publicly
side with the Pharisees, denounce the tax, and thus be open to the charge
of treason. R3853:1
Feeling he would either lay himself open to the charge of teaching
sedition, and therefore liable to arrest as an opponent of Herod and
Caesar; or, by approving the taxes, they esteemed he would alienate from
himself many of the Jews who were now regarding him favorably. R2756:2,
3853:1; Q273:6
Mark 12:14
Thou art true -- Subtly stated to compel Jesus to give a straightforward

answer which they believed would convict him of treason. R3853:1
All of their complimentary remarks stood to his credit in the minds of the
common people. Q274:1
Mark 12:15
Knowing their hypocrisy -- Veiling their base designs under guise of

speaking for the Truth. Q274:1
Our Lord understood the situation in an instant. R3853:2
Why tempt ye -- Why do you try to entrap me? Look at the motives in your
own hearts and judge of how much sincerity or falsity is there. R3853:2
Thus, in a word, he showed that he perceived the real animus of their
question. R2756:3
Me -- It was utter folly for imperfect men to seek to entrap the perfect
one. R104:2
A penny -- Literally, the census coin, in which the tax was to be paid;
a denarius, the usual wage for the day laborer, corresponding in value to
17 of our cents. Q274:1; R3853:2, 2758:3
Mark 12:17
Render to Caesar -- Not an evasion of the question, it was an answer in

the fullest sense. R3853:3, 2756:3
To the extent there is no conflict with the commands of our Over-Lord.
R5929:2; A266
That are Caesar's -- "Tribute to whom tribute is due." (Rom. 13:7)
R1555:5; A266
To the disciples this would imply that the affairs of the world may be
safely left with the world, under the Lord's supervision, for he is able
to make even the wrath of men to praise him. R3853:3
If Caesar gives us liberty to vote, it is not necessary that we should use
that liberty; but should he command us to vote, it would be proper for us
to comply and use our best judgment. R3853:4; A266
God's people are to be subject to the powers that be, and to wait for
God's kingdom, rather than to attempt opposition, insurrection, conflict
with the laws of earthly authorities. R2756:3
And to God -- "What shall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits to
me? I will take the cup of salvation and call upon the name of the Lord."
(Psa. 116:12, 13) R3853:5
Things that are God's -- A lesson to the Lord's people to keep religious
affairs separate and distinct from worldly politics. R2756:3
As originally created, man bore God's image stamped upon his very nature.
The ones addressed should have also remembered that God's superscription
was upon them, that he had accepted them as his people--Israel. R2756:3
The heart, the life, the affections, belong to God, and should be rendered
to him. R2756:4 It is but a reasonable service that we should present to
the Lord the little all that we possess in this present life. R3853:5
They marvelled -- They were put to silence, they could take no
exceptions to such an answer. R2756:4
Mark 12:18
Come unto him -- No doubt, boastfully. R2756:4

The Sadducees -- A class of Jews, well educated, intellectual, but
utterly lacking in any faith respecting a future life. Whether or not they
believed in a God we are not informed. R3854:1
The Agnostics or Rationalists of that time. R2756:4
No resurrection -- Greek: anastasis, is without the Greek article,
showing no emphasis, indicating no special peculiarity. With the article,
the first or special resurrection is meant. R1512:1
They asked him -- To entrap him. R3853:6
Mark 12:19
Moses wrote -- In Deut. 25:2-10. R3854:1

Raise up seed -- The object of that law seemingly was to prevent the
obliteration of any family. R3854:1
Mark 12:20
Now there were -- The question was probably a suppositious one, though
stated as a fact. R3854:1
Mark 12:23
In the resurrection -- Greek, anastasis, "raising up," all the way up to

the divine likeness represented and lost in Adam. R1510:4
Mark 12:24
Jesus answering -- Our Lord did not attempt a particular answer to their
question, knowing that they were not sincere and that it was not yet time
to give an explanation of many of the details respecting the resurrection.
R3854:2
Do ye not therefore err -- The difficulty was with them, and not with
the divine plan. R2756:5
They had thought to make the teaching of Jesus concerning resurrection
look ridiculous. R5059:3, 3854:1
Power of God -- Who is abundantly able to arrange for all the exigencies
which will arise in the perfecting of his own gracious plans and promises.
R2756:5, 3854:2
Mark 12:25
When they shall rise -- Without designating the resurrection of the

Church or the resurrection of the world, stating the matter broadly in
such a way as to apply to both. R3854:2
They neither marry -- The restored human family will, during the period
of restitution, lose their sexual distinctions, and at the end of the
thousand years be all of them in perfection, like Adam was before Eve was
taken from his side. R3854:3; T101
Are as the angels -- As the angels do not die, neither will the
perfected human beings die. R3461:6
Mark 12:26
As touching the dead -- It is the dead who need a resurrection. Note our
Lord does not say "as touching the living that they shall arise." R3854:5
That they rise -- They are to be raised, they are not extinct. E352;
R3854:4
In the book of Moses -- To show that there were various features of the
Old Testament which indirectly taught the resurrection, without mentioning
it in so many words. R3854:4, 2756:5
God of Abraham...Isaac...Jacob -- They had reasoned the Old Testament
said little about resurrection. Jesus showed them that the Scriptures
indirectly taught the resurrection without mentioning it in so many words.
R3854:4, 5059:6, 2796:4; CR374:2
If they were dead, extinct, without hope of a resurrection, God would
never speak of them in this manner. R2796:4, 2756:5
God's grounds for speaking of humanity as yet having a hope of life beyond
the grave rests not upon any change of the sentence, but upon a
predetermined plan to provide a Savior. R2198:1
Mark 12:27
Of the dead -- The extinct, for whom no future is designed. R2198:1,

5059:6; CR374:2
Not the God of a dead camel, etc., because he had made no provision for
the resurrection of camels, etc.; but his provision for the resurrection
of the human dead constitutes a full explanation of his statement
here--that he is still the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. R3854:4
Of the living -- From God's standpoint they only sleep. E353; R5059:6
Mark 12:28
One of the scribes -- A man of more than average education. R5521:2

Asked him -- Quite probably in all sincerity, and not to entrap Jesus.
R5521:2
Which is the first -- Quite a common question among the Jews. R3861:2
A theological question much discussed amongst the Jewish rabbis; a
question upon which they were very generally divided. R2756:5
Of all -- Doubtless referring to the Decalogue. R5521:3
Mark 12:29
Jesus answered -- With a quotation from the Old Testament. (Deut. 6:4,
5) He added nothing, because nothing could be added. R5521:3, 2756:6
Quoting from the summary of the Ten Commandments. R3861:2
Hear, O Israel -- This declaration which the Jews called "The Shama" was
considered sacred. Therefore, there could be no objection to our Lord's
answer. R2756:6
Not merely the "ten tribes," but "all Israel." R1341:1; C229
God is one Lord -- And not three Gods. The Son of God is not the Father,
but the Son, who "proceeded forth from the Father," who was the beginning
of the creation of God. (John 8:42; Rev. 3:14) R3861:5
Trinitarians and Unitarians seem to have divided the truth between them so
that neither one possesses it in the Scriptural sense. R3861:3
Mark 12:30
Thou shalt love the Lord -- Love is the principal thing. God is love.
R5521:3, 5370:1
"Love is the fulfilling of the law " (Rom. 13:10) Only in proportion as
love is in the heart can this divine law be fulfilled by any. R2757:1
All comprehensive: The Lord must be first with us in every sense of the
word. R3861:6
Will be required of mankind, and all those whom God accept's as members of
The Christ. R4597:1
This fullness of love for the Father represents, not the beginning of the
consecrated Christian's condition, but its fullness, its completeness.
R3862:1
The mark of character, which is that which the law of God places as the
smallest condition which would be acceptable to him--the mark of perfect
love. Q274:3
The sentiment of personal responsibility to God maintained in all of
Israel's laws, the spirit of which is today recognized as the very best
statement of human obligation. OV10:1
Thirty centuries have failed to improve upon this statement. OV10:1
The terms of the New Covenant are the perfect obedience to God as
represented in this Law. R4597:1
The reason why the Jews could not keep the Law was that they did not have
perfect love in their hearts. R2757:1
Failure to keep this law will bring the time of trouble. A309
The writings of Confucius, that one should not do to others what he would
not have others do to him, is merely a negative statement, while this is a
positive one. R5521:6
Thy God -- Jehovah. E40
First reverence--later love. We cannot love God until we have become
acquainted with him and ascertained the lovable qualities represented in
him. R3862:1
With all thy heart -- By perfect obedience to this Law even unto death,
our Lord fulfilled the Law Covenant, redeemed mankind, and became heir of
the Abrahamic promise. B84, 85
This means the full consecration of time, talent, influence, everything.
R3862:1
Our affections must all reverence and love him. R3861:6
Heart conversion results from the knowledge of God and the love for him.
R3735:4
The Lord thus epitomized the Ten Commandments, which are in themselves a
brief epitome of the whole Law. A45; HG533:3
Any one who kept this Law would not be serving self. R5666:3
Such love does not wait for commands but will appeal for service. F124
Ultimately this Law must govern all of God's intelligent creatures who
will have life. A136
With all thy soul -- Our being, our bodies, must all be controlled by
the love of God. R3861:6
You cannot do more than that, except as Jesus did, by laying down that
life. Q365:2
With all thy mind -- Our minds must recognize, reverence and love the
Lord. R3862:1
With all thy strength -- Our strength of mind or body must recognize him
as worthy of every loving service we can render. R3862:1
The first commandment -- The confession of faith which Abraham Lincoln
considered should be the sole qualification for church membership--the
Savior's condensed statement of both Law and Gospel. HG718:6
Mark 12:31
And the second -- He divided the Law into two parts, as on the two
tables of stone; the one part relating to God and man's obligations to his
Creator; and the second part relating to man's responsibilities toward his
fellow-man. R2756:6
Second only to the previous statement of the love to God. R3862:4
Namely this -- Quoting from Lev. 19:18. R3862:4
Love thy neighbour -- The government instituted by Moses was a model of
fairness and justice between brethren, and also the stranger and
foreigner. OV10:1
"If any man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar; for he
that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God, whom
he hath not seen?" R3862:4
As thyself -- Not better than thyself. Our Lord's self-sacrifice in our
behalf went beyond this requirement. R3804:6
These two parts were a synoptical statement of the entire Law of God.
R5755:3
The keeping of these two commends would touch upon, cover and include
every item of the divine Law. R3862:4
Mark 12:34
Not far from the kingdom -- Very near to the point where he might become
one of his disciples. R5522:1
One of sincere and honest heart--the kind whom the Lord would be pleased
to have enter the kingdom class. R3862:6, 5522:2
Durst ask him -- Fearing further questioning would show their
deficiencies and make him more prominent. R3862:6
Mark 12:35
How say the scribes -- Not endeavoring to entrap them as they endeavored
to do with him; but because there is no better method of presenting a
truth strikingly than through a wisely directed question. R2757:3
The son of David -- The long-promised King of David's line, the Messiah.
PD65/77; C257; E130, 133; SM210:2
Mark 12:36
By the Holy Ghost -- By inspiration. E129

Said to my Lord -- Greek: Adon; master, ruler. E129, 49
The resurrected Messiah. E136
Sit thou -- Against the trinitarian view of several persons in divine
power, "equal in power and glory." R2757:5
On my right hand -- Position of power, authority, rulership. A92
Associated with me in the kingdom, highest in my favor. R2757:5
Mark 12:37
Calleth him Lord -- In the days of his flesh he was the Son of David,
but in his glorification he is David's Lord in that David will receive
through him the blessings of participation in the Messianic kingdom. Q365:4
The matter thoroughly upheld our Lord's claim that Messiah must have a
divine origin, divine authority, and be backed by divine power in whatever
he would do. R2757:5
Is he then his son? -- The father of Messiah in the flesh will thus
become the son of the Messiah of glory. R365:4
The common people -- To whom especially the message was sent during the
last half of the 70th week of favor. C170
Publicans and sinners. R2414:2
Who knew not the Law, and had not heretofore heard the invitation. R342:6
The publicans and harlots were not made subject of special missionary
efforts. When these classes came to his ministry, manifested interest and
showed signs of repentance and reformation, he received them cordially.
R2414:2
The powers of darkness are greatest in the more influential and the better
educated. SM241:1
Heard him gladly -- And insisted on his recognition as King. C170
Because the Master taught plainly, not employing the questionable course
of putting special meanings on terms in common use, as do the Christian
Scientists. HG704:5*
Mark 12:38
Beware -- If any find in themselves the enumerated characteristics, he

should flee from the sin as he would from a contagious disease. R3863:4
We are not necessarily to reverence and follow Doctors of Divinity, but
are to be discriminating in regard to the respect we have for them and
their teachings. R3863:4
Of the scribes -- Doctors of the Law--in our own times, Doctors of
Divinity. R3863:3
Our Lord did not say that all of the scribes, all of the learned Doctors
of the Law, had the disreputable qualities he reproved. R3863:3
The more one knows, the more of a scribe he is, the greater will be his
condemnation if the characteristics here set forth by our Lord are his.
R3863:5
In long clothing -- Long robes of profession. R3863:4
If one finds himself greatly influenced by the opinion of others
respecting his clothing, let him beware. R3863:5
Love salutations -- If one finds in himself a self-seeking, a selfish
disposition to grasp the best for himself on all occasions, and loves
public praise and recognition, titles, etc., let him beware. R3863:5
In the marketplaces -- Greek, agora, root of agorazo, to redeem. E429
Mark 12:40
Devour widows' houses -- Covetousness, greed, love of money led them to

disregard dishonestly the rights of others. R5389:3
Taking advantage of technicalities of law to take possession of a poor
widow's substance. R5338:6, 5389:3, 4795:2
Buying cheaply at forced sale. R3316:2
The sin of selfishness, avarice, indicates a lack of the Spirit of the
Lord. R4795:2
Mark 12:41
People cast money -- Apparently with willing hearts. R5522:4
Mark 12:42
A certain poor widow -- She may have become a disciple. It is of just

such self-sacrificing material that the Lord makes disciples. R5522:5
She threw in -- Not in an ostentatious manner for the coins were too
small to boast about. R5522:4
The Lord knew that the woman was giving money to an institution which was
repudiating him and which shortly would be destroyed because of being
unworthy to continue. R5522:5
Two mites -- The smallest copper coins in circulation--each worth about
one-eighth of a cent. R5522:4
However small our talents, however few or limited our opportunities of
service, our offerings are not despised, but are credited proportionately
to the real spirit of sacrifice prompting them. R3863:6
The Lord in making his estimate will take knowledge of the spirit which
actuated us, rather than of the results secured by our efforts; so that of
some small talent it may be said, as it was said of the poor widow who
casts in the two mites into the treasury--that the smaller gift was more
appreciated by the Lord than some of the larger ones. R3166:3
The very small affairs of our lives, the very small sacrifices, the very
small self-denials, will be great in the Master's sight if they denote,
love, devotion and self-sacrifice. R5522:5
Mark 12:43
He called unto him -- We assume Jesus, by divine power, knew the woman,
her circumstances and the amount of her gift. R5522:4
I say unto you -- This shows the Lord's appreciation of sacrifices and
services. R5522:4
Cast more in -- Her gift was greater in God's sight because she had
given that which would cause self-denial. R3863:5
If our gifts to his service be actually small, they are accepted in
proportion to what we have, in proportion to what the gifts cost us in the
way of self-denials. R1594:4
The very small sacrifices, self-denials, in the Master's sight will be
great, if they denote love to the Lord and his cause. R5522:5, 3863:6
Mark 12:44
Of their abundance -- The loss of which they perhaps would not seriously
feel. R5522:4, 3863:5
Cast in -- Whoever loves another will seek to serve him and be willing
to render service at an expense that would be proportionate to his love.
R3863:6
All that she had -- Our gifts are accepted in proportion to what we
have--in proportion to the cost to us in self-denials. R1594:4; F344
Let us see to it, not only that we do with our might what our hands find
to do, but also that our every sacrifice and gift to the Lord and his
cause is so full of love and devotion that the Lord will surely approve
it; as done from love for him and his, and not from vain glory. R3166:3
Similarly, a poor brother donated $2, saying it was the result of his
walking instead of riding to daily work, and other small extras he had
willingly denied himself to be able to share in the spread of the truth.
R1672:
One, who gave more than half of his possession to the Lord's service and
would have given more, was counselled otherwise, urged to keep enough to
maintain self and family, so that he could give his time in the service of
the truth. R2078:3
Even all her living -- Practically all that she had. R5522:4
The Lord did not caution her. F344
Mark 13
Mark 13:5
Take heed -- Appears four times in this chapter: lest any one deceive
you (verse 5); to yourselves, what ye say and do (verse 9); to what I have
told you (verse 23) and, watch and pray (verse 33). R566:1*
Mark 13:6
Saying, I am Christ -- Not the fanatics who from time to time have
claimed to be Christ and have deceived but few, but the great church
systems of men which have so counterfeited the genuine Messiah (Head and
Body) as to partially deceive many. D580, 565
Mark 13:7
Ye shall hear of wars -- Thus briefly did our Lord summarize secular
history, and teach the disciples not to expect very soon his second coming
and glorious kingdom. D566
Rumours of wars -- Threats, intrigues of wars. D566
Mark 13:8
Kingdom against kingdom -- It will be the thorough transition from the

reign of sin and death to the reign of righteousness and life which will
cause the great time of trouble marking the closing of the Gospel age.
R5399:6
And troubles -- The great time of trouble. R5399:6
Beginning of sorrows -- Primary sorrows, the secular history of the
Gospel age. D566
Mark 13:9
But take heed -- Thus Jesus forewarned how we would be treated. R356:5
Deliver you up -- During that same period, the Gospel age. D566
In the synagogues -- They could teach the people there for a time, but
as they shunned not to declare the whole counsel of God, they soon found
little, and finally no opportunity, to teach the people in the synagogues.
R986:5
Ye shall be beaten -- As the disciples of Jesus met thereafter from
house to house, but, if bold for the truth, were no longer permitted in
the Jewish synagogues, so we no longer meet with the nominal Gospel
church, which is now so overrun with tares that the wheat cannot flourish.
R356:5
Mark 13:10
Must first be published -- This witness has already been given. The word
of the Lord, the Gospel of the kingdom, has been published to every nation
of the earth. D568
In 1861, reports of the Bible Societies showed that the Gospel had been
published in every language of earth. A91
Among all nations -- The commission given at the beginning of the age:
"Go ye and teach all nations." (Matt. 28:19) C215
"This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a
witness unto all nations." (Matt. 24:12) A91; D169, 567
Does not imply the conversion of the world. He says nothing about how the
testimony will be received. This witness has already been given. A91;
D169, 567, 568
Mark 13:13
Ye shall be hated -- The mob spirit, the lynching spirit, is but a less
legal form of "The Holy Inquisition." Evidences multiply that the mob
spirit, the Inquisition spirit, is growing. All should be on guard. PD48/97
Mark 13:14
When ye shall see -- Recognize, discern, distinguish. R710:6; B268, 271;

D572, 573
Understand, recognize, identify. D572
The abomination, defilement and desolation are old; but so gross was the
darkness of error during centuries past that few, if any, could see it.
D572
The abomination -- That Wicked One (2 Thes. 2:8), the Man of Sin (2
Thes. 2:3), the Mystery of Iniquity (2 Thes. 2:7), the Antichrist (1 John
4:3), the Son of Perdition (2 Thes. 2:3), the Beast (Rev. 13:1), the
Little Horn (Dan. 7:8), the Papacy. B271, 277
The Papal doctrines of transubstantiation and the sacrifice of the Mass,
supplemented now by theories of self-atonement by Papacy's imitators. C98,
99; D572
Whose foundation rests in the doctrine of the Mass, which substitutes
human performances instead of the great sacrifice of Calvary for the
cleansing away of sin. D572
In another parallelism, fleshly Israel's rejection of the true sacrifice
for sins and their retention of the typical sacrifices were no longer
acceptable to God, but abominations. D572
Standing -- Having stood. D573
Where it ought not -- In the holy place. (Matt. 24:15) God's holy place
or true temple, the Church. D572, 573; C26
In the holy place, in the stead of the true sacrifice. D573
Let him that readeth -- Reader. D573
Understand -- Consider. D573
Take heed and not be mistaken regarding the real abomination. C26
That be in Judea -- Christendom, the system falsely styling itself
Christ's kingdom, not literal Judea, as it is itself a hill country. D573
Flee -- From the influence of the abomination and from the system
falsely styling itself Christ's kingdom, mountain. D573
To the mountains -- The true mountain, Christ's kingdom. D573
The Greek may with equal or greater propriety be rendered in the
singular--mountain--and is so rendered in a majority of instances in the
Common Version. D573
Mark 13:15
On the housetop -- Represents the most saintly of the people of God.

R5456:4
Of the church systems of Babylon. House-top saints, who have a higher life
and experience and faith than merely nominal church members. D575
Not go down -- All temporizing or human reasoning will be dangerous; no
time must be lost in obeying. D574
Into the house -- Represents the house of God. R5456:4
Nominal church systems. D575
Take any thing out -- Their valuables in human estimation, such as
titles, dignities, respect, commendations of good and regular standing,
etc. D575; R5456:4
Everything must be forsaken. R5456:4; D575
Mark 13:16
That is in the field -- In the world, outside of all human

organizations. D574
Any of the Lord's people who have left the nominal church, and gone out
into the world. R5456:4
Not turn back again -- Not join the nominal churches. D574
But flee to the Lord. R5456:4
Take up his garment -- Their valuables in human estimation. D575
Mark 13:17
Woe to them -- How difficult it is to flee from the nominal church

system with its multitudinous machinery for false and rapid begetting,
which they have learned to glory in and boast of. D576
They will fear to flee in this day; realizing that but few of their
"babes" would be able or willing to join in the flight. Indeed, only the
spiritual will be able to endure the ordeal. D577
The perils would seem overdrawn if applicable only to the physical
sufferings of the believers who fled in the Jewish harvest; but his words
are manifestly appropriate to the spiritual flight and trials of this
harvest time. D574
That are with child -- There are spiritual "babes" as well as fleshly
babes, and bastards as well as sons. D575
All faithful servants of Christ, all earnest laborers for souls, are such
as are described in this text as being "with child." D575
With spiritual children, begotten of error instead of truth, hence
spurious, not sons of God. (Heb. 12:8) D576
And to them -- Ministers, Sunday School teachers--those whose work
consists in giving out "milk." D576
Them that give suck -- Includes many ministers and Sunday School
teachers, whose religious work consists in giving out "milk"; not always
pure, sometimes diluted with tradition and philosophy, opiates which keep
their babes docile, sleepy and "good," but hinder their growth in
knowledge and grace. D577
Mark 13:18
Not in the winter -- The winter-time of Babylon's trouble--the burning

of the tares in a great time of trouble. D578
"The harvest is past, the summer is ended (winter has come), and we are
not saved. (Jer. 8:20) D578
It is still the custom in country places to leave the burning off of
refuse until the winter. D578
Mark 13:19
For in those days -- The trouble coming will be the outgrowth of

selfishness, which is fast ripening. R1470:2
As a result of selfishness reaching its limit, becoming ripe and going to
seed. SM266:1
Affliction, such as -- More terrible as well as more general. D540
Neither shall be -- It will never need to be repeated. R1519:4
Mark 13:20
Except that the Lord -- So great will this trouble be that without some
intervening power to cut it short the entire race would eventually be
exterminated. D579
Those days -- The anarchy of the world. C366
For the elect's sake -- Through or by the elect, who will intervene at
the proper time. D578, 579
His kingdom, Christ and his Church, will intervene at the proper time and
bring order out of earth's confusion. D579
Shortened the days -- The work of destruction will be "a short work."
(Rom. 9:28) D558, 578
Mark 13:21
And then -- That is, now. D581

Lo, here is Christ -- Displaying himself as the only representative of
Christ--the Pope, the Sovereign of England, the Czar of Russia, the
Synods, Conferences, and Councils. D580
Anticipating a greater deception by the increased power of unified
Protestant denominations cooperating with Papacy, the "Image of the
beast." (Rev. 13:15) D581
Or, lo, he is there -- In any particular place. B165
Believe him not -- Our Lord's revelation at his second presence will not
be in a room, nor to a community in a wilderness or desert place, nor even
to one nation, as at the first advent, but it will be a general world-wide
manifestation. D583
Mark 13:22
For false Christ's -- Deceptions. R113:6

False prophets -- False teachers. R113:6
And shall shew -- Lead into confusion and error. R113:6
Signs and wonders -- Through the assistance of the fallen angels, more
than even Spiritists have dreamed of. R2189:3, 4351:2, 2179:1
To seduce -- By suggesting the abandonment of the way of the cross, and
cooperation in "social uplift." E115
If it were possible -- The "strong delusions" upon Christendom will not
be permitted to deceive "the very elect." R3296:1, 4438:6
But so close will they be in sympathetic fellowship with the great
Shepherd that they will discern his voice and not be deceived. R4438:6
To those who abide in Christ, grace, wisdom, and aid sufficient will be
granted for their time of need. F192
If the Lord did not protect them by the "armor of God." (Eph. 6:11-18)
R3490:4
Even the elect -- The "very elect," those who "make their calling and
election sure." (2 Pet. 1:10) F165
The "very elect" will be shielded by the Truth and its holy Spirit. R4351:2
Mark 13:24
In those days, after that tribulation -- Still in the 1260 years of

Papal power, but after the brunt of the tribulation had passed. D585
The tribulation "of those days" should be clearly distinguished from the
tribulation at the end of those days, in which this age and harvest will
close. D583
The sun -- Symbolically, the Gospel light, the truth--and thus Christ
Jesus. D590
Shall be darkened -- Literally, in the dark day of May 19, 1780 which
extended over 320,000 square miles. D587
The nominal church's sun is being darkened, its moon is being turned into
blood, and its stars are falling. D591
Symbolically, by denial that we were bought with the precious blood, and
by substituting the theory of Evolution. D592
And the moon -- Symbolically, the light of the Mosaic Law. D590
The darkening of the moon at its full the night following May 19, 1780,
seems to have been little less remarkable than the darkening of the sun.
D587
The moon as a symbol represents the light of the Mosaic Law. As the moon
is a reflection of the light of the sun, so the Law was the shadow, or
reflection beforehand of the Gospel. D590
Not give her light -- "Shall be turned into blood," (Joel 2:31; Acts
2:20)--the Law comes to be regarded merely as a meaningless and barbaric
ceremony of blood. D593
As the sunlight of the ransom becomes obscured, so the moonlight of the
Mosaic Law, which in its sacrifices foreshadowed the ransom, must of
necessity become obscured also. D592
Mark 13:25
And the stars -- The Scriptures do not distinguish between stars and
meteors, as is commonly done in our day. D588 The word star (Greek: aster)
is not used respecting any of the faithful (outside the apostles) in
referring to them in this present life; but it is used in reference to
those who depart from the truth and become "heady." D594
Symbolically, the false stars, wandering stars (Jude 13), pulpit stars,
regarding themselves of equal or superior authority with the "twelve
stars" (Rev. 12:1), and the inspired apostles (2 Cor. 11:13), Rev.
2:2) D591, 593, 594
Shall fall -- Literally, the meteoric shower of Nov. 13, 1833. D588
The teachings of the God-ordained twelve stars of the Church, the
apostles, will fade from view--cease to be recognized guides or lights.
D593
Many of the false stars have fallen from every pretense of Gospel shining
to the level of the comprehension of the masses to whom they shine. D596
Symbolically, the false stars make a great display in coming down from
spiritual to earthly conditions--to the Christian-citizenship-politics
level. D595
And the powers -- The sectarian creeds and systems. D597
That are in heaven -- The nominal church. D600
The heavens represent the ecclesiastical powers of Christendom. D591
The religious powers and influences of the world. R1305:2
Shall be shaken -- This shaking is already begun. R1305:2, 5516:6
Mark 13:26
And then -- At that same time. D597

Shall they see -- With the eyes of their understanding. D600; B153
Some will see the divine plan of the ages and recognize it as one of the
signs of the presence. (Luke 12:37) D599
Coming in the clouds -- Clouds of trouble. B152
The tribes of earth will see the clouds of trouble and confusion incident
to the shaking of the "heavens" and realize it to be a storm which shall
shake the "earth" also. (Heb. 12:26, 27) D600
The judgment of Babylon, Christendom, social and ecclesiastical, is
another sign that the Judge has come. D599
Power and glory -- The glory of power and justice. B153
In his glorious body, (Phil. 3:21) a spiritual body. (1 Cor. 15:44-49)
R261:2
Mark 13:27
Send his angels -- Messengers as he has used throughout this

age--earthly servants, begotten of his holy Spirit. D601
Colporteurs, magnetically attracting the "wheat" class, are flying through
the midst of heaven giving sympathy, consolation and Christian love which
hearts have longed for and nowhere else found. R4541:2
Messengers of the new King of earth. D600
Gather together -- For this gathering the Lord has provided a general
unity, sympathy, and teaching through a general channel. F274
"Make up my jewels." (Mal. 3:17) B164
Gathering of the good fish into baskets. (Matt. 13:47-49) D600
Gathering of the wheat from the tares into the barn (Matt. 13:30), the
calling of "my people" out of Babylon. (Rev. 18:4) D600
His elect -- All of the consecrated class accepting the high calling of
God and to whom a crown is apportioned. F165
From the four winds -- From every quarter. D601
Part of heaven -- The nominal church. D600
Mark 13:28
Of the fig tree -- The incident of the Lord cursing the fig tree (Matt.
21:19, 20) inclines us to believe that the fig tree in this prophecy may
be understood to signify the Jewish nation. D604
The Jewish nation. D604; R5503:2
Branch is yet tender -- The buds will thrive, but will bear no perfect
fruit before October 1914, the full end of "Gentile Times." D604
Putteth forth leaves -- One of the signs of a new dispensation would be
the sprouting, or indication of life, hope, promise, amongst the Jews.
R5503:2, 4788:5
Looking forward to the re-establishment of the Jewish nation. R4788:5
The winter time, the blight time of the nation is at an end. R5503:2
We see the Jews looking back to Jerusalem. Thus the fig tree is putting
forth its leaves, or giving signs of life, looking forward to
the re-establishment of the Jewish nation. R4788:5, 5920:6; D604
Summer is near -- The Jewish nation has been having a long winter time,
but the spring time of this nation is now at hand. R5920:6
The Hebrews divided their year into two seasons, summer and winter. D602
Mark 13:29
That it is nigh -- The kingdom of God. (Luke 17:21) D602
Mark 13:30
This generation -- Greek, genea, not used with the significance of race,
but in reference to people living contemporaneously who will witness the
signs enumerated. D603
A "generation" might be reckoned as a century, the present limit, or 120
years, Moses' lifetime, the Scripture limit. D604
Might be reckoned as equivalent to a century from 1780, the date of the
first sign. By 1880 every item predicted had begun to be fulfilled. D604
It would not be inconsistent to reckon the generation from 1878 to 1914,
36-1/2 years, about the average of human life today. D605
These things be done -- We are not looking for things to come which are
already here, but are waiting for the consummation of matters already in
progress. D605
Mark 13:31
Heaven and earth -- The present ecclesiastical and social order. D602
Mark 13:32
That hour -- When the heavenly Kingdom should be set up. E36
Of his second coming. R5943:5
Knoweth no man -- It was not then due to be revealed; does not prove we
cannot know now. B18; D605; R1873:3
Our Lord gave quite a detailed account of events which must intervene,
indicating a lapse of a considerable period between, yet giving no clear
idea of its length. B160
These words cannot be understood to mean that none but the Father will
ever know of his times and seasons. B18
The time was unknown then and was to so continue until God's due time for
making it known. R1873:3
"The wise shall understand." (Dan. 12:10) D606; B19; R2972:6; OV268:3
Neither the Son -- It does not say the Son never will know. B18; D605;
R2972:6, 1796:3
Times and seasons for the full accomplishment of the restitution of all
things were wisely hidden from his view, as they were also wisely hidden
from the Church's view until the realization of it was near at hand.
R1688:2
The Son certainly must know of the time of his own second advent, at least
a little while before it takes place. R2972:6, 1873:3, 1796:3; D605
He does not so answer in Acts 1:6-8. We must suppose that then he did
know, because he was then "born of the Spirit" with "all power" including
the power of knowledge. R2082:5, 1796:5
Jesus proved himself worthy to "loose the seals." (Rev. 5:2, 12) of the
scroll of God's plan. R5943:5,4
The revelation of the plan to him was a gradual one as features became
due. R3160:3
The things that were sealed on the inside of the scroll of Rev. 5 were not
proper to be understood by our Redeemer until he had received all-power,
after his resurrection. R5943:6, 2156:2
Mark 13:33
Take ye heed -- The times and seasons will be very important some time,
so do not become indifferent. B19
None then living shall escape the great time of trouble except the Little
Flock, the Bride class. R2302:5
Watch and pray -- Watching unto prayer, thus keeping their hearts in a
humble and teachable attitude. R1797:1
Be always watching for the first evidence of my parousia. B163
Watch yourselves and also the word of prophecy. B22
With the Word of God in heart and mind, and the spirit of truth in
yourself. B23
That in due time ye may know. D606; B19
"Watch ye, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape." (Luke 21:36)
R2302:5; B23; D606
For ye know not -- Because the time was long according to human
reckoning, and a knowledge of it would therefore have been discouraging.
R1796:3
Although it was neither proper nor possible for the Lord's people to know
in advance the exact time of the second presence, yet when the due time
would come, the faithful ones, the watchers, would be informed. R2972:3
The time of the Lord's presence could not be known beforehand, even by the
saints; nor was the fact of the Lord's presence recognized until nearly a
year after October 1874. D612
Such a state must continue until the proximity of the event renders the
knowledge of the time no longer a cause of discouragement, but of the
revival of hope and anticipation. R1796:5
Mark 13:34
A far journey -- Even to heaven itself, not to return until the time for
his kingdom to be established in glory and power. R2634:2
Every man his work -- Each should seek to know his talents and to use
them, and should not attempt the use of talents not given him, and a work
therefore not committed to him. R2527:1
In the Church. R2527:1
As illustrated by those who built with Nehemiah. R2526:6
As Nehemiah's plan was that each person should undertake the building of
the wall nearest to his own residence. R2527:1
Mark 13:35
Watch -- The signs of the times in light of God's Word, for the second
advent of the Lord, the establishment of the kingdom, and the
transformation of the Church to the divine likeness. R2973:3, 1796:3
Our watching is to be for the second coming of him who redeemed us. R2973:1
Watch intently, earnestly, interestedly, because we know of the good
things God has in reservation. (1 Cor. 2:9-13; 1 Pet. 1:4) R2973:5
Watching implies hoping, and it also implies waiting. R2973:2
Watch, because ye know not, in order that, at the proper time, ye may
know. R2972:2; D606
We are to watch the signs of the times in the light of the Lord's Word,
our lamp. R2973:3
The watchers look not merely at the outward signs, as seen in the world.
They scrutinize carefully and repeatedly their "chart," the Bible's
prophetic outline of the world's history furnished by the King himself.
R2973:6
The watchers are those who are in harmony with the King and who have
respect to his promise, and they, therefore, do not neglect the words
which he speaks. R2974:1
Implies not only some advantage in watching, but that the manner of the
second advent will require some discernment. R1796:5
This watching will serve as an antidote to worldly influence. R2303:1
Therefore -- Implies that the manner of the second advent might be
contrary to general expectation. R1796:5
Cometh -- This cannot refer to our Lord coming at death, as often
taught, because death is an enemy. R2303:1
Mark 13:37
I say unto all -- Unto all believers. R2972:5

The whole Church to the end of the age. R1796:2
Mark 14
Mark 14:1
After two days -- One of the two days before the Passover, beginning on
Wednesday night, 13th Nisan. R4212:2*
The feast of the passover -- Lasted a week, and was one of the most
important celebrated under the Jewish arrangement. R3363:3
The chief priests -- The great religious teachers felt themselves
sponsors for the people. They perceived that their hold over the more
ignorant Jews was being impaired by Jesus' teachings. R5540:6
By craft -- It was merely a question of how they could accomplish the
murder and deceive the people, so as not to provoke those who had begun to
exercise faith in Jesus. R5541:1
Put him to death -- They seem to have been unanimous in believing that
his destruction would be for the good of the Lord's cause, as they
misunderstood that cause. R5540:6
Not on the feast day -- For he would be surrounded by the multitude,
some of whom thought him to be a great prophet, others of whom considered
him to be the Messiah. R5541:1
Mark 14:2
Lest there by an uproar -- It was anticipated the friends of Jesus might

arouse a commotion amongst the throng which might make the religious
leaders of the Jews appear to be seditious. R3366:3
Mark 14:3
In Bethany -- The honored guests of Lazarus, whom Jesus awakened.

R5541:1, 3534:2, 2447:3
At the close of the Jewish Sabbath Day just preceding our Lord's
Sunday night, 10th Nisan. R4212:2*
Possibly the sixth day previous to the Passover, the Sabbath. R2447:3,
3534:2
Simon the leper -- Who probably was dead. R5541:1
Possibly the father of the family, or the late husband of Martha. R3534:2,
2447:3
At meat -- A feast or banquet in our Lord's honor. R2448:1, 3534:3
Martha, Mary and Lazarus were the hostesses. R5541:2
A woman -- Mary, sister of Martha and Lazarus. R3877:2
Alabaster box -- Apparently a small vase. R5230:5, 2448:1
"Do not keep the alabaster boxes of your love and tenderness sealed up
until your friends are dead, but fill their lives with sweetness."--A
Boston printer. R5541:5
Ointment of spikenard -- Not oil, but very expensive perfume. R5230:5,
3535:1, 2448:1
A beautiful picture of love and devotion, illustrating the manner in which
we can pour perfume on each other, by speaking graciously to each other
and by seeking to see the best that there is in one another. R5231:4
Very precious -- Equivalent to a year's wages of a working man. R3535:1,
5541:4, 2448:2
Considered in the light of the odor and blessing it has shed upon all of
the Lord's people, Mary's alabaster jar of precious perfume, very costly,
has proven to be extremely cheap. R3535:3
Brake the box -- Opened the box's tyings and seals. R2448:2
Probably uncorked it. R5230:5
And poured it -- The reverence which she felt for Jehovah, she sought to
express toward his highest representative, Jesus, who had brought her
brother back from the tomb. R5541:4
We can pour perfume on each other by speaking graciously to each other,
and by seeking to see the best in one another. (Eph. 5:1, 2) R5231:4
We can anoint friends, brethren and others with kindly words, loving
sympathies, tender expressions. R3878:1
As we do this, the Lord will allow some one to scatter some flowers also
for us. R3878:2
"An offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savor." (Eph.
5:2) R5231:4
While Jesus was still alive. A week later and it would have been too late.
R3536:5
Do not keep the alabaster boxes of your love and tenderness sealed up
until your friends are dead. Flowers on the coffin cast no fragrance
backward over the weary way. R3878:3*, 3536:6
On his head -- According to another account, she subsequently poured a
portion of the same perfume upon his feet. R5541:2
Manifesting her adoration, reverence and devotion to him as her Lord, the
Messiah. R5230:5
Expressing the reverence which she felt for Jehovah she sought to express
toward his highest representative, Jesus. R5541:4
The perfume of Mary's acts of love, kindness, and adoration have come down
through the ages, filling the entire Church with the sweet odor. R3877:4,
2448:5
She pleased the Lord, and illustrated the noblest and truest qualities of
the feminine heart. R3877:4
Although our Head has been glorified, we may anoint his "feet" who are
still with us. R3878:5, 3536:2
Mark 14:4
There were some -- John tells us that the leader of the murmurers was
Judas. R5541:2
This waste -- Such ointments were much more expensive at that time than
now. R5230:5, 5541:4
Mark 14:5
Might have been sold -- Mary may have prepared the perfume herself, for
Judas does not object to its having been purchased for a large sum, but that
it might have been sold for 300 pence. R2744:1
Three hundred pence -- Greek, denarius, silver penny, the average daily
wage at that time. (Matt. 20:2) R2448:2, 5541:4, 3535:1, 2744:1
About six dollars, representing the labor of a year. R5541:4
About $48. R2744:1, 3877:2
The joy, the comfort, the blessing that came to the heart of our dear
Master, and that strengthened him for the experiences of coming days, was
worth far more than the 300 pence. R3878:3
Given to the poor -- It is a mistake to suppose that time or money spent
in the Lord's service or in the study of his plan means that much less for
the poor. R3877:5
And they murmured -- John tells us the leader in this was Judas. (John
12:14) R5541:2, 3535:3, 2448:3
Considered in the light of the odor and blessing and refreshment which it
has shed upon all the Lord's people throughout this Gospel age, Mary's
alabaster jar of perfume, very costly, has proven to be extremely cheap.
R3535:3
Mark 14:6
Let her alone -- A severe reproof to those whose sentiments of love had
no other measure than that of money. Money is not the only thing of which
people are sorely in need. R2448:3
Mark 14:7
The poor -- Generally they are the class most ready to receive the
truth. R1104:3
Poverty has proven a blessing by developing sympathy, patience, love,
goodness, helpfulness, toward those who need our care and assistance.
R3535:6
With you always -- Throughout this Gospel age. R3535:6, 4702:6
Have not always -- A little while he would be glorified. R3536:1, 4702:6
Mark 14:8
She hath done -- Though the Lord declined to recognize a woman as a

teacher of religion, his special love for this Mary and her sister Martha
is particularly recorded. R4702:3,5
She did what pleased the Lord; she illustrated the noblest and truest
qualities of the feminine heart, love, devotion, fidelity, she spoke by
actions rather than by words, and the perfume of her acts of love and
kindness and adoration of her Lord have come down through the ages,
filling the entire Church of Christ with the sweet odor of the perfume she
poured upon his head and subsequently upon his feet. R3877:4
What she could -- She has shown her devotion to the best of her ability.
R3535:2
No one could have a higher tribute. She cannot do more, she has done all
she could. R5230:6
This expression of Jesus should be of special comfort, particularly to the
sisters in the Church. Not discouraged by her limitations, Mary was on the
alert to improve all the opportunities that she had. R5230:2, 4702:3
Let us all make sure the Master can say of us as he said of her. R2512:6
The Lord accepts the little sacrifices as though they were greater ones.
It is not the amount that God is seeking, but the character, the
disposition of heart. R2717:4
To anoint my body -- We may suppose these would seem very strange words.
The disciples thought he would not die. R5230:6
The "feet" members of the Body of Christ are still with us; let us hasten
to anoint them with the precious spikenard perfume. R3878:5
Mark 14:9
A memorial of her -- Not merely to honor her, but to inspire and

encourage others of God's people to the obtaining and exercising of a love
which delights in service, yea in costly sacrifice. R5541:4
What a sweet memorial of Mary! How we all love and reverence her true
womanhood, and appreciate the fact that her intuitions in respect to this
anointing of the Lord were superior to the reasonings of the twelve
apostles on the subject--they were too cold and calculating, too business
like. She made up for this deficiency in the warmth of her loving
devotion. R3877:5
The Mary class is still with us. R3536:2
The person who is economical and penurious in his dealings with the Lord
is sure to be the loser thereby. "The liberal soul shall be made fat."
(Prov. 11:25) R3535:4
Mark 14:10
Judas Iscariot -- What a sharp contrast between the love and generosity
of Mary and the mean selfishness of Judas! R3878:4
Representing some who for earthly advantage for themselves are willing to
deliver other members of the Lord's Body up to tribulation, adversity and
reproach. R3366:6
There are some amongst the Lord's professed disciples who commit a similar
crime, willing to sell the Lord for social position, honor, popularity,
titles, by misrepresenting his character, plan and Word. R4907:4, 3366:6
To betray him -- Perhaps surmising Jesus could deliver himself, possibly
thinking to gain the money without our Lord being injured; but, in any
event, showing a baseness of character and willingness to do evil for
selfish reasons. R3366:6
Perhaps he reasoned that since all these things would happen to the Lord
anyway, he might as well have the money. R3878:6
Mark 14:11
To give him the money -- Some today are willing to sell the truth for
financial profit or social advantage, and others willing to sell the
members of the Lord's Body. R3366:6
Conveniently betray him -- Suggesting that he would be in touch with
Jesus' movements and could inform them of the most suitable time, a time
when the multitude would not be with him. R5541:1
Mark 14:12
The first day of -- The 14th of Nisan, the Feast of Passover beginning
on the 15th. R1800:2
Unleavened bread -- A reminder of their haste in fleeing Egypt, not
having time for bread to rise, and their suffering in Egypt, called the
bread of affliction. (Deut. 16:3) R1800:2
Its chief significance was the putting away of sin. R1800:2
A type of the world's proper condition in the Millennial age--the putting
away from them the leaven of sin. R1800:3
Killed the passover -- Typified Jesus, the Lamb of God. R5542:3
The killing of the Passover lamb was always done on the 14th of Nisan; so
also the sacrifice of Christ was accomplished on this same day, thus
fulfilling the prediction of the type. R1800:3
"Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us." (1 Cor. 5:7) R3749:3
Mark 14:13
He sendeth forth -- Thursday, daytime, 13th Nisan. R4212:2*

Evidently Jesus was at Bethany, at the home of Lazarus, when he sent this
word. R5541:3
Two of his disciples -- Peter and John. R5541:3
Mark 14:14
The goodman -- Probably a believer. R1800:3

It has been surmised by some that the house was that of Mark's mother,
Mary, and that the upper room thus used was the same one in which the
apostles subsequently met and where the Pentecostal blessing was poured
out upon them. R3363:6
The guestchamber -- During passover week hospitality was recognized as a
duty in Jerusalem, hence the readiness with which the Lord's request for a
room was granted. R1800:3
Mark 14:15
A large upper room -- Supposed to be the same one in which the disciples
were gathered on Pentecost. R5541:3
We do know that it was at the house of this Mary that many gathered to
pray for the release of Peter from prison. It was "a large upper room" and
was already prepared with a suitable dining couch of proper dimensions.
R3363:6
The early Church meeting places were usually private dwellings or rented
upper rooms. R984:2
Mark 14:16
They made ready -- We may be sure everything was in exact conformity

with the original requirements. Jesus and his apostles were bound by every
feature of the Jewish Law as much as other Jews. R5541:6
Mark 14:17
In the evening -- Thursday, 14th Nisan. R4212:2*
Mark 14:18
Which eateth with me -- As my guest, a member of my family. R5542:1

Shall betray me -- Said with a double object--to show his disciples he
was aware of the betrayal and as a final reproof to Judas, to startle and
to cause him to think. R5542:2
Mark 14:19
One by one -- The import would be, It is not I whom you have meant!
R5542:2
Even Judas joined in the general inquiry, "Is it I?" R5542:2, 3364:3
Not overconfident, but each seeming to fear his own stability. They had
the spirit of self- examination. R1800:5
Mark 14:20
One of the twelve -- Judas was probably present at the Passover Supper
partly for the purpose of learning the direction which Jesus and the
others would take after the supper. R3366:3
Despite the custom of the time, to be loyal and faithful to the one whose
bread he ate. R3879:3
Dippeth with me -- Unleavened bread, resembling thick pancakes, was
sometimes used instead of a spoon to sop up the essence of the meat.
R5542:1
Mark 14:21
Woe to that man -- Judas' intimate acquaintance with the Lord made him
specially responsible. NS603:6
Judas had a sufficiency of light to condemn him so he would have no
further opportunity and hope. R5453:1
Let us beware of the little things which, like a switch upon a railway,
turn a train into an entirely different track, and may lead us off far
from the goal we at first desired to reach. R3367:1
Had never been born -- Evidently his was the sin unto death--the joys of
his useless, wasted life did not overbalance its sorrows and anguish and
his subsequent despair and suicide. R3879:4
Being unmoved by our Lord's words is strong evidence of the willful
intention which marked Judas' crime. R4906:6
Leaves no ray of hope for his restoration. R1800:6
One of the most detestable characters known to the pages of history.
R4909:5
Every suicide by his act confesses his wish that he had never been born.
R3364:3
Mark 14:22
As they did eat -- It is entirely probable that Judas was not present
when Jesus, a little later, instituted the Memorial Supper which
Christians now celebrate. R5542:2
Christ's death should not be celebrated monthly, quarterly or weekly, but,
as the archtype of the Jewish Passover, should properly be celebrated
annually. R5542:3
Jesus took bread -- Some of the left-over unleavened bread. R3526:3
In the Passover a literal lamb was used to typify Jesus, but now the
breaking of bread represented the death of Jesus. R5542:3
The unleavened bread memorializes the purity, the sinlessness, of him who
gave himself to be the ransom-price for all. R4591:2, 2772:3
"I am the bread of life." (John 6:35) R2772:3
"For we being many are one bread, and one body." (1 Cor. 10:17) R5542:5
And brake it -- Represented the death of Jesus. R5542:3
Represented the sacrifice of Christ's humanity for our redemption. R1800:6
It must be "broken" in order to be appropriated; it was also necessary
that he be broken in death, sacrificed for our sins, ere we could
appropriate his merit and enjoy everlasting life. R3526:4
When we break this Bread together as a Memorial, we not only symbolize our
Lord's broken body, but also our own breaking or dying as members of the
Church. R4591:5
Take, eat -- Symbolically represents our partaking of the fleshly
perfection of the man Jesus. R4591:3
The appropriation to ourselves, by faith, of justification to human
life-right. R5871:1, 1800:6
The rights and privileges which Christ surrendered may be appropriated by
all who accept him. R3879:6
This is my body -- Not that the bread was turned into his actual body
and the wine into his actual blood, for he still had his actual body and
blood; but that they symbolically represented his body and blood. R5542:3,
3526:4
This represents me, the antitypical Lamb; it represents my flesh. F464;
R5870:5
A figure of speech. He would not have meant as some believe that the bread
turned into his actual flesh, for he still had his flesh. R3879:5, 5870:5
The broken bread represented the sacrifice of Christ's humanity for our
redemption. R1800:6
To call their minds from the typical lamb to himself, the antitype, and to
show them that it would be no longer proper to observe a feature of the
Law which he was about to fulfill. R4839:4, 466:1
Mark 14:23
He took the cup -- Symbolical and pointed forward to his own death.
R4331:3
Representing crushing of the grapes, the blood of the grapes, the Master's
blood, the life sacrificed, poured out, and their lives with him. R3880:3,
4591:5
We not only need nourishment to come back to God and his favor, but we
need the precious blood to release us from the condemnation of justice.
R3526:5
They all drank of it -- Having the same significance of the broken
bread. Partaking in it also meant the appropriation of the benefits of his
sacrifice, thus securing our justification. R1800:6
It was Jesus' cup, of which he drank, that he gave to his disciples to
finish. Thus, symbolically, we are invited to be partakers of the
sufferings of Christ. (2 Cor. 1:5-7) R4475:1
All who would sit with him in his throne must drink of his cup of
self-denial, self-sacrifice. R4591:5
All partook with him his cup of suffering and death. R3880:2
Meaning our appropriation of the benefits of his sacrifice, thus securing
our justification. R1800:6
Mark 14:24
This is my blood of -- The blood prepared in advance of the covenant,

wherewith to seal it and make it obligatory. R4331:3, 5542:5; E28 The new
testament -- A covenant of mercy. R2859:3
Before our Lord could become the Mediator he must seal the New Covenant
with his own precious blood. E28
Jesus' death constituted the blood which seals, makes efficacious, the New
Covenant. But the Church is blessed in advance of that New Covenant, and
their blood is counted as part of the sacrifice which seals that covenant.
R5542:5
The New Covenant will not become operative until the cup of the Lord's
sufferings which is left behind has been drained in death by the last
member of his Body. R5542:6, 4310:2,3
The New Law Covenant will be inaugurated by Messiah, its Mediator, at his
Our Lord has not yet already sealed the New Covenant with his blood. Q179:4
Which is shed -- "To give his life a ransom (the redemptive price) for
many." (Matt. 20:28) R1336:1
Plainly presenting Christ's death as the means through which he gained
ability to benefit many. R1335:6*
For many -- The world in general. R111:2
Mark 14:25
Drink no more -- His work, his drinking of the cup, was finished the
next day on Calvary. There he completed the drinking of the cup which the
Father had poured for him. R5542:6
Fruit of the vine -- If anybody prefers to think of it as being grape
juice, I have no objection. Q486:4
Not literal wine, but the new thing typified by it. R3365:1
I drink it new -- The new wine--the joys, rights and privileges of the
divine nature--in that kingdom. R721:2
Having a new and blessed significance, being commemorative of the heroism
of their faith under the most crucial tests, and a rejoicing together in
the victory of that faith. R1801:1
All who would drink of the present cup of suffering, ignominy and death
would also share in his cup of joy and blessing, glory and honor in the
kingdom. R3880:3, 3365:1
Foretells the final triumph of Christ and the Church. R1801:1
The kingdom of God -- At our Lord's second advent. R3880:3
Mark 14:26
They went out -- Let us do the same. Let each go home with heart full,
prolonging our communion and fellowship with the Master. R5195:2
The mount of Olives -- A distance of perhaps a mile. R5550:2
There is a small enclosure now on the side of Mt. Olivet, about 150 feet
square, which is reputed to be the place of our Lord's agonizing prayer.
It contains eight very old and very gnarled olive trees, and whether the
exact spot or not, it represents it sufficiently well. R2773:6
Mark 14:27
Ye shall be offended -- Discouraged, stumbled, amazed; the thing they

were not expecting would occur. R5550:3
Sheep shall be scattered -- Knowing how desolate, aimless and perplexed
they would feel, it would be his chief concern in the 40 days between his
resurrection and ascension to gather them again and re-establish their
faith in him as the Messiah. B111
The Lord willed that severe testings should come to the sheep through the
Master. R4488:2
Mark 14:29
Yet will not I -- Peter's courage, manifested on so many occasions, was

really his weak point. R5563:1
He was trusting too much to his flesh, and not looking to God and
prayerfully watching against temptation. R5550:3
Perhaps it was remembering these words that he drew his sword in the
Lord's defense. (John 18:10) R2468:6
Mark 14:30
Thou shalt deny me -- Peter was trusting too much to his flesh, and not
looking to God and prayerfully watching against temptation. R5550:3
As our Lord forewarned Peter of coming trials, so he has forewarned us of
the great crucial test near at hand. R5550:6
Siftings are permitted, not because the Lord has no interest in us, but
because only those who can stand siftings, trials and tests, are fit for
places in the kingdom. R5563:6
Perhaps the Lord allowed this for our sakes, that we might realize we need
to put our confidence in the Lord. CR307:5; R5550:3
Mark 14:31
I will not deny thee -- Peter realized no dread, no fear. Hence he did
little watching and praying in comparison with what he should have done,
and self-confidence led to his undoing for a time. R5563:1
Said they all -- They declared themselves loyal and ready for death. How
little they knew what severe trials would come upon them. R5550:3
The mistake many make is not realizing how severe the trials and
temptations may become, in not realizing the necessity of heavenly
assistance in every time of need. R5550:5
Mark 14:32
Gethsemane -- An olive orchard or garden. R5550:2

Signifying an oil-press place. Jews used olive oil for food and light.
Jesus is the nourisher, as well as the enlightener, of the world. He
almost crushed his soul in a garden used for the crushing of olives.
R5550:2, 2773:3
Doubtless in the end of this age there will come Gethsemane experiences to
the Church. R5550:5
To his disciples -- Because he loved them, and knew that they loved him,
he permitted them to watch and pray with him. R1801:2
Sit ye here -- To watch, to be on guard against something that was to
occur. R5550:6, 2773:6
I shall pray -- That he might find grace to help in time of need. R1801:1
Having first comforted, counselled and prayed for and with his disciples.
R1801:1
Mark 14:33
Peter and James and John -- As a sort of outer guard--the three in whom
he found the most active and consoling sympathy. R1801:2, 2773:6
The three most courageous, zealous and earnest of his disciples. R2774:1
To be sore amazed -- As though the sorrow had come upon him
unexpectedly. R2774:1
To be very heavy -- Carrying the thought of loneliness, home-sickness,
friendlessness. R5551:1
Because of the coming shame of trial, conviction, and execution as a
blasphemer and seditionist. The perfect man must have suffered far more
than would have been possible for a fallen one. R3885:3, 3367:2
Overwhelmed with the fear that in some manner he might have failed of
perfection, and that his death might mean extinction. R3886:1, 5551:5
The Master's personal eternal life was in the balance. R5551:4
No one can thoughtfully read this lesson without feeling there is
something thoroughly incorrect in the idea that Jesus was his own Heavenly
Father. R2773:3
Mark 14:34
Exceeding sorrowful -- The thought of extinguishment of life was an

important factor in his sorrow. R4804:2
Death to him was very different from what it is to us who are nine-tenths
dead, with benumbed sensibilities. R3885:6
An intense mental and nervous strain; an agony which would have worn him
out shortly, which caused him to sweat great drops of blood. R1801:2,
3367:3
Fearful lest he might have violated the Law, made some mistake and not
come up to the requirements of the Father. R5331:4, 5551:3, 3367:2
Unto death -- I feel as if I would die now, without coming to that great
crisis which is before me. R5551:1
The death of Jesus began at Jordan; it culminated and was finished at
Calvary. R5104:2
Paul assures us that the Master's Gethsemane experiences were linked with
fear--not fear of dying, but fear of remaining dead. (Heb. 5:7) R5551:5
Mark 14:35
He went forward a little -- To be alone in his communion with the

Father. R5550:6
And prayed -- "Unto him that was able to save him from (out of) death
(by resurrection)." (Heb. 5:7) R5551:5, 3885:6, 3367:3
Mark 14:36
All things are possible -- If it were possible for the divine plan to be
otherwise worked out, he might be saved from the special tribulations of
the hours just before him. R5551:4
The substance of all is that our Lord was exceeding fearful of
himself--fearful lest he should make a misstep and thus spoil the entire
plan of God, which he had so obediently undertaken and thus so loyally
performed. R3886:2
Take away this cup -- In the matter of his baptism into death, there was
no hesitation. The ignominious death was the thing he prayed might pass.
R5421:2,3,6, 5551:5, 3886:2, 3367:2
Jesus was to drink the cup which belonged to the sinner in order that he
might redeem man. R5421:6
It was necessary he suffer the death of the cross in order he might redeem
the Jew. R5421:6, 5126:4, 5047:4,5, 3901:4; E430
The same cup represented in the communion service. R5421:3
The shame and reproach of being executed as a blasphemer against God and
an injurious person amongst men. R3367:2
Not that he might not die, for he had come into the world for that
purpose; but that the Father might have some way of passing by the special
ignominy of that hour. R5551:5
He comprehended, as others had not comprehended, what death really is. He
appreciated, as others did not appreciate, the meaning and value of life.
R5551:2
The question was, had he done the divine will fully, in a spirit pleasing
to the Heavenly Father; and would he pass through the experience of the
next few hours with proper obedience, or fail and lose his all in death?
R5551:6, 5331:4
Had the Master failed, there was no one to make good for him. His failure
meant everlasting death. R5551:4
Drinking of the cup by the Church represents, not only justification, but
sanctification. R5421:5
How different with us who seek to walk in his steps, we have nothing to
lose, for as a race we are all under the sentence of death. R5551:3
Not what I will -- As a man. T54
But what thou wilt -- As the Father--the divine. T54
He learned the Father's will for him, and he was content. R5421:2
Mark 14:37
And he cometh -- Seeking human sympathy. R5550:6

Findeth them sleeping -- It was midnight and they were accustomed to
retiring early. R5550:6
The strain of the evening and the weighty lessons which the Master had
imparted reacted in drowsiness. R5550:6
Well it had been expressed by the prophet, "Of the people there was none
with me." (Isa. 63:3) He trod the winepress of grief alone. R5550:6
A great difference between the Master and his followers: the Master is
with us, "I will never leave thee nor forsake thee," and there is also a
fellowship of spirit amongst the brethren of Christ. R5551:6
Sleepest thou -- Not begotten of the holy Spirit, they could not
therefore so fully watch with the Lord and pray with him as if they had
been spiritually enlightened. R5331:1
Couldest not thou watch -- Gently he reproved them. R4804:5, 2774:4 They
were not without loyalty; it was not a matter of indifference to them, but
they did not comprehend. R5331:1
One hour -- Little did they realize that at that critical hour their own
and the whole world's salvation hung upon the shoulders of their
trembling, suffering Lord. It was the dark hour of the world's crisis.
(John 12:31) R669:2
Mark 14:38
Watch ye -- Be watchful, active, alert, and co-labor with God and with
the Lord Jesus Christ. R5332:1
Addressed, with much force, to the eleven; and more particularly to the
three whom he had called apart to be a little nearer to him. R5331:1 Not
merely on my account, you need to be in a watching attitude on your own
account. An hour of severe trial is upon us all. R2774:4
Watch and be on guard against the encroachments of the world, flesh, and
devil; watch for all the encouragements of the Lord's Word; watch for
everything that will strengthen us in faith, loyalty, hope and love.
R2775:5
Some will make light of the warning and expose themselves to danger;
others will hearken, resulting in their preservation. R3761:4
There seems to be special need of this at the Passover season. R3178:3
See 13:33,35.
And pray -- For wisdom and grace. R5331:5
Our Lord watched and prayed, got a blessing and came off victor; they did
not watch or pray, and as a result we find them scattered and bewildered.
R2775:2
Some make the mistake of praying without watching; others make the mistake
of watching without praying. R2775:5
Pray together as the Lord's people; pray in our homes, as families; pray
in secret, in private; have the spirit of prayer in all that we say and
do. R2775:5
In harmony with our intelligence--our knowledge of the divine plan. R5332:4
Lest ye enter -- Lest they should fall in their temptations. R5331:5,
5312:5
Lest ye fall in this evil time. R2774:5
Those who neglect the Master's words will be sure to enter into
temptation, and be tolerably sure to fall therein. R2775:5
They would have fallen into temptation the same, but they would not have
entered into it. R5331:5
That we may be shielded from temptation that without his aid would be
beyond our endurance, and that he will, in his own due time deliver us
from evil and imperfection and grant us a place in his heavenly kingdom.
R5835:5
The devil is seeking whom he any devour. He knows our weak points and is
ready to take advantage of them. R3179:4
Into temptation -- In this hour of trial which is upon us all. R2774:5
It was the most trying time for our Lord, for the apostles, and
particularly for Judas and Peter. R3759:3
Now is the time for the Church to be specially on the alert against the
wiles of the world, the flesh and the Adversary. R5331:6
We may not clearly discern in advance the character of the temptations,
for if we knew all about them beforehand, they would be but slight
temptations and easily overcome. R5332:4, 3179:1
A temptation resisted makes us so much the stronger to resist the next.
R5331:5
The flesh is weak -- Notice his kind consideration for the bewildered
and weary disciples, and his loving excuse for them. R1801:6
Mark 14:40
When he returned -- It was no sign of weakness that he thus craved human

sympathy. R801:2
Asleep again -- Instead of watching and praying, therefore the less
prepared for the trial hour coming on. R3367:5
Mark 14:41
Sleep on now -- "Of the people there was none with me." (Isa. 63:3) He
trod the winepress of grief alone. R5550:6
An angel appeared and strengthened him with the assurance that he had been
faithful to that moment, and that divine blessing would be with him in the
trial at hand. From that moment onward, all fear and agony were gone.
R5551:6, 5331:4
It is enough -- Assured of the Father's favor, he could pass through any
experience; he had gotten the victory. R5331:4
Mark 14:43
Cometh Judas -- The Judas class of today are those who receive
temptation, enter into the spirit of the allurement, and are swallowed up
by it. R3760:1
A great multitude -- The high priests' servants, court followers,
resembling the police of today. R3367:4
An impromptu sheriff's posse. R3887:2
Staves -- Clubs. R3367:4
Mark 14:45
And kissed him -- The Greek indicates he kissed him repeatedly. R3887:2
Mark 14:46
And took him -- The binding of our Lord seems to have been entirely
unnecessary, except as the "band" might desire to make an exhibition of
their prowess to those who had sent them. R2469:4
Mark 14:47
And one of them -- Peter. (John 18:10) R3887:6, 3367:4

Drew a sword -- They had the swords to demonstrate that our Lord was not
taken contrary to his own will. R3367:4
To defend the Lord. R3886:6
The only sword which the Lord's people now may use is the sword of the
Spirit, the Word of God. R3888:1
Mark 14:48
Are ye come -- The Lord seems to have remonstrated his binding. (John
18:12) R2469:4
Mark 14:50
All forsook him, and fled -- Awakened, surprised, dismissed by the Lord.
R3367:4
Our Lord, in surrendering himself, stipulated that his apostles were not
included in the arrest. R3367:4
Our Lord had said, "let these go their way." (John 18:8) R3888:1
They were disconcerted by the Master's arrest and his evident willingness
to be arrested. R4756:2
The temptation, the fear they could not resist. R3178:6
It is appropriate that the Body of Christ should, at the Memorial season,
have special trials, peculiar difficulties, testings of faith, obedience
and loyalty. R4756:2, 3178:3
Mark 14:51
A certain young man -- There is some evidence that John Mark, the writer
of this Gospel, was the lad, awakened by the commotion of Jesus' arrest,
who came forth in his nightgown. R5550:3, 4707:2, 4347:2, 4169:1
Mark 14:53
To the high priest -- Caiaphas, evidently the ringleader in the

conspiracy against Jesus. We may presume it was by his orders our Lord was
taken first to Annas (John 18:13-24), his father-in-law. R2780:6
First to Annas (John 18:13), the rightful high priest according to the
Law, the office being for life. His son-in-law, Caiaphas, was the acting
high priest, appointed by the Romans. R1809:2
Were assembled -- It was not lawful to try any man for a capital offense
between sundown and sunrise. Hence this trial was an informal one. It must
be ratified by the Sanhedrin after sunrise. R3367:5, 1809:3
All the chief priests -- Carefully excluding, evidently, a few such men
as Joseph of Arimathea, Nicodemus, and probably a few others
known to be favorably inclined toward the new teacher. R1809:2
Mark 14:54
Into the palace -- Peter and John went with the crowd into Pilate's
court to see what would befall the Master. R3178:6
Mark 14:56
Bare false witness against him -- Who would misrepresent him, his
teachings, etc., either ignorantly through misunderstanding him or
designedly with a view to gaining favor with the offices of the court.
R3888:3
Witness agreed not together -- Two witnesses who agreed were required by
law. (Deut. 19:15) R1809:3
The Jewish Law required at least two witnesses in any such trial. R2781:2
Mark 14:58
Destroy this temple -- Misunderstood or deliberately falsified--he had

said that if they destroyed the Temple it would be reared again within
three days (antitypical). R3370:5
The true Church. R3080:6, 3081:1; T70
Within three days -- The last of the fifth, all of the sixth, and the
early part of the seventh thousand-year day. R3375:2, 3080:6
Mark 14:61
He held his peace -- Knowing that the truth was not desired and would
avail nothing. R1809:5
Had the witnesses repeated his words exactly there was nothing in them
upon which any law would condemn him. R3888:4
The High Priest, however, realized that he had utterly failed of getting
any testimony against the Lord. R3888:4
And answered nothing -- Knowing that the truth was not desired and would
avail nothing with these men who so warmly cherished murder in their
hearts. R1809:5
The Christ, the Son -- The charge against our Lord was based upon his
claim of being a Son of God--not the Father himself. R2781:5
Mark 14:62
I am -- The Messiah, the Son of God. R2781:3

He deliberately answered "I am," knowing that his reply would be like the
signing of his death warrant. R1809:5
Right hand of power -- This prophecy compassed the certainty of his
death and resurrection. R1809:5
Signifying the chief place, the position of excellence or favor. He will
be on the right hand when coming, and remain on the right hand forever.
R532:1, 4:5
The power and glory of his kingdom, which he had previously affirmed was
not to be of this world, or dispensation, but of the world to come,
wherein dwelleth righteousness. R1809:5
"Sit thou on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool."
(Psa. 110:1) A92; R531:6
And coming -- Pointed to his return in the end of the Gospel age. R1809:5
In the clouds -- A time of trouble. R5269:2, 153:1; B138
Represents confusion in general. R5269:5
Mark 14:63
Rent his clothes -- Whose very robes were symbolic of the blessed one in
their midst. R1809:5
In token of astonishment and horror at such blasphemy. R1809:5
Mark 14:64
The blasphemy -- "Blasphemy is to attribute to God that which is

contrary to his nature, and does not belong to him--and to deny what
does." B306
The word is applicable to any indignity offered to God. B306
The Sanhedrin preferred this charge for its effect upon the people. R1809:6
One of the few charges the penalty of which under the Law was death.
R3367:5
Mark 14:65
And some -- For two hours from 3 AM to 5 AM. R2470:5

To spit on him -- "I hid not my face from shame and spitting." (Isa.
50:6) E52
And to buffet him -- The rabble in the Court, hearing the commotion,
felt at liberty to abuse the prisoner, as they had done others. R4711:5
"I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the
hair." (Isa. 50:6) E52
And the servants -- Low minds delight in the misfortunes of those whom
they realize to be their superiors. R2470:5
Did strike him -- Manifesting the same spirit as their masters. Their
methods were ruder because they were more ignorant and coarse. R2470:5
(Heb. 12:3) R2781:6
"He shall see (the fruits) of the travail of his soul (in the grand
restitution of the redeemed race), and shall be satisfied." (Isa. 53:11)
R1360:1; E441, 52
Mark 14:66
In the palace -- John and Peter had now separated. R5563:4
Mark 14:68
But he denied -- Mark's Gospel record is supposed to have been indited

by Peter himself, Mark being in a large measure Peter's amanuensis. R2469:5
The writers of the New Testament were certainly very different from the
majority of writers in that they told the absolute truth without
modification or varnish. R5563:2
In terror. R4488:5
To see his Master apparently without friends in heaven, delivered over to
his enemies and led from one tribunal to the other, has a paralyzing
effect upon St. Peter. R5563:4
Stunned by the identification and wondering to what it might lead. R5563:4
The first instinct of nature, self-preservation overpowered him. He
desired to avoid the troubles that had come upon Jesus. R3367:6
The Master knew the loyalty of Peter's heart, he knew he did it under
stress. R5053:4
The Lord places himself, his brethren and his Word on a par. Those who
deny his truth and his Word of prophecy are denying him. R3368:1
Men who freely tell of their failings must have been men of great courage,
great sincerity, great love for the truth. R5563:3
Judas went down into the second death despised. Peter, after ups and downs
of trial and discipline, passed to a reward of glory, honor and
Into the porch -- Where the shadows were deeper and the people fewer.
R5568:4
Mark 14:71
Began to curse -- This account of cursing, omitted by John, is supposed

to have been indited by Peter himself, Mark being Peter's amanuensis.
R2469:5
In terror. R4488:5
Peter's crime was nothing like that of Judas, he had merely sought to
protect himself, he had not sought to even risk the injury of his Master.
R5563:5
Foreshadowing the testing of the sanctuary class now. C188
I know not this man -- This was prior to his being anointed by the holy
Spirit. F223
This has been a blessing to the Lord's followers, knowing that they, too,
were sometimes overtaken in a fault. R3368:1
Mark 14:72
And Peter -- His crime was nothing like that of Judas; he had merely
sought to protect himself. R5563:5
He wept -- Jesus lifted up his eyes and looked at Peter--a sympathetic
glance, not an angered one--but it went straight to the heart. R5563:5
A great blessing to all the Lord's followers in their weaknesses and
faults. They have learned from Peter to weep bitterly for these
shortcomings. R3368:1
After he had it out with God in tears and prayers, he started again in the
good way. R5331:6
The thoroughness of Peter's repentance is abundantly testified to by his
subsequent loyalty, even unto death. R5563:5
Both Peter and Judas repented; the one who was merely entrapped was
accepted back to divine favor. R3760:1
Tradition relates that ever after Peter arose at cock-crowing, made a
fresh remembrance of his weakness and accepted divine forgiveness. R3368:1
Tradition has it that, remembering how he had denied the Master, felt it
too great an honor to share the same form of death and, at his own
request, was crucified head downward. R5563:5
Mark 15
Mark 15:1
In the morning -- Friday, 14th Nisan. R4212:4*

With sunrise, the Sanhedrin met officially. R3368:1
A consolation -- To ratify the illegal trial of the night previous.
R3367:5, 1809:3
Respecting how they should present the matter before Pilate. R3368:1
The whole council -- To make sure their purpose should be accomplished.
(Luke 23:1) R1809:3
Delivered him -- Israel rejected Jesus in the flesh. R251
Mark 15:2
Art thou -- It is possible that some of the Lord's people may be branded
as blasphemers and hailed before governments on the charges of preaching
Christ as another King. R3369:6
The King of the Jews -- Blasphemy being no crime under Roman law, they
made the charge treason against the Roman government. R3368:1, 1809:6
The Roman governor cared nothing for the Sanhedrin's religious ideas.
R1809:6
Thou sayest it -- Not quite equivalent to yes, yet it intimated that he
did not wish to dispute the charge. R3368:4
Mark 15:3
Accused him -- Before the Sanhedrin, the charge was blasphemy for its
effect upon the people; here an entirely different equally false set of
charges involving treason, more likely to arouse the wrath of the Roman
rulers. R1809:6
Of many things -- Treason against the Roman government; that he declared
that there was another King besides Caesar, namely, himself, the Messiah;
and that he had forbidden to pay taxes to Caesar's government. R3368:2,
1810:1
They evasively answered that of course he was a wicked man, worthy of
punishment; else they would not be there at all accusing him. R5570:2
Mark 15:4
Pilate asked him again -- Not readily accepting the charges of the
Pharisees. He knew them to be hypocritical. R3368:3
Mark 15:5
Yet answered nothing -- "As a sheep before her shearer is dumb." (Isa.
53:7) R3368:4, 1815:6, 1359:5
Pilate marvelled -- That any one could be so indifferent to the results
of his trial. R3368:4
Mark 15:6
He released -- As a matter of clemency and favor. R3368:5
Mark 15:9
Will ye -- His thought evidently was to arouse in them, to some extent,

an enthusiasm in favor of his liberation of Jesus. R3368:5
Release unto you -- Thinking this a favorable opportunity to dispose of
Jesus and get him out of the hands of the chief priests and leaders of the
people. R5571:1
Mark 15:10
For he knew -- Pilate perceived that something in Jesus' teachings

appealed to the people more than did the teachings of these religious
rulers, and that he was being asked to perform a mean and unjust act for
persons who sought to shirk their own responsibility. R5570:3
For envy -- As Joseph, a type of Jesus, was rejected by his brethren for
envy. R3971:3
Mark 15:11
The chief priests -- Annas, the high priest, was subsequently dragged
through the streets, scourged and murdered. R3369:3
Barabbas -- The world's natural choice is for one of murderous spirit
rather than a saint. R3896:2
Religious fanaticism is the deepest, wickedest and most conscienceless of
hatreds. R2313:2
Mark 15:13
They cried out -- At the close of Jesus' ministry only about five
hundred worthy ones had been found. Israel was not ready to be used of God
in the blessing of the other nations. R4593:5
Crucify him -- The most ignominious and cruel method, so that his memory
should ever be covered with infamy. R1810:4
When they rejected the King they rejected the kingdom. R4557:2
Mark 15:14
Then Pilate -- Neither a Jew nor a Christian, but a heathen man.

R3368:2, 3895:6
The persecutions under Pagan Rome were not worthy of comparison with those
under Papal Rome. Under Pagan Rome the charges against Christians were
frequently dismissed with contempt (as Pilate and Herod attempted to do).
B330
Crucify him -- The common people furnished not only multitudes to cry
Hosanna, but also later, multitudes to cry, "Crucify him, crucify him,"
under the influence of their leaders. NS630:3
The voice of the people can be relied upon in some matters, but as
respects religious things the voice of the people is far from being the
voice of God. R3369:5
It must not prejudice our judgments to find the popular voice against us
also. R3369:5
The closing scenes of the Church's experience may resemble that of our
Redeemer, accused of blasphemy and treason. R3369:5
Mark 15:15
And so Pilate -- Shortly afterwards, he lost his commission as governor

and, in despondency, committed suicide. R3369:3
Willing to content -- Influenced more by considerations of policy than
of principle, willing to satisfy the people, yet protesting the innocence
of the prisoner and washing his hands in token of his own innocence.
R1810:4
While recognizing that he failed to take the noble part, we are far from
sharing with the majority in their very ignominious view of this governor.
R3368:2
And delivered Jesus -- Not amenable to our God, for he knew him not; but
merely to Caesar, and Caesar only expected him to preserve the peace and
quiet of the city and maintain the dignity and authority of Rome. R3368:3
Scourged him -- Perhaps hoping that the scourging would satisfy his
adversaries' thirst for blood. R3369:1, 3896:1
"Yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered." (Heb. 5:8) E51
To be crucified -- Our Lord's death was the first in which the victim
was entirely innocent. The only one, therefore, whose dying was wholly
voluntary. R3369:3
Mark 15:17
With purple -- Robed him as a King and had some sport with him. R3369:1
Mark 15:19
They smote him -- It would seem that this would have exhausted the
forces of nature; but our Lord, as a perfect man, had extraordinary powers
of endurance. R1815:3
"I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the
hair." (Isa. 50:6) E52
Similarly, in the end of this age, we may expect that the Body of Christ
will also suffer violence. R5577:5
Did spit upon -- "I hid not my face from shame and spitting." (Isa.
50:6) E52
Mark 15:21
Simon, a Cyrenian -- Tradition has it that the Cyrenian became one of

the followers of the Nazarene, through having the truth of the Savior's
message borne upon his heart by the experiences of that hour. R5577:2,
4171:6
Where were Peter, John, James, Thomas and the other apostles, that they
did not volunteer assistance? Doubtless they were deterred by fear.
R5577:2, 3369:6
Out of the country -- A passing farmer. R5577:2
Alexander and Rufus -- The mention of their names is strong
corroboration of the tradition that Simon was known to the apostle and
that he ultimately became a Christian. R4172:1
To bear his cross -- Carrying the hinder part which usually dragged.
(Luke 23:26) R3369:6, 2787:1
Whether by carrying the cross entirely or by walking behind Jesus and
carrying a portion of the weight is not made very clear by the original
text. R5577:2, 4171:6, 3369:6, 2787:1
Greatly weakened by three years of ministry, giving his vitality freely in
healing of diseases; and being in a constant strain, without sleep, from
the time he had sent his disciples to prepare the Passover. R5577:2, 3370:1
He took the infirmities of humanity until much weakened. E125
The opportunity is with us now to take up the cross and follow after him.
R2787:1
If disposed to envy Simon his privilege, let us reflect that many of the
Lord's brethren are daily bearing symbolic crosses and that it is our
privilege to assist them. R3370:1, 2473:2
If no brother sees his privilege, the Lord will send the aid necessary,
even though it be impressed and that because of the sympathy of the
worldly. R3370:1
As the wooden cross was not his heaviest burden, so his followers have
crosses which the world sees not, but which the "brethren" should
understand. R3370:1
Mark 15:22
They bring him -- Each of the three prisoners being under the guard of
four Roman soldiers, with a centurion in command, sixteen persons in all.
R2787:1, 3369:6
Foremost went one who bore a white board on which was written the crime
for which the prisoner was to be executed. R2473:5
The place of a skull -- Because the slope of the hill closely resembled
a skull in shape and color, dark crevices in the face of the rock
corresponding to the eye sockets and nose cavity. R3370:2, 2473:3
About three-quarters of a mile from Pilate's Judgment Hall. R3370:1
The significance of the Hebrew word; the Latin name for a skull being
Calvary. R2473:3
Mark 15:23
They gave him -- Not an indignity, but an act of kindness. R3370:2

Mingled with myrrh -- Sour wine with bitter narcotics, to deaden
sensibility to pain and reduce suffering. R3370:2, 1815:3
A society of women customarily undertook this act of mercy for victims of
Roman crucifixion. R3370:2, 1815:3
Received it not -- Preferring to have his mind awake and clear to the
last. R1815:3
Matthew informs us he tasted it, as a token of appreciation, but he
refused to drink of it, preferring to experience the full measure of pain
and suffering the Father's wisdom, love and justice had prepared for him.
R3370:2, 2473:3, 1815:3
Mark 15:24
Crucified him -- The cross was laid on the ground. The victim was
stretched upon it. Nails were driven through the feet and hands. A still
more trying moment came when the cross, lifted by sturdy men, was allowed
to drop into the socket prepared for it in the rock. R3370:2
Parted his garments -- Indicating the stony-heartedness of the Roman
soldiers. R5578:1
His outer robe, his head dress, sandals and girdle--enough to give one
piece to each. R3370:3
Hence, the clothing in which Jesus appeared after his resurrection was as
specially created for the occasion as was the body in which he appeared.
B128
Casting lots -- "For his vesture they did cast lots." (Psa. 22:18)
R3370:3
Mark 15:25
The third hour -- Jewish reckoning; or nine o'clock, Friday morning, our
reckoning. R3370:3, 1815:3
They crucified him -- The death-warrant was signed by Pilate about nine
o'clock in the morning--the trial of Jesus and Pilate's various attempts
to secure his release having occupied three hours. R2473:2
Mark 15:26
Was written -- In three languages: Hebrew, the language of the country;

Greek, the language of the visitors and the educated; and Latin, the
language of the empire and of the soldiers. R2473:5
Latin, the official or governmental language of Rome; Greek, the classical
language of that period; and Hebrew, the language of the Jews. R3370:3,
2493:5
JEWS -- The term "Jew" had come to be synonymous with the term "Israel."
R2085:1, 1341:1
Mark 15:27
And with him -- "He was numbered with the transgressors." (Isa. 53:12)
R3561:5, 3370:4, 1815:6
Crucify two thieves -- The chief priests may have thus tried to detract
from the injustice of their course, or perhaps to demean Jesus. R3370:4
Mark 15:28
The scripture was fulfilled -- Isaiah 53:12. R1815:6, 3561:5, 3370:4
Mark 15:29
That passed by -- Golgotha was on a frequented route. R3370:4

Railed on him -- Now satisfied that his claims were false, that probably
his miracles were deceptions wrought, as the Pharisees said, by the power
of Beelzebub, the prince of devils. R3370:4
"As he is so are we in this world." (1 John 4:17) R2316:5
Wagging their heads -- "We did esteem him smitten and afflicted of God."
(Isa. 53:4) R2316:5
Thou that destroyest -- He had not spoken of destroying their Temple,
but had said that if they destroyed the Temple, it would be reared again
within three (antitypical) days. R3370:5
To a sensitive mind like our Lord's, such a charge of misrepresentation
would be a burden upon his heart, yet he bore it patiently. R3370:6
The temple -- The true Church. R3081:1; T70
In three days -- The last of the fifth, all of the sixth, and the early
part of the seventh thousand-year day. R3375:2
Mark 15:30
Save thyself -- It never occurred to them that any one would voluntarily
lay down his life for his friend. Neither did they conceive of the
necessity or object of the Lord's death. R3370:5
Come down from the cross -- We are so glad that Jesus did not come down
from the cross, and thus leave us in our sins and the whole world
unredeemed. R3370:6
Mark 15:31
The chief priests -- Neglecting, doubtless, important matters, in their

eagerness to make sure that he did not escape them. R3370:4
He saved others -- A singular admission of the truth. R3370:6
Himself he cannot save -- A deeper significance than they realized. Only
by the sacrifice of himself could he hope to save others. R1815:6
He could have saved himself. (Matt. 26:53) R5195:4
Mark 15:32
The King of Israel -- All Israel, the twelve tribes. C293; R1341:1
Pilate called him "King of the Jews" (verse 26); proving that the term Jew
and Israelite were synonymous. R2085:1
That we may see -- Eventually those who crucified the Lord shall look
upon him whom they pierced and mourn because of him. R3370:6
They that were crucified -- Perhaps both, but probably only one--the
other for a time keeping silent, but afterward speaking in defense of
Jesus, as related in another Gospel. R3371:1
Mark 15:33
There was darkness -- Seems to have been a supernatural darkness, for an

eclipse of the sun was impossible during the full moon of the Passover
time. R1816:4
Doubtless an expression of divine wrath and as typical of the darkness of
alienation from God into which that long-favored nation had plunged by
this act. R1816:4
Picturing the temporary triumph of the power of darkness over him who is
the Light of the world. R3902:6
God hung the world in mourning when the creature crucified the Creator. It
was God's miracle, calling the attention of the world, at that time
assembled in Jerusalem, to the depth of the crime committed. R4394:4*
Until the ninth hour -- 3 o'clock PM--the time for the daily evening
sacrifice, the time Christ died. R2316:6, 3371:1, 1815:6
Mark 15:34
A loud voice -- Indicating considerable vitality still. R3371:1

My God, my God -- Attests to us the fact that he did not claim to be the
Heavenly Father, but the Son of God. R5578:5
Why hast thou forsaken -- The penalty of sin was not merely to die, but
also to be cut off from fellowship with God. Jesus, in taking the sinner's
place, must for a moment at least have the full experience of the sinner's
alienation. R5578:5, 2474:4
Jehovah's sustaining power must necessarily be withdrawn to make the
sacrifice complete. R1816:4
Evidently it had been hidden from him up to this time that he must suffer
this phase of the punishment of Adam's transgression. R2474:5
Now he must sink beneath the rod and be cut off from the favor of God,
that so, by his stripes, we might be healed. R1816:4
Because Adam as a sinner was cut off from fellowship with God, his
substitute was obliged to have a similar experience. R3371:6, 2474:4; F143
The language of real, not pro forma, agony. E94
He bore the sinner's penalty in all its particulars. E128; R5578:5
Such a dark moment might be permitted even the most worthy follower of the
Lamb. F143
Mark 15:36
Filled a spunge -- From it he sucked refreshing moisture for by this

time, under such circumstances, he must have developed a raging fever.
R3371:2
Let alone -- Our Lord's last prayer was heard even by his enemies.
R2252:1
Mark 15:37
And Jesus cried -- Exhausting all his remaining vitality, the last
triumph of victorious faith. R1816:4
What he said is not recorded in Mark's account, but Luke gives it as,
"Father, into thy hands I commit my spirit"--my life. (Luke 23:46) R3371:2
Gave up the ghost -- An old English term. He died. R2788:5
Breathed out his last breath, let go his hold upon life. R3903:4
Mark 15:38
Veil of the temple -- 60 ft. long, 30 ft. wide, 4 inches think. R3371:2
Separating the Holy and Most Holy. R3371:2
The Jew might well stand awe-struck at the rending of the heavy veil and
the throwing open to the gaze of all that which for centuries was regarded
as too sacred a place to be entered but once in the year. R4394:4*
Was rent in twain -- Christ has opened a new and living way through the
veil, that is to say, through the sacrifice of his flesh. R3371:2
Representing the opening of the way between heaven itself and the heavenly
condition of true believers still in the world. R3371:2, 2788:5
Top to the bottom -- Not from the bottom toward the top, as if it were
the result of wear, but from the top to the bottom, indicating a
manifestation of divine power. R3371:2
Implying the work was God's. R2788:5
Mark 15:39
Gave up the ghost -- The centurion was convinced of our Lord's death and
so reported to Pilate. R2476:2
The death of Christ was so important that its proofs should be
indubitable. R2476:2
The Son of God -- The closing scenes of the drama evidently were very
awe-inspiring, to his friends and enemies. R2788:5
Many were willing at last to admit that the occurrences were remarkable,
and corroborated to some extent the Master's claims. R2788:6
Mark 15:40
Salome -- The wife of Cleophas. R2473:4
Mark 15:41
Ministered unto him -- Provided for the physical wants of Jesus and the
twelve. Not by soliciting alms, but out of their abundance. F286
Mark 15:44
Pilate marvelled -- Evidence that Jesus' death was not the direct result
of crucifixion. He lived only six hours on the cross. Men who were
crucified usually lived much longer, even for days. Christ's death was a
voluntary act in the divine administration. R198:1*
Were already dead -- He died sooner than usual, not because blemished,
but because weakened by his healing ministry: "Himself took our
infirmities and bare our sicknesses." (Matt. 8:17) F123, 124
Mark 15:45
He knew it of the centurion -- The centurion charged with the execution

was convinced of his death, and so reported to Pilate, the Governor.
R3903:2
Mark 16
Mark 16:1
Sabbath was past -- Early on Sunday morning. R4212:5*

The wave of sheaf, and its antitype, the resurrection of Christ, were
"when the Sabbath was past"--the eighth day, or first day of a new week.
(Lev. 23:11) R108:3*
Mary Magdalene -- How great was the reward of these devoted women--last
at the cross and first at the sepulchre. R1816:6
Salome -- Also Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's steward; according to
Luke 24:10. R4176:3
Sweet spices -- To show sympathy and love for the deceased. R2317:3
If our Lord had been crucified on Thursday there would have been all day
Friday in which they could have completed the work of embalming. R1816:6
His friends believed that he was dead and wrapped him in spices for
burial: indeed in their grief they seem to have forgotten his promise of a
resurrection--so much so that even after he had risen it was with
difficulty that they were convinced. R3903:3
Anoint him -- Anxious to bestow the last tokens of their esteem and
love. R1816:6
Mark 16:2
And very early -- "The Lord shall help her early in the morning." (Psa.
46:5) R3375:3
In the morning -- The entire Body of Christ will be raised on the third
thousand-year day, early in the morning. R3375:3
The Lord was a part of the three days dead and rose on the third day,
early in the morning, and that likewise the first resurrection will be
complete--the entire Body of Christ will be raised on the third day, early
in the morning. R3375:2
When our Lord spoke, "Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise
it up"--"he spake of the temple of his body" (John 2:19, 21) which is the
Church. R3375:2
First day of the week -- The "third day" after his death (Luke 24:21,
46; 1 Cor. 15:4; Lev. 23:11) R3574:5* The resurrection of Christ, the
antitype of the wave of sheaf, was the eighth day, or first day of a new
week. (Lev. 23:11) R108:3*
Sunday, 16th Nisan. R4212:5*
Mark 16:3
Roll us away -- In their eagerness they forgot the great obstacle of the
stone; but the sweet incense of their devotion arose to heaven, and God
sent his angel to remove the obstacle. R1816:6
Mark 16:4
Was rolled away -- The sweet incense of the women's devotion arose to
heaven and God sent his angel to remove the obstacle. R1816:6
Mark 16:6
He is risen -- The birth, death and resurrection of our Lord are the
three circumstances of his first advent which should be remembered by
every child of God. His birth was the dawn of hope for our race; his death
was the seal of pardon and peace; and his resurrection was the assurance
which God gave of the efficacy of his blood. R1631:3, 5579:3
Jesus, the human soul, died; but he was raised from the dead a soul of a
higher order. He that ascended was the same as he that had previously
descended from the heavenly to the earthly condition. R5578:6
The resurrection of our Lord is the assurance of the resurrection of
mankind. R1816:2, 1631:4
His resurrection was the assurance which God gave to all men of the
efficacy of his precious blood. R1631:3, 5579:3
The doctrine of the resurrection is peculiar to the Jewish and Christian
religions. R3903:5
To presume that Christ's glorious body is but the reanimated body of his
humiliation is to deny the assertion of the Apostle that "it doth not yet
appear" what a spiritual body is. (1 John 3:2) R1817:4
necessary to establish in the minds of the disciples the fact of his
resurrection. If it had remained there it would have been an
insurmountable barrier to their faith. R1817:4
Mark 16:7
Go your way -- It seems that Mary Magdalene separated from the other
women and ran to tell Peter and John. (John 20:1, 2) B112
Tell his disciples -- Carefully looking up each one of "the eleven,"
sending the women who were first to the sepulcher to communicate the fact
of his resurrection to each of them. R1522:4
And Peter -- Specially mentioned lest he should be overcome with
discouragement on account of his previous unfaithfulness. R1522:4, 5053:5,
4714:1
Setting us an example of benevolence and forgiveness without request.
R5053:5
Mary hastened to the home of John, where Peter was lodging. R4176:3
He goeth before you -- Because in his resurrection Jesus was so
different, we are prepared to understand why he conducted himself so
differently from that which he had done before. R5578:6
Into Galilee -- Their home. B112
Shall ye see him -- After his resurrection we find our Lord promptly
taking up his work just where it had been broken off by his death--the
work of still further preparing the apostles to bear reliable testimony to
the whole Church. R1522:4
Mark 16:9
Now when Jesus -- No part of the 16th chapter of Mark, after the 8th
verse, is genuine. R3311:5, 4359:3, 3728:3, 2871:6, 2675:5, 2141:5,
1536:6, 1314:3; F637, 649; HG720:3; Q325:T, 747:4; NS345:1, 859:5, 860:6
Omitted in the Sinaitic and Vatican manuscripts. Evidently Mark's Gospel
was originally incomplete and someone undertook to finish it about the
fifth century. The fifth century Alexandrian manuscript is the oldest to
contain the last 12 verses. R1998:5; HG403:3; SM568:1
These verses are spurious according to the American Standard Version, the
Diaglott, and the Revised Version. HG261:4
Some of the items in these verses are found in other Gospels. It would
never do to add a lie without a certain amount of covering of truth to
sugarcoat it. NS859:5
Every theory which requires bolstering up by spurious passages should be
abandoned, and will be abandoned by those who are honest truth-seekers.
NS681:2
He appeared first -- The first of a maximum of eleven appearances (all
enumerated in the article). R3905:2-5
We do not use such terms as "manifesting" ourselves or "appearing" to one
another, but they are used respecting Jesus because in his resurrection he
was a Spirit being. CR367:3, 467:2
He appeared in various fleshly forms materialized. R266:5; CR467:2
It was necessary the apostles should be a witness to testify Jesus was
risen from the dead. CR467:1
To Mary Magdalene -- He was still their Lord and Master, the same Jesus,
although no longer Jesus in the flesh. R3905:2
Out of whom he had cast seven devils -- She from thenceforth became one
of the Lord's most earnest followers. R3375:5
Mark 16:10
And she went -- Verses 10 to 20 are spurious. To sanction them would be

to join with those who wrote them in adding to the Word of God. (Rev.
22:18) Q747:4
Mark 16:12
After that -- Where was he the remainder of the time? Present, but
invisible. R579:2, 18:5
He appeared -- Seven times in the flesh, once in glory above the
brightness of the sun. He was the same at all times, but the
manifestations were different. R5579:4
Sunday afternoon; the fourth of possibly eleven appearances. R3905:3
He is said to appear, or show himself, language never used of him before
his change from a natural to a spiritual body; now, as angels had done, he
appeared. R579:2, 18:5
In another form -- Not only as a different person, but also in different
clothing; for his clothing had been parted amongst the soldiers. R5579:1
He created, or materialized, a body and clothing in their presence; and
after a few moments he vanished out of their sight, dissolving the body
and the clothing, while he, the spirit being, remained invisible. R5579:1
The manner of the testimony of the resurrection proves three things: (1)
the fact of the resurrection; (2) the Lord's change of nature, and (3) his
personal identity, notwithstanding the change of nature. R1816:5
Mark 16:14
Sat at meat -- Since our Lord made himself known several times in
connection with their partaking of food, the early Church appears to have
gotten into the habit of having a simple meal in common in remembrance of
this--a sort of love feast. R1421:2
Mark 16:15
Go ye -- This verse and all this chapter from verse nine to the close is
acknowledged by all scholars to be an interpolation. We should better use
the well-authenticated words of Matt. 28:19. R4359:3, 3728:3, 3311:5,
2871:6, 2675:5, 2141:5
It was necessary that the twelve apostles bear witness to the fact that
Jesus had risen for there could have been no Gospel message of hope of
divine favor through a dead Savior. R5579:2
God gave all his consecrated followers authority to preach the good news
of a New Covenant, another chance to all mankind to gain everlasting life.
R807:1
Into all the world -- Indicating that it was no longer confined to the
Jew. R605:1
Flash forth the truth into every nook and corner where dark creeds and
black theories have so long lain. R825:6
Mark 16:15
Preach the gospel -- So long as the apostles could reasonably, properly

find hearers for the Master's word, they preached it. So it must be with
us. We must not be intimidated. R4317:4
Each steward of the manifold grace of God should remember his commission.
R825:5, 4317:4
To every creature -- Greek, ktisis, meaning, man in the flesh. HG31:4
When our Lord broke down the middle wall of partition between Jew and
Gentile the Gospel went to every creature; not that every creature would
hear, but that there was no longer a distinction to be made. HG188:4
Mark 16:16
He that believeth -- It is consecrated believers only who may be

developed and perfected now--he that believeth and is baptized. R605:2
The test or judgment of the Church during the Gospel age is "not works,
but faith." R700:3
No man will be saved without faith in Christ as his ransom; some in this
age, the vast majority in the coming age. R936:1
Baptized -- Immersed in water in the likeness of the real immersion into
death. R937:4, 606:3
With the baptism that Christ was baptized with, into death. R605:3, 606:3,
936:4
Shall be saved -- During this age; the advantage to this class is the
high exaltation to a new nature--the spiritual. R606:3, 700:3
These words are in accord with the teachings of the Gospel. Only those who
hear about the Lord Jesus, who believe and make a consecration--are
baptized into his death--belong to the class God is now saving. All the
remainder are damned, more properly, condemned, in Father Adam because of
his disobedience. HG345:1
Shall be damned -- Greek, katakrino, rejected. The great mass of mankind
will be condemned as unfit for the service of the Master in this "high
calling." He that believeth shall be chosen, he that believeth not, shall
be rejected. HG17:2 Our word "damned," from misusage and the bad theology
of the Dark Ages, has a sulphorous odor, whereas its plain, simple meaning
is the same as the word "condemn." NS860:3, 859:5
Or condemned, as entirely unfit to receive the favor during this age; but
not irrecoverably damned as unfit for service, for restitution. R606:3,
936:4
Mark 16:17
These signs shall follow -- Verse 17 and 18 are an interpolation, made

somewhere about the fifth century. F637
These words are not true of the Lord's followers. R3728:3
Neither observation nor history attests the fulfillment of such a
statement. It is evident that these signs do not now accompany belief in
Christ. R1998:5
With new tongues -- A Satanic counterfeit of the gift of unknown tongues
of Pentecost, now deluding honest souls throughout Christendom. R3941:2-5
It is our understanding that the speaking in unknown tongues in religious
meetings is a deception being practiced upon earnest children of God.
NS861:5
Mark 16:18
Any deadly thing -- Spurious. The thought that the Lord's people may be
specially favored of him in respect to physical health and other creature
comforts is a delusion and a snare. F650 Not hurt them -- Our Lord did not
use his power, so far as the record shows, upon any of his followers or
disciples. R3728:4
While no immunity from poisons, bites and stings is granted to the Gospel
Church, we have the Lord's promise that nothing shall by any means hurt us
as new creatures. R2675:5
They shall recover -- Let us not seek for the loaves and fishes of
physical healing, but let us seek spiritual health and vigor, and all
these temporal things shall be added unto us according to divine wisdom
and love. R3728:6
Mark 16:19
So then after -- The manifestations in the flesh during the forty days
corresponded exactly to the manifestations which Jesus had made long
previously, one of which was to Abraham. R5579:4
These forty days were necessary, for teaching: (1) that he was no longer
dead, but alive; and (2) that he was no longer a man, but a spirit. R5579:1
Into heaven -- "Where he was before." (John 6:62) R1059:3, 445:5*
On the right hand -- Comparing John 6:62 and Mark 16:19 we conclude that
before his advent to earth Jesus occupied the right hand position, but was
not so exalted as his present position. (Phil 2:9) R1059:3, 445:5*
Not the Father's position, but the chief position at the Father's right
hand--right hand signifying the chief position of favor or power. R445:5*
Mark 16:20
The Lord working -- By whatever means the apostles confirmed the word,
it was by the power of the Lord Jesus working with them--whether by
destruction of life or by healing. R61:6*
With signs following -- But Paul shows us (1 Cor. 13:8-10) that when
the necessity for such signs is done away they no longer continue. R605:3
Luke
General
Luke, the physician, was not one of the apostles, and his records are not
therefore of apostolic authority. Such authority or plenary inspiration
was not necessary, however, in the recording of plain, simple facts such
as the Gospel of Luke and the books of Acts present. It is reasonable to
assume that since the Lord used Luke's abilities in connection with the
work of recording the facts of that time he was guided of the holy Spirit
in the ascertainment of the facts, which his education and natural talents
eminently qualified him to state succinctly. Luke was guided of the holy
Spirit, in the same sense that all of the Lord's consecrated people are
guided by his Spirit, which is to a different degree from the plenary
inspiration granted to the twelve apostles. R2924:1
See also "THE FOUR GOSPELS--GENERAL"
Luke 1
Luke 1:1
Forasmuch -- It would have been easy for dishonest men to have omitted
these introductory words and have given the gospel the name of James,
Paul, Andrew, Peter, or Nathaniel. R2816:4
Believed among us -- Among us primitive Christians. R2816:3
Luke 1:2
Even as they -- The apostles. R2816:3
Luke 1:3
To me -- Luke, a physician. R2924:1

To write -- The transition from oral to written teaching was gradual.
R434:5*
Most excellent Theophilus -- A friend, supposed to have been a person of
considerable dignity and influence. R2924:1
Comparing this with Acts 1:1, we see that Luke is the author of that book
as well. R5829:1
Luke 1:4
That thou mightest know -- The oral word being committed to writing by
apostles and evangelists, and accredited publicly by the churches in the
lifetime of the writers. R434:5*
The certainty -- The unerring certainty. R434:5*
Luke 1:6
Both righteous -- John was given them in answer to prayer. R1671:6

The preparation for John's ministry began before he was born, in the
hearts of his parents. R1915:3
The "chosen vessel" is always a prepared vessel and this preparation from
God begins long before the chosen one knows of it. R1915:6
Luke 1:13
John -- The Redeemer's forerunner and herald. R4940:4, 4939:2; B253;

CR400:2
Luke 1:15
Shall be great -- Because of favorable prenatal conditions. R1671:3,

1916:1
Most highly honored of all the prophets in that he was chosen to introduce
the Son of God to Israel and the world. R1916:4
He was a great man, preacher and prophet; great in the sense that he that
ruleth his own spirit, according to divine principles, is greater than he
that taketh a city. (Prov. 16:32) R1916:1
At maturity he was ready for the work of introducing to Israel the
long-promised Messiah. R1916:1
"He that is greatest among you, let him be as ...he that doth serve."
(Luke 22:26) R1916:5
Patiently submit to the humbling now, and joyfully wait for the glory by
and by. R1916:5
Sight of the Lord -- Because meek and lowly of heart. R1916:2
But not in the eyes of man; never a guest in the palace of Herod, but a
prisoner; no orator, but a "voice crying in the wilderness" (Isa. 40:3);
not arrayed in purples, but in camels' hair. R1916:1
The great ones of earth have passed away; they have all come to naught,
and in the Millennial judgment they will come forth to shame and confusion
of face. R1916:4
Wine -- From Greek, oinos, grape wine, which always intoxicates when
used to excess. R509:4
Filled with the Holy Ghost -- God's power began to operate upon him at
his birth, and even before. CR400:2
After the same manner that the other prophets throughout the Jewish age
had been under that holy Spirit. R2562:3
We must not understand this to mean that he was begotten of the holy
Spirit, in the sense that Christians are begotten of it. R2562:3
From his mother's womb -- The Scriptures make plain the fact that
children may and should be consecrated to the Lord by their parents before
their birth, or even their begetting; so that the little one may ratify
the covenant of consecration at a tender age. R1671:3
His prenatal influences were such that, from his birth, his heart was
inclined toward God and holiness. R1916:1
Luke 1:16
Shall he turn -- Restore harmony between Israel and "the fathers", the
patriarchs, etc. R557:4
Representing that the world shall come into a condition of harmony and
peace with God. R557:4
Luke 1:17
Shall go before him -- Jesus. R556:6

In the spirit -- John the Baptist was not actually Elijah returned to
earth, neither is the Church. B253
We know positively that John was not Elijah for we have his own testimony
on the subject. "And they asked him, Art thou Elijah? And he said, I am
not." (John 1:21) Q772:4, 817:2
And power of Elias -- An uncompromising and fearless spirit, backed by
the power of divine truth. R1379:2
Doing an Elijah work for fleshly Israel, introducing Christ in the flesh.
B253
All who have this spirit and the power of present truth concerning the
Kingdom and Christ's presence, constitute the Elias. R1379:2
As the man Christ Jesus was introduced by the man John doing an Elijah
work, so the glorious Christ must be preceded by a great Elijah, making
ready for the second advent. R2839:1
The Elijah class will now call attention to the present Christ. R557:2
Elijah and John represented the true and faithful witnesses of this Gospel
age. R557:2
John the Baptist stood for, or represented, a multitudinous Elijah, as
Jesus stood for, or represented, a multitudinous Christ. R557:1
"If ye will receive it, this is the Elias." (Matt. 11:14) R1379:1
To turn the hearts -- To prepare the way of Messiah by performing a
reformation work in preaching repentance and baptism for the remission of
sins and declaring the Kingdom of heaven at hand. Q772:4
John's work as Elijah did not fail because of his own lack of faith, but
because of the Jews' unreadiness of heart to be influenced by him. R2838:6
To the wisdom -- In a word, to restore harmony between Israel and the
"fathers," the patriarchs, and, in a fuller sense, the world whom Israel
typified shall come into a condition of harmony with God, similar to that
of the "fathers." R557:4
As a forerunner or introducer. R2838:6
Make ready a people -- Preparing the way for the reign of the glorified
Church and its glorious head, by making ready a people prepared, the
Little Flock. R557:2
Luke 1:19
Gabriel -- One of the most honored angels, but inferior to Michael.

R490:5
Luke 1:20
Thou shalt be dumb -- If Zacharias' faith was tested, it was found

strong, and was assisted by his nine-month experience of dumbness. R4940:4
Luke 1:24
Elizabeth conceived -- As, in the cases of Sarah (Gen. 18:9-14), Hannah

(1 Sam. 1:5-27) and the Shunamite (2 Kings 4:14-17), the miraculous
interposition of divine power quickened the natural forces where they had
been dormant, inoperative or entirely suspended. R560:6*
Luke 1:26
In the sixth month -- Probably on Christmas day of the year 3 BC. B62
Gabriel was sent -- The chiefest messenger remaining in the courts of
glory. R490:5
Luke 1:27
Virgin -- This child was specially begotten by divine power though Mary
was still a virgin when she brought forth the child. R4964:1
Luke 1:28
The angel came in -- Christmas day is more properly the annunciation

day, or the date of his human begetting. R3468:2, 3114:3, 2558:4; B61
Blessed art thou -- The fact that Mary was honored by the Lord above all
other women, in that she was chosen to be the mother of Jesus according to
the flesh, would prove her nobility of character and purity of heart.
R2558:3
Luke 1:30
Fear not -- Not fearing reproach from Joseph or the world. E102
Found favor -- Mary was full of faith and the joy of the Lord, to be an
instrument in his plan. E102
Luke 1:31
Jesus -- Signifies Savior, or Liberator--"For he shall save his people

from their sins." (Matt. 1:21) R1006:1, 270:2, 134:2
Luke 1:32
He shall be great -- Naturally sustaining the misconception of the

character of the first advent. This was the Messiah they were looking for,
not "a man of sorrows." (Isa. 53:3) Yet he taught, by precept and example:
"He that would be great, let him be the servant of all." (Mark 10:43,44)
HG72:1
Son of the Highest -- Fulfilling the predictions respecting the Messiah;
the long-promised seed of Abraham. R5157:2, 5300:5
The title of the Son of God officially applied to the man Christ Jesus
before his birth, and this title he constantly approved. NS256:6
And the Lord God -- The whole gospel dispensation comes between the
beginning and ending of this text. HG52:5
Throne of his father -- Christ Jesus is the promised scion of David's
house, the heir of his throne, referring to the dignity, power and
authority of office which David exercised. C257
Not needful that he should have a human father of the Davidic line. The
principle of inherited royalty through a mother is illustrated in the
current (1883) heir apparent to the throne of Great Britain, the Prince of
Wales, not through his father, but through his mother, the queen. R453:1
In Jewish genealogies it was customary to reckon lineage through either
parent. R453:1
The throne of David is the emblem, or symbol, of David's reign, or
kingdom; and David's reign, or kingdom, is a type, or figure, or shadow,
of the reign, or Kingdom, of David's Son and Lord. R1283:1*
David -- The throne of David is the symbol of David's reign; a type of
the Kingdom of David's Son and Lord. R1283:1, 1063:1
The long-promised King of David's line, the Messiah. PD65/77; SM210:2;
C257; E130, 133
Also called the "seed of Abraham" (Gal. 3:16; Rom. 4:13) and the "seed of
the woman [Eve]." (Gen. 3:15) R1063:1*
Luke 1:35
The Holy Ghost -- Jesus was begotten, not by Joseph, but by the holy
Spirit. R3291:2, 4964:1, 432:4, 84:3
Come upon thee -- The narrative of Jesus' miraculous conception has the
very best and oldest Greek MSS. to support it--the Sinaitic, Vatican and
Alexandrian in Luke; though the account is missing in Matthew--not
omitted. R434:4
The life principle by which Jesus was conceived came directly from the
Heavenly Father. R5064:3, 1031:1*, 432:4
That holy thing -- "Holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners."
(Heb. 7:26) E95; R5748:2, 3710:3, 3291:6, 776:1, 453:1, 432:4
Holy, because his life did not come from Adam, the contaminated fountain.
E103; R777:1,5, 432:4
He knew no sin, while all other men are sinners by nature. (2 Cor. 5:21;
Rom. 5:18; 1 Pet. 2:22) R776:2
He partook of the human nature without its condemnation. R1247:5
He did not partake of the condemned or forfeited life of Adam through
Joseph, but of a life as directly from God as was the first Adam's; an
unforfeited life which he could give for the life of Adam and all who died
in him. R432:4*, 316:1*
His life came directly from heaven (Heb. 1:5) and he was therefore, though
human, yet free, both from Adamic sin and its penalty, death. R1031:1*,
997:6
The only obstacle to the generation of a perfect man is the lack of a
perfect father to give a perfect life-germ. In the case of Jesus a perfect
life-germ was transferred by divine power from a pre-existent condition to
the embryo human condition. R777:1; E103
If we can have a perfect life germ we can have a perfect child from an
imperfect mother. If a breeder of stock wishes to raise the standard of
his stock, he selects a fine bull, and thus improves his entire herd. And
so, if we had perfect fathers, we would soon have a perfect race. R4964:1
What was needed was not merely a sacrifice for sins, but a sinless
sacrifice, which would thus pay the sinner's penalty. E96
Our Lord was unlike sinners in respect to sin, imperfection; but like them
in the sense of having their same nature or flesh--he, in its perfection;
they, in various degrees of imperfection through sin. R997:6
Born of thee -- Though retaining perfection, he partook of the nature of
his mother. R777:5, 1247:5
He was the seed of the woman (Gen. 3:15), and not the seed of man. His
very nature was perfectly holy, unlike our nature. R84:3*
Though life or being comes from the father, form and nature come from the
mother. E103
Illustrated by the improper union between the "daughters of men" (Gen.
6:2) and those angels which kept not their proper estate or condition. The
wonderful offspring were born of imperfect, dying mothers, but begotten by
vigorous, unimpaired fathers. E103
The Son of God -- He became man, and was a Son of God; as Adam was a son
of God. R316:1*
Luke 1:36
The sixth month -- John the Baptist was six months older than our Lord
and began to preach six months before our Lord became of age and began his
ministry. B58
Luke 1:39
A city of Judah -- Ain-Karim, marked by tradition as the birthplace of

John the Baptist. R1381:6
Luke 1:42
Blessed art thou -- The hope to be the mother of the long promised "seed
of the woman" (Gen. 3:15) seems to have filled the heart of Eve's
daughters through the line of the family of godly Seth, all the way down
to and including Mary. R1175:3
Luke 1:44
The babe leaped -- "Filled with the holy Spirit even from his mother's
womb." (Luke 1:15) R1671:6
Luke 1:46
And Mary said -- Compare the language and sentiment of her

poetic-prayer-prophecy with that of Hannah in 1 Sam. 2:1-10. R1813:2
My soul -- Being; life and body combined. R205:1
Magnify the Lord -- Not fearing the reproaches of Joseph or others. E103
The mind of Jesus' mother, instead of being antagonistic to his perfect
development, cooperated to that result. E103
Luke 1:52
Put down the mighty -- Solomon's line; from being Messiah's ancestors.
E133
Exalted -- The crown and diadem were removed from Zedekiah, and from the
line of Solomon, to be given to him whose right it is--the Righteous
Branch of the Davidic root. E133
Them of low degree -- Nathan's line. E133
Luke 1:53
Filled the hungry -- Referring to the restitution blessings to be

granted to all the meek of the earth through the Millennial reign of
Christ. R1754:6
Luke 1:54
His servant Israel -- The whole twelve tribes. C293; R1341:1
Luke 1:63
John -- Signifying, "the favor of God." R4940:2
Luke 1:64
His tongue loosed -- His faith had been helped. He had triumphed over
all doubts and manifested this by giving him the name mentioned by
Gabriel. R4940:2
Luke 1:68
Blessed be the Lord -- Praise to God, the Fountain of every good and
perfect gift, comes first. R4940:3
In verses 68 to 70, of this prophecy praise to God comes first. R4940:3
God of Israel -- The whole twelve tribes. C293; R1341:1
He hath visited -- After the usual manner of prophecies, the thing about
to be accomplished is spoken of as though it had been done. R4940:3
In fulfillment of his gracious promises of old. R4940:3
Redeemed his people -- Greek, poieolutrosin, to make a loosing, i.e., to
set at liberty, to deliver, occurring only once. Literally, wrought
redemption for his people. E433
This word should not have been translated redeemed but rather delivered,
as a guard against confusion of thought by the English readers. E433
Things not completed are here mentioned as though they had been
accomplished: the first step toward Israel's deliverance had been taken,
and it was spoken of joyously as though the entire matter were already
accomplished. E433
Applies not only to the redeeming work accomplished by Jesus at baptism,
but is comprehensive enough to take in the entire work of reclaiming
humanity. R4940:5
Luke 1:69
Raised up an horn -- Symbol of power. T42

The begetting of Jesus had already taken place. The holy Spirit spoke of
the things begun, but not yet accomplished, as though finished. R4940:5
Luke 1:71
We should be saved -- Verses 71 to 75, relate to the deliverance of

God's people from the power of their enemies. R4940:5
None but God's people will ever be delivered from the enemies here
referred to. R4940:5
From our enemies -- Enemies through wicked works, blinded by the god of
this world. R4940:6
Satan is an enemy. Sin is an enemy. And "the last enemy that shall be
destroyed is death." (1 Cor. 15:26) R4940:6
Luke 1:73
The oath -- The church are the children of the oath, the Abrahamic
Covenant. R5300:5
Luke 1:76
And thou -- Verses 76 to 79 tells of a work to be accomplished before

the destruction of all enemies and the lifting up of those worthy to be
Shalt go before -- Be the forerunner of Jesus. R4941:1
Luke 1:77
To give knowledge -- To show them the "high calling" of this present

age. R4941:4
Luke 1:78
The dayspring -- The "Morning Star" or "Day Star," before the Sun of
Righteousness arises to scatter the darkness of mankind during Messiah's
reign. R4941:4
This "Day Star" guides the feet of the saints, even while still in the
time of trouble, before the new dispensation is ushered in. R4941:4
Luke 1:79
To give light -- Truth. A20, 25

Shining into the hearts of believers with sanctifying power and setting
them afire with zeal for the truth. R4941:4
All shall have at least 100 years of opportunity under the clear light of
"the Sun of Righteousness." (Mal. 4:2) R1772:5
Sit in darkness -- Ignorance. A18, 25; B163
Luke 1:80
The child grew -- Probably as a forester. R2562:5

Strong in spirit -- Greek, pneuma--mind, character. E318
In the deserts -- Not in the sandy deserts, but more properly in the
wilds, the uncultivated regions, perhaps in the "hill country" where his
parents resided. R2562:5
Possibly the Lord's providences ordered the affairs of his parents so that
they were forced to reside in such a wilderness where they would have
comparatively little intercourse with others. R2562:5
Till the day -- The period, not the 24-hour day. R2836:1
When he was 30 years of age. R2563:1
Unto Israel -- No longer regarded by our Lord and the apostles as the
"ten tribes" merely, but, as it is expressed, "All Israel." R1341:1; C293
Luke 2
Luke 2:1
It came to pass -- In a seemingly accidental manner the prophecy was

fulfilled which foretold that Messiah would be born in Bethlehem. (Mic.
5:2) R3700:5
In those days -- Especially auspicious because: (1) the spirit of
world-conquering had brought the nations into close contact, broadening
their ideas; (2) the transplanting of peoples to other lands made them
more cosmopolitan; (3) Israel had been largely scattered, bearing
influence and witness amongst other nations; (4) the Greek language had
reached its zenith and was the literary language of the civilized world;
(5) Roman conquest assured universal peace and hence a more favorable time
for the announcement of the Gospel and the safety of its representatives;
and (6) Israel was at its highest development, intellectually, morally and
religiously. R2555:6, 1673:6
Also, the Old Testament had been translated into the Greek language three
centuries before Christ. This version is called the Septuagint. R1674:1
Went out a decree -- Thus, in a providential manner over which they had
no control whatever, Joseph and Mary were brought to the very city in
which most appropriately the great heir of David should be born, as
foretold by Micah (Mic. 5:2). R2556:2
Caesar Augustus -- The Roman Emperor. R2556:1, 3700:5
Representing Rome, the fourth universal empire. A253
Noted for his systematic collection of large taxes from all tributary
nations. C29
That all the world -- The Roman empire at that time bore rule over the
whole world, the civilized world of that day. R3700:5, 3702:4; A253
Should be taxed -- A poll or census of the whole world for the purpose
of taxation. R3700:5, 2556:1
Corresponding faithfully to the prophetic description of Caesar Augustus
in Dan. 11:20. C29
Luke 2:3
Went to be taxed -- Every male citizen had to report to his native city.
R2556:1
For tax registration. R4941:3
Luke 2:4
The city of Nazareth -- In olden times there were honorable cities and
mean cities. Nazareth was generally recognized as one of the latter, while
Bethlehem was distinctly one of the former--the City of David, Israel's
beloved king. R3700:3
Bethlehem -- The chief city of their province. R1401:3
Lineage of David -- Both Joseph and Mary, though through different
lines. R3700:5, 3702:4, 2556:2
Luke 2:5
Mary -- Luke shows the genealogy of Mary, by which our Lord was related
to the family of David through the line of Nathan. R2555:6
Luke 2:7
She brought forth -- It matters not that December 25 is not the

anniversary of our Lord's birth, that really he was born about September
25. One day, as well as another, will serve us to commemorate our Savior's
birth in the flesh. R4298:3, 3700:2, 3114:3, 2558:4, 2407:2; NS750:2
Though we reverence his flesh, and are deeply interested in all that
pertains thereto, nevertheless, our still greater interest is in our risen
Lord. R2556:4
Luke 2:7
Her first-born son -- In a most humble manner. R3702:5

A gift of love divine. R5135:2
Implying that she brought forth other sons afterward. R560:2*
About October 1st, 2 BC; 33-1/2 years prior to April 3rd, 33 AD; 29-1/2
years prior to the beginning of John's ministry in the 15th year of
Tiberius Caesar. B60, 61
Manger -- Became his most convenient cradle. R2556:3, 3700:6, 1247:3
No room for them -- The experiences of Joseph and Mary were by no means
exceptional. R2556:3, 3702:4
The same decree brought many others of the numerous family of David, and
as the inns were comparatively limited and small, it is not surprising
that the inn proper was full of guests. R2556:3
Neither Joseph, nor Mary, nor Jesus, nor the disciples, nor the Evangelist
who recorded the incident, offers the slightest complaint or suggestion of
dissatisfaction with the arrangement provided by divine providence. R2556:5
Had the people recognized who he was, how gladly they would have welcomed
him into their inn. Similarly, wherever the Lord's people are, many would
make them welcome, did they but recognize them as messengers of Jesus and
the Heavenly Father. R2556:4
Luke 2:8
Shepherds -- The vicinity of Bethlehem is a pastoral country and is

today covered with flocks. R2556:5
The grand truth of the Savior's birth was sent through humble,
trustworthy, human agents. R1674:1
The announcement was not made to an assembled world, nor even an assembled
Israel, nor yet to all who, like Simeon and Anna, had long been looking
for the hope of Israel, but to only a few devout shepherds. R1674:1 We may
take for granted that the humble shepherds to whom the message of the
Lord's advent first came were men who thus hoped in the promise of God;
for to such, and such only, the Lord discloses his purposes. R1478:2
As a class, not particularly well educated as respects schools; yet many
of them were thoughtful, and secured by reflection and conversation
considerable knowledge. They might be termed an intellectual and thinking
class of people. R2556:5
Keeping watch -- As a guard against thieves, as well as against wild
beasts. R2556:5
This account does not comport with a mid-winter birth for Christ. R562:4
Would that the shepherds of the Lord's flock were now watching: they would
now be advised of the second coming of the Lord's Anointed. R1401:5
Luke 2:9
Were sore afraid -- Fear is one of the dominating impulses of the human
mind, especially in connection with any revelation from the Lord. Men
realize they are imperfect and instinctively fear further curse and
condemnation. R3700:6, 3115:2, 2556:6; NS750:3
All mankind more or less feels instinctively a fear of the supernatural, a
trepidation at the very thought of being in the presence of the holy
angels. R2556:6
Man's acquaintance with those in influence and power lead him to dread the
still greater authority and power of the Almighty, lest it should be
injurious to him. R3115:3
All humanity realize that they are sinners and naturally have forebodings.
They find it difficult to believe that God is really gracious and loving.
R4941:5
Satan has used this tendency of fear as a lash, wherewith to drive man
away from God, and from the Bible, his revelation. NS750:4
Luke 2:10
The angel said -- If we could only get all true Christians to study this
verse and to see the depths of its significance, it would quickly
revolutionize the teachings of Christendom. R2557:2
Fear not -- The angel understood that through sin man becomes fearful in
the presence of spirit beings. R3115:2, 3700:6, 2556:6
Only the true Christian has that perfect love which casts out fear. (1
John 4:18) R3115:3
It is for the true children of God today, as it was for the angels at that
time, to assure the world that God is better than all their fears. R3700:6
So in approaching mankind with God's message, it is appropriate that we
begin by saying, Fear not! The God we preach is not a demon, but a God of
wisdom, justice and love, with all power to carry his program to a
successful conclusion. NS750:3
As God's children realize that his work is surely going forward to
success, doubts and fears give way, rejoicing takes the place of
despondency. R632:5*
"Their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men." (Isa. 29:13) The
Lord would have his people free from this fear, though not free from a
proper reverence toward him. R3115:3
I bring you -- Reiterating the Abrahamic promise, "In thee and in thy
seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed." (Gen. 12:3) NS554:6,
800:1
Glad would we be if we had a thousand tongues to sing our great Redeemer's
praise, and a thousand hands and feet to use in the promulgation of this
blessed message. R4103:5
Good tidings -- The Gospel. R5126:1, 3701:1, 2596:1, 2557:1; HG615:2,
655:3
A good message, a glorious message, assuring the deliverance and blessing
of all the world. R5717:1
A prophecy of good things to be accomplished for the Church and the world
during the Millennium. R3701:4
When Messiah's Kingdom shall be established. R4848:2, 5370:3
When all the deaf ears shall be unstopped, and blind eyes shall be opened.
(Isa. 35:5) R5370:3, 4523:1
Transcending anything and everything else in the world; all other
philosophies are foolishness. R5126:1
The Gospel contains no reference to the damnation and eternal misery of
any. R2596:1
That good message of God's love began to be lost sight of in the second
century. R5970:6
Thus far it has been good tidings only to the Church. R5370:3
The meat in due season--the harvest message. R4105:3
We are to tell out these tidings by personal contact, by handing out
literature, by preaching. R5893:4
The blessedness of these tidings is cumulative: first, "good tidings";
then "great joy"; and then the crowning feature of it is that it is "to
all people." The sacrificial feature of the Lord's ministry was made less
prominent than his power and majesty and glory, because the sacrifice
related specially to God. R4098:2
Of great joy -- Not great misery. R3701:1, 4523:1, 5893:4
Should be to all Christians a gladsome message; but rejected by nominal
As there was joy at the return of the prodigal. (Luke 15:11-24) R3361:5
Of privilege, love, hope. R3115:4
Of remission of sins through Christ's blood, of reconciliation with the
Father. R2564:5
"Blessed are the people that know the joyful sound." (Psa. 89:15) R2568:3
Man's joys will increase with every step taken on the return journey back
from sin and death to perfection of life. NS614:6
Prefigured in the name Isaac, which signifies "laughter." R3952:6
To all people -- In due time. (1 Tim. 2:4-6) R1908:2
God, who had a "due time" for calling natural Israel and who had a "due
time" for calling spiritual Israel, has a "due time" for making known the
riches of his grace to the non-elect world of mankind. NS767:4
As every member of Adam's race shared in his fall and the curse of death,
as a result, so every member of the race was included in the great
redemptive sacrifice which our Lord Jesus offered. R3701:1
"All the deaf ears shall be unstopped." (Isa. 35:5) SM174:2
Including those now in death. R1478:3, 659:1*, 9:6*
Not only to those who, since his birth, have died in ignorance of the only
name whereby we must be saved, but also to the billions who had died
before God's salvation was brought to light in the Gospel. HG306:5
If only a few have yet heard the "good tidings" in any sense, must there
not be a restitution to life as well as a future proclamation of the only
name given? R412:6, 447:1*
How prone the Lord's people seem to be to suppose, first of all, that he
was to be a Savior merely for the Jews; or secondly, merely for a special
elect class; or thirdly, for those who under present darkness manifest a
special life for righteousness. R3115:3
The angels did not declare that our Lord came to bring universal and
everlasting salvation to all people. R3115:4
Through natural Israel, to all the families of the earth. R4848:2, 447:4
Not merely to the Little Flock. A104
In great mercy, God has provided our ransom price. R1127:5
Redemption, restitution and everlasting life will be offered to all.
R1674:4
Every member of our fallen race shall be blessed with a clear
understanding of his imperfections and of the redemption provided. R3115:3
All who have lived and died, both before and after Jesus' birth. OV170:T;
CR228:1
Only a small portion of the race has heard the "tidings" in this life.
R556:4*
All those who come unto the Father through him, by faith and obedience.
R2407:3
Luke 2:11
For -- Taking cognizance of the fact that it was to reasonable people,

who would want to know why an unchangeable God, who had once pronounced a
curse, should so alter matters to supplant the curse with a blessing, the
messenger states the philosophy of the divine plan. R3701:2, 2557:3
Note the order of presentation: first a pronouncement of divine favor and
blessing, that it is a cause for joy and shall extend to all people;
second, the specific explanation of how it is to be accomplished--through
a Savior. R2557:3
Unto you -- Mankind. PD55/67
Is born -- About October 1st, although generally celebrated on December
25th. R2407:2, 4298:3
He was transformed from the spiritual to the human nature, in order to
give the exact equivalent for that which was lost. R1673:3
"For unto us a child is born." (Isa. 9:6) R2550:1
The promised seed of Abraham. R4963:2, 5300:5
A Saviour -- Our Lord's name, Jesus, signifies Saviour. R2557:4
It was prophetically that the babe of Bethlehem was called a Savior. He
was to be a Savior, The Christ, the Lord. But as the babe he was none of
these. R4715:2, 4298:4, 3701:2
Signifying life-giver. The Syriac version is the one in which Savior is
translated life-giver; and Syriac was, likely, the language spoken by
Jesus and others of Palestine at that time. R4941:6, 4715:5, 3702:2,
2407:3; HG244:2, 306:4; NS800:1
The antitypical Moses, the antitypical Aaron, the antitypical Melchizedek,
the antitypical David. He was also the Son of the Highest. He was to be
the Savior--the Deliverer--the Mediator of the New Covenant. R4941:6
If the Redeemer was not perfect, then he could not be the Saviour of the
world. R4964:1
A life-giver is a father. Jesus is to be the "Everlasting Father" (Isa.
9:6) to the world. R2407:3
The Bride and the Bridegroom, unitedly, will be the world's Savior. R4715:5
Christ -- The Messiah, the long-promised seed of Abraham. R5300:5
The Greek word Christ signifies Anointed. R4715:2
He became the Christ before becoming the Savior and Lord. R4715:2
The angel first declared the divine favor and blessing, then how it should
be accomplished; setting an example for us. R2557:3
Called Anointed Messiah because it was foreseen of God that he would be.
R5891:1
Luke 2:12
A sign unto you -- To assure them that this was he. R1478:6
Lying in a manger -- As one of the humblest of earth. R1063:2
Necessary, not only to their identification of Jesus, but also to bring
down their thoughts from the great and grand results to its humble
beginnings, lest they should be misled in their expectations. R2557:4
Similarly we are not only to tell of the future glory, greatness and
grandeur, but we are to tell also of the present humiliation. R2557:4
Luke 2:13
The heavenly host -- As the angels could sing and rejoice at the first
budding of the divine plan of salvation, so also can all who have faith in
the ultimate outcome rejoice with joy unspeakable and give praise to God
in the highest and to his Son our Lord. R3701:3
Capable of appreciating what fallen man could not appreciate. R1674:4
This shows how the angels of God are interested in the affairs of men, and
how they sympathize with us and rejoice over our prosperity. "There is joy
in heaven among the angels over one sinner that repenteth." (Luke 15:7)
R1478:6
Praising God -- A kind of Hallelujah chorus, or angelic response to the
message of the angel already given. R4942:4
It is not surprising that they did not weep for the sufferings and
humiliation, but sang, grasping merely the culmination of the great divine
plan which had its beginning in the birth of Jesus. R4098:2
Thankful for his mercy to the children of men. R3701:2
And saying -- The anointing which we receive of the Lord is that which
leads us to declare the good tidings of this great salvation in all its
lengths and breadths and heights and depths. NS207:2
Luke 2:14
Glory to God -- This was but a reiteration of the Gospel message already
delivered. R2557:5
Properly the anthem begins with praise to him that sitteth upon the
throne, to him who devised the great and wonderful plan of redemption and
who sent his Son, our willing Redeemer. R3115:5
God will be glorified by all the angels, by his exalted Church, by
restored humanity, by all the intelligent creatures on every plane, in
every age! R5577:1
The proper glory to God is not yet rendered on earth as it is in heaven.
R4942:4
If the jubilant songs of the angels hallowed the advent of the Lord into
the world, can we imagine them to be silent when the Anointed Body is
received into glory? R1821:3
As God's children come to a knowledge of God's glorious plan, rejoicing
takes the place of despondency. R632:5*
In the highest -- In the highest strain of heart and voice, with the
fullest appreciation. R3115:5
It declared that the work which should be accomplished by the babe just
born should redound to the highest glory and honor of Jehovah God, his
Father. R2557:5
After the Millennial reign of Christ has accomplished its work. Not yet
does God receive glory in the highest. R3702:1, 3701:6
Peace -- After praising God, come the consequences on earth; namely,
peace, peace with God. a peace which comes from a restoration to the race
of the divine good will. R3115:5 A prophecy of God's purpose to bring
about through the newly born child the abrogation of the curse and the
establishment of peace and sinlessness among mankind. R5576:2
It will be during the Millennial age that this prophecy of the angel will
have its fulfillment. R3701:5; Q752:T
Not yet fulfilled. The birth of the babe was one step toward it; the death
on the cross another; the resurrection and ascension were other steps; the
selection of the Church is another, nearly completed; the Messianic
Kingdom will complete the prophecy. PD67/55
The Millennium will be introduced by force--"The Lord shall fight in that
day." (Zech. 14:3) NS131:2
Peace established upon a firm foundation--the lifting of the curse. R3115:6
In a world-wide Eden. R5715:2
Not such a peace as men might patch up between themselves, but a peace
with God. R3115:5
Good will toward men -- And not, "On earth peace amongst men, in whom he
is well pleased." Even the Lord's people have no peace on earth. R3702:1
The expression "good will toward men" as rendered by a majority of
translators is confirmed by the latest found manuscript, the Lewis
manuscript of the Gospels, discovered in 1892 in the convent at Mt. Sinai.
R1674:4
A declaration of what God purposes to do. He has not good will toward the
present sinful, rebellious attitude of the race. He has never good will
toward sin, God's curse indicated his ill-will toward man--in other words,
his displeasure because of man's sin. R5576:2, 3701:6
Even when our Lord had died as man's ransom-price, God's favor did not
come to the world. R5576:3
A prophecy of God's purpose to bring this about through the newly born
child. R5576:1; PD55/67
In a sense, the grandeur and blessing of the new dispensation began at the
birth of Jesus. C346
Steps toward this are the birth of Jesus, his death on the cross, his
resurrection and ascension, and the selection of the Church. The Messianic
Kingdom will complete the prophecy. PD55/67
Luke 2:15
Angels were gone -- The shepherds recognized the angels and their
message as from the Lord. R1479:1
Let us now go -- So each one who has heard of the grace of God with an
appreciative heart can do nothing less than seek the Lord. R2558:1
Luke 2:16
Mary and Joseph -- Were pious, reverent, and obedient to the Law.
R3711:1, 2558:3
Luke 2:17
Made known abroad -- So we must reverence, and serve his cause by

proclaiming his gracious message with which we have been favored. R2558:1
Luke 2:18
They that heard it -- The grand truth was one to be received by faith;
and it was sent through humble, but trustworthy, human agents, who were
the honored instruments in God's hand. Any who proudly despised the
instruments were unworthy of the good tidings. R1674:1
Luke 2:19
But Mary kept -- Mother-like. R1479:4

She made no boasts, but waited for God's due time. R3702:5
Doubtless it was from her lips that Luke received the information
contained in this chapter. R2559:5
And pondered them -- Wondering what would be the consummation--little
dreaming, we may be sure, how great her son ultimately must be made,
according to the divine arrangement. R3291:3
Luke 2:20
Shepherds returned -- Fully assured that the promised seed had really
come. R1479:4
Luke 2:22
When the days -- When Jesus was forty days old. (Lev. 12:1-4) Q757:5;
R4942:1
To present him -- Although the first-born had been exchanged for the
tribe of Levi, nevertheless the first-born of each mother was to be
devoted specially to God and his service. R4942:2
To the Lord -- All of the first-born are represented as belonging to the
Lord, to be devoted to God and his service. Q757:5; R4942:2
Similarly the elect Church, the Church of the first-borns, are "a kind of
first-fruits unto God of his creatures." (Jas. 1:18) R4942:2
It is the custom of some parents to make a formal consecration of their
children to God in the presence of believers. The influence upon the
children cannot be other than beneficial, though this does not take the
place of the child's personal consecration when it reaches the age of
discretion. R4942:2; Q758:T
Luke 2:23
Called holy -- The Church being gathered during this Gospel Age is
styled the Church of the first-born. (Heb. 12:23) R4942:2
"A kind of first-fruits unto God of his creatures." (Jas. 1:18) R4942:2
Luke 2:25
Just and devout -- One of the kind of characters to whom God reveals his
truth. "Light is sown for the righteous, and joy for the upright in
heart." (Psa. 97:11) R1674:2
Waiting -- The expectation of Messiah was general at that time. B21
One of a minority in heart-harmony with the Lord and his Promise; an
Israelite indeed. OV71:T
The consolation -- The fulfillment of the Abrahamic promise. R4942:5
Through the long-promised Messiah. R4098:3
Of Israel -- The whole twelve tribes. C293; R1341:1
Luke 2:26
Revealed unto him -- That the accomplishment of the promises made to

Abraham was nigh. R4942:3
Not see death -- Until he had seen the Deliverance of Israel. R4942:3
Luke 2:27
Came by the Spirit -- This aged prophet recognized Jesus. R4942:3

Parents -- Considering the foster-father Joseph as father. R3291:2
Luke 2:29
Lord -- Greek, despotes, better translated Sovereign or Autocrat. E70
Luke 2:30
Thy salvation -- The way in which salvation shall come to Israel and all
Jesus' birth was the dawn of hope for our race. R1631:3
Luke 2:32
A light -- Not yet is the Sun of Righteousness enlightening all the

Gentiles, not yet has Christ become the glory of his people Israel; he is,
nevertheless, all through this Gospel age, a great light to all those
whose eyes are opened that they may see it. R3031:6, 1674:2
"That was the true light which lighteth every man that cometh into the
world." (John 1:9) R1674:2, 3031:6
Let us walk as children of light. (Eph. 5:8) R3031:6
To lighten the Gentiles -- Salvation unto the ends of the earth. R3010:2
Nations; all mankind, regardless of faith. A107
The glory -- Not yet. R3031:6
Simeon is contrasting the two salvations. A107
Then believing Israel will glory in him. R1674:3
Thy people Israel -- The whole twelve tribes. C293; R1341:1
Such as shall become Israelites indeed. A107
Simeon declared this under divine inspiration. R1674:2
The good tidings will be to all people, but the special salvation will
come only to his people. A107
Christ is the glory of the Church, the true Israel of God (Rom. 11:7); and
he will be the glory of fleshly, or natural, Israel when their eyes are
opened and they are received by him under the New Covenant. R2126:1
Luke 2:33
And Joseph -- Not called the father of Jesus. R4957:3, 2559:4
Luke 2:34
Simeon blessed them -- It is not probable, however, that Simeon, who

spoke under divine inspiration, understood fully the import of his words.
R1674:5
Set for the fall -- During the period of Israel's disfavor. B228
Israel stumbled over Jesus, except the few who became his disciples,
probably ten or fifteen thousand. R4942:6
The world has witnessed the fall of Israel from divine favor and their sad
conditions as outcasts for nearly two thousand years, because of their
rejection of Christ. R1674:3
Reminding us of the words of Paul, that our Lord is a "stone of stumbling
and rock of offence" to many in Israel. (Rom. 9:33) R4942:5; B228
"They shall fall backward and be snared and taken" (Isa. 8:15) R4942:6
And rising again -- Greek, anastasis, without the Greek article, hence
showing no emphasis, indicating no special peculiarity. R1512:1
Paul, quoting Isa. 8:15, proceeds to show the recovery of Israel as soon
as the elect class of this Gospel age has been completed. (Rom. 11:9-11)
R4942:6
St. Paul also told of the rising again of many who stumbled. He declares:
"They shall obtain mercy through your mercy." (Rom. 11:31) R4942:5
Now the time for their rising again has come (beginning AD 1878). R1674:5
Restoring all things after their "appointed time," their double is
complete. B228
Raised up nationally. R1674:5
To divine favor. R4942:6
For a sign -- True all through the age, and the reproach of the cross
has not yet ceased. R1674:5
A mark, or standard. R4942:3
Luke 2:35
A sword shall pierce -- Referring to Christ's tragic death, and the

trial of faith thereby instituted. R1674:5
May be revealed -- Proving which are loyal and faithful to God as true
soldiers of the cross, and which are not. R1674:5
Luke 2:36
Anna, a prophetess -- Devout, faithful; a saintly woman. R1674:5, 4942:5

God requires faithfulness on the part of female as well as male stewards
in the use of all their talents. R1549:4
The Scriptures utter no voice and establish no precedent contrary to
female activity in the various legitimate pursuits of life for which
nature and education have fitted her. R1549:3
The tribe of Aser -- Another evidence that the entire house of Israel
(twelve tribes) was represented at Jerusalem in our Lord's day, and not
the tribes of Judah and Benjamin only. R1674:6; C295
Of great age -- Over a century old. R4942:5
Luke 2:38
Spake of him -- To the saintly ones, waiting for the fulfillment of the
Abrahamic promise. R4942:5
For redemption -- Greek, lutrosis, deliverance. E433
Anna spoke to those who were looking for deliverance in Jerusalem,
expecting freedom from the Roman yoke, but not necessarily understanding
that the greater deliverance was to come by payment of a ransom price. E433
Luke 2:40
The child grew -- Prior to reaching his twelfth year. R3710:6

He was permitted to grow after the ordinary manner, gradually, getting
stronger physically and mentally, being filled more and more with wisdom,
and giving evidence that God's favor was upon him. R3291:1, 2558:3
He did not miraculously know all that was in the Law and the prophets. He
acquired knowledge, but with that ease, rapidity and retentiveness with
which only a perfect mind can grasp and hold it. R1916:3
His earlier years were evidently spent in studying prophetic utterances
concerning God's Plan and his own share therein. SM643:2
Let us not forget the necessity for growth--adding to faith virtue,
knowledge, self-control, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness and love.
(2 Pet. 1:5-8) R2560:1
There is heavenly wisdom in the limited description given us of the
childhood and youth of our Savior. Let us not, then, attempt to imagine
with particularity what the Lord has seen fit to cover and not reveal
R3710:6, 2558:1
Our minds are more drawn to the important features of the Lord's work by
reason of the brevity of the sketch given us of his earthly life and
interests. R3290:6, 3291:6, 2558:1
From what we know of childhood, we recognize it as the period of
development. R5064:3
In spirit -- In mind. E52
Siniatic and Vatican MSS omit these words. R1682:2
Filled with wisdom -- This wisdom was intimately interwoven with the Law
and the prophets. R3711:2
Our Lord was not only born under favorable religious influences, but
trained in that way. His mother and her husband were pious, reverent, and
evidently disposed to be obedient to every feature of the Law to the
extent of their ability. R3711:1
Few were able to read, but Jesus was amongst those few--not because of
schooling privileges, but because of his brilliant mind which retained
everything that came to it and to which, therefore, the Bible was
continually an open book. R4957:2, 2558:3
Jewish boys had an advantage over those of other nations because the
services in the synagogues consisted of readings from the Law and prophets
by course. Thus all Jewish children had excellent facilities for hearing
the Word of the Lord. R4957:2, 2559:1
The grace of God -- The blessing. C52
The word "grace" signifies that which gives pleasure, as loveliness of
form or character, or the most admirable virtues. R3711:1
Luke 2:41
His parents -- Not implying that Saint Luke supposed Joseph to be the
father of Jesus. He was the foster father, his foster parent, or
step-father. R4957:3, 3291:2
Every year -- His "parents" were strict religionists and obeyed the
Mosaic Law by attending regularly the feast of Passover at Jerusalem every
year. R4957:3
This requirement of the Law was observed by the most devout Jews only.
R2558:3
Feast of the passover -- A great religious gathering; continued seven
days. SM563:1; R3711:1, 3291:2, 2558:5
Represented the blessings and favors of relationship to God, based upon
the merit of the Passover Lamb. SM563:1
He could not grasp the full import of the prophecies and his share in them
until after he had been anointed with the holy Spirit. R1688:2
Luke 2:42
Twelve years old -- It was a custom that Jewish boys should make a
consecration at the age which Jesus did. R5064:4
A child, reasonably well born, raised under the influences of a Christian
home, would, we believe, very generally be ready at the age of twelve
years to make a consecration of himself to the Lord. R3711:5
It is a serious mistake to conclude that a child of 12 has sufficient mind
to grasp elementary principles of secular education, and be prepared for
higher studies of a secular character, but unfit for higher religious
studies. R2558:5
It was a Jewish custom that a Jewish boy should be considered "a son of
the Law" when he attained his twelfth year. He thus became responsible
under the Law and thenceforth was required to keep its festivals, etc.
R4957:3, 3711:2, 2559:4
In his thirteenth year. R2558:4
To Jerusalem -- His first visit to the great city. R2559:1
Of the feast -- The Jewish children were accustomed to attending
religious services. R5064:4
Luke 2:43
Fulfilled the days -- The Feast of Passover continued seven days, but it
was the custom for many of the pilgrims from distant parts to remain over
only two days, until after the principle ceremonies. R2558:5
The child Jesus -- He could not begin his ministry because he was bound
by the restrictions of the Law. R3291:5
Neither Mary nor Joseph seemed to have appreciated the greatness of Jesus.
R3291:3
Tarried behind -- So absorbed with the opportunities and studies. R3291:5
Not yet finished with his investigations as to when to begin his ministry.
R4957:6
During the Passover Feast the great men were engaged in public functions.
Hence his best opportunity for conference with them was at the close of
the feast. R4957:5
He was apparently, for a child of his age, especially well able to take
care of himself. R3711:3
Joseph -- Not called the father of Jesus. R4957:3, 2559:4
Luke 2:44
In the company -- The gathering of Jews from all parts of Palestine,

yea, from the entire world, meant great crowds of people; on some
occasions more than a million. R4957:3
They sought him -- It was customary for the women of a caravan to move
on ahead, the men coming after, and a boy of Jesus' age might be with
either of the parents and not be missed until nightfall. R2558:5
Their kinsfolk -- Naturally enough, close relatives traveled in each
other's company. R3291:2
Luke 2:46
After three days -- One day homeward, one day returning, and on the
third day they found him. R2558:5, 4957:6
During these feasts great hospitality was exercised, especially toward
strangers from a distance. Jesus was probably entertained by one and
another of these new-found friends. R2559:2
Midst of the doctors -- Not unusual. At that time information was gained
less from books and more from oral teaching and the Doctors of the Law
were supposed to be ready to instruct all who desired information,
especially during the holy Passover week. R2558:6
The custom seems to have been for the Doctors to sit on a special
semi-circle of seats, while before them were low benches for the older
students: the younger boys sat on the ground, literally "at their feet."
R2558:6
Similarly Paul, as a youth, "sat at the feet of Gamaliel," one of the
chief Doctors of the Law in his day. (Acts 22:3) R2558:6
Both hearing them -- And not instructing the doctors. R2559:2
Asking them questions -- Not that the boy Jesus was bold, but recognized
many questions upon which he would like to have further information,
asking his questions honestly with a desire and hope of obtaining
satisfactory answers. R2558:3
His superior ability did not puff him up nor cause him to forget the
respect and deference due to the advanced years and position of the
Doctors and teachers. R1916:2, 1682:2
Meekness is especially desirable as a sling for the truth. Let the truth
be shot forth with all the force it can carry, but always with meekness;
and the question form of suggesting truth will often be found the most
forceful. R2559:3
Wondering if becoming a "son of the Law" implied that he, at that age,
should become in some measure identified with the Law as a student, or in
some other capacity. R3711:2
Inquiring of the Doctors of the Law what time would be appropriate for him
to enter upon his ministry. R5128:2, 4957:6, 3711:3, 2559:1
Doubtless a part of his inquiry was whether or not the custom of
considering a boy the "son of the Law" at twelve years of age was founded
upon anything in the Law or was merely a human tradition. R3711:3
Fresh inquiries about other types and symbols and their proper meaning.
R4957:6, 3291:3
Not satisfied with simply their opinion, he desired references to the Law
and the prophets that he himself might judge, and not rely too implicitly
upon the conclusions of others. R4957:5
The one who was asking the questions was the one who ultimately would give
correct answers to those questions in his own experiences. R3291:3
Even a child can ask questions, and in asking the questions, may suggest
wonderful and powerful answers. R3291:3
Manifesting his depth of mind, clearness of understanding and logical
reasoning. R2559:3, 2558:6
A good method for those who, by reason of sex or insufficient years, are
not permitted to teach. R3291:3
Some of the Lord's people greatly injure their influence in the Truth by
the display of too large a degree of self-assurance in speaking of the
Truth to others, especially to the learned. R2559:3
Luke 2:47
Were astonished -- Doubtless remarking that they had never had such
pointed questions asked them respecting the Law and the prophets, even by
wise men of their day and by each other. R3291:4
This little item gives us a suggestion respecting the ability of mind that
would belong to a perfect boy, and what we may expect of the ancient
worthies when they shall be resurrected to human perfection. R3291:4
His understanding -- Nevertheless we are to remember that our Lord Jesus
himself could not have understood the full meaning of the Law, shadows,
and the prophecies at that time--not until after his anointing with the
holy spirit. (1Cor. 2:14) R3291:4
His memory extended back to his previous existence with the Father. We
have no reason to doubt that he then knew what in after years he affirmed,
saying: "Before Abraham was, I am." (John 8:58) R1916:5
And answers -- They, in turn, considered it not beneath themselves to
ply the boy with questions. R3291:4
Luke 2:48
His mother said -- Joseph, the foster father of Jesus, said nothing.
R4957:6
Probably nothing was said to Jesus publicly respecting their
disappointment and their subsequent search for him. It seems to indicate
an unusual occurrence, which in turn speaks of parental obedience on the
part of Jesus. R2559:3
Son -- They did not know of his previous spiritual existence. R1682:5
Why hast thou -- We must suppose that he had been so absorbed with the
opportunities and studies that the time had passed without his
appreciating the trouble and inconvenience he was causing to others.
R3291:5
Thy father -- Joseph, having accepted Mary, accepted also her son,
Jesus, and became his foster-father. R2559:4
Luke 2:49
He said unto them -- In his childlike simplicity seeming to think his

mother and Joseph would fully realize and approve his course. R1916:3
Wist ye not -- Having been told he was specially holy and miraculously
born, he asked Mary, Did not you tell me of this thing? He was surprised
that Mary and Joseph should not understand that this was the very thing
for him to do. R5065:4
Must be about -- On the alert to fulfil his mission. He surmised that,
since at 12, Jewish boys came under the requirements of the Law Covenant,
that that was the time at which he should begin his ministry. R4957:5
My Father's business -- Evidence of zeal; the mind of Christ is the will
to do the Father's will. R1916:3, 5228:4
Somewhere about his house, his courts. R3711:4, 1916:5
"Did you not know that I would be somewhere about my Father's house?" We
prefer this free translation, in accord with the Revised Version, to the
one given in our Common Version. R3711:4
"Did you not know that I had reached the age when I am a "son of the Law,"
and that therefore certain responsibilities have come upon me in respect
to the Heavenly Father and his Word and his plan?" R2559:4
He would have in mind the Heavenly Father, just as any consecrated child
of God might think of him. From the information which he had received from
his mother, Mary, he would know of his miraculous birth and special
mission in the world. R5065:4
Though he had not yet been impressed with his previous experiences with
the Father and of the remote past. R5065:1
Jesus never acknowledged Joseph to be his father; nor did he ever
acknowledge his earthly life to be the beginning of his existence. E89
Having learned that he could not yet attend to the Father's business, he
remained quietly at home until thirty. R5847:1
Luke 2:51
Subject unto them -- As a youth he was loyal and faithful to his earthly
parents. R1114:4, 4958:1, 4809:2
Having learned that he could not assume the priestly function as a boy.
R5064:4, 5128:2
He did not humble himself before he became a man, but afterwards. R5128:2
Unto them -- All of this earthly authority was exercised by his personal
inferiors, even though they were his legal superiors. R4809:2, 1114:4
In her heart -- It was doubtless from her own lips that Luke received
his knowledge of these events. R2559:5
Luke 2:52
And Jesus -- This verse relates to his life from twelve years of age
upward to the time of his presentation to Israel in his thirtieth year as
the Lamb of God. R3711:6
Increased -- It was not a boy who was to be the Redeemer, even as it was
not a boy who had sinned. R4958:4
He kept on growing and he kept on coming up to full manhood and he did not
reach full manhood until thirty years of age. Q378:2; R5748:2
Happily for us, we are not born under the Law nor under the limitations
which hinders us from receiving the call and responding to it before 30
years of age. R2559:6
It is quite probable that the 18 years from this time to the time of his
baptism were spent in the performance of the ordinary duties of life. What
a thought this gives us with respect to our Lord's development of
patience. R2559:5
Similarly all who hear the good tidings now would best not begin to
minister the truth to others by explaining it until first they have
received of God the unction from on high. R3711:6
The perfect babe became the perfect boy; the perfect boy became the
perfect youth; the perfect youth became the perfect man. R4958:4; Q377:2
In wisdom -- He did not miraculously know all that was in the Law and
the prophets. He acquired knowledge, but with that ease, rapidity and
retentiveness with which only a perfect mind can grasp and hold it. R1916:3
From the twelfth to the thirtieth year he kept growing in wisdom and grace
of character. R4958:4, 3711:6
And stature -- Though the wisdom of twelve years surpassed that of the
sages among men, neither his mind nor his body had yet reached full
With God -- Not in the sense of becoming less sinful and more righteous,
but in the sense of becoming more developed, reaching human perfection.
R4958:4 The whole matter was pleasing to God, to whom Jesus became more
and more pleasing as he neared maturity. R5157:2
And man -- Humanity perceived that he was different from others. R5157:2
He was of winsome manner. R3711:2
In his early life of preparation for his public ministry and great
sacrifice, his virtues commanded the admiration of all who knew him.
R1916:6
Luke 3
Luke 3:1
The fifteenth year -- This is a clearly fixed date of which there can be
no reasonable doubt. Tiberius became emperor at the death of Augustus
Caesar, in the year of Rome 767, which was the year AD 14. B58
An unequivocal date. Tiberius began to reign in AD 14. The fifteenth year
of his reign would therefore be the year AD 29. B60
Those who claim that Jesus began his ministry AD 27, instead of AD 29,
claim that John's ministry began in AD 26, and are obliged to count the
reign of Tiberius Caesar two years before its admitted date. R2562:2
The only people to raise a question about it are those who, following the
inaccurate records of Josephus, want to twist Luke's plain statement into
harmony with a date two years earlier. B59; R2132:4, 1975:4
Of Tiberius Caesar -- Luke connected the beginning of John's preaching
with the reign of Tiberius for the very purpose of locating or fixing the
event chronologically. R2132:4
Luke 3:2
Annas -- Was subsequently dragged through the streets, scourged and

murdered. R3369:3
The word of God came -- When John was thirty years of age. R2562:2
In the spring, about April first, just as soon as he was of age; for God's
plans are always carried out on exact time. B60
The Lord made clear to John that the time had come for the beginning of
his ministry, not merely by an impression or surmise, but with
positiveness, as in the case of all the prophets. R2563:1
Exactly at the right time to introduce the Lord Jesus to the Jewish
nation. R3292:3
John -- The last of the prophets, none of whom was his superior, "There
hath not arisen a greater prophet than John the Baptist." (Matt. 11:11)
R4958:2, 3292:1
Six months older than his second cousin, Jesus. B58; R2562:2
John's work at the first advent foreshadowed the closing work of the
Church at the second advent. B253
In the wilderness -- Not in the sandy deserts, but more properly in the
wilds, perhaps in the "hill country," where his parents resided at the
time of his birth. R2562:5
The world is in a wilderness condition and needs the presence of the great
King to bring order out of its confusion. R4113:5
Luke 3:3
About Jordan -- Thickly settled regions. R2563:1

John sought the pools, or deep places of the river, sufficiently deep for
the purposes of immersion. R2563:1
The work of John the Baptist was merely to the Jew, and proportionately
only was he the antitype of Elijah. Jesus in the flesh and all his
faithful members in the flesh have constituted the larger antitype of John
the Baptist. R4958:5, 2563:2
John was not preaching to Christians, he was not preaching the message
that Jesus preached, he was preaching merely the demands of the Jewish
Law. OV199:2
Baptism of repentance -- It is uncertain just when immersion was
instituted as a symbol of repentance and reform. John the Baptist, it is
claimed, followed a custom for some time in vogue among Jewish reformers.
R1161:2
The remission of sins -- Those addressed were all Jews, already in
covenant relationship with God. R1421:1
Not that repentance and baptism would work for them a remission of their
sins. John preached a baptism signifying repentance unto, or preparation
for, a remission of sins. R2563:1
If repentance and immersion in water would bring the forgiveness of sins,
the "Savior and a great one" whom God had promised to Israel for so long
would have been wholly unnecessary. R2563:2
Not original sin, which could be removed only by the blood of
Christ--"without shedding of blood there is no remission" (Heb. 9:22)--but
sins against the Law Covenant. R2931:3
Luke 3:4
As it is written -- A prophecy not even yet fulfilled, but which

includes the entire work of the Millennial age. R2563:2
The voice -- Not "The Word." (John 1:1) R2409:2
Crying in the wilderness -- The Church has cried in "the wilderness" in
the sense that she has been alienated and separated from the world. R4958:6
We are not, as John, to dwell in the wilderness, to criticize and denounce
everything. We are to copy our Lord, not John the Baptist. R4978:5
Prepare ye the way -- But John's mission was not successful to his
nation, and profited only a few of the people. R2563:3
The mission of the Elijah class is to exhort to repentance and to prepare
men for the glorious setting up of the Messianic Kingdom. R2563:4, 4958:6
A highway for the coming King. R4113:5
As John the Baptist was unsuccessful, the Church in the flesh has not
succeeded in preparing men for a triumphal entry of God's Kingdom upon
earth. R2563:5
His paths straight -- Those who hear should walk circumspectly--make a
straight pathway in the desert, a highway for the coming King. R4113:5
"An highway shall be there." (Isa. 35:8) R2563:5
Luke 3:5
Valley shall be filled -- The lifting up of the poor. R4958:6

Signifying that the humble shall be lifted up out of degradation. R4113:5
Leveling up the deep crevices of character. R2563:5
Mountain and hill -- Kingdom and less autocratic government. R4990:2,
5575:4; A318; D551
Shall be brought low -- Those who have reached high positions of
influence and affluence under the reign of sin shall be humbled under the
reign of righteousness. R4113:5
Leveling down the hills of pride to the proper level of humility. R2563:5
The conditions of society will be leveled. R4990:2
Little by little coming down to the level of popular demand. D551
The city of Quito, Ecuador, the highest city in the world, has subsided 76
feet in the past 122 years, indicating that this prophecy may have a
literal fulfillment also. R1215:3
Showing that society is to be reconstructed and equality of classes
obtain. R332:4
The crooked -- The great things which belong to the present time of sin
and imperfection will all be straightened out. R4113:5
The perverse. R332:3
The rough ways -- The incongruous things will all be smoothed over.
R4113:5
Luke 3:6
All flesh -- The dead, as well as the living. R2402:4

All flesh indeed shall see the salvation of our God, and so many as will
may share therein. R2563:6
The world in general. T83
The promised deliverer is to bless not only Israel, but through Israel
"all the families of the earth." (Gen. 22:18) A58
Shall see -- Greek, optomai, recognize. R141:4
Appreciate, understand, experience. R4958:6
Recognize God's gracious love more and more. T83
Whose mission it is to seek to prepare all flesh to see the salvation of
God. R2563:5
The salvation of God -- As a result of the work of the "times of
restitution of all things." (Acts 3:23) R4113:5
Both John and the Church declare that this salvation is to be brought
through Jesus and his glorified Bride in Kingdom power. R4958:6
Luke 3:7
To the multitude -- The prepared instruments of the Lord are powerful in

his hand. The whole nation was aroused. R1916:3
Generation of vipers -- Greek, gennema, race or posterity. D603
Rejectors of the divine favor. R2301:4
Their religion was one of outward forms and ceremony merely, and not of
the heart. R2236:3
Some seemed to John to be so vile that he could not properly accept them
until they had given some proofs of reform. R2563:6
We are not to understand that such language is proper to be copied by the
Lord's people of today. "In meekness instructing those that oppose
themselves." (2 Tim. 2:25) R2563:6
Similarly, today many have "a form of godliness" (2 Tim. 3:5), a devotion
to Sectarianism. R2236:5
The wrath to come -- Not flames and torments after death, but divine
judgments upon the Jewish nation for hypocrisy, formalism, and failure to
live up to the light and privileges enjoyed. "There shall be great
distress in the land and wrath upon this people" (Luke 21:23). "Wrath to
the uttermost" (1 Thess. 2:16), which came upon the Jewish nation in the
end of the Jewish age. R2236:6, 3292:5, 2564:1
The trouble that was about to come upon that nation unless they would
receive Messiah, who had not yet been offered to them. R2564:1
There is a proper presentation of the truth, and a proper fear of God and
his retribution, which may be properly kept before the mind of the
transgressors; but this is wholly different from the terrorizing fear of
Let us present the wrath to come truthfully, not misrepresenting the
character of our God; for assuredly God will not hold them guiltless who
blaspheme his holy name. R2564:4
"Wrath to come upon them to the uttermost." (1 Thess. 2:15,16) R2301:4
Picturing the wrath to come in the end of this age upon Christendom.
R2564:5
Luke 3:8
Begin not to say -- Do not permit yourselves do be deceived into

thinking that God is under compulsion to accept such as you, and that
otherwise his word would become void. R2564:3
Within yourselves -- As nominal Christendom says to itself. R2564:2
Abraham to our father -- His hearers thought that they were God's
specially chosen, "elect" people, whose glorification had been foretold in
the prophets, and that since there were no better people in the world it
was unreasonable to suppose that God would pass by the very best. R2564:1,
1457:3
The principle opposition to the teaching of holiness, entire consecration
to the Lord, today throughout "Christendom," is the same error. R2564:2
Of these stones -- Out of some that you consider as far from the
possibilities of being Abraham's children as though they were these stones
at your feet. R2864:3
Children unto Abraham -- Who would have Abraham's loyalty of spirit.
R2245:6
As a matter of fact we know, that after the "wheat" had been separated
from the "chaff" of that nation, the Lord has been seeking from among the
Gentiles others to complete the elect number of Israelites indeed, the
true seed of Abraham. R2245:6
Luke 3:9
And now also -- Typifying the end of the Gospel Age. R2237:5
The axe -- Of divine judgment. R2237:1
The axe was about to be applied to that nation. Pruning would no longer
do. R4958:6
Now the axe is laid to the root of the trees again, a test to every one in
nominal Christendom. R2237:5
Unto the root -- Not, for the new creature, to lop off some of the
unsightly branches of the fallen disposition, but the axe of truth is to
cut down the whole tree, branches and all. R3986:4
Of the trees -- The three and a half years of our Lord's ministry to the
Jewish nation, and their final rejection by him, are represented by the
barren fig tree parable, in harmony with this statement of John (Luke
13:6-9). R2564:4
Good fruit -- The fruitage of righteousness. R2237:1
Is hewn down -- Nominal fleshly Israel was thus cut off from divine
favor. R3292:5
Cast into the fire-- The time of trouble in 69-70 AD. R2564:1, 4958:6,
3292:5, 2237:1
Picturing the great fire of trouble with which this Gospel age shall end.
R2565:1
Luke 3:11
He answereth -- If any now inquire, we answer: Practice righteousness,

truth, godliness, kindness, benevolence, justice, trust in the Lord, seek
to walk in his ways. (Zeph. 2:3) R2564:5
Let him impart -- Thus would they show their repentance from the
selfishness and hard-heartedness which evidenced them as sinful--thus
would they show a condition of heart necessary to an acceptance of Jesus.
R4959:1
Luke 3:12
Also publicans -- Being cast off from the sympathies and friendships of
the Jews in general, they were naturally less influenced by their
prejudices and hence more ready to receive the truth. R1783:3
Luke 3:13
Appointed you -- No more than that to which you are entitled by the Law.
R4959:1
Luke 3:14
The soldiers likewise -- Just such advice would be applicable to a

soldier today. OV199:2
Violence to no man -- Not that they were to prove unfaithful to their
duties as soldiers, not that they should let a man to be arrested go free
or that, if attempted to escape, he might not suffer violence at their
hands; but the responsibility was with their superior. OV199:3
The difficulty is not that the Law requires the soldier to do violent
things, but that they frequently take advantage of the situation and give
greater violence than the Law permits or sanctions. OV199:4
Violate no man's rights or interests, nor even his feelings or his
reputation. OV199:4
Thus will you show that you have repented and that you are seeking to do
the divine will, for such a course will be very different from the one to
which you have been accustomed. R4959:1
Do not violate the laws of your government. F607
Accuse any falsely -- Neither exact anything wrongfully. R4959:1
Either spite, revenge, malice or affronted dignity might lead some police
officer to exaggerate some fault and thus to falsely accuse--to accuse
more than would be proper, or to make an accusation out of whole cloth.
OV199:5
Be content -- Notwithstanding John's preaching of contentment he was
apprehended as a disturber of the peace and beheaded. R4959:1
"Godliness with contentment is great gain" (1 Tim. 6:6). Only the
unintelligent could be content without godliness. OV200:3
In addition to example, the counsel of the saints to those about them
should be in harmony with their faith. It should be of the nature of
ointment and healing balm, pointing the world to the good time coming.
A341
With your wages -- Not that those who love righteousness must take
whatever wages are offered to them, and be content. But, having contracted
for a certain period of time, being content, because it is what they had
bargained for. OV200:2
Infidelity assails such scriptures as this as being opposed to progress
and advancement, but, as in other matters: Blind unbelief is sure to err
and scan God's work in vain, God is his own interpreter, and he will make
it plain. NS63:1
Luke 3:15
The people -- Even the Gentile world, as is manifest from the visit of
the wise men from the east, possibly Persia. R1674:3; B21
In expectation -- Thirty years before his anointing as Messiah at the
beginning of his ministry. There was a corresponding expectation on the
part of many, culminating in the year AD 1844, just thirty years before AD
1874, when Christ actually came. B240; C85
Even if they were not all able to receive him in the way he came. B66
Yet, when he offered himself, they were ashamed of him and of his peculiar
following of fishermen, publicans, etc. NS630:3
They were expecting a great general, king and lawgiver combined--full of
dignity, hauteur, ambition, pride, self-will; haughty and domineering in
word and in act--their ideal of the King who would conquer the world and
make Israel the leading nation. E157
But his presentation was so different from all they had expected that
their proud hearts were ashamed of him. E157
It was the hope of every Israelite that, as a people, God would exalt
their nation under Messiah; and when the Lord came to them, it would be as
their King, to establish the long promised Kingdom of God upon the earth.
A273
The affairs of Israel were more prosperous than they had been for
centuries, and they were hoping that this return of God's favor might
culminate in the sending of the promised King for the exultation of their
nation. R3292:3
Roman dominion had brought peace, and the fame of the Jewish prophets had
gone into all the world. The sudden announcement of his birth attracted
wide attention, as it would not have done in less peaceful times. R1673:6
Now, in the end of the Gospel age, all men realize that we are in a
transition period, and the horoscope of the 20th century is full of
terrors and premonitions of great revolutionary changes. D167
Probably because of Daniel's prophecy of the seventy weeks. (Dan. 9:24) B66
Because God had promised centuries before that a holy child would be born.
R4963:2
Even the Gentile world was in expectation of the coming Messiah. R1674:3,
4714:6
And all men mused -- Just as all men are now considering whether the
nominal church has fulfilled its mission. D167
John -- Different from that of Jesus, John's mission was pre-eminently
that of a reprover and reformer. R4978:5
He were the Christ -- The establishment of the Kingdom of God was the
hope of every Israelite. A273
Had he made the claim, how readily would the people have accepted it.
R1916:4
So powerful was John's presentation of the truth. R2564:5
Luke 3:16
Baptize you with water -- Not with the holy Spirit. R1916:6
One mightier than I -- Assuring them he was so inferior to the Messiah.
R2564:5, 4113:6
I am not worthy -- It was this complete self-abnegation and singleness
of purpose to accomplish the will of God that constituted John's moral
greatness. R1916:2 We who antitype him may also feel very humble in
respect to all of our privileges in connection with the announcement of
the glorious Kingdom. Any other attitude would be unworthy of us as his
representatives and ambassadors. R4113:6
He shall baptize you -- Some of them (the few) with holy Spirit, the
remainder (the mass) with the fire of judgment. R2564:6
With the Holy Ghost -- The "Israelites indeed" were gathered into the
garner of the Christian Church, and baptized with the holy Spirit at
Pentecost. B233; E290, 314; R5443:2, 4959:4, 2927:2
And with fire -- The remainder of the Jewish nation, who "knew not the
time of their visitation" (Matt. 19:44), were burned as "chaff" (Luke
3:17) in a great time of trouble which overthrew their nation. R5443:2,
2090:5, 1916:6
After the holy Spirit had searched, sifted and winnowed out of the Jewish
dispensation all of the true wheat, gathering it into the garner of the
Gospel (spirit) dispensation, then the fire came upon the chaff. R2927:2
The fire of God's anger, wrath to the uttermost. (1 Thess. 2:16) R4959:4;
F445
The fire of trouble on all others during the 36-1/2 years following their
rejection. R2564:6, 5443:2, 4959:4, 2927:2; B233
Culminating in the destruction of the Jewish polity in the year 70 AD.
E290; R4959:4, 1916:6
There will come a great time of trouble, symbolically a time of fire, upon
the world, and especially upon rejected Babylon, even as similar fiery
vengeance came upon Israel after the flesh. R2746:6
Luke 3:17
Fan is in his hand -- Messiah was about to make a separation between the
true wheat and the chaff class. R4594:3, 4113:1
Thoroughly purge -- The great separating work of the Jewish harvest.
R1917:1, 2564:6; B260
Gather the wheat -- Only the true Israelites. C149; B233; R5443:2,
4594:3, 2245:6, 273:6
By begetting them of the holy Spirit at Pentecost. R4959:4
All the true wheat, we may be sure; not a solitary grain was lost. R2564:6
The first members of the Gospel Church. R2564:6
A small proportion of the whole. B205; R1916:6
A larger fulfillment--world-wide. In the end of this age all the wheat
class are to be gathered into the heavenly garner by the change of the
first resurrection. R4959:4
Into his garner -- A place of safety, a higher dispensation. R2564:6
The Christian Church. B233; C149; R5443:2
Of the Gospel age. R2927:2, 2090:4, 1917:1
The chaff -- The refuse part of that church and nation. R273:6
Devoid of the real wheat principle within. C150
The balance of the nation, the refuse. B233; C149; R4594:3, 273:6
He will burn -- As the chaff class of the Jewish nation was consumed in
the close of that harvest, so the tare class will be consumed in this
harvest. The chaff ceased from all pretension to divine favor as the
triumphant Kingdom of God. C148
Not physically destroy (though of course many lives were lost in their
trouble), but were cut off from all Kingdom favors in which previously
they trusted and boasted; and so also in the parallel or counterpart. C149
In the time of trouble coming all others than the true Church will be cut
off from association with the Church and from all opportunity of
membership in it. As tares they will be burned, reduced to the level of
the rest of humanity. R4959:4
Fire unquenchable -- The great fire of religious and political
contention which destroyed the Jewish nation. B233; C148; R5443:2, 5363:3,
4594:3, 2564:6
A time of trouble which nothing could stop or hinder. Even the Roman
Emperor was desirous of preserving the nation and establishing order
there. The Roman army went, not to destroy them, but to establish peace in
their midst. But the Lord declared that it should do its work to the full;
and it did. R2564:6, 273:6; A229
Represented by figure f on the Chart of the Ages. A229; R273:6F196
Likewise the great fire of trouble with which this Gospel age shall end
will completely consume earthly governments and Churchianity in a fire of
anarchy. Nothing shall quench that fire, or hinder that utter destruction
of present systems. R2565:1
Luke 3:19
But Herod -- Was living in adultery. R2621:4; 557:6

Representing the kings of the earth. B261
Reproved by him -- Perhaps John acted imprudently and exceeded his duty.
R3326:2
We should expect that, as John's reproving of Herod for having an unlawful
wife led to his imprisonment, so here, the reproving of the church and the
world for their unlawful union, provokes the displeasure of both and leads
to the ostracizing (beheading) of the faithful reprovers. R557:6; 2621:4
For Herodias -- Representing the unfaithful nominal church. B261
For all the evils -- As a result of this typical union of church and
State, contrary to Scripture. B261
Luke 3:20
Shut up John -- Representing the Church in this harvest time. B261

Which surprised and stunned the people. R4138:6
After he had preached about a year. R3325:2
In prison -- Typifying the coming restraint of the Church's liberties
because of faithfulness in opposing and condemning error. B261
Where he remained about a year before execution. R3325:2
Luke 3:21
That Jesus also -- Having reached 30 years of age, manhood according to

the Law, and therefore the right time to consecrate himself as a man. A179
With the baptism of Christ the ordinance received a new signification of
entire consecration to God. In this new view, some of the Jewish converts
were baptized again. R1917:4, 1161:2
Being baptized -- The Royal Priesthood began with the anointing of
Jesus, the High Priest, at baptism. T27
This is the Spirit dispensation; hence, it is proper to say that the
Gospel age began with the anointing of Jesus at the time of his baptism.
A224
Not because he or any other Jew was commanded to do so, but as a fitting
symbol of his consecration even unto death, and his faith in Jehovah's
power to raise him out of death. R1161:2; A179
He sacrificed all the blessings and favors which were his under the Law
Covenant. R5090:1
And praying -- We should pray before believers and unbelievers. R2251:6,
3698:5, 2252:1
Literally, rent asunder. R4970:1
He began to understand the higher, spiritual things. R5080:6, 5157:5,
5128:5
His brain was impressed with the recollections of his pre-human condition.
R5157:5, 2565:5
Luke 3:22
The Holy Ghost descended -- He received the divine adoption and the
spirit without measure. (John 3:34) R182:3
Thus beginning the Gospel age or Spirit dispensation. A224; R273:1
In a bodily shape -- A manifestation representing the invisible. E212
Like a dove -- Emblematic of peace and purity, representing the fullness
of Jehovah's spirit of love in Jesus. E212
Not violently like lightning, but gently like a dove. R3296:6
Upon him -- Jesus made the covenant to lay down his humanity as our
ransom. R182:3
Giving him the "earnest of his inheritance" (Eph. 1:14), of the divine
nature. A179
Anointing him. Jesus was not the Messiah, the Christ, until this anointing
took place. B66; T27, 37
Thou art my beloved -- The witness of his relationship came at once.
R182:3
Luke 3:23
Began to be -- Note his promptness to engage in his Heavenly Father's

business at the very earliest moment. R3291:5, 4427:2
About thirty -- No Levite was permitted to engage in the work of the
tabernacle under thirty. (See Num. 4:3.) So Christ did not begin the work
of the antitypical tabernacle (the work of atonement) until he was thirty.
R1161:2; B58
It was necessary that Jesus conform to the Law of Moses, given by God to
the Jews; for Jesus as a man was a Jew, born under the Law and subject,
therefore, to its every feature. R5536:2
The fact that our Lord Jesus waited until he was thirty years of age
before making his special consecration and receiving his ordination and
commission to preach does not mean that his followers should wait until
they are thirty before they begin to preach. R5536:3
Happily for us we are not bound under the Law nor under the limitations
which hinder us from receiving the call and responding to it before thirty
years of age. R2559:6, 3291:5
Manhood according to the Law; in condition to be the sin-offering. R444:6,
5064:2, 4535:6, 4427:2
Able to begin the work of atonement of the antitypical tabernacle. R1161:2
When he emerged from obscurity and began to declare his mission. R1247:3
We may be sure he presented himself in sacrifice to the Lord at the very
earliest possible moment. R4427:2, 3291:5
As was supposed -- Some suppose the same thing now, reminding us of
those Pharisees who sarcastically said, "We have not been born of
fornication; we have one Father, God." (John 8:41) R443:3*
The son of Joseph -- Luke shows the genealogy of Mary, by which our Lord
was actually related, according to the flesh, to our race and to the royal
family of David, through the line of Nathan. R2555:6; E129; Q791:2
A good illustration of the principle of inherited royalty through a mother
is furnished in the heir-apparent to the throne of Great Britain--the
Prince of Wales; not through his father, but through his mother, the
present queen. R453:1
Legal father of Jesus, from Solomon's line. R2060:4
The son of Heli -- The son of Eli, Mary's father, by marriage, or
legally; or, as we would say, on-in-law of Eli. By birth, Joseph was the son
of Jacob, as stated in Matt. 1:16. E129; Q791:2
A custom of that day was to reckon the genealogy through the wife's
ancestry and treat her husband as in her stead, the son of her father. We
would call such a son-in-law. Here Joseph is called the son of Heli,
Mary's father, who was the son of Nathan the son of David. R453:2; E129
The necessity of thoroughly establishing the pedigree was the more
important, since of this tribe (Gen. 49:10) was to come the ruling King of
Israel, as well as the promised Messiah, hence the minutiae of detail not
given in other instances. (Gen. 39) A42; HG532:4
Luke 3:24
The son of Matthat -- Luke gives 42 generations, while Matthew gives 27.
The difference need not be considered as remarkable. It would be
remarkable had they been the same. Q791:2
Luke 3:31
Of Nathan -- Mary's ancestor. Only the legal heirship came through

Solomon, through his descendant Joseph, the legal father of Jesus. R2060:4
While Joseph came of the royal line, as Matthew testifies, Mary came of
the obscure one, beginning with Nathan. R468:4*
Luke 3:38
Son of Adam -- In the male of the human species has resided the power to
communicate the spark of life, or living seed, to progeny. E99
The son of God -- Adam's form or organism was of and from earth (which
therefore served as his mother); but his spark of life, which constituted
him a man, came from God (who thus was his Father or life-giver). E99,
110; R776:5
Before Adam fell he was a son of God. He had the Spirit of God, in the
sense of having the right spirit, disposition, will, intention. (Eph. 2:3)
R5582:3, 1717:2, 219:4; A225; E108; F40; T84
He was very good--morally, intellectually and physically--a likeness which
God was not ashamed to own and to call his son. R1609:5, 1264:3, 1266:2;
E407
From the moment of sin onward, Adam was not recognized as a son of God.
R1005:2, 866:1; E108; SM615:1
The same Creator who, before his creation, called Adam his son, declares
that Adam and we, his children, became "children of wrath" and passed
under condemnation because of sin. F40
As God's creation. God was his Life-giver, Creator, Producer, or Father.
R1005:2
God made a copy, an image of himself, a manifestation of himself in flesh.
R1266:2
He was God's son, as well as his image. R1264:3
"If a son, then an heir" (Rom. 8:17), of the vast domain of earth, which
he was to subdue and take possession of as his posterity would increase
and require it. R1266:2
Every member of the human family is a human brother to every other human
being. All are children of the one father, Adam, a son of God. D310
While Adam's transgression was a wilful one, it did not mean that Adam
preferred to be "a child of the devil." R2707:1
From the time that sin entered the world through Adam's disobedience, God
recognized none of the human family as his sons until Jesus came and died.
R5859:1, 2843:5, 1005:1; CR498:6
Adam, before he sinned, "was very good." (Gen. 1:31) R1609:3, 1717:2,
816:3, 382:1, 364:1, 273:2
A "sheep" that wandered from the fold. R2707:1
God's energy operating on spirit substances produced angels; on earthly
substances, man. E105
All Adam's children are equally God's beneficiaries and are entitled to
sympathy and aid in proportion to the degree of their impairment. D311
By our adoption into the divine family, God becomes our Father. R182:3
"As many as received him, to them gave he power [liberty] to become the
sons of God" (John 1:12). "Beloved, now are we the sons of God" (1 John
3:2). R1005:5
Only those who have the right spirit, disposition, will or intention, can
keep the divine law, and only those who are in perfect harmony with God
will he recognize as sons. R5582:3
All who, at the end of the Kingdom, will have been restored to perfection
will be recognized as sons of God, in the same sense that Adam was a son
of God--human sons. R2607:2, 655:4, 382:1, 376:4
All who accept of Christ as their Redeemer are reckonedly on the plane of
human perfection (N on the Chart of the Ages). All on this plane God calls
sons--human sons, reckoned as restored to primitive purity. In consequence
they have fellowship or communion with God. A225
The Church can now, being "justified from all things" (Acts 13:39), call
God Father, as Adam did before sin, and be recognized by him as human
sons. R364:1, 209:4
The Church is invited to be sons of God on a higher plane of sonship;
higher than the angelic sons, as heirs of God, joint-heirs with the Logos,
partakers with him of the divine nature. R2409:4
The father does not determine the nature. Jehovah, of the divine nature,
has begotten sons of the same, as well as other natures--angelic (Job
2:1); human (Luke 3:38), and "new creatures," who shall be of his own
divine nature. (2 Pet. 1:4) E104; R777:4, 354:5
God is a Father of his creatures on different planes. But there is no
mother on either plane. As the Creator of angels and men, he is their
Father, and they his sons, though on different planes. R315:3, 777:4,
376:4, 354:5
Freedom from death and trouble is the glorious liberty common to sons of
God on whatever plane of being they may be, whether sons of the human
nature, the angelic nature (Job 38:7), or sons of the divine nature (1
John 3:2; 2 Pet. 1:4). R816:3; T84
Luke 4
Luke 4:1
And Jesus -- Not God, for "God tempteth not, neither is tempted of any."
(James 1:13) R370:2
Being full -- "God gave not the spirit by measure unto him." (John 3:34)
T37; R72:5
Of the holy Ghost -- The holy Spirit, from his baptism, but not before.
A224
The zeal to accomplish his appointed mission. R1688:1
This new power is what Satan wanted him to use for the flesh, but it was
not given for that purpose. R681:3
Returned from Jordan -- Notice that special trials immediately followed
Led by the Spirit -- The Gospel age is the Spirit dispensation; hence it
is proper to say that it began with the anointing of Jesus, "by the Holy
Ghost, and with power." (Acts 10:38) A224; R273:1
His earnest desire to know fully and completely the will of the Father.
R4641:5, 4970:2; CR95:6
We should never voluntarily go into temptation, but knowing our own
imperfection, seek to avoid it. R3715:6
His own spirit, his new mind. Thus it is our new minds, the result of our
full consecration, that lead us into temptations, trials and difficulties.
R3716:1, 4970:2, 4641:5; CR95:6
Into the wilderness -- For study and meditation relative to the great
work to which he had just consecrated himself, represented in his baptism.
R680:1
Away from every distracting person or thing, that he might study the Word
treasured in his perfect memory, now fully intelligible by the power of
the Spirit. "The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit." (1
Cor. 2:14) R3297:3, 3716:4, 1688:2, 680:1
Luke 4:2
Being forty days -- Doubtless the entire period was spent in prayer and
contemplation of the prophecies, including those which showed that he
would be lifted up as the serpent in the wilderness (Num. 21:8, 9); be
despised and rejected of men, and led as a lamb to the slaughter (Isa.
53:3, 7). He found it necessary, before attempting to serve God, to Study
to show himself approved. (2 Tim. 2:15) R3716:5, 3717:1
While carefully studying the Law, he endured a most subtle and severe
conflict with the powers of darkness. R1917:2
Tempted -- Along the lines of selfishness. R3715:3
He was not tempted like the world--to godlessness, vice and criminality.
R1689:4, 4970:3
Of the devil -- Greek, diabolus. The word always appears in the singular
and evidently refers to Satan. R3716:1
Afterward hungered -- When he was weak from fasting and was overwhelmed
with the importance and cost of the covenant he had made, the Adversary
appeared--as a tempter. R4970:2
Up to this time his perfect mind was so absorbed in his great theme that
he probably neither ate nor slept. R3716:6, 1689:2
Shipwrecked sailors have been exonerated for cannibalism when they have
been without food much less than 40 days. In the siege of Jerusalem
mothers ate their own children. R2243:4
The sin is not in being tempted, but in yielding to temptation. R1689:5
Luke 4:3
And the devil -- Choosing the time when his overtaxed human powers
sought refreshment and recuperation. R3717:2
Appearing not as an enemy and a fiend, but as a friend. R4970:3
Said unto him -- Probably not personally, but by suggestion;
representing himself as an "angel of light." (2 Cor. 11:14) R3717:3, 1688:1
Be made bread -- Use your consecrated talents and powers, and your
office as God's children and representatives, in such a manner as to
further your "bread and butter" interests. R681:3, 4970:6, 3717:6; E111,
123
For a man to use any or all of his powers to satisfy hunger would
certainly, under normal circumstances, be no sin. But the circumstances
were peculiar--Jesus had just consecrated himself as a man, and had
received special powers in connection with the holy Spirit. R681:3
Illustrating our temptations to preach for worldly applause, wealth and
social position, and to seek the healing of our bodies, which we have
consecrated to death in God's service. R3717:6, 4970:6, 1689:2
Luke 4:4
Jesus answered -- Ignoring all suggestions contrary to God's plan.

R1125:5
It is written -- Though tempted in all points like as we are, he ignored
his own will and all suggestions from others contrary to God's plan, and
obeyed God implicitly. Therein lay the secret of his success. HG292:6
Our Lord's success was by being rightly exercised by his knowledge of God;
as it is written: "By his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify
many," while bearing their iniquities. (Isa. 53:11) R1125:5
Our Lord's reply to temptation; the sure defense of the true child of God.
F200; R1688:4
Live by bread alone -- Refusing to use divine power for his personal
comfort. F636, 650
My eternal life is not dependent upon the maintenance of this physical
body. R4970:4
Our meat and drink should be to do the will of God. (John 4:34) R1689:3
I am not afraid of starving, God has more ways and means of sustaining my
life than food. R681:4
Another thought, especially for the sisters: In your daily life remember
that "man shall not live by bread alone," and, therefore, that all your
energies should not be spent in merely gratifying the palate. (Luke
10:40-42) R681:4
Word of God -- The Scriptures do claim to be the Word of God, though
their authority by no means depends upon the finding of that expression in
the Scriptures. R1584:3
My hope is in God and in his promise. R4970:4
Not merely the milk of the Word. R3622:2
Every admonition, encouragement and promise is necessary for those now
called. R3060:4
Luke 4:5
The devil -- Satan, "the prince of this world" (John 14:30), came to our
Lord just as he comes to his followers--as an angel of light, and with his
real character and purposes cloaked. R1688:1
Again posing as a friend. R3719:3
Taking him up -- Mentally, not physically. R3719:2, 3299:1
From no mountain on earth could all the kingdoms of the world be seen.
R4970:5, 3719:2, 3299:1
An high mountain -- Kingdom; Satan's own dominion over the world.
R1688:6, 4970:5, 3719:2
All the kingdoms -- Christ clearly understood that at some time he was
to have authority over these kingdoms, but probably he did not yet see how
or when, hence the peculiar force of this temptation. R3299:1-3
Luke 4:6
The devil -- He is the instigator; the natural and often legitimate

desires of the flesh are the mediums through which his temptations are
presented. R1689:5
Said -- Some erroneously regard this as a sham temptation; that he
offered what he did not possess. R680:2
Will I give thee -- Satan's dominion has both an invisible spiritual and
a visible human phase. A251
Saying, Let us unite to bring humanity out of sin and death. Thus you will
attain your hopes without suffering. R4970:5
Satan says: "Serve God, bless mankind, and spread the Gospel; but do it my
way." R681:5
Look well to it that no element of worldly ambition or worldly policy
ensnare your feet and allure you from the narrow way. R2163:2
Delivered unto me -- You realize that I am the prince of this world.
R4970:5
Your church must first of all recognize these governments of mine, and
must call them Christian governments, no matter how un-Christlike may be
their rulers and laws. R680:6
To whomsoever I will I give it -- Satan, faithful to his promise,
exalted the nominal church. R680:6
Luke 4:7
Worship me -- The thought is not of adoration and prayer, but of

service, to follow Satan's directions. R680:3
Cooperate with me for the world's uplift. E113; R680:4
As does the nominal church when it seeks to increase its membership by
resorting to worldly forms, customs, fairs, games, entertainments, etc.
R3719:5
When Papacy did this, Satan was true to his promise. B293
The Adversary tempts the Lord's followers to compromise with the spirit
and methods of the world, by church federations, etc. R4970:6, 3719:5
This same temptation beset the infant Church during the first five
centuries, and finally was successful. Satan, faithful to his promise,
exalted the nominal church, resulting in the placing over the world the
Church of Rome as the head of both civil and ecclesiastical government.
R680:5
Satan presented the same temptation to the Reformers, and again with
success. R680:6
To us the same temptation is one of the most difficult to
withstand--associate yourselves with some large and influential
organization. Thus your influence among men will be greater and more good
will be accomplished. R681:1
Others are tempted to think that they can serve God's cause and truth best
by spending their best energies and talents in acquiring wealth, to be
spent in spreading the Gospel. R681:2
Luke 4:8
Behind me, Satan -- Adversary, opposing spirit. F611

I will not serve you nor cooperate with you in any sense of the word.
R4970:6, 3299:4; E74
The loyalty of the Lord's heart was shown. Q184:T
He did not say, Let us talk it over and discuss it a little. Q184:T
It is written -- This was his reply to temptation. R1688:4
God, and him only -- As the great Supreme Ruler. E74
But reverence of others, if not rivals of Jehovah, is entirely proper. E73
Jesus could not accept any suggestion out of harmony with God's plan.
R1689:1
All of Israel's difficulties and failures to attain the blessings that
were before them were because they did not sufficiently sanctify the Lord
God in their hearts and let him be their only fear and only dread. R3468:1
Similarly, nominal spiritual Israel has neglected putting the Lord first
and has been disposed to forget the Lord and to affiliate with the world,
to seek worldly favor and cooperation. R3468:4
Shalt thou serve -- Jesus escaped this temptation, not by arguing the
reasonableness of God's plan, but by simply relying on the fact that under
all circumstances it was right to obey God, and wrong to disobey. R680:5
He ignored his own will, and all suggestions from others contrary to God's
plan, and obeyed God implicitly. R1125:5
Luke 4:9
To Jerusalem -- Mentally, not physically. R3718:2, 4970:4

On a pinnacle -- The roof of the southern wing. R3718:2 Probably the
central part of the royal portico, which was very high and overlooked a
deep ravine. Josephus says 100 cubits high over a 400 cubit valley. R681:4
Overlooking the valley of Gehenna. R3718:2, 3298:2
About 600 feet above the bottom of the valley. R3298:2, 681:4
And said unto him -- Still posing as a friend, an angel of light. R3718:3
Cast thyself down -- Recklessly expose yourself in proof of mission,
thus drawing the immediate attention of all Israel to the fact that you
are the Messiah. E111; R4970:4
This would have been reckless presumption and daring, and not the proper
faith in God. R681:5
The Adversary tempts the Lord's followers by suggesting some wild, foolish
way of capturing the world for God. R4970:6
"A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign" (Matt. 16:4),
such as the laying on of hands, the gift of tongues, physical healing,
peculiar dress, robes, mitres, relics of saints, etc. R3718:5
Illustrating additionally our temptations to go into debt without knowing
how the debt can be paid, or to recklessly expose ourselves to any danger,
moral, financial, physical or spiritual, expecting miraculous deliverance.
R2244:3,2
We not only need the Bible, but we also need the guidance of the holy
Spirit to apply the Word. R3719:1, 3298:3, 681:5
It is this temptation which sometimes leads men to call upon God loudly,
to come down in power and convert fifty sinners here this evening. R681:5
Luke 4:10
It is written -- The Adversary can use Scripture, and does use it often
in the presentation of error. R681:5, 3718:6, 288:1
Luke 4:11
Bear thee up -- Quotation from Psa. 91:12. R4970:4

Foot -- Feet or last part of the Body of Christ. R288:1, 3719:1, 3298:4,
757:6, 681:5
This prophecy refers to the Christ as a whole; its personal application
was rejected by Jesus; but when we apply the reference "foot" to the feet,
or last part of the body of Christ, all is harmonious. R757:6, 681:6, 288:1
"The feet of him" have been privileged to say "unto Zion, Thy God
reigneth." (Isa. 52:7) R288:5, 757:3
Possibly our Lord himself did not at this time know the correction of this
Scripture; that the "feet" refer to the last members of the Body of
Christ, and that he himself was to be the "stone" of stumbling and rock of
offence to both the houses of Israel. (Isa. 8:14) R3298:3,4
Against a stone -- The stone referred to, we understand, is the same as
that of Isa. 8:14--that Jesus is the stone of stumbling. R757:6, 681:6
Luke 4:12
Jesus answering -- Seemingly conflicting Scriptures could be harmonized

by examining underlying principles. R3298:3
Ignoring all suggestions contrary to God's plan. R1125:5, 3718:4
It is said -- Its personal application by Satan was rejected by Jesus as
a misapplication of Scripture. R288:1, 757:6
Not tempt the Lord -- Try the Lord. R681:4
By doing things which are directly contrary to the laws of nature, which
would require miraculous intervention to save you. R3718:4, 4970:5, 1688:4
The Church is tempted as Jesus was: to a deceitful handling of the Word of
God, to ambitious efforts to gain present power and advantage, to take the
sacrifice off the altar. R1689:4
Luke 4:13
Departed from him -- The sword of the Spirit did its work; Satan left in
disgust. R1689:5; CR95:6
"Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." (James 4:7) R1689:5
Luke 4:14
Jesus returned -- Remembering the proverb, "A prophet has no honor in

his own country," our Lord did not begin his ministry in Nazareth, but in
Judea. The people of Nazareth heard of his works and words. This would
tend to prepare them to receive Messiah and his message, offsetting the
familiarity which so frequently breeds contempt. R2579:1
Our Lord began his ministry in Judea, and is supposed to have spent a year
there before going to Galilee. R3300:1
Power of the spirit -- The people "were astonished at his doctrine, for
his word was with power." (Luke 4:32) R1917:2, 1921:1
"God gave not the spirit by measure unto him." (John 3:34) R1917:1
The secret of all power in the work of the Lord. Learning, worldly wisdom
or fluency of speech are no substitutes. No preaching, no teaching is of
value, except it be in the power of the holy Spirit. R1917:1
Jesus obtained this power in the same way his followers may obtain it;
viz., by entire consecration to God, faithfulness to that consecration,
and by communion with him in prayer, and meditation upon his Word. R1917:2
The preacher or teacher acceptable to God must, like his Lord, be first
sincerely and fully consecrated to God. Then, when tried and tempted, he
must prove his faithfulness to that consecration. R1917:3
Fame of him -- Because of his miracles and teaching. R1735:3
As Messiah, with power and authority. R1743:1
Tending to his immediate advancement to the kingly office. R1754:3
Attracting one class and repelling another. R3153:2, 356:5
As his fame increased, the opposition became more and more pronounced,
especially from the chief priests, scribes and Pharisees, as they were
brought into competition and unfavorable comparison with him as public
teachers. R1735:3
Luke 4:15
Taught in their synagogues -- The Lord and the apostles could go into
the synagogues and teach the people for a time, but they were soon
hindered. R986:5
Today the clergy keep out all who would feed the sheep "meat in due
season" (Matt. 24:45); hence the sheep are called out of Babylon. R986:6
Jairus, the ruler of the synagogue in Capernaum, our Lord's home city,
sometimes called upon him to read the Sabbath lesson. R4588:3
Glorified of all -- Honored. R1069:3
So great was the attention which his teaching and works attracted that
Pharisees and doctors of the Law came out of every town of Galilee, Judea
and Jerusalem to hear and to see. R1921:2
On more than one occasion it appeared as though the people would take him
by force to make him a king; but our Lord avoided the matter and withdrew
himself and discouraged the efforts. NS629:3
As you enter a field mixed with tares, being filled with the Spirit, you
may be received and welcomed, as was Jesus before the truth began to cut.
R356:4
Luke 4:16
He came to Nazareth -- Even when he did go to his home province he chose

to go to Capernaum before going to his native city, Nazareth. R3300:2
The beginning of the second year of his ministry. R3300:1
A prophet is generally less esteemed at home than abroad. R3300:2
The people of Nazareth were proud of Jesus as the representative of their
city, and hoped that he would perform great miracles there. R3301:6
Had been brought up -- From about three years of age to 30. R3300:2
As his custom was -- Not only to attend the synagogue meetings every
Sabbath, but to be the reader for the congregation. R3300:3
Implying an education far beyond that of the majority of his day. R2579:1
"Forsake not the assembling of yourselves." (Heb. 10:25) R2579:2
Into the synagogue -- Our Lord's example in seeking to associate as far
as possible with the most religious people of his day, and his willingness
to take part in the public services, are a lesson to his people
everywhere. R2579:2
The synagogue more nearly resembled present-day Bible classes, where the
Scriptures are read and freely discussed, a method still appropriate to
the Lord's people and still beneficial for the elucidation of truth.
R3300:3
A certain amount of pride in their fellow-townsman had been awakened, and
we may be sure that there was a large attendance on the first Sabbath day
after our Lord's arrival in Nazareth. R3300:2
For to read -- Quite probably the passage was the stated Scripture
lesson for that day. R2579:2
Luke 4:17
Delivered unto him -- He had been recognized as one of the few able to
read, and had done the congregational reading of the Holy Scriptures.
R5068:1
The prophet Esaias -- The Jews had a certain order in which the
Scriptures were read in the synagogue, and apparently the book of Isaiah
was the appropriate one for this occasion. R3300:3
Where it was written -- A Greek translation of Isaiah 61. R2579:2
Luke 4:18
Spirit of the Lord -- Not the "ghost" nor a person in any sense. E169
There is no ground for thinking of the holy Spirit as another God. Quite
to the contrary, it was the Father's Spirit that was communicated to our
Lord Jesus. E169
Is upon me -- Since the time of my baptism. A224; R273:1
Because -- The anointing is for the very purpose of fitting those so
anointed, whether male or female, to preach the good tidings. Therefore
all the anointed, male or female, Jew or Greek, bond or free, are anointed
to preach. R1549:1
He hath anointed -- At 30 years of age. R240:1
The holy Spirit had come upon the Lord Jesus about a year before, after
his consecration at Jordan. It constituted his anointing. R3300:5
The value of the anointing was that by it the Father gave witness that the
sacrifice was accepted; it was the seal or evidence to him that the Father
would give him the promised divine nature when he had actually given his
life. R240:4
Our Lord told how he was ordained to be a preacher; and the Scriptures
tell us we are to walk in his steps. All who have received the ordination
of God have the authority to preach according to their opportunities and
abilities. R5807:3
From the time of Jesus' baptism God dwelt in him in a peculiar manner; as
the Apostle John says of the Church, "God dwelleth in us and we in God."
(1 John 4:16) R5291:6
The holy anointing oil was poured upon the head of Aaron, but ran down
even unto the skirts of his garments, thus anointing in the figure, each
member of his body. R3301:2, 72:3; F132; T37
As this ordination came upon Jesus, it later came upon the disciples at
Pentecost; and all down the Gospel age it has come upon the followers of
Christ, anointing them to preach the Gospel. Q514:3
Although this anointing did not come directly upon them until Pentecost,
they had previously had a foretaste of it in that the Lord conferred upon
them a share of his holy Spirit, power, when he sent them out to preach.
F212
See what was the purpose of his anointing, and learn therefrom the purpose
of your own anointing under him. R942:4
None but the anointed body of Christ are commissioned to preach the good
tidings, and every member of that body is so commissioned, irrespective of
human distinctions of "clergy" and "laity"; and whosoever does not fulfill
this mission is unfaithful to his commission. R2580:5
All of those called of God to preach have the anointing of the holy Spirit
of God as their necessary preparation for this service. Without this
anointing they are as sounding brass and tinkling cymbals, having no
commission from God to declare his truth. R2057:3, 241:2
They could teach the people in the synagogue, for a time, but as they
shunned not to declare the whole counsel of God, they soon found little,
and finally, no opportunity to teach the people in the synagogue. R986:5
The commission of the apostles was, in the main, the same as the
commission of the Lord and of the whole Church. R1521:5
This commission, through the Prophet Isaiah, is the only divinely
authorized commission that was ever given to any man to preach the Gospel.
No man should be regarded by the saints as a minister of the Gospel, or
received or heard as such, who cannot claim this commission. R1715:2
The Apostle John says that "the anointing which we have received of him
abideth in us." (1 John 2:27) R5536:6, 241:2
The anointing of the Church is for a work yet future. R5537:1, 3301:2
Speaking of the ultimate result of his work. As we gladly accept the
divine arrangement, so we must also accept the divine times and seasons,
and realize that they are wisely ordained. R2098:5
With God, human ordination counts for nothing. In human ordination, each
denomination qualifies its own ministers. But the ordained ministers of
God are servants of God and not of error. R5537:2
Our Lord's authority to preach did not come from the Jewish ecclesiastics.
"The anointing which ye have received abideth in you." (1 John 2:27)
R1917:5 Every member of the anointed Body of Christ will be a preacher of
the Gospel. R942:4
Me -- To all appearance the prophet Isaiah was the person meant, yet
when Jesus here points out its fulfillment in himself, we see that in him
its conditions were fully met. R436:2, 240:1 While this prophecy was
primarily fulfilled in Jesus and applied especially to him, we understand
also that it applies to the members of Christ. R5536:5
Intimating that nobody is to speak in God's name except those who have
been divinely commissioned to do so. R5537:2
As the unleavened wafers of fine floor were anointed with oil in Lev. 2:1.
R84:3
To preach -- The commission was one of service--they were to serve one
another, to serve the Lord, and to lay down their lives for the brethren.
These services were to be rendered especially in connection with the
promulgation of the Gospel. F212
We are to distinguish between the preaching of the Gospel and the good
tidings promised, which are to come to pass in due time. R2579:6
After this preaching of the Gospel shall have been given and shall have
accomplished its purpose and intention, then will follow the glorious
actualities referred to in it. R2580:1
Every member of the Body, however humble or obscure, being "anointed to
preach," is failing in his mission if he does not preach. R1917:5
Preaching is not always public declaration. Every influence that we can
send out is preaching the Gospel. R1917:5
Tract distribution, personal visits, personal letters and personal
conversation (wise, discreet and backed by noble and consistent Christian
character) are effective means. In these various ways all can preach the
Gospel. R1891:2, 241:3
Some can do several of these things, some can do all of them, and all can
and should preach by their life and customs the power of the good news to
transform, for we are all living epistles, known and read of all men. (2
Cor. 3:2) R241:4
Preaching a good message rather than raising a great army. R3300:6
The gospel -- Jesus preached the "good news" in two parts: first, to the
world, a restitution of all things, illustrated by his miracles; second,
the great prize obtainable by those who will now walk in the "narrow way,"
illustrated in his own person. R241:2
The news was so new to them and so good that the Pharisees and religious
leaders could not believe it to be true. R241:3
To the poor -- Not the literally poor any more than the literally
broken-hearted, but the "poor in spirit," the humble minded, who are also
the sympathetic, the tender, the heart-broken, as in contrast with the
hard-hearted. R2580:1
To all who were meek enough to receive it by faith from the humble and
unpretentious Nazarene. R1714:3
The meek of the earth, who gladly receive the truth and constitute the
Church of God. R931:6
To the meek, not to the rebellious or indifferent; these are to be dealt
with by and by. R5537:2
Not wasting time and effort upon those whom they find to be mentally "rich
and increased in goods, and feeling that they have need of nothing." (Rev.
3:17) R2580:2
Rather than rallying round himself the rich, wise and proud. R3300:6
"I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me." (John
17:9) R798:6
The meek, not the proud, hard-hearted, profane. E488; R3300:6, 2821:4,
2310:5, 798:6
The meek alone can or shall see Present Truth. E90
"The poor have the gospel preached to them." (Matt. 11:5) R5145:1
He hath sent me -- Jesus merely proclaimed these things, with a few
examples of healing, etc.; the actual blessings belong to the Messianic
Kingdom time. R5068:5
To heal -- Greek, iaomai, meaning to heal; also has the significance of
saved, as in Matt. 13:15. R4099:3
As in "Pray for one another that ye may be healed." (James 5:16) R4099:3
The broken-hearted -- Broken by the trials, difficulties, perplexities
and adversities of the present life. R2580:2
The anointed ones are not to spend their time endeavoring to break the
hard hearts of the worldly, for this is not part of their commission.
R2580:2, 3436:1, 3301:2, 2965:6, 2821:4
They had expected their deliverer would be the one who would cause the
loss of many lives and the breaking of many hearts with sorrow and
trouble. R3300:6
How his words ought to have appealed to all that were broken-hearted! The
difficulty probably was that they were hard-hearted. R5608:4
To tell those in trouble that by and by the Kingdom would bring order,
peace and joy out of present confusion and trouble. R1714:3
Pouring in the oil and the wine of the divine promise to cheer, comfort,
bless and prepare for joint-heirship in the Kingdom. R2580:3
Help to allay the sufferings of others, especially of the Lord's
household, though they are to assist any as they have suitable
opportunity. But their special work in blessing and comforting the world
will be in the Kingdom. R5537:1
To point them to the ransom, the resurrection, and to tell them that "joy
cometh in the morning." (Psa. 30:5) R3436:1
To preach -- "The hour is coming, in which all that are in their graves
shall hear his [Jesus'] voice and shall come forth." (John 5:28) R240:6,
1903:3, 1714:6; NS119:1, 209:4
Deliverance -- The gospel of the resurrection. E378
Signifying the liberation of Satan's captives from the bondage of sin, and
ultimately the release from death and its bondage. R3300:6
By his death he secured the key. (Rev. 1:18) HG497:4; NS139:3, 209:3
To the captives -- Surely our Lord opened no earthly prison doors at his
first advent. HG497:4; NS118:6
John the Baptist was in Herod's prison at that very time, and the Lord
never mentioned his deliverance, nor attempted it. NS209:3
The dead race, still lying in the prison-house of death, the grave. R1715:6
All in that prison-house shall be delivered, not one shall be left. NS209:4
Captives of sin, and receiving daily its wages--dying by inches and
entering the great prison-house, the tomb. R1086:1
"Sold under sin." (Rom. 7:14) R2580:4, 2310:3; C315; E122; SM611:3
All are mentioned as "prisoners," some in the prison, and some prisoners
in bondage, "captives" not yet barred in. R838:6
Sin is represented as the great oppressive Monarch, from whose power we
have been delivered by Christ. Regaining our liberty, we have become
associated with the Redeemer of all the slaves of sin and death. R930:6
"Prisoners of hope." (Zech. 9:12) R2601:1
The grave is really a symbol of hope; for we would not speak of it as a
prison house were it not for our hopes of resurrection. R894:1
Were they not captives, bound by the fetters of sin, bound also by the
chains and fetters of heredity, sickness, imperfection and death? R5068:5
Their thoughts may have gone out to John the Baptist, who at this time was
in prison, and they may have wondered whether Jesus would take any steps
for his release. R3300:6
We have no hope for the opening of the blind eyes in the present age--only
the few now get the eyesalve. It is better that the majority should be
permitted to remain blinded, that when the eyes of their understanding
have been opened, and their responsibilities proportionately increased, it
may be under circumstances more favorable to them. R2580:5
Under "the bondage of corruption" (Rom. 8:21), decay and death. R838:6,
2310:4; SM611:3
To the blind -- Mentally, morally and physically. HG293:3
The blindness which sin has brought upon the hearts of men, perverting
their mental vision, hindering them from seeing the divine being and his
divine attributes in their true light. R2580:5
Whose minds the god of this world hath blinded. (2 Cor. 4:4) R2310:5
Were not some of them actually blind also, as respected the eyes of their
understanding? R5068:5
To set at liberty -- Freedom from the domination of Satan and sin.
R3301:3
To become members of the house of sons. R3302:4
They have no liberty so long as they are under the bondage of corruption
(decay and death), hence the deliverance of the prisoners in the tomb, and
the captives not entombed, to perfect life, are equally the work of the
Restorer. R838:6
Them that are bruised -- Were they not all bruised by the fall,
imperfect, blemished, wounded, sore--mentally, morally and physically.
R5068:5
This figure fitly represents the bondage of corruption, infirmity, etc.,
which are concomitants to the death penalty. R2580:6
How comparatively valueless would all the other features of blessings be
if sickness, pain and imperfection continued. R2580:6
Luke 4:19
The acceptable year -- Time, period. R3301:1, 2581:1

The Gospel age is the only opportunity to attain unto the divine nature,
immortality--we see no "second chance" for that. R527:3*
The time in which God will accept your sacrifices, because he accepts you
as "members" of the Body of the Christ, the great High Priest, the great
Mediator of the New Covenant. R4535:3, 3301:1, 2581:1, 241:6
The entire Gospel age, the "acceptable time" in the sense that, during
this period, God is willing, through the merit of Christ's sacrifice, to
accept from amongst the sinners a Little Flock of joint-sacrificers to
share with their Redeemer the Kingdom. R5068:5
The Gospel age antitypes Israel's Day of Atonement, and the sacrifices of
our Lord and his Church, his Body, are the "better sacrifices,"
foreshadowed by the bullock and goat offered typically by the Jews. SM48:2
The acceptance of the world, after their restoration by Christ, is very
different from the acceptance of the Church in this present time. R3301:1
Luke 4:20
He closed the book -- Our Lord read discriminatingly, "rightly dividing

the word of truth" (2 Tim. 2:15). He read the part appropriate to the
time, but did not read about the day of vengeance. R3300:3, 59:3*; A218
Similarly our Lord referred to two of the "three ways" in Matt. 7:13,14,
because the third was not yet due to be opened up. A218
His teaching was to test the people: if his message were received, no day
of vengeance would be necessary; if not received, the day of vengeance
would follow, as it did follow upon that nation after it had rejected him.
R3300:3
Omitting "and the day of vengeance of our God." That part of the prophecy
was not due to be proclaimed. Today the passage is due to be given as a
whole. R5537:5, 1917:6, 241:6
It was not yet time to proclaim "the day of vengeance of our God," nor to
comfort all that mourn--the whole "groaning creation," nor to grant unto
the mourners in Zion beauty for ashes, etc. R1715:1
And sat down -- It is better that we should read one verse
understandingly and appreciatingly than that we should merely read chapter
after chapter of the Lord's Word in a formal manner. R3300:3
Fastened on him -- The audience had a mixed sentiment respecting
him--the natural feeling of irreverence for those with whom we are
intimately acquainted, and another feeling of pride in a fellow-citizen
who had attained such renown. R2579:2
Luke 4:21
Began to say -- The Lord's discourse is not given, but unquestionably it

was a grand one, based upon so grand a text. R3301:6, 2579:2
This day -- Why did he not read the entire commission? The answer is
obvious: it was because the remainder was not fulfilled in that day.
R1714:3
Now, in the harvest of their age, for the first time it could be said that
it was fulfilled. R3300:5
Fulfilled -- He did not, in any coarse or rude manner, say: "I am the
Messiah, I am the anointed of Jehovah." He did it in a quiet, unassuming
manner, by calling attention to the prophecy and declaring that its
fulfillment had now taken place. R3300:5
Primarily fulfilled in Jesus, but applies also to the members of Christ.
R5536:5, 1714:3
Luke 4:22
And all -- Lengthy quotes praising Jesus from Rousseau and Napoleon
Bonaparte. E154, 155
Bare him witness -- His superiority as a reader and exponent was
recognized, and the service was usually turned over to him. R4957:3
Yet faithfulness to the truth quickly aroused hatred and opposition. Very
soon the great ones in the church began to oppose him bitterly; but still
many of the common people heard him gladly. R1069:3
The people of Nazareth would of course feel a certain sense of pride in
their fellow-citizen, whose fame was spreading throughout all Galilee and
Judea. R5067:3
Wondered at -- Recognizing him as far beyond the ordinary. "Never man
spake like this man." (John 7:46) E154
They had never before seen one in whom was Life. R4107:4
Filled with admiration. R2579:3
The explanation of the matter is that Jesus was perfect, while all about
him were imperfect. R4957:3, 4107:4
Not merely because he was a perfect man, but also because his words were
indited of the indwelling Spirit of the Father. R240:4
Receiving his testimony, but later deserting him, walking no more with him
as he continued to enforce the lessons of divine truth. (See verse 28)
R5507:6
Gracious words -- Words of favor, of blessing, of comfort. R3301:3
Words of love, and promises of release from death. R241:3
"Never man spake like this man" (John 7:46); "Beautiful words, wonderful
words of life." SM263:1
"He taught as one having authority [as one who understood his subject
thoroughly] and not as the scribes [not doubtfully]." (Matt. 7:29) R3803:2
"Grace is poured into thy lips" (Psa. 45:2); "Let your speech be always
with grace [with manifest love and kindness], seasoned with salt [a
purifying and preservative influence]." (Col. 4:6) R1937:2
No threats of eternal torment to nine-tenths of the human family. R2569:6,
1502:4
Yet faithfulness to the truth quickly aroused hatred and opposition.
R1069:3, 5068:2
The grace of our Lord's lips is manifest to us in the message which he
left. SM55:1
Even at the age of twelve, he was intellectually superior to the mature
and learned doctors. R1682:2
Out of his mouth -- "Grace is poured into thy lips" (Psa. 45:2). "My
doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distill as the dew, as
the small rain upon the tender herb and as the showers upon the grass."
(Deut. 32:2) R1937:2
Is not this Joseph's son? -- It was just as some remarked on other
occasions: "Whence hath this man this wisdom?" (Matt. 13:54) Ah, it was by
reason of the anointing. R1715:5
One of their humblest citizens. R1715:5
Luke 4:23
Do also here -- Our Lord does not say that he was not permitted of the
Father to do miracles at Nazareth, although this is implied in the fact
that he did none, and in the examples and illustrations which he gave.
R2579:3
He might not use his power selfishly in his own interest. We may likewise
suppose that he would not be at liberty to use it simply as a
gratification to curiosity, but that it could be used only in response to
proper faith. R2579:4
We may surmise the reason the Lord did not perform any miracles at
Nazareth was because the people, being in a right condition of mind,
should have been ready to accept the good tidings without any attestation
of miracles. R3494:2
Luke 4:24
Verily I say -- Words of reproof to a heedless and merely

curiosity-seeking people. R1715:5 Human nature esteems grander that which
is distant. R3494:2
Luke 4:25
The days of Elias -- Our Lord's reference to this incident confirms this
entire piece of history respecting Elijah, the three and a half years of
famine and his visit to Sarepta. R2326:4
Three years and six months -- Foretelling the flight of the true Church
into the wilderness from the face of the false church during 1260 years,
while the harlot reigned as a queen. (Rev. 12:6) R389:3*
Illustrating the period of Papacy's reign "as a queen." (See 1 Kings
17:1,7) B256; R389:3*
Great famine -- Israel may already have had six months' drought when
Elijah announced that no rain was to be expected until he would announce
it. (See 1 Kings 18:1) R4740:1
As copious rains followed, so at the end of the 1260 years, AD 1799, the
power of the truth and its witnesses was manifested. B256
Luke 4:26
Save unto Sarepta -- In Zidon, implying that she, a Gentile, was more
worthy of the blessings than were any of the widows of Israel. (See
1Kings 17:9) R5741:3, 2326:4
A woman -- A Gentile, but more worthy of the blessings Elijah accorded
than were any of the widows of the land of Israel. R5741:3
There was faith found in the widow. R2348:1
Luke 4:27
Many lepers -- Had not thought it worth while to seek Elijah for help.
R2348:1
Saving Naaman -- There was faith found in Naaman. The "many lepers" of
Israel had heard of this prophet, no doubt; but Naaman had faith in God to
come seeking Elisha. R2348:1
Luke 4:28
In the synagogue -- They could teach the people in the synagogue, for a
time, but as they shunned not to declare the whole counsel of God, they
soon found little, and finally, no opportunity to teach the people in the
synagogue. R986:5
When they heard -- The apt illustrations were unkindly received by his
hearers because, drawing the parallel, it likened them to starving, poor
and diseased lepers, and implied our Lord's comparative greatness and
superiority to them as a dispenser of divine bounty. R2579:5
Filled with wrath -- What a picture of the natural man in his fallen
position! At one moment rejoicing in the Master's gracious words, at
another desiring to destroy him because of the failure of their selfish
hopes and ambitions. R3302:1
Those who followed the Lord for only a little season and then forsook him
ceased then to be his disciples, and were no longer so recognized. R3153:2
What made the change? The plain declaration that, because they did not
believe in him fully, therefore it would not be God's will that he should
perform any miracles for them. R5068:2
The miracles were practical, and they could appreciate them; but his
teaching that he was the Messiah seemed far-fetched, when they had known
him for so long as the son of Joseph, the carpenter. R2579:3
Their pride and patriotism made them wild. R5068:2
What consternation would follow in the churches of today if the whole
"counsel of God" (Acts 20:27) were declared! R5507:6
Luke 4:29
Thrust him out -- It seems that persecution from his earthly kindred was
not lacking, and that he was unwelcome in the home of his childhood.
R1069:3
If you are faithful in proclaiming the truth, which is sharper than any
two-edged sword, it will not be long before they will do with you as they
did with Jesus. R356:5
And led him -- Not daring to lay hands on him, but merely as a mob
gnashing upon him and pushing onward in a direction in which they desired.
R5068:2
Brow of the hill -- A precipitous hill about forty or fifty feet high.
R3302:1
Luke 4:30
Passing through the midst -- Not a disappearance in the sense of

becoming invisible to the people. It was merely an adroit, prompt
movement, by which he eluded the murderous designs of his enemies. B126
Apparently our Lord permitted the matter to go far enough to show the real
spirit of his opposers. R3302:1
By the exercise of some power, possibly a power natural to a perfect human
being, our Lord mastered them with his mind, and passed from their midst.
R2579:6
Overawing them by the dignity of his presence. R5068:2
Went his way -- His hour had not yet come and therefore he seems to have
exerted that power which belonged to him as a perfect man over the weaker,
imperfect men--the power of his mind alone, we believe. R1715:6
The same power was exercised on similar occasions. (See John 7:30,43-46.)
But when his hour was come he opened not his mouth nor resisted in any
degree the throngs that sought his life. R1715:6
As the Father had a due time for the Son in which to accomplish his work,
so, doubtless, divine providence is overruling and guiding the affairs of
each member of the Body of Christ so that not even a hair of their heads
could fall without divine notice. R3302:1
Went his way -- Unmolested; his hour had not yet come. R3302:1, 1715:6
Luke 4:31
Taught them -- The Lord has not seen fit to provide us with even a
condensed statement of his discourse, but the clear inference of the
following story is that he was speaking against sin, and incidentally
mentioned demoniacal possession. R2581:3
The sabbath days -- Type of the seventh thousand-year day. B40
Luke 4:32
They were astonished -- Truth is stranger than fiction. The fallen

condition seems to lead us to accept as more reasonable its own imaginings
or those of others, rather than the direct, clear statement of the divine
Word. R3861:1
Many, as they hear of the glorious plan of the ages, make the remark that
they are astonished at the teaching, its beauty, its power, its
reasonableness, and the way it glorifies God. R3861:4
Never imagine you can overturn an old lie without causing terrible
confusion and alarm among the children of this world living under it, as
illustrated by what transpires when your turn over a big, flat stone which
for years has remained surrounded by grass. R3860:3
With power -- Of the holy Spirit. R1917:1
He was the greatest teacher that ever lived. R1917:1
As one who knew the truth by an implicit faith in God which admitted of no
doubt, and by the practical demonstration of its power upon his own heart.
R1917:2
Our Lord had a clear understanding of the subjects he handled, and his
presentations were not vague, but clear-cut and distinct; and well-proven
by the testimony of the Law and the Prophets. R2581:3
Luke 4:33
In the synagogue -- The devil went to church then as he not infrequently

does now, and he was as opposed to having the truth preached then as he is
now. R3309:2
There was a man -- Similar to perhaps half of the insane of the present
day. R3310:4
Which had a spirit -- Apparently the human will must consent before
these evil spirits have power to take possession. But when they do take
possession apparently the willpower is so broken down that the individual
is almost helpless to resist their presence and further encroachment, even
though he so desires. R2173:3
Of an unclean devil -- One of the fallen angels from the time of the
flood mentioned in Jude 6, 7 and 2 Pet. 2:4. R3309:3
This tendency to congregate in one person indicates the desire they have
still to exercise the power originally given them; namely, the power to
materialize as men. R2173:3
And cried out -- Believing that the Lord's teachings were condemnatory
of himself and associates using the mouth of the possessed man. R3309:3
Luke 4:34
Let us alone -- Jesus had evidently made some reference in his sermon to
the subject of demoniacal obsession. R2581:5
There are many amongst men who have similarly perverted notions of their
vested rights to defraud, mislead, pillage and injure others. R3772:2
Wherever the true Gospel goes, its effect is to cause uproar and confusion
in the kingdom of the prince of darkness. R1633:3
To do with thee -- In common with thee. R3772:2 To destroy us -- Not
only not attempting to deny their own identity, but admitting his lordship
and power over them, and their expectation of some future termination of
their present restraint or imprisonment--a culmination or judgment in
their case. F626
Apparently this demon recognized that the time was still distant when the
power of Satan and all the fallen angels is doomed to be overthrown.
R3309:4, 2581:6, 254:5
It is expressly stated that those angels which sinned are to have a future
trial. (2 Pet. 2:4) R697:1
These imprisoned spirits had in mind destruction as their final doom, but
it does not prove that their suppositions were correct. R697:1; HG729:6
The faith of devils can only inspire trembling, dread and fear. (James
2:19) R606:5
I know thee -- As Satan recognized Jesus in the temptation, so all of
the fallen angels knew that the Holy One of God had become a man for the
purpose of redeeming, reclaiming and restoring humanity. R3309:3
The Holy One of God -- The testimony of the demon seemed to be
reverential, and might by some have been construed in the Lord's favor.
Jesus, however, was not willing to accept such a testimony from such a
source. R3309:4, 3122:3
By contrast, the Pharisees said, "Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph?"
(John 6:42) R1680:1
Luke 4:35
Rebuked him -- Our Lord did not deign to hold conversation with these
spirit beings, a lesson to every one of his followers. R2581:6
The divine method seems to be to make a clear separation between the
servants of God and the servants of evil. The privilege of testifying for
God, being Ambassadors for the truth, is a favor reserved for the Lord's
own people. R3309:4
Being unwilling to accept testimony from such a source. The Lord's people
should resent the service of any who do not give evidence of heart-union
with the Lord. R3309:5
Come out of him -- Give up his hold upon the man's mind and body. R3727:2
Evil spirits can do nothing except as God permits them. R1722:1
When the devil -- Today Satan, acting more skillfully than in the past,
is leading on as a scientist and is pooh-poohing suggestions that there
are evil spirits or a Beelzebub or prince of demons. R3310:5, 3122:5
Had thrown him -- Tearing him, that is to say, causing a convulsion, a
fit. R3310:3
Our Lord could have forbidden such manifestations of the demon spirit, but
preferred to allow it to be so, that thus might be manifested the
malignant disposition of the evil spirits. R2582:1, 3727:3
The demon was powerless to resist the authority of Jesus, but he caused
the man considerable torture in going from him. R3727:2
There are no such obsessions or possessions by holy Spirits. R3727:3
In the midst -- On the floor of the synagogue, in the midst of the
people. R3310:4
He came out -- Undoubtedly there are cases of demon possession
today--obsession. The customs of our day removes these to asylums, where
they are called insane. R3310:4
Hurt him not -- Not having power to do him injury, under the Lord's
command. R3310:4
Luke 4:36
What a word is this! -- Inquiring, What new teaching is this which has
authority to cast out the evil demons? R3310:4
He commandeth -- Exercising in their very presence a superhuman
power--controlling spirit beings. R2582:2
Luke 4:37
The fame of him -- There was a reason why miracles were necessary at the
beginning of this dispensation. Had our Lord Jesus performed no miracles,
how could we today feel the confidence, the assurance, that we do feel
respecting him? R3310:1
Today we have no necessity for such manifestations of miraculous power.
R3310:1
Tending to his immediate advancement of the kingly office. R1754:3
Luke 4:38
Out of the synagogue -- It was the Sabbath day, and the Jews, however
irreligious and even devilish some of them were, were all strict
Sabbatarians. R3311:1
A great fever -- How many today are being consumed by a fever of
ambition, pride or discontent? R2582:6 They besought him -- The casting
out of the demon suggested to them our Lord's power to heal diseases.
R3727:4
How can we, who have devoted or consecrated our earthly advantages for the
heavenly ones, ask to have again the earthly advantages? R3310:3
Luke 4:39
Stood over her -- Took her by the hand and helped her up. R2582:2, 3727:5
It left her -- Jesus is unquestionably able to heal the sickness of our
bodies today, but should we expect such healings? R3311:4, 3301:6
Immediately she arose -- Instead of being weak and enervated, as is
usually the case after a severe fever. R3310:6, 2582:2
Ministered unto them -- Probably in the setting forth of refreshments
and other household matters. R3311:1
An operation of the mind could not have restored at once the strength lost
by the fever. R3311:1
Luke 4:40
When the sun was setting -- The cooler time of the day, in which the
diseased could come in a warm country such as Palestine. R3311:1, 2582:2
Divers diseases -- The lamenesses and impotencies of the past find
analogies in the present: dead hands, worse than dead, used actively in
the service of evil, have been recovered for activity in the service of
the Lord; men and women, dead in trespasses and sins, awakened to newness
of life in the service of the truth. R2582:6
Healed them -- As Jesus preached freedom from evil maladies and death,
he exemplified the power and authority of his preaching by "healing all
manner of diseases." (Matt. 4:23) R241:1
Why such miracles? Why not more of them? Why not rebuke all the fevers?
The miracles were merely a prophecy of the healing blessing which is to be
fulfilled in due time in his Kingdom. R2582:3
Luke 4:41
And devils also -- Persons; not human propensities. R2171:6

Out of many -- Apparently there were great numbers thus possessed
throughout Israel. R2173:2
Thou art Christ -- Spiritualists talk much as we do; but every
counterfeit is a proof of a genuine; second, only valuable things are
counterfeited; and a counterfeit must resemble the genuine very closely,
or it would not deceive. R267:4
Rebuking them -- Praise and commendation from an evil source are never
to be desired. R2582:2
Suffered them -- Notice the personality and intelligence attributed to
these demons. R2171:6; HG725:5
Not to speak -- Further. R2171:6
The Lord does not desire the testimony of devils respecting himself or his
plan. "Unto the wicked God saith, What hast thou to do to declare my
statutes?" (Psa. 50:16) R3727:6
Luke 4:42
A desert place -- A wilderness, a place deserted. R114:1
Luke 4:43
Preach the kingdom -- Not only was the Kingdom the topic with which the
Lord began his public ministry, but it was really the main topic of all
his preaching, other subjects being mentioned merely in connection with or
in explanation of this one subject. A273
Luke 4:44
Synagogues -- The Lord could go into the synagogues and teach for a
time; but soon found little, and finally no, opportunity to teach there.
R986:5
Today the "clergy" keep out all who would feed the sheep "meat in due
season" (Matt. 24:45); hence the sheep are called out of Babylon. R986:6
Luke 5
Luke 5:1
It came to pass -- A period of about a year elapsed between the

temptation in the wilderness and this scene on the Lake of Galilee.
R3720:1 The people pressed -- Hungry for the word of life. R3720:2
A different reception from his rejection in Nazareth. R3307:2
Luke 5:2
Two ships -- Peter and his brother Andrew were managing one of the
boats, and James and his brother John another of the same partnership.
R3720:2
Washing their nets -- These fishermen, and perhaps others in the same
vicinity, proceeded with their work while the Lord was preaching, no doubt
giving earnest attention to his words at the same time. R3720:2
Preparing for the next night's fishing. R3720:2
Christ did not call idlers but workers into his ministry. R2246:1
Lake of Gennesaret -- Sea of Galilee. R3307:2, 5554:3, 3720:2
Luke 5:3
Thrust out a little -- From which position he could the more easily
address the large crowds on the shelving beach. R3720:2
Out of the ship -- The voice carries remarkably well at this spot.
R2627:2
Luke 5:4
Had left speaking -- We wonder that more of our Lord's discourses have
not been preserved for us. It is because that without the spirit of
adoption, they could not understand spiritual things. R3307:2,3
Luke 5:5
Have taken nothing -- For some reason the fish were not in that quarter
of the lake at that time. R3307:6
The net -- The Gospel call of the Gospel age. (Matt. 13:47) R3308:5
Luke 5:6
Multitude of fishes -- Symbol of men of all classes, suitable and

unsuitable for the Kingdom. C214; R3308:5
Luke 5:6
A great multitude -- A miracle was performed however we may view it: the
creation of fish on the spot, the Lord bringing a great school of fish to
the vicinity, or the knowledge of the Lord that such a school of fish was
in the vicinity. R3720:3
Teaching that the success or failure of their efforts, in any direction,
he can control if he please. B118
Here also was a prophecy of their success as fishers of men. They were to
catch multitudes. R1716:1
This furnished the precedent for them to recognize him when he appeared in
another form to them after his resurrection, but performed a similar
miracle. (John 21:6) B118; R941:4
The thickness of the schools of fish in the lake of Gennesaret is almost
incredible. They often cover an area of more than an acre, packed closely
together. R3720:3
And their net -- Representing the nominal Christian church. C214; R1716:1
Luke 5:8
When -- Peter's impulsiveness, by itself, is an attractive trait. R3308:1

Simon Peter -- It was probably at an earlier interview that our Lord
gave Simon this surname of Peter. R3307:6
Fell down -- Recognizing that no ordinary human being could have
produced such results under such circumstances. R3308:1
Depart from me -- Peter's real sentiment was probably the reverse: "O
Lord, although I am a sinful man, permit me to be near thee, that I may be
blessed by contact with thee." R3308:1
He realized that he was in the presence of one possessed of more than
human wisdom and power, and correspondingly he felt afraid. R3720:3
A sinful man -- I recognize the great difference between us. R3308:1
A prayer which Jesus answered in making him one of the twelve. R3308:1
Luke 5:9
He was astonished -- This miracle was performed for the purpose of

finally convincing Peter, Andrew, James and John respecting the Lord's
relationship to the Father, and his power of control in respect to things
temporal as well as things spiritual. R3720:3
Luke 5:10
James...John...Simon -- Men from the humbler walks of life. R1521:2,3

The three who seemed to have the zeal, energy and vim which the Lord
appreciates. R3308:1
And Jesus -- Who had doubtless performed the miracle for the purpose of
fully convincing them of his control of things temporal as well as
spiritual. R3720:3
Henceforth thou -- Only four of all the multitude were specially chosen
and called. R3720:5
They were already his disciples in a general sense of the word, followers,
believers, but now the time had come for the Lord's selection of the
twelve apostles who should be with him continually. R3307:6; F210
Catch men -- For the Lord and his service; not for our personal profit
or gain, not for sectarian upbuilding. R3308:4
The Lord does not invite at first to a full consecration, but rather gives
instruction along the lines of justification, and after they have grown to
some degree, the privilege of forsaking all to be his special disciples.
R3720:5
Gathering them into the Gospel net, with a view to their ultimate
glorification as new creatures in Christ. R3721:1
Not trying to get disciples into some sectarian bondage, but to catch men
with the glorious hopes of the Gospel, to bring them into such
relationship with the Lord that they would fully and gladly surrender
their all to him. R3308:4
Fishing requires energy, tact, proper bait, and that the fishermen keep
himself out of sight. These four things are requisites in the spiritual
fishing in which the Lord privileges us to engage. R3308:3, 5555:3
The skillful fisherman catches the fish individually. Likewise, very much
of the work of this age has been an individual work, accomplished by
talking to people. R5555:1
Fishermen usually hide themselves, so that the fish will not see them, but
the bait. So in drawing men to the truth, we should hide ourselves, and
throw out as bait those features of God's Word which would apply to the
one with whom we might be dealing. R5555:3
Fish are easily alarmed when they find out anyone wishes to take them, so
humanity is shy of being captured by anything--especially if they suspect
they may lose their liberties; and thus consecration appears to the world.
R3308:4
However, the fishing business does not fully illustrate the matter,
because all who are of the Lord's catch must be willingly his, else they
will not remain caught, but be cast forth. R3308:4
The fishing of the next age will be different and on a much larger scale.
R3308:5
They were to catch multitudes. R1716:1
The work of the Gospel age. R5555:1
All the fish have not yet been caught. R5555:3
Luke 5:11
To land -- Represents the harvest time of this age. R3308:5

They forsook all -- They had been with the Lord for more or less about a
year, yet had not until now reached the place where they were ready to
forsake all. R3720:5
Mark 1:20 informs us that the boats were left in the care of Zebedee. Nor
need we suppose that these four started away that same day. It may have
taken time to make proper arrangements for the fish and the business
interests of the partnership. R3720:6
Not all are called to a ministry requiring all their time; the majority
the Lord evidently intends to instruct while they are about their ordinary
business. These also, however, must forsake their boats and fishing tackle
in the heart from the moment that a full consecration is made to the Lord.
R3721:2, 3308:2
Similarly, we have duties and responsibilities in life which would be
wrong to abruptly cast aside and ignore. R3721:1
Evidently retaining some sort of interest, however, as they had no
difficulty in regaining possession of the boats when they re-embarked in
the fishing business after our Lord's death. R3308:2
If we would be his disciples we must forsake all ambitions and hopes for
wealth, name or fame, and not look back. R3721:4
Followed him -- The opposite course from what Peter had suggested--that
the Lord depart from them because he was perfect while they were poor,
weak and imperfect through the fall. R3720:4
Luke 5:14
Tell no man -- The testimony of his Messiahship was to be hidden from

the common people until the rulers of the Jewish church had been given a
full opportunity to decide for or against Christ. C168
Luke 5:15
Fame abroad of him -- Because of his miracles and teaching. R1735:3

Tending to his immediate advancement to the kingly office. R1754:3
As the fame of Jesus increased, the opposition to him became more and more
pronounced, especially from the chief priests, scribes and Pharisees as
they were brought into competition and unfavorable comparison with him as
public teachers. R1735:3
To be healed -- Healings today, when the agencies employed are not in
opposition to the Lord, may be slight intimations to men that the times of
restitution are at hand. Other manifestations of healing through agencies
in subtle opposition to the Lord we can only regard as the efforts of
Satan to offset the power of God. R1921:6
Luke 5:16
And prayed -- Our Lord frequently spent whole nights in earnest prayer.
R1865:5
Let no child of God hesitate to come to him often or to tarry long. R1865:3
Luke 5:17
Pharisees -- When they found that he received sinners and ate with them,
they hated him. R1460:1
Doctors of the law -- Rabbis, scribes. R2583:2
Luke 5:18
Men brought -- It might be questioned whether the faith was that of the
palsied man, or that of his friends. We think the circumstances warrant
the latter thought, that the sick man exercised faith and prompted his
friends to help. R2583:5
In the present time some, like this paralytic, are not past feeling and
yet are so helpless as to need the assistance of friends to bring them to
the Lord. R2584:4
The chief business of every member of Christ, besides his own development,
is to help others to the Redeemer. R3315:5
With a palsy -- Representing a condition of sin in which the individual
loses his power; in combination with this may come an insensibility of
conscience, a deadness to all principles of righteousness, "past feeling."
(Eph. 4:19) R2584:4
Luke 5:19
Upon the housetop -- By the outside stairway customary in that country,

the buildings being usually but one story in height. R2583:3
Let him down -- We should not be readily stopped by impediments and
obstacles but, like these, be ready and willing to take advantage of every
proper circumstance and condition to place our friends near to the Lord
and his power. R2584:4
Through the tiling -- The extemporaneous device of plain peasants
accustomed to opening their roofs and letting down grain, straw and other
articles. R2583:3
Demonstrating a persevering, trusting faith in Christ. R1921:2
Luke 5:20
And when he -- Jesus, acting as the special agent and representative of

the Father. R3729:2
Saw their faith -- The faith of the sick man and those interested in
him. R1921:2
So far from feeling offended at the intrusion, he overlooked these because
of the quality he so much admires--faith. We also should overlook
rudeness, especially where there is evidence of sincerity of heart. R2583:4
Thy sins are forgiven -- Evidently an unlooked-for answer. R1921:2
Forgiveness of sins is the first essential step toward acceptable
Christianity. Some are inclined to put doctrine instead of faith and
repentance, but this will not do. R2584:5
"Behold the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world," said John.
(John 1:29) R1921:5
While the forgiveness of sins is an assurance that the healing, or removal
of the penalty of sin, will surely follow, it does not signify that the
recovery from the penalty will immediately follow. R1921:5
Similar forgiveness of sins may be declared by members of the Body of
Christ to all who come unto God in his appointed way. R3315:2
The Gospel Church receives forgiveness of sins in this age, and will be
"delivered from the bondage of corruption" (Rom. 8:21) at the dawn of the
Millennium. R1921:5
Luke 5:21
Who is this -- The question was a very proper one, and they are not to
be blamed for making the enquiry. R2583:6
Who can forgive sins -- Our Lord's authority to pronounce the
forgiveness of sins was in virtue of his having sacrificed his humanity;
while he, as a new creature, was a priest of the new order, fully
empowered to forgive sins. R2584:2
God never gave power to bishops, priests or ministers of any denomination
to forgive sins. Nor did Jesus give authority to the apostles to forgive
sins. They might preach forgiveness, but only in his name. HG737:5
But God alone -- The divinely appointed way for the cancellation of sins
was by means of the ransom as the legal settlement of the penalty, and
faith in Christ the Redeemer. R1921:3
Though the ransom price had not yet been actually given, the Lamb for
sacrifice had already been presented by our Lord at his baptism, and had
been accepted of God and was on the altar of sacrifice. R1921:3
Luke 5:22
Perceived their thoughts -- Even though their murmuring words did not
reach his ears. R1921:2
He answering -- Not wishing that the miracle would detract from the
preaching which it interrupted, but, on the contrary, should impress it as
well as illustrate it. R2583:5
Luke 5:23
Whether is easier -- Equally easy, for both the authority and the power
are committed unto Jehovah's Anointed. R1921:5
The same divine authority that was necessary to the forgiveness of sins
was also necessary to the healing. If the forgiveness of sins was
blasphemy, so also was the healing. R1921:3
Thy sins be forgiven -- In every instance the healing of the soul from
the sickness and condemnation of sin should be placed first, as the
highest and most important thing, far outranking physical conditions and
blessings. R2584:1
There was a provision in the Jewish law for the forgiveness of sins,
through the offering of special sin offerings. The paralytic evidently
brought to the Lord the sacrifice appropriate to the new dispensation, "a
broken and a contrite heart." (Psa. 51:17) R2584:2
Luke 5:24
Unto the sick -- Healing did not follow as a result of the forgiveness
of sins. The forgiveness of sins was one thing and the healing was
another. R1921:3
Arise -- Thus our Lord called attention to his miracles of healing as
the divine testimonials of his claims to be the Son of God, the
long-looked-for Messiah of Israel. R1921:5
All our Lord's healings were both instantaneous and complete, showing
the fullness of his authority and power. R1921:6
Luke 5:25
He arose -- A proof, not only of our Lord's healing power, but also of
his power to forgive sins. R2583:6
Luke 5:26
Filled with fear -- Reverence, a fear in the sense of respect for the
God whose love, sympathy and compassion had been so wonderfully
manifested. R2583:6
Luke 5:27
Saw a publican -- Probably Matthew had not only knowledge of our Lord,
but also faith in him, as the Messiah. Not until now, however, had Jesus
invited him to become one of his immediate disciples; not until now,
therefore, could Matthew essay to become such. R2591:1, 2260:1
Named Levi -- As Simon's name was changed by the Lord to Peter, so
Levi's name was changed to Matthew, which signifies "the gift of God."
R2591:1, 2260:3
The receipt of custom -- A revenue collector. R2590:6, 2260:2
Receipt of custom -- An occupation despised by the average Jew as being
unpatriotic. R2591:1
Follow me -- Our Lord's choice of a publican to be one of the favored
apostles indicates the impartiality of his selections; and implies that
Matthew could not have been one of the dishonest publicans. It also showed
that he passed by no Israelite indeed merely because there was prejudice
amongst the people against him or his class. R2260:2
The influence of the fact that our Lord would accept a publican to be his
disciple was far-reaching, and no doubt inspired an interest in our Lord
amongst the degraded and outcast classes. R2260:3
While the Lord called each apostle individually, there was also a special
occasion upon which he dedicated them to their office as apostles. R1521:2
Luke 5:28
He left all -- Not that he left his money-drawer open and his accounts
with the Roman government unsettled, to immediately follow the Master. It
may have taken days or weeks to straighten his affairs and enable him to
respond to the Lord's call. R2591:1
Luke 5:29
A great feast -- Probably several weeks after Matthew's call. R2591:5

As a man of influence he responded to the Lord's call by consecrating
himself and his all, and set about to use these to draw others to the
Savior by announcing his devotion under such favorable circumstances as
might possibly win some. R2591:2
Each should seek to exert his influence where it is greatest, amongst
those with whom he is acquainted and who are acquainted with him. R2591:3
From the connection of the narrative it is supposed that it was on one of
the regular fast days of the Pharisees. R2591:5
In his own house -- Hospitality should be used as a channel for the
advancement of the truth. The homes of those who have consecrated
themselves to the Lord should be consecrated homes, in which the first
consideration should be the service of the Master. R2591:3
Of publicans -- Publicans were counted unpatriotic, disloyal to their
own nation, in that they accepted the service of an alien government, and
made use of their knowledge of their country and people in assisting to
collect revenues deemed unjust. R2591:1
Of others -- Publicans, ostracized not because they were wicked, but
because their business was disesteemed, were forced to have most of their
social intercourse with the non-religious, called "sinners". R2591:2
Being cast off from the sympathies and friendship of the Jews in general,
they were naturally less influenced by their prejudices and hence more
ready to receive the truth. R1783:3
Luke 5:30
Why do you eat -- The objection was not that our Lord should not teach
the publicans and sinners, but that he should not eat with them, which
implied a social equality. R2591:5
Our Lord's strict observance of the Law no doubt made him at first a
favorite with the Pharisees. But when they found that he received sinners,
they began to realize that his righteousness was of a different sort from
theirs and, as darkness is opposed to light, they hated him. R1459:6
They should have had the yearning compassion which would have delighted to
lift them out of sin and brought them nearer to the Lord and nearer to
righteous influences. R2592:1
With publicans -- They were classed with sinners and harlots in New
Testament usage. The Hebrew Talmud classes them with murderers and
thieves, and regards their repentance as impossible. R2260:2
Sinners -- Not necessarily vile persons and evil-doers, but rather
persons who did not profess nor attempt the holiness claimed by the
Pharisees, persons who did not claim to be absolute keepers of the divine
law. R2591:2
One class of Jews at that time was designated the holy people, Pharisees,
and another class was designated as not professing absolute holiness,
sinners. R2591:3
Luke 5:31
They that are whole -- Not that the Pharisees were not sick, and that
they did not need our Lord's ministry. The fact was, that not admitting
they were sin-sick, they were not disposed to receive his good medicine of
doctrine. R2591:6
A physician -- The physician had a right to go and mingle with those
whom he sought to relieve, and might mingle with them in whatever manner
he saw to be expedient for their cure. R2591:6
Luke 5:32
The righteous -- Anyone who considered himself to be righteous would be

beyond the call of repentance. R2591:6
But sinners -- His call to the Kingdom was not a call of the righteous,
but of those who realized themselves to be imperfect. R2260:4
In God's sight the publicans had the better standing, because of his
acknowledgment of imperfections and his petition for mercy. R2591:6
Humility and the realization of the need of a Savior are essential to all
who would come to the Father through Christ and his atonement. R2260:5
Luke 5:34
Fast -- Fasting is a concomitant of mourning and sorrow. R2260:5

A very plain diet for a season, if not total abstinence. R2260:6
The bridegroom -- Jesus, personally, is the Bridegroom, and not Jesus
and the overcomers. R398:4
Is with them -- Cheering their hearts, refreshing and strengthening
them, opening the eyes of their understanding, and giving them hearing
ears to appreciate the divine favor that was coming unto them. R2592:1
Now, in the Lord's second Presence, we might say that the feast has begun
again. R2592:2
Luke 5:35
Then shall they fast -- Throughout the Gospel age the Lord's people have
frequently felt called upon, in time of darkness and adversity, to seek a
very close approach to the Lord by humbling of the flesh, and have found
fasting a valuable means to this end. R2592:2
Fasting has a typical significance. It means self-denial. When the Master
was with his people it required little self-denial to be his follower. But
later on, when he got into the toils of his enemies, it required
self-denial to confess and follow him. R2592:2
Throughout the Gospel age none could be a follower of the Lamb without
self-denial, fasting, refusing the desires and appetites of the
flesh--sacrificing some and mortifying others in the interest of spiritual
Fasting is proper enough when intelligently done and from a right motive,
specially commendable to the Lord's people at times when they find
themselves lacking in spirituality and exposed to severe temptations. By
impoverishing the physical force and vitality, to may assist the
full-blooded and impulsive to self-control in every direction. R2260:5
Discipline the body by abstaining from delicacies and relishes. R3659:5
Very plain diet or total abstinence from food is occasionally desirable to
many of the Lord's people. R2260:5
Fasting is worse than useless when done as a formality or ceremony. R2260:5
Luke 5:36
A parable -- Given to emphasize that before the blessing could come to

natural Israel, spiritual Israel must be selected. R4987:5
No man putteth -- Combining Christianity with Judaism would have been
disastrous to both for they are opposites--the one demanding absolute
righteousness, impossible for sinners; the other demanding that the
impossibility of personal righteousness be acknowledged and that faith be
the only condition of forgiveness and mercy. R2592:4
Perhaps the first intimation our Lord had given of the fact that Israel as
a nation would not be found worthy of the Kingdom and would be rejected.
R2260:6
A new garment -- The fuller light of truth due at the first and second
advents of the Lord. C160
An imputed righteousness according to faith, based upon the merits of his
own sacrifice for sins. R2592:4
Upon an old -- An old sect or organization; Judaism. C160; R4987:5
The impossible righteousness required by the law. R2592:4
Maketh a rent -- Would only make the weakness more noticeable. C160;
R4987:5
Luke 5:37
And no man -- Similarly now, we perceive the impossibility of putting

the new wine which the Master is now providing into the old wine-skins of
sectarianism. R2592:5
Putteth new wine -- Which has not finished its fermentation. R4987:5,
509:5
New doctrines. R2592:5
Into old bottles -- Wineskins, whose elasticity had been exhausted.
C160; R4987:5, 509:5
Old systems; Judaism. C160; R2134:2
Burst the bottles -- New wine, put into such skins, in fermenting would
stretch them to almost bursting point. Such skins could never be used
again for new wine because, the elasticity having gone out of them, the
new wine, in fermenting, would surely burst them. R2592:5
Showing that the wine in use at that time did ferment, and that therefore
the wine used at the last supper was probably fermented. R509:5
By the fermentation process of trials, disciplines and testings. R4987:5
Rending them asunder by new truths which are out of harmony with sectarian
pride, errors, traditions and superstitions of which these systems are
built. C160
And be spilled -- Left stranded, hampered by all the old errors of the
sect and held responsible for its past record by the world in general. C160
Not only the Jewish nation would have been convulsed and wrecked by the
spirit of the new teachings, but also the doctrines themselves would have
gone down with the wreck of the nation. R2592:5
Luke 5:38
Into new bottles -- New wineskins that will be able to stand the stress
of the fermentation sure to come--trials, disciplines, testings. R4987:5
Our Lord's work was not like that of John the Baptist, not a work of
reformation, patching up the Jewish system and arrangement. R2592:4
He was making an entirely new institution, gathering out a church, which
would not be a Jewish church, nor a Reformed Jewish church, but a wholly
different institution, a Christian church. R2592:4
God is now, as in the end of the Jewish age, calling out of the whole
system such as are Israelites indeed, that they may receive at his hands
the new wine, doctrine, of the new dispensation just at hand. R2592:6
Luke 6
Luke 6:1
That he went -- Probably on the way to the synagogue. R3316:6

Through the corn -- Through the wheat. R3754:1
Plucked the ears -- The Pharisees claimed that rubbing the grain in the
hands and blowing away the chaff constituted winnowing and threshing, thus
violating the Sabbath. R3754:2
And did eat -- The Pharisees had a rule that no food should be eaten
until after worship in the synagogue. R3316:6
Luke 6:5
Is Lord also of -- The proper teacher to set forth the real significance
to the Jew. R3754:4
Luke 6:6
On another Sabbath -- Type of the Millennial age. B40
Luke 6:9
To save life -- Greek, psuche; better translated "being" or "soul" to

prevent confusion. E335
Luke 6:10
Whole -- Complete--not in the full sense of the word, but enough so to

have a new start. R5167:4
Luke 6:11
Filled with madness -- Manifesting a rabid spirit of sectarianism and

self-importance imitated by some in our day who lack the spirit of the
truth. R3754:5
Luke 6:12
Continued all night -- Take time to pray. R5379:3*

The Apostle urged the saints to "strive together (Greek, agonize) with me
in prayers to God." (Rom. 15:30) R1865:5
Our Lord frequently spent whole nights in earnest prayer. R1865:5
To take counsel of God with reference to the interests of the prospective
Church. F210; R1521:3
Luke 6:13
When it was day -- While the Lord called each individually, there was
also a special occasion where he dedicated them to their office as
apostles. R1521:2
His disciples -- Greek, mathetas, learners, or pupils. R1521:3
To the disciples belong the special teaching, training and discipline of
the holy Spirit given unto them as the seal of divine sonship, and all the
exceeding great and precious promises of the gospel. R2072:3
Of them -- From amongst invited followers, disciples. F210
Because of humility and strength of character. F211
He chose twelve -- Twelve alone were chosen, and not in succession, but
at once. The last pages of inspiration show us that only the teachings of
the twelve are foundations for the faith of the Church, the New Jerusalem.
(Rev. 21:14) R1526:3
Only the males were chosen. F265
They were a distinct and separate class among the Lord's disciples, fully
under the Lord's direction and careful students of his character, Gospel
and methods. F210; R1521:3,5
The twelve wells at Elim remind us of the Apostles. R4011:2
Named apostles -- Greek, apostolos, ones sent forth. Thus the twelve
were marked as a distinct and separate class among the Lord's disciples.
R1521:3
Luke 6:14
Peter -- Bold and impulsive. R2261:1

Andrew -- Far-seeing, careful, cautious. R2261:1
James -- Elderly. R2261:1
John -- Youthful. R2261:1
Phillip -- Slow-witted. R2261:1
Bartholomew -- Nathaniel, the quick-witted. R2261:1
Luke 6:15
Matthew -- One of the heroes of faith. R2261:2

Thomas -- The doubting, skeptical intellect. R2261:2
James -- The advocate of works. R2261:2
Jude -- Thaddeus, Lebbeus, a man of doctrine. R2261:2
Luke 6:16
Simon -- The zealot, enthusiastic and independent. R2261:2

Judas Iscariot -- The conservative economist. R2261:2
Luke 6:17
And the company -- Making the distinction very clear between the twelve
and the other disciples, not so chosen but also beloved of the Lord, and
doubtless in full sympathy with the appointment of the twelve, recognizing
it as in the interests of the work in general. R1521:3
Luke 6:18
They were healed -- It was by these healings that Israelites were to

recognize him as Messiah, in fulfillment of the predictions of the prophets.
R1314:5
Luke 6:19
Went virtue out -- Healing vigor. R2000:1

Strength, vitality, power. R574:4
Vitality. The Great Teacher's miracles were not performed without cost to
himself. R4669:5, 4576:3
The healing of the sick, as performed by the Lord, was not by superhuman
power, but, on the contrary, in healing the sick he expended upon them a
part of his own vitality. Consequently, the greater number healed, the
greater was our Lord's loss of vitality, strength. E124
"Being free from sin, he was free also from pain. Since he could not
suffer pain and sickness because of sin, he was placed for a time among
sinners, so their weaknesses and pains bore down upon him. R2000:1
the imperfections and sins. R454:3
Jesus took "the likeness of sinful flesh," but he took that likeness in
its perfection. He did not partake of its sin or share its imperfection,
except as he voluntarily shared the sorrows and pains of some during his
ministry. A230
Every healing performed, to a proportionate extent, decreased the Lord's
vitality. R4576:3
All of our Lord's miracles caused him a measure of self-sacrifice, loss of
vitality. He thus daily, little by little, laid down his life. R4138:1
For three and a half years the Lord's ministry had been a constant drain
upon his vital forces, not merely in connection with his public preaching,
but specially in connection with the miracles which he wrought at the
expense of his own vitality. R2787:2
The using of strength for the assisting of others continued to the end of
his ministry, when through non-resistance, submission to the Father's
will, he permitted himself to be crucified for sinners. R3727:5
A part of his dying, finally ending in death, even the literal death of
the cross. SM645:1
Our Lord suffered pain from the infirmities of those whom he relieved
because, being without sin, he was also without sickness and pain, except
as he thus "took" and "bare" it from others that he might be touched with
a feeling of our infirmities. R2028:6, 1359:3; F632
He, as the one who was giving his life as man's substitute and redeemer,
violated no law that we understand or can appreciate, when he healed the
multitudes by letting his vitality go out into them. R1314:5
It is the most refined and perfect organisms which can suffer most. R454:3
It is possible to share the troubles of a friend, and sympathetically to
relieve in a measure the depressed one, and, to some extent, impart
increased vitality and lightness of spirit. E125
The gift which costs nothing cannot be so highly esteemed as that gift
which costs much. R4138:2
"Himself took our infirmities." (Matt. 8:17) A230; E125; F632; R3727:5,
574:5, 4576:3
He impoverished himself to bless others. R1735:4, 1359:3
"Surely he hath borne our griefs and carried our sorrows." (Isa. 53:4)
R1359:3, 574:5
Healed them all -- In mind and body. SM645:1
He kept back nothing for the purpose of recuperating his vigor, but was
daily yielding his life in obedience to what he understood to be the
Luke 6:20
Lifted up his eyes -- Tenderly and approvingly. R1735:2

On his disciples -- The twelve especially. R1735:2 Beginning St. Luke's
account of the sermon on the Mount. It does not profess to be a regulation
for the world, but merely applies to saints, to those who have consecrated
their lives fully to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. R5005:1
Blessed -- Impressing on their minds a sense of blessedness of their
privilege of service, and even of suffering. R1735:2
All of their experiences tend to develop faith, while those of the rich
tend rather to develop self-reliance, self-assurance. The experiences of
the poor and ignorant tend to develop meekness, teachableness, whereas the
experiences of the learned tend naturally toward self-conceit. CR423:4
Relates to that permanent joy and comfort which are the result of the
atunement of character to harmony with the divine. R3733:2
Be ye poor -- Not all the poor are to be blessed and to inherit the
kingdom of God--but, to the disciples, he said "ye poor." R5004:2
Those who were poor, or became so, as his disciples; or, as Matthew
records it, "Blessed are the poor in spirit." (Matt. 5:3) R1920:5; CR423:5
"In spirit" was Matthew's comment, and not our Lord's exact words. R1493:3
Some poor, instead of being drawn to God by their poverty, cultivate a
spirit of anger, malice, hatred, strife, and are thus not only embittered
in spirit, but have their faces turned in the opposite direction from the
one in which God's blessings come. CR423:5
Poor in any sense of the word, whether financially, socially or otherwise,
by sacrificing themselves. Blessed are all the sacrificers. R1493:5;
CR423:5
Having nothing of their own, they can lose nothing. CR424:5
Who having nothing to call their own. R1735:2
Undoubtedly poverty is a greater aid to discipleship than wealth. The cost
of discipleship is the surrender of every earthly ambition to follow in
the footsteps of Jesus. The rich are disadvantaged because theirs would be
the greater sacrifice. "How hardly shall a rich man enter into the kingdom
of God." (Matt. 19:23) R5004:2
Not the rich, the learned, the rulers, the self-contented; but those
lacking self-confidence and self-esteem, who appreciate their own
littleness and imperfection. R3733:6; CR423:5
Not necessarily the poor in pocket. Some who are poor in pocket are very
proud in spirit. R2585:5
Those who have sacrificed earthly blessings in order to become "heirs of
God and joint-heirs with Christ." (Rom. 8:17) CR423:5
Those who follow their Lord who, "Though he was rich, yet for our sakes he
became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich." (2 Cor. 8:9)
R1493:5
Yours is the kingdom -- As inheritors of that promise, they are rich
with the wealth which moth and rust cannot corrupt, and which thieves
cannot destroy or steal. CR424:5
Luke 6:21
That hunger now -- For righteousness and truth. R1735:2

Shall be filled -- Your hunger shall be satisfied. R1735:2
That weep now -- The sympathetic, who realize their own imperfections,
and are touched with pity for the poor groaning creation, dying in sorrow,
pain and disappointment. R3734:2,1, 1735:2
Ye shall laugh -- Your sorrow shall be turned into joy. R1735:2
Luke 6:22
Blessed are ye when -- As a result of making the Gospel the

all-absorbing theme of life. A347
Men shall hate you -- "Ye shall be hated of all men for my sake." (Mark
13:13) E490
Separate you -- Those who use their liberty to preach the good tidings
in the synagogues of today will succeed, either in converting whole
congregations, or else in awakening a storm of opposition. C182
Shall reproach you -- "When he was reviled he reviled not again." (1
Pet. 2:23) R3736:3
Consecration of reputation. R465:4
Cast out your name -- Boycotted, socially or otherwise. HG694:1
When the blind man (John 9:34-39) was cast out for confessing Jesus, then
it was that Jesus "found him" and graciously revealed himself more and
more unto him. R805:3
As the Word of God becomes the all-absorbing theme of life, it will not
only separate one from the world and from many nominal Christians, in
spirit, but it will lead to separation from such entirely. A347
Son of man's sake -- Every ache, pain or wound of person or of feelings,
and beheading socially or literally for the truth's sake becomes a witness
of the spirit testifying to our faithfulness. R2007:5
By the favor of God, the endurance of the reproaches of Christ are not in
vain. R785:4
"Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name's sake, said,
Let the Lord be glorified." (Isa. 66:5) (We do this for the Lord's glory.)
C182
Luke 6:23
Rejoice ye in that day -- "He shall see the travail of his soul and
shall be satisfied." (Isa. 53:11) R785:4
In heaven -- In spiritual things, not temporal matters. R3223:2
The Kingdom of heaven is yours. R1735:2
Luke 6:24
Woe
In "a time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation." (Dan.
12:1) R1735:3
The woes of the Bible apply to the present life. CR423:1
Unto you -- You are less likely to gain this wonderful high calling of
God than if you were in humbler circumstances. R4969:4
The rich, the learned, the favored, have trials and difficulties,
perplexities, cares, doubts and fears, which the poor, the unlearned, know
nothing about. CR423:3
As we see retribution coming upon the rich, proud, mighty and
hypocritical, let us each endeavor that our own life be honest, humble and
Christ-like that we may be spared in this day of exposure of sin. R2045:5
That are rich -- Not only those who are rich in a financial sense,
wealthy; but he includes also those who are rich in the honors of men,
rich in education, or in any particular sense of special privileges,
advantages and opportunities. CR422:4
The intellectually, politically, socially and financially rich at that
time were very self-satisfied, very prosperous, and looked for the
Messianic Kingdom in an opposite direction from that which Jesus taught.
So also today. CR423:2
The rich have more on which to set their hearts, more to occupy their
time, more to cultivate self-will, more opportunity for
self-gratification, more riches for which to be responsible, more
education by which errors are more likely to influence, more to divert
them and cultivate their pride. R423:3
Who revel in luxury and pleasure now, unmindful of the suffering, death
and sorrow that reign abroad. R1735:3
God, himself very rich, is able to sympathize with both the poor and the
rich; so is the Savior, who, being rich, for our sakes became poor, that
we through his poverty might become rich in the truest sense of that word.
CR422:6
A great disadvantage, because it leads to pride and self-conceit. R5839:6,
4969:3
Our Master was actually betrayed and killed by the "money-lovers." R2045:5
Does not mean that the great, noble, wise and rich are condemned to
Ye have received -- Not that, if they had riches of learning, they must
ignore their knowledge and speak and act ignorantly. It means, however,
that their learning is no longer theirs, but the Lord's. CR423:6
Luke 6:25
Woe unto you -- "Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries
that shall come upon you." (Jas. 5:1) R4997:1; CR424:5
That are full -- Satisfied. D634
Who enjoy the favor of the world because they partake of its selfish
spirit. R1735:3
Many who are now stewards of wealth, influence, position and honor of men,
will be called to account and dispossessed of their stewardship. R4997:2
Ye shall hunger -- Be dissatisfied. Those previously accustomed to
riches will find difficulties not experienced by those previously
disciplined in the school of adversity. D634
Ye shall mourn -- St. Paul, living near the close of the Jewish age,
when the woes were being poured out, declared: Wrath has come upon this
people to the uttermost. (1 Thess. 2:16) CR423:1
In the "day of recompense" with the levelling of things that are high,
proud, domineering, and the lifting up of the poor and humble; rewarding
the well-doer in proportion to his zeal and self-sacrificing spirit, and
the evil-doer according to his knowledge of better things and the
selfishness to which he yielded. NS220:2
A time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation, the iron rod
of Christ's rule, must bring down every high thing, and subdue all things
unto him. R1735:3
Their course in life will come under reprobation and stripes. R4997:1
Luke 6:26
Woe unto you -- Look well to it that no element of worldly ambition or

worldly policy be in it to ensnare your feet and to allure you from the
narrow way. R2163:2
Speak well of you -- Not that honor of men is to be disesteemed. It will
always be true that "a good name is rather to be chosen than great
riches." (Prov. 22:1) It means that worldly reputation will be held
secondary to the Lord, the Truth and service for the Lord's cause. CR423:6
The popularity with the world for which the sects so much seek, and in a
large measure have gained, is a bad and not a good omen to them, as well
as to their prototype, the nominal Jewish church at our Lord's first
advent. R730:3
Luke 6:27
But I say -- The two tables of the law given to Israel were requirements
of justice, but Jesus and his followers take a still higher plane and,
waiving their own rights, they become sacrificers of their own comforts,
preferences and desires. R5005:3
Applies to the consecrated, but all mankind may be measurably enlightened
by this lesson. R5005:1,3
Love your enemies -- The mark of perfect love. F189
Make due allowance for hereditary taint and weakness and temptation.
R1735:5
The Law given Israel at Mt. Sinai expressed merely justice in its command,
"Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." (Lev. 19:18) PD84/97
Do not merely observe the Golden Rule toward your enemies, but love them.
R5005:5
The standard for the Lord's people is still higher than that of gratitude,
though it must include this. Our standard is benevolence, a forgiveness of
those who transgress against us. R4200:5
How may we determine that it is the sin that we hate and not the sinner?
R3849:6
Do good to them -- Seek to heal the wounds and bruises which have
resulted to them from the fall, rather than to have revenge upon them.
R1735:5
Not wish to do them harm, but on the contrary wish to open the eyes of
their understanding and to do them good. R5260:4
Not only are we not to do unrighteousness, but if another proposes to do
an evil in our interests, we would be so in sympathy with the law of
brotherly love that we would oppose the act with all our energy. R4226:5
Which hate you -- The majority of those who perpetrate evil do so
because they do not appreciate the principles involved in the matter.
R5260:4
Luke 6:28
That curse you -- Greek, kataraomi, signifying the very opposite of

blessing, a curse in the sense usually understood. Webster defines it
thus: execrable, hateful, detestable, abominable. R701:5
Pray for them -- Pray for their deliverance from the snares and
delusions of Satan and the blindness which hinders them from discerning
the beauty of holiness. R1735:5
Despitefully use you -- Be willing to suffer violence and injustice, if
need be. R606:2
Luke 6:29
That smiteth thee -- Cause you to suffer injustice. R5897:2

Also the other -- In the indirect sense of not opposing the law; or, if
smitten illegally, as were Jesus and Paul, by kindly expostulating with
the evil-doer for his own good. R2470:1, 3738:2
A figurative expression signifying the willingness to have both cheeks
smitten rather than to do injury to another. OV357:3
We are not authorized to retaliate. R3738:3
Luke 6:29
Offer also the other -- Signifying simply, do not render evil for evil,
even though he smite thee on the other cheek also. R5005:5
Simply teaching: Don't strike back or try to get even with them. Show them
that you are willing to endure hardness, and even to suffer violence and
injustice if needs be. R606:2
Our Lord himself, when smitten, did not invite the smiting of the other
cheek, but rather he defended himself to the extent of criticizing the
evil deed. R5005:5
The Apostle Paul defended himself, frequently, before priests and kings,
explaining the justice of his cause. Nevertheless, whenever the laws did
not support him, we find him bringing no railing accusation against the
laws, nor against magistrates, but submitting himself. R2944:6
That taketh away -- That would sue thee at law to take away. R1735:6,
2945:1
Our Master was not addressing nations, but individuals, his disciples.
SM451:2
Forbid not -- If no lawful redress can be obtained--lawfully, even
though unjustly. (Matt. 5:39-42) R1735:5
Take thy coat -- Matthew adds, "at the law." The follower of Jesus may
flee from an adversary, or he may resist him to the extent of proper
expostulation, but he is to be thoroughly responsive to all government.
R5005:5, 2518:2
Settle peaceably with him, even if it costs more than you would have lost
by letting the case go into court. R3738:3
Unmurmuringly submit to what the court demands. R5005:5
Luke 6:30
Give to every man -- A spirit of generosity, which prefers to let some

men take advantage in temporal things, rather than, by contention, to have
their treasure on earth instead of in heaven. R1735:5
A spirit of liberality that will shame their meanness. R606:2
Not to be taken with absolute literalness, but to be generous,
tender-hearted, to err on the side of too great generosity rather than to
be hard-hearted and selfish. R5005:6
Love and justice would, if possible, feed and clothe your neighbor if he
is unable by industry and economy to do it for himself. But neither love
nor justice to him nor to yourself would encourage indolence, prodigality
or meanness. R606:2
That asketh of thee -- That demands your valuables. R2518:3
To a certain extent we are to permit ourselves to be imposed upon. R5897:5
Ask them not again -- Don't be exacting with the debtor. R1735:6
Luke 6:31
As ye would -- Not as they would have you do to them, but, as you would
have them do to you. R606:1
Do ye also -- Measure every act, word and thought of life by the Golden
Rule. R2329:3
It does not say that we should do to our neighbor as he might wish us to
do to him, because he might wish a very unreasonable thing. R2688:4
That men -- Chiefly the household of faith. R2690:5
Should do to you -- Putting off anger, malice, hatred, strife, envy,
slanders, etc.; charging only a reasonable profit on goods sold and
expecting to pay a reasonable profit to him who sells. R2688:6,5
Do ye also -- This is a positive rule to do good, not a negative rule to
abstain from doing evil. R2329:2, 2688:2
To them likewise -- By acting kindly, speaking gently, being patient
toward weaknesses, not expecting too much. F376; R2329:2
Be generous to others, but not granting requests which might harm them.
R5005:6
Doing for them now the kind of work which God desires to have done;
leaving for the future the things which God has planned to have done in
the future. R2690:2
This is the golden rule; and by comparison the rule of Confucius, "Do not
do to others what you would not wish them to do to you," might be
considered the brazen rule. R2688:1
The Christian businessman's ideal is the Golden Rule; it applies to his
buying, selling, dealings with clerks and customers. OV369:2
The Golden Rule is rejected as impracticable, but it has not been given a
trial. R5723:5
Luke 6:32
If ye love them -- We are to distinguish between natural love and the

love of God--unmerited, sacrificing love--wholly different from anything
that is known to fallen humanity. R2648:2
From a selfish motive. R5005:6
It is easy enough to love some of the refined or wealthy or naturally
noble or the educated. R4253:6
Which love you -- Implies that it is not the love of God. R2648:2
Nothing specially creditable in this. R5005:6
It is easy enough to love some of the brethren. We are apt to love those
who are about on our plane and of our own style and liking. R4253:6
What thank have ye -- What merit is their in it? R4805:1, 1938:5
What proof have you that you have passed from death unto life? R4253:6
The standard of the Lord's people is higher than gratitude, though it must
include this, which is a keeping power in our lives. R4200:5,6
Luke 6:33
What thank have ye -- Let us examine ourselves, let us be very humble

lest the thoughts of self-congratulation and self-satisfaction which we
may consider in our hearts, even if we do not utter them aloud, bring our
condemnation. R4805:1 It would be doing from a selfish motive. R5005:6
Our standard is benevolence, a forgiveness of those who transgress against
us. R4200:5
Sinners also love -- All mankind has some share of natural love; love of
self, family, friends. R2648:2
Luke 6:33
What thank have ye? -- What merit is there in it? R1938:5, 4805:4
Luke 6:35
Love ye your enemies -- The more noble, the less of the Lord's grace is
sufficient for them; the more degraded, the more of the Lord's grace is
necessary and will be supplied. Thus we are to love the brethren. R4254:1
Be kind to all men, but not friends in the sense of having communion and
fellowship. R1588:1
The mark of perfect love. F189
Be large-hearted and generous toward them, illustrated by David's
forbearance toward King Saul. R3739:1, 5672:6, 5673:1, 2933:4
Even an "enemy" should be fed, if hungry. R2933:5
In order that our characters may be developed. R5266:5
Show a spirit of liberality that will shame their meanness; show love and
mercy that will win their respect. R606:2
Do good -- A love and mercy that will win their secret respect even
while they openly oppose us. R606:2
For principle's sake, for goodness' sake. R5005:6
To be in accord with the Heavenly Father. R5005:6, 3738:6
Exercise a benevolent spirit whenever possible and proper. R3739:1, 3738:6
"Do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of
faith. (Gal. 6:10) R4971:1
And lend -- Bear with neighbors who wish to borrow for the truth's sake,
for the Lord's sake--not directly, but indirectly--but not, of course, to
an extreme which injures your own interests. R2539:2
We may do good and lend according to our opportunities and abilities, but
are not to obligate ourselves beyond what we would be willing to give or
lend outright. R2241:2 There is nothing in the Scripture that says that we
should lend to everybody that wishes to ask for a loan, either of goods or
money; but we should not turn away with a deaf ear from those in need.
R4971:1; Q135:3
Meaningless if we should understand Jesus' teaching to be that we were to
give away every farthing to the poor; for then we should be the poorest of
all the poor, and have nothing either to lend or to give. R855:1
If we cannot always give much money, we can give a word of encouragement,
a kindly look, a helping hand over difficulties; and these will be often
more valuable than money, and sometimes more appreciated. R2933:5
What course does brotherly love dictate in the matter of "borrowing and
lending"? R3654:2
Not without security; if security cannot be given it should be given as a
gift. F567, 568
The Lord's people may be lenders, but not borrowers. R2539:2
Merely in case of necessity, not impairing your own credit or family
obligations. OV369:5
Hoping for nothing -- For no interest unless it is a business loan, and
without thought of gaining favors in return. F567, 568; R2933:5, 2241:2,
854:6; OV358:3
No reward. R2933:5
And your reward -- Corroborative of the view of future rewards and
punishments. R2613:6, 723:4 Kind unto the unthankful -- Reminding us
afresh that we should pray, "Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those
who trespass against us," and thus it tend to make our hearts and minds
more tender, more gentle, more forgiving toward all with whom we have to
do. NS674:6
Not a cruel God, as depicted by men. R5834:3; CR353:5
So we should be who have God's spirit. R5006:1, 2539:2
And to the evil -- Even an "enemy" should be fed, if hungry; but neither
friend nor foe should be encouraged in indolence, nor in wastefulness.
R2933:5
Similarly, we should not be unkind or unneighborly to the unbelieving.
R1588:1
Luke 6:36
Merciful -- But so far as the general principles of righteousness are

concerned, we must not interfere. R5259:6
We must expect divine mercy to cover our many imperfections only in
proportion as we show mercy to others. R5006:1
As your Father -- Where the interests of the Lord's cause are involved,
it is our duty to say something in defense of the truth; but not in a
personal matter. This is illustrated in the case of the Apostle Paul at
court. (Acts 13:10,11) R5260:1
Luke 6:37
Judge not -- New creatures are not competent to be judges one of another
for two reasons: (1) few of them have fully comprehended and appreciate
the Divine Law of Love governing all; (2) evidently few can read their own
hearts unerringly. F403
Harshly, unmercifully, ungenerously. R2329:3
We should not reckon ourselves as competent judges of men's hearts. But in
the cases of disguised wolves, swine and dogs, the condemnation of that
law, which is God's judgment, not ours merely, should always be
recognized. R1712:5
Some people must be held at arm's length, but at the same time we should
be careful to give them credit for any good motives they claim to have.
N'05-3-26
Condemn not -- No one but the Lord certainly, truly, knows which are the
goats. OV123:1
And ye -- Not applicable to everybody; to so understand it would be to
ignore the ransom and faith in the same, and other conditions of
discipleship. It is applicable only to believers, already justified and
brought into harmony with God. R2294:2
Shall not be judged -- He who stands upon justice will fall before the
sword of justice. Realize your own weakness and imperfection and need of
help and exercise a similar generosity with your fellows in tribulation.
R2294:6
A condition upon which we receive divine mercy is that we ourselves are
governed by the same rule of love and mercy toward our fellow-creatures.
R2329:3
Forgive -- Heart forgiveness leaves no sting, no animosity, no grudge.
R2296:1
Our hearts should be so full of this disposition toward forgiveness that
our face would not have a hard look, nor our words a reproof, a bitter
sting. R2296:4
Forgiveness in our hearts is the condition which is always to obtain
there: we should never harbor any other feeling than that of forgiveness
and good will toward all, no matter how seriously they may have trespassed
against us. R2296:4
The very essence of Christian principle is love, sympathy and the
forgiveness of the faults of others. We may not forgive in the absolute
sense until our forgiveness is asked, yet we should be always in a
forgiving attitude. R2253:3,4, 4650:5, 2295:6
Ye shall be forgiven -- Believers, already justified and brought into
This does not relate to the Adamic guilt of the saints, but to their daily
shortcomings. Their share in original sin and condemnation was cancelled
through the merit of Christ before they were accepted as his disciples.
R5006:1
Luke 6:38
Give -- The general principle of divine dealing--"The Lord loveth a

cheerful giver." (2Cor. 9:7) R2514:4
Reckon yourself God's steward, commissioned by him to use all your goods,
as well as your personal talents, to his glory in serving those about you.
R855:2
Love may go beyond the law and do more than justice could require, in
self-sacrifice, but it cannot do less. R5006:4
Running over -- The salesman fills the bushel, then jars or shakes it
down solid and fills to the top, then puts in his hand and presses it,
then spreads out the top so as to pile on as much as possible and then,
running over, empties it to his customer. R1396:4
Exemplifying the good measure of the glorious work of Christ's Millennial
Kingdom. R1396:4
Ye mete -- Measure to others. R2253:4
The forgiving of God's children is dependent upon their having a spirit of
forgiveness towards the brethren. R5135:5
To you again -- Because you will have shown yourselves either children
of wrath or children of love, and God must deal with you accordingly. F403
Luke 6:39
Can the blind -- The scribes, Pharisees and Doctors of the Law. R5029:1
Lead -- The destination sought by the Jews was fellowship with, and
relationship to, God. R5029:1
They both -- Both leaders and masses stumbled and fell. So, too, Jesus
says of the nominal church here, "Thou knowest not that thou art poor and
blind" (Rev. 3:17). Again, for the same reasons, many stumble and fall.
R178:4
Fall into the ditch -- The entire Jewish race was blinded and turned
aside and fell into the pit of confusion, darkness and separation from
God. R5029:1
Into the labyrinths of error. R1875:1
General doubt and unbelief; difficulties. R2948:1, 5029:1
The great time of trouble in the end of the Jewish age. R2615:3
Not into a hell of torment. R2615:3
Luke 6:40
Not above his Master -- As our Lord suffered violence from the prince of
this world, so will his followers. OV343:2; R1816:1
"All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution." (2
Tim. 3:12) R1816:1
Luke 6:41
And why -- "Busybodying in other men's matters. " (1Pet. 4:15) F583
The Master here inculcated the necessity of humility on the part of those
who would be taught of God. R5029:3
The mote -- A grain of sawdust. R2589:3
The little difficulties and weaknesses with which all the Lord's people
have to contend. R2589:3
It is wrong to encourage in oneself a fault-finding disposition. R1922:1
Thy brother's eye -- True brotherly love remembers that, while our
neighbor's faults are unpleasant to us, ours may be equally unpleasant to
them. R1922:1
Busy-bodies. There are some who are so constituted that it is second
nature for them to attempt to regulate everybody else according to their
own ideals and standards. R4282:2
Not the beam -- The great fault of lovelessness. R2589:3
Satan possesses this to such an extent that he is called the "Accuser of
the brethren." (Rev. 12:10) R2589:4
Luke 6:42
Pull out the mote -- Busybody themselves with other men's affairs.
R4282:2
The continual fault-finder, who sees great blemishes in others, but is
blind to his own defects. R4567:6
Beholdest not -- Those who think they know everything can learn nothing.
"The more a man does examine, the more does he discover the infirmities of
his own character"--Chalmers. "Ten thousand of the greatest faults in our
neighbors are of less consequence to us than one of the smallest in
ourselves"--Wheatley. R5029:3
Thou hypocrite -- A vain pretension to a zeal for righteousness which is
not sincere. A sincere zeal for righteousness will always begin with
self-discipline. R1922:1
Wishing to give the inference that they are not afflicted with the malady
of sin. R2589:4
A loveless, fault-finding, brethren-accusing class. R2589:4
Then shalt thou see -- If any man does not submit his own heart to the
leading and teaching of the Lord, he has no authority from him to teach
others to do so. R1922:1
Luke 6:43
A good tree -- A healthy Christian. R3747:3

Bringeth not forth corrupt -- Either God, in causing evil, was unholy,
impure and sinful; or else he is pure and holy and, as such, could not be
the creator or producer of any other quality. R848:3
A corrupt tree -- A Christian that has failed to grow in grace,
knowledge and love, one that has not appropriated the nourishment
provided, not submitted to pruning, and whose heart has become decayed.
R3747:3,4
A perverted and misguided Christian. R3747:3
Good fruit -- The fruit of the lives of the Lord's people is nourishing
and refreshing toward all who have fellowship with them. R3747:2
Luke 6:44
Known by his own fruit -- All of our words and actions in the little, as
in the great things of life, testify in judgment, either for or against
us, every day. R1922:4
While not condemning the heart, we are to judge of the outward character.
R5029:4
The fruit-bearing test of being his disciples. R3317:2
Of thorns -- Some people, like thorns, continually reach out to impede,
irritate, annoy, vex, poison and injure all those with whom they come in
contact. R3747:2
A bramble bush -- Mankind in general, ready to scratch, tear and injure
at the slightest provocation; merely self-sustaining and not bringing
forth fruitage that would be a blessing to others. R5029:4, 3318:2
It is said at times that a bramble bush will be entirely covered by a
vine, so that the grapes would appear to be coming from the bush. We are
not to be mistaken. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruitage, neither
can an injurious tree bring forth good fruitage. R5029:5, 3318:2
Should we find some of the fruits of the spirit commingling with a
thorniness of life, an evil and injurious disposition, we are to assume
that, in some sense of the word, the fruitage is merely put on and does
not belong to the bramble-bush character. R5029:5
"By their fruits ye shall know them." (Matt. 7:20) R5029:4
Grapes -- God's people are likened to the grape-vine, which produces no
thorns, but luscious clusters of fruit. R5029:4
Luke 6:45
Good treasure -- As one thinks upon good, pure, holy things, the mind
becomes stored with good treasure. R5518:5,6
Evil treasure -- An evil disposition--a mind in which evil has been
stored. R5518:6
That which is evil -- Despite all endeavors to hide it. R5518:6
Abundance of the heart -- Hence the importance of having our hearts
filled with good things, in order that out of the abundance of these good
things our mouths may speak continually good things that the Lord would
approve, and that would minister blessing to those who hear. R2588:3
His mouth speaketh -- The heart is representative of the character, and
the mouth is the index of that character. The heart is used with the force
of the word mind. R5518:4
How are words the index of our hearts? R3769:5
All of our words and actions testify in judgment, for or against us, every
day. R1922:4
If it speaks slander, it shows the real heart condition. F408
Whatever is stored up in the mind is sure to be spoken. R5518:6
Those who think on true, lovely, good and beautiful things will speak to
each other of the same. R2588:3
Luke 6:46
And do not -- Many seem content simply to know things. Knowledge does
not bring, nor produce, happiness. Obedience does. R1802:2*
Luke 6:47
Heareth my sayings -- Understands my teaching. R3318:4

Doeth them -- To do, as the Lord indicated, signified, not an insincere
outward show of righteousness, but radical and thorough reform. R1922:4
Luke 6:48
He -- Not the heathen in any sense of the word, but believers. R3318:4
Luke 6:48
A man -- A prudent and careful believer. R5029:6

In this parable our Lord gives a forceful picture of the tests to come
upon Christendom at the close of this age. R5443:4
Built an house -- The faith structure of all professed followers.
R5443:4, 5029:6, 564:2
Digged deep -- Digging down deep through all the rubbish of pride and
conceit, and laying well the foundations of a sincere and righteous
character. R1922:
One who seeks for the doctrines and principles of the divine Word. R5029:6
Laid the foundation -- No man can build a proper life unless he has some
foundation, some doctrine, some faith. A man with no faith, no hope, is
sure to be correspondingly lacking in character. R3318:4
On a rock -- Christ is the rock. R1922:5
The solid rock, the ransom, the only sure foundation, which God hath
provided. R3823:1
Flood -- Of temptation. R1922:5
Ere long the storm of truth will wash out the quicksand foundation upon
which nominal Christianity is built. "The hail shall sweep away the refuge
of lies, and the waters shall overflow the hiding places." (Isa. 28:17-19)
R5443:4
Luke 6:49
A man -- An unwise believer. R5029:6

Built an house -- Whether they use good or bad materials. R3823:1
Upon the earth -- The sand alongside the rock. R564:2
In ourselves we find no ground of stability upon which to rear our
building of character and faith. R1922:5
The traditions of the elders and the creeds of the dark ages. R5029:6,
1922:5
The stream -- The floods of temptation. R1922:5
Beat vehemently -- Time of stress and storm with which this age will
end. R5029:6
It fell -- Their faith will surely be swept away; and character must
necessarily suffer from the decline of faith. R1922:5
There will be a general fall of Babylon. Everything not well founded upon
the sure Word of God will give way. R5029:6
Well illustrating the overthrow of all systems which reject the only
foundation. R564:2
Ruin of that house -- The utter wreck of nominal Christendom. R3748:5,
5443:4
Was great -- Those whose faith structure will fail will thereby suffer
great loss, though they themselves may be saved as by fire--through great
tribulation. (1 Cor. 3:13-15) R5029:6
Confusion, darkness and separation from God. R5029:1
Luke 7
Luke 7:1
When he had ended -- Following the Sermon on the Mount. Matthew and
Luke, in thus arranging matters, show that he who had given the wonderful
teachings on the mount was fully attested by the miraculous powers shown
to reside in him. R3755:3
Capernaum -- The home city of Peter and others, and now the home city of
Jesus, since he had been spurned and rejected at Nazareth. R3755:3
Luke 7:2
Centurion's -- In our judgment the circumstantial evidences are strong

that this centurion was Cornelius. R1922:6, 2132:2
A captain of the Roman guard. R3755:3, 2620:2, 1922:1
All three of the centurions mentioned in the New Testament were evidently
reverential: this one; the one who put Jesus to death and subsequently
declared, "Surely this man was the Son of God"; and Cornelius, the first
Gentile convert. (Matt. 27:54; Acts 10:1) R3755:4
Servant -- One lesson connected with this subject which should
especially commend itself to any of the Lord's people who are masters or
employers is the lesson of kindness for servants. R2620:6
Masters and servants in olden times occupied a much closer relationship to
each other than they do today, a relationship which took on more of
paternal sentiment. R2620:1
The employer, under present conditions, feels no responsibility for the
employee. All discern that this division between the interest of masters
and servants stands closely related to the great time of trouble which now
impends. R2620:1
Dear unto him -- So loved, that he went to much trouble to secure his
healing. R1922:3
Luke 7:3
He sent -- The fact that it was not presented personally is presumed not
to signify any lack of respect, but the very reverse, a realization on his
part that Jews were not to having any dealings with Gentiles, except along
strictly business lines. R2620:3
The elders -- Not the elders of the Synagogue, but the chief men of the
city. R3755:4
Of the Jews -- Realizing that, as a Gentile, he could have no special
claim upon this Jewish prophet. R3755:4
Luke 7:4
They -- Jairus, the ruler of the synagogue in Capernaum, with others.

R4588:3, 2620:3
Luke 7:5
He loveth our nation -- Testifying that although he was not a Jew, he

was a noble character, a lover of Israel. R3755:4
Built us a synagogue -- Evidencing his feelings of reverence for God and
love for righteousness and truth. R1922:3
Or, house of worship and Bible study. Its ruins described in detail in
article. R2581:2
Evidently respecting the religion of the Jews. R2620:3
In which he himself could not engage, because a Gentile. R3755:4
The ruins of which are supposed to have been found recently and described
in the article by Edersheim. R2620:3
The ruins of this synagogue show that great wealth was expended in its
elaborate carvings of cornices, tablets, capitals and niches. R2620:2,
2581:2
Luke 7:6
Went with them -- Possibly toward Caesarea, about 45 miles away, with
Nain being on the way, about 20 miles from Capernaum. R1922:6
The centurion -- Possibly Cornelius, "A devout man and one that feared
God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people and prayed to
God alway." (Acts 10:2) "Them that honor me, I will honor." (1 Sam. 2:30)
R1922:6, 2620:6, 2123:3
Sent friends -- Not servants. R2620:3
I am not worthy -- He was like the Syro-Phoenician woman who desired a
crumb from the children's table without claiming to be one of the
children. R3755:4
We, too, should concede that we have nothing of right or of merit to
demand, that we should approach the Lord from the standpoint of unworthy
suppliants, seekers of grace and mercy, not justice, at his hands. R3755:5
That thou shouldest enter -- According to Jewish custom, a certain
measure of defilement would be implied. R3755:5, 2620:3
Luke 7:7
Say in a word -- Let all the Lord's people, instead of requiring signs
and further evidences and assurances, rest content that he who has so
graciously done for us in the past is equally faithful today and will
fulfill to us all his good promises. R2620:4
Possibly he had heard of the healing of the son of the nobleman of his own
city, Capernaum, when Jesus was at Cana and merely spoke the word. R3755:5
Luke 7:8
Go, and he goeth -- Recognizing Jesus, as the Lord's anointed, had

control over the influences of nature as his servants, so that he could
bid the disease go from the servant and he should be well. R3755:6, 2620:4
Luke 7:9
He marvelled -- Only in one other place do we read that Jesus

"marvelled," and that was at the instance of the people of Nazareth. (Mark
6:6) R3755:6
Turned him about -- Having already started toward the Centurion's house,
he discontinued his journey and instantly granted the healing of the
servant. R1922:6
So great faith -- Nevertheless he could not and did not invite the
centurion to become one of his disciples, because "the gifts and callings
of God were not things to be repented of." (Rom. 11:29) R2620:5
It is certainly within the range of possibility that this centurion might
have been removed from Capernaum to Caesarea, another fortress, and may
have been the centurion named Cornelius, the first Gentile convert. R2620:5
No, not in Israel -- Where he had much more reason to expect it. R1922:5
Indicating that the Lord's favor had been confined to Israel not merely
because of worthiness and faith. R2620:5
Luke 7:11
The day after -- Soon afterward (Revised Version). R3756:1

Nain -- About 20 miles from Capernaum. R1922:6
Luke 7:12
Dead man -- In the great prison-house of death. R3755:1
Luke 7:13
Had compassion -- We have an High Priest who can touched, was touched
and is still touched with a feeling of our infirmities. (Heb. 4:15) R3530:3
Luke 7:14
They -- The pall-bearers. R3756:1
Luke 7:14
Arise -- Greek, egeiro, to awaken, arouse, stir (Liddell and Scott).

This word is used in speaking of the temporary awakenings of our Lord's
miracles. R1512:2
These restorations of a faint spark of life are never called a
resurrection (Greek, anastasis) in the Scriptures. R360:2
Luke 7:15
He that was dead -- Having died, paid the penalty, he was not free from
death after Jesus restored life to him, but died again. R392:1
Foreshadowing the resurrection. R4603:4
Luke 7:16
A fear on all -- A reverential fear. R1923:1::

The very thought of the imminence of God is very sure to bring awe to
mankind as they realize the holiness, the absolute perfection of the
Almighty, and their own blemishes and imperfections in contrast. R3756:1
They glorified God -- Not with loud hosannas, but with a reverent
appreciation of the fact that a great Prophet, a great Teacher, was in
their midst, and that God was thus with them. R3756:2
God hath visited -- That, in him, God had visited his people to bless
them with his love and grace. R1923:4
A realization that God was very near to them as represented in the power
of Jesus. R3756:1
Luke 7:17
Throughout all Judea -- As the fame of Jesus increased, because of his

miracles and teaching, the opposition to him became more and more
pronounced, especially from the Chief Priests, Scribes and Pharisees, as
they were brought into competition and unfavorable comparison with him as
public teachers. R1735:3
Luke 7:19
John -- Signifies "The favor of God." R4940:2

Then in prison, about 120 miles from where Jesus was laboring so
successfully. R2620:6
We are to be copies of Jesus, not of John the Baptizer. R2621:5
To be shut up in a dark dungeon, and to have the Lord proceeding with his
work, raising no voice of protest on his behalf and exercising none of his
mighty power for his deliverance, probably seemed very strange to John.
R2621:1
Notwithstanding the great disappointment he felt, his faith continued in
its firm hold on the Lord, as is indicated in his sending of his disciples
to Jesus. R2621:1
The proper course of all God's servants when perplexed is the one followed
by John, namely to go to the Lord with the perplexity--not doubtingly, but
inquiringly--and be set at rest by his word. R2621:3
He that should come? -- Seeking a sign that he was the true Messiah,
then present. R712:4
For another -- For a still greater Messiah of whom even you are but a
forerunner. R2621:1
Luke 7:20
Look we for another -- Strictly speaking, this was exactly the case.
Jesus, in the flesh, was indeed the forerunner and preparer of the way
before the still greater glorified Christ of the second advent. R2621:1
Luke 7:21
In that same hour -- While John's messengers were with Jesus, a number
of miracles were performed in their sight. R2621:2
Luke 7:22
Jesus answering said -- Calling attention to transpiring events, the

fulfillment of their own Scriptures as proof that he was the Messiah. He
might have said: "I am he." An imposter might have made the same claim.
Jesus called their attention to evidence such as would convince them of
the truth of his claim. R821:3*
And tell John -- We may not always hear the Lord's words with our own
ears, but we can receive it second-hand as did John--through the
testimonies of the apostles and prophets, by whose writings God has
provided in advance replies to all proper queries. R2621:4
What things ye have seen -- Another pointed proof of his own identity
with the predicted Messiah. R1736:3
Similar manifestations will accompany Jesus' second presence in this
world. Since now he is a spiritual being, we might expect he would use
human agencies as his channels and, in harmony with other parts of his
plan, it is now on a higher plane R712:4.
The blind see -- Are not eyes and ears long closed by prejudice,
superstition and human tradition being opened? R712:4
It should not, and does not, surprise us that now both phases of healing,
spiritual and physical, are in progress and being blessed, each to its
class. Notice that physical healings now, as at the first advent, are not
performed upon the saints, but upon those not consecrated to sacrifice.
R712:2
The lame walk -- Are not those who have long been lame, and who have
halted between the service of God and the devil, been healed by the truth?
R712:4
The gospel is preached -- Is not the gospel, "good tidings," being
preached to the poor and to them that have no money? R712:4
Luke 7:23
Be offended -- Made to stumble. R821:3*
Luke 7:24
Were departed -- So that his words could not be construed as a sop of

flattery to hold John's confidence. R2622:1
Unto the people -- The multitude who stood about must have heard the
message which John's disciples brought to Jesus, and no doubt queried
within themselves, if not audibly, Is John losing faith in Jesus as the
Messiah? R2622:1
A reed -- Because God spoke through him as a Prophet as the wind makes
music through the reeds. R5031:1
Shaken with the wind -- Pliable to those who would influence him. No,
they found a rugged character, strong, independent in the advocacy of the
truth. R4595:1, 2622:1
Luke 7:25
In soft raiment -- Giving evidence of being related to the great, the

wealthy, the noble of that time. No, he was simply clad, living in
seclusion. R4595:1
Luke 7:26
More than a prophet -- A special ambassador and messenger of God at this

God's chosen servant for heralding the Messiah to Israel. R4594:3
Luke 7:27
My messenger -- His message was that the kingdom of heaven was about to
be offered to them, and that only the holy would be ready to receive it.
R5031:1
Neither John nor his hearers fully realized in what way the kingdom would
be offered, namely, that it would be an offer, first of a place or share
in the kingdom, and that the terms would be full consecration to the Lord.
R5031:1
Prepare thy way -- For those able to appreciate the matter, John the
Baptist did a work which was in full accord with the prophecy which
declared Elijah must first come and do a reformatory work before Messiah
would come. R5030:6
Luke 7:28
Not a greater -- It would be difficult to express in words a higher

tribute to John the Baptist. R5030:2
Attesting that John the Baptist was the last of the ancient worthies, the
last prophet, the last of the faithful under the Jewish dispensation.
R5859:2, 4940:2, 4595:4
Because none of them was entrusted with a more important service of the
Lord. R4112:6
A great holy man; he will have a great reward of being one of the glorious
princes on the earthly plane. R5069:2
Prophet -- Proclaimer. R4112:3
He was supernaturally guided in the course he took. R2621:5
He was also a special ambassador of God to do an introductory work related
to the Kingdom. R2622:1, 1737:4
John the Baptist-- John's mission was pre-eminently that of a reformer.
R2621:5
The last of the prophets, he introduced Jesus as the Head of the kingdom
class. R5030:6
He that is least -- To have the humblest position in the Church class,
in the Bride class being selected during this age, is a higher honor than
that which belongs to the very noblest of the previous dispensations.
SM251:2
John does not belong to the kingdom class at all, but to the previous
The kingdom of God -- God had promised a Messianic kingdom, and Jesus
had come that he might be the Head of that kingdom. "To him that
overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I overcame
and am set down with my Father in his throne" (Rev. 3:21). These would be
followers in his footsteps, none could precede him. R5030:3
The spiritual phase of the Kingdom. A288; R1737:4
Greater than he -- John could not be of the Kingdom class. His grand
work terminated before the Redeemer's sacrifice was finished. R4940:2,
4653:5
This applies to the entire class of ancient worthies. It refers not merely
to the earthly status of the Gospel church as being superior, but also
marks the church as a superior class in the future. R4653:1
In God's providence their reward will be different from that of the
Church--theirs will be an earthly reward. R5030:3
They will come forth as perfect human beings as a reward of their
faithfulness. God promised them the earthly perfection, while he has
promised the bride of Christ the heavenly perfection. R5030:5
This does not imply that the ancient worthies will be disappointed; their
cup of blessing, being full, and never having been begotten to a spirit
nature, they will not be able to comprehend or appreciate any blessings
higher than their own. R5030:6
None, prior to Jesus' time, manifestly, could have been invited to "follow
in his steps." (1Pet. 2:21) R5774:6
Therefore greater also than Enoch, Abraham, etc.; not because they were
more worthy than these, but that the opportunity of becoming members of
the house of sons has been granted only since Pentecost. R5775:1, 5030:3
While we draw lessons from the experiences of the noble characters of the
past, our patterns are Jesus and his apostles, whom we are to
copy--walking in their footsteps in the narrow way of self-sacrifice even
unto death. R3248:5
The least one in the house of sons is on a higher plane than the greatest
one in the house of servants. R2562:3, 5775:1,2, 2622:2
Greater than the entire class of Ancient Worthies. R4653:1
We are not to infer that those glorious characters who lived before Christ
were less faithful than the Gospel Church. R5030:3
In justice God could not show any preference; but by grace he may do what
he will with his own. R5069:4
Because only from the time of Christ has the prize of joint-heirship with
the Lord been open. T108
"God having provided some better thing for us." (Heb. 11:40) F86; R5030:5,
4595:4, 3248:5
As Christ was to have the pre-eminence in the Kingdom, it was necessary
that he should be the first member of it. F86; R5030:2
Only those justified to life could be invited to the high calling, and
John died before the sacrifice of the atonement had been completed. D625;
F112; R4653:5, 4940:2, 5774:6
Luke 7:29
And the publicans -- Being cast off from the sympathies and friendship
of the Jews in general, they were naturally less influenced by their
Justified God -- Making manifest his justice. R1246:3
Luke 7:30
Rejected -- Jesus testified, "If ye had received John ye would have

received me." R5031:4
Luke 7:32
Like unto children -- Having no interest in what was going on. R1737:1
Market-place -- Greek, agora, root of agorazo, to redeem. E429
Ye have not wept -- No matter what kind of evidence was produced, they
were so out of harmony with the truth, that they objected to everything
which our Lord did. R1737:1
Luke 7:33
Neither eating nor drinking -- John lived a very abstemious life. R2621:5
Wine -- The word is oinos, and signifies grape wine of the usual sort,
which always intoxicates when used to excess. R509:4
Luke 7:34
Eating and drinking -- He attended wedding feasts and banquets made in

his honor. R2621:5
Luke 7:35
Wisdom -- The divine wisdom, divine truth. R1737:1

Is justified -- Proved right, accepted. R1737:1
Of all her children -- Those who have the spirit or disposition of the
truth are not slow to understand the evidences nor to accept the facts.
R1737:1
Luke 7:36
One of the Pharisees -- Who believed on Jesus, but did not confess the
Lord lest he should be put out of the synagogue, for he "loved the praise
of men more than the praise of God." (John 12:43) R2201:1
Desired him -- Evidently considerably impressed with our Lord's
character and teachings, and more favorably inclined toward him than the
majority. R2625:6
favorite with the Pharisees. R1459:6
Not that Simon was a disciple and believer, but rather that, as a
prominent man, he posed as a liberal one also. R3761:1
But when they found that he received sinners and ate with them, they
realized that his righteousness was different from theirs, and they hated
him. R1460:1
Luke 7:37
A woman -- Possibly Mary of Magdala, but surely not Mary of Bethany.

R3761:2, 2200:3
Scholars are generally coming to the opinion that it is a mistake to
suppose that Mary Magdalene had ever been an unchaste woman--a mistake to
identify her with this woman at the house of the Pharisee. R2797:4
Of the city -- Evidently a common character, widely known to the people
of the city, though she might not be known to Jesus and the disciples, who
were not residents. R2626:2
Which was a sinner -- A harlot, deeply penitent. R5032:5
The Gospel of Christ is the message of divine compassion toward sinners.
The Bible, of all the religious books we know, alone tells of a God
touched with the feeling of human infirmities and with sympathy toward
sinners. R5032:1
An alabaster box -- Our alabaster boxes of perfume, our daily endeavors
to serve and please him who has done so much for us. R3762:4
It was about a year and a half after the incident here related before the
other anointing of Jesus by Mary, the sister of Lazarus, took place in the
house of Simon the Leper. (Compare Matt. 26:6-13.) R2625:3
Luke 7:38
Stood at his feet -- Privacy in the home is still unusual in the East.
Neighbors, friends and visitors feel at liberty to come and go as they
please, sometimes coming in to converse with the guests while dinner is
being served. R3761:2
Weeping -- Without our recognition of our sins and of his forgiveness we
could bring nothing acceptable to him. R3762:4
To wash his feet -- As was sometimes done with dignitaries of that time.
R5032:5 It is not our privilege or opportunity to anoint the Head of the
body, the Lord Jesus. With us the privilege remains of anointing the feet
members of the body of Christ, and day by day we are tested along this
very line. R3762:6
With tears -- By her tears he should know, more eloquently that she
could voice her sentiments in words, what were the true longings of her
heart for forgiveness and for reconciliation. R2626:3
How merciful and considerate of our needs is the Lord's provision that
when we come penitently to his feet for forgiveness, he can read our
hearts and accepts our tears and even our humblest efforts to make amends.
R2626:3
Kind words and looks, a little assistance, may be the tears or the
perfume, as circumstances may permit. R3762:6
Many, who would resent well-meant efforts to wash their feet as
interferences with their private business, would be very amenable if
approached by such evidences of true devotion and loving interest as would
be symbolized by tears. R2202:4
With the hairs -- Her tears having fallen quite contrary to her
intention, and dishonoring the very feet she intended to honor, she
loosened her hair, using it as a towel, entirely regardless of the fact
that for a woman at that time it was considered dishornorable to let down
her hair in public. R5032:5
Kissed his feet -- Repeatedly, so implied in the Greek text. R3761:2
Anointed them -- As an honor to the One from whom she had heard
"wonderful words of life," words of divine compassion and pity for
sinners, words of hope for herself. R5032:5
Luke 7:39
When the Pharisee -- A holiness professor. R3762:3

We see Simon indifferent because he felt his sin was less, the woman
repentant because she felt her sin was great. R3761:5
Would have known -- Thinking that Jesus evidently did not know her
character and therefore is permitting her to anoint his feet. This seems a
proof that he is not a prophet. R2626:3
The Pharisee seems to have entertained no thought of impurity on the part
of our Lord, or that there was any acquaintance between him and the sinful
woman who did him honor. R3761:3
Although Jesus recognized the woman as a sinner, he had compassion upon
her, especially in view of the evidence she gave of shame, contrition and
She is a sinner -- When the Pharisees found that he received sinners,
they began to realize that his righteousness was of a different sort from
theirs, and, as darkness is opposed to light, they hated him. R1460:1
Some noble characters, like Simon the Pharisee, know not how much they
miss; they realize not that some of their more blemished neighbors receive
forgiveness, which they lack, not sufficiently humble in heart to make the
request. R3761:6
Luke 7:40
Simon -- A Pharisee. R2625:6

A very common name amongst the Jews. Hence it is not remarkable that there
were two Simons at whose home Jesus was entertained. It is a little
peculiar that at both of them our Lord's feet were anointed. (Matt.
26:6-13) R2625:3
Luke 7:41
The one 500 -- Representing the woman, living in open violation of the
Law. R2626:5, 3761:4
And the other 50 -- Representing Simon, trying to keep the Law. R2626:5,
3761:4
Not that Mary was ten times as guilty before the divine law as was Simon.
Strictly speaking, both owed the same amount, the lives of both were
forfeited because of sin. The ratio does not represent Jesus' view of the
situation, but illustrates the sentiments of Mary and Simon. R2200:3
Luke 7:42
Forgave them -- Greek, karazomai; nearly the same meaning as pardon,

signifying to forgive freely. E462; R1058:5, 324:4
It is not Jehovah, but Christ and the disciples who do the free forgiving.
R324:4, 1058:6; E463
Love him most -- Zeal is the measure of love. R3830:4
Luke 7:43
I suppose that he -- Up to this moment not realizing the bearing of the

parable upon his own case and that of the woman--that he represented the
debtor owing fifty pence and the woman, the greater sinner, owing five
hundred. R3761:4, 2626:4
To whom he forgave -- Greek, karazomai, pardoned. E462; R324:4, 1058:6
Luke 7:44
Unto Simon -- From God's standpoint, undoubtedly Simon was in a better

attitude than this sinful woman--he was nearer to God and to
righteousness; but he also must depend for divine mercy for forgiveness,
as had the woman. R3761:5, 2626:5
This woman -- Her greater love was developed by a greater realization of
sin and a greater desire to be relieved from it. R2626:4
I entered into thine house -- Simon treated him kindly and politely, but
did not go to any extreme of politeness in his entertainment; perhaps
thinking of him as not being used to special attentions. R2625:6
Gavest me no water -- As is customary in that land to those one desired
to honor. R5032:6, 3762:2
For the washing of the guest's feet, uncomfortable by reason of travel
along the dusty roads of that time. R2200:6
Nor send his servant to take off the Master's sandals, and wash his feet.
R2626:1
It could not be that Simon had accidentally omitted these courtesies, for
all Pharisees were punctilious on the subject of washings; nor need we
suppose that it was an intentional slight put on our Lord. R2201:1
To prevent the thought that he had anything more than a general interest
and curiosity respecting Christ, and to maintain the good opinion of his
co-religionists, he entertained Jesus as an inferior. R2201:1
Simon, as a wealthy and prominent man, knew all this, and would doubtless
have followed the ordinary custom had his guest been one in high social
standing; but his invitation had been of a patronizing sort. R3762:2
But she hath -- The still greater attentions of the woman, and the still
greater marks of respect which she showed, were evidences that, while they
both loved, the woman loved the more. R2626:4
Mary, at this time, had no knowledge of the extent to which the Master
would go on her behalf and ours, to redeem us from sin and its sentence of
death--Calvary was then still in the future. R2201:2
Washed my feet -- It is still possible to wash and to anoint the Lord's
feet. The Lord is still in the flesh, representatively; his faithful are
to be esteemed "members of his body." (Eph. 5:30; Col. 1:24) R2201:2
As members of the feet class, many are weary, discouraged, needing rest,
refreshment and comfort, such as was bestowed upon the literal feet of the
Master. R2201:3
With tears -- It is the sympathetic ones that are most successful in
helping the various members of the Body of Christ out of the difficulties,
besetments and defilements which will always be theirs so long as they are
in the world. R2202:4
Luke 7:45
Gavest me no kiss -- As is customary amongst friends, as it is now our

custom to shake hands. R2200:6, 5032:6, 3762:2
Luke 7:46
Thou didst not anoint -- With special guests, sometimes perfumed

ointments for the hair and toilet were provided. R2201:1
Anointed my feet -- How few pour upon one another the spikenard ointment
of comforting words, helpful suggestions and encouragements. R2201:4
Luke 7:47
Which are many -- A sin is a sin, a violation of divine law, whether in

a great or lesser matter. We are not to understand that in God's sight
there is any difference as to enormities of sin, but that some are more
deeply involved in it than others. R3761:4
Are forgiven -- Not that our Lord loves less those who are more moral,
but when the moralist spurns divine favor and ignores his own blemishes,
and when the degraded, realizing their sins, cry out for mercy, the
contrite heart is more acceptable to God than the other. R3762:1
Although Jesus knew what was in man he was very charitable, which leads us
to suppose that if we were perfect we would be all the more charitable
towards sinners, though not at all sympathetic with sin. R5032:4
She loved much -- Her greater love was developed by a greater
realization of sin and a greater desire to be relieved from it. R2626:4
Those who are helpful to one another will be found filled with a genuine
love for the "Head," the "body," and even the "feet." The secret of their
love, as in Mary's case, will be found in a large appreciation of their
own imperfections and of the Lord's mercy and grace toward them in the
forgiveness of their sins. R2201:4
The majority of those who love the Lord most are such as realize their own
sinful and fallen condition most. R5032:6
Loveth little -- The secret of the difference of sentiment lay in the
fact that Simon loved him little, and that Mary loved him much. R2201:1
Having less to be forgiven, he had been less appreciative of the privilege
of forgiveness. R3762:3
Those who are most moral, and therefore might be said to have less to be
forgiven, have correspondingly less love. But this should not be the case.
The less degraded ought naturally to be more able to love and appreciate
divine goodness. R5032:6
Little is forgiven -- Frequently we see people living moral lives,
evidently seeking to walk in the paths of righteousness, much less
prepared to accept forgiveness through the Lord Jesus Christ than are some
others who have been living more carelessly. R2626:6
Luke 7:48
Thy sins are forgiven -- The woman was justified, her sins forgiven,
while the Pharisee, with really fewer sins, was unforgiven because he had
not appealed for forgiveness, nor appreciated properly his need therefor.
R3761:5
On the strength of his covenant and sacrifice he had authority to tell the
woman that her sins were forgiven, because he was making the Atonement
which would be applicable to her. R5033:4
It was one of his unostentatious methods of calling attention to the fact
that he was the Messiah, and that as such, and in view of this work which
he has yet to do, all power to forgive sins was in his hands. R2627:1
Every other hope, every other blessing, is based upon this one--the
forgiveness of our sins. R3762:4
Her prayer was answered; all the past was treated as forever blotted out.
R2626:5
As the Messiah, and in view of the work he was yet to do, all power to
forgive sins was in his hands. R2627:1, 2583:6
The ransom price for the sins of the whole world was already on the altar.
R1921:3
A blessed illustration of the Lord's sympathy for those who come to him
accepting his mercy, love and forgiveness, however unworthy they may be.
R3761:3
Forgiveness must be the first message to each one of us; otherwise we
could have no peace, joy, or hope of a glorious future. R3762:3
The broken and contrite heart is more acceptable to God and justified
rather than the other. R3762:1
Jesus was in the very act of paying the ransom-price. R324:4; E463;
4981:2, 3730:5, 1058:6
Luke 7:49
Who is this -- The only satisfactory answer is that he is the one he

professes to be, the Son of God, the Redeemer of the world. R5033:1
Luke 7:50
Thy faith -- It was not the woman's works that saved her, nor the
ointment, nor the tears, nor the kiss--it was the faith. But faith must
work. If it does not work, it is a sure sign that it is dead. R3762:5,
2627:1
Tears and offerings could avail us nothing except as we present to the
Lord our faith, accepting him as the one who has power to forgive sins and
to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. R2627:4
True faith produces worship and praise. These conditions will surely
manifest themselves, as did the woman's, by tears, by services to the feet
of the Master, by an anointing of the most precious perfume that we can
bring. R3762:5
Go in peace -- None but the forgiven know the peace of God. Their peace
will be in proportion to their faith, and their faith in proportion to
their knowledge. R3762:5
Luke 8
Luke 8:1
Glad tidings -- Thus far, only to God's servants; but it shall be to

all. R5370:3
The same good tidings that were heralded by the angels at Jesus' birth.
R5370:3
Of the kingdom of God -- This is the key to all the preaching that Jesus
did; his one message was the good tidings of the Kingdom of God. R5370:2
Not only was the Kingdom the topic with which the Lord began his public
ministry, but it was really the main topic of all his preaching, other
subjects being mentioned merely in connection with, or in explanation of,
this one subject. A274
The very center and essence of the hope of the Church and the world.
R5370:3
Luke 8:2
Mary -- Apparently a woman of wealth. R5370:6, 2797:5

Called Magdalene -- Not the same woman who washed and anointed our
Lord's feet in the house of the Pharisee. (Luke 7:37) R2797:5
Signifying that this Mary was of, or from, Magdala, a town on the sea of
Galilee. R2797:5
Went seven devils -- The poor woman was in the condition which many are
who are in insane asylums. Her trouble was not organic, but caused by the
harassing of the seven fallen angels who had taken possession of her.
R5370:6
Being set free from their control, she became a very loyal servant of the
Lord. R2173:3
Luke 8:3
The wife of Chuza -- Some suppose Chuza to be the nobleman of John 4:46
who traveled 25 miles from Capernaum to Cana to appeal to Jesus for the
healing of his son, who was at the point of death. R4132:6
Herod's steward -- Or chamberlain, the king's officer. R4132:6
Ministered unto him -- Voluntarily contributing to the Master's support.
R5552:1
The moneys contributed were given to Jesus, and not to the disciples. He
voluntarily shared with them. R3257:2
The disciples evidently never lacked, though it is equally evident that
they never solicited alms. F286
We have no suggestion that he ever took up a collection or in any manner
solicited money. Many think that this is a suggestion that the followers
of Christ should likewise make no appeals for money, but merely use of
their own substance and such other moneys as shall voluntarily be given
unto them. R5370:3
Such voluntary donations made it proper that there should be a common
treasurer for the company, and that he should be of superior business
acumen. R5552:1
His seamless robe, so beautifully representing his own personal
perfection, had probably been a gift from one of these noble women.
R2316:1
Luke 8:4
Much people were gathered -- As the fame of Jesus increased his

opposition became more and more pronounced; especially from the chief
priests, scribes and Pharisees, as they were brought into competition and
unfavorable comparison with him as public teachers. R1735:3 Many of them
illustrated truths not revealed at that time, and hence not understood.
R1742:1
Luke 8:5
A sower -- It is never said, "The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a

sower." There was no Church of Christ, or Kingdom of heaven, until the day
of Pentecost. R97:3*
The work of sowing the word was to prepare them for a place in the
Kingdom. Thus this parable prepares the way for that of the wheat and
tares. This deals with the individual, the other with the Church
collectively. R97:4*
Sow -- First the Jewish wheatfield, then that of Christendom, and not in
heathendom where the Word has never gone. R3764:3
By the way side -- The fields of Palestine are not fenced and the paths
Trodden down -- By life's experiences. R3764:3
And the fowls -- Representing Satan and his agents. R2634:6
The birds of Palestine are so numerous as to be one of the farmer's chief
pests. R3763:2
Luke 8:6
Upon a rock -- Palestine abounds with limestone, which renders the soil
very rich but, when shallow, very hot. R3763:2
It withered away -- Under the hot sun of persecution. R5650:5, 4910:5
Luke 8:7
Among thorns -- There are fifty kinds of thorny plants in Palestine, and
the thistles sometimes grow to a height of 15 feet. R3763:2
Luke 8:8
An hundredfold -- A single grain of barley has been known to produce a

fruitage of 276 grains. R3763:2
Luke 8:10
Unto you -- The Little Flock, the faithful, the saints. NS524:2
So constituted through acceptance of Christ, consecration to him, and
begetting of the holy Spirit. NS598:1
The meek, honest and faithful of God's people only--in God's due time and
way. D614
Not only to the disciples of that day, but to the disciples all through
the age. R1742:1
The wise who will understand the mysteries of the Kingdom of the
Melchizedek Priesthood are not the worldly-wise or great; they are chiefly
the poor of this world, rich in faith. SM13:2
Truth is not intended for all. SM109:2
Not for the blind, not for the deaf, but for those "blessed," favored ones
who have eyes and ears. R2414:5
"Blessed are your eyes for they see, and your ears for they hear." (Matt.
13:16) SM109:2
It is given to know -- At the first advent, the humble Israelites indeed
were not confused, but enlightened; and the same is true now in the second
advent. D599
Passing from grace to grace, and from knowledge to knowledge. SM14:2
Our Lord thus indicated that his disciples should have been able to
interpret this parable, because of their knowledge of the truth it was
designed to illustrate. R1742:1
While "given," it is not given indiscriminately; it is given only to those
of certain character. R4444:6
Those wholly consecrated now, and gladly following the "Lamb whithersoever
he goeth" (Rev. 14:4), know that their Master will continue to give them
meat in due season (Matt. 13:52), both in things new and old, as they are
able to bear it. (John 16:12) R1151:1*
The mysteries -- Even partially. R1149:1*
"The Mystery hidden from past ages and dispensations, but now revealed
unto the saints." (Col. 1:26) SM246:T
The Mystery is this: that God's purpose from the first was that the great
Deliverer should be not only the Lord Jesus, but should include also the
elect Little Flock of this Gospel age. SM246:T
It is proper that the saints should know this Mystery, for now the
strength which this knowledge would give will be of special value in their
combat with the special trials and difficulties immediately before them.
SM246:T
The Pentecostal blessing, evidencing our forgiveness, has reached every
member of the consecrated class to enlighten the eyes of our understanding
and to enable us to see the deep things of God and his gracious promises.
R3590:6
We may tell of these mysteries, knowing that none will be able to
comprehend thoroughly all of these mysteries except such as have taken
several degrees in the Order of the Melchizedek Priesthood. SM14:2
Parables, which illustrated truths, can only be seen as the truths they
illustrate become manifest. R1742:4
"Ye, brethren, are not in darkness that that day should overtake you as a
thief." (1 Thess. 5:4) C215
Israelites indeed, learn precept upon precept, line upon line. (Isa. 28:9,
10) SM109:2
The permission of evil was not understood until the Gospel age, and more
fully in this harvest period; but only by the spirit-begotten. R1506:1 But
to others -- All not members of the inner circle of Israelites indeed.
NS632:3; SM109:2
Not disciples. R72:2
The masses of Christendom. NS307:2
"Them that are without"--outside the pale of the believing disciples,
which included the whole nation of Israel except a small "remnant." R1742:4
We need not be afraid of giving away the secrets of the Lord. SM246:T
In parables -- Not understood by the people who heard them, and which
seem to be but little better comprehended today. HG394:6
Because they are not in the right attitude of heart to properly profit by
the knowledge. NS524:2
Dark sayings. D614
It was not because of Israelitish stupidity that they did not perceive the
antitypes, not because of superiority of acumen that we see them now and
they do not. NS598:1
So that they might fail to perceive the blessings of which they were
proving themselves unworthy. R1742:4
Jesus taught a punishment and trouble now and in the future for the
wicked, but it was always by parable. R1151:1*; A128
That seeing -- They had indeed the natural sight and the natural
hearing, but they lacked the mental sight and hearing. R2414:4
They might not see -- So hard for the Jew to understand, and equally
impossible for the natural man of the Gentiles to comprehend. R3590:6
Our Lord spake in this dark manner with the very intention that the
majority might not understand. NS307:2
Natural men and not new creatures, never begotten of the holy Spirit,
cannot see and understand spiritual things. R3328:4
Might not understand -- Even if we tell it, all cannot hear. SM246:T
"I work a work in your days, a work which ye shall in no wise believe,
though a man declare it unto you." (Acts 13:41) NS632:3
The parables and teachings were not uttered with the intention of making
the blind see and the deaf hear, but purposely so that the deaf might not
hear, and so that the blind might not see. R2414:4
Even now the dark sayings of our Lord are not understood except by his
footstep followers. A128; D614; R2414:4, 1149:1*; SM109:2
Parables can be understood only as the truths they illustrate become
manifest. R1742:4
Luke 8:11
The word of God -- The good seed represents the message of the Kingdom,
not a truth about the philosophies of men, or some scientific truth.
R5736:5
Even as false teaching, human philosophies and doctrines of devils are not
wheat-seed, but tare-seed. R2627:3
Matthew says, "the word of the kingdom." Our Lord, no doubt, used both
expressions. R2628:5
The entire revelation which God has made to us--the Bible. R3764:1, 2627:3
Luke 8:12
By the way side -- Hardened by prosperity, needing the plowshare of

trouble. R3764:3
Their hearts being solid and compact with selfishness; not bad people, but
unsuited to the Lord's present work and call. R2627:3
They that hear -- But into whose hearts it did not enter at all. They
simply heard with the outer ear and forgot. It made no impression. R5736:2
Cometh the devil -- We have so much more to contend with than the
weaknesses of our own flesh and the imperfections of fellow men. F609
Whose very existence is denied by many. F609
Taketh away the word -- Stealing away from them every element of truth
they once had seen. R3764:3
The Adversary would always, if possible, prevent the seed from entering
the heart and taking root. R5736:2
Out of their hearts -- In this parable the field of operation is the
heart of each individual, while in the wheat and the tares the field is
the world. (Matt. 13:38) R97:2*
Luke 8:13
They on the rock -- Having a veneer of outward grace but at heart a

character of selfishness. R2627:5
Receive the word -- At first give evidence of great fruitfulness and
vigor. R2791:2, 5650:5, 4910:4, 3764:4
With joy -- At first very much enthused, but they lack depth of
character. They will not bring forth the fruitage, for they have not
sufficient depth for rooting. They are shallow. R5736:2
Have no root -- They lack depth of character. R5736:2, 5650:5, 3764:4,
2627:5
In time of temptation -- As soon as they find out that the truth is not
popular, they foresee persecution or social ostracism; then their ardor
cools and their interest in the harvest message wanes and gradually dies
out. R5736:2
Fall away -- Not endure. R4910:5, 2791:2
Wither under the sun of persecution. R4910:4, 5736:2, 2791:2, 3764:4,
5650:5
Such cannot be of the Kingdom class. R2791:2, 4910:5, 2627:6
Luke 8:14
Among thorns -- Good ground, with fine prospects for developing the
fruits of the holy Spirit, but it is infested with thorns--not frivolous
pleasures, theater, cards, dancing, etc., but the cares and ambitions of
life, the deceitfulness of riches. R5736:3
Earthly projects and ambitions whose interests conflict with the interests
of the Kingdom. R3764:5
In Palestine these thorns or thistles grow in the very best kind of soil.
R2627:6
Are they -- They may be good business men, fine politicians, or immersed
in some kind of study. Others may be fine housekeepers, having a pride in
how well things are kept, or they may be leaders in society or in works of
reform. R5736:3
And are choked -- The ground, while good, is otherwise occupied, and the
message of the Kingdom and its work are crowded out to a large degree, so
that no fruit is brought to perfection. R5736:3
Riches -- There are but few of the Lord's people that can be trusted
with riches. R2520:2
And bring no fruit -- "Ye cannot serve God and mammon." (Luke 16:13) We
cannot bring forth both thorns and wheat. R3764:5
Luke 8:15
But that -- The truth is represented by the seed, and the individuals
are also represented by the seed. A grain of truth is planted in an honest
heart and it produces a character which is in harmony with that truth.
R5736:5
On the good ground -- This condition represents entire consecration to
God. Everything which would hinder has been cast out. The cares of this
life are not permitted to enter this heart and choke the word. R5736:3
Honest and good heart -- Proper quality or depth of character, honesty
being the most important feature of all. R5736:3, 5
Keep it -- His words should lead to self-examination, as not the hearers
only, but the doers of the Word, are acceptable with God. R1741:3
Bring forth fruit -- Those of this class grow daily in knowledge, in
love, and are building one another up in the most holy faith. R5737:1
Their very best, according to circumstances, conditions and ability.
R5736:5
To the very largest degree of our possibilities, surroundings and
Which will be measured by the degree of our zeal and our love for the
Lord. R2628:4
With patience -- The Greek word hypomonee has a deeper and fuller
significance than attaches to the English word. It signifies rather
constancy--the thought of being an endurance of evil in a cheerful,
willing, patient manner. R2971:1, 4910:4, 3584:3
Patient endurance follows after the receiving and sprouting of the seed,
and is necessary in order that the fruit may be developed and thoroughly
ripened. R5650:5, 4910:5, 2791:2
Luke 8:16
Lighted a candle -- "Ye are the light of the world." (Matt. 5:14) E293;
R3243:2, 2036:3
A measure of light in the world, emanating from our dear Redeemer, and
still shining forth from all those who are truly his. R3686:2, 5769:5
It is "the light that is in you," a light of faith, hope and love ignited
in the heart. R3686:2
Luke 8:16
Covereth it -- If unfaithful in shining for the light under the present

conditions of prevalent darkness, they will not be esteemed worthy of a
place with the glorified faithful in the Kingdom which shall shine forth
as the sun. HG438:6
The extinguishing of their light, the stoppage of their growth, if
persevered in, would mean second death. R2966:5
Luke 8:17
Nothing is secret -- Faithfulness consists in a proper and diligent use

of our gifts in harmony with the divine purpose and methods; and both the
Lord and the Apostle point to a day of reckoning when the secret things
will be brought to light. R1972:3
The day of his presence will bring to light the hidden things of darkness
and make manifest the secret counsels of the heart. (1 Cor. 4:5) R2979:6
That shall not -- In the Millennial age. A303
Be made manifest -- A testimony dreaded but disbelieved by unjust
stewards of wealth and power. C20
The murderer will be faced by his victim, the debtor by his creditor, the
thief by his dupe, the defamer by the one defamed. R1655:1
Luke 8:18
Take heed -- Divine truth, coming to us through the appointed channel of

God's Word, comes with a moral and logical power, proving its authority
and enforcing it with an emphasis which carries warning with it. R2057:3*
How ye hear -- See that your heart is in a right condition to receive
the truth. R2627:3
For whosoever hath -- Hath used. R2496:6
Whosoever hath not -- Hath not used. R2496:6
That which he seemeth to have -- The flood is sweeping away what little
faith nominal Christians have. R2142:5*
Luke 8:21
And my brethren -- In my new family, the "household of faith." (Gal.

6:10) F589
Luke 8:23
He fell asleep -- Evidently thoroughly exhausted with the labors of his

journey and ministry. R3324:3
Came down a storm -- Picturing the experiences of the Church during the
Gospel age, tempest-tossed by the Adversary. R3325:1
Of wind -- The Sea of Galilee is quite subject to such wind storms.
R3324:2 This storm may have been supernatural and of the Adversary.
R3324:4
Luke 8:24
Awoke him -- Tired, weary and asleep. R1063:2*

Raging of the water -- Symbolizing the restless, anarchistic masses. A318
There was a calm -- "Peace be still" (Mark 4:39)--after the time of
trouble. R3325:4, 5058:3,6
Waters lashed to a fury cannot thus be quickly calmed except by a miracle.
R3324:4
Yet he refused to miraculously deliver himself from his captors in
Gethsemane. F650
"He maketh the storm a calm." (Psa. 107:29) R3324:1
Whoever can, by faith, take hold upon the Lord will find a great peace and
calm come into his heart and affairs. R5058:6
Picturing the world's great rest from the evil one for a thousand years.
R3325:4
Luke 8:25
Where is your faith? -- When the adversary brings a whirlwind of

temptation, opposition or persecution, with waves of adversity or
affliction, and the Lord seems heedless, our faith is being tested. R3324:6
We today, by faith, are able to see the Lord with us in the ship, about to
speak peace to the world. R3325:4
Luke 8:27
Which had devils -- Apparently the human will must consent before these
evil spirits have power to take possession. But when they do take
possession apparently the will power is so broken down that the individual
is almost helpless to resist their presence, even though he so desires.
R2173:3
Luke 8:28
Torment me not -- Implying that an interference with their tormenting of

mankind would be an injury to their rights. Similarly today, some men
claim that their rights are interfered with when they are stopped from
pillaging and injuring their fellow-creatures. R3772:2
Luke 8:30
Many devils -- The tendency of fallen spirits to congregate in one

person indicates the desire they have still to exercise the power
originally given them--namely, the power to materialize as men. R2173:3
Luke 8:31
Out into the deep -- Into the abyss, the second death, utter
Luke 8:32
Herd of many swine -- Unclean to the Jew, and unlawful for them to eat.
R2173:3
And they -- Not attempting to palm themselves off as spirits of deceased
human beings. F626
Assuredly these were persons and not merely a disease of the man's mind.
R3772:5
Besought him -- Evidently fallen angels cannot impose themselves upon
even the dumb animals until given some sort of permission. R2173:3
Luke 8:37
Depart from them -- Wherever the true Gospel goes its effect is to cause
uproar and confusion in the kingdom of darkness. R1633:3
Luke 8:38
Might be with him -- "Unto you which believe he is precious." (1 Pet.

2:7) R3773:2
Luke 8:39
Had done unto him -- Our Lord's journey on that occasion seems to have
resulted in the conversion of but one person, the demonic, who then became
the Lord's mouthpiece there. R3773:4
Luke 8:41
He fell down -- Figuratively expressing his homage, obedience and faith.

R4588:5
Besought him -- Here the faith was exercised by another on behalf of the
patient, who, being dead, had no ability to exercise faith. R1939:2
Luke 8:44
Touched...his garment -- Believing in his greatness and power, she

immediately felt the thrill of life and strength in her body like an
electric current. R4588:6
Who touched me? -- Our Lord was full of vital energy, and felt the loss
of it as electricity is drawn from a battery. R4588:6
Luke 8:46
I perceive -- He felt the consequent weakness. R1359:4

Virtue is gone out -- Since he could not suffer pain and sickness
because of sin, he was placed among sinners, where their weaknesses and
pains bore down upon him--he "himself took our infirmities and bare our
sickness." (Matt. 8:17; Isa. 53:4,5) R2000:1
Every cure performed by Jesus served to exhaust his very life forces, yet
he gave himself--spent his life in acts of love and kindness to poor,
fallen humanity. R105:4
the imperfections and sins. R454:3
He impoverished himself to bless others. R1735:4
It is daily more recognized among scientific men that some persons possess
greater vitality than others, and can communicate it to others who have
less, though such are liable to feel for a time the weakness which is
cured in the weaker one. R574:4
Power, vitality, strength, healing vigor. R574:4, 4588:6, 2000:1, 454:3,
105:4
See also comments on 6:19.
Luke 8:47
She came trembling -- Fearful she had stolen a blessing of which she
felt unworthy. R4588:6
Luke 8:49
Trouble not -- Their faith in the power of Jesus was a very weak faith.
When they saw the child was dead all hope departed. They had considerable
faith in Christ, but they did not believe that his power extended to the
raising of the dead. R1939:2
Luke 8:50
Shall be made whole -- Merely an awakening; nowhere styled resurrection.

R5578:3; OV352:1
Not in heaven, purgatory, or hell. R5611:5
Luke 8:52
But sleepeth -- As in the case of Lazarus, our Lord here referred to

death as a sleep, in view of the fact of the resurrection. R1939:4
All the dead are to be reckoned as sleeping, waiting for his return and
his exaltation with his elect bride in glory. R2197:6
The second death, from which there shall be no resurrection, is never
called "sleep" in the Bible. R1939:4
Luke 8:54
He put them all out -- Because they manifested their lack of faith.
While he rewarded their faith, weak though it was, he reproved them also.
R1939:4
Luke 8:55
Her spirit came again -- Simply signifying, "And her breath returned,"
and is so rendered in the Diaglott. The Greek word pneuma, translated
"spirit" in the Common Version, signifies breath, wind, or the spirit or
breath of life. R1939:4
And she arose -- Thus the Lord rewarded even the weak in faith, and gave
them additional and overwhelming evidence to strengthen and establish
their faith. R1939:4
Did not come back from heaven or hell, and was not resurrected, but was
merely awakened out of the sleep of death. Christ was "the first fruits of
them that slept" (1 Cor. 15:20), "the first that should rise from the
dead." (Acts 26:23) R2618:2,4; OV352:1
Foreshadowing or illustrating the resurrection. R4603:4
Luke 9
Luke 9:1
His twelve disciples -- His apostles; specially called and ordained, a

class distinct and separate from other disciples. R1522:3
They were continually under his training, witnesses of his teachings,
personal character, manner of life and miracles; the only ones invited to
partake with him of the last Passover Supper; witnesses of the agonies of
Gethsemane, his betrayal and arrest, his crucifixion, death, burial and
the fact of his resurrection. R1522:3,4
Only "the eleven" were the chosen witnesses of the Lord's ascension.
R1522:5
And gave them power -- Not until they had received considerable
instruction from him were they recognized in their office as apostles and
fully empowered for their special work. R2261:1
Over all devils -- Apparently there were great numbers possessed
throughout the land of Israel. R2173:2
And to cure -- At the expense of Jesus' vitality. R2636:1
Diseases -- Illustrating our present privilege of opening deaf ears and
blind eyes to the knowledge of the Lord's great plan. R2636:4
Luke 9:2
He sent them -- Some little time before sending the seventy, whom he
probably sent in the last year of his ministry. R2674:1
Preach the kingdom -- Not only was the kingdom the topic with which the
Lord began his public ministry, but it was really the main topic of all
his preaching, other subjects being mentioned merely in connection with,
or in explanation of, this one subject. A273
The hope of every Israelite. A273
Luke 9:3
Said unto them -- During our Lord's earthly ministry the work of the
apostles differed nothing from that of the "seventy" (Compare Luke 10:17);
yet they were more directly and continually under his training and were
the chosen witnesses of every remarkable feature and event of his course.
R1522:3
Take nothing -- Not going as travelers, but rather as persons who were
thoroughly at home, and who expected to find a home and the necessities of
life wherever they went. R2261:5
Nor scrip -- That is, no valise or satchel wherein to carry surplus. The
apostles had something to give, but not to sell. R2261:5
Luke 9:4
There abide -- He sent them to a covenant people, whose duty it was to

receive and entertain the messengers of the Lord. Their receiving or
rejecting would be a test of their fidelity to God as his covenant people.
R1988:2
The family would be blessed of the Lord because of the presence of his
The messengers of present truth are not self-seekers, or money-gatherers,
but merely accept, in exchange for the blessings which they confer, enough
financial support to meet their expenses, economically. R2262:1
Luke 9:5
Will not receive you -- They were not to stay in any place where the
Lord's blessing would not be appreciated. R2261:6
Shake off the very dust -- Not as a vindictive expression of hatred, but
rather as a symbolic act implying that they renounced all responsibility
for what the consequences might be. R2262:4
Luke 9:6
And they departed -- Himself going also. R1754:2

And healing -- Merely as foregleams of the blessings which, in fuller
measure, would result from the inauguration of Messiah's Kingdom. R2261:5
Luke 9:10
When they were returned -- The news of John's death and the possible
effect of this sudden outburst of royal wrath seems to have brought them
all together again to take counsel of the Lord. R1754:2
Told him all -- Just so, the Lord would have all his disciples come to
him for counsel, rest and refreshment. "He never asks of us such busy
labor as finds no time for resting at his feet." R1754:3
Went aside privately -- Probably in part for private meditation and
conference with his disciples, who undoubtedly would be greatly agitated
by the news of John's beheading, and needed his calming influence and
assurance that Herod could have no power over them except such as might be
permitted by the Father. R2435:2
Bethsaida -- Just outside the boundary of Herod's dominion. R2435:3,
1754:3
Luke 9:11
He received them -- He could not refrain from giving them his vitality
in curing their ailments, and pouring in the oil and wine of truth, and
satisfying their hungers and thirstings of heart with the good promise of
the Kingdom, and finally providing them natural food; and such should be
the spirit of all the Lord's followers. R2435:3
Our delight will be, not in self-gratification, but chiefly in "doing good
to all men as we have opportunity, especially to the household of faith."
(Gal. 6:10) R2435:5 He is today looking with sympathetic compassion upon
the multitudes of so-called "Christendom" and beholds them, dissatisfied
with the husks of human tradition and philosophy, hungering and thirsting
after righteousness. R2436:1
Luke 9:12
And get victuals -- The people themselves seem to have been so entranced
with the good tidings that they entirely forgot their own necessities.
R2435:5
Luke 9:13
Give ye them to eat -- It is remarkable that the Gospels do not parade

our Lord's generosity and kindness, but content themselves with recording
the simple facts. R2435:3
Seeing the dark night approaching, the Lord today instructs his disciples
to supply them with something to eat--spiritual food, truths pertaining to
the Kingdom, which will afford them some strength and encouragement in the
We should be ready at any time to distribute our store of truth. It should
be sufficient for us to know that someone present is hungering and
thirsting after righteousness. R3333:5
And two fishes -- The Lord takes our time and talents, little and
unworthy as these are, and blesses them and uses them in his service, and
Our Lord's miracles of feeding and healing were performed, not upon the
consecrated disciples, but upon others. R1754:6
Luke 9:14
Five thousand -- The largeness of the company is accounted for by the

fact that it was near the time of the Feast of the Passover, and according
to custom large numbers of the religiously inclined were on their
pilgrimage to Jerusalem. R2435:3
Men -- Besides women and children. R1754:3
Yet at the time of his temptation he refused to miraculously appease his
own hunger. F650
Luke 9:16
And the two fishes -- We offer no objection to those who claim better
health as a result of a purely vegetable diet, but we do object to the
claim of special sanctity on account of it. R3098:3
And looking up -- It is incomprehensible how any consecrated Christian
dare to neglect to render thanks for his daily food. R2643:6, 3780:6,
2644:2
He blessed them -- The giving of thanks did indeed bring a blessing upon
the food. R3780:6
To the disciples -- Representing the Little Flock during the Millennial
age. R3781:4
Though he could have fed the multitude without their help. R2644:4
Similarly, he could feed hungry spiritual Israelites with the harvest
message without our aid, but is pleased to use us as disseminators of the
truth. R2644:4
Luke 9:17
They did eat -- The Lord's miracles of feeding and healing were
performed, not upon his consecrated disciples, but upon others. His
followers were covenanted to share with him in the work of sacrifice.
R1754:6
Were all filled -- Plainness and simplicity of food would not only be
more healthful, but would leave much more time for the spiritual
refreshment. R3781:1
The skeptics who deny this miracle cannot question but that this grain and
these fishes could in due time, in the course of nature, have brought
forth a harvest sufficient for the 5,000. R3333:2
There was taken up -- A good supply for their future necessities. R2435:5
Of fragments -- Those who receive of the Lord's bounty should be none
the less appreciative of it, and careful in its use. R2435:6
We are not to waste spiritual privileges because they are God's free
gifts. Rather, we are to prize every spiritual morsel and to gather up in
store for future needs of ourselves and others. R2435:6
Not the fragments left by the multitude, but those broken by the Lord and
not distributed. R3781:4
Twelve baskets -- Haversacks, in which the twelve apostles carried their
provision. R2435:5
So that none of God's provision for his people might be wasted. R3333:3
It was those who scattered to others who had their haversacks full in the
end. Those who are most intent upon feeding others the Bread of Life are
themselves most bountifully supplied. R3504:2
Our memories are our haversacks in which we are to gather up in store for
ourselves and others every spiritual morsel. R2435:6
Luke 9:20
Whom say ye -- The teaching of Jesus was chiefly by induction. R5767:5

Peter -- Probably the oldest of the disciples and their spokesman.
R3339:6
The Christ of God -- The word Christ or kristos is a Greek word,
introduced into our English language, but not translated into it. Its
translation is anointed. R270:2, 134:2
Jesus was always his name, but from the time of his baptism, when the holy
Spirit descended upon him and anointed him as the High Priest, his title
has been "The Anointed." R270:2, 134:2
Jesus was frequently called by this title instead of by his name; as
English people most often speak of their sovereign as "the Queen," instead
of calling her by her name. R270:2, 134:3
As Jesus was the "anointed one," we also, the Church of Christ, have the
same anointing of the Spirit, as members of his Body. R134:3, 270:3
He indicated that Jesus was the son of God, not the son of Joseph. R5767:5
Luke 9:21
Tell no man -- The Lord preferred to give the people the evidences,
rather than the assertions, of his Messiahship, and to let the logic of
his mighty works lead them to the only reasonable conclusions. R1939:2
Because it might interfere with the divine program respecting his
crucifixion, either hastening or hindering it. R3790:1
Luke 9:22
Must suffer -- Even with this forewarning, the faith of most of those
who believed proved very superficial. They were swayed in judgment by the
opposition of their leaders, and only a few stood firm in the midst of the
trials following. R1939:3
Testings of faith and loyalty to God are as necessary to Jesus' followers
as they were to himself--to develop and crystallize character. PD76:4/90
Consequently if any followed him from wrong motives, the trial coming
would sweep them away. R1939:2
Luke 9:23
If any man -- Already a disciple. R3235:6

If we turn aside from the path of humiliation and daily cross-bearing, and
strive for present exaltation and preferment, we are forgetting the very
conditions upon which the future exaltation depends. R1988:2
Will come after me -- He had showed them how he must suffer, and that,
if they would follow him and continue to be his disciples, they must do as
he did. R1939:5
Will follow my example. Our Lord's life was an illustration. R3790:3,
5654:1, 4557:4
As sheep. R5654:1
Let him deny himself -- Sacrifice himself, his personal interests and
ambitions. R3846:4, 4557:4
Kill his will outright, not merely hack and mutilate it. This is not and
must not be a cross. The desire to give up our will and accept God's will
must be a pleasure, or God will take no joy in our service. "I delight to
do thy will, O my God." (Psa. 40:8) R5654:1, 5719:2, 3237:1,2; Q399:T
"If we be dead with him we shall also live with him." (2 Tim. 2:11) R2615:6
"Blest Savior, Thou knowest the weakness of man; With strength that thou
givest, we answer, We can." R401:4*
Take up his cross -- At the very beginning of our course we each found
the cross confronting us. Had we not taken it up we would not have been
accounted worthy even to look with intelligent appreciation into the
precious truths of God's plan. R3103:6
Having counted the cost of discipleship. R3235:6, 3236:4
The trials, difficulties, disappointments, the crossing of the human will
made necessary by the doing of God's will under present unfavorable
conditions. R3236:4, 3237:3
Being sacrificed of earthly interests. Q399:T
As soon as we take hold of the cross and put forth our efforts, our Lord
lifts the real weight of it. R3236:6, 5222:4
And follow me -- Who has set an example, to live separate from the
world, to live for God and the truth and for the blessing of fellowmen.
SM383:2
The difference between the masses of nominal Christians and the true
Christian is that the latter take the name Christian to mean followers of
Christ, and not merely to mean respectable and moral people. NS263:2
This Kingdom class must all be footstep followers of Jesus. R4754:4
"Walk not after the flesh but after the spirit." (Rom. 8:4) R3237:5
Luke 9:24
Lose his life for my sake -- The Greek word is psuche, signifying
existence or being. R248:6; E336
Our Lord's human life and restitution rights, applied "for us," give us by
faith those rights, as a loan, on condition that we do not keep them, but
follow his example and sacrifice them, that God might reward the sacrifice
with the new, spirit nature. R4556:5
Only by sacrificing present interests and life itself can any now obtain
eternal life. R4556:5, 1939:5
Loss of worldly and sectarian life is really gain. R508:5*
The same shall save it -- Faithfulness to our covenant of sacrifice
insures eternal life as spiritual beings, while the repudiation of it
would surely forfeit that life. R1939:6
That we may be members of the Christ--the world's Prophet, Priest, King,
Mediator. R4556:6
Luke 9:26
Be ashamed of me -- Ashamed to confess themselves his followers; ashamed

to own his "brethren," the members of his Body. E237; R3777:1, 3776:3
To know the Song of Moses and not to sing it, to understand the good
tidings and not to proclaim them, would mean fear, shame or lack of zeal,
any of which would be quite sufficient reasons for losing a knowledge of
the Song. NS636:5
As of one unfit for the Kingdom--unfit to be entrusted with so great
power, honor and glory, and with immortality. R4115:3
It is not a matter of favoritism, but of character-development. If they
will not endure to the end, if they do not prove overcomers, they will not
be fit for the Kingdom and association with their Lord. R5669:4
The Lord is still present in the world in the flesh--in the flesh of his
consecrated members. The world is still ashamed of Christ. R3776:6
Love for the brethren means love for the Lord. "He that despiseth you
despiseth me; he that rejected you rejecteth me and him that sent me."
(Luke 10:16) R3777:1
And of my words -- Ashamed to confess the doctrines which he taught.
E237; R5120:4
The Bible and the literature which expounds and illustrates it. The Lord
puts his Word on a parity with himself--his representative. R3777:4,
3776:3, 2597:4, 2430:5 The teaching of the great Teacher and of his chosen
twelve apostles is to be the kriterion or rule of judgment (Greek: krino)
to his followers. R2430:5
Not addressing those who burn the Bible, or do not have one, or neglect to
read it, or fail to take their texts from it, or quote it incorrectly, but
those who in their hearts are ashamed of the Word of God, and give
evidence of that shame by failing to take a stand in support of the truth.
R3777:1
The Word of God is not merely the Bible, but it includes sermons, tracts,
books, etc., in proportion as they contain and truly represent the message
of God's dear Son. R3777:4
The Son of man -- The seed of Adam, through Eve; the Son of the Man.
E152, 153; R944:1
Be ashamed -- Not fit for the Kingdom. R2966:5, 5669:4, 4967:6, 4115:3,
3777:1
One must not, cannot, keep silence nor put their light under a bushel. If
they do, it means the extinguishment of their light and the stoppage of
their growth. R2966:5
Will not own them as members of his Bride Class. R4967:6
When he makes up his jewels (Mal. 3:17) at his second coming. E237
When he shall come -- In the Kingdom of God. C302
Of the holy angels -- "The Lord cometh with ten thousand of his saints."
(Jude 14) C302
"The Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels [the
saints, his holy messengers] with him." (Matt. 25:31) C302
Luke 9:27
See the kingdom -- A prophecy which received almost immediate

fulfillment. R1761:1
Little did the disciples imagine that our Lord's statement would be
fulfilled within six days to Peter, James and John in the Mount of
Transfiguration. R2288:3
He did not explain to them whether they would see the Kingdom in reality
established in eight days, or whether they would see a vision of the
Kingdom. R3793:2
Showing clearly that the transfiguration vision, eight days later, was
intended to be a foreshadowing of the glories and honors of the Kingdom in
some sense of the word. R3793:5
A vision of it, as explained in next nine verses. R3790:5, 1939:6, 1761:1
Luke 9:28
About an eight days -- Six days later; the eight counts the one in which
this was uttered and the one in which it was fulfilled. R2659:1
Peter and John and James -- The Lord showed distinctly his appreciation
of the warm, ardent temperament of these three in the fact that they were
his closest companions. F135
The three most advanced of the Lord's followers. So since then, it is the
most advanced followers, the most humble, zealous and faithful, who are
granted the clearest perceptions of the Kingdom, to reveal to others of
the elect Little Flock. R3794:2, 2659:1
If we would be closest to the Master and most frequently privileged to
have fellowship with him, we should have a similar earnest and zealous
spirit. R2289:3
The three favorite disciples who accompanied the Lord on this occasion and
had also done so on several other occasions. R2289:2
Representatives of the twelve. R3793:6
Into a mountain -- Presumably Mount Hermon. R3793:2
Type of the Kingdom. A318
To pray -- From a comparison of the accounts some have surmised that
possibly the Lord and the apostles remained in the mountain all night, as
Jesus sometimes did. R3793:2
Luke 9:29
As he prayed -- The "vision" came in answer to the Lord's prayer. R1761:4

So all those who seek God in prayer may, to a large extent, with the eye
of faith realize this same blessed vision of the Kingdom. R2660:1
Countenance was altered -- Not changed actually. The change from human
to divine began at his baptism, but did not actually occur until three
days after Calvary, when he was raised from the dead by the glory of the
Father. R3793:6, 2659:5
White and glistering -- Radiant like the sun, as in Rev.
1:14-16. R3794:4
After the manner of angels, the vision thus representing the Lord after
having experienced his resurrection change from earthly to heavenly
conditions. R5121:2
Representing him as no longer the man Christ Jesus, but the risen,
glorified, Son of the Highest. R2659:4
Representing the "Glory to follow" (1 Pet. 1:11), when the sufferings are
all complete. B20; R1761:2
Luke 9:30
There talked -- Probably while the disciples were asleep and, therefore,
specially for his own comfort. R1761:4
With him -- The central figure of the vision was Jesus himself. Moses
and Elias were merely accessories to fill out the picture. R3793:5
The object of the "vision" was probably two-fold: for the comfort and
strengthening of the Lord; and for the enlightenment of his chosen
witnesses. R1761:4
Moses and Elias -- They appeared to be present, but they were not
actually present, because it was merely a "vision." R2659:5, 2288:3, 1761:2
Moses represented the faithful of natural Israel, the "house of servants,"
and Elijah represented The Christ in the flesh, the "house of sons." The
glorified one stood between the Moses class, called previously, and the
Elijah class, which had just begun to be called. R5121:5, 3794:3, 2659:4,
2289:1, 1761:2
Representing the Law and the Prophets. Moses spoke of the sufferings of
Christ in all the arrangements of the Law, its sacrifices, etc., and the
prophets declare not only the coming glories, but also the sufferings
which must precede them. R2659:3
These two, like Jesus, had each fasted forty days: thus, representatively,
they were one with the Lord in a remarkable devotion to the heavenly
Father--in the practice of self-denial. R3794:3
A figure of Moses, representing the Ancient Worthies. F677; B20;
R3794:3,4, 2659:4, 2289:1
A figure of Moses, representing the earthly phase of the Kingdom. R1761:2,
2289:2
A figure of Moses, representing the Mosaic or Law dispensation. B255;
R5772:4, 3794:3
Jesus and the Church, spiritual Israel, their spiritual resurrection shown
by Moses' hidden grave. R4054:4; D629
A figure of Elijah, representing the Gospel age Church. R3794:3; F677;
B20, 252; R2659:4, 2289:1
A figure of Elijah, representing a united work of Christ and the Church.
B255
A figure of Elijah, representing the spiritual or heavenly phase of the
Kingdom. A288; R1761:2
A figure of Elijah, representing the Gospel or Christian dispensation.
B255; R5772:4
Luke 9:31
Appeared in glory -- It was only an appearance, because Christ was the

firstborn from the dead, and neither Moses nor Elias is as yet "made
perfect." (Heb. 11:40) R2659:5, 1761:2; Q761:3; F676
A picture of the glory of the Kingdom. R2659:2
Radiant, but less so than Jesus. R5121:2
Spake of his decease -- Intended for the ears of the disciples to
convince them that the matters which should occur before long on Mount
Calvary would all be features of the divine plan. R2659:3
Intending to assure the apostles respecting the certainty of the Kingdom,
notwithstanding the apparent failure of all Kingdom hopes in our Lord's
Drawing their minds gradually to a realization that his death would not
mean a repudiation of the promise of the Kingdom and its glory. R5121:1
There could have been no Kingdom glory without the redemptive work. But
this vision portrays the Kingdom glories which will ultimately result from
our Lord's death. R2289:1
Not only the ancient ones trusted in a sacrifice to come, but the Gospel
Church trusts in the sacrifice already accomplished for her, and there is
a full communion of fellowship between the two. R3794:4
Illustrating how the death of Christ was fully attested beforehand. Moses
spoke of it in the sacrifices of the Law, and all the Prophets declared it
and the coming glories. (Luke 24:25-27) R2659:3
Luke 9:32
Peter and they -- In this tableau, the three disciples formed no part.
They were merely witnesses. R2288:6
They saw -- So far as the apostles were concerned, what they saw was so
actual, so real, that they supposed the whole matter actual. Our assurance
that the transfiguration was a vision is in our Lord's words, "Tell the
vision to no man." (Matt. 17:9) R3793:3, 1761:1
A vision was just as useful to the purpose as a reality could have been.
R2659:5
In this vision, as in all visions, the unreal appears real. R2288:3
His glory -- The "vision" was a vivid and refreshing symbolic view of
the Kingdom, but without the "sure word of prophecy" (2 Pet. 1:19), it
would have been unintelligible. R1761:4
Luke 9:33
Make three tabernacles -- Evidently thinking that the Master would be

rejoiced at such blessed fellowship, and willing to do anything for his
aid. R5121:2
We cannot build tabernacles on the mountain heights of faith and hope, and
expect to dwell there in enraptured vision always. We must remember that
the duties and trials of present experiences in conflict with sin and self
and the Adversary are essential to our development and part of our
covenant. R2660:1,4
How many there are who, Peter-like, want to be doing something, want to be
rearing earthly tabernacles. All about us we see the disposition to rear
costly temples of an earthly kind to the Lord, and a neglect of the vision
in its real meaning. R3795:1
Not knowing what he said -- He was bewildered and confused, but in
harmony with his natural temperament, he wished to say something. R2289:3
Peter's rash expression found a reproof in the voice from heaven which
said, "Hear ye him." And fear fell upon the disciples. R2289:4
Luke 9:34
There came a cloud -- A misty cloud of light, saying to the apostles and
to us, that glory will, in a considerable measure, be obscured for a time,
so that you will see your Lord only with the eye of faith; though more or
less cloudy, the cloud will nevertheless be bright unto those who look
unto him. R2659:6
Representing the darkness and trouble which would be permitted to come
upon the Lord's followers in the midst of all the trials of the dark days
that were coming upon them in connection with Jesus' rejection by the
Jews. R3794:5
And they feared -- Overpowered by the brilliancy of the vision; so we,
in our weak and imperfect conditions, sometimes find it difficult to grasp
the glorious things which God hath set before us. R3794:6
Not only is the fear of the Lord valuable as a beginning of true wisdom,
but it is valuable all our journey through. R2289:4
The fear which we are to lose entirely is the "fear of man which bringeth
a snare." (Prov. 29:25) He who loses the fear of God and of losing the
great prize is in a very dangerous position. He is likely to become
self-conscious and self-satisfied. R2289:5 One account shows that it was
necessary for the Lord to touch the apostles, saying, "Arise, and be not
afraid." (Matt. 17:7) R3793:3
Representing our fears lest we should fail in the great undertaking.
R3794:6
Luke 9:35
There came a voice -- The voice of God. R2659:6

"This voice which came from heaven we heard when we were with him in the
holy mount. (2 Pet. 1:18) B255; R5121:1, 4649:3, 1761:1
This is my beloved Son -- Their faith was corroborated; God himself had
testified in this miraculous manner that Jesus was his Son. R5121:3
At his birth the heavenly messengers announced him; at his baptism the
heavenly voice declared him the acceptable Son of God, and here it is
reiterated. R1761:5
Jesus was the first Son of God after Adam; and since our Lord's time, the
Church have been called sons of God. (1 John 3:2) R5623:5
Hear him -- The voice seemed to say, Be still! hearken rather to the
words of my beloved Son. Not a few need to learn the lesson of quietness
--to hear and learn, be taught of God. R2289:3
Hear and obey his word. All through the Gospel age, we will have great
need to continually hearken to the Word of the Lord. R2659:6
We have taken the first step of belief; we have taken the second step of
response, and agreed to do these things; the important question with each
of us, therefore, must be--Am I obedient? R3163:6
Continually hearken to the Word of the Lord, the very essence of wisdom
and righteousness. R2659:6, 3163:6
"Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak." (James 1:19) R2289:4
Luke 9:36
Was found alone -- Only Jesus with them, no longer with radiant
appearance. R5121:2, 4649:3, 1761:5
The vision, the voice and the cloud had all passed away, while the lessons
of that solemn hour remained to gain a yet broader significance after
Pentecost. R1761:5
Which they had seen -- A symbolic representation of the glory of
Christ's Millennial Kingdom. R1761:1
Luke 9:46
Should be greatest -- A question naturally suggested by the Lord's

selection of the three to witness the experiences on the Mount of
Transfiguration. R1766:2
While the humility of the Lord's apostles is very marked in their
subsequent career, in the beginning of their course they were all to some
extent influenced by old ideas which it was the object of Christ's
teaching gradually to eradicate. R1766:2
To aspire to advancement for self-glory or self-gratification, to desire
personal preferment above others, is contrary to the spirit of God's plan,
which is love. R875:4*
It would be the very height of presumption on the part of any human being,
as it was on the part of Satan, to aspire to the divine nature if we were
not invited to that position by God himself. R875:2*
We have no intimation that either Jesus, or any of the angels that kept
their first estate, ever aspired to anything beyond that sphere to which
divine wisdom had appointed them. R875:1*
It was to ambition that Satan tempted Eve, saying, "God doth know that in
the day that ye eat thereof, your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as
gods." (Gen. 3:5) R875:1* 9:47
And Jesus -- Avoiding personalities, as it is always best to do wherever
possible. R3796:2
Took a child -- The special characteristics of a little child are:
simplicity of heart, meekness, truthfulness, freedom from ambition and
rivalry, faith, confiding trust, love, obedience, teachableness,
indifference to social distinctions and popular opinions, guilelessness.
R1766:6, 3796:4
Luke 9:48
And said unto them -- His manner is impressive and solemn, as though he
would say, I want you to take this lesson to heart and ponder it well.
R1766:6
Receive this child -- Recognize, and show kindness to the least and
humblest of God's children. R1767:4
If we would be pleasing to God, we must have the spirit of a little child
with regard to others--an unselfish, guileless spirit, full of love and
without hypocrisy. R875:4*
Receiving such disciples as have this childlike character. R3797:2
He that is least -- Not only a warning to the individual seeking
preferment in the Church, but also an instruction to the Church to accept
as its honored servants only such as he describes. R875:4* Jesus was a
perfect illustration of humbling himself; first, to become a man; and then
when a man, to become obedient unto death. R875:1*
Shall be great -- Not by any arbitrary law of retribution, but on the
philosophical principle that humility leads to greatness. R1767:2
Will be most honored. Humility and child-likeness among the brethren now
should be considered a mark of true greatness. R3796:5
Luke 9:49
We forbad him -- This one forbidden by John would correspond well with
some now holding meetings other than those which we attend. R5501:3
Followeth not with us -- In the school of Christ there are various
classes. Their exercise and instruction is under the direction of the
principal teacher, Christ, who will lead each class as it may be able and
willing to advance. R226:3
Luke 9:50
Forbid him not -- Conscience is always to be respected, never to be

throttled or violated. Nor is any one who stands faithful to his
conscience to be disesteemed therefor by his brethren, even if their
consciences view the matter differently. R5501:6
Where brethren find it advantageous to meet in different classes, it will
usually be found, we believe, that originally too great restraint of
personal liberty was exercised, and that the majority were too careless of
the sentiments of the brethren constituting the minority. R5502:1
It is for the Lord to bless them or not to bless them, according to his
wisdom. R5501:3
Is for us -- We should love and wish Godspeed to all who love the Lord
and manifest his Spirit, whether they associate with us or not. R3747:1
Luke 9:51
Steadfastly set his face -- He knew his hour was come, that his
sacrificial life of three and a half years should be accomplished. He was
full of courage. "But of the people there were none with him" in the sense
of sympathetic appreciation of the conditions. (Isa. 63:3) R4701:3
Luke 9:52
Of the Samaritans -- Of mixed blood, Jewish and Gentile. They were

counted by the Jews as though they were Gentiles; hence "the Jews had no
dealings with the Samaritans." (John 4:9) R2960:3
Could not receive special blessings until the seventy weeks of favor to
the Jews was ended. R4132:3
To make ready -- Another account intimates that James and John visited
the Samaritan city for the purchase of bread and supplies. R4701:3
Luke 9:53
Did not receive him -- Or permit him to pass through their city on his
journey. R2574:2
In contrast with the Samaritan city of Sychar, where he was received and
stayed for two days. (John 4:19-29) R4132:2
Refused to sell the disciples food. R4132:3, 5698:6, 4540:4, 2960:3;
CR480:3
Would go to Jerusalem -- Would the Great Teacher recognize them and heal
their sickness, or would he treat them as Jews generally treated
them--unkindly? They believed the latter. R4701:6
Luke 9:54
And John -- Nevertheless this earnest, active disciple was specially

loved of the Master, and doubtless he himself was very loving. NS818:1
We command fire -- Said in their zeal, but not according to knowledge.
R2289:2
Let the brethren of exuberant and effervescent disposition learn the
moderation which the Apostle commanded. F135
In comparison with eternal torture, this proposal of burning up the city,
and incidentally burning them for a few minutes, would be as nothing.
R4702:1; NS839:1
So there are some today who are ready to quarrel on every occasion.
Although this tendency does not prove that they are not children of the
Lord, nevertheless it demonstrates that they are not in the right attitude
and that improvement is necessary. R5699:1
Reminiscent of the translators who translate John 5:28,29 as the
"resurrection of damnation," instead of "judgment." NS315:4
An illustration of what an impulsive temperament may lead to; yet
these were specially close to the Lord in the Mount of Transfiguration,
at the raising of Jairus' daughter, and in Gethsemane's garden. F135
The same delusion caused men to be burned at the stake, and put through
torture, in the name of Jesus. CR480:3
Luke 9:55
What manner of spirit -- They had not yet realized what is the spirit of
a true disciple. It was therefore no wonder that they did things contrary
to the Lord's spirit. CR495:2; OV433:4
They had a vengeful spirit, contrary to the loving kindness and tender
mercy of God who planned the salvation of mankind. CR480:4
Luke 9:56
Destroy men's lives -- Greek, psuche, souls, beings. E336

"For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world." (John
3:17) A255
A guide for all the Lord's followers for today, as well as before. We are
not to render evil for evil or slander for slander; but, contrariwise, to
speak kindly, lovingly and generously of those who say all manner of evil
against us falsely for Christ's sake. R4540:4
God's work in Christ was not to sacrifice the world, but to save it.
R539:1*
But to save them -- Jesus had the Father's spirit; his teaching was
sympathetic, loving, kind. R4702:1
Thank God for the coming Kingdom and its righteous judgments and
assistances. R3320:5
Nevertheless, we remember that Jesus would not perform miracles in healing
the Samaritan sick, and that it was for this reason that the Samaritans
resented and would not receive him. R2574:2
The first work of the Savior is the redemptive work of Calvary. His second
work is the selection of his Church to be joint-heirs in the Kingdom. His
third work will be the saving of Adam and all his race from sin and death.
R4702:4
Luke 9:57
I will follow thee -- Evidently with the thought that one so gifted and
so well supplied with the necessities of life must be wealthy. R5370:6
Luke 9:58
Hath not where -- That is to say, Are you willing, if need be, to be
thus homeless and comfortless that thereby you may render greater service
to our Heavenly Father? R540:3*
Apparently his ardor was cooled when Jesus informed him that he had no
property. None but the very sincere would likely be attracted to follow a
leader under such circumstances. Wealth attracts many, poverty few. R5370:6
Luke 9:59
Suffer me first -- As honey was forbidden in sacrifice, so whatever is

sweet to nature must be disowned, if we would walk after the example of
Christ, who pleased not himself. R84:6*
Bury my father -- After my father's death I will come and be one of your
disciples. While the old gentlemen lives I had better stay with him, but
after he is dead I will become one of your disciples. Q217:1
Luke 9:60
Let the dead -- The whole world is already dead from the divine
standpoint. R5371:1; Q287:4
His father, not being united to the Life-giver, and still therefore under
the curse of death as the wages of sin, would find plenty of others
similarly dead in Adam to perform the necessary services down to the very
last. HG357:4
"The hour is coming and now is when the dead shall hear the voice of the
Son of God." (John 5:25) R2435:1
Bury their dead -- Not that our Lord required the disciple to absent
himself from the funeral of his own father; but the young man probably
thought to leave the Lord's service and serve his father until his death.
In doing this, other business or pleasure would crowd upon him, and he
might never return to the higher service. R1987:1
There are plenty in the world who can attend to the earthly things; few
who can attend to the greater and more important work of proclaiming the
Kingdom and gathering the Kingdom class. R5371:1
But go thou -- The young man should consider himself as figuratively
risen from the dead, as no longer one of those dead in trespasses and
sins. HG357:4
As one figuratively risen from the dead and alive through faith in Christ,
and hoping to have that life perfected in the First Resurrection, should
live and act in all the affairs of life from this new standpoint. HG357:4
Preach the kingdom -- The sum and substance of the Gospel theme.
R1579:3, 1351:3, 702:2*
Most of God's people grasp earthly reforms and push them, instead of
prosecuting the work for the promised but deferred and unseen Kingdom.
R1227:5
Jesus' reply shows the importance he attaches to every service we can
render in the Father's cause. R5371:1
The present embryo Kingdom in its humiliation, and the Kingdom to be
established in power and glory. R1579:3
Luke 9:61
Bid them farewell -- Spend a little time with them. R5371:2
Luke 9:62
And Jesus said -- It was not heartlessness on Jesus' part that suggested
this answer. R5371:2
Having put -- We should make up our mind to use all of our powers, or
else stand aside. R5422:5
Hand to the plough -- The Lord counsels those who would come to him to
"first count the cost." (Luke 14:28) R854:3, 5223:2, 2081:4*; SM390:1
The consecration, the covenant, the promise, will avail nothing if we
prove unfaithful to it. R2154:5
And looking back -- Through fear that the Lord is abandoning him in
trial, or through unwillingness to longer submit to polishing. R2405:2
determination to go on unto the end. R5223:2
We are to have no thought of turning back. SM347:T; R1775:4 "If any man
draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him." (Heb. 10:38) R1775:4,
R2081:4*
"Remember Lot's wife." (Luke 17:32) C194
Preferring the world. R854:3
Holding back the word of truth. R3211:2
"Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow
and not pay." (Eccles. 5:5) R2154:5
Regretting your consecration, and desiring to be excused from faithful
service as the Lord's steward. R819:3
Looking back regretfully, desiring to abandon the plow, and really doing
it. NS746:1
In the sense of declining to go forward, in harmony with the consecration
of their lives, unto death. NS746:1
Do not think of reconsidering the question of consecration now. R935:5*
"Sit down first and count the cost," before you undertake such a
consecration of your life, such a sacrifice of your earthly interests.
(Luke 14:28) SM390:1; R5223:2
Day by day, week by week, month by month, we are to carry out the terms of
our covenant. We are to have no thought of turning back. SM347:T
To look back is one step, and a long one, towards ignoring and breaking
our covenant. It is the first step in unrighteousness, and if not quickly
retraced, it will sooner or later lead to darkness and apostasy. R947:1
To even look back longingly at the things of the present time, to even in
their hearts rue the sacrifice which they had made, would mean that they
would be unworthy of a place in the Kingdom. NS308:4
Looking back at the things behind prepares the way for turning back, and
makes onward progress in the narrow way more and more difficult, and
finally impossible. R955:5*
It is not enough that we have consecrated ourselves to God as living
sacrifices; that we have covenanted to follow in the footsteps of Jesus;
for the consecration and covenant will avail nothing if we prove
unfaithful to them. R2154:5
"If any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him." The Apostle
Paul shows that some, at least, will draw back unto perdition,
destruction. (Heb. 10:38,39) R2081:4*
However difficult and thorny the path may be, forget not the privilege of
walking in it. We may not repine and wish it otherwise. R1263:4
When, in answer to our inquiring prayer, "What lack I yet?", the Lord
applies some test to prove our standing before him, let us bravely
determine that, by his grace, we will not draw back. R1775:4
This class must be thoroughly imbued with a zeal for God and for
righteousness, else they will not be persevering enough, nor zealous
enough, to fight the good fight of faith, and overcome. R3236:1
Many not only are looking back and making special provisions for the
social amenities of life, but additionally are plunging into many of the
luxuries, pleasures and frivolities of the world. R5371:2
Is fit -- There is one certain standard of fitness for the Kingdom; but
there may be quite a variety of conditions which make one unfit for the
Kingdom. (Article describes three--murder, drunkenness and pride--in
detail). NS745:2
Not fit to be of the Bride class, whatever else they may be fit for.
R3211:2, 819:6; SM390:1
It would unfit you for the world, and you would not be fit for the Kingdom
of heaven. R854:3
determination to go on unto the end. R5223:2
We may require much more trimming on some sides of our characters than on
others. The disposition often is to "draw back," to be not fully
submissive. But to draw back would leave us unfit for the Kingdom. R2405:2
To be fit, such must have a zeal for righteousness, a conception of what
God has in reservation, and an appreciation of Kingdom privileges. R3236:1
Must be absorbed with interest in the Kingdom blessings and in conferring
blessings upon others. R5371:4
Only the saints are fit. R3507:1
Fit for a place with himself in that glorious Messianic empire. R5371:4
The kingdom of God -- Not the Millennial reign, nor the perfect Kingdom
as it will be turned over to the Father at the end of the Millennium, but
the Church class, now called of the Father to be the "Kingdom," in the
sense of being the kings and priests of that Kingdom. NS744:3
Our Lord could not refer to the Millennial Kingdom, because that Kingdom
is designed for the very purpose of dealing with the unfit and gradually
uplifting them out of sin and death conditions. NS744:4
Luke 10
Luke 10:1
After these things -- Our Lord had previously sent forth the twelve
apostles. The sending forth of the seventy was evidently some little time
afterward, probably in the last year of his ministry. R2674:1
The harvest work during the three and a half years of our Lord's ministry
seems to have been crowded chiefly into the last nine months of that
period. R3346:2
As the principal part of the Lord's work at the first advent was crowded
into the closing six months, so we anticipate that the principal work of
the present harvest will be crowded into the last six years. R3347:4
The Lord appointed -- Ordination does not relate to a ceremony, or form,
as many suppose. It signifies an authorization, a commission to preach.
R5362:6
Not to be apostles, but to be general ministers, or missionaries. R5363:1
Partakers of the pre-anointing that had already come upon their Master.
Although this anointing did not come directly upon them until Pentecost,
they had a foretaste of it when the Lord conferred upon them a share of
his spirit, power, when he sent them out to preach. F212
Other seventy -- Representatives of a much larger company of deeply
interested ones. R2674:1
Undoubtedly a part of the "five hundred brethren" mentioned by the Apostle
as having seen our Lord after his resurrection. (1 Cor. 15:6) R3346:3
As the twelve apostles corresponded to the twelve tribes of Israel, so the
seventy evangelists corresponded to the seventy elders of Israel appointed
by Moses in the wilderness, afterward represented in the Jewish Sanhedrin.
R3346:3
The honor and privilege passing by those of influence and education who
might have enjoyed it had they been worthy--the seventy members of the
Sanhedrin. R2674:5
They represented all the elders or leaders amongst God's people today.
R3346:3
Ready to send as many more as might become ready. R1742:3
Also -- Not apostles in the special sense, but additional to the twelve
apostles, they were evangelists. R3346:3
Typified by the seventy palm trees at Elim. R4011:2
If the Jewish nation had been in a proper condition of heart, the 70
members of the Sanhedrin would by that time have been proclaiming the
Messiah throughout the length and breadth of Palestine. R2674:5
Sent them -- Across Jordan into the district known as Perea. R5369:2
On a work of service, not lordship. F212
Under his direction and supervision. R1742:3
Two and two -- Similarly we, at the present time, encourage the
colporteurs to go two and two, for mutual encouragement and helpfulness.
"So when two work together, each for each, is quick to plan and can the
other teach." R2674:4
As advance missionaries to proclaim the Kingdom of God. R3346:2
He himself would come -- They were to prepare the people for the later
arrival of Jesus in the various cities of Israel east of the Jordan.
R3346:3
Luke 10:2
Said he unto them -- Their commission reads almost in the same words as
that given to the twelve, though they are not recognized anywhere as
apostles, on an equality with the twelve. R2674:1, 1521:5
During our Lord's ministry the work of the apostles differed nothing from
that of the "seventy," nor were there labors any more signally blessed;
yet they were more directly and continually under his training and the
chosen witnesses of every remarkable feature and event of his course.
R1522:3
The harvest -- The Lord designated the end of the Jewish age as the
"harvest" time for the reaping of the wheat of that people; a figure, type
or foreshadowing of the harvest time in the end of this Gospel age. R3346:6
Truly is great -- Not necessarily that the amount of ripe "wheat" to be
garnered is great. It means rather, that the difficulties and oppositions,
and multitudes of "tares," make it difficult to reach all of the "wheat"
class. The work is great. R2674:2
The harvest there, so far as Jesus was concerned, was the gathering in of
500 brethren, but that was not all of the Jewish harvest, more were
gathered later. Q319:6
Relatively--there is a great work to do in comparison with the few that
are ready and willing to do it. Q319:6
Sympathizingly drawing the attention of the believers of that time to the
ripeness of the conditions around them. R3346:6
And so it is today. As we look all about us we see nominal Christendom
like a great wheat field, ripe and ready for the reaping. R3346:6
So now, do not expect that the harvest work here will include millions,
but a considerable number, and in my judgment there is yet a great work to
be done. Q319:6
Labourers are few -- Too few to properly consummate the work in the time
appointed of the Father. R2674:1; Q319:6
We have more opportunities for using unencumbered brethren, filled with
the Spirit, than ever before. R5200:2
The Lord is opening up the use of worldly newspapers and sending them to
millions of people. Why? There are not enough reapers. Q320:1
Pray ye therefore -- While praying, ask yourself, What can I do? If he
has a work going on you want to get your share, so with everyone. Q320:1
Pray to the Lord to send them forth into his service, or if already
engaged in it, that he would graciously open to them doors of opportunity
for greater usefulness in his service. R2674:2
Apparently it was those who prayed who consecrated themselves to this
service, this evangelistic ministry. R3346:6
It is not supposable that our Lord meant that any should appeal to him to
send forth more laborers who, at the same time, would not be willing and
anxious, to the extent of their ability, to enter the harvest service
themselves. R2674:3
We may be sure that those who are most earnestly sympathetic and most
earnestly praying are those who are most earnestly laboring in this
harvest. R3347:1
Lord of the harvest -- None could engage in the service unless they were
sent forth by him--the Lord of the harvest. R3347:1
That age ended with a harvest, in which Jesus in the flesh was the reaper,
the disciples being the assistant reapers, under his direction. Our age
also ends with a harvest, of a spiritual house, in which Jesus a spiritual
body is the reaper, while the angels, also spiritual bodies, are the
assistants. R175:5
Send forth labourers -- All of the Lord's faithful ones at the end of
the Jewish age were to recognize the great privilege of being engaged in
the harvest work, and the same must be true now. R5363:4
The Lord is sending forth more laborers continually; yet only such as
recognize the Kingdom as nigh, the parousia of the King, have the zeal to
tell the joyful tidings to others. R2674:3
Into his harvest -- The harvesting of the Jewish Age did not close with
AD 70, and we know of no time limit here. R5950:6, 5951:1
At one time we supposed that the harvest work would be fully accomplished
with the ending of Gentile Times. That was merely a supposition; the
gathering in of the ripe grain has been progressing since 1914 as never
before. Ci; R5950:6
Luke 10:3
Go your ways -- The fact that seventy men would voluntarily go forth as
ministers of the Lord, without hope of earthly reward or salary, is
sufficient evidence that a strong influence had already been exerted by
Jesus' teaching. R2674:1
I send you -- Harvest workers acceptable to the Lord are fully
consecrated to him. Other cannot expect the same success and blessing as
such. Thus we find unbelievers--book agents and book stores--are not
successful in handling our publications. R3347:2
Now, as then, we cannot hope that any would succeed in doing harvest work
unless specially commissioned or sent forth by the Chief Reaper. R2674:2
As lambs -- Gentle, inoffensive. R5363:4
Innocent and almost helpless creatures, harmless. R3347:2
Among wolves -- Jews, Israelites, nominally God's favored people for
centuries--now ravenous, destructive, selfish. R3347:2
The self-righteous, Sabbath-keeping, street-corner praying,
tithe-giving scribes and Pharisees, who had the form of godliness, but not
the power of it in their hearts and lives. R3347:3
The selfish, unregenerate world. R5363:4
Should the sheep suffer at their hands, we may be sure it will not be
permitted until the due time. It will not be permitted to interfere with
the harvest work, and none can be seriously molested except by permission
of the Chief Reaper. R3347:4
Consecrated to self and selfishness, sect and party. R2674:6
Nominal Christendom of today is likewise wolflike. R3347:3
Luke 10:4
Carry neither purse -- Special instructions were given to these special

sent-forth ones. They had a peculiar work to do and the conditions
accorded. They were not, therefore, a criterion for subsequent workers
under different circumstances. R2674:6
Both testing the faith of those who went forth, keeping them continually
dependent upon the Lord's supervising care; and furnishing an opportunity
for hospitality to those to whom they preached. R2674:6
Depending wholly upon the Lord and making no attempt to provide for their
needs, Later, Jesus sent forth his disciples, telling them to provide for
their wants to the best of their ability. R5363:4
These evangelists were not to take up any collections. R3347:5
Similarly the pilgrim brothers go from place to place taking no
collections. The same is true of the colporteurs. Although the message is
sold for a price, that price is no more than the seventy received when
they went from place to place. R3347:5
Nor shoes -- Their journey was to be quickly made and all attention was
to be given to their missionary duties. They were not to attempt to make
themselves specially comfortable. R3347:5
Extra shoes; house shoes or slippers. R2674:6, 3347:4
Salute no man -- Not that they might not say "Good morning," but that
they were not to follow the custom of their times of stopping by the way
to discuss whatever matter of news might be carried from one village to
another. R3347:5, 2675:1; Q618:3
We have no time for ordinary converse; the time is short; the harvest work
is great; the laborers are few; our time is consecrated; we must work
while it is called day. R2675:2
Less time should be spent in news reading and gossip. Q618:3
What time have we for frivolities or worldliness or the many social
amenities? R2675:2; Q618:3
Luke 10:5
Whatsoever house -- Their message was to be a house to house message,

and not a public one, not given in the streets or in the public squares.
R5979:3
Inquiring for the most worthy people in every village. R5363:4
Peace be -- Wherever the Lord's representatives go peace should go, not
strife, contention, turmoil or quarreling. R3347:6
How few, comparatively, have learned how to speak the truth in love; and
always to give a soft answer which turneth away wrath; and always to avoid
the grievous words which stir up anger. R2675:2
Upon entering any house, our thought should be to do good, to carry
blessing, to exercise an influence favorable to the peace, joy and uplift
of those within. R5980:2, 3348:1
The Lord's people should be peacemakers, peace-promoters, peace-lovers.
R2675:2, 5979:6, 5980:2
The heart-sentiment of every one of the Lord's people, that peace and
blessing may accompany them wherever they go. R3484:3
"So far as lieth in you live peaceably with all men." (Rom. 12:18)
R3348:1, 5980:2
It is not the great time of trouble that constitutes our message, but a
message of peace. R5979:6
It was a custom in Palestine 19 centuries ago to salute a house thus.
R2675:2
This form of salutation sounds rather peculiar to us; for it is not our
custom to use this style of greetings. But it is still customary in
Eastern countries to salute one another thus. R5979:3
This salutation was to prove a test to the people. R5979:5
Luke 10:6
The son of peace -- A child of God. R2675:1

If we find one having the same spirit of the Lord we should rejoice to
meet him as a brother and communicate to him the harvest message as he
might have ears to hear it. Thus a blessing would be his. R3348:2
Turn to you again -- Our Lord would not have us violate courtesy by
imposing ourselves or our teachings upon those who are unappreciative.
R3348:2, 5980:3
Luke 10:7
Remain, eating -- They were to find those in Israel who would have an
ear for God's message then due to be presented--the "Israelites indeed."
These would gladly entertain them free of charge. R5979:2
Today conditions are different. With us it is much better to take some
tracts, or to sell literature at a moderate price, which will stir up
their interest and fix it. R5979:6
As they give -- Not considering these hospitalities in the light of
alms; for as the Lord's representatives they were to confer blessings
greater far than they would receive; and even as common laborers the
service they rendered should be worth at least their keep. R5980:3,
3348:2, 449:5*
The Lord's true people should be on the lookout to entertain hospitably
any servants of the Lord, who they are sure carry his message; and just as
careful not to entertain, assist, or bid Godspeed to any who are bearing a
false gospel, denying that the Lord bought us. (2 John 10) R2675:3
Worthy of his hire -- Our hire is, in this present life, difficulties
and sacrifices as respects earthly things; but the divine favor and
blessing upon our hearts, and our faith and hope beyond the veil
constitute the chief elements of our wage. NS489:3
The necessities of life in exchange for the spiritual blessings bestowed.
R2261:5
Even the strongest statements of Scripture refer not to princely salaries,
but to bare necessities. F287
If the labor is desired and accepted, it is equivalent to hire. R449:5*
These instructions, afterwards changed by the Lord, are not applicable to
the present time. R2500:2, 5363:4
Later, Jesus sent forth his disciples, telling them to provide for their
wants to the best of their ability. R5363:4
Subsequently the apostles acted very differently. The Apostle Paul, for
instance, made tents; and their change of course was under the Lord's
direction. (See Luke 22:35,36.) R2500:2
Go not -- Not to change from house to house during their stay in the
place. R5979:5
From house to house -- As beggars, to get a meal here, a lodging there.
R5980:3, 3348:2
Luke 10:8
Into whatsoever city -- The same principle was to apply, not only to a
house, but to a city. R3348:2
They receive you -- Inquire for the most worthy people in the village;
if received, remain there until having given a witness in that village.
R5363:4
Luke 10:9
Heal the sick -- The Master's spirit was given to them in such measure
that they were enabled to do as he did--heal the sick, etc. R5363:4
Their commission was one of service--they were to serve one another, to
serve the Lord, and to lay down their lives for their brethren. These
services were to be rendered specially in connection with the promulgation
of the Gospel. F212
Might at first appear applicable to the Jewish harvest only; but not so.
There is spiritual as well as physical sickness, and the Lord's
ambassadors today should consider it their business to open blind eyes,
unstop deaf ears, and assist the spiritually sick by pouring the balm of
Gilead upon bruised and broken hearts. R5980:4, 5363:4, 3348:2
We are not to understand that there is such an authorization of the Lord's
people today. R5363:4
We are to help others out of soul-sickness by administering the good
medicine of the present truth. R2675:6
The kingdom of God -- The hope of every Israelite. A273
This announcement has not been proper all through the age, but has been
appropriate merely in the ends, or harvests, of the two ages. R5980:4
It is not the great time of trouble that constitutes our message. The time
of trouble, if referred to at all, should be mentioned only as a necessary
accompaniment of the change of dispensation. R5979:6
Is come nigh -- The Kingdom of God would be so different from what was
expected. The Kingdom of God would be a spiritual one. All who would be
its members would be spirit beings, as invisible to mankind as are the
angels at the present time. NS100:6
The Jews had been waiting for the coming of Messiah and the establishment
of the Kingdom for many centuries. NS100:5
In its glory and completeness now, as, at the time of the Jewish harvest,
it was at hand in its embryo condition. R1742:3
It is this message which was the test of natural Israel and is now the
test of spiritual Israel. C136
Peter's suggestion to return to fishing after Jesus' crucifixion was
because he did not then see how he could continue the message. B117
Luke 10:10
Go your ways out -- The message is not now for the swinish, quarrelsome,
selfish and wicked. R5980:1
And say -- Peradventure they found no entertainer in the village, they
were, nevertheless, to give their testimony. R2675:1
Luke 10:11
We do wipe off -- To the Oriental mind, a very solemn and final

testimony. R2675:1
If, as the Lord's ministers, we should be rebuffed and disdained, not
welcomed, we should be careful not to intrude ourselves further, hastening
away to find those whose hearts are hungry for the Word of grace. R5980:2,
3348:1
To leave the place, figuratively shaking the dust of that city from their
feet. R5979:5
Is come nigh -- The Israelites had been waiting for it many centuries.
R5363:5
Luke 10:12
More tolerable -- More favorable for them to fall in line with the
Lord's gracious arrangements. R3349:4
In that day -- The Millennial day. R3348:5
The terms of the Millennial age will be equally open to all mankind, but
all mankind will not be in equal readiness to profit by those blessed
conditions of the kingdom. It is a law of nature that a blessing, once
despised, and truth, once rejected, is on that account more difficult to
be grasped if offered again. R3349:1
For Sodom -- Degraded ones who never heard of the grace of God, never
tasted divine favors, never witnessed divine healings, nor were taught of
the Lord. R3348:5
Because its sin was against less light and privilege. R5363:6
The eternal fate of the Sodomites is not sealed. R5179:6
Than for that city -- Those who had such large favor and were not moved
to repentance and obedience. R3348:4
Luke 10:13
Woe unto thee -- They rejected the privilege of becoming disciples and
joint-heirs in the Kingdom. That will never be offered to them again. When
next divine favor is exercised toward them it will be with the privilege
of restitution to the human nature. R3348:6, 624:2
"That servant that knew his Lord's will and did it not shall be punished
with many stripes." (Luke 12:47) R2612:2.
Chorazin -- The people of Bethsaida, Chorazin and Capernaum were regular
attendants of the synagogues--decent people, having a form of godliness,
but knowing little or nothing of its power. HG647:6
Tyre and Sidon -- Both of which then were in ruins, brought down to
hades, down to the dust. R5363:5
All six cities mentioned are utterly destroyed, and their inhabitants all
totally dead. R3348:4
Notoriously unholy, licentious, unclean cities. R2623:3
While ago repented -- Yet the worldly wise and prudent tell us that
these poor sinners long ago passed into eternal torment. R2624:4
Luke 10:14
More tolerable -- Meaning that in the Millennium it will be favorable

even for those who were not moved by the Lord's miracles to repentance;
and still more tolerable for the heathen of Tyre and Sidon. R3348:5
If they will, they may then learn the lessons necessary and eventually
attain everlasting life. But because of their greater privileges, the
blessings they will enjoy in the future will be correspondingly curtailed.
HG647:6
The Sodomites were not so great sinners in God's sight as were the Jews
who had more knowledge. A110
Than for you -- Under Millennial arrangements conditions will be
favorable or tolerable, even for those people who witnessed divine
healings, or had opportunities of being taught of the Lord, or being
accepted as disciples of Christ. R3348:5
Luke 10:15
Exalted to heaven -- Hyperbolically speaking. It was highly privileged

in that it had our Lord as a resident for some time, enjoyed the privilege
of his teaching, and witnessed many of his mighty works. E376; R2600:4
Thrust down -- The people of the cities of Galilee and of all Palestine
were involved in the great time of trouble with which the Jewish age was
wound up and that nation blotted out of existence as a nation. R3349:1
To hell -- Because of the misuse of God's favors, it would be debased,
overthrown, destroyed. It is now so thoroughly buried in oblivion that
even the site where it stood is a matter of dispute. R2600:4; E376
Greek, hades, oblivion, death, as a city. R2623:2; E376; R5363:5, 4557:1,
2600:4
Luke 10:16
He that heareth you -- These faithful members of Christ are in every

Church and outside of every human system. PD88/102
Heareth me -- It should prompt us to feel the dignity of the smallest
service rendered to the Lord's cause. It should banish fear of man and all
feelings of weakness and trepidation. It should make us more dignified in
manner, more earnest in service, as well as less careful of what man might
say to us. Our whole concern would be that we might please him who hath
chosen us. R3349:4
Despiseth you -- Demonstrating that a wrong condition of heart and mind
prevailed. R3777:1
Despiseth me -- He who is ashamed of the brother or sister or tract or
book by which God was pleased to send him the truth shows clearly that,
had he lived in the days of our Lord's humiliation, he would have been
ashamed of him and the humble men he chose and used to promulgate his
Gospel in the beginning. R2026:2
In despising the brethren, they are despising the Lord, and not fit for
"Whosoever shall be ashamed of me, of him shall the Son of man be
ashamed." (Luke 9:26) R3776:3
Nominal Christians are as much ashamed of him today as was natural Israel
then. R3776:6
This is one of the great tests of our relationship to him and the Father.
R3777:1
Him that sent me -- The Father. R5363:6
Luke 10:17
The seventy -- These all had the Lord's special love, fellowship and
Whom the Lord appointed to the ministry, though not to the apostleship.
R1521:6
Even the devils -- Those who deny the Scriptures say that these people
were deceived and that our Lord was unscientific. Our holding is the
reverse: that the Lord and the Apostles were scientific, and that the
people of our day are deceived in supposing that there are no evil
spirits. R4976:3
Apparently there were great numbers possessed throughout the land of
Israel. R2173:2
Our Lord and the apostles had frequently cast out these evil spirits.
R5908:2
Some physicians say that more than half of those in insane asylums are
obsessed by evil spirits. R4976:3
Are subject -- Their success in their work was as marked at that time as
were the apostles in their work. R1521:6 Through thy name -- By the power
of the spirit, Jesus had communicated to them. R5392:6
Luke 10:18
I beheld -- In his pre-human condition. R2675:3

Satan -- Whose very existence now is being denied by many. F609
It is for those who deny the personality of Satan and who deny that there
are any fallen angels, to explain away these plain statements of
Scripture. R2675:4
As lightning -- An angel of light. R1833:3
As a bright one. R2675:4
Spiritual bodies are represented as shining as the lightning. (Matt. 28:3;
Dan. 10:6; 1 Cor. 15:8) HG25:5
Fall from heaven -- Fall from high glory, privilege and position to his
present attitude of chief adversary of God. R2675:4
When all is complete Satan will fall from his present position as ruler
"like lightning." This Jesus saw in vision. R519:1*
Luke 10:19
I give unto you power -- Confined to the twelve and the subsequent
seventy, never given to the Church in general. The only text that seems to
so imply is Mark 16:9 to the end, and these verses are not found in the
oldest Greek manuscripts, and are evidently interpolations. R2675:5
Granting us the privilege of successfully contending against the great
Adversary and his servants, and hindering us from being stung or "hurt" by
their words, looks or deeds. R2675:6
Serpents and scorpions -- All enemies, but specially the enemy, Satan.
R2675:5
Hurt you -- As new creatures in Christ. R5862:5, 2675:5
Surely anxiety would be a lack of faith, a lack of confidence, or else
ignorance of the divine promises, character and arrangement. SM271:2
Luke 10:20
Rejoice not -- Cautioning them against thinking too highly of such

miraculous gifts, assuring them that their chiefest cause of joy lay in
another direction. R2675:5
They were overlooking their chief cause of joy. So with us, salvation is a
personal matter, and works and preachings are merely incidentals connected
with the work of personal salvation. R5369:2
In harmony with 1 Cor. 13:1, where Paul assures us that the miraculous
gifts are not proofs of spirit-begotten conditions; that a greater proof
is the possession of the spirit of the Lord, the spirit of love that never
faileth. R2675:5
Written in heaven -- But we have no record to indicate that they were
enrolled on earth. R1420:6, 1309:2
God's Church is separate from all human institutions. Only saintly
persons, regardless of denominational lines, are members of the true
Church. HG693:4
We belong to no earthly organization. We adhere only to the heavenly
organization. All the saints now living, or that have lived during this
age, belong to our church organization. R584:3
Some would have followed Jesus and have been willing to join his church,
if he had one--but the Church He represented was bound together by the
truths he taught. R213:5
As prospective joint-heirs with Christ in his Kingdom, prospective members
And not in any human organization called a church. R4033:1
They can be blotted out because of unfaithfulness. (Rev. 3:5) R1908:3
Our first work now is to prepare our own hearts and characters for divine
approval that we may share in the glorious Kingdom work of the future.
R5369:3
Luke 10:21
Rejoiced in spirit -- From the standpoint of the flesh he was in very

unfavorable and uncongenial surroundings, but from the standpoint of his
mind, his heart, he was in a very favorable condition. NS190:6
And said -- Prayer may be properly offered audibly, in the presence of
fellow-believers. This prayer could not have been recorded if it had not
been heard by the apostles. R2251:3, 2023:3
Hid these things -- In the sense of permitting it to come through
unpopular channels. Sometimes the unpopularity is deserved and sometime
undeserved, but it always serves to keep away those who are not in the
right attitude of heart. R3483:2
This gracious plan which provides such wonderful future opportunities for
the people of Tyre, Sidon and Sodom. R2624:4
The wise -- Their position in society and professionally has made them
arrogant and self-conceited. From their standpoint the words of the Bible
have become to them foolishness. As the Scriptures declare, the world by
wisdom knows not God. R3328:4
The "remnant" which the Lord will own as his, will contain few of the
chief priests, scribes, Pharisees--few of the clergy or great ones, more
of the "laity"--those reckoned publicans and sinners in comparison with
the "holier than thou" ministers and priests. R921:1
Their school will open by and by--during the Millennial reign of Christ
and the Church, who will be their instructors. R2882:4
Among the Apostles, only Paul was before a theologian--a Pharisee. R921:4
The truth is not intended for the worldly-wise, proud or the dishonest.
R2026:5
Some preachers and teachers hide the truth from the Lord's people, so they
might use it for their own benefit; but such make little progress. R3138:4
And prudent -- Those who might preserve God's Word to themselves and
dole it out second-hand to the church, either as a whole or such parts of
it as in their judgment would be prudent. R3138:4
Prudence, as generally exercised by the world, has greatly hindered the
truth always. It is better termed policy. We want none of it. R508:4
Unto babes -- Those who will utter it unreservedly. R508:4
We are not to despise the least, the most ignoble or illiterate of those
who give evidence of a purity and honesty of heart toward God, and to whom
he seems to give the anointing of his spirit. R3226:6
Those who make no boast of wisdom according to the course of this world.
R2492:6
"God looketh on the heart." (1 Sam. 16:7) R3226:5
By candor and humility and zeal let us keep ourselves in the love of God.
R2026:5 "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God." (1
Pet. 5:6) R2882:4
Luke 10:22
But the Son -- Whose prehuman fellowship with the Father was impressed
with sufficient clearness to enable our Lord to say that "what he hath
seen and heard, that he testifieth." (John 3:32) E91
Luke 10:23
Unto his disciples -- Confined, during the Gospel age, to a special few.
HG145:5
The eyes which see -- There are many who have not this sight and
hearing, for the Apostle says, "The god of this world [Satan] hath blinded
the minds of them that believe not, lest the light of the goodness of God
should shine unto them." (2 Cor. 4:4) HG145:5
Luke 10:25
A certain lawyer -- One well versed in the teachings of the books of

Moses, a theological doctor. R5369:3, 2683:2
Probably of the Sadducees, who denied a resurrection and any future or
Stood up -- Thus politely intimating his desire to say a word in
connection with the subject under discussion. R2683:2
Tempted him -- That is, to prove him, to draw him out, to expose the
weakness of his argument. R2683:3
The insincerity and evil disposition toward Jesus on the part of the
Jewish teachers was very manifest in the questions they publicly
propounded to trap him. It was for this purpose that they mingled with the
multitudes. R1939:3
Jealousy of Jesus sprang up among the Doctors of the Law. To them he was a
rival teacher, and accordingly they sought to entrap him, with a view to
exposing him to ridicule before his followers. R3803:2
The questioner probably thought he would say, You must believe that I am
the Son of God, the promised Messiah. Then they would have said, He
repudiates the Law. R1939:6
What shall I do -- A scribe, a Doctor of the Law, a teacher; one,
therefore, who is living a godly and upright life, so far, at least, as
his neighbors and pupils may be able to discern. R2683:3
There are some people of the same kind today, who are ready to acknowledge
that God has a perfect standard, but believe that they are sufficiently
near the divine standard to have eternal life, and are therefore not
looking for any Savior. R3803:5
To inherit eternal life -- The best of the nation had not inherited
eternal life; on the contrary, they had died as other men--whether it be
of the Lord's failure to fulfill his promise, or man's failure to comply
with the conditions. R2683:3
Luke 10:26
What is written -- Practically saying, I stand by the Scriptural record.

R2683:5
The answer was politely deferential to the office of the inquirer. R1767:3
Note how, in meekness, the Lord instructed those that opposed themselves
(2 Tim. 2:24-26). He did not bluntly say to his insincere inquirer, Your
heart is not right, but rather sought carefully and wisely to lead his
opposer to this realization and to consequent repentance. R1767:6
In the law -- God has but one standard, which is fully set forth in the
Scriptures. The law of God is the standard. NS690:4
Referring the inquirer to the law for his answer because he was vainly
trusting in the Law for salvation, and opposing the new and only way of
life through Christ. R1767:3
Why did Jesus thus refer to the Law? Why did he not avail himself of this
opportunity for preaching the Gospel? It was necessary that the lawyer
recognize his own inability to keep the full letter of the divine law, so
that he might be prepared to look for divine mercy through Jesus. R3803:4
How readest thou -- Quote, as you understand it, the teachings of the
Law on this subject. R2683:5
Luke 10:27
He answering said -- Quoting Deut. 6:4,5. He added nothing, because

nothing could be added. R5521:3
The Ten Commandments are divided into two parts: one part related to the
duty and obligation toward God; the other to the duty and obligation to
fellow-men. R5699:3
The Ten Commandments delivered to Moses were written upon two stone
tablets. One bore the first four commandments, which appertain to God; the
other bore the remaining six, which appertain to humanity. R5287:2
Thou shalt love -- This love (Greek, agapee) which God exemplifies, is
the kind he sets before us as the highest standard or "mark" toward which
we must run if we would gain the prize. R2807:4
Love is the principal thing. R5521:3, 5370:1
Substantially the same law of God which is now over mankind must
ultimately govern all of God's intelligent creatures, and that law is
briefly comprehended in the one word, love. A136
The "thou shalt nots" might be multiplied indefinitely to fit the
thousands of occurrences in daily life, but the one "thou shalt" covers
the entire situation. R5287:2
We should judge ourselves by this law, to see to what extent we are loving
God thus, and are loving our neighbors as ourselves. This is our primary
work of judging. R5887:2
The law is the Father's law. It existed before Jesus came. It still
exists. It will always be in existence. Jesus did not put it to an end,
and never will put it to an end. Q431:5
Failure to keep this law is the direct cause of the time of trouble. A309
This is the very essence of the great law of God. R5887:2; Q179:6
"Love is the fulfilling of the Law." (Rom. 13:10) A246
The Lord thy God -- Jehovah. E40; R5521:3
With all thy heart -- Meaning that the sum of all our affections would
center upon the Lord, so that our love for him would far excel all of our
dear ones of the home and family and of the whole world. R3803:6
The true God is to be recognized and have first place in our heart; any
division of the heart or strength or mind or soul violates this
commandment. R5286:3, 3803:6
The first test of relationship to the Lord, preceding meekness,
gentleness, patience, etc. R4480:4
It is impossible to live up to this standard without the Redeemer's merit
to cover our shortcomings. R5638:6
The Church must reach this standard in the spirit of their minds and
hearts. R4479:2
Such love does not wait for commands, but appeals for service. F124
Obedience to this part of the Law enabled Christ to fulfill the Law
Covenant and to become heir of the Abrahamic Covenant at the same time
that he redeemed Adam. F357
The Lord thus epitomized the Ten Commandments, which are in themselves a
brief epitome of the whole Law. A45; R5521:3
Ultimately, obedience to this law will be required of all who shall have
life on any plane. A136
With all thy soul -- With all our being--to manifest our love not merely
by our words and looks, by our praises, but by our services and all of our
conduct in life, everything testifying that God is first in our affections
and in all of life's interests. R3803:6
With all thy strength -- Signifying that time, talent and influence
would all be at the service of our God. R3803:6
With all thy mind -- Implying that we are to intellectually attempt to
appreciate the Lord, to understand the divine laws, and to enter into
heart sympathy with them, so that our service and worship would be the
more intelligent. R3804:1
We are not being judged according to the flesh, but according to the
spirit, according to the mind, according to the new creature. Q458:T
And thy neighbor as thyself -- Whoever loves his neighbor will not
intentionally injure him in act, word or thought. Hence love expresses the
full measure of the Law's requirements. (Rom. 13:10) R5287:2
But must first love God to the extent of being anxious to do those things
which are pleasing in his sight. R4662:3
Neither should we expect a neighbor to love us better than himself. R3805:1
Every one in adversity and needing our help is our neighbor, whom we
should love sympathetically, and should help. R3804:5, 5369:6
Our Lord requires his disciples to go beyond this; to have a sympathetic
love for our enemies. R3804:6
Only Jesus kept that law of love in perfection of letter and spirit and
we, to the best of our ability, keep the spirit of the divine law.
R3805:4, 5287:4
"That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not
after the flesh, but after the Spirit." (Rom. 8:4) R3805:4, 5287:4
Our love for the Lord and the brethren is love of the very highest type.
R3804:6
It does not say "better than thyself," hence Christ's course of
self-sacrifice in our behalf went beyond this requirement. R3804:6
Luke 10:28
Answered right -- Showing that this Doctor of the Law was well versed,
for he quoted correctly the most direct statement on the subject to be
found in the Law. R2683:5
Jesus implying, "I confirm the Law, I uphold it; I vouch for its
truthfulness; none who keep that Law can possibly die. The difficulty with
all Jews who have died has been that they did not fulfill that Law
requirement toward God and man. R2683:5
This do -- This is the simplest and slightest obedience that the Lord
will accept. If you and I do not come up to that standard you and I will
not get perfect life. This is the standard of all creation. No angel will
be granted eternal life unless they have this perfection. Q439:T
The Great Teacher pointed out that the fault was not in God, that God was
not unfaithful to his agreement under the Law, that the fault lay with the
people. R2683:6
Thou shalt live -- The Law covenant proposed everlasting life upon the
terms of keeping the Law. R5072:5
So Jesus life was not taken from him; for his life could be taken from him
only by his disobedience. R5342:4
Showing him out of his own testimony that he was not keeping the Law as he
and the Pharisees pretended to do. R5369:3
Luke 10:29
To justify himself -- In the estimation of some present who, by their

incredulous faces, indicated that they did not think this man always acted
as if he loved his neighbor as himself, and God supremely. R1940:4
Said unto Jesus -- Very shrewdly avoiding discussion of the first
commandment, respecting love for God, because no one can thoroughly judge
another in respect to this feature of the Law. R2683:6
Who is my neighbor? -- The lawyer sought to imply that God's Law did not
include everybody as his neighbor, but only special ones. R5369:5
In a special sense the Jews recognized themselves as being God's people.
Therefore under the Law they recognized each other as neighbors; for they
were all the people of the Lord. R5699:3
There was a difference of opinion here amongst the most learned Jews--some
claiming that it meant all Jews, and Jews only. Others claimed that it
would mean only those Jews who lived holy lives. R2683:6
The scribes and Pharisees felt that their neighbors were those who
belonged to their class, to their set, to their station in life. R3804:2
Apparently recognizing this as his most vulnerable point. He knew, in his
daily life, he was not loving his neighbor as himself, but making a wide
discrimination between his own class and the common people, the publicans
and sinners. R3804:1
We are to recognize every one who is in adversity and needing our help as
our neighbor. R3804:5
Luke 10:30
Jerusalem to Jericho -- Along a bridle path, in some places quite steep,

passing through a gorge in the mountains, a vicinity infested with
robbers, who lived in the numerous caves. R3804:2, 2684:4
Fell among thieves -- Even today it is the custom for travelers to have
an armed escort of Arabs on this journey to Jericho. R3804:2
Luke 10:31
A certain priest -- One of the highest representatives of the Law.

R5369:5, 2684:1
Jericho was one of the appointed cities of the priests and Levites. It is
estimated that 12,000 of them resided there. They took their turns at the
service in the Temple at Jerusalem, and, consequently, were frequently on
this road. R2684:4
He passed by -- The priest, most fully consecrated to the service of God
in the temple, is represented as having least interest in the brother in
distress. R2684:4
As if he were afraid he would be contaminated by even paying attention to
the sufferer. Q808:2
Lest he also might be beset by robbers. R3804:2
We are inclined to believe that the priests and Levites, on account of
their office, were generally exempted from molestation by the robbers.
R2684:5
On the other side -- His effort to evade responsibility by passing by on
the other side of the roadway proved that he understood the neighborly
obligation of human brotherhood. R1767:6
Luke 10:32
A Levite -- Not so close, in relationship to God, as a priest. R5699:3,

5369:5
Consecrated to God's service, set apart as instructors of the people, to
guide them by word and example. R3804:3, 2684:5, 5369:5
Most of the Doctors of the Law were Levites. R2684:2
Came and looked -- The Levite was more disposed to consider the poor
brother. He went so far as to stand and look at the sufferer and to think
over how much trouble would be involved in assisting him and how much risk
he himself might run in so doing. R2684:5
Passed by -- Unwilling to spend the time necessary to render assistance.
R3804:2
Luke 10:33
A certain Samaritan -- One not in relationship to God at all. R5699:6,

5369:5
A mixed people, common, and despised by the priestly class of Jews. Q808:2
Unrecognized by God and disowned by his favored people. This heightens the
force of the picture. R2684:5
Introduced into the parable to make a strong contrast before the minds of
the hearers, and to say, A neighbor is one who does a neighborly act,
however high or low he may be on the scale of intelligence, dignity or
It might be that some who are strangers to God as yet, might be good
Samaritans by nature, rather than by grace; and some, who have been
begotten again may naturally have less of this good Samaritan element of
kindness and generosity, because low born according to the flesh. R2684:5
Luke 10:34
Took care of him -- Sacrificing his own time and strength in the wounded
man's interest. R5369:5
Luke 10:35
Two pence -- Representing two days' wages. R4622:3

Come again -- Return from Jerusalem. R5369:5
Luke 10:36
Was neighbor -- Would fulfill the requirements of the Law, in your

judgment? R5369:5
Not that the Samaritan of the parable, by doing a kind and neighborly act,
won for himself the inheritance of eternal life. R2684:1
If we appreciate the conception of a true neighbor which our Lord gave,
then let us observe the Golden Rule. R5699:6
The whole world are neighbors, no matter how far apart they are. R5699:6
Every man is neighbor to every other man. To ignore the claims of human
brotherhood is meanly selfish and inhuman. R1940:4; Q808:2
Luke 10:37
And he said -- He himself belonged to the Levite class condemned by the

parable. R3804:3
That shewed mercy -- Jesus showed him out of his own testimony that he
was not keeping the law as he pretended to do and as the Pharisees in
general pretended to do. R5369:3
We are to express our love for our neighbor by being thoughtful and
considerate of his welfare and interests, and helpful to him as far as in
our power, other obligations being considered. R5700:1
Do thou likewise -- Go and understand that any man in the world, friend
or foe, is your neighbor and is to be loved and served by you as you may
have opportunity. R3804:3
Be kind, thoughtful, generous, toward any human being who is in
affliction, in need of help. R5369:6
Be a living exemplification of the Apostle's injunction: doing good to all
men as you have opportunity, especially to the household of faith. (Gal.
6:10) R2684:6; Q808:2
Show the spirit of love toward any man in the world, friend or foe.
R3804:3, 5699:6, 5369:6, 1768:1, 1767:6
The evil designs of the unbeliever were frustrated. R1940:4
Recognize the obligations of human brotherhood, and the Golden Rule.
R1768:1
Luke 10:39
Heard his word -- The Lord's people should not think that time taken for
communion with the Lord and for study of his Word is wasted time. NS86:6
Let us have in mind that he is specially pleased when we give earnest
attention to his words and seek to be filled with and guided by his
Spirit. R5371:4
Luke 10:40
Much serving -- Martha chose a good part. She was indeed "not slothful
in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord." (Rom. 12:11) NS86:3
Dost thou not care -- Our Lord's contrast between the two sisters would
probably not have been brought out had not Martha murmured against her
sister, thinking her indifferent to the proper hospitality of the home.
NS86:3
Luke 10:41
And Jesus answered -- The remark being called forth by Martha's

complaint against her sister. R2743:3
Thou art careful -- Worried. R4489:2*
Jesus did not disapprove of Martha and her carefulness as a cook in
providing for his comfort. R5371:4
Luke 10:42
Chosen the good part -- Martha loved the Lord so that she wanted to do
for him. Mary loved the Lord and the things which the Lord loved and
delighted to talk about, to such an extent that she could not forego the
pleasure of his company and fellowship. NS86:3
Mary appreciated more than Martha the spiritual food which the Lord was
dispensing. NS86:4
Every day and every hour we are confronted with conflicting interests and
propositions. NS80:2
A principle illustrated in the choices of Abraham, Jacob and Esau, Joseph
and our Lord, as compared to that of Satan. NS81-84
While service is quite acceptable and appreciated, veneration and
fellowship are still more appreciated. R2743:3
He is specially pleased when we give earnest attention to his words, and
seek to be filled with his spirit. R5371:4
The Lord never taught the multitudes to pray nor intimated that they
should. The privilege of prayer implies intimate acquaintance with the
Creator. R3805:2
The prayer of God's people should not be for temporal things. R5624:4
"Prayer is the soul's sincere desire, uttered or unexpressed." R2251:2
There is a difference between worship--adoration, homage--and prayer.
Expressing thanks anyone may do; but making requests of God in prayer is a
limited privilege. R5379:1
None is privileged to pray unless he is a consecrated disciple of Jesus.
R5379:2
As children of God, we are to conform our prayers to what he has said.
R5624:6
Luke 11
Luke 11:1
As he was praying -- Realizing the importance of his mission, Jesus kept

properly in touch with the great Author of the plan of salvation, his
If he, in his perfection, needed to have spiritual fellowship and
communion with the Father, we, his disciples, imperfect, have much more
need to look continually to the Lord for guidance and comfort. R3351:3
Apparently Jesus usually prayed alone. On some occasions he spent the
entire night in prayer to God. R5378:3, 3351:3
Instead of urging them to pray, Jesus by his example taught them to desire
the privilege and blessing of prayer. R5379:1
Perceiving his intimate communication with God, and that God always
promptly heard and answered him, they evidently felt that there must be
something in his manner of approach to God which secured such prompt
recognition and answers. R1945:5
His disciples said -- The Lord waited until they asked him for
instruction on the subject. R3805:2
No doubt they noted the Master's frequency in prayer, and the blessing
which he seemed to receive therefrom. R5379:1
Lord, teach us to pray -- Not that the disciples had never prayed. In
common with the Jews in general, they had been accustomed to go to God in
prayer. They realized that, as our Lord's teachings were different from
the scribes and Pharisees, so also his conception of prayer was probably
different. R3351:2, 1945:1
Had he been much in the habit of praying with them audibly, we may presume
that they would have known to take his style of praying as proper copy for
their own. R3351:6
It is well that we inquire who may pray, and for what things we may
petition the great Creator, else we might be praying without authority, or
praying amiss, as St. James declares some do. R5379:1
Luke 11:2
When ye pray, say -- Not "say ye," but rather, as elsewhere given,
"after this manner pray ye." (Matt. 6:9)--our Lord gave not the words for
our prayers, but a general sample of style. R3351:6, 3806:4
Our prayers should be uttered, formulated, and, if possible, not be left
merely to incoherent feelings. R2251:3
A sample prayer, a suggestion of the general character of their petitions,
and not to be understood as binding their terms, their expressions, their
words. R3806:4
The account of this prayer, as given by Luke, differs considerably from
the account given by Matthew, which is apparently the much more complete
statement. R3351:6
Our spirit or intention is accepted by the Lord in seasons of distress,
when we cannot utter the words. R2251:2
We are to be constantly in an attitude of prayer. R3351:5, 3806:1
Our Father -- The term, Our Father, would necessarily be a new one to
the Jews, for they were a house of servants. This prayer would assure them
that God recognized them, not as servants merely, but as sons. R3352:1
Implying that the suppliant is on terms of intimate acquaintance with the
great Creator of the universe, so that he is welcomed into the divine
presence and heart. R3805:3
Only those who have become God's children by forsaking sin and laying hold
upon Christ as their Savior are accorded the privilege of approaching the
throne of grace. R3805:3
Implying: (1) faith in the divine being; (2) dependence upon him; (3)
faith that a way of reconciliation has been effected through the Redeemer;
and (4) a realization that the Creator no longer condemns the suppliant,
but accepts him as his son. R3805:3
The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ is our Father who hath
begotten us. R297:1
It is devoid of selfishness. Instead of "I" and "me," the prayer is
comprehensive of all who are truly the Lord's people, in any class--we,
us, our. R5379:2, 3805:5
Does not imply the fatherhood of God to all mankind. R2252:6
We might reasonably suppose that the children of believers and justified
believers, who have not yet reached the point of making a consecration,
would have the right of addressing the Redeemer in prayer. R3806:3
The man of the world, when first getting a view of his lost condition,
should "come to Jesus." (Matt. 11:28) After his justification he comes to
the Father in Jesus' name. R469:4*
What could be more reverent than this bold approach, direct to the throne
of the heavenly grace. R2005:1
God, in calling himself our Father, does not borrow the epithet from
earth. In the very beginning he founded the earthly parental relation that
it might explain the heavenly. It is the invisible world which is the
fact; it is the visible world which is the metaphor. R29:5*
"Children of wrath" (Eph. 2:3), "children of the devil" (1 John 3:10),
have no right to pray thus. R2252:6
"To as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of
God." (John 1:12) The affection of a true father for his child is one of
the most precious in the world. R3352:1
The word "our" implies an interest in the other sons of the family of God.
R3805:5
The prayer of the publican, approved by our Lord, did not address Jehovah
as "Father" but as "God." (Luke 18:13) R2251:3
How inconsistent if Jesus himself were the Father!. R5378:3
In the type none but the priests offered incense before the Lord, teaching
that only the Royal Priesthood now have this privilege. R3806:3
No unconsecrated believer has any acceptance at the throne of grace.
R3806:3
Which art in heaven -- As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are
the Lord's ways and provisions higher than our conception and in every way
to be preferred. R3806:1
The Bible gives God a home, or locality, and does not teach that he is
everywhere. OV375:2
Hallowed be -- Expressing adoration and appreciation of divine goodness
and greatness, and a corresponding reverence. R3352:2
An acknowledgment of God's greatness, and implies our humility and
littleness. R2252:6
We honor his name--put it first in our petitions. R5624:5
We should approach with humility, simplicity and reverence, and in the
name of Jesus. R2251:3
The proper reverential attitude of a believer toward God. R1945:6, 5379:3,
3806:3, 3352:2, 2005:1
Reverence for God should be first in all our thoughts, but is losing
ground everywhere in our day, even among the Lord's true people. R5624:5,
3352:2
Thy name -- Even his very name is revered as holy by the true
worshipper. R2253:1 Thy character. R5379:3
His name stands for everything that is just, wise and loving. R3806:4
We are to pray for nothing that would not be in accord with the honor of
our Heavenly Father's name, considering first the will and honor of God as
superior to our own and every other interest. R3352:2
A name represents the character, the disposition or qualities or powers of
an individual. R3687:3
Thy kingdom come -- These words are not found in the older manuscripts
in Luke, but are found in the Matthew manuscript, and therefore properly
considered a part of the petition. R3806:4
Not proceeding hastily to the lesser things of a personal character.
R2005:1
As God and his glory and honor are to be first in the minds of his
children, so the next thought should be for the glorious Kingdom, which he
has promised shall bless the world. R3352:3
Carrying the thought of joint-heirship with our Lord in the great
Millennial Kingdom. NS141:5
The promise and hope held before the Church was always the hope of the
Kingdom. R1855:3
The Church is the Kingdom in the embryo sense. When glorified with full
Kingdom power and glory, it shall bless the families of the earth. HG146:3
We must be born again; begotten of the Spirit now, and in resurrection
power born of the Spirit, if we shall share with our Lord in this
wonderful Kingdom. HG145:3; NS102:3
The "manifestation of the sons of God" (Rom. 8:19) will be their
glorification as the Kingdom Church in glory. HG234:6
We are not to permit our own personal needs to be too prominent, but are
to remember that the whole creation is groaning and travailing in pain
together, waiting for this glorious Kingdom. R3352:3
It is fitting that all who approach God in prayer should previously have
searched to know something of what he has revealed concerning his will and
plan. R2005:1
We do right to pray this week after week, year after year, century after
century. To grow faint or weary in prayer would not be right. The proper
course is to believe what God has promised. Q539:4
Not a demand; rather, an acknowledgment of faith in the divine promise
that a heavenly Kingdom shall, in God's due time, be established in the
earth. R2253:1
Not a petition that God would bring in his Kingdom before his appointed
time, nor an expression of an impatient longing for it, but an expression
of hope, trust and patient waiting. R2005:1
No attempt to tell the Lord what must be done, and how and when his
Kingdom must be established; but merely expressing acquiescence with the
divine arrangement, and rejoicing therein. R2253:2
Not only manifesting faith in God and in his promise to establish
righteousness in the earth, but that the suppliant is in his heart in
sympathy with God and his righteousness and out of sympathy with the Reign
of Sin and Death. R5379:3
Longing for the Kingdom that will bless the world, they also long for the
promised privilege of being joint-heirs with their Redeemer as members of
that Kingdom class. R3806:5
Our thoughts respecting the Kingdom will remind us that if we are to be
heirs of the Kingdom it will be necessary that we have the appropriate
discipline and training. R3352:4
World-wide, as pictured by the stone which smote the image becoming
exceeding great and filling the whole earth. (Dan. 2:35) NS27:5
Established upon the ruins of present institutions. NS13:5, 57:5
Following the Armageddon of anarchy. HG674:3
This thought will make all the afflictions and trials of the present time
seem to us light afflictions. R3352:4
This petition is not a demand, but an expression of faith in God's
promise. R2253:1, 5379:3, 5020:2
To abolish sin and establish righteousness in the earth. R5379:3, 3352:4
For the blessing of the whole world. R1945:6, 3352:3
For a thousand years The Christ will bless mankind, uplifting them to
human perfection, mental, moral, physical. R5768:5
Eventually shall be "the desire of all nations." (Hag. 2:7) R2685:2
In glory and power. R1908:3, 3352:3, 2231:1; OV359:3
The very thing that the whole world needs. R5624:5
The panacea for every ill and trouble, for ourselves and all men. R3352:3
Messianic Kingdom, the Kingdom of God's dear Son. R4973:4; SM60:2
Those who have part in the first resurrection will share in the throne, in
its glory and work of blessing. R3832:5, 5761:6, 3352:4, 2924:3
There can be no paradise until his Kingdom shall come and present empires
pass away. R3902:4, 5789:4 A humble acknowledgment that it has not yet
come, although this prayer has been offered for nineteen centuries.
R2253:1, 3353:6, 3355:3, 2375:2, 1718:4; SM14:T
We are now living in the time when the new Reign of Righteousness shall be
inaugurated. OV350:2
According to the prophecies, Messiah's Kingdom began in 1878, and will be
fully inaugurated at the close of the great time of trouble. R5762:1
There are evidences on every hand that we are in the dawning of the
Kingdom, even though its Sun of Righteousness cannot fully arise until the
Church shall have passed beyond the veil. R5762:2
If Christ had his Kingdom, we would not be praying thus. Q523:5
Many peculiar ideas prevail because of a false theory that the Kingdom has
already been set up in glory. The present war [1915] is the beginning of a
series of troubles which will wind up the present order of things and
inaugurate the new dispensation of Messiah's Kingdom. R5761:6
When the Church shall all have been gathered, then Messiah's Kingdom will
be established for which we pray. R5768:5
All blessings are of the Father. E45
Messiah's Kingdom has various stages of inauguration. First, in his
parousia, the resurrection of the sleeping saints; next, his dealing with
the living members of his Body and their glorification; then the dominion
of the world, revealed in a great time of trouble. Thus, the Kingdom of
Messiah will be born in a terrible travail, after which "the desire of all
nations shall come." (Hag. 2:7) Civ,v
The complete overthrow of all human government will open the way for the
full establishment of the Kingdom. Bix
The establishment of the long promised Kingdom of Messiah is just before
us, and is now in progress. B363 We pray especially for the spiritual
phase, where our inheritance is. R287:4
While continuing to pray thus, let us continue to labor in
character-preparation that we may be found worthy of a place in that
Kingdom. R5762:2
The thought that it consists merely of a sovereignty in the hearts of his
followers in the present life is unscriptural. R5049:3
Messiah's Kingdom began in 1878. It will be fully inaugurated at the close
of the great time of trouble, already beginning in Europe and Mexico.
R5762:1,2
Thy will be done -- Implying that the offerer has made a full
consecration of his will, wishing that God's will rule in his own
heart--now, in the earthly condition, even as he hopes to have it
perfected in the Kingdom. R3352:5; C22
An expression of confidence that the Kingdom will effect the full
restoration of the earth to its Edenic condition and of man to his
primeval perfection in the image of his Creator. R5379:4
This would be impossible aside from the associated promise of the Bible
that the present dispensation of preaching the Gospel is eventually to
give way to the Messianic Kingdom and its reign of force. HG669:2
Surely no sane mind would claim that the conversion of the world to
so-called Christendom fulfills this description of the Millennial peace
and good will. C178
As in heaven -- The world of mankind will be as happy in God's favor as
are the angels now. R5379:4
So in earth -- Many Christians seem to have forgotten the import of
these words. B13
Our great Messiah is about to overthrow sin and evil, and establish
righteousness, which will insure that to all eternity God's will shall be
done as perfectly in this earth as it is now done in heaven. OV341:8
When Jehovah's feet will be established, and his footstool made glorious.
(Isa. 66:1; 60:13) R287:4
The glory of God will fill the whole earth, destroying all willful
opposers. R5379:4
Luke 11:3
Give us -- The only petition that can be construed to apply to even the
simplest of earthly blessings. This may also be understood to signify more
particularly spiritual nourishment. R5379:3
Contentment is the very spirit of this petition. R2253:2
Bless our efforts at procuring and eating. There are occasional spiritual
dyspeptics who eat and work not, but the great difficulty with most
Christians is that they eat not at all, or else eat so sparingly that they
are dying of starvation. R23:5
God knows what we have need of, and provides these things aside from our
asking. R5624:5
Whoever "asks the blessing" at table should ask something in connection
with the food and not attempt to pray for neighbors, relatives, etc.
R5020:4
Day by day -- Literally translated, "be giving continually our daily
bread." R2253:2
Matthew's statement is preferable, "Give us this day." The thought seems
to be that of continual dependence upon the Lord for the things needed.
R3352:5
Not for a long time ahead. R2253:2
Not for superabundance or for luxuries. R2253:2, 3806:5, 3352:6, 2005:2,
1945:6
Our daily bread -- "Our needful bread" (American Rev.). There is no
attempt here to supplicate delicacies. R3806:5, 3352:6, 2005:2
In the broad sense of food and raiment--things necessary. R3352:5
The child of God on common fare and in common clothing may really be much
happier than are some much more prosperous in temporal matters. R3352:6
If we do nothing more than pray, God might let us starve. He puts within
our reach the needful means of procuring the food, and we say the food
comes from him. Neither will the asking of a blessing on food fill you,
you must eat it. R376:2
Implies our realization that our sustenance, both temporal and spiritual,
must come from God. The failure to specify any particular kind of food
implies a full resignation to the provision of divine wisdom. R5379:4
To the Spirit-begotten these words imply more particularly the spiritual
food. It is the new creature offering the petition. This will imply that
it is the nourishment of the new creature that is chiefly under
The spiritually-minded will be asking for the spiritual food, the
spiritual necessities, day by day. R2253:3
Not specialization in prayer. Whatever we have, we acknowledge our
dependence upon the Lord for what he provides for us; and we ask for
nothing beyond what he does provide--"your bread and water shall be sure."
(Isa. 33:16) R5202:4
Luke 11:4
Forgive us our sins -- Not original sin, we were freed from that
condemnation in justification, but those unintentional imperfections which
appertain to all, and which all the followers of Jesus are striving to
overcome. R5379:4, 3806:6, 3353:1
Appropriately acknowledging, daily, that we are trespassers. R2005:2
To petition the Lord for forgiveness of sins implies that we are at heart
opposed to the sins, and signifies that we recognize that the robe of
Christ's righteousness granted to us has become spotted or sullied, and
that we desire to have it cleansed. R3353:1
Thus we (1) learn to keep track of our blemishes; (2) are continually
reminded of our dependence upon the merit of our Savior; and (3) are
assisted in being merciful, compassionate and gracious toward others.
R3807:1
Walking after the flesh we find that we cannot come up to the Spirit,
hence our "debts." R3806:6
In his own appointed way, through Christ. R1945:6, 4615:4
"If any man sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ." (1
John 2:1) R4615:5
For we also forgive -- God's mercy is proportionate to ours. R3806:6,
2005:2
Let every Christian in approaching the throne of heavenly grace daily
inquire of his own heart, whether or not he has forgiven those who are
indebted to him. R2253:4
A reminder of the general terms of our relationship to God. We cannot grow
in grace except as we cultivate the spirit of love, which is the spirit of
God--a forgiving, generous spirit in our dealings with others. R5379:5
Equivalent to a bargain with God, that we accept his terms of mercy, and
will expect none, except as we ourselves exercise it toward others. R2005:2
None will gain a place in the Kingdom class, in the Bride, except they
have this forgiving quality of love. R3353:4
How just and wise is the divine arrangement which requires of us, in
applying for mercy, to pledge ourselves to the Lord that we are also
merciful, forgiving to others. R3807:1
If fully appreciated, it would influence God's sons to be kind and
generous, in thought as well as in word and deed. R2005:3
The Lord would develop in his consecrated people the spirit of the Father.
R3353:3
This does not mean the forgiveness of financial indebtedness and
destruction of our account books, except those of the debtor willing, but
unable, to pay. R2253:4
This does not imply that we should pay no attention to the transgressions
of others against ourselves, that we should not recognize offenses. R2253:4
Only as we are merciful to others will he deal mercifully with us in
respect to our trespasses. R5624:5, 5379:5
The very essence of Christian principle is love, sympathy, and the
forgiveness of the faults of others. R2253:3
We may not forgive in the absolute sense until our forgiveness is asked;
yet we should be always in a forgiving attitude. R2295:6, 2296:4, 2253:4,
4978:1, 4650:5
Everyone that is indebted -- Matthew's rendering is better: "Those who
trespass against us." As we are imperfect and cannot keep the divine law,
so likewise others are imperfect. R3353:3
Lead us not -- These words are not in the original in Luke's account,
but they are found in Matthew's account, and hence are properly a part of
the prayer. R3807:2
The Diaglott renders it, "Abandon us not to trial". R2005:3, 5379:5
Not that we fear God will tempt us, but that we entreat him that he may
guide our steps so that no temptation or trial come upon us that will be
too severe for us. R3353:4, 3807:2
Implies a determination to resist sin, as well as a leaning upon God for
assistance. R1945:6
To amplify for better understanding: "And bring us not into temptation
[merely], but [also] deliver us from the evil one." It is a part of the
divine arrangement to permit us to be put into positions of trial and
testing. R2253:5
Into temptation -- "God tempteth no man." (Jas. 1:13) R2253:5
A man is tempted when he is led astray and enticed by his own selfish,
fallen desires; he sins when he yields to those desires. (Jas. 1:14)
R2005:3
Indicates that we are aware that we are surrounded by the powers of evil,
and that as new creatures we would be unable to withstand these
successfully except as we should have divine aid. R5379:5
Temptations are of the Adversary, and of our own fallen natures--through
our flesh and the weaknesses of others. R3353:4
Since chastisements and temptations (or trials) are necessary to our
preparation for the Kingdom, it would not be appropriate for us to pray
that the Lord would spare us from all trials. R2005:3, 3807:2, 2253:5
We will not be tempted above that we are able. (1 Cor. 10:13) R3353:4,
3807:3, 2253:5
Expresses a desire for assistance in the hour of temptation, that we may
not be overcome by it. R1945:6
How foolish to pray thus and not watch! R3939:5
Deliver us -- These words are not found in the original, but
corresponding words are found in Matthew's record. R3353:5
A recognition that Satan is our great Adversary; and that we are on the
alert to resist him, and yet realize our own insufficiency, our need of
divine aid. R5379:5
As we pray, we surely will labor in the same direction. R3353:5
Provide a way of escape when we are sore distressed. (1 Cor. 10:13)
R3353:4, 2005:3
From evil -- From the Evil One. R5379:5
Never more needed than at present. God is permitting the Adversary to
bring strong delusions upon the world and the nominal church because the
time has come for a complete separation of the wheat from the tares.
R3353:5
Also the Evil One, ever ready to attack us, to the extent the Lord
permits. R3807:2, 5379:5, 3353:5, 2253:5, 2005:3
Luke 11:5
Said unto them -- Our Lord gives us a parable. R3353:6, 5020:2, 3807:4
Luke 11:8
Because of his importunity -- Not by way of implying that God is averse

to his people's requests and will only grant them when their comings
become tedious to him. R3353:6
Pray perseveringly. R5381:2*
God has the blessing, and not only is able to give it, but has promised to
do so. The delay in granting the request is because his due time has not
come. Hence we are not to give up nor to become weary, but to be constant
in our prayers. R5020:2; Q539:4
The Lord's people need to be much more solicitous and earnest in respect
to the heavenly blessings they desire. R3353:6, 3807:5
So earnest for the Kingdom, the honor of the Father's name, the bread of
life, for deliverance from the evil one, for God's keeping power, that we
go to him day by day. R3807:5
This is very different from the "vain repetitions" which our Lord
condemned. (Matt. 6:7) R5020:4; Q539:6
He will rise -- We are not to think that our prayers for the Kingdom are
unheeded. R5379:5
And give him -- This should strengthen our faith and earnest desire to
come often to his footstool and tarry long in his presence. R1946:1
Luke 11:9
Ask -- Sincerely, truly. R2590:1

He would have us feel our need, he would have us appreciate the privilege,
he would have us look for the response, and in all these experiences he
would develop us as his sons of the new creation. R3807:4
The intimation is that the asking of the Father is a means by which we may
more and more receive of the sap of the Vine, the holy Spirit, and be
enabled to develop the fruits of the Spirit. R2466:3
Ask nothing that will not be hallowing and honoring to our Heavenly
Father's name, nothing that would be an interference with the coming of
his Kingdom, ask in harmony with the divine plan. R3354:1
Nothing here implies the seeking or finding of earthly good things. R2466:3
To be done individually. Because someone is dear to us we should not
necessarily conclude that the Lord would choose such a one. We are to
preach the word to such, encourage their consecration, and, in connection
with that consecration, we are to urge them to ask for themselves. R3354:1
It shall be given you -- You will receive his grace and help in the
direction asked. R2590:1
Let your faith grow strong by meditation upon the promises. R5381:5*
Seek -- While asking, it is our duty to be seeking the things which we
lack, the holy Spirit of love to fill our hearts. R2590:1
The believer, assuming that there is superhuman wisdom in the divine Word,
investigates from that standpoint. NS63:2
In the "Law and the testimony." (Isa. 8:20) E167
The more he seeketh, the more he findeth. R4983:6
We may ask for a share in the Kingdom. R3354:1
Desiring to be filled with God's Spirit, to be in harmony with him, in his
character-likeness. R5379:6, 3807:6
And ye shall find -- In proportion to his consecration and Christian
development, one finds more and more that the testimonies of the Lord's
Word are sure, "making wise the simple." (Psa. 19:7) NS63:2
Knock -- Upon the Lord's store-house of grace and blessing by continued
efforts, as well as by prayer. R2590:2
The door of knowledge shall be opened. E167
The door of privilege, of opportunity; continual knocking means increasing
desire to enter. R4983:6
Luke 11:10
For every one -- If we come in the frame of mind indicated by our Lord,
we shall never be turned away empty. R1946:1
Findeth -- He will reveal his true character to them. OV2:2
Luke 11:11
Ask bread -- As earthly parents set the food within reach of the family,
but do not force it upon them, so our heavenly Parent has set within the
reach of his spiritual family the good provision of his grace, but he does
not force them upon us. E225
That is a father -- The human father's love is to men a helping image of
the Heavenly Father's. R29:4*
Give him a stone -- The force of our Lord's language is seen if we
remember that the bread of oriental countries very much resembles a stone.
R3807:5
Traditions as indigestible as a stone. HG692:3
We should not be afraid that our Heavenly Father would give any bad
answers to our requests. R5379:6
The experiences of life, its trials, disappointments, discouragements,
oppositions, are not as stones, but are blessings in disguise, if we
receive them in the proper spirit. R3807:6
Give him a serpent -- Some kinds of serpents resemble certain kinds of
fish. R3807:6
Luke 11:12
Offer him a scorpion -- There is a small white scorpion which rolls

itself up in the shape of an egg. R3807:6
Luke 11:13
To give good gifts -- A comparison between kind earthly parents giving

natural food to their children, and our kind Heavenly Father giving his
holy Spirit to them that ask him. E224
Earthly gifts. R1581:4, 3665:4, 2006:1
We are not to pray for earthly things--food, drink, clothing, etc. F685;
3354:2
Not injurious things instead. R3807:5
How much more -- We may expect that he will give what is best, and we
may rest ourselves content in that promise of the Father. E223
The thing received will never be harmful or useless. R1946:1
He will have pleasure in giving us the desires of our hearts if in harmony
with his plan. R4983:6
Jesus set forth the glorious standard of our Father. R5834:2
Your Heavenly Father give -- Although "all things are by the Son" (1
Cor. 8:6), yet here, as everywhere, he gives the glory and honor, as the
fountain of blessings, to the Father. E222
Our Heavenly Father has good things; he has promised them to us; he takes
delight in giving them to us, yet some of them are afar off. R3353:6
The Father will be pleased to so order the affairs of such that hindrances
to the Spirit shall be overcome, that his loving Spirit may abound in
them. E223
Though he give it gradually to us, and not perhaps as rapidly and as fully
as we request it. R3665:4
We are to think of him as rich, benevolent, kind and generous, wise as
well as loving. R4983:6
The Holy Spirit -- This is exactly what is needed, as an offset to the
unholy, unloving, selfish, judging and fault-finding spirit of the flesh.
R2590:2
Not the miraculous gifts of the spirit enjoyed by the primitive Church,
but to the holy spirit, or disposition, "the mind of Christ". R3153:4
While it is entirely out of harmony with God's Word to pray for another
baptism of the holy Spirit, it is right to pray to be kept filled with the
holy Spirit. R376:2; E223
The graces of the holy Spirit are specially stated to be open to our
requests and corresponding efforts. R2006:1
The one thing for which we should specially seek and specially pray is the
holy Spirit--the spirit of holiness, the spirit of God, the spirit of
Christ, the spirit of the Truth, the spirit of a sound mind, the spirit of
love. F685; R5036:6, 2722:4
The holy Spirit is the spirit of love--to God and man. It cannot be given
to us under present conditions except gradually, as the old, selfish,
wrong spirit is deposed from our hearts. R3665:4
The requests of the advanced saints are for spiritual favors. R1581:4
As new creatures our desires should be specially for the things that
pertain to the new creature, and it is this class of blessing the Lord
invites us to ask for and to wrestle to obtain. R2865:6
The "Spirit of truth" stands ready to give us the filling we desire, but
we must partake of--eat--the feast, or we will not be filled. He who will
not eat of a full table will starve as truly as though there were no food.
R376:2; D225
Nothing in this Scripture can in any manner be construed to imply that the
Heavenly Father would be pleased to have his children ask him for another
God--a third person of a trinity of co-equal Gods. E224
Given only in a very special manner, during a very special age, for a very
special purpose. R5133:3
The spirit of the truth, of Christ, of a sound mind, of wisdom. R2866:1,
5202:4, 5036:6, 193:1*
The spiritual blessings and experiences which develop in his children his
own Spirit. R3806:6; OV404:3
"The words that I speak unto you...are spirit." (John 6:63) E225
Set before the family as bread, fish and eggs, but not forced on any. E224
We need not, as do the unregenerate and the heathen, pray for earthly
blessings. E223
To them -- Consecrated disciples of Jesus who earnestly seek it. R5379:6
That ask him -- When we ask for anything, it implies that we want it,
and if wholly consecrated, we should want to receive the holy Spirit in
the way God wishes to give it. R376:2
It is God's good pleasure to give us this spirit of love; but he gives it
only to those who desire and seek it with patient perseverance. R3153:4
The Lord has revealed himself to his people for the very purpose of giving
them this blessing; nevertheless, he withholds it until they learn to
appreciate and earnestly desire it. R2866:1, 2123:4*
If we merely pray for the Spirit and do not use the proper means to obtain
the Spirit of truth, we will continue to be at most only "babes in
Christ." E225
Not that we must necessarily use the words, "Give me the holy Spirit," or
that we should ask for a Pentecostal blessing; but that we should ask for
the spirit of the truth, of a sound mind, for the wisdom which comes from
above. R5202:3
Ask for more and more of the holy Spirit--a disposition more and more
fully in harmony with his Spirit. E223
So that we can go forth from victory unto victory. R2123:3
It is useless to pray if we neglect to feed. E225
Luke 11:15
Casteth out devils -- Everywhere the Scriptures set forth that this host
of spirit beings are associated with our earth, and not in
some far-off fiery furnace torturing the human dead. R5378:1
It is estimated that fully one-half of those in insane asylums are
demon-possessed. R5378:1
Through Beelzebub -- The first, and for a long time the only, enemy of
the divine government. R2171:5
Satan, the prince of the demons. R3310:4, 3309:4
Some evilly declared that the demons obeyed Jesus because he himself was
Beelzebub. (Matt. 10:25) R5378:2
Refuted by Jesus' refusal to accept the testimony from this demon. The
Scriptures everywhere represent Satan and his fallen spirits as lying
spirits, deceiving the people. R3310:4
The chief -- Doubtless because of being by nature a superior order of
being. R2171:5
Of the devils -- The angels which fell at the time of the flood.
R2171:5; SM548:1,2
Luke 11:16
A sign from heaven -- Saying, Your miracles are all earthly. R5378:2
Luke 11:18
If Satan also -- It would be foolish for Satan to cast out Satan;

consequently their argument should have no weight. R5378:2
Be divided -- Satan has considerable of "the power of death," including
disease, but we are not informed that he has the power of life, which
includes health; and if he had that power, he surely has not the desire to
do good and bless except as a means to delude and counteract by
counterfeiting the truth. R760:4
Would signify a warfare in the camp of the evil ones. R5378:2
Against himself -- By aiding the miraculous cure of the sick. F641
As he is now doing through "Christian Science." R2189:1, 3784:3
How shall -- When he has to resort to such desperate measures as working
against his own plans. R3784:2
I cast out devils--The power of Jesus in casting out demons showed that he
was thoroughly competent to deal with the prince of this world, the prince
of darkness, Satan. R5378:3
Luke 11:19
Your sons cast them out -- You never charged them with being the prince
of demons. R5378:2
Be your judges -- Judge according to this whether your argument against
me is good. R5378:2
Luke 11:20
The finger of God -- The power of God. R5378:2

God's power in small portion. A hand represents power, so the little
finger represents a little bit of power. So Jesus said, If I by the finger
of God do so and so, God is able to do more. These are little things in
comparison to God's power. Q496:T
Each individual Christian, so to speak, is a finger of the Lord, as our
Redeemer said, "I, as a finger of God." If we would be useful as God's
agencies, we should seek to be guided by him. R4357:2
Which I do not claim as my own power. E271
Is come upon you -- The power of the Kingdom is being exercised in your
midst. R5378:3
Luke 11:21
A strong man armed -- Satan. R5378:4

Keepeth his palace -- Maintaining his control of the world. R5378:4
Luke 11:22
Stronger than he -- The Messianic Kingdom will be stronger than that of

Satan. R5378:4
And overcome him -- "And he laid hold on that old serpent, which is the
devil and Satan, and bound him a thousand years." (Rev. 20:2) C341
Luke 11:23
Is against me -- There are only the two masters--people are serving

either the one or the other. R5378:5
Luke 11:25
Findeth it swept -- He did not receive into it the good Shepherd of his
soul, but stood for righteousness merely in his own strength. R4218:4
Luke 11:26
Then goeth he -- Satan will seek to regain control through the spirit of
the world--pride, anger, malice, hatred, strife. R5378:5
If Christ has not been enthroned in the mind already weakened by previous
obsession. R2173:3
They enter in -- Even if justified from past sins, we need an occupant
for our hearts--the Divine One. R4291:5
With any departure from loyalty to righteousness and truth comes a
corresponding separation from holy protecting influences and a consequent
exposure of heart to the malevolent influences of the fallen angels.
R4218:4
Remembering that the Memorial is not only the anniversary of our Lord's
sufferings, but also of Judas' treachery, false kiss and question, "Is it
I?", let us remember the constant danger of Satan entering into our
hearts. R1943:5
Worse than the first -- If Satan be not resisted, the danger is that the
blessing received through the knowledge of God will become a curse.
R5378:5 The fallen angels, ever ready to enter into such, and more
seriously than ever defile them. R4218:4
Luke 11:28
And keep it -- If we had all knowledge and zeal and had not the spirit
of obedience it would evidence a lack of the spirit of love, and prove us
unworthy of the divine favor and blessings promised. R3678:5
Luke 11:30
For as Jonas -- The Jonah story corroborated by a report in a secular

journal. R3373:3
Contrary to the belief of many modern theologians. A61; R3373:3
Luke 11:31
And condemn them -- Just as heathendom will condemn Christendom for its
misuse of divine favor. D72
Luke 11:33
Hath lighted -- With the light of the truth. R5378:6; E293

A light of faith, hope and love, ignited in the hearts of the Little
Flock. R3686:2
The holy mind or Spirit of God. E264; R5378:6
Under a bushel -- Showing lack of courage, appreciation, earnestness.
R4967:5
On a candlestick -- Be exposed, so as to do good. R5378:5
Luke 11:34
Thine eye is single -- The eye represents intelligence. As long as we

have the true enlightenment, or intelligence, the whole body is blessed
thereby. R5378:6
But when thine eye -- The eye, the light, here represents the
enlightenment of the holy Spirit, which has the greatest power to bless
us; and if lost, means an even greater darkness than was experienced
before coming to a knowledge of the Lord. R5378:6
Luke 11:35
Be not darkness -- Does not become darkness, become extinguished. E264,

294 11:36
Light -- The enlightenment of the holy Spirit. R5378:6; E264
The bright shining -- Greek, astrape. Here correctly translated;
mistranslated "lightning" in Matt. 24:27. B156
Luke 11:37
A certain Pharisee -- Amongst the various sects of the Jews of our

Lord's day we have every reason to believe that the Pharisees constituted
the best--the one most loyal to God and his law. Their name signifies
"holiness people." R5389:2
Went in and sat down -- Purposely ignoring the Pharisees' usual
formalism of washings. R5389:2
Luke 11:38
He marvelled -- The host thought of Jesus as a holy man, not a publican

or a sinner. R5389:2
Not first washed -- Not that Jesus was careless; rather, the washing of
hands by the Pharisees was a ceremony which Jesus especially wished to
ignore in order that he might have the opportunity of criticizing that
spirit which the ceremony well illustrated. R5389:2
This gave Jesus the opportunity for a discourse on the subject. R5389:2
Luke 11:39
Ye Pharisees -- Not deigning to mention the other sects, which had

entirely departed from God. R5389:2
With all their boasted holiness, they came far short of what would be
acceptable to God. R5389:2
Your inward part -- In God's sight the heart is the important matter;
outward cleansing is secondary. R5389:3
Those who do come into heart harmony with the Lord are cleansed by
obedience to his message and its spirit, and are thereby made clean every
whit--outwardly, as well as inwardly. R5389:3
Full of ravening and wickedness -- Given to extortion--spiritual
wickedness. R5389:3
Luke 11:42
Woe unto you -- Not condemning them to eternal torment; the woe to the
Pharisee was that they were about to lose the great blessing which God had
promised to the Jewish nation; namely, that of chief association in
Messiah's Kingdom. (Gen. 12:3) R5390:1
The expression, "Woe unto you," is to be regarded sympathetically,
pityingly. R5390:1
It is not for us to judge all or any of the sects of Christendom and apply
the Master's words to them. Unlike Jesus, we have not the power to read
men's hearts, nor the authority to pronounce them hypocrites. R5389:5
Ye tithe -- Giving one-tenth of their income every year. R5389:3
Mint and rue -- Small seeds of which they grew but a trifling quantity.
R5389:5
Love of God -- Be benevolent rather than covetous and self-seeking,
otherwise God could not be well pleased with them. R5389:5,3
Ought ye to have done -- Jesus did not object to their giving 1/10 of
everything, but that they should not leave the more important things
undone. R5389:5
Luke 11:43
The uppermost seats -- Their covetousness took the form of pride, as

well as dishonesty. R5389:5
Does not mean he was condemning them to eternal torment. R5390:1
Luke 11:44
Hypocrites -- Who proclaim the way of the Lord to others, yet ignore
that way in their own dealings. NS853:4
Addressed to a class, not an individual. R5980:1
We do not have the authority to pronounce anyone a hypocrite. R5389:6,
5980:1
Luke 11:45
One of the lawyers -- Some of the Pharisees, especially educated,

talented and well-versed in the teachings of the Law and the prophets,
were style doctors--Doctors of the Law, the equivalent of what today are
termed Doctors of Divinity. R5389:6
Luke 11:46
Ye lade men --They gave such hard interpretations of God's Law as were
discouraging to the common people--setting before the publicans and sinners
standards of excellence and perfection which they themselves would not think
of every trying to live up to. R5389:6
Ye yourselves touch not -- Let us take heed that we practice what we
preach. NS853:4
Luke 11:47
Woe unto you -- Our Lord seems to have arraigned the clergy as a class,
and to have held the modern representatives responsible, because they gave
evidence of having the same spirit that their predecessors had, even
though they condemned some of their practices. NS504:4
This does not apply to every individual of the Jewish clergy, the doctors
of the law, but rather he spoke of them as a class, ignoring the few
exceptions. NS504:5
Very soon a period of disintegration set in, which affected everything and
every prospect of the wealthy and professedly religious class of the Jews,
especially the Doctors of the Law. This led up to anarchy and ultimately
the destruction of their national polity in AD 70. NS503:6
Luke 11:48
Ye allow the deeds -- How apt we all are to think of our own day as
being different from other periods. So today many extol the Lord and the
Apostles, and denounce their persecutors, while they similarly persecute.
SM218:T
Luke 11:49
Them shall they slay -- Their fathers killed the prophets, while they
killed the Lord himself and persecuted his followers. NS504:5
Luke 11:50
Blood of all the prophets -- Similarly, respecting the end of this age,
the Scriptures imply that there is a great back-account of retribution
owing to the rest of the world which will be fully squared up in the awful
trouble with which this age will end. R4273:6; OV346:1
The sins of the persecutors must be liquidated, even though the
persecutors themselves will all eventually be forgiven. OV346:1
May be required -- As expiation for the taking of the life of Jesus was
required of the Jewish nation, so at the end of the Gospel age, the
sacrificed life of the Church will be in a measure required of nominal
Declaring the great time of trouble which came upon that nation at the
time of Jesus' crucifixion, and reached its completion in AD 70 in the
total destruction of their city and polity. R5390:4
Civil strife and hostile invaders accomplished the fearful recompense. D48
The Scriptures indicate that a great time of trouble similar to that which
came upon the Jewish nation will now come upon all Christendom. The
experiences of Israel in the year 70 will be paralleled in the experiences
of the year 1915. R5256:5; D49
The trouble day with which the Jewish age ended is paralleled exactly in
time and in character by the period of trouble which will consummate this
age. NS504:2
It is the "recompense of the controversy of Zion" (Isa. 34:8)--the saints,
the true Church. OV345:6
The great tribulation is a legitimate effect from preceding causes. D49
The law of cause and effect is nowhere more prominently marked than on the
pages of history. D51
The same principle applies to the rich--a realization of the wrongs done
by the rich toward the poor in past times should, under the light of this
day, lead the same class to greater sympathy for their less fortunate
fellows. R1423:6
While mercy comes to all mankind through the sacrificial death of the
Savior, this does not alter the fact that Justice calls for punishments
for crimes more or less wilful and therefore not included in the Savior's
atonement. OV345:2
Of this generation -- Greek, genea; not used with the significance of
race, but in reference to people living contemporaneously. D603
The last generation of the Jewish age. OV345:5
It may seem strange that a subsequent generation of humanity should suffer
the penalty of the accumulated crimes of several preceding generations. D47
Those people had far more responsibility than all who preceded them. They
had a great light amongst them, shining from Jesus and the early saints.
OV345:5
The Great Company will suffer for the sins of others--the accumulated sins
of this age against light and knowledge. R4274:1
As a legitimate effect from preceding causes. D47
Because the chief light of each Age comes at its close, bringing
responsibility and more severe judgment. R5462:6; OV345:5
A squaring up of sins against divine justice, leaving the world without
anything against them on the books of justice. R4856:2
There are certain things charged up against Christendom for their evil
deeds, including all the persecutions of this Gospel age. R5256:5
Luke 11:51
Of Abel -- Who typified Isaac, Jacob, Spiritual Israel and the wheat
class. R2778:3,4
Shall be required -- The satisfaction for wilful sins is shown in the
scapegoat, the Great Company. These will pass through an experience
similar to that which our Lord foretold would come upon the Jewish nation,
squaring up for sins against divine justice. This will leave the world at
the opening of the Millennium without anything against them on the books
of justice. R4856:2
Luke 11:52
Lawyers -- This word corresponds in meaning to the present title of

D.D.--Doctors of the Law they were then called, but now Doctors of
Divinity. R1001:6; Q798:2
Have taken away -- Through their traditions and speculations. Q798:2
Whoever misrepresents the divine character and the divine plan is taking
away the "key of knowledge" of God. NS503:5
The ecclesiastical powers of today, professedly sitting in the seat of
Christ, have been to a greater or less extent hiding "the key of
knowledge," to a greater or less extent imposing on the superstitions of
the people. R5750:1
By substituting your own traditions and doctrines for those of God's Word
and thus misrepresenting God. Q798:2
Putting "darkness for light, and light for darkness." (Isa. 5:20) R2693:4
Those who relied on the Pharisees for information were hindered from
joint-heirship with Christ. R5390:4
Evidently the "key of knowledge" is as thoroughly lost to the Doctors of
Divinity of our day as it was to the Doctors of the Law at the first
advent. R2485:4
It was lost during the "dark ages." Luther and some of his coadjutors did
valiantly in striving to recover the key, and at least got hold of the
handle. But, alas! little progress has since been made. NS504:5
"My people perish for lack of knowledge." (Hos. 4:6) NS505:5
The key of knowledge -- The Bible, the Standard of Truth. Q798:2
Today the learned of the colleges and the principal pulpits are telling
the people that the Bible is not the divine message which Jesus and the
Apostles declared it to be. R5087:2
"The reverence of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge." (Prov. 1:7)
NS503:5
Knowledge of God and reverence for him. R1532:2
The holding of the ransom is the key to every truth; the "hub" from which
all other truths must radiate. R1452:5
Ye entered not -- We would probably find a larger proportion of honest
Bible students out of the pulpits of the nominal churches than in them.
R1001:6
The elder son "would not go in" (Luke 15:28) to greet the returned
prodigal. "The publicans and sinners shall go into the Kingdom before
you." (Matt. 21:31) R1460:2,4
Yourselves -- To this day they are jealous, and will not go in. R1460:4
Ye hindered -- In avoiding the knowledge, they were hindering others who
were in quest of it. NS505:1
By their false teachings and misrepresentations, putting darkness for
light, and light for darkness. R2693:4
Their hypocrisy was not only hindering themselves from preparation to be
joint-heirs with Messiah in his Kingdom, but was also hindering the masses
of the people, who relied upon them for information. R5390:4
The common people, relying largely upon the holy professions and teachings
of these leaders, were the more thoroughly deluded and the more thoroughly
alienated from God by reason of their professions of sanctity. NS503:6
Luke 12
Luke 12:1
The leaven -- Symbol of an evil influence; the hypocrisies of the

Pharisees were impurities, contaminating in their influence. R5390:2
Of the Pharisees -- The false doctrines and corrupt influences
proceeding from the scribes and Pharisees. R2635:1, 1670:6
The learned people of that time. R5390:2
Luke 12:2
Is nothing covered -- This prophecy is as true in the judgment of

Be revealed -- Greek, apokalupto, uncovered, unveiled. R2979:3,2
A testimony dreaded but disbelieved by unjust stewards of wealth and
power. C20
When the power of the resurrection shall be exercised, all the hidden
things of darkness shall be abolished. R5390:2
A feature of retribution upon the world during its Millennial trial will
be the publicity which will then be given to the deeds of the past. This
will come about in a natural way when all that are in their graves shall
come forth: the murderer and his victim, the debtor and his creditor, the
thief and his dupe, the defamer and the defamed. R1655:1
This judgment, in the case of the Lord's consecrated people, culminates
with the present life; in the case of the world, it will culminate in the
age to come. R2058:5*
"The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the
good." (Prov. 15:3) R1653:3
Neither hid -- Not only the hidden things of creeds and systems of
iniquity, but also the hidden things of individual character. R1362:4
Be known -- The secrets of mankind will be exposed, no doubt
constituting the basis of the shame and contempt which will be the
punishment of many. (Dan. 12:2) R5390:2
All hypocrisies, sins and secrets will be exposed. R5390:2
Our words and works should be such as need not to be covered. R5390:2
Luke 12:3
Heard in the light -- Today we see that many real exhibitions of vice,
immorality and wrong-doing are brought to light. Q579:4
Luke 12:4
My friends -- Those who believe in a future existence secured through

Jesus, the life-giver. R581:1
Be not afraid -- Honesty of life would bring persecution from the
hypocrites, but they should not fear even though the persecution resulted
in their death. The present life is but ephemeral, at best. R5390:3
Kill the body -- The killing of the body represents the loss of the
present measure of life. R581:1
Revived souls will have new bodies (spiritual or natural), and these none
will have liberty to kill. R2602:4
No more that they can do -- Nothing they can do will affect our future
being. R2602:4; OV169:3
Luke 12:5
Fear him -- Be fearful of anything that would separate from God and his
gracious provision of a future life. R5390:3
The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom, and a reverential fear is
always proper. R5390:3
To lose fear of God, in the sense of losing fear of his displeasure, would
be a most serious loss, as it would probably cost us our eternal life.
R2289:6
After he hath killed -- And brought again from death. R527:5*
Cast into hell -- God alone has power to destroy utterly--soul and body.
Fear him who is able to destroy in Gehenna, the second death, both the
present dying existence and all hope of future existence. R2602:4, 581:1;
OV169:3
Gehenna in the Greek; primarily a valley outside Jerusalem where offal was
cast for utter destruction, a type of the second death. R5390:3, 2601:2
This is the "fiery indignation which shall devour the adversaries" (eat up
opposition). (Heb. 10:27) R527:5*
Jesus used it as a type of the second death, the portion of the willfully,
intelligently and deliberately sinful. R5390:3
No living thing was ever to be cast into Gehenna; the Jews were not
allowed to torture any creature. R2601:2
The life that is worth considering is the everlasting one which God has
provided for all the willing and obedient. R5390:3
Luke 12:7
The very hairs -- Everything he permits to come to his people he assures

them will work out for some blessing. R5390:5
Are all numbered -- You may not suffer injury without his knowledge or
consent. HG294:6
Fear not therefore -- These are to realize their heavenly Father's care
for them and his wisdom. R5390:5
Many sparrows -- Our smallest interest is not overlooked. R1906:4
As he forgets not the sparrows, so he will not forget us. R5390:5
Luke 12:8
Confess me -- Not merely by baptism, but in the life, conduct and words
of his followers. They are to have his spirit. R5390:5
Whoever confesses Jesus, confesses the Father who sent him. R5390:5
Before the angels -- Ultimately be acknowledged in the resurrection as
members of the Bride of Christ. R5390:5 12:9
Denieth me -- Whoever makes a profession of being a disciple and then
ignores the Master's teachings, misrepresents, slanders and denies him,
and will not share in the bride. R5390:5
Denied before the angels -- Not acknowledged as disciples in glory.
R5390:5
Luke 12:10
Against the Holy Ghost -- When some declared that his good works of the
holy Spirit were accomplished through the power of Satan, Beelzebub, they
were committing inexcusable sins that would not be passed over. R5390:6
The responsibility of each individual is proportionate to his
enlightenment. The mentally and morally blind have comparatively little
responsibility. It is the spirit-begotten disciples of Jesus that are in
danger of grieving the holy Spirit. R5390:6
Maliciously attributing to an evil source what cannot be denied as a good
work, free from sin, selfishness and ambition. E271
The world in general knows not God, and hence could not sin against the
holy Spirit. R5391:1
Not be forgiven -- If the punishment would bring reformation, well and
good; but if not, it would eventuate in utter destruction, the second
death. R5390:6
Luke 12:11
Take ye no thought -- They need not anxiously premeditate what their

answers would be, but commit all to the Lord, expecting divine assistance.
R5391:4
Nothing here implies that the ministers of Christ should attempt to
represent the Lord in the pulpit or class meetings without studying their
subject. There is a difference between standing before a congregation of
God's people as a mouthpiece of his Word and being called before
magistrates. R5391:5
Luke 12:12
Teach you -- They would have wisdom superior to that which was naturally
theirs. R5391:4
Luke 12:13
One of the company -- The case would have been different had the two
brothers come together, and, indicating that they wished to do right,
requested his judgment of what would have been the right course. R2685:2
Seeing in the teachings of Christ only that which he thought might be used
to further his own selfish interests. R2685:1
Speak to my brother -- Tell him that he ought to deal generously, and
perhaps threaten him if he failed to do so. R2685:1
That he divide -- Perhaps finding that, through some technicality, he
could not obtain what he considered to be his just rights under Jewish
Law. R2685:1
Many there are who see just this much and no more in the teachings of
Christ--a channel through which to serve their own interests, a means of
securing justice to themselves. R2685:1
He had undoubtedly appealed to his brother and to Jewish authorities for
the relief which he thought he ought to have. Similarly it is proper for a
Christian to appeal to the person and the laws of the land; but if he
fails, he should content himself. R2695:3
Coveting what his father had really intended should go to his brother, and
hence asking something outside of his legal rights. Jesus' refusal to
intervene implies that the estate properly belonged to the brother.
R5396:1, 2685:6
Luke 12:14
Who made me a judge -- Jesus is not the Judge or divider of earthly

things now. That will be the work of the Millennium. R2130:5*
Too many are disposed to be busybodies in other men's matters, and
overlook the fact that their commission of the Lord is to preach the
Gospel. R5396:1
As our Lord was not willing to impose himself as a judge or an arbitrator
in his day, so his followers now should not seek to interfere in secular
affairs. R2685:2
Jesus had another work to do, so have his followers: the preparation for
the glorious Messianic Kingdom. R5396:1
A divider over you -- Or, an arbiter. R2685:1
Society has provided certain rules, laws and regulations. Whatever these
laws will not accord us we should drop. R5396:1
Luke 12:15
Beware of covetousness -- Implying that the estate properly belonged to

the brother, and that the one addressing Jesus desired more than his legal
rights. R5396:1, 2685:6
If he were asking for what was only reasonably his due, our Lord's words
would show that whether or not he got all of his rights in the present
life would be a comparatively unimportant matter. R2685:6
As a rule, quarrels in the family and in the church arise from selfishness
and covetousness. R3939:6
To covent the whole trade and to attempt sharp practices in business,
selling commodities at below cost, interfering with another's bank credit,
slandering another would be covetousness in action. R4741:6
The tendency of our time, with its increase of knowledge and independence,
is to look only at the side of questions closest to self-interest, and to
fail to appreciate the opposite side. D273
Illustrated in the covetous choice of Lot whose eyes, opened in Egypt to
the luxuries of life, when he made a choice for a home separate from
Abraham, chose that which most nearly paralleled the richness of Egypt.
R3939:3
One of the most crying evils of our day. R4742:4
We should be content with such things as we have. R5396:1
Our Lord's words would also be a lesson to the older brother, if he were
seeking to defraud or was covetously ungenerous. R2685:6
Consisteth not -- The basis of happiness is measured by the soul's
relationship to God and hope in him. R5396:1
In the abundance -- Undoubtedly poverty is a greater aid to discipleship
than is wealth. The cost of discipleship is the surrender of every earthly
ambition to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. The rich are disadvantaged
because theirs would be the greater sacrifice, and because wealth
preserves them from many trials. R5004:2
A man may be miserable while rolling in wealth, or be happy in comparative
poverty. R5396:1
Which he possesseth -- Their time and attention are all engrossed and
their interest absorbed in the accumulation and care of the earthly
treasures, which shut out all nobler aspirations toward spiritual things.
R2129:3*
Unimportant as compared to having experiences favorable to eternal life.
R2685:6
All earthly riches not consecrated to God are weights and hindrances to
the Christian; and if consecrated to sacrifice and yet never subjected to
the flames of the altar, they are of no avail except as a broken vow, to
rise up against us in judgment. R2129:3*
Luke 12:16
A parable -- Illustrating the comparative foolishness of all earthly

ambitions. R5396:3
A certain rich man -- It is not stated that he had obtained his wealth
by unlawful means. He is not charged with having defrauded his brother or
his neighbor. R2685:6
Luke 12:18
This will I do -- I will hold and greedily enjoy my selfish hoardings.

R2686:2
The right attitude of mind would have answered: "These bounties of divine
providence are a trust, and I am a trustee. My position will permit me to
be a source of great blessing to others not so bountifully supplied."
R2685:6
Build greater -- Instead of using his riches in doing good, he was
miserly, taking pleasure in accumulations. R5396:4, 2686:2
Luke 12:19
Soul -- Being, self. R276:3, 205:2

Much goods laid up -- The majority of covetous people never so succeed.
Their selfishness is not less reprehensible from the fact that it fails of
success. R2686:4
"There is that scattereth and yet increaseth, and there is that
withholdeth more than is meet, and it tendeth to poverty." (Prov. 11:24)
The hoarding of earthly wealth tends to poverty of heart. R2686:1
Luke 12:20
But God said -- Through the prophets. D273

Thou fool -- He should have enjoyed himself in spending it wisely for
the good of others and to the glory of God. R5396:4
This night thy soul -- During the dark night of the time of trouble. D273
Leaving you to enter the next life a pauper as respects material, mental
and moral wealth, and handicapped by a load of selfishness. R2686:2
Shall be required -- The hoarded treasures of the wealthy "shall not be
able to deliver them." (Ezek. 7:19) D273, 274
He lost his life; he died in poverty when he might have used his riches
sacrificially, laying up treasures in heaven. R5396:4
Luke 12:21
Treasure for himself -- Instead, he should have enjoyed himself by

spending it wisely for the good of others and to the glory of God. R5396:4
Is not rich -- His life had been a failure; he would enter the next life
a pauper, as respects mental and moral development in good qualities.
R2686:2
Luke 12:22
Take no thought -- Be not anxious. R2686:4

We must be freed from distress of mind with reference to earthly things.
R873:3
Not an encouragement to carelessness or sloth, but rather not to be
anxious in the sense of being fretted and worried about food or clothing.
R873:2
For your life -- Greek, psuche--soul, being. E336
What ye shall eat -- Many who know nothing of actual want of life's
necessities, are much exercised by the loss of luxuries when adversity
comes. R873:6
Luke 12:23
More than meat -- Realize that everything of the present life is quite
unworthy to be compared with the future and eternal interests. R2686:5
If, in divine providence, you receive poverty as your unavoidable portion,
accept it as best for you. R2686:5
Luke 12:24
Consider -- Reflect, think, study, ponder. R3312:3

The heart that thus considers makes progress, grows in grace, in
knowledge, in love. The heart that fails to consider the little things
fails to be able to appreciate the larger things. R3313:3
How much more -- Teaching us that his power and wisdom could similarly,
if necessary, provide for the necessities of his people, miraculously or
otherwise. R3313:2
Luke 12:27
Consider the lilies -- God had not forgotten or failed in his care of
even these insignificant things. R2129:6*
Luke 12:28
How much more -- He will not withhold any really good thing from us.
(Psa. 84:11) R2129:6*
Will he clothe you -- It would be a mistake to suppose, in view of the
Lord's promised care over all our interests, that he would, in every case,
make things work together for our temporal advantage. R2130:3*
Luke 12:30
Need of these things -- These earthly things which you do not need to
pray for. F679
And in his service he will not let you starve. B119
Luke 12:31
Seek ye the kingdom -- Give all the surplus of our time and energy, over
and above that spent in providing things needful, in the accumulating of
the heavenly riches. R874:4
Daily, hourly. The heart will be with the treasure. It will be the theme
of their thoughts by day and of their meditations by night. R5397:1
All these things -- Earthly occupations will still be necessary to
provide things needful and honest, but no earthly prize will have any
value in comparison to the heavenly prize. R5397:1
Luke 12:32
Fear not -- Fear not to carry out your consecration to the full, keeping
your little all upon the altar of sacrifice and subject to the consuming
fire. R2130:6*
Neither the world's ignorance and unbelief nor the lukewarm indifference
and prejudice of the great majority of professed Christians shall prove
stumbling blocks to God's elect. Such cannot stumble; nor is it possible
that they should be deceived. B189
Little flock -- The faithful Gospel Church. R1908:6
In contrast with a Great Company before the throne. R828:4, 778:3*,
772:1*; NS236:5
Christians will not be counted by the hundreds of millions. R5407:1;
NS388:6
It is difficult for many of the Lord's true followers to learn that they
must not expect everybody to enlist with them; that they must be content
to let the world enlist in its own warfare and fight for its own projects.
NS61:6
The great majority, being tares and not real wheat, will be rejected as
unworthy of the chief favor to which they were called, and will not be
counted among the Lord's jewels. B205
Not all who have their names upon earthly church rolls, but only those
"whose names are written in heaven," and whose names will not be blotted
out because of unfaithfulness. HG315:6
The gospel has not converted nations. It was not designed to do so. A72;
HG271:4, 540:2; NS190:2, 513:1
Not many, as compared with the world, or even as compared with those that
take the first step of faith unto justification. R4133:6, 4148:1, 3707:6;
SM680:1; NS41:4, 364:6
Amongst those who hear, and are thus called, only a few will be chosen.
NS474:4
Saintly Christians are a rarity today, as they have always been. OV387:2;
SM383:1
Scarce, like jewels. HG752:1; NS150:2
So small is the number of these and so insignificant their influence that
they are nor recorded among any of the great denominations of the world,
but are counted as offscourings of all denominations--sometimes pitied,
sometimes scorned. SM383:2; NS49:3
So we need not be on the lookout for the largest organization as the true
church of Christ. R1102:6
"Not many wise, not many mighty, not many noble, hath God chosen." (1 Cor.
1:26) NS128:3, 318:5, 388:6
Chiefly of the poor of this world. NS66:1, 647:1
The number in the first resurrection is extremely limited. HG230:6, 615:4
It is therefore evidently not the saints who are to constitute the Lord's
great army. D543
It should be observed that the number of priests (five), in comparison
with the hosts of Israel, who represented the whole world, was very small.
R1836:3; T118
When we remember that two of the five priests were destroyed by the Lord,
we find the proportion of 3 priests to 8,580 Levites to be only 1 to
2,800. T119
From both Jews and Gentiles, responsive to the Lord's message of mercy,
and willing, yea, anxious, to walk in the footsteps of Jesus. HG685:4
The conditions of the present trial of all accepted as probationary
members of the heavenly church are severe and exacting. The selection is
consequently much smaller than Christian people generally suppose. R1570:6
Only a few apply their hearts unto instruction and wholly follow divine
direction; consequently only a few know the blessedness of the realization
of the Lord's tender care. R2130:1*
Composed of all the saintly followers of Jesus, who walk in his steps in
the narrow way during the Gospel age. R6013:3
The Lord is not a shepherd of wayward goats (however, he may permit the
common blessings of sun and rain to come to all). R1396:2
Selected from the world through the preaching of the truth. R3004:6
Only a little flock in the present time; but, in due time, he will draw
all men (John 12:32), and it is for this purpose that the little flock
shall be exalted and associated with himself. R1055:4
Represented by pyramid n on the Chart of the Ages. A235; R275:1
The holy company, a faithful remnant, selected here and there during the
Gospel Age. A72; R5707:1, 2773:5, 2407:5, 1983:4
Precious jewels of the Lord's own choosing. B190; R5038:2, 2972:2
The Bride of Christ, his joint-heir in the glorious Millennial Kingdom.
SM313:T; R5769:1, 5038:3, 4148:1, 3004:6, 2972:4, 2442:1
"Not many wise..., not many mighty, not many noble are called." (1 Cor.
1:26) OV297:T; R2693:2, 1102:6
There will be as many Jews as of any other nationality in that spiritual
company. CR156:3
"Partakers of the divine nature." (2 Pet. 1:4) R270:3, 5677:4, 4390:1,
1360:4, 828:4
The first-fruits. (James 1:18) R5870:2, 4702:4, 2490:2
"That hath part in the first resurrection." (Rev. 20:6) R331:4, 4914:6
Of "the high calling." (Phil. 3:14) R4714:5, 2490:1
The "overcomers." (Rev. 3:21) R1360:4, 5575:2, 2123:2, 828:4, 275:1
Who come forth to "glory and honor and immortality." (Rom. 2:7) R5407:1
A Royal Priesthood. (1 Pet. 2:9) R4999:1, 4591:1, 4537:4, 4397:6, 3115:6;
T119
"An holy nation." (1 Pet. 2:9) R2364:2; OV251:2
"Kings and priests." (Rev. 1:6, 5:10) R4298:3, 5575:1
The "called and chosen and faithful." (Rev. 17:14) R4397:6
The "Church of the first-born." (Heb. 12:23) R270:3, 5870:2, 5066:5, 4999:1
"The very elect." (Matt. 24:24) R2490:1, 5407:1, 2966:2
The "wise virgins." (Matt. 25:1-12) R2978:6
The Temple class. R828:4
The Kingdom class. R1855:3
A saintly company. R5066:5, 4999:1
Copies of God's dear Son. R4401:1, 4928:6, 2972:1
Justified, sanctified new creatures. R5032:2
The true sheep of the Good Shepherd. R2441:6
The true virgin Church of Christ. SM408:2; R1718:4
Those with the eyes and ears of faith. R3701:3
Those who faithfully perform their consecration vow. SM636:2
Members of the Messianic body, of which Christ is the Head. R4848:4,
4298:3, 4914:6, 828:5, 779:6
To be associated with Jesus in destroying evil and blessing all the
families of the earth. R188:5, 4793:3, 1571:1, 1079:2
Will stand out as bright stars, and shine as the sun over a restored
earth. R779:6
The spiritual seed of Abraham, spiritual Israel. R4390:1; CR156:3; OV251:2
144,000 (Rev. 14:1), a small number compared with the millions of
Christendom. CR156:3
The saints, therefore, cannot be the "Lord's Great Army" (Joel 2:11) that
shall overthrow the kingdoms of this world. D543
Not the clergy of the Catholic Church, as claimed. OV124:4
Typified by Noah. R188:4
Is now on trial. R779:6
Father's good pleasure -- "The Father himself loveth you" (John 16:27);
"He shall cover thee with his feathers and under his wings shalt thou
trust." (Psa. 91:4) R3331:2
To give you -- But not to keep. Earthly restitution blessings are theirs
to sacrifice only. OV251:3
Teaching us to wait for it. CR69:6; OV237:6; SM408:2
When the Father shall give these the kingdom, as joint-heirs with their
Redeemer, everything will be changed. The prince of darkness will be
bound, the prince of light will shine forth. R5038:3
Who have made a consecration to God of obedience and righteousness, and
later a special consecration to sacrifice earthly interests for the
heavenly. "Ye were called in one hope of your calling." (Eph. 4:4) F125
The kingdom -- The spiritual, unseen Kingdom of Messiah, as joint-heirs.
SM205:2; R5038:3
Only the Royal Family will get the Kingdom. All others will be subjects of
the Kingdom. SM680:1
The dominion of earth. R2520:6
The Kingdom and life eternal which the Lord has to give away are those of
Adam, which were lost through his disobedience and repurchased by our Lord
at Calvary. OV251:3
These are to be the Royal Priesthood, to whom (under Christ, the King of
kings and Priest of priests) shall be committed the full control of earth
during the "times of restitution of all things." (Acts 3:21) R2490:2
Representatives of the stone kingdom of Dan. 2. CR42:4
The affairs of earth will be turned over to the Little Flock. R2983:5
Theirs is the high calling to joint-heirship in his Kingdom, which is soon
to bless the world. R4714:5
The Kingdom of God per se consists only of our Lord Jesus and the
overcomers, who constitute the reigning class. R5575:2
As our Lord suffered and then entered into his glory, so his elect Church
must suffer, and then enter into the glory of her Lord--become sharers of
his Kingdom. NS579:3
In an age to follow this. A72
This Kingdom cannot come until the Church has been completed. R1718:4
They must be first made spiritual because "flesh and blood cannot inherit
the Kingdom of God." (1 Cor. 15:50) R1855:3
Not until this Kingdom will they reach a plane of full equality; and even
then there will be differences: "as star differeth from star in glory."
(1Cor. 15:41) NS67:1
"I appoint unto you a kingdom as my Father hath appointed unto me." (Luke
22:29) A274
The Kingdom heirship was taken from Israel, the Jews, and transferred to
the nation bringing forth the proper fruits. (Matt. 21:43) R2125:5
With the establishment of that autocratic Kingdom under the direct
supervision of the Lord and his glorified Church, will come the greatest
reformation the world has ever known. SM786:T
Right and truth must and shall prevail when our Kingdom is established,
however feeble now may be the voices lifted in our defense. R3068:4
Cannot come and the blessings begin until the Church has been completed.
R1718:4; CR244:5
The Lord purposely left his followers without definite information
respecting the time for the establishment of his Kingdom. R5399:2
The Kingdom for which the world waits. OV237:6
When the prince of darkness will be bound, and the Prince of Light shine
forth. R5038:3, 4148:1
"That ye may eat and drink at my table in my Kingdom, and sit on thrones."
(Luke 22:30) A274
The Messianic Kingdom, for the work of blessing, enlightening and
uplifting all the poor world of mankind. R4148:1, 5345:6, 5399:2
As joint-heirs with their Redeemer. R5038:3; OV257:3
To constitute the reigning class. R5575:2
As "kings and priests." (Rev. 5:10) R2074:4
Though through much tribulation ye shall enter it. (Acts 14:22) R1801:6
Luke 12:33
Sell that ye have -- The inference is that what we possess naturally is

not of lasting value, while that which we may obtain instead is of
priceless value and everlasting. R1656:2
Give alms -- Dispose of your natural abilities and talents, wisely of
course, for the benefit of yourself, your family, and all who have need of
such service as you can render. R1656:2
We should be ready to share our last loaf or last dollar with any more
needy than we. R873:6
Wisely, however, as becometh God's steward. F576
Treasure in the heavens -- "The Lord is the portion of your inheritance;
yea, you have a goodly heritage." (Psa. 16:5,6) R2130:6*
Let your heart be there. R2130:5*, 5397:1
That faileth not -- No earthly prize will have any value in comparison
to the heavenly prize. R5397:4
Moth corrupteth -- We might learn to trust in uncertain riches, if moth
and rust had never corrupted nor thieves stolen the little or much of our
earthly possessions. R2130:2*
Luke 12:34
Treasure -- That heavenly Kingdom beyond all comparison of value; the

theme of one's thoughts by day and by night. R5396:6, 5397:1
Luke 12:35
Be girded about -- The loins of their mind girt up and active in

thought. R2692:5
Girt with truth; that is, being nerved up, made strong by the truth and
ready for any service. R87:2
Ready for service all the time, actively engaged in promoting the
interests of the kingdom. Ancient, loose garments had a girdle at the
waist to be drawn into place for the ordinary services of life, and loosed
when rest was sought. R3354:2, 2692:3
Your lights burning -- The lamp of the divine Word, so necessary to
their enlightenment, should be with them, and well supplied with the oil
of the holy Spirit; and well trimmed, in the sense of rightly dividing the
word of truth. R2692:5
Lamps were necessary in the night and should not be permitted to grow dim,
but be trimmed as necessity required. R2692:3
The great light, the glorious sunrise of the Millennial morning, has not
yet taken place; the Lord's people are still in the world as little
lights, shining in the midst of general darkness. R3354:3
Luke 12:36
Men that wait -- Continually on the alert. R5399:3

For their lord -- A wealthy householder, representing our Lord Jesus at
his second advent. R2692:3,4
Return -- Greek, analusai, sometimes rendered "depart," but properly
"return" here. F671
From the wedding -- Diaglott, nuptial feasts. R87:1
Not that he will come to us, or to the Great Company, from the nuptial
feast. Q635:3
Our Bridegroom does not come to us after the marriage, but when he comes
we are to be as those servants were under those circumstances. R87:3
Amongst the Jews there would be no occasion on which the servants would be
expected to be more alert than when their master would come to his home
bringing with him his bride. R3354:3; Q635:3, 636:2
Not that he would bring his Bride with him. Rather, he comes that he may
receive his Bride. Indeed, the faithful followers are to be made the
Bride. R5399:3, 3354:5
And knocketh -- Implied that, at our Lord's coming, he will have arrived
before any of his faithful servants will be aware of the fact. R3355:5
Knocking gently with the prophecies to arouse the virgins, but not to
arouse the world. R2978:4
The prophetic arguments have rapped loudly enough for some to hear who
were awake and ready. R87:3; Q636:T; NS199:6
The knock will be inaudible to human ears and heard only by the ears of
understanding with the hearing of faith; it will not be a denominational
knock or call; and it must be heard and responded to individually. R2978:4
The knock corresponds to an announcement, through some special servant or
servants, either orally or by the printed page, setting forth the
evidences of the Master's presence. R3354:6
This knock, or proclamation of the Lord's presence, as indicated by the
Old Testament prophecies, has been given since 1875 and is still being
given. R3355:2
An individual work, as indicated by Rev. 3:20: "Behold I stand at the door
and knock: if any man [individual] hear my voice [knock] and open the
door, I will come in to him and sup with him, and he with me." R3355:2
Faithfulness and watchfulness necessary to quickly and readily discern the
presence of the Master. R1946:5, 2693:5
Watchfulness for the great event marks those worthy to be called true
servants or brethren. R2693:5
Some of the consecrated, overcharged with the cares of this life, will be
slow to hear this knock. R5400:5, 4525:2
Those awake have heard, have discerned his presence. R4525:2
As at the first advent he was present some time before his presence was
recognized, so at his second advent. R1796:6
They may open -- Those who hear are not compelled to respond. However,
only those who do respond and open by faith to the Lord are to have the
great blessing of spiritual nourishment. R2978:4
By faith to open their hearts and minds to acknowledge promptly the
Master's presence. R5399:5; Q636:T
Immediately -- It was expected of such servants that they should not
only not retire to bed, but that they should not even get drowsy: they
should be thoroughly awake, quick to hear and to respond to his knock.
R2692:3
Don't wait to wake up then, but be awake to hear the first intimation that
the Master has arrived. Q636:2
Intent to note the first sound of his approach. R4525:2; Q635:3
Luke 12:37
Blessed -- Truly blessed has been our experience since we recognized his
presence and received him. R87:3
They begin to enter into the joy of their Lord now (Matt. 25:21), of being
taken into full confidence with God. R1797:1
Those servants -- Referring to all of the Lord's servants who will be
living at the time of his second coming. R5400:4
At the parousia of Jesus, his second advent, he will first of all make
himself known to his faithful followers. R5399:3
When he cometh -- Arrives. R1877:5
Having come. R149:4*, 191:4
The fact that we received a harmony of truth just at the right time,
according to our chronology, promised by our Lord when he would serve his
watching servants, is an evidence that the time features, as we understand
them, are correct. R5368:3, 4067:5
Find watching -- Some will see the fulfillment of the prophetic
declarations respecting the day of the second presence in the marvelous
unfolding of the divine plan of the ages, and will recognize it as one of
the signs of the presence. D599
Not watching the sky, as though they would see Jesus; but watching the
Bible testimonies, watching the trend of the times, watching their own
hearts, watching also the interests of the Church of God. R5400:5
Alert, watching for opportunities of usefulness in the proclamation of the
Kingdom message. R5400:5
Watching and praying go together; prayer represents faith, and watching,
works. R2692:3
Watching keeps fresh in mind the hope of the Church, the reunion with
Christ in glory, the reign with him to bless the world, and keeps the
heart in harmony with the Lord. R1796:5
He shall gird himself -- The Master of the household turns to be its
servant. R3355:1, 5368:4
The Master himself will be the servant, the revealer, the setter-forth of
these viands of truth. R5399:6
The Master--the great Servant of God and his people--"the Messenger of the
Covenant"--Christ. (Mal. 3:1) D613
Served, first of all by the Master himself, and incidentally by each
other. D612; NS43:4
While these "things new and old" (Matt. 13:52) are handed from one servant
to another and to the entire household, can any of us doubt that the
Master himself is dispensing the delicious viands which so refresh us?
R3415:5
For the Master of the house to do this would imply the bringing forth of
the very best that he possessed. R2692:4
In our writings we have presented the Lord's message as his message, and
not as our own, giving the chapter and verse for every doctrine.
Notwithstanding this, we fear that many lean upon us and upon others.
R4709:3, 1867:3
The work that Pastor Russell did was not his work alone, but it was and is
the Lord's work. R6015:2*
Sit down to meat -- They should not only know of his presence by the
testimony of the Scriptures, but they should have a special demonstration
of it by the clearness and beauty of the plan as it would shine into their
hearts under his ministrations. NS199:6
A special spiritual feast--special because on a special occasion and as a
special reward for their manifestation of interest and devotion. R3355:1
This service will be rendered at a time when the world will not know of
his presence. NS7:3
By faith we are already seated at the Master's table, and he himself,
according to promise, has come forth and is serving us. C197
Present Truth. R4211:6* Food--refreshing and strengthening truth. R515:4
Meat to eat of which the world knoweth not. R4446:6; D612
Strong meat--not especially intended for babes in Christ, but for those
more developed, "who have their senses exercised" (Heb. 5:14) to discern
and appreciate this meat now in due season. (Matt. 24:45) B196
Out of the divine Word he will bring things new and old for their
refreshment and comfort. R5399:5
Since 1874 he has opened to us the Scriptures, showing us truth concerning
his present glorious nature, the object, manner and time of his coming,
and the character of his manifestations to the household of faith and to
the world. B171
Only those who have at least some hunger and thirst after righteousness
(truth) are at all welcomed at this table. R4782:3
Only those baptized unto death have access to the true communion table of
the Lord. HG603:4
We are in the harvest time since 1875. The Lord promises that at that time
he would cause his people to sit down to a bountiful repast of spiritual
food. Studies in the Scriptures are identified with that promise. R4709:6,
4448:5; NS155:3
The table of truth. R4782:3
Treating them as his friends. R2692:4
A special knowledge respecting heavenly things. R2693:5
"Meat in due season." (Matt. 24:45) R1897:5, 2693:5, 2200:1, 1867:3
In "the banqueting house." (Cant. 2:4) D612
Such as the world knoweth not of. D612
We already have this foretaste of the good things to come. C196
A sumptuous feast of rich spiritual food, refreshing and strengthening
truth. R4525:2, 5399:3, 4710:1, 4448:5, 515:4
And serve them -- With all the bounties of the harvest season. R2036:3,
1899:2
We must not sit down and expect our Lord to serve us until after we have
proved faithful in serving him. R1953:5
With truths concerning his glorious nature, the object and manner of his
return, the time features of the plan, the harvest work and the time of
trouble. B171
The Master himself will be the servant, the revealer of truth. R5399:6,
5368:4, 4525:2 Expounding to us his parables and dark sayings; disclosing
the mystery hid from ages and generations. R5399:5, 713:2
Making known to them the secret of his presence. R1796:6
Making them a feast out of the divine Word. R5399:5
Each faithful watcher will participate in this feast. R5399:6
Luke 12:38
And if -- Not stating in which watch the Master may be expected. The
faithfulness of the servants would be tested in proportion to his delay.
Many would find it easy to keep alert during the first watch, but not so
many during the second and still fewer during the third. R3355:3, 2692:5
In the second watch -- "A thousand years are as a watch in the night."
(Psa. 90:4) R3355:2
Intimating that his followers might be looking for him sooner than he
would come. R5399:3
From ten to two o'clock. R3355:2
Third watch -- From two to six o'clock, when very few are awake.
R3355:2,3
The time is fulfilled--the prophecies marking events of the close of the
Gospel Age and the opening of the Millennial Age are accomplished. "A
thousand years...are...as a watch in the night." (Psa. 90:4) R3354:6,
3355:2
"After two days will he revive us; in the third day he will raise us up."
(Hos. 6:2) R2294:5
Luke 12:39
And this know -- Understand the reason why the time is so secreted under
symbols and parables. D611
The goodman -- The master of the house. Satan, the prince of this world,
is the master of the present order of things on earth. R5399:6
Here signifying earthly governments, the powers that be, the
representatives of the ten toes of Daniel's image and of his fourth beast.
R3355:4, 1946:5
Of the house -- The present social structure. R3355:4
Had known -- But he sleeps in ignorance of the true state of affairs,
and dreams of his own greatness and prosperity. R1946:5
The thief -- The reference here is to a thief-like coming--quiet,
unostentatious, unknown, without heralds or commotion likely to disturb.
R3355:4; B143
Jesus will be present for a time, unobserved by the world. R5399:6
Not have suffered -- Altering their course from fear in order to
perpetuate the present imperfect order and to hinder the establishment of
the better Kingdom. R1946:5
Showing quite distinctly that none except the servants are to appreciate
the knock; that the world in general will not know of the time of the
Master's return. R3354:6
Broken through -- The Greek means literally, "dug into." Many olden
houses were of dried mud and entry would be gained more quickly by digging
through the wall, rather than by forcing the door. R3355:4
The breaking up of the strong man's house--the breaking up of present
institutions, civil, religious, political, financial--is already under
way. R3355:5
Luke 12:40
Ready -- Ready for his presence, to render up at any hour their accounts
and experience the change. R5399:6
When ye think not -- The Lord purposely left his followers without
definite information respecting the time for the establishment of his
kingdom. R5399:2
It is not a matter that is left in such a form as to be speculated upon in
advance. His knock will be the first intimation of his presence. R3355:5
Not, "Watch incessantly, for you will not know when I do come." All who
are faithfully watching shall know when the event occurs, so surely as
those who do not watch shall not know. R2693:5
The parousia of the Lord is recognizable only by the wise and foolish
virgins. R4692:6
Luke 12:41
Peter said -- Peter, a leader of the apostles, was perplexed. R5400:1,

1946:5
Our Lord measurably ignored this question in his reply. R3355:6
Unto us -- The twelve. He had already discerned that the Lord had some
special favors for "the twelve" alone. R1946:6
Even to all -- All faithful brethren. R1946:5
Luke 12:42
The Lord said -- These words are not a parable, but an explanation of a
parable. R1946:4
Not answering the question directly. To have done so would imply the Lord
was not coming in the early watches of the Gospel night, and would have
been in contradiction to the very teaching of this parable--that he must
be watched for all through the Gospel night. R2693:6
Our Lord's answer indicated what would be his method in the presentation
of dispensational truth. R2303:4
Who then -- At that time--at the time of the second presence of the
Lord. R2303:4
At the time of the parable's fulfillment the Lord would appoint a servant
in the household to bring these matters to the attention of all the
servants. R3355:6, 2693:6
That faithful -- In the Greek text the emphasis here is in double
form--the faithful, the wise steward. R3356:2
Special servants, appointed to dispense meat in due season at various
times, are required to prove, test and determine whether or not the
teaching is of God. R5400:1
Wise steward -- A general steward, overseer and dispenser of the Lord's
goods. R1946:3
The stewardship mentioned is not a stewardship of talents and
opportunities, but a stewardship of spiritual food merely. R2694:1
Implying that, during the Gospel age, it would be his method to make use
of certain agents or agencies in the presentation of dispensational truth.
R2303:4
Not a composite steward, because we are not to recognize a clerical, or
authoritative class; and the word "that" ("the" in the Revised Version),
implies a particular one. R3356:1
The angel of 1 Kings 19:7, the preparer of the Dawns and Towers. R4211:6*
A place of special danger, as well as of special privileges. It may be
inferred that if the chosen one should fail, another would be chosen to be
that servant or steward. R1946:4
Every child of God is a steward--a steward of his own talents,
opportunities, privileges and abilities in the Lord's service. R2694:1
Shall make ruler -- In no sense of the word constituting him a lord, a
dictator, a master, or implying his inspiration. R3356:2
Not that "that servant" would be the originator of that meat, nor
inspired, nor infallible. D613
Given a general charge respecting the spiritual food to the Lord's family.
R5400:2, 3356:4
Not very different from the Lord's usual method of dealing with his
family; he has been pleased to use special instrumentalities at various
times. R5400:1
Over his household -- His faithful people in general. R1946:2
Not nominal Christian professors in general. R1946:3
Clearly distinguishing between the "household," the "fellow servants"
(plural), and that servant. R1946:2
If neither the household nor fellow servants were mentioned, it might be
questionable whether the expression "that servant" referred to one or to
all faithful servants. R1946:2
To give them -- While the Lord will be the real Provider and Servant,
yet the food will be dispensed through a special steward to fellow
servants and the household in general. R1946:6
Not that the special steward alone would have to do with the dispensing of
food for the household. Matthew speaks of"fellow-servants" who cooperate
in this work. (Matt. 24:45-51) R2694:1
Which he will then serve through his visible, human agencies. R1946:5
Impossible from any sectarian creed or storehouse. We might bring forth
some things old and good from each, but nothing new. A24
Meat in due season -- Things new and old for the strengthening of his
household for this present time of trial and for the perfecting of the
saints for the work of ministry, to which he has called them. R2693:6
God's Word is a great storehouse of food for hungry pilgrims. There is
milk for babes and strong meat for those more developed. It also contains
food adapted to different seasons and conditions. A24
Truth as it becomes due. A349; R4211:6*
Spiritual food, in a manner and to a degree never before enjoyed by the
saints. R5651:5, 5400:2; Q554:4
The Bible is the Lord's bountifully spread table of good things for the
household of faith. (Gal. 6:10) R4971:2
It is required of each who partakes to prove, test, and determine whether
or not the teaching is of God. R5400:1
Can we suppose the Lord would thus honor one who by his teachings or
silence supported the eternal torment theory? R2599:1
Luke 12:43
Blessed is -- Whoever will occupy that position, happy will it be for

him, if the Master, on coming, shall find him thus employed--diligent in
the service of the household. R2303:5
That servant -- During the Lord's presence, and at the time of the
gathering of the elect, our Lord, the great Servant of his people, will
make choice of one channel for dispensing the meat in due season. D613
A special servant, indicated as the Lord's agent in dispensing present
truth as food to his fellow servants and the household. R1946:2
Thousands of the readers of Pastor Russell's writings believed that he
filled this office, his modesty and humility precluding him from claiming
the title. OV447:6*
Lord when he cometh -- Greek, erchomai, arrives. B163
At the end of the Age. R5400:2
Shall find so doing -- Shall find thus employed. D613
Luke 12:44
Ruler -- The Revised Version is preferable: "set over his household to

give them meat" as a steward, not as a lord or master--rather a general
servant, a servant of all. R1946:6
Faithfulness on the part of this steward would imply larger and continued
service in dispensing the meat to the household of faith at that time.
R2693:6
All that he hath -- All the vast storehouse of Present Truth. B163;
D613; R1797:1
The whole storehouse of divine truth shall be open to such to be
ministered by them to others of the household of faith. R1797:1; B163;
D613
Should not be understood to apply to future glories and honors.
R3356:4
Luke 12:45
But and if -- But if he should prove unfaithful. R5400:2

Every servant is to remember that unfaithfulness would surely lead to his
removal, even as every manifestation of humble faithfulness on his part
will endear him to the Master. R2694:4
The Church's dangers have always arisen from those who sought to lord it
over God's heritage, and to dispense their own wisdom. R3356:4
That servant -- The greater and more important the service, the greater
the responsibility to the Master. R2303:5
One previously spoken of, who had been giving the household meat when the
Lord came. R149:5*, 1946:2
Must not act or be regarded "as being lords over God's heritage." (1 Pet.
5:3) R3356:4
Say in his heart -- Losing faith. D614
My lord delayeth -- Losing faith in the Master's presence. R2303:5
The coming in the glory of his Kingdom, his personal presence being
already recognized. R1797:4
Begin to beat -- Become arrogant and tyrannical to his fellow-servants.
R2303:5, 2694:1
Manifest an unkind spirit toward the household. R5400:2
The men-servants -- Those who are faithfully declaring that the Lord is
present. B163
To eat and drink -- Ministering to his own earthly wants rather than to
the spiritual needs of the family of God. R5400:2
Seeking to gratify present fleshly ambitions with the prestige of the
truth. R1797:4
To be drunken -- With false doctrine. D614
The drunkenness referred to is of the spirit and mind, and its effects are
described in Isa. 29:9-16. R591:4*
Be intemperate in his words and deeds. R2303:5
Intoxicated with the spirit of the world, the spirit of selfishness.
R1797:4
Luke 12:46
Will come -- Greek, heko, be here: "will have come," Rotherham. R591:4*
Cut him in sunder -- Cut him off from being his servant. D614
Be removed, separated, allowed to go into outer darkness with the world in
general, in utter ignorance of the times and seasons. The assumption is
this would mean the recognition of another to supply the household of
faith. R5400:2, 2694:1; D614
Cut him off from being that servant who is entrusted with the dispensing
of the Truth as it becomes due in this harvest time. D613, 614; A349;
R2303:5, 1797:5
Be removed, separated, cut off from further opportunities. R5400:2, 2694:1
Separated him from the household of faith entirely. R2303:5
With the unbelievers -- A severe experience with the unbelievers in the
Share with them the great time of trouble which will follow the gathering
together of the Lord's elect. R2303:5
Allowed to go into outer darkness with the world in general. R5400:2
With the hypocrites. (Matt. 24:51) R1797:5, 2303:5; B164
Luke 12:47
And that servant -- On the basis of the parable, the Lord explains a
general principle of his dealings. R5400:2
While applying, in general, to one particular servant, the same principle
would apply to each servant in turn, as he would receive either food or
stewardship. R3356:5
Which knew -- Those understanding the principles of righteousness and
wilfully violating them. SM426:2
Knowledge increases responsibility. R3550:3, 2409:2, 2385:4; SM315:1
Knowing the Master's will, knowing what is right, has to do with the
responsibility of the world. NS334:1
A moral man, restrained from outward violence by the respect for the
opinions of others or by a fear of the consequence may, because of light
enjoyed, have greater difficulties to overcome in the reformation of his
character than the grosser, but ignorant, murderer. R1655:4
Shall be beaten -- The beating referred to has reference, not to the
world, but to Jesus' disciples who will be living in the end or harvest of
this age; but the principle will apply during the next age also. R249:6
With many stripes -- Disciplinary judgments, in proportion to resistance
to light, and failure to use it. R2385:4
These stripes are corrective and not vindictive nor eternal. It is not the
second death either; for stripes are not used to kill or destroy, but to
correct. R779:6*, 570:2, 527:5*
Deliberate transgressions cannot be forgiven, but must be expiated. If
committed with considerable, but not full light, the expiating penalty may
be stripes, but if committed with full willfulness against full light, the
penalty could be nothing short of death--the second death. R2658:2,
1986:3, 1618:3, 570:2
Every sin against light increases the danger of going into the second, or
eternal, death. R1736:5
In the great time of trouble, some will pass through a severer ordeal than
others. R249:6
By reason of the breaking down of their characters and the greater
demoralization of their consciences, they will need, and proportionately
receive that much more chastisement from the corrective rod of discipline
during the Millennial age. NS439:5
All the stripes will be reformatory, and with a view to helping and
encouraging the transgressors to abandon the ways of iniquity and walk in
the paths of righteousness. SM426:2
Partially wilful sins are partially unpardonable; in proportion as God
sees it to have been wilfully committed. R2612:2
Every sin against light increases the danger of going into the second, or
eternal, death. R1736:5
Some of these stripes may come to the transgressor in the present life;
but whether in the present or in the future life, every wilful
transgression will receive "a just recompense of reward." (Heb. 2:2)
HG616:5
Many and severe will be the stripes which a present life of
self-indulgence and gratification will naturally demand and receive under
the reign, before such will learn the lessons of that kingdom. A303
In proportion to the degree of knowledge and opportunity and willfulness.
R5400:4, 3356:4, 2612:2, 2385:4, 259:1; F719
Chastisements; corrective, not vindictive nor eternal. Q603:6; R570:2,
4114:4,5, 1736:5, 779:6
Suffer shame of conscience, contempt and other chastisements. F716-720
If they do not walk according to the light which they received. R2409:2
God's punishments will always be administered in justice, tempered with
mercy. R2613:2, 1471:4
In compensation and retribution. R2701:4
"A just recompense of reward." (Heb. 2:2) R724:1
With the Church, these stripes, or punishments, come in the present life.
R5318:5, 4271:6
When we receive grievous chastisement, we should accept it as from a
loving Father for our correction. R2613:2
Those who sin, knowing of and imposing on God's love and mercy, will have
special punishment. CR271:1
Luke 12:48
That knew not -- The heathen, for instance. HG720:6; SM426:2, 315:1
Infants and idiots, who have no knowledge whatever, have no responsibility
whatever, and will evidently deserve no stripes or punishment during the
Millennial age. SM315:1
Those who have never heard of the ransom. R779:6*
And did commit -- Ignorantly. R5400:4
Things worthy of stripes -- Only for such portions of transgressions as
have been in the nature of wilful wrong doing. R4114:4 Proportionate to
their ignorance. SM426:2
Forgiveness of sins in the future age will not mean that no stripes will
be put upon the transgressors. HG647:3
The blessed opportunity of attaining eternal life and earthly perfection
will not mean an escape from the penalty of willful sins of the present
life. HG720:5
Much is given -- Not speaking of the Church, but of those who have more
or less light of conscience, or light from the Divine Word, but who make
no use of their light, who in greater or lesser degree live in violation
of their conscience. SM315:2
According to their improvement or neglect of light enjoyed during the
Gospel age. R259:1 In the way of knowledge, opportunity, etc. R1655:4
To Christendom. D72
Be much required -- Judgment will be according to knowledge and ability
to do right--a just recompense of reward. R1655:4
The opposite is also true--where little is given, little is required.
R569:6
"Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." (Gal. 6:7) HG720:5
If the men of Nineveh and the queen of the south shall rise up in judgment
against Israel (Matt. 12:41,42), then Israel, and every previous
generation, and the heathen nations shall rise up against this generation
of Christendom. D72
That judgment will be according to knowledge and ability to do right--a
just recompense of reward. R1655:4
In proportion as we are enjoying the light, we have increased
responsibility to tell it to others. CR464:5
Ask the more -- That time will be tolerable for all in proportion as
their sins had been sins of ignorance. (Matt. 11:24) HG336:3
Luke 12:49
To send fire -- Trouble came upon them until their entire polity passed
away in the year AD 70. So we see now that more or less there are fires
burning here and there, exposing, to some extent, the evil-doers. R5317:3
Luke 12:50
I have a baptism -- While this is a daily dying, yet, in another sense

of the word, it is a sacrifice to the end of life. In one sense, his
sacrifice was accepted at Jordan. In another sense it was day by day until
that baptism was completed on the cross and he cried, "It is finished!"
(John 19:30) R5031:6; Q156:6
He said these words three and a half years after his water immersion, and
could not have referred to that. HG733:1
Of which immersion into water is the symbol. F435; R1543:1, 5542:6,
2417:5, 445:1
To be baptized with -- It required all of the Lord's three and a half
year ministry to complete the consecration symbolized by this baptism.
R2417:5; Q277:2
A sacrificial death, as man's redemptive price or sin-offering. PT388:3*;
F438; R5599:3
How am I straitened -- In difficulty. F438; HG602:4, 733:1; NS52:1
In our Lord Jesus, holy, harmless and undefiled, there was a contrast--the
earthly interests drawing one way and the heavenly interests another.
R5211:3
Realizing himself near the close of this death-baptism, when it would be
fully accomplished, and feeling the weights, trials and difficulties
growing heavier each moment, and having not a sympathizer. NS51:6
As he neared the completion of his baptism unto death, he experienced the
greater difficulty, and was longing for its completion. HG602:5
If we have indicated our willingness, we have the promise that the ability
will be supplied. R445:1
I am feeling greatly straitened, I find that connected with my death are
difficulties that I had not expected. R5599:3
He was anxiously awaiting its completion, which was reached at Calvary.
R5061:1
Spoken at about the Passover season, a time for peculiar temptations.
R3178:3
A conflict with the flesh was going on; but the Lord's spirit was firm.
R5211:5
Until it be accomplished -- Fulfilled very shortly after, when he died,
crying: "It is finished!" (John 19:30) F439; HG602:5; PD57/69; NS52:1
The next day he would die, as he well knew. He anxiously awaited the
morrow, the completion of his sacrificial death. R5599:3
This evidences the fact that our Lord did not receive water immersion as
the real immersion, but merely as a figure of the real baptism, baptism
into death as man's redemption price or sin offering. F438
Being perfect, he could do the things that he would. In our case the
matter is different. We are by nature fallen. Hence we need the merit of
Christ to assist us. R5211:5
Luke 12:51
That I am come -- In the harvest of either the Jewish or the Gospel Age.
B236
But rather division -- Separation; applicable now, until his Church has
been gathered and glorified, and his Kingdom set up in authority. R1577:6
Between those who love the truth supremely and others of the family; this
division cannot be avoided. B236
Because the children of darkness wage a continual warfare against the
light. F533
Luke 12:53
Against the son -- In the harvest the separation will mean, in many
instances, the uprooting of earthly friendships and the sundering of many
tender ties; and the truth will do the separating. B236
Luke 12:56
Ye hypocrites -- You are proud and hypocritical, and draw nigh to God
with your lips while your hearts are far from him. R1713:3
Jesus denounced them as a class. R5679:4
Ye do not discern -- If we are too much engaged in work or in pleasure
to have time to study, to watch properly, we find ourselves in difficulty.
R5202:1
This time -- That you, as a people, are even now en route to judgment.
R1713:3
Their ignorance was a mark of carelessness and unworthiness. R2981:4
They did not discern "the time of their visitation." (Luke 19:44) R5202:1,
1713:2, 1611:3*
None are so blind respecting the times in which we live and the great
changes impending as the leaders of religious thought. R2981:4
Luke 12:58
Thine adversary -- The divine law, which condemned all to death. (Rom.
7:10) R1713:3
Give diligence -- Admit the justice of the Law's condemnation, because
you have come short of its righteous requirements. R1713:3
That thou mayest -- While the offer of mercy is still made to you as a
nation, through faith in Christ, who, by his sacrifice, offers an
atonement for you. R1713:3
Delivered from him -- By acceptance of the atonement offered by Christ.
R1713:4, 4559:1
Permitted to come into God's favor at Pentecost. R4559:1
Lest he -- The Law, whose demands you fail to meet, though you claim to
meet them. R1713:4
To the officer -- To some power that would execute the penalty. R1713:4
Into prison -- Into a position of disfavor, such as that nation has
experienced ever since their rejection of Messiah. R1713:4
All that Jewish nation who rejected Jesus stumbled into prison nationally.
R4559:2
Luke 12:59
The very last mite -- In the forfeiture of the chief blessing, which was
offered to them first, but which they rejected. R1713:4, R3354:6
By the end of the Millennium they will have "paid the uttermost farthing"
(Matt. 5:26) and get free. R4559:2
Luke 13
Luke 13:1
Pilate had mingled -- God permits the wrath of men and of Satan, within
certain limits, in connection with the world of mankind; but in respect to
his elect Church it is different. F646
Luke 13:2
Sinners above all -- It is very seldom that God visits punishment upon
the world in the present time. R569:5
Luke 13:3
Nay -- Calamities are not always punishment for sin. R2668:4, 4148:6,
1773:3, 569:4
"Some men's sins are open beforehand and others they follow after." (1
Tim. 5:24) R1618:5
The Lord points forward to the day of judgment, when the guilty shall
receive their just deserts, and penitent sinners may return to God. R1618:5
Except ye repent -- Unless your knowledge of God, whenever it comes,
shall lead you to repentance. HG222:6
The prerequisite, on man's part, to salvation. R1437:2
The death sentence is over all, and only by getting into relationship with
the Life-giver can any of us hope to escape it. R4148:6
Likewise -- Our Lord Jesus used the calamities of his times as
illustrating the just penalty against all who do not flee sin and lay hold
upon the Redeemer and Life-giver. HG294:2
Perish -- Death, in whatever form it may come, is perishing, ceasing to
exist. HG293:4
Finally, all who fail to repent and lay hold upon the gracious Life-giver
shall perish; they shall fail to obtain the full restitution provided;
they shall never see (perfect) life. HG293:6
But while calamities may come to the saints, they never "happen"; nothing
that befalls them is of accident. F646
Luke 13:4
Tower in Siloam fell -- Calamities are to be regarded as accidents,

attributable to human imperfection and lack of experience, or to
disturbances incidental to the preparation of the earth for its more quiet
and perfect condition during the Millennium. HG294:3
Luke 13:5
Likewise perish -- Not all perish in the same manner, but all shall die.
R4148:6
Luke 13:6
Had a fig tree -- The Jewish nation. D604; R5503:2, 2564:4, 384:2, 127:1
Found none -- During the Gospel age, as a nation, they have borne no
fruit. R127:3*
Luke 13:7
These three years -- The three and a half years of our Lord's ministry
to the Jewish nation, and their final rejection by him, are represented in
this parable. R2564:4, 127:2*
Luke 13:10
On the sabbath -- Since Jesus according to the flesh was a Jew, and
therefore bound by all the commandments of the Jewish Law, he could do
nothing contrary to that Law. He could not set it aside, nor was it proper
that he explain to the Jews the real meaning of the Sabbath. R5405:6
Luke 13:12
Thou art loosed -- Jesus released her from her bondage. R5406:1
Luke 13:14
Not on the sabbath -- A special rebuke to Jesus, intimating that he was

not so holy and so careful of the Sabbath as he should be, but was a
violator of the Law. R5406:1
Jesus did many of his miracles on the Sabbath days, partly to emphasize
the fact that the great Sabbath, the seventh thousand-year day of earth's
history, will be the time of his kingdom, in which all mankind will be
privileged to be healed from sin and sickness. R5405:6
So, during the antitypical Sabbath, the Millennium, it will be declared to
all the world that "whosoever will" (Rev. 22:17) may have life and health
eternal if he will take the steps of faith and obedience. B40
Making the reasonable Law of God to appear unreasonable to the people.
R5406:1
Luke 13:15
Thou hypocrite -- Exaggerating the letter of the Law while ignoring its
spirit. R5405:6
Luke 13:16
Whom Satan -- The prince of death and darkness. (Compare Heb. 2:14)
R2014:5
A malevolent being, opposed to God and to righteousness, with a certain
power for evil-- occult powers. SM323:2
Has adopted "mind cures" to draw the attention of the world and keep them
blinded. R2014:5
Hath bound -- He does possess certain power for evil. SM323:2
Mrs. Eddy's son declared his belief that his mother was under occult
influence. SM324:T
From this bond -- From her special infirmity, but not from all the
bondage of corruption. She was still subject to pain and death. (Rom.
8:21) R816:6
Sabbath day -- Typical of the times of restitution. R816:6
Luke 13:18
Unto what -- The different parables illustrative of the kingdom treat it

from different standpoints, just as we might take different photographs of
persons or a building at different stages of development or from different
angles. R5406:3
The kingdom of God -- Few have noticed that nearly all of Jesus'
teachings related to the Kingdom of God. This was because the Kingdom of
God is the great divine remedy for sin. All that took place prior to the
coming of Jesus was merely preparatory. R5406:1
A term synonymous with "the Kingdom of heaven." (See Mark 4:30,31) R397:1
The Church is the Kingdom now, only in the prospective sense--by faith.
R397:4
Luke 13:19
Grain of mustard seed -- A small beginning. R5406:5, 45:6

A great tree -- A picture of the outward appearance of the church--very
prosperous. R5406:5
The fowls of the air -- Elsewhere Jesus declared that the birds
represented the wicked one and his angels, ever ready to take away the
seed of truth and to work adversely as respects the Gospel program. (Matt.
13:4,19; Rev. 18:2) R5406:5
Which have grievously befouled the tree. C187
"Babylon is a cage of every unclean and hateful bird." (Rev. 18:2) C187,
162; R5406:5, 5050:1
Luke 13:20
The kingdom of God -- The sacrificial death of Jesus was the foundation
to the setting up of God's Kingdom. R5406:2
Illustrating the process by which the Church would get into the wrong
condition. R4636:3
The Church as an embryotic Kingdom. R5406:5
Luke 13:21
Like leaven -- Leaven, in the Bible, is always used as a symbol of

corruption, of sin. R5406:6; F464; T98
"Purge out, therefore, the old leaven [sin, malice, hatred, strife,
etc.], that ye may be a new lump." (1 Cor. 5:7) R5050:1, 2635:1
Which a woman -- A woman, in symbolic language, represents a church
system. (Rev. 2:20) R5406:6
And hid -- Corrupting the divine message, the spiritual food which God
had prepared for the church. R5406:6
Today the entire mass of theological doctrine is putrid, offensive to all
Christian people. R5050:4
Luke 13:23
And he said -- Jesus did not give a direct answer to the question for
two reasons: (1) the holy Spirit had not yet come; and (2) it was not the
due time to explain the particulars of the two salvations. R5407:1
To have answered their question in full would have led to many other
questions for whose answers they were not prepared. R1951:3
It is not for us or anyone to answer the query which our Lord refused to
answer. The most we are privileged to do is to point out that "a ransom
for all" (1 Tim. 2:6) has been given by our Lord. E401
The fact that God had in purpose another call, to another class, in the
Millennial age, may cheer and comfort us now, but it should not encourage
any one to reject a present call and to hope for another. R1951:3
Luke 13:24
Strive -- Make great effort. R1951:3

The way of morality, temperance, moderation and wisdom, although a
commendable way, is not the way in which the Christian of this Gospel age
is invited to walk. R2074:4
How different from that easy-going Christianity which seems but a very
little removed from the spirit of the world, and which views the zeal
which strives, fights, runs and watches as extreme, peculiar, fanatical
and foolish. R2123:2, 1951:3
The rich, the popular, those absorbed in business, are content with the
things of this life and scarce likely to leave them for things for which
they feel no need. R108:2*
"Give all diligence to make your calling and election sure." (2 Pet. 1:10)
R1113:1
To enter in -- To the Kingdom. R5407:2
The strait gate -- Difficult. R1951:3
For a certain period of time, the door to the high calling stands ajar.
R5407:2
Many -- Of the "many" who accept the call, "few" will be chosen. R1113:2
The way is made narrow by the circumstances of the present time, by the
opposition of the worldly spirit against truth and righteousness. C207
Within are ministering spirits, all conspiring for our ultimate membership
in the new creation. F152
Luke 13:25
Of the house -- The Church. R224:5 Shut to the door -- Not the door of
mercy, thank God! but nevertheless a door--the door of opportunity of
entering into and becoming members of the Kingdom class, the elect Church.
NS319:6
To the "narrow way." R224:5
When all the faithful "wise" virgins shall have been proved so, and have
entered into the joys of the Lord. R1112:6; C221
The illustration is that of an eastern wedding, as represented in the
parable of the ten virgins (Matt. 25:1-13). When the Master and his ready,
accompanying friends have entered, the door is shut. R1951:6
As soon as the last one completing the number shall have qualified for
glory and shall have passed through the door, it will be shut. R5407:4,
1951:6; NS319:6
This may also be understood to refer to the closing of the door of
Israel's favor eighteen centuries ago. Both views are true to the facts
and to Scriptures, though the Gospel age application fits some further
details. NS319:4
What may be the outward indication that the door is shut we know not, but
we will expect to see some evidence of it. R224:5
Of opportunity; to the narrow way. "They that were ready went in with him
to the marriage, and the door was shut." (Matt. 25:10) C221; R1952:1,
1112:6, 224:5
"I am he that shutteth and no man openeth." (Rev. 3:7) C195
All opportunity to become of the wise virgin class by engaging in the
harvest work will be thereby ended. C210, 213, 221
This does not mean that the foolish virgins will be consigned to eternal
torment. F75
When the full predestinated number of the Church has been called, chosen
and found faithful. (Rev. 17:14) R1951:6, 5407:4, 1112:6; Q75:1
The door through which the Bride class will enter will close, never to
open again, perhaps a year or more after the door to service has closed.
Q75:1
Knock at the door -- Apparently glad then to give their all for an
opportunity to enter, but it will be too late. R225:4
We have done many mighty works; are we not to be of the Bride class?
R5407:4
I know you not -- As my Bride. R1112:6, 224:5; C221
All outside are treated as strangers and the festivities proceed without
them. R1951:6
They will then realize they have failed to make their calling and election
sure. R1952:1
Luke 13:26
Then shall ye -- Then many will begin to see matters differently--to see
what privileges and opportunities for sacrifice they once enjoyed and
missed. R1112:6; C221
About that time a great awakening of religious thought will come to the
world, in the midst of a great time of trouble. R5407:4
We have eaten -- There will be a great lamentation, crying, Lord, Lord,
are we not to be of the Bride class? R5407:4, 224:5
Some would be found to be very prominent, confident and boastful, whom he
would not be willing to acknowledge as his bride. Some will be found
busily engaged in building up Babylon, but neglecting the divine Word and
their own character building. NS319:5
Luke 13:27
I know you not -- Many believing, praying and working Christians will be
disappointed; for prophesying, casting our devils, praying Lord, Lord, and
doing many wonderful works are all insufficient to obtain the reward of
heaven. HG555:6
The Lord will disown them as respects the Bride company. R5407:4
Luke 13:28
There shall be weeping -- Right here on the earth, amongst a class who
neglected the privileges of the high calling when they knew of it. R5407:4
Not alone will there be disappointment in losing the great prize, but some
of the trouble and tribulation will arise because they will find
themselves suddenly in the midst of a "great time of trouble." R1952:1
Grief is indeed implied, but not one word about an eternity of grief.
HG303:2
Signifying chagrin, disappointment, savage animosity; as in the case of
Stephen: "They gnashed on him with their teeth." (Acts 7:54) R4329:1;
Q732:2
Ye -- Unfaithful Jews. R4071:6
Shall see -- The Kingdom itself will be invisible to men, but its
earthly representatives will be seen and known to all mankind. HG440:4;
NS679:4
The Ancient Worthies will become visible representatives to men of the
glorified spiritual Christ, Head and Body. R5762:1, 5407:5, 1872:5,
1851:3, 1693:2; D619; SM226:1
Not merely as they were, but resurrected to human perfection, samples of
what mankind may attain. R5299:2
In each one of these Ancient Worthies God will be manifest in the flesh.
They will be princes at that time and will rule the earth, under Christ's
Kingdom. R5291:3
The world will never see Messiah, except as they see His mind, His
disposition, His character, through these earthly representatives. SM733:T
Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob -- Jesus said not one word about any one
seeing himself or any one of the apostles in Kingdom glory. R5199:5
Indicating identity in the resurrection. R678:4
Who died before the ransom was paid, and were not therefore called to a
place in the spiritual Kingdom, the "better thing for us." (Heb. 11:40)
D625; F86, 112; R5836:3, 5407:5
The world will have contact with them, and be blessed by their
instruction. SM733:T
The glory and perfection of these Ancient Worthies will be an example and
incentive to men to strive to attain the same. A290
And all the prophets -- From John the Baptizer back to Abel. D625
In the kingdom -- Those who will be in the Kingdom of God will not be
the subjects of it, but the rulers in it. R860:4
These intermediaries, while not the Kingdom in the proper sense of the
word, will be so fully the representatives of it amongst men that they
will be recognized as the Kingdom by men. D619
The earthly phase. R4071:6, 1634:6, 1580:1; D619; OV56:4
The earthly phase of the Kingdom was all that had ever been revealed until
Jesus came and taught concerning a Kingdom higher, into which humanity
(flesh and blood) could not enter. R219:5
Therefore not a contradiction of Matt. 11:11: "He that is least in the
Kingdom of heaven is greater than he (John the Baptist)." R637:3*
There is only one Kingdom per se, and that is the Church; but it will have
servants and representatives which to the world will be its Kingdom or
direct government. R2052:1
These will be in communication and cooperation with the heavenly phase of
Yourselves thrust out -- They will not even have a share in the earthly
Kingdom. It will be given to the worthies of the past who lived and died
before the high calling was opened up. R5407:5
Not in power or occupying ruling positions, but they will not be deprived
of the blessings of that Kingdom which are for "all the families of the
earth." (Gen. 12:3) R860:2
All the unworthy of the Jewish age shall be excluded. R1580:1
Luke 13:29
They -- Some of the Gentiles. R5407:5

From the east -- The heirs of the Kingdom will not be entirely Jewish,
because the Jews as a nation were not sufficiently holy and because the
Lord could accept only the holy. R5407:5
Luke 13:30
Last which shall be first -- The Gentiles were last in God's favor.
R5407:5
The last to die will probably be the first to be awakened. D641; R4499:1,
5531:6
Adam and Eve will probably be the last of the human family to be awakened.
D641; R5531:6, 4499:1
First which shall be last -- In point of time, God called fleshly Israel
first; but in point of favor, and in time of realization, Spiritual Israel
comes first. B206
The Jews were first in God's favor and the Gentiles last; yet some of the
first with privilege and opportunity would fail. R5407:5
The heavenly rulers, the Church, developed last, will be first in grandeur
of position and time of installment. A293; B206; R219:6
The earthy rulers, the Ancient Worthies, developed first, will be
installed last, under the Church. A293; B206; R219:6
Some who have not been favored during this Gospel age will be granted the
chief favor during the coming Age. F118
When the Kingdom is ushered in, God's special favor will pass again to
Natural Israel. F118
The race will come out of the "prison-house" of death in reverse order to
that in which they entered. R5531:6, 4499:1; D641; SM441:T
Luke 13:32
That fox -- Herod. R1695:3

I cast out -- Jesus, as the Head, represents the whole Christ so
thoroughly, that whatever might be said of him could be applied on a still
larger and grander scale, to the Body and seed of which he is the Head.
R292:2
I do cures -- Partly to represent the higher work of the healing of
spiritual maladies. On this principle, he and the Church have been doing
this work, but in only a limited and imperfect manner. R92:3*
To day and to morrow -- The cures and blessings of divine grace have
prevailed during the fifth, the day in which our Lord and the apostles
lived, and also during the sixth thousand-year day. R2294:5, 1695:5,
292:2, 92:4*
The third day -- On the seventh, the grand Millennial Sabbath, Christ
and his Church will be perfected and the cures correspondingly increased.
R2294:5, 1695:5, 292:2, 92:4*
Be perfected -- He is not perfected until all, both the living and dead
members, are glorified with him. As Eve was the glory of Adam, and his
complement, so of the Church in relation to Christ. R92:3*
In which the Temple is to be "raised up" in Kingdom power and glory.
R1695:5, 2294:4, 292:1
Then the great work of restitution will begin. R3080:6
See also comments on Hosea 6:2 and John 2:19.
Luke 13:33
To day and to morrow -- The use of the word day in two senses in the
same connection, without an explanation, is similar to his use of the word
death in two senses in the statement: "Let the dead bury their dead."
(Matt. 8:22) R92:2*
A prophet perish -- Showing he was not to be put to death until he had
reached Jerusalem. R92:2*
Luke 13:34
Killest the prophets -- When Jesus came, those who had been under such
special divine instruction were, as a nation, totally unready to receive
him as the Messiah, and crucified him. R5768:6
As a hen -- Greek, hon tropon, in like manner. R341:1
Ye would not -- The people, under the guidance of the scribes and the
Pharisees, the theologians of that time, made light of the message and
went their way--one to his farm, and another to his merchandise. (Matt.
22:5) R5510:5
The literal seed of Abraham having thus failed to accept the Kingdom, the
next step was to form a new nation, "an holy nation, a peculiar people" (1
Pet. 2:9), to be the Kingdom. R2276:2,3
Luke 13:35
Your house -- These are the ones who the Apostle says count themselves
unworthy of the grace of God, the ones who God blinded and turned aside
during the full period of this Gospel age, during the period of the
gathering of the elect of this Gospel age. NS370:5
Left unto you -- Here assuming kingly office; a date parallel to the
spring of AD 1878. R5772:5, 181:6*
The "coming" of the Son of Man referred to in Matt. 10:23. R2645:2
Desolate -- A very short time afterwards it began to lose its power; and
the Jewish nation lost its identity completely as a nation in the year AD
70, 37 years after. R4788:5
Failure in their trial or judgment meant the loss of their privilege of
making them God's Kingdom for the blessing of all the families of the
earth, and their remanding again under a death sentence, as unworthy of
life under the Law. NS641:5
The typical sacrifices were repudiated by the Father, as the antitype
followed immediately upon the cessation of the type of the Atonement Day
sacrifices. R5967:1
Ever since, the Jews have been desolate and blighted as a nation, but
there is a promise that this blighted fig tree (Mark 11:13,14) shall again
become a living tree, a living nation. R5920:6
Just so now it is with professedly Christian nations. Desolation is coming
upon them even as it came upon the Jews in the end of their age. CR495:5
The literal seed of Abraham having thus failed to accept the Kingdom, the
next step was to find another nation more worthy than the Jews. R2276:3
The first Palm Sunday was the turning point marking the rejection of
natural Israel as a nation and the inauguration of Spiritual Israel as the
"holy nation." NS630:5
A turning point with the Jewish nation; a short time afterwards it began
to lose power and 37 years later lost its identity completely as a nation.
R5495:3, 4788:5
The favor which has been exclusively yours is now withdrawn. A72, 223;
B70; R1966:4
9:12) B225
These words, pronounced as our Lord's first act on assuming office as King
of the Jews, 33 AD, typified the rejection of nominal Spiritual Israel in
1878 AD. B225, 246; C151; R5772:5, 229:1
As natural Israel was tested in the "harvest" of the Jewish age, so
spiritual Israel is tested in the "harvest" of the Gospel age. R2645:3
Until the time come -- The curse did not seal their eternal doom. This
was "blindness" only for a time, Paul says. (Rom. 11:25-27) R127:3*
Nearly nineteen centuries later. R5495:3
The Millennial day. Q107:2
When ye shall say -- From the heart. B226
As prophesied by David in Psa. 118:26. D639
Blessed is he -- Our Lord's words of this verse emphasize five points:
(1) the Jews had the first opportunity to become the elect of God; (2) the
time had come to end their national favor; (3) furnishing the opportunity
for the installation of the antitypical house of sons (Heb. 3:6); (4) the
selection of spiritual Israel during our Lord's absence, when natural
Israel would not see him; (5) that their blindness shall be turned away
and favor return to them. R3539:2
Luke 14
Luke 14:1
As he went into -- Evidently before entering the dining room, probably

in the courtyard. R2699:3
To eat bread -- Jesus never refused an invitation to a feast, always
using such occasions as opportunities for the presentation of the truth.
R3831:2, 2699:2
Our Lord was prompt to avail himself of all such table-talk opportunities.
On each occasion of his attendance we find him utilizing the opportunity
for the inculcation of some truth--natural or spiritual. R2700:2
The custom of having Bible talks during the meal hour is profitable. To
partake of heavenly food at the same time that we appropriate the natural
is quite proper. We see that this was Jesus' custom. R5414:3, 2700:1
The practice at the Bible House for table talks described in detail.
R3832:6, 2700:1
On the sabbath day -- The Sabbath was quite a feast day amongst the
Jews, but in accordance with the requirements of the Law the dishes were
served cold--cooked previously. R3831:1, 2699:3
Considerable blessing might be experienced, and additional opportunity for
spiritual development enjoyed, if Christian people were to cook a double
portion on Saturday, and thus leave themselves freer from domestic
responsibilities on the day of worship. R2699:3
Our celebration of the first day of the week as a Christian Sabbath should
not be with the thought that it is a law, but rather an appreciation of
the privilege of leaving the ordinary affairs of life for spiritual
things. R3831:5
They watched him -- Critically, rather than sympathetically; looking for
faults rather than for virtues. R3831:2
Doubtless these men were interested in coming in close contact with him,
with a view to judging according to their own standards respecting his
character, teaching and miracles. R3831:2
Luke 14:2
A certain man -- He may have been a member of the household or family;

indeed our Lord possibly may have been invited there with a view to
proposing the healing of this one with the infirmity. R3831:2
Luke 14:3
Jesus answering -- Discussing the subject in advance on this occasion.

R5406:4
Heal on the sabbath -- Our Lord was still under the terms of the Law
Covenant; hence nothing that our Lord did on the Sabbath day--healing the
sick, etc.--could properly be esteemed a violation of the fourth
commandment. R3831:4
His custom was to do a large proportion of his miracles on the Sabbath day
because that typified the Millennial day in which he will scatter
blessings of healing amongst all the people. R2699:6
all the world that "whosoever will" may have life and health eternal if he
will take the steps of faith and obedience. B40
Luke 14:4
They held their peace -- No doubt feeling themselves somewhat incompetent

to discuss any question with one whom they had all learned to recognize as a
great Teacher, however much they rejected his Messiahship. R2699:6
No objection to healing on the Sabbath day having been cited from the Law,
our Lord performed the miracle. R3831:3
Showing his own understanding of the matter, that it would be right to
heal him. R2699:6
Touched him, so that it might be manifest that the miracle was of divine
power through him. R3831:3
Luke 14:5
An ass or an ox -- As it could not be wrong to assist a dumb animal out

of difficulty on the Sabbath, much less could it be wrong to relieve the
distress of a human being made in the image of God. R2700:1
Another reading is: "Which of you having a son or even an ox." R3831:3
Luke 14:6
Could not answer -- They all knew that, where their selfish interests
were involved, they would decide that there was nothing in the Law to
hinder lending assistance on the Sabbath. R3831:3
Luke 14:7
A parable to those -- Speaking in a manner that would not be appropriate

to any but himself, criticizing the gathered guests. R5414:3, 3832:1
He called attention to the wrong self-seeking course, not by saying
anything against the action in this particular case, but by suggesting a
propriety of conduct in a general way. R2700:3
Probably in answer to some question. R3832:1
How they chose -- Thus showing the pride and ambition of their hearts.
R2700:3
Luke 14:8
In the highest room -- We are frequently charged with seeking selfishly

for something superior to what others will receive, but we are interested
not so much in the dignities of the Kingdom as for any place in that great
marriage feast. R3832:2
Luke 14:9
Take the lowest room -- An ambitious striving for position in the

present time will surely mean a loss of the Lord's favor and a much
humbler position in the Kingdom, if pride did not hinder entirely from
being accepted as members of the Little Flock. R3832:3
Luke 14:10
In the lowest room -- We may safely assume that our Lord and his
disciples took the less distinguished seats, in harmony with the
Scriptural injunction, "In honor preferring one another." (Rom. 12:10)
R2700:3
A quotation of Prov. 25:7. R2053:2
He that bade thee -- It would not occur to any of us to think of
ourselves in connection with high honors and dignities except as we find
it plainly stated in the divine Word; but finding it there it is the duty
of faith to accept whatever we may be deemed worthy of. R3832:3
Go up higher -- The chief places will not be given to those most bold,
most inclined to usurp authority; but, on the contrary, the Lord will not
forget the man or woman of humble mind. R3832:1
Luke 14:11
Exalteth himself -- Praises himself. R4115:3

Amongst the Gentiles the rulers are lords, who do not service but are
served, but among the followers of Jesus the rule is to be reversed.
R3363:1
Ambition is a very necessary faculty of the human mind, without which the
world would make comparatively little progress; but it is a very dangerous
element as respects the formation of Christian character. R3832:2
A man has no right to aspire to be an angel, never having been invited to
that position; nor has an angel a right to aspire to the divine nature.
That was the crime of Satan which brought his abasement, and will end in
his destruction. (Isa. 14:14) R612:3; A189
Knowledge without humility might puff up. R5988:4
Such could not be trusted in a high position. R5414:6
A true elder, a real servant of the Lord, is to avoid a self-seeking
spirit. R5389:1
The Lord has no use for the proud and self-sufficient, either in the
present age in the instructing and building up of the Church, or in the
future age in the instruction and uplifting of the world. R5988:1
Shall be abased -- God would do this abasing, not of a vengeful spirit,
but because the one who would vaunt himself must be brought low. R4928:2
The self-seeking, the proud in spirit, could not be trusted by the Lord in
a high position. They might do damage to themselves and to the Lord's
cause with such a spirit. R5414:6
As illustrated by Satan. A189
What degradation can await such self-exaltation as is shown in the
utterances of the Papacy! B313
Humbleth himself -- Humility is important, not only on its own account,
but also because the other graces of the holy Spirit cannot be cultivated
without it. R4787:1
If we look at our own imperfections and the good qualities of others, we
shall find ourselves more and more appreciative of others. R4928:3
Only as we are in a humble attitude of mind can we get a view of the
lengths, breadths, heights and depths of the divine plan. Otherwise we
would continually find our view of God and of his Word and plan obstructed
by self. R2860:4
There is always plenty of room at the bottom of the ladder of honor. F296
Ones who would not be injured by the exaltation, nor in danger of
deflecting in the future work to which all of the Kingdom class are
called. R5414:6; HG623:5
Ambition is necessary in the Church as well as in the world; but in the
new creation it must not be a selfish ambition to be great and prominent,
but a loving ambition to serve the Lord and his people, even the very
humblest. F296
A self-seeking brother should be passed by, however capable; and a less
capable, but humble brother, should be chosen for elder. F296
It becomes all God's intelligent creatures to receive, with humble
gratitude, whatever God may bestow. R612:3
One of the secrets of the greatness of Joseph: he honored God, and was
therefore of the kind whom God is pleased eventually to honor and exalt.
R3978:6
Illustrated by the contrast between Joshua and Korah, Dathan and Abiram.
R3079:2
Illustrated by the contrasting course of Jesus and Satan. NS623:3
Illustrated by the behavior of John the Baptist. R4115:2
As Christ did, to become man's Redeemer. E425
This principle applies to both human and spirit beings. R5535:6, 5844:5
None will be granted life everlasting who do not cheerfully humble
themselves under the mighty hand of God. R5535:6
If divine favor is expected, it must be sought, not in pride and
self-sufficiency, but in humility. 2700:4
The other graces of the holy Spirit cannot be cultivated without humility.
R4787:1
A lesson of vital importance to all who would be ready for and enter the
Kingdom. R2700:3
The path of humility is the path to glory. R5535:6 Now the proud are happy
(Mal. 3:15), but in the next age all the blessings will be upon the
contrite and humble. R5218:5
Shall be exalted -- The statement of a philosophical principle of divine
law. R1766:6
A principle of divine government illustrated in the opposite courses of
the Logos not meditating a usurpation to be equal with God (Phil. 2:6),
and Lucifer, who said: "I will be like the Most High." (Isa. 14:14) R5844:5
Now the humble and contrite are trodden down in the street. Now the proud
are happy. R5218:5
But not necessarily to the highest position. A189; R612:3
In due time; in the new Kingdom. R1766:6, 5218:5
God's blessing will come to us along this line or not at all. R1537:4
He who would serve most was to be esteemed most highly. R3363:1
Those who would not be injured by exaltation nor in danger of deflecting.
R5414:6
"Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may
exalt you in due time." (1 Pet. 5:6) R3079:2, 5844:5, 4928:2, 3978:6,
3832:3, 3363:1
Luke 14:12
Said he also -- Perhaps in answer to another question. R3832:3

Probably considerable was said in the interim that was not recorded or
pertinent. R2700:5
When thou makest -- Words of counsel to his host in so kind and so wise
a manner that it would surely give no offence. R2700:5
Call not thy friends -- Not that it would be wrong to invite friends,
neighbors or kinsmen who might invite us in turn, but we are not to think
that in so doing we are laying up any treasure in heaven. R5415:1, 3832:4
A recompense be made -- If we get our rewards for good deeds in the
present life, how will there be anything coming to us in the future?
R5415:1
Luke 14:13
Call the poor -- The Pharisee had done something of the very kind in
inviting Jesus and probably his disciples to dinner. He well knew that
they were poor and would be unable to ask him in return. R5415:1
Perhaps the Lord wished to show his host than in inviting himself and his
disciples he had really done a gracious act, provided he had the gracious
motive back of it. R3832:4, 2700:5
Whoever enters into paying support of the poor in a proper spirit is doing
something meritorious; but whoever pays such taxes from compulsion merely,
without appreciation, evidently would not be deserving of any credit.
R5415:1
Luke 14:14
Shalt be recompensed -- Our Lord intimates that every good deed

willingly done from the right motive may be sure to have a blessing in the
present or in the future life. R3832:4, 1008:4
Not that those works will justify any, but being then justified by faith
in the ransom, these shall be rewarded for those good deeds done before
the light of truth was made so clear. R570:2
Every act of kindness which anyone may now do for those more distressed
than themselves will have its effect upon their own hearts, not only
blessing them for the life that now is, but preparing their hearts through
a greater nobility for a higher relative position in the future during the
Millennium. NS536:5
Let us therefore, in the world and in our families and amongst those who
are not of the consecrated class, encourage large benevolence, kindness
and generosity, knowing that these will be beneficial to our friends.
NS536:6
A reward that would fully compensate every such benefaction. R2700:5
Not a reward of glory, honor, immortality and joint-heirship in the
Kingdom of God, but a good reward, more than compensating for the kindness
they performed. R2701:4
At the resurrection of the just -- There is a general division line
between the just and the unjust, those who please God and those who please
him not, the first resurrection class and the latter resurrection class.
NS535:1
The Greek word anastasis here has the article, showing emphasis and
indicating that the first or special resurrection is surely meant. R1512:2
The reward of such good works will not be a share in the resurrection of
the just, but, when the just are resurrected, a blessing will accrue to
these for having done kindness to those who could not return the kindness.
NS536:2
Not in the first resurrection, but at that time--after the first
resurrection shall have glorified the Church and inaugurated the Kingdom.
R2701:4, 3832:6, 1512:2, 1008:4
That is, when the just, the justified, the Church, shall be resurrected in
the first resurrection, then every good and every evil word and act will
be recompensed--in Paradise. HG437:6
Full recompenses, either rewards or punishments, are not to be expected
before the resurrection. R1881:5; HG334:1
Thus those who have "fallen asleep" have not already "gone to their
reward." HG347:4
Blessed is he -- Doubtless uttered in a reverent spirit, possibly by one
of the apostles, with a view to turning the attention of the company to
the message which the Master and his disciples were proclaiming--the
Kingdom of heaven is at hand. R3833:1
That shall eat bread -- Be counted worthy to share with Christ in the
honors and glory of the spiritual Kingdom established. R1958:4
The reference to eating bread in the Kingdom, viewed from the oriental
standpoint, would signify to be on good terms with the King, and a new
regime, and to be a participator in the blessings of that glorious epoch.
R3833:2
Luke 14:16
Then said he -- Thus gradually the minds of the company present had been
led from earthly things and from commonplace matters and social chit-chat
to the consideration of the gracious promises of God. R2701:2
A certain man -- God himself is the host in this parable. R2701:3
A great supper -- The Jews usually ate two meals a day: a very simple
breakfast and the second and principal meal consisting of more elaborate
dishes. The great feasts were usually made about sundown. R3833:3
Evidently the marriage feast of another parable. R3834:1
The feast announced as ready at the beginning of the Gospel age; first, by
John the Baptist, to the Jewish nation. R1957:3
The great feast is the high calling which has come to us. R2701:6
Representing the rich blessings of God's providence for the Church--the
knowledge of the truth, justification, spirit begettal and the privilege
of appropriating the exceeding great and precious promises of God's Word.
R5415:4
Not the feast of Isa. 25:6. R1957:2, 342:3
The feast of this Gospel age pertains to the spiritual phase of the
Kingdom, while that of the age to come will pertain to the earthly
Kingdom. R1957:3
Only a select number are invited. R1957:3
The nuptial feast; the marriage supper of the Lamb. R5415:5, 3834:5
The good tidings pertaining to the spiritual phase of the Kingdom: "O
taste and see that the Lord is good." (Psa. 34:8) R1957:3
And bade many -- It is not for all people, but for the "few selected"
among the "many invited" in the present age. R342:3
The story shows three divisions, or parts, to the one call which gathers
the guests. R2300:3, 1958:1
To enjoy the great feast of the Kingdom for which they had waited and
hoped and prayed over sixteen centuries. R2701:5, 3833:1
Long years before he had sent word to the Jewish nation that in due time
such a great blessing would be open to them--the privilege of becoming
members of the Kingdom of God, sharers of it with Messiah. R5415:3, 2701:3
It was customary to send out the notifications long in advance, without
specifying exactly the time, which would depend upon contingent
circumstances. R3833:3
Luke 14:17
Sent his servant -- On the day of the feast, when it was assured that
there would be no miscarriage of the arrangements, servants were sent to
those already notified or bidden that they might come promptly to the
feast. R3833:3
The message of Jesus and the twelve, and later the seventy, throughout all
Judea, was the invitation. R2701:5
The first invitation represents the first years of our Lord's ministry.
R2701:6, 2301:1
At supper time -- The feast had been in preparation for more than
eighteen centuries since its first announcement. R3833:5
The feast was not ready until our Lord's day, and hence the invitation to
partake of it did not go forth until then. R2701:3, 2301:1
During the three and one-half years of our Lord's ministry, in which he
was being slain as the bullock for the feast. 2301:1,2, 2701:3
Them that were bidden -- Previously bidden, and who had during the three
and a half years of our Lord's ministry refused to come. R2301:1
Those who were originally bidden, but who began to make excuse, were the
Jews. R3833:4, 1958:1
The ones especially invited were the ones who specifically claimed to be
the "holiness people" --the Pharisees and the Doctors of the Law. R5415:4,
2701:6, 342:5
Come -- Come in condition of heart to enter into the Kingdom, to be
begotten of the Spirit, become new creatures, joint-heirs with Messiah.
R3833:5
We have been invited, we have accepted, we have the white garment that we
might enter. CR301:2
All things are now ready -- Jesus came saying, "The time is fulfilled,
and the Kingdom of God is at hand." (Mark 1:15) R1957:3, 4679:2, 2701:4,
2301:1, 342:5
Luke 14:18
They all -- Those who did receive our Lord were so few as to leave them
almost unworthy of being mentioned. Additionally, those who received
Jesus, were, in a large measure, the publicans and sinners. R3833:6
With one consent -- The great majority of the Jewish nation failed the
test, not accepting Jesus as Messiah. R5837:4
To make excuse -- The servant looked so meek and, as lovers of pleasure
more than lovers of God, they did not believe they would enjoy the feast.
They would not say this in so many words, but preserve an outward form of
godliness, instead making excuses as being too busy. R3833:5
The cost was too much! Those who were found in that condition of mind were
none of them living up to their profession. R5837:4
They dishonored the host who had invited them to his banquet. R5435:4
Contrary to all precedents, these guests declined. Our Lord purposely made
the parable contrary to the custom. R3833:4
When the point was reached of making a positive decision as to whether
they would accept God's conditions, but few were ready. R5837:4
He had no time for responding to the divine invitation to the Kingdom.
2701:5
Overcharged with the cares of this life. R4679:2
And this sentiment of fleshly Israel is largely that of spiritual Israel
also, now that the spiritual Kingdom is announced. R2701:5
I have bought -- The invited ones were full, covetous, money-lovers, too
busy with worldly prospects. R5415:3
The rich, the popular, those absorbed in business are content with the
things of this life and are scarce likely to leave them for things for
which they feel no need. R108:2*
It is impossible to be thorough-going business men, wealthy, influential,
etc., and at the same time follow in the footsteps of Jesus, giving all of
our hearts, talents and energies to the Lord. R2702:5
This does not debar those who have riches of any kind, but really gives
them all the greater privilege and opportunity; for they have that much
greater talent which, if they will, they may sacrifice. R2702:5
A piece of ground -- With one the pressure came in the direction of
seeing to his farm, and thus being not slothful in business. R2701:5
Have me excused -- They had no desire to have their own plans superseded
by God's plans. R342:6
In one sense, this is all right, for it merely keeps out of the Kingdom a
class which the Lord does not desire should be in it, and which if it did
come in would need to be sifted out later. R2701:6
Many feel that those things which they would call the real, practical
affairs of life need all of their attention. R2701:6
Luke 14:19
Five yoke of oxen -- It might do very well for people who had nothing
else to do but to give attention to a spiritual feast, but as for him, his
time was fully occupied with his property. R2701:5
Luke 14:20
Married a wife -- Another felt that his duties, social ties, wife,
children, etc., demanded all of his attention, and that therefore he could
not accept the Kingdom privileges. R2701:5
Luke 14:21
Being angry -- Not mad or in a rage, but indignant, and with perfect
propriety. R3833:6
As he had every right to be. It was a shameful procedure to accept an
invitation, to allow the host to expect the invited one and to make
elaborate preparations, and then at the final moment to make some trivial
excuse. R3833:4
Go out quickly -- At once. R342:2
After the nation as a whole proved unworthy, and for a number of years
after the crucifixion, the Gospel message went again to Israel, to
individuals of that nation. R2301:1, 2702:1
Streets and lanes -- In the days of our Lord it would be easy to thus
collect a large crowd of indigent and infirm. R2702:2
Of the city -- Or, government. R342:6
Both of these first calls belong to the city--that is, Israel, the nominal
kingdom of God. R2702:2
The poor -- The apostles were sent to gather, not the nation, but such
individuals as were of humble mind. R2702:1
The poor had the Gospel preached to them. Publicans and sinners were
received by our Lord, invited to accept forgiveness of sins and
participate in the Kingdom in joint-heirship with their Redeemer. R5415:4,
3834:1, 342:6
The prodigal-son class. R1958:1
The morally and mentally poor, blind and maimed. R2301:2, 342:6
Jesus came to his own, and his own people received him not; but as many as
received him (believed his message), to them (publicans, harlots, etc.)
gave he power (liberty) to (come to the feast) become sons of God. (John
1:12) R342:6
Nearly all the preaching of Jesus and his disciples was to the poor of
Israel. R5415:4
After the nation had proven itself unworthy, and Jesus had wept over the
city, the apostles were sent to gather humble-minded individuals. R2702:1
Invited to accept forgiveness of sins, and come in and be heirs of God,
joint-heirs with Jesus Christ. (Rom. 8:17) R5415:4
The maimed -- Who confessed that they were not perfect, but who desired
perfection, and who rejoiced in the call to partake of the Kingdom
privileges, and gladly forsook all else for it. R2702:1
The better educated--the less morally lame and less spiritually
blind--rejected our Lord. R3834:2
Luke 14:22
Yet there is room -- Some came, but not enough to fill the places
already provided. R5415:5, 2301:2
About 500 accepted the invitation in our Lord's time and several thousand
more at Pentecost, while several thousand more responded further on. But,
in all, only a remnant of Israel was found worthy. R3834:2
"Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a
remnant [only] shall be saved." (Rom. 9:27) R2702:4, 2301:2
Luke 14:23
The servant -- The servant that calls the world is always the Christ,
either Head or Body, while the servant that guides the Christ is always
the holy Spirit. R343:1
Go out -- This third call is now nearly complete. Nearly all the places
at the table have been provided with guests, only a few are yet vacant.
R2702:4
Into the highways -- Into various parts of the world. R3834:3
We Gentiles were children of wrath, strangers from the commonwealth of
Israel. R343:1
For 1800 years the message has gone out. R5415:4
Because a sufficient number was not found in Israel to complete the elect
number, the message must be sent outside the city, outside of Judaism--to
the Gentiles. R2702:2, 2301:4, 1958:4, 5415:5, 343:1
Compel them -- The call was confined at first, during our Lord's
ministry, to Israel after the flesh; but now, as many as the servants of
God meet are to be urged to come to this special feast of favor. A195
Better rendered constrain or urge as in the Diaglott. The Lord never
compels the acceptance of his favors, but he does constrain by his love
and grace and promises those who love righteousness and truth. (2 Cor.
5:11,14,15) R1958:4, 2702:2; A195
Urge all that they met, up to a certain number, to come to the feast.
R3834:3
To come in -- Here is food to satisfy every longing, more and better
than we could ask or think, a spiritual feast of future good things--joys
and pleasures in the presence of the Lord. R343:1
To come to this feast involves a leaving of worldly hopes, aims and
pursuits. In proportion as earthly things are abandoned, each may feast
now. R343:1
May be filled -- We at once begin to enjoy and feast upon God's
bounteous provision; by hope and faith we have a joyful anticipation and
rich feast on the promises of God. R343:1
God, knowing the end from the beginning, had determined a definite number
to constitute the Church--144,000. R3834:2, 2301:4
Not a seat left vacant. R5415:5
The parable shows three classes called: (1) those of Israel striving to
keep the Law; (2) the publican and sinner class; (3) the Gentiles. R1958:1
Luke 14:24
None of those men -- Though, thank God! divine provision has arranged
for another banquet, which through the Kingdom, will be spread for all
nations, kindreds, tongues and peoples--"a feast of fat things." (Isa.
25:6-8) R5415:6, 3833:6
Luke 14:25
Went great multitudes -- According to the requirements of the Law, going

up to Jerusalem to keep the Feast of the Passover. R5425:3
Luke 14:26
And hate not -- Love me not more than. R1944:6, 2986:4

The word hate is apparently used in contrast with love. To be a disciple
of Christ means that we must love supremely the Lord and the principles
for which he stands, so that love for others would comparatively be
hatred. R5426:2
Signifies a cutting off of every love that would conflict with our love
for the Lord. Our earthly loves are to be counted as nothing in
comparison. R5426:2
There is a reasonableness in the hard terms of discipleship. Only those
willing to comply with such terms could properly be entrusted with the
great power, glory and honor which will be granted to the Kingdom class.
R5426:1
Our Lord evidently used this word to impress the thought that the terms of
discipleship are very rigid and exacting. Q782:4
His father and mother -- Jesus himself reproved the Pharisees for saying
that a son who would make a large present of money to the temple might
thereafter be excused from any responsibility to his parents in their
support. (Mark 7:10-13) R854:6
We cannot suppose that Jesus, who in his dying hour provided for his own
mother's care, taught neglect of parents. R854:6
And self, and popularity, worldly prosperity, honor of men and human
theories and systems. D268
And wife -- One of the apostles, under the influence of the Spirit of
Christ, said that a man should love his wife and cherish her as his own
body, and as the Lord loves and cherishes the Church (Eph. 5:25). Surely
he did not contradict the Master in this. R854:6
The Apostle wrote that any professing to be Jesus' disciples who neglect
and fail to provide for their own households are worse than infidels. (1
Tim. 5:8) R854:6
And brethren -- Does not mean that we should not love one another (John
13:35) and even our enemies (Matt. 5:44). Q782:4
His own life also -- Greek, psuche, soul, being. E336
Not in the sense of starving from neglect of the necessities of life.
R854:3
The present existence or being is under sentence of death anyway. The call
of this Gospel age is to lay down our lives in the Lord's service, as
living sacrifices. E336
Christ is to be enthroned in our hearts preeminent over all things, yea,
preeminent over self. With many this submission of self is the most
difficult proposition. R2986:2
Reverencing human theories and systems more than the Word of the Lord. D268
Cannot be my disciple -- Because few live up to these conditions.
Therefore few of the many called are chosen. The call was a genuine and
effectual call in every case; but the response of the called ones was
frequently insincere and ineffectual because they did not comply with the
conditions. R1310:4
These will not come out until Babylon falls and they come through the
"great tribulation." Such shall not be accounted worthy to share the
Kingdom. D268; HG718:5
The Master did not say that only his disciples could ever gain everlasting
life. For the time being he was merely inviting disciples, and not
attempting to reach the world. R5425:6
Luke 14:27
Whosoever doth not -- If we turn aside from the path of humiliation and
daily cross-bearing, and strive for present exaltation and preference, we
are forgetting the very conditions upon which the future exaltation
depends. R1988:2
Bear his cross -- Cross-bearing signifies endurance of trials,
difficulties, disappointments--the crossing of the human will and
preferences by circumstances and conditions permitted of the Father.
R3236:4
The taking up of the cross is done after we come to a knowledge of the
truth. R5223:2
None can gain glory and joint-heirship with Christ except by
cross-bearing. R1988:1
Bearing the cross does not mean running away from it, or getting alarmed
at it, but enduring it. R5223:4
Cross-bearing must be a daily matter. Our crosses are those oppositions of
the world, the flesh and the devil which conflict with the divine will as
laid down for us in the Lord's Word. R5426:4
The Master's cross-bearing did not consist in fighting the weaknesses of
the flesh, for he had none; nor are these weaknesses of the flesh our
crosses. R3237:2
Our faithfulness in cross-bearing consists in our willingness to stand up
for the truth and every principle of righteousness no matter what the cost
of friendships broken or enmities enkindled. R3237:3
The opposition of husband or wife, only if engendered by faithfulness to
the Lord; the endurance of opposition by business competitors because of
our faithfulness to Christ; but not the above for other reasons. R5223:3
The bearing of the cross is the way of growth in character for the
consecrated child of God. R5223:5 If we were in heaven, where all is in
full accord with the divine will, we could have no crosses from the time
that we fully consecrated to the Lord. R3236:4
The cross is to be not merely lifted, but carried faithfully unto death.
R5223:2
Come after me -- Walk in his footsteps, being first forgiven of sins.
Q367:3
Be my disciple -- One who follows a teacher or leader. R5223:1
Luke 14:28
To build a tower -- His followers should count the cost of discipleship

in the same cool, methodical, calculating manner in which they would count
the cost of the erection of a building. R3235:6
Counteth the cost -- Instead of urging everybody to become his disciples
and threatening them if they did not, the Master treated the subject in
the very opposite style. NS344:5
The Lord would not have any one take upon himself the responsibilities of
this relationship without due deliberation and forethought. R2072:1*,
5208:1
The Master does not deceive any to becoming his followers by assuring them
it would cost little or no sacrifice. R854:3
Jesus apparently reproved even a spirit of enthusiasm that might becloud
the cool judgment. They were not to be brought into the family of God by
prayers or excitement, but by the declaration of the divine terms and
conditions. R5454:5
Some count more rapidly than others. HG694:4
If we have a sufficient love for righteousness, truth, honorable and noble
principles of life to desire to glorify the Creator by following the paths
of righteousness, we will, after complete consideration, determine that
duty calls to a full self-surrender. NS450:4
It is fortunate for us that at the outstart we do not, cannot, estimate or
appreciate the full meaning of the words cross-bearing. Doubtless few of
us would have the courage to make the consecration and the start. R3236:5
Important because, as with Jesus, the trial, temptation and testing of
loyalty comes more particularly after consecration than before. R4970:1
"Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and be baptized
with the baptism that I am baptized with?" (Matt. 20:22) R2072:2*; NS770:3
But if you can afford it, the investment will bring good returns. One
would not be certain of success in any earthly venture who did not apply
time, means, heart and mind to the acquiring of his object. Can less be
expected of him who lives for God? R108:4*
God had a well-defined plan in his own mind before it found expression in
the slightest development. The great Architect of the universe first
counted the cost, and reckoned that all should culminate to his honor and
glory. R421:2, 338:1
Whether to trust to the Lord's promised aid to enable him to overcome, or
to forfeit his justification, "receive the grace of God in vain."
(2Cor. 6:1) F126; R5454:5
"Better is it that thou shouldest not vow than that thou shouldest vow and
not pay." (Eccl. 5:5) "It is a snare to a man to make inquiry after
[having made] vows." (Prov. 20:25) R2081:1*, 4238:2
The putting aside of all earthly ambition or honor to be counted as loss
or dross in contrast with God's glorious promises. R4975:4
Intelligently and freely; with due deliberation and forethought. R2072:1*
We make no impassioned appeal for one to become a follower of Christ, but
do earnestly urge the importance of decision. R5614:6
All who espouse the cause of Christ should do so with a full, clear
understanding and a fixed determination not even to look back. R5426:5
Sufficient to finish it -- It would be better not to take up the cross
unless we have the determination to do so unto the end. If you take up the
cross, it is to be not merely lifted, but carried faithfully unto death.
R5223:2
In harmony with this, we oppose so-called "Revival" methods. R4238:4
Those who, having made a consecration, decline to exercise faith in the
Lord's promised aid, and refuse or neglect to go on to perform their
"reasonable service" by making their consecration complete, unto death,
have been favored of the Lord in vain. (2 Cor. 6:1) F126
Luke 14:30
Not able to finish -- We may rest assured that our Father's original
plan will be carried out to the letter. A65, 66, 95; E34; R1560:2
Luke 14:31
And consulteth -- Going to war without adequate preparation would result

disastrously. R5426:4
Whoever enlists under the banner of Jesus takes his stand against Satan
and sin, and must expect to have a hard battle. He must not expect to
receive the victor's crown except by faithful perseverance in well-doing.
R5426:5
Whether he be able -- Else they will not be persevering enough, nor
zealous enough, to "fight the good fight of faith" and overcome.
(1 Tim. 6:12) R3236:1
It is well that we count the cost and see our own weakness, littleness and
inability to cope with and to vanquish the world, the Adversary and our
own imperfect flesh. NS174:3
Luke 14:33
Forsaketh not all -- This does not mean merely to forsake all forms of
sin. No one has a right to commit sin, whether he be Christ's disciple or
anybody's disciple. That is taken for granted. NS172:5
The conditions of fellowship with Christ in the heavenly Kingdom are
nothing less than the sacrifice of every earthly interest, and earthly
life as well, in his service. But this service and sacrifice is a
reasonable service, and never implies that we must become paupers to make
others affluent. R855:1
In contrast, the Israelite was to consider one-tenth of what he had as
holy unto the Lord. Likewise, the Jew gave God one-seventh of his time,
but the Christian is to give him seven-sevenths. HG538:1*
Present all these things unreservedly to God, and yield yourself as his
servant also--reckon yourself God's steward, commissioned by him to use
all those goods, as well as all your personal talents, to his glory. Think
not of these goods henceforth as your own, and talk not about giving them
again to the Lord; for once given, they are his forever. R855:1
Remove from your pathway at once every hindrance and stumbling-block which
the Adversary may put in your way, and keep right on running for the prize
of the high calling, keeping your eye on Jesus and Paul as examples of
endurance and overcoming. R758:5
We are to give all in as direct a way as we can, and the remainder is to
be given in a more indirect way. We give him the money we spend for food
and clothing because our body belongs to him and is being used to glorify
and serve him. Food gives us strength to do more for him; therefore the
money we spend for food is being spent for our Lord. HG583:1*
The abandonment of earthly aims, hopes and ambitions and the substituting
for these of heavenly hopes and ambitions which would transform the mind
by renewing it. NS172:1
How different from that easy-going Christianity which seems but little
removed from the spirit of the world. A zeal which strives, runs, fights
and watches with sober vigilance is generally regarded as extreme,
peculiar, fanatical and foolish. R2123:2
Not one professed Christian in a hundred has reached this standard.
HG555:5, 734:2*
Whoever will not submit to be "salted with fire." (Verse 34) R508:4*
Cannot be my disciple -- Modern theology is forced to conclude from this
that all who do not make this utter sacrifice of every earthly interest
are sure to be consigned to eternal torment. R4551:2,3,4, 3236:2
Discipleship would require a growing faith which would rise to every
emergency of his requirement. R1967:2
Discipleship requires nothing less than a full, complete consecration.
R2071:6*
True disciples make progress in the school of Christ, overcoming the
spirit of the world. 1967:2
Luke 14:34
Salt is good -- Salt has preservative qualities, brings out the flavor
in food, and in olden times was used as a symbol of faithfulness and
loyalty. Jesus used it as a symbol of his own loyalty to God and that
which followers must have and maintain. R5426:5
A healthful, cleansing, preserving element in the midst of a world of
moral decay and sinful pollution. R2073:2*
Several of the oldest and best manuscripts (among which are the Sinaitic
and Vatican) insert after the word salt, the word then; connecting this
verse to the preceding verses. R508:3*
Lost his savour -- If we are clinging to the world, worldly ways,
worldly thoughts and worldly associations, then the salt is losing its
savor, if it has not already lost it. R508:4*
Luke 14:35
Neither fit for the land -- It will not serve as a fertilizer, for it
has an opposite effect. R5426:5
For the dunghill -- Absolutely useless, except for its intended purpose.
So the Christian has a special purpose in the world--to be a preservative
power, having antiseptic qualities to draw out all the good qualities of
those with whom he is connected. R5426:5
Men cast it out -- Good for nothing, unsavory salt! castaways from
divine favor, and left to be trodden under foot of men! R2073:2
Ears to hear -- Few have the ear to hear the Lord's message--few are so
out of accord with sin, shame and ungodliness as to desire to escape from
these and to come into full sympathy and accord with the Prince of Light
at this present time. NS173:1
Let him hear -- All followers are to take heed to these words. Whoever
neglects them despises the one who gave them, and will surely fail of a
blessing that might otherwise have been secured. R5426:6, R1958:4, 2702:2;
A195
The call was confined at first, during our Lord's ministry, to Israel
after the flesh; but now, as many as the servants of God meet are to be
urged to come to this special feast of favor. A195
Urge all that they met, up to a certain number, to come to the feast.
R3834:3
The ear of faith must be attuned to the melodies of divine truth if the
soul would catch its blessed inspiration. R1945:1
Luke 15
Luke 15:1
Publicans -- The publicans were Jews who had become somewhat estranged
to their laws and to the patriotic sentiments of the nation, and who
accepted service under the Romans as tax-gatherers. R3360:2
Being cast off from the sympathies and friendship of the Jews in general,
they were naturally less influenced by their prejudices and hence more
ready to receive the truth. R1783:3
And sinners -- The sinners were the more or less immoral, who made no
professions of keeping the Mosaic Law, observances of the more sacred
rites and ceremonies, holy days, etc. R3360:2
Luke 15:2
Pharisees and scribes -- The scribes and the Pharisees held themselves
aloof from the common people--the scribes, because the masses were
illiterate; and the Pharisees, under the claim that the people were
sinners, cut off from relationship to God. R5426:3
Whose holiness was of a hypocritical character, delighting in outward show
rather than in purity and holiness of heart. R2706:2
They refused to acknowledge others as brethren and fellow-heirs of the
divine promises. R2706:2
Murmured -- Whatever did not harmonize with their standards they could
only contest. Their difficulty in part was that they had too high an
opinion of themselves. R5426:6
For his having anything to do with the disreputable backsliders. R1460:1
Their view was earthly, selfish, proud, haughty, not pleasing to God.
R5427:2
Receiveth sinners -- His superior knowledge did not make him haughty,
and his superior righteousness did not make him proud and unsympathetic.
R5426:3
This inclined them to repudiate Jesus, whom they would have been glad to
have had as one of their number if he had been willing to be known as a
Pharisee and to conform to their customs. R2706:2
When they found that he received sinners, they began to realize that his
righteousness was a different sort from theirs, and, as darkness is
opposed to light, they hated him. R1460:1
There was a measure of truth in the assertion of the Pharisees that the
majority of people were living in sin, neglecting the divine Law, and thus
living much after the manner of the Gentiles. R3360:1
But the Pharisees, accustomed to thinking of themselves as the holier
class of the Jews, had gradually separated themselves from the lower
elements of the people, so that in our Lord's time the two classes mingled
very little. R2706:2
Publicans and harlots were not made the subjects of special missionary
efforts. It was when these classes came to his ministry, manifested
interest therein and signs of repentance and reformation, that he received
them cordially. R2414:2
Bible Students should always seek to view the jewels of the Lord's Word in
the settings in which they have been placed. To neglect this is to lose a
portion of the lesson intended. R5426:3
Even his disciples were shocked that he should converse with a woman of
Samaria. (John 4:27) CR125:3
There is no intimation that our Lord went "slumming" after them. R2414:2
Luke 15:3
Spake this parable -- By way of reproof to the murmuring of the

Pharisees and scribes, to correct their wrong ideas. R1958:2, 2706:2
Luke 15:4
What man of you -- Representing the Lord Jesus, the Good Shepherd (John
10:11), as the representative of the Father, the Great Shepherd (Psa.
23:1). R2706:5, 5427:2
An hundred sheep -- Representing the entire family of God. R3798:4
A sheep, a docile creature, always represents one who wills to be in
harmony with God and in the fold. A goat is the Lord's symbol for the
wayward and willful. R1216:3
One of them -- The one stray sheep represents Adam and his family.
R5427:2, 3835:2, 3798:4, 2706:3, 1217:1
The race was lost, not merely a few, the Church; and their recovery is to
include all that was lost. R5427:4
The lost sheep, which originally was represented in one (Adam and Eve), in
its recovery will be represented by hundreds of millions of the redeemed
and restored of mankind. R2707:2
To suppose it to represent the degraded element of humanity and the
ninety-nine sheep a holiness class would be inconsistent because "There is
none righteous, no not one" (Rom. 3:10), and "We all like sheep have gone
astray" (Isa. 53:6); the illustration would be inapt because it is only a
small minority that are in a condition of harmony with Jehovah. R2706:3
Representing Adam and the human family. "All we like sheep have gone
astray." (Isa. 53:6) "There is none righteous, no not one." (Rom. 3:10)
R2706:3, 5427:2, 3835:2, 3798:4, 1217:1
Doth not leave -- Leaving them well cared for by under-shepherds in the
wilds (not in a desert). R2706:3
Representing our Lord Jesus, leaving the glory which he had with the
Father before the world was, and coming into human conditions in the
interest of mankind. R2706:3, 1217:1
The ninety and nine -- Just persons, needing no repentance, representing
the holy angels. R5427:2, 2706:3, 1217:1
In the wilderness -- The true Church is the Church in the wilderness,
separate from the world, and under divine protection and guidance. R1841:6
And go -- Representing the Lord's first advent. R2706:5
That which is lost -- Our Lord did not deny that the publicans and
sinners were in the wrong and in some respects further estranged from God
than were the Pharisees, but he wanted the latter to see that they should
not feel so indifferent toward their brethren. R3360:3
Lost, as used in connection with mankind, has quite a different meaning in
the Bible from that commonly given it in modern theology. R2706:1
"The Son of Man is come to seek and to save [recover] that which was
lost." (Luke 19:10) R5427:4
Until he find it -- His mercy will pursue the lost sheep until every
member of Adam's race shall have been brought to a knowledge of the truth
and to a full opportunity of returning to the fold of God. R5427:3
Any who, after being found and rescued by the Shepherd, follow him not,
but prefer to follow Satan, will no longer be counted the Lord's sheep;
for his sheep are those who hear his voice and follow him. R1217:1
Restore it to its original condition--restitution. R2706:5
How much am I sacrificing of my time and strength in going after the lost
sheep? R5427:5
All the willing and obedient. R5427:4
Until every member of Adam's race shall have been brought to a knowledge
of the truth, and an opportunity of returning to the fold of God. R5427:3
An illustration of the divine care. R2706:3
Luke 15:5
When he hath found it -- Already the sheep is found, in the sense of

being located; indeed, in that sense of the word it was not lost. It will
require the entire Millennial age to bring back the sheep in the full,
perfect sense of the parable. R2706:5
Having restored to perfection all of the human family who possess sheep
characteristics. R2707:2
Recovered, brought back, by process of restitution. (Acts 3:19-21) R2706:5
Rejoicing -- Illustrates the attitude of God and the holy angels. R5427:1
Luke 15:6
He cometh home -- Bringing the lost back to the fold--to fellowship with
God and the enjoyment of his favor, everlasting life. R3835:2
Not that all will be universally and everlastingly saved, but that all
will be brought to conditions of salvation, to a clear knowledge of the
truth and to a full opportunity for accepting the same. R3798:4
We do not yet see the sheep recovered. We do see God selecting the members
of the Good Shepherd to prepare to join in this work of seeking the lost
sheep during the Millennial age. R2706:5, 1217:1
According to orthodoxy, eternal torment; but from the Scriptural
standpoint, having wandered from God into sin and degradation. R2706:2
The fall of man and our imperfections to not stand as a bar if we return
to God, who will abundantly pardon. R5427:1
Luke 15:7
Joy shall be in heaven -- They have a special feeling of interest in

those who have strayed, and especially rejoice in the recovery of such.
R5427:1
In proportion as we become Godlike we have an interest in
sinners--especially in those who, through heredity or evil environment,
are more deeply steeped in sin, ignorance and superstition. R5427:3
Like the angels' song in Luke 2:13,14, this shows how the angels of God
are interested in the affairs of men, and how they sympathize with us and
rejoice over our prosperity. R1478:6
That repenteth -- All mankind, in coming back to God, must come back
repentantly, and there is joy in heaven over all the human family as they
come back in harmony with God and in harmony with righteousness. Q510:T
Whether he come back now under the condition of the Gospel call, or
whether he shall come back in the next age under Messiah's Kingdom. Q510:T
The interest is in the repentant one or in the one who has not sinned
beyond repentance. Any sheep, having been found by the Shepherd, and then
preferring the wolfish, would no longer be interesting to the heavenly
ones. R5427:2
What, then, will be the joy in heaven when the Body of Christ is received
into glory? R1821:3
Ninety and nine just persons -- The angels of heaven, alone, would seem
to fit this description, as being just persons who need no repentance.
Q510:T
Luke 15:8
Ten pieces of silver -- Prized as a marriage memento. R3360:3

It was the custom among Jewish women to wear on the forehead a fringe of
coin bangles. These might be of gold or silver, and sometimes represented
her dowry. R5427:4
The women of those times usually wore a bracelet on which was fastened ten
coins. Such a bracelet was generally the gift of the bridegroom at the
time of marriage, and each piece associated with it was highly esteemed by
its wearer. R3835:3, 2707:2
Each had stamped upon it, as is the custom with coin, a certain image or
likeness. And so all the sons of God, including angels and archangels, are
made in the image and likeness of God. It was one of these that was
lost--the human one, man. R2707:3
The human piece, mankind--the dirt floor of the home representing the
defilements which have obscured the divine likeness ever since man's fall.
R2707:4
Lose one piece -- Representing more than its intrinsic value; its loss
marred the beauty of the whole. R5427:4
Sweep the house -- The lighting of the candle and the diligently
sweeping represent the work of God through the Christ, which will be
accomplished by the end of the Millennial age. R2707:4
Seek diligently -- An illustration of divine energy on behalf of lost
humanity. R2707:3
Not that the woman represents divine energy. Q739:2
Till she find it -- "That which was lost." (Luke 19:10) R2707:4, 5427:4
Luke 15:9
And when -- At the end of the Millennial age. R2707:4

Rejoice with me -- Representing the time coming when all things in
heaven and on earth will rejoice in the full accomplishment of the Lord's
work. R2707:5
Which I had lost -- The Scriptures use the word "lost" in reference to
the original loss, and not at all in respect to those who will be
destroyed in the second death--the latter are not said to be lost; they
cease to exist. R2707:3
Luke 15:10
There is joy -- We are sure that the angels in heaven rejoice to see the
lengths and breadths and heights and depths of the love of God as
exhibited toward his fallen creatures. R3631:5
This must be the attitude of the Lord's people today, a feeling of loving
interest in the recovery of others from sin, and a disposition to assist
them back to harmony with God. R2707:5
Over one sinner -- The great time of rejoicing will come at the close of
the Millennial age; but now, in advance, all the heavenly host rejoices in
every evidence of the accomplishment of the great work. R2707:5 The
manufacturer should ask himself, To what extent am I allowing the
accumulation of coin to interfere with the giving of proper protection to
my employees and all for whose welfare I have a responsibility? R5427:5
Each Christian should ask himself, How much of my time am I giving in
helping my fellow-men out of their difficulties and trials back to God?
R5427:5
Luke 15:11
And he said -- Seeking, in this parable, to show the Pharisees that

their position respecting the publicans and sinners was wrong. R5434:6
A certain man -- Evidently representing Jehovah God. R5435:1, 3360:3,
2708:1
Had two sons -- Originally all the Jews entered into covenant
relationship with God, and thus became, typically, his sons. R1460:1
Cannot represent Jews and Gentiles or Little Flock and Great Company.
R1459:3
While illustrating the two classes into which the Jewish nation divided
itself, the principles set forth in the parable are more generally
applicable. R5435:4, 2708:1
Luke 15:12
And the younger -- Representing the publicans and sinners. R3836:1

Representing the common people, not so strict in their ideals. They were
known to others, and acknowledged by themselves, as publicans and
sinners--not attempting to live godly lives. R5435:1, 3836:1, 3360:3,
2708:1, 1958:2, 1459:6, 1460:1; PD60/72; Q554:7
Representing, in a secondary sense, all the remainder of mankind outside
of those few in Israel who were seeking to do the Father's will. R2708:4
There is still the Lazarus class, the returned prodigal class, to which
the Father is pleased to grant riches of grace, the robe of righteousness,
the feast of fat things and the ring, symbolizing his eternal love and
mercy. R3836:2
Gentiles cannot have been meant or illustrated by the prodigal son, for
they had never been sons, and could not have left the Father's house when
they were never in it. R1459:3
The class of today described by Rom. 1:21,22, 24,26,28,29. R3361:1
Give me the portion -- It was the custom that the elder son should
inherit the principle part of the estate if he chose to remain at home.
The younger sons were usually given some portion and allowed to embark in
some other business or profession. R3835:3
He divided unto them -- They were inheritors together of certain
wonderful blessings and promises. R2708:1
Not that the father unwisely retained nothing to himself, but that he gave
a reasonable individual portion to each son, retaining the remainder,
which, however, was intended for the elder son, if faithful, at the
father's death. R3835:3
A man's estate is his stewardship from the Lord, and while children may be
properly recognized in this stewardship, the responsibility of a Christian
should extend beyond his own immediate offspring, while including them.
R3835:5
Luke 15:13
The younger son -- Careless of spiritual privileges and opportunities,

estranged from God. PD60/72; R5435:1, 3360:2
Took his journey -- The publicans and sinners should have been glad to
remain under divine protection and care and to have enjoyed the Father's
house and all of its blessings. R3360:4
A far country -- Afar from God, in sin and disregard of the Law. R2708:1
Satan may be said to be master of this far country--afar from God, his
love, protection and care. R3360:4
From one standpoint, nearly the whole world of mankind is still in a far
country, in the land of the enemy, under the blinding influences of the
god of this world. R3361:1
Riotous living -- As a matter of fact, while the one had preserved and
the other had wasted his inheritance, neither had rightly valued all that
was implied in their share of the inheritance of Israel; and while the one
had grievously sinned, neither was the other without sin. R1958:2
Misused their privileges and opportunities as members of the nation of
Israel, their inheritance in the Law Covenant. R5435:1, 2708:1, 1958:2;
Q554:7
Luke 15:14
In that land -- In a foreign land, of which Satan is the master.

R3835:5, 3360:4
To be in want -- The publicans and sinners felt their degradation. They
were spiritually hungry. They were ragged. R5435:1
Sin always brings misery in some form, and often in many forms. R1460:2
In slavery to sin and receiving sin's wages: discontent, unhappiness,
heart-aches, body-aches. R2708:2
"The way of transgressors is hard." (Prov. 13:15) R2708:1
Luke 15:15
Swine -- Representing the worldly, those engrossed in the things of the

present time and wholly indifferent to spiritual matters. R3360:4
Luke 15:16
With the husks -- Why dost thou toil among the husks of mammon, when to
his rest the Father bids thee come? R1460:6*
The swine did eat -- There was a difference between him and the swine,
for while the swine could fill their bellies on the bean pods of the
locust or carob tree, the prodigal found it hard to subsist on that diet.
R3360:5
No man gave -- He was in an attitude of want, of hunger, of
dissatisfaction, discontent; a condition of sin and receiving sin's wages.
R2708:2
Luke 15:17
He came to himself -- Sin and degradation have brought unreason,

unbalanced judgment, and have made the good to appear bad, the light to
appear darkness, and the true to appear false, and contrariwise. R3361:6
He realized that he had been insane, stupid, dreaming, when he left so
gracious a father's house and so great blessings as he had once enjoyed.
R3360:5
Awakening to his dire necessities, remembering his father's abundance,
realizing how stupid he had been to leave it. R5435:6, 3360:5
Thoroughly disgusted with his condition. R2708:2
It is of divine providence that our eyes open to see our need and our
loss. R3361:6
Hunger -- Starving for any satisfying portion, for the blessings of the
home he had left. R3360:4,5
Luke 15:18
I will arise -- The first thing that he did was to resolve to will, and
then he proceeded to do. The willing would have amounted to nothing had it
not been followed by the doing, but the doing could not have preceded the
willing. R3360:5
It was the will of the elder son which for a time kept him in his father's
house; it was the will of the prodigal that led him forth. Likewise, it
was his own will that led him to retrace his steps; and it was only the
will of the elder son that hindered him from entering in to the joys of
the festal occasion. R2708:4
Being a despised and cast-out class, the publicans and sinners were ready
to appreciate the love and kindness of the Lord. R1958:5
And go -- Arise and go, before thy doubts shall harden. R1460:6*
Return in all thy rags of sin's defilement; return with all thy want and
sore distress; thy Father's voice bespeaks his reconcilement: flee to his
breast, and there thy guilt confess. R1460:3*
To my father -- The proper attitude of all repentant ones--reliance upon
the love and mercy of the Heavenly Father and the provision which he has
made in Christ Jesus for the forgiveness of sins and for reception again
to his love and care. R5435:6
I have sinned -- God evidently wishes to have a class honest enough to
acknowledge their own imperfections and their own unworthiness of his
favors. R5435:5
The publicans and sinners realized in a large measure their own
unworthiness, and sometimes smote upon their breasts saying, "God be
merciful to be a sinner." (Luke 18:13) R3836:1
Luke 15:19
Thy hired servants -- Not expecting to be an inheritor, not hoping to be

received as a son. R2708:2
Luke 15:20
Came to his father -- With contrition of heart, and full confession of

his error. R3362:4
Those who received Jesus' message included not many great, wise or noble,
but chiefly penitent prodigals. PD60/72
The first returning prodigal under the new dispensation will be the poor
Jew. R3361:2
Jesus represented the Father's house to the younger-son class. R5435:1
A great way off -- In our Father's name, he would have us meet them,
while they are yet a long way off, and encourage their return with
assurances of a hearty welcome and a blessed feast. R1958:6
His father saw him -- His elder brother, represented by the Pharisees,
was not on the lookout for him; but the father, representing God, saw him
a long way off--was looking for him. R3360:5
The time when the father accepted the prodigal was at Pentecost. R5435:2
Had compassion -- The prodigal must will and strive to return, but the
Father will meet him on the way to encourage him, receive him, bless him,
and bring him into all the glorious things which he has in reservation for
them who love him. R3361:6
And ran -- Lest he should be discouraged in his fearfulness. R3360:5
Fell on his neck -- Nothing in this parable shows the necessity for the
ransom. It is evidently therefore the picture of the return of a
backslidden son, and not that of the redemption of a condemned stranger
and alien. R1460:5
How this must have touched the hearts of the publicans who heard--to think
that God was willing to receive them back again, not to spurn them as the
Pharisees did! R2708:2
This loving, helpful spirit is the spirit which the Lord would have all
his people exercise toward even the most degraded of men who manifest any
disposition to forsake sin and return to the right ways of the Lord.
R1958:6
Kissed him -- The seal of our reconciliation, the mark of our adoption
into the divine family. R1460:5
The seal of the Father's love. R1958:6
His reception was as though he had never sinned. R3360:5
Not only were the publicans and sinners pardoned, but because of their
penitence, they were granted special manifestations of God's favor. R5435:2
We are glad that our Heavenly Father gives us and our brothers and sisters
and children opportunities to recover themselves after they have wandered
into sin; opportunities to profit by the lessons of life and the sad
experience of being aliens from God. R3361:4
The seal of our reconciliation and our adoption into the divine family,
first applied at Pentecost. R1460:4, 5435:2
Luke 15:21
I have sinned -- Let him not return in any self-righteous, self-excusing

attitude of mind. He must go back as did the prodigal, with contrition of
heart, full confession of error and a willingness to take the very lowest
place in the Father's family as a servant. R3362:4
Luke 15:22
The best robe -- The robe of Christ's righteousness, justification.

(Isa. 61:10) R3836:1, 3361:5, 1958:6, 1460:4
The robe and all the blessings are provided through Christ as a covering
for all the imperfections of the fallen nature. R5435:2
Replacing the filthy rags of our unrighteousness. R1460:4
A ring -- Representing the witness of the spirit that we are sons and
heirs. R1460:4
As a signet of his everlasting mercy, forgiveness and love, the
Pentecostal blessing. R3836:1
A symbol of unending divine favor. R1958:6
Shoes on his feet -- Preparing us for the sharp contact often to be
experienced from the beggarly elements of the present evil world. R1460:4
Luke 15:23
The fatted calf -- The feast of fat things provided for the sinners in
Israel corresponds to the feast to be opened ultimately to the whole world
of mankind under the Kingdom. (Isa. 25:6-8) R2708:4, 5435:2, 3836:1
Let us eat -- The feast and merry-making represent the blessed promises
of God and are the marriage-feast represented in another of our Lord's
parables. (Matt. 22:2-14) R5435:3
God provides a "feast," a blessing which all may share, if they will.
PD60/72
Represents the blessed promises of God to those covered by the robe of
Christ's righteousness and begotten by the holy Spirit. R5435:3
Luke 15:24
Was dead -- Having died to the privileges of his father's house, just
the same as sinners are dead in trespasses and sins; so this son was dead
to father, to home and every interest--a figurative situation in the Word.
HG205:6
Is alive again -- The parable ignores the second death. The son that was
lost was lost in his going away into sin, and not lost in eternal torment.
He was found in his return to God. He was dead, so far as the Father was
concerned, when he was away; but he was alive again when he willingly
returned. R2708:4
How grandly this illustrates to us the lengths and breadths and heights
and depths of the love of God. R5435:2, 3361:5
Luke 15:25
His elder son -- Representing those who sat in Moses' seat and who
remained loyal to God in their outward profession, at least, and in their
endeavors outwardly to keep his Law. R5435:1, 2708:1
The Pharisees and Doctors of the Law, who outwardly and theoretically were
in harmony with God. R3835:6, 3360:3, 1958:2
Who customarily inherited the principal part of the estate if he remained
at home with his father. R3835:3
The Pharisees and all who had respect unto their inheritance in the Law
Covenant. R1958:2
The Pharisees, strict observers of God's Law, but proud, boastful,
self-righteous. R1459:6, 3360:1, 1958:3, 1460:2
The Pharisaical class delighted to proclaim that they were the heirs of
God's favor. R3360:2
Was in the field -- Striving by daily obedience to the Law to remain at
home with God. R3835:6
The elder brother, representing the Pharisees, was not on the lookout for
his brother. R3360:5
In spiritual Israel there is a similar class--some who are self-righteous
and self-confident, moral and religious, but who, like the Pharisees, lack
the spirit of love to appreciate the Father's conduct. R3836:2
There are noble characters in the world who love to do right; nevertheless
not many of this kind may be expected to be of the Kingdom class--not
because God is unwilling, but their noble qualities make them less ready
to accept the terms. R5435:4
This better class seem to feel that, in contrast with the lower strata of
society, they are perfection itself, and that God would be sure to desire
them. R5435:5
Luke 15:28
He was angry -- How true to the facts was this picture of the Pharisees
objecting to his telling those poor prodigals about the love of God and
his willingness to forgive them, and to welcome them back home again.
R1460:2
There are two ways of departing from the Father--open sin and wantonness,
or a failure to attain the divine likeness in our hearts. There is more
hope for those gone into sin returning to God than of some who, while
outwardly moral and religious, fail to acquire the Lord's spirit of love
and mercy. R3836:2
Lacked the spirit of love and hence was not at all prepared for the feast.
R3836:1, 5435:3
Likewise the elder-brother class of Jews did not show the right spirit.
R5435:3
The Pharisees were bitter, instead of being glad, to find the people
hungering for God's Word. Q554:7
The attitude of the Pharisees--complaining, disappointed, offended,
self-righteous, scorning the returning prodigal, angry with the Father
because of his goodness. R2708:2, 3835:6, 3360:6, 1958:6
Today the message of restitution for a "groaning creation" (Rom. 8:22) is
received in much the same manner. R2708:6
All who are in harmony with God will rejoice to see sinners returning to
divine favor. Any other spirit will surely work injury, as it did to the
Pharisees, who, as a class, were unfit in their selfishness to share the
blessings God had or ever will have to offer. R1460:5
Would not go in -- They were blameworthy in that they were proud of
their religion and boasted of their goodness; and because they despised
and spurned and would not recognize, nor speak to, nor eat with, the
irreligious class. R1459:6
While the Pharisees were really in the most favorable position to receive
the blessing, being schooled in the Law, the publicans and sinners were
going into the kingdom before them simply because this "elder son" class
had cultivated a spirit of pride and boastfulness. R1958:3
Jesus said, if you stay out, then you will stay out, for God is receiving
the prodigals. Q555:T
The loss would be theirs, the gain would be that of the more humble
minded. R3360:6, 2708:3
They thus showed that they lacked a very important quality of heart--they
lacked the spirit of loving kindness, and hence were not at all prepared
for the feast. R3836:1
The jealous spirit on the part of the Pharisees apparently kept many of
them from appreciating the gift of God in Christ--they refused to enter
in. R5435:3
As they were not in the right attitude of heart to receive their repentant
brethren, neither would they have been in the right attitude of heart to
be the Lord's instruments of general blessing in his Kingdom. R2708:3
"Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, for ye shut up the
kingdom of heaven against men; for ye neither go in yourselves, neither
suffer ye them that are entering to go in." (Matt. 23:13) R1460:5
As in the parable of the marriage feast (Matt. 22:2-10), those who were
originally bidden appreciated it not, dishonoring the host. R5435:4
Poor, self-righteous Pharisees! Their jealous spirit kept them from
appreciating the gift of God in Christ. To this day they will not go in.
R5435:3, 1460:4 Refusing to enter into the joys of the occasion. R3835:6,
3360:6
If they would not share the Father's hospitalities with the prodigal, they
could not share them at all. R3360:6
There are similar classes among spiritual Israel now: the self-righteous,
self-confident, moral and religious, but without love; and the returned
prodigals to whom the Father grants riches of grace, mercy and truth.
R3836:2
All who participate in the Gospel feast must come in under the Father's
terms. R3360:6
Much the same spirit is manifested now by the outwardly religious, as they
hear of the coming Times of Restitution, in which all the degraded of
earth may return to the Father's love. R3361:1,5
Luke 15:29
Do I serve thee -- The elder son represents the class which, having
respect to the promises, enjoys the blessings at home with the Father, and
is in fellowship with God as his people. R2708:1
Luke 15:30
This thy son -- Declining to call the prodigal "brother." R2708:3
Luke 15:31
Is thine -- Is for thee; may be yours if you will have it so. R3835:6
Luke 15:32
It was meet -- The Lord showed them that they were angry with the Father
because of his goodness. R3360:6
This thy brother -- In contrast with the elder brother who said, "this
thy son." R2708:3
Was dead -- So far as the father was concerned, when he was away. R2708:4
Is alive again -- When he willingly returned. R2708:4
Was lost -- In his going away into sin; not lost in eternal torment.
R2708:4
And is found -- His return to God--the younger brother class realizing
their need of forgiveness and help. R2708:4, 5435:5
Luke 16
Luke 16:1
He said -- As a rebuke to the spirit of the Pharisees, who bound heavy

burdens on others but themselves shirked them, while pretending hearty
obedience to the Law. R5436:2
Perhaps no other parable has been so helpful to the poor and needy, the
sinful and the weak who have a desire to return from the ways of sin and
be received back into the family of God. They see themselves in this
parable and are encouraged by its representing the Father as willing to
receive them. R5435:5
As well as to the Pharisees at the same table. R2715:3; Q724:9
Unto his disciples -- The parable was primarily addressed to Jesus'
disciples, in the presence of the Pharisees. R5386:3
The fourth in a series of parables, representing the unwisdom of the
Pharisee class in hypocritically pretending to others that they kept the
Law and were acceptable stewards, whereas they themselves were well aware
that they came short of fulfilling their stewardship, and must therefore
be rejected from it; the parable points out to them a proper course, which
they did not take. R2717:3
A steward -- You sit in Moses' seat. R5386:4; Q725:7
Representing Moses and the Law Covenant of which Moses, as Mediator, was
the original steward, and the scribes and Pharisees now the steward, as
Moses' representative. R2715:3
Corresponding to the elder son of the preceding parable, and to the rich
man of the succeeding parable. R2715:3
Such a steward had as absolute control of his master's goods as had the
master himself; he had, as it were, the power of attorney. R5436:2,
2715:6, 1626:3; Q724:9
Today a class corresponding to those who sat in Moses' seat sit in
Christ's seat, as respects the Gospel Church. This class is composed of
elders, Sunday School teachers, superintendents, ministers, bishops,
archbishops, etc. R2716:5
The consecrated are merely stewards of their time, talents, influence,
wealth, etc. R5436:5
His goods -- "The oracles of God" (Rom. 3:2), the knowledge of God, with
typical justification and at-one-ment with him, and an interest in the
promises made to the fathers. R2715:3
Luke 16:2
Give an account -- The scribes and Pharisees should have sought to win
the love and gratitude of their Jewish brethren. R5749:6
Thou mayest be no longer -- A new dispensation is about to be ushered
in. R2715:6, 2716:2,5; Q726:1
You scribes and Pharisees are near the end of your term. R5386:4
God knew when he gave them the stewardship that they were weak through the
fall, and incompetent. He knew they would fail to keep the Law perfectly.
He fully intended in due time to depose them from the stewardship and give
it to the one whom he had foreknown--to Messiah. R2715:3
We should not be surprised if the priests and ministers will suffer more
distress in the great trouble time than will the people, because of their
having hoodwinked the people. The Catholic priests suffered terribly at
the time of the French Revolution, which was a picture on a small scale of
the approaching great cataclysm. R5750:2
Nominal church clergy and leaders will particularly suffer because they
have failed to conserve the interests which they pretend to serve. R5750:4
Luke 16:3
Then the steward -- The Lord proceeds to show what a literal steward in
olden times would have done under such circumstances. R2715:6, 2716:6
What shall I do? -- Encourage your brethren to do the best they can.
R5386:4
A wise steward would be alert to his own future welfare. It would be wise
for the steward, in consideration of his own interests, to keep the future
good will of the man, and let him pay half. R5386:3
Yourselves not being able to pay the divine requirements of the Law, you
scribes and Pharisees should feel sympathetic with the poor Jews who keep
it only partially. R5386:3, 2716:2; Q726:1
The proper course for the nominal church steward class would be to
candidly confess the errors of the creeds and their own failure to
properly use "the oracles of God." (Heb. 5:12) R2716:6
Am ashamed -- Conscientious preachers know not what to do. R5154:4
Luke 16:4
Resolved what to do -- Scale off the debts of those who could not pay
all. R5436:3
Luke 16:6
Write fifty -- So that the debtors probably could pay before he turned
over his office to his successor. R5436:3
He minimized their accounts, as he had a right to do. In olden times a
steward had the right to make contracts, etc., for his master. So this
steward cut down the accounts and made friends of the people. R5749:6
Today bankruptcy laws similarly release debtors from obligations which
they could not pay; and similarly, creditors, in their own interest, agree
to accept sixty percent or some other portion of the original sum as the
whole of a debt. R2716:1
The Jewish Jubilee year of full release from all debts was along the same
line of leniency and wise business policy represented in the "Bankruptcy
Law" of today. R2716:1
If he had waited until he was put out of the stewardship, he could not
have reduced the bill. Q725:3
As exponents of the Law, it was with them to say whether this thing should
be a very severe application of the Law, or a very slack application of
the Law; and Jesus said they went to the extreme of exacting the very last
item and exaggerating the Law to the people. Q725:7
You ought to feel sympathetic with some of these poor Jews who cannot keep
the Law. You should say to them, Cut it down somewhat--keep half the Law,
if you cannot keep it all. R5386:3
Jesus said they bound heavy burdens on the poor people without sympathy
for them--burdens that they themselves were unable to carry. Q725:8
Merely requiring that they keep it to the best of their ability--fifty
percent or eighty percent, according to circumstances and conditions--
according as you are able, keep the Law. R2716:3; Q725:10
The clergy today should say to the people, If we said that you were to
receive a penalty of eternal torment, count that now as being an error,
and write down instead "a just recompense of reward." If we taught you
that your obligations are to perfectly keep the Jewish Law, amend that
feature of your faith, and write instead that God will accept imperfect
works, provided those imperfect works are the best you are able to offer.
R2717:1
So we should tell man that God has provided a Redeemer, that God through
Christ will be very merciful. By telling the people thus, we may get the
ill-will of the scribe and Pharisee class; but we are getting the good
will of the people and those in harmony with God and righteousness. R5386:5
Luke 16:7
A hundred measures of wheat -- 500 to 1,400 bushels. R5436:3

Write fourscore -- The steward's course may not have worked injury to
his employer's real interests. In view of the disproportionate reductions,
it seems not improbable that the steward saw that the debtor never could
pay more. R1626:3
Luke 16:8
The lord commended -- For his worldly wisdom, shrewdness and prudence.
R1626:3, 5749:6, 5436:3, 5386:3
He did not commend the steward's injustice, but his shrewdness in adopting
a policy which would win the favor and friendship of those whom he had
unjustly treated before. R5749:6
The unjust steward -- Unjust in his previous use of his master's
affairs; that is, unrighteous, unsatisfactory, imperfect. R2715:6
Done wisely -- Made good use of his time to "feather his nest." Q752:7
Children of this world -- The worldly man, possessed of wealth, is in
that sense a steward of God's things, and may now use that "mammon," and
with it make for himself friends. T93
In their generation -- Greek, genea, not with significance of race, but
in reference to people living contemporaneously. D603
Wiser -- The scribes and Pharisees would have been wiser by more
promptly recognizing that a change of dispensation required a changed
attitude toward those about to be taken from their control. R2715:6,
2716:2,3
The disciples of the Lord should use all they have wisely and
energetically in the divine service. R5436:5
Children of light -- You, as God's people, and more favored than any
others with light on God's character and plan, are not acting wisely.
R2715:6
Had the scribes and Pharisees followed the course of this steward, they
would have made friends of the publicans and sinners. R5436:3
Now that these Doctors of the Law see the present dispensation ending,
they should correct their former mistakes and make some reparation for
past delinquencies. R5750:1
Luke 16:9
I say unto you -- "Likewise I say the same unto you." The application of
the parable to his followers is somewhat different from its application to
the scribes and Pharisees. R5750:1
There is room for dispute in respect to the teachings of this parable, but
to us it seems clear that Jesus meant that the wisdom of the unjust
steward should be exercised by his disciples in their dealing with the
mammon, the riches, of the present life. R5436:5
They were each talents of certain talents, opportunities, money, etc.
R1626:3
Friends -- Not necessarily those whom we make friends. God is our
friend, the Lord Jesus, the glorified saints, and all the holy angels.
R5750:5
Applied to his time, our Master's words would teach that the scribes and
Pharisees should have sought to win the love and gratitude of their Jewish
brethren. Had they tried to make the people happy and contented, it might
have gone better with them afterward. R5749:6, 5436:3, 5386:3
To do otherwise, on their part, was hypocrisy; for they could not help
knowing that they themselves were unable to comply with the requirements
of the Law, which is the full measure of a perfect man's ability. (Eph.
4:13) R5436:3
Their proper attitude would have been to confess their own shortcomings,
to strive to do their best, to appeal to God for mercy, and to teach the
common people to do similarly. R5436:3
Wherever you can use earthly blessings, money, influence, or anything
else, to make friends, do so; do not try to make enemies out of the people
in general. Q726:1
Live in harmony with the people as far as justice will permit. R5386:4
Out of -- By means of. R1626:6
The mammon -- In other words, lay up treasures in heaven by the
sacrifice of the Mammon of unrighteousness. (Matt. 6:20) R2717:4
Use whatever of the unrighteous mammon you may have in doing as much good
as possible, in blessing and assisting others; and thus they will make
grateful, appreciative friends. R5750:1
Of unrighteousness -- Of this present time of unrighteousness, "this
present evil world." (Gal. 1:4) R2717:4
The earthly wealth or valuables under your control now, which at one time
were in whole or in part controlled by Sin, your long-time taskmaster.
R1626:6
They will not be counted unjust squanderers, as they use their earthly
opportunities for advancing their heavenly interests. R5436:6
We should not be sticklers for full justice and the last penny in earthly
matters. R2865:4
When ye fail -- Our failing will be the reaching of the end of our
sacrificial course. R5750:5, 1626:6
When this age of Satan's domination is ended. T93
They may receive you -- Although we may be excluded from the high
functions of the nominal systems, many of the common people are hearing
gladly and sympathetically and are wishing to share their homes with us.
And so we have homes all over the world, wherever God's people are. R5386:5
Those who could receive us into everlasting habitations would be only the
Lord and his angels. R5750:4
Everlasting habitations -- In their case, the Gospel favor in the end of
their age. R5436:3
The place prepared for the faithful class of "more than conquerors," the
"house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." (Rom. 8:37; 2 Cor.
5:1) R5750:5, 5436:5
Into heavenly conditions--the using of our talents, once active in Sin's
service, in the Lord's service being counted as laying up treasures in
heaven. R1626:6
Whosoever shall give even a cup of cold water unto one of the least of
these priests, because he is such, shall by no means lose his reward when
the Kingdom of Christ is organized and its rule begins. (Matt. 10:42) T93
Luke 16:10
In that which is least -- Unselfish, willing to sacrifice. R5436:6

In the use of earthly things in God's service. R5436:6
Even in the smallest affairs of life we are to look for the Lord's will.
R5740:3
The trifles of life have an important bearing upon our character-building.
R5740:1
"Trifles make perfection; and perfection is no trifle." R5509:1
Even the very thoughts of our minds. SM373:2
Let us be careful in the little things, the little opportunities, hours
and moments. R4132:2, 5595:4
How do we know that we would use a thousand tongues if we do not
faithfully use the one we have? R5419:3; CR5:1
If we had a million dollars, it would be only a small thing in his sight.
Our grandest opportunities for service are comparatively insignificant.
But we are to appreciate even the least service we may be able to render.
R5741:4
Faithful service to the Lord will manifest itself in economy in the home
and in consideration for others around us. R5740:5
The Lord is specially judging of our professions and heart desires by the
little things in life, rather than by the greater things. NS448:6
Present opportunities are to be prized as opportunities for indicating
what is our real attitude of heart. R5740:2
Faithfulness to principle, even in small things, will give evidence of
character, to which may be entrusted the responsibilities of the Kingdom.
R2924:1
Some may have very little of mammon at their disposal to sacrifice. The
Lord accepts the little sacrifices which we are able to make as though
they were greater ones. It is not the amount that God is seeking, but the
character. R2717:4
As pupils, as employees, as servants, clerks, let us learn that there is a
principle involved in even the slightest affairs of life; that whoever is
obedient to these principles is making character, and whoever is
neglecting them is undermining character. NS446:3
The Lord's method is to advance only him whose zeal and faithfulness and
perseverance in well-doing have shown themselves in little things. There
is always plenty of room at the bottom of the ladder of honor. F296
When we practice carefulness in little things, we are thereby developing
our characters along right lines. R5740:6; R5509:1
Whosoever wills, need not for long be without opportunities for serving
the Lord, the Truth and the brethren in humble ways which the
proud-spirited will disdain and neglect, looking for service more
honorable in the sight of men. F296
Little courtesies, little acts of thoughtful consideration for others, how
much they mean! R5509:1
Jesus, having the opportunity to preach, even if it were only to a
Samaritan woman, improved his opportunity. He knew that through her the
truth might go to others. The disciples could not understand why the
Master should be speaking to this woman instead of to a crowd. R5740:3
The work which the Apostle Paul did upon the tents passed to his credit as
a part of his priestly sacrifice just as much as the other part of his
time which he spent in more congenial methods of proclaiming the Gospel.
R3266:2
This does not mean that the Lord's people are to be content with the usual
routine of daily life, but that each day by day carefully scan his earthly
duties to see in what manner he could justly cut off moments, hours or
days from the service of earthly interests to be given to sacrifice for
spiritual interests. R3266:2
We should esteem it a privilege to address wrappers for tracts, or
whatever the opportunity of the hour may be in the Lord's service. If our
work is in the kitchen, it is a service of the Lord if we do all as unto
him. R5740:5
Eternity alone will show the value of some of the little things, the
feeble efforts put forth in the name of the Lord, who judges us by our
faithfulness in little things and small opportunities, rather than by our
great achievements. R4132:2
Habit is a wonderful power, either for good or evil. He who has not
learned self-control in respect to little things cannot expect to be able
to exercise self-control upon the greatest and most important affairs
merely. R2494:1
Also in much -- There are many who are exceedingly careful about
handling a large sum of money, but who are very careless in handling a
small amount. R5740:1
An equal faithfulness in the presence of larger opportunities. R3266:2
Sharing with Messiah in his Kingdom as priests and kings, entrusted with
all of God's favors to be bestowed upon mankind. R5740:2, 5471:4, 5436:6
Unjust in the least -- (Examples cited in referenced Reprint)--small
matters, but one who is careless, thoughtless and inattentive in these is
like to be untrustworthy in larger matters. R5740:2,5
Some can treat lightly their vows to men, and twist and turn a human creed
to suit their own convenience; when they come to God's word, the same
spirit of conscienceless twisting and avoiding issues will hinder their
getting at the simplest elements of divine truth. R1308:6
Also in much -- Unfaithfulness in the present time respecting things of
trifling value in comparison would mean unfaithfulness in the future great
things. R5436:6, 4206:6
Luke 16:11
Not been faithful -- Whoever selfishly appropriates to himself the

things of which he is steward will not be trusted with the future great
things. R5436:6
The true riches -- The glory, honor and immortality of the Kingdom.
R1627:1, 5436:6
How can we be expected to be entrusted with heavenly things while we set a
higher value on earthly things? R450:4*
Luke 16:12
Another man's -- The things of the present life belong to God, because
we have consecrated or devoted them. R5436:6
Your own -- The things of the future life belong to us, because God has
promised them to us. R5436:6
Luke 16:13
Serve two masters -- Righteousness and sin; love and selfishness; God
and Satan. R1626:3, 5437:1 "A double-minded man is unstable in all his
ways." (Jas. 1:8)
God has purposely put the matter so that we cannot be servants of wealth
and servants of God at the same time. He wishes to bring us to the testing
point--the test is: "God first." R5465:6
Despise the other -- In order to be acceptable, we must reach the place
where we love righteousness and hate iniquity--inequity, injustice. SM395:T
Ye cannot serve -- One or the other must conquer. The choice we make
must be a permanent one. In proportion as we are faithful to one, we are
unfaithful to the other. R5437:4
If we attempt to divide our love and attention, the results will be
unsatisfactory to God, unsatisfactory to mammon and unsatisfactory to
ourselves. R2717:2
And mammon -- Two masters claimed their allegiance--Sin and
Righteousness. R1626:3
Self or wealth or fame or position and honor amongst men, one or all of
these. R2717:2, 1626:6
God, his spirit and his teachings, are represented by the word Love; while
Satan and his course are represented by selfishness, covetousness, mammon.
R5437:1
We should have no idols--either wealth or fame or selfish ease--which
might attract our devotion away from God and tempt us to ignore the rich
blessings which he is now offering to the faithful. R5465:6
Of one form of mammon, Jesus said: "How can ye believe who receive honor
one of another, and seek not that honor which cometh from God only" (John
5:44); and of another form, "Ye devour widows' houses, and for a pretense
make long prayers." (Mark 12:40) R3047:4
The spirit of selfishness, covetousness. R5437:1
Riches, honor of men, dignities and titles, place and position. R3047:4
The test is "God first." Our choice must be permanent, and counted the
greatest of privileges. R5465:6, 5437:4
The Lord seeketh not such as are double-hearted to be his joint-heirs in
the Kingdom. R3764:6, 5465:6
Luke 16:14
The Pharisees -- Because the Pharisees were the leading exponents of the
Law, Jesus pointed many of the parables against them, while he
comparatively ignored the irreligious Jews--the Sadducees, who made no
profession of faith. R5436:2
Who were covetous -- Who dearly loved the riches and honors of the
In the Diaglott, "for they were money-lovers." "Covetousness is idolatry"
(Col. 3:5). Illustrated by Israel's worship of the golden calf. R3047:4
They derided him -- They had a plan and system of their own arrangement;
they had no desire to have their own plans superseded by God's plans.
R342:6
Luke 16:15
Which justify yourselves -- You succeed in getting men to think you very
holy. R1627:4
God knoweth your hearts -- That much you do is merely of outward show,
mock humility and pretended self-denials. R1627:4
Highly esteemed -- Not earthly things needed for our physical
well-being, but things that are most highly esteemed include reputation
and money. R285:2, 210:1*
Among men -- So anxious to be highly esteemed of men that they seem to
forget altogether the one from whom they received their stewardship, and
who is about to take it from them. R2716:6
Those who love the praise of men more than the approbation of God suppress
their convictions and hypocritically adhere to the popular multitude.
R582:1*, 468:3*
Had our Lord Jesus joined hands with the popular leaders in the Jewish
church and abstained from pointing out the false doctrines of his day, he
probably would have been highly esteemed amongst men. E236
Inwardly unclean--given to extortion--spiritual wickedness. R5389:3
Honor, fame, a name among men; not so much to be superior as to be
regarded superior; probably the greatest effort that men make is to be
worshipped. R210:1*, 285:2*
To those not well established in the truth, skepticism is infectious; they
need only the word of someone highly esteemed to turn them away from the
truth to fables. R3295:5
Is abomination -- Some, esteemed because of outward moralities, may be
an abomination in the sight of God because of coldness or dishonesty.
R2456:2
In the sight of God -- Illustrated by the rejection of seven of Jesse's
sons because God saw some unfitness at the core, at the heart, which was
not apparent to the outward observer, who like Samuel, would have
concluded otherwise. R4210:1
Luke 16:16
Law -- Of which you are the representatives. R2716:4

Including the Decalogue, as well as the ceremonial features of the Law.
HG584:1*
Were -- Were recognized of God. R2716:4
Until John -- Until John the Baptist. R2716:4
Though a loyal servant to the Lord and a martyr for the truth, John was
not a member of the Gospel Church. He belongs on the lower plane, with the
overcomers of the Jewish age. R2279:3
"God, having provided some better thing for us, that they without us
should not be made perfect." (Heb. 11:40) R2122:6
The heavenly calling was not possible until after the ransom had been
paid, and John died before the sacrifice of atonement had been completed.
D625; F87, 112
He will be a member of the earthly phase of the Kingdom, one of the
"princes in all the earth." (Psa. 45:16) R2279:3
Since that time -- The privilege of heirship in this spiritual phase of
the Kingdom of God was the only offer then being made, and has been the
one hope of our calling during the entire Gospel age, which then began.
A277
In order of development it was first the natural (earthly), afterward the
heavenly rulers; but in order of grandeur of position and time of
instalment, it will be first the spiritual, afterward the natural. A292
The kingdom of God -- The new, the Gospel dispensation. R2716:4, 1627:4
Is preached -- Teaching that a new dispensation is at hand, and the Law
Covenant which they represented should die. R1627:4
From the time of our Lord's baptism and consecration unto death, the work
of redemption having begun, the work of proclaiming the Kingdom was due.
NS185:2
Although our Lord collected a goodly number of disciples during his
ministry, none of these were actually received into the Kingdom
relationship, into an adoption of the holy Spirit, until after our Lord
had finished his sacrifice. NS185:2
Every man -- Who accepts the testimony as a message from God. D620
Should press toward it. R2716:4
Every man desires to get into it. You, therefore, should at once begin to
dispose of the stewardship yet in your hands that you might at least be on
favorable terms with those who shall soon possess the power of the
Kingdom. R1627:4
Luke 16:17
Than one tittle -- Because of the greater and more important things
typified by it. T12
"One iota [smallest Greek letter] or one tip of a letter." (Matt. 5:18,
Diaglott.) R52:3*
Of the law -- It is needful that the Law should die, that Israel may be
liberated, prepared to be united to Messiah. R2716:5
The moral precepts of the Law never have passed away and never will.
R1527:3
To fail -- Types cannot pass away unfulfilled. Example, the Jubilee
type. B179
Luke 16:18
Putteth away his wife -- Thus the Jewish institution was bound to Moses
and the Law as a wife to her husband--so long as it liveth. It is needful,
therefore, that the Law which you represent should die, that Israel may be
liberated and thus be prepared to be united (married) to Messiah by a New
Covenant (Rom. 7:1-3). R2716:5
Luke 16:19
There was -- Was there a certain rich man, or is this a parable? HG225:1
If it be a statement of literal facts, then all the facts must be taken
literally. NS818:5
It is accepted as a literal statement, notwithstanding the fact that we
read again, "Without a parable spake he not unto them." R5004:3
It is a parable without doubt; because to take it literally would make of
it an absurdity. R1966:1, 1086:5; HG385:2; OV163:2; Q597:2
A parable, not to be taken literally, any more than the other parables and
dark sayings of our Master. R5444:2
The great difficulty with many in reading this Scripture is that, though
they regard it as a parable, they reason on it and draw conclusions from
it as though it were a literal statement. R2603:6, 1086:5, 1000:1, 283:3;
HG385:2
We admit that, since our Lord did not interpret it, anybody has the same
right as ourselves to seek to find and to make known an interpretation
which will fit all of the various parts of the parable and be reasonable,
Scriptural and harmonious. HG428:1
The culmination of the entire series of parables, picturing the favored
class as the rich man, who enjoyed, but did not rightly appreciate, the
blessings showed upon him--selfishly shutting up his heart against the
poor sinner at the gate. R2717:3,6
Rich man -- Not a word is said about his wickedness. R2603:6, 5004:3,
1086:6, 1000:1, 283:3; HG225:1, 427:6; OV163:2; Q597:2
The rich man was the Jewish nation, which had been in God's favor for more
than 16 centuries. To the Jew had been given the promises, the prophets,
the blessings and privileges of the Law Covenant. R5444:3, 5004:3, 2604:2,
1000:2, 284:1; HG225:1, 385:4, 428:2; NS819:1
Representing the scribes and Pharisees, the elder son in the parable of
the Prodigal Son. R1966:4
Dives [from the Vulgate, the Latin word for "rich (man)"] represented the
Orthodox Jews, and not the "outcasts of Israel." R2604:6
Compare with Ezek. 16:1-14. The same denunciation is uttered in Matt.
21:41-43, and its accomplishment recorded in Rom. 11. R802:3
In a word, this parable seems to teach precisely what Paul explained in
Rom. 11:19-32. HG387:5
To be rich is not necessarily an evil. Abraham was very rich, likewise
Isaac, Jacob, King David, King Solomon, etc. God himself is very rich.
R5444:1; Q597:2, 529:4
Clothed in purple -- To them belonged the promise of the Kingdom. OV364:2
As God's typical Kingdom. R5004:3, 5444:3, 2604:2; Q598:2; PD60/72
Invested with royalty; the promises made to Abraham and David. R2604:2,
1966:4; OV163:3; Q598:2; PD60/72
Symbolizing royalty. They were the typical kingdom. R5444:3, 5004:3,
2604:2, 1966:4, 1086:6, 1000:2, 284:1; HG225:1, 385:5, 426:2; OV163:2;
NS819:2
Although the crown had been taken off in Zedekiah's day, God had promised
that he would give it in due time to him whose right it is, and that
Messiah should be of the stock of David. Q598:2
And fine linen -- Fine linen is a symbol of righteousness. (Rev. 19:8)
R284:1; HG385:5
The purging of their sins, typical justification, accomplished on their
annual Atonement Day. OV364:2
Symbolizing their typical justification through typical sacrifices.
R5444:3, 5004:3, 2604:2, 1086:6, 1000:3, 284:1; HG225:1, 385:5, 426:3;
OV163:2; Q598:2; NS819:1
Fared sumptuously -- As no other people did. OV364:2
Enjoyed but did not appreciate his blessings. R2717:6
"Chiefly, because to them were committed the oracles of God." (Rom. 3:2)
R1086:6, 2604:2, 1000:2
Having the rich promises of the Law and the prophets. R5004:3, 5444:3;
OV163:3, 364:4; Q598:2; PD60/72
Their sumptuous fare represented the divine promises, as St. Paul's words
imply in Romans 11:9. R5444:3, 5004:5, 2604:2, 1966:4, 1086:6; HG426:3;
Q598:2; NS819:1
Their table was furnished in the presence of all their enemies, as they
themselves boasted. HG225:5
"Let their table become a trap and a snare and a recompense to them."
(Psa. 69:22) NS819:2
Luke 16:20
A certain beggar -- Representing an outcast class, including publicans

and sinners, also including Gentiles. These had no fine linen of typical
justification, and no purple, representing a share in God's favor as part
of his Kingdom. R5444:4, 2604:2, 1086:6; HG385:5; OV163:2
Lazarus represented the Gentiles--all nations of the world aside from
Israelites. R1000:3, 284:1; HG225:6, 426:4; Q600:T
Not all the Gentiles, but certain ones concerning whom Jesus said, "I have
not found so great faith, no, not in Israel." (Matt. 8:10) NS820:1
Lazarus represented the hopelessness of the sinners and Gentiles, who
hungered for a share in the promises to Abraham. PD60/72
We read not a word about his good qualities, his purity of heart, his
generosity to the poor, his reverence to God, etc., but merely that he was
poor. HG427:6; OV163:2; Q597:5
Laid at his gate -- Outside the gate of favor--aliens, strangers and
foreigners to the commonwealth of Israel. R5004:6
Outside of the pale of the Jewish influence. HG225:6
Full of sores -- Sores represent sin. Q600:T
The sores represented moral defilement in this class, for whose
justification no sin-offering had at that time been made. R1086:6; HG426:4
Sin-sick, covered with sores--because not sharers in Israel's yearly
sin-atonement sacrifices. R5004:6; PD60/72
Luke 16:21
Desiring to be fed -- Hungry, because all of the promises of God

primarily belonged to Israel. R5004:6
They had no table prepared with divine promises, no share in the promises
of royalty, no justification from sin. OV364:4
With the crumbs -- Occasional crumbs of comfort. OV163:2
Signifying that Jesus did, on a few occasions, allow some special
blessings of healing, which were for the Jews, to go to this worthy class
of Gentiles. NS820:2
Two such crumbs given by Jesus: healing the Roman centurion's servant and
the daughter of the Syro-Phoenician woman. R5444:4, 5004:6, 2604:3,
1966:4, 1087:1, 1000:4 284:2; HG225:6, 244:6, 385:6, 428:4; OV163:2,
365:T; Q600:1; NS820:2
The dogs came -- They were companions of dogs, aliens, foreigners from
divine favor. HG428:5; OV164:T, 364:7
Licked his sores -- Also intimating that they were Gentiles. R5004:6,
2604:2, 1000:3, 284:1
The typically clean Jew considered all Gentiles fit associates of dogs,
which were regarded as detestable creatures in those days. OV164:T;
R5004:4, 2604:3, 1087:1, 1000:4, 284:2
In the sense of considering the Lazarus class upright and godly, and in
some sense having sympathy with them. NS820:2
Luke 16:22
The beggar died -- As the Jews died to their favor, so the outcast
publicans, sinners and Gentiles, died to their disfavor. R5444:5, 2604:3
The death of the beggar occurred three and a half years after the cross,
at the end of Israel's specified seventy weeks of special favor. HG429:1;
OV164:T
He did not die ordinarily; he was carried by the angels. HG225:3
The poor Gentiles, "strangers from the covenants of promise," were then
"made nigh by the blood of Christ." (Eph. 2:12,13) R5005:1, 2604:4,
1000:5, 284:3
Was carried -- Not buried. Q601:1
Bringing hitherto aliens into the family of God as children and heirs of
the Abrahamic promises and blessings. HG303:3
By the angels -- The angels were the apostles and ministers of the
Gospel--specially St. Peter and St. Paul, declaring to the Gentiles that,
whereas once they were "aliens," they were now "brought nigh" through
faith in the Lord Jesus. R5005:1, 2604:3, 1000:4; HG386:1
The early Jewish Church, messengers of God and Christ, received believing
Gentiles into full fellowship as brethren of the Seed of Abraham. OV364:5
Into Abraham's bosom -- Not to heaven, not to purgatory, not to some
intermediate state. NS820:4
Became the children of God and children and heirs of the Abrahamic
promise. "If ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs
according to the promise." (Gal. 3:29) R5444:5, 5005:1, 2604:3, 1966:4,
1087:1, 1000:4,5, 284:2; HG429:2, 386:2, 226:1; Q601:1; NS820:4; PD60/72
Symbolically saying that the outcasts of Israel and the worthy Gentiles
became children of God and heirs of Abraham, who typified God. R5005:1
Thus the Gentiles have become Abraham's seed, and heirs of the spiritual
part of the Abrahamic promise. (Gal. 3:29) PD60/72
If Abraham's arms are only for the poor and sick, he surely has them more
than filled long ago. R1966:1, 1086:5; HG225:3, 244:5, 428:1; OV163:2
If the whole statement is literal, bosom must be literal. Abraham's bosom
would not hold very many of earth's millions of sick and poor. R283:6,
4644:2, 2604:1, 1086:5, 1000:1; OV364:5; Q597:5
How absurd to interpret that Lazarus is blessed, not because he was good,
but simply because he was poor and sick. R283:3, 4644:1, 2604:1, 1086:5,
1000:1; OV363:7
Rich man also died -- In Jesus' day Jewish favor began to wane. They
were completely cut off in AD 70. During the interim of 40 years the rich
man, the Jewish nation, sickened, died and was buried. R5444:3, 5004:5;
HG428:6; Q598:2; NS819:3
Ceased to exist as a nation. R1087:1; HG225:5
The dying process began from the time of our Lord's crucifixion. HG428:6;
NS819:3
When the typical righteousness ceased. R1000:4; HG386:1
The Jewish nation rejected and crucified the Son of God and died to all
their previous special advantages and favor. R2604:3, 5454:2, 5444:5,
1000:4; Q598:2; PD60/72
The death of both beggar and rich man at the same time represented a
change of dispensation: "Your house is left unto you desolate." (Luke
13:35) R1966:4, 2604:3
Was buried -- Amongst other people, dead in trespasses and sins. HG386:3
Luke 16:23
In hell -- Entombed in hades as a nation. HG428:6; OV164:3; NS819:3

As a nation they are still in hades, oblivion. Q598:2
He was not taken to Gehenna. He was taken to hades. Hades never refers to
future torment. HG225:2
Whatever goes into hades must come out. That is the very thought of hades.
It means a temporary stopping place from which the person or thing will
come out. Q598:2
Nationally, they went to hades, to the tomb; and their resurrection has
not yet been accomplished, although Zionism is the beginning of it.
R5444:3, 5004:5
In a cast-off condition. HG386:1
The Lord wished to show that great sufferings or "torments" would be added
to the Jews as a nation after their national dissolution. HG386:3
How absurd to conclude that simply because a man was rich, he must suffer
through all eternity! R4644:1, 5444:2, 2603:6, 1966:1, 1086:5
In tribulation and affliction. R1000:4, 2604:3, 284:2
He lift up his eyes -- The dead cannot lift up their eyes, nor converse;
for it is distinctly stated, "There is no work, nor device, nor knowledge,
nor wisdom, in the grave." (Eccl. 9:10) R2604:4
Being in torments -- As a nation dead, yet as a people scattered amongst
all nations, Israel lives and has suffered torments since the rejection of
Messiah. E377
These "torments" have been the penalties attached to the violation of
their covenant. HG386:4
History has borne out this parabolic prophecy. The Jews have been
relentlessly persecuted by all classes, including professed Christians.
R2604:5, 1966:4, 802:3; HG386:4; Q599:T
The fire and the torment are as truly symbolic as the other features of
the parable. HG303:3
For many years this parable has caused distress of mind to God's people.
No other Scripture seemed to agree with this parable. Its one support text
in Revelation [19:20, 20:10] speaks of a symbolic beast and a symbolic
false prophet in torment. But now we see that it is not to be taken
literally. R5444:2
Afar off -- God no longer favoring him. R2604:5 Lazarus -- The spiritual
seed of Abraham. R5444:5
In his bosom -- No longer aliens, but children. R5444:5
Luke 16:24
He cried -- Although nationally dead and buried, the Jews individually

have been very much alive, have had anguish of soul and have cried out to
God. R5444:3, 5004:5; HG225:5; OV164:3; NS819:6
As a people they are alive, but as a live people they have been suffering
torture all through this Gospel age. HG225:5
Father Abraham -- Representing God. R5444:3, 5005:1, 2604:2; HG429:2
Send Lazarus -- Representing the Jewish people, in great distress,
asking God to allow Christians to give them some help from their troubles.
R5445:1, 5005:4, 2604:5
Example: The appeal of the Jews to President Roosevelt to use his
influence with the government of Russia for the amelioration of Jewish
persecutions. This drop of water was denied by President Roosevelt.
R5445:1, 5005:4; HG429:4; Q599:T
Cool my tongue -- With a symbolical drop of water of comfort or
refreshment. OV164:3
I am tormented -- Not only the torment of a Law which none of them ever
did or ever could keep perfectly, but another kind of
torment--persecution. R1042:6
The parable does not go on to show that the time will come when the Jews
will come out of that time of trouble. It merely leaves it there, in the
trouble. Q599:T
Luke 16:25
Son -- God still recognizes the relationship established in his covenant

with them, and addresses them as children of the covenant. HG386:4
Luke 16:26
A great gulf fixed -- Until the fullness of the Gentiles be come in.
R802:3
The "great gulf fixed" represents the wide difference between the Gospel
Church and the Jew. R2604:5; HG386:4
The gulf of unbelief, and consequent separation from divine favor. NS820:5
The great gulf between Judaism and Christianity has been fixed for more
than 18 centuries. Thank God, another change of dispensation will
resurrect the rich man from hades. While God's Kingdom will be represented
on the spiritual plane by the Lazarus class, it will be represented on the
earthly plane by another class, which will be Jewish. R5444:5,6
Though the parable mentions no bridging of this gulf, other Scriptures
indicate it was "fixed" only throughout the Gospel age, and that the rich
man, having received the measurement of punishment for his sins, will walk
out of his fiery troubles over the bridge of God's promises yet
unfulfilled to that nation. R2605:1; HG387:3
They are leaving their hadean state of torment and coming, the first of
the nations, to be blessed by the true seed of Abraham, which is Christ.
Their bulwark of race-prejudice and pride is falling in some places.
R1043:1
Prejudice, pride and error on the Jewish side, which hinder the Jew from
coming into the condition of true sons of God; and on the side of the
Church a knowledge that "by the deeds of the Law shall not flesh be
justified." (Rom. 3:20) R2604:5, 1087:1, 1042:3; HG386:5
Since Christ's first advent, no Jew can come near to God aside from
Christ, nor Gentile take the former position of the Jew or to claim favor
aside from Christ. R5444:5
To you cannot -- The bulwark which hinders true sons of God from going
to the Jew is their knowledge that by the deeds of the Law none can be
justified before God. R2604:5, 1042:3; HG386:5
We, who are of the Lazarus class, should not attempt to mix the Law and
the Gospel, knowing that they cannot be mixed. R2604:6, 1042:3; HG386:5
Neither can they pass -- True, a few Jews probably came into the
Christian faith all the way down the Gospel age, but so few as to be
ignored in a parable which represented the Jewish people as a whole.
R1042:6; HG386:6
God has not wished that the Jewish nation should amalgamate with other
nations nor with Christendom. OV164:3
Until the end of the Gospel age. R2605:1
Luke 16:28
Five brethren -- The suggestion of the parable that something be done

for these five brethren is for the purpose of showing us that nothing
would be done for them. HG429:5
Doubtless introduced to show that all special favor of God ceased to all
Israel (the ten tribes as well as the two more distinctly addressed).
HG387:2
The Jews of Palestine in Jesus' day represented chiefly the tribes of
Benjamin and Judah, while the majority of the other ten tribes were
scattered abroad in various lands. Whereas two tribes, Judah and Benjamin,
were represented by the one rich man, so proportionately the other ten
tribes would be represented by five brethren. R5445:4, 5004:6, 2605:1,
1000:5, 284:3; HG245:2, 387:1, 429:5, 364:6; Q599:1; NS819:5
Luke 16:29
They have Moses -- Identifying the rich man and his brethren as the
twelve tribes of Israel. OV165:1, 364:6; R5445:4, 2605:1
Let the hear them -- No special favor would be shown to those brethren.
OV165:1
Luke 16:31
If they hear not -- The majority of the ten tribes had so far
disregarded Moses and the prophets, it would be useless to attempt further
communication with them. R2605:1
Moses -- This proves that Jews only were referred to; for no Gentile had
Moses and the prophets. R5445:1, 5004:6, 2605:1, 1000:5, 284:4; OV364:6;
Q599:1; NS819:5
One rose from the dead -- The figuratively dead, but now figuratively
risen Lazarus class. R2605:1; HG387:2
Luke 17
Luke 17:1
Offences -- More particularly signifying stumblings, or still more

literally, ensnarement. R5445:2
It is not in the power of any today to crucify the Lord and put him to an
open shame, but it is within our power to put to shame, to crucify, his
"brethren," the members of his Body. R2471:1
Woe unto him -- Not unjustly condemning anybody for ignorantly or
unintentionally offending, but cautioning those who would deliberately
attempt to deceive and ensnare or discourage his followers. R5445:3
Though ignorant of what they do, they nevertheless put themselves under
the Lord's sentence. R2471:1
In the Truth, these contentious persons are to be found in considerable
numbers, doing a destructive work, an injurious work, instead of a helpful
work. R4502:2
Luke 17:2
Better for him -- He would lose merely the present life, and not the
future life during the Millennium. R5445:3
In a word, whoever sins against light and knowledge is endangering his own
opportunities for everlasting life. R5445:5
Sowing seeds of discord, and planting roots of bitterness, which are sure
to bring forth an evil fruitage, hurtful to many. R4502:2
God has expressed a special reprobation for those who do injury to the
Church. R4502:2
Little ones -- The consecrated followers of Jesus are called little ones
because they are new creatures who have only started in the new way of
full consecration to God's will--"babes in Christ" (1 Cor. 3:1); "little
children" (1 John 5:21). R5445:2
These were the "little ones" in malice and pride and in the world's
estimate. R2063:4
They may be old in years and gray-headed, but their hearts are young and
preserve the sweet simplicity of childhood. R1972:2
Little in the world's estimate; not many great or wise. (1 Cor. 1:26)
R2063:4
Luke 17:3
Take heed -- Verses 3 and 4 are apparently a part of the same discourse
recorded in Matt. 18:15-22. R5445:5
To yourselves -- The lesson is addressed to the followers of Jesus, not
to the world. R5445:5
If thy brother -- It relates primarily toward their duty toward their
brethren of the household of faith, but secondarily it has a broader
application. R5445:5
Trespass against thee -- Not trivial affairs, not evil surmisings or
imaginings, not fancied insults, but positive wrongs done us. R4978:2
Rebuke him -- Some intimation that we recognize the wrong, and that it
has grieved us and hurt us. R2296:1
With the majority of people, however, it would probably be quite
unnecessary to urge the propriety of repentance--unless they were the
transgressors whose duty it is to repent. R2296:1
Our duty to do so, kindly, lovingly, wisely. R4978:2
If he repent -- God does not forgive our sins until we acknowledge them
and ask his forgiveness. We are not to accept one portion of the divine
direction and to ignore another portion. R4978:1, 2295:6
It is as much the Lord's command that we do not forgive until he turns
again and repents, as it is command that we do forgive, from the heart,
when he does turn and repent. R1694:2
To require less than this is to disobey our Teacher's instruction and to
do injury to the transgressor by giving him lax ideas as to his duty.
R1694:2
But while some need to correct their hearts and conduct against
over-forgiving, more, probably, need to guard against an unforgiving
spirit. R1694:4
Most people are sufficiently disinclined to forgive to wait until their
forgiveness is asked. R2296:1
Forgive him -- The lesson is mercy--boundless mercy. The basis of the
argument is that all need mercy, divine mercy, because all are imperfect.
R5445:5
But not otherwise, though always remaining in an attitude of forgiveness,
waiting for the desired and necessary repentance. R1694:2, 4650:5
The large majority apparently do not "forgive from the heart" (Matt.
18:35), but merely from the lips. R2296:1, 3801:5
Heart forgiveness leaves no sting, no animosity, no grudge. R2296:1
Like the father of the prodigal, when we see the repentant one coming in
an attitude of humility, we should go out part way to meet him. R4978:4
Luke 17:4
Turn again to thee -- If he trespass seventy times seven he should be

rebuked as often, either by word, conduct, or both, and should repent in
words and turn in conduct just as often; and as soon as we believe him
sincere, we must be prompt and hearty in our forgiveness. R1694:2,5
Thou shalt forgive -- The disposition to forgive should be with us
always. R4978:3
The Lord's blessings to us shall be dependent upon our endeavor to
exercise this God-like quality of mercy. R5445:5
Luke 17:5
The apostles said -- Impressed with the grandeur of Jesus' teachings,

and the difficulties lying ahead. R5446:2
Increase our faith -- Our Lord's teachings were so adverse to the
world's policies that his disciples felt that to adopt them involved a
revolution of their former ideas. In yielding themselves, they felt the
need of a stronger, firmer faith than they had yet been called upon to
exercise. R1967:2
By a continuous, humble and faithful service. R1953:5*
Luke 17:6
The Lord said -- He made no direct answer, but dwelt on the power and
desirability of faith. R1967:3
If ye had faith -- A great deal passes for faith which is merely
credulity. The faith commended in the Bible is that which relates to
things which God has promised. R5446:2
Sycamine tree -- Regarding the trees and mountains as symbols of
difficulties and obstructions in our individual Christian course, or in
the general course of God's work, we know that "miracles" are wrought to
those who exercise faith. R1967:5
Plucked up -- Thus it was when the Lord caused the barren fig tree to
wither for a definite and wise purpose, to teach an important lesson, and
also to convince his disciples of his divine recognition and authority.
R1967:5
It should obey -- Not to attempt to command mountains to be carried into
seas, but if they should receive a command from God to move a mountain
into a sea, they should give the command with faith and the results would
follow. But God gave no such command in respect to mountains or trees.
R5446:4, 1967:3
Luke 17:7
But which of you -- Part of the reply to verse 5--A continuous, humble
and faithful service and discharge of duty will result in an increase of
one's faith, to a degree greater than indicated by the mustard seed, said
to be the smallest of seeds. R1953:5*
Luke 17:8
Afterward -- We must not sit down and expect our Lord to serve us until
we have proved faithful in serving him. R1953:5
Luke 17:10
Unprofitable servants -- We will still be his debtors; and the more

faithful and diligent we are in his service, the more will it be to our
own profit--to the increase of our faith, as well as to our upbuilding in
character. R1953:5
In the sense that God could just as easily do without us, indeed, could
more easily do his work otherwise. He could use as his messengers angels
or providences of life. None of us is indispensable to his work and to his
glory. R5446:5
As servants of God we owe him the full measure of our ability; hence we
may not feel that we have merited or earned the great blessings of
heavenly inheritance and joint-heirship with Christ. R1967:6
Though a servant, Jesus was not an "unprofitable" servant, but a
"righteous" servant who could redeem the rest--a very profitable servant.
R489:1*
Our duty to do -- We may not expect rewards of divine favor. When they
are received, we are not to regard them as evidences that we have done any
more than it was our duty to do. R1967:6
Luke 17:11
To Jerusalem -- It is surmised that this was his last journey to

Jerusalem, which eventuated in his death. R5454:1
Samaria and Galilee -- In this locality leprosy still abounds rather
more than elsewhere, and groups, somewhat like the one described here, are
frequently to be seen. R2722:3
Luke 17:12
Ten men -- Drawn together by their common trouble which ignored the
racial barriers between Jews and Samaritans. R5454:1
Were lepers -- From the standpoint of the Law, it was evident that
leprosy was meant to represent sin and its loathsome, contagious and
consuming character. R2722:1
Leprosy, a symbol of sin, corrupts the blood, and the joints twist, decay
and slough off. R5454:1
Leprosy has long been regarded as incurable and, therefore, is used as an
illustration of sin, which is also incurable. CR413:1
Afar off -- The isolation of lepers was distinctly enjoined in the Law,
but no cure or remedy was prescribed. R2722:2
They were not allowed to approach others nearer than about 150 feet, for
fear of contamination. R5454:1
So sinners by divine decree are isolated from the pure, the holy, the
righteous. CR413:2
They were obliged to keep at a distance, on the approach of a stranger to
cry out, "Unclean! Unclean!" R2722:1; CR413:1
Luke 17:13
Jesus, Master -- As only the Master's word could heal the lepers, so
nothing short of a divine remedy can cure the leprosy of sin. CR413:1
Jesus is the only physician who can heal the leprosy of sin. CR413:4
Have mercy on us -- Ordinarily their appeal was for money. R5454:1,
2722:3
Luke 17:14
Go -- He did not, before granting healing, bargain with them, saying,

"If I heal you, will you consecrate your lives and become my disciples?"
R5454:4
Shew yourselves -- Implying a healing, and suggesting that by the time
they should reach the priest they would be ready to have him pronounce
them clean. R5454:2, 2722:3
Unto the priests -- The disease was treated from a religious standpoint,
and in every case made amenable to the judgment of the priests. So, in the
great malady of sin, God commits to the antitypical priesthood the work of
making manifest what is sin, as distinct and separate from what is
Under the Law Covenant they were to have no sicknesses except as these
should represent sins; and the priests were to pass judgment upon cases of
leprosy, determining whether or not the disease was indeed leprosy. R5454:1
This implied that the leprosy had ceased its ravages, and they would be
pronounced free from contagion. R2722:3, 5454:2
The priests must pass upon a leper's cleansing before he would be
readmitted to society. R2722:2
As they went -- The lepers must have exercised great faith; for instead
of crying out for instantaneous healing, they followed his direction and
started for the priest to have an inspection. R5454:2
Thankful for a release from their sufferings. R2722:4
Luke 17:15
One of them -- How many of the tens, the hundreds, the thousands, whose
devotion and faith the Lord has accepted--healed, forgiven and received
according to their profession of discipleship--really have become his true
followers? R5454:5
Only a "little flock" appreciate the favor of sins forgiven during this
age. PD64/74
Luke 17:16
Giving him thanks -- The degree of our acceptance with God is measured
by our gratitude. It leads to obedience to the divine laws and
regulations, whether understood or not, and it leads to self-sacrificing
labors in the service of God. R5453:3
Representing consecration. CR414:6; R2723:1
Thankfulness of heart is a very sure sign of the character God is seeking.
R2722:6
He was a Samaritan -- The Samaritan seems to represent a class of
grateful followers of the Lord who seek to give him glory in their words,
thoughts and doings, while the majority, similarly receiving his favor,
are disposed to pursue the ambitions and pleasures of the present life.
R5454:6
We cannot doubt that he will receive a blessing eventually, though he did
not receive it then, for he was a Samaritan, an alien, a foreigner from
the commonwealth of Israel. R5454:2, 2722:5
Being a Gentile, his healing was a "crumb from the children's table."
(Mark 7:28) R5454:2
Luke 17:17
Ten cleansed -- Representing justification. R2722:6

Where are the nine? -- We are not told that the nine were, because of
their unthankfulness, in any degree deprived of the blessing already
received. R2722:5
We may surmise that the nine never came into the Church. On the contrary,
we have good reason to hope for the Samaritan that, his heart nearer to
the Kingdom requirement, would, subsequent to the Gospel being preached to
the Samaritans, be a ready hearer and receive the good message. R2722:6,
1967:6
Amongst all who receive such blessings and favors at our Lord's hands, how
few, comparatively, return and lay themselves at his feet living
sacrifices. R2722:6
The majority, hearing of God's loving and merciful plan, go on their way
rejoicing because delivered from the bondage of error, but will not offer
themselves in service. R5441:3
Luke 17:18
There are not found -- Not having a sufficiency of love, appreciation

and thankfulness to return in their cleansed condition to, first of all,
acknowledge the giver of the blessing they had received. R2722:4
Save this stranger -- A Samaritan, an alien, a Gentile, a foreigner from
the commonwealth of Israel (Eph. 2:12), debarred, for the time, from
spiritual blessings. R5454:2, 2722:5
Luke 17:19
Go thy way -- Had the returning one been a Jew instead of a Samaritan,
no doubt he would have been invited by Jesus to become one of his
followers. R5454:3
We cannot doubt, however, that when the time came for the opening of the
door to the Gentiles, he was amongst those who gladly received the
message, and made a full consecration. R5454:3
Thy faith -- Not that it was the man's faith aside from divine power,
but rather that it was the Master's using divine power in connection with
the faith of the individual. The power of God and the faith of the man
cooperated for his healing. R5454:3
Luke 17:20
When -- Supposing the Kingdom would be visible, composed of himself and

his followers in the flesh; and seeing no army or other evidences of
temporal power for the establishment of an earthly kingdom. HG346:6, 366:1
He was demanded of -- Not with any hope of correcting him, but with a
view to opening the eyes of his followers to the weakness and fallacy of
his teachings. SM751:2
Being insincere; when their questions, intended to trap the Master, were
answered and foiled, they merely acknowledged their defeat by their
silence. SM752:1
Should come -- Appear--When will we see it? HG346:6
He answered -- With "Our Lord's Great Prophecy"--Compare Matt. 24; Mark
13; Luke 17:20-37. D563
The Kingdom of God -- They purposed to entrap Jesus. If he should say, A
long time, his followers would be disheartened. If he should say, A short
time, they would proceed to query, Where will you get your army? R5455:2
Not with observation -- Without manifestation, outward show (margin).
R5181:3, 189:1; A276; B142; HG33:1, 664:6
Without noise or other demonstration to attract attention. B143
Earthly show, display. HG366:1
My Kingdom, the Kingdom of heaven of which I am the King, will not appear
at all. SM752:1
That is to say, when the Kingdom should come, people would not see it.
R5455:2
Unseen, and for a time, unrecognized. A277
His Kingdom, when established, would pervade all society and control all,
but be seen by none. R113:3
There will be no outward demonstration until the Church is gathered,
whenever that takes place--soon or in the distant future. R264:4, 20:5
Christ and his glorified Church will be as invisible to men as are Satan
and his angels now, because they will be spirit beings. R3075:3
The entire glorified Church will be as invisible to the world as the
Heavenly Father is, and as our Lord Jesus was after his resurrection.
R2981:3
His Kingdom will be observed plainly enough, for there is no single
question that must not pass through the fire. Yet his presence is unseen,
except as revealed by these, his acts. R794:4*
But it shall act through visible agencies and produce visible results, not
baneful and atrocious, but grand and glorious. R210:6*
Doing a work of which the world, for a time, will be entirely unaware. B143
Outward display. Jesus said not one word about anyone seeing himself or
any one of the apostles in Kingdom glory. But he did say, "Ye shall see
Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and all the prophets" (Luke 13:28,29). R5199:5
The Lord and the glorified Church will all be spirit beings, fully able to
administer the world's affairs and yet be unseen by mankind. They will be
manifest in the rewards, punishments and judgments of that day. R5181:5
2 Pet. 3:4 tells us that so unperceived will be his presence that scoffers
will say, "Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell
asleep all things continue as they were from the beginning." R794:1*; B167
The signs of the time will not be in the outward condition of the world.
On the contrary, everything will be going along in as quiet and orderly a
manner as ever, just as in the days of Noah. R5455:6, 793:6*
They err who divide the second advent into two parts: with Jesus going
away with his Church, unseen to the world; and then coming again with them
in the flesh, visible to human sight. R631:5
Jesus' first advent had been obscure and unrecognized by many. R710:2
Luke 17:21
Neither shall they say -- For the Kingdom of God would be the power of
God exerted everywhere in the midst of the people. R5455:2
Lo here! -- They cannot observe it with the natural eye, nor can they
point it out or locate it, although it will be everywhere present amongst
men; an omnipresent and omnipotent rule, or reign of righteousness.
R2980:3; HG347:1
They were expecting him who would be the glory of the world, and whose
capital would be located at Jerusalem. NS697:3
There was a measure of truth in the Jewish expectation concerning the
promised Kingdom, which will in due time be realized; but our Lord's
reference here is to the spiritual phase of the Kingdom, which will be
invisible. A277
The kingdom of God -- A kingdom is always represented by its king.
R5455:3
"God's Royal Majesty"--Diaglott. R629:6
The glorified Church. R102:1
Is within you -- Among (margin). HG33:1
A closer examination of the original would have shown that the text would
better be translated, "The kingdom of God is in your midst." R5455:3,
2980:3; HG347:1; NS511:4
The Diaglott and Rotherham's translation render this "among you," which is
synonymous with "in your midst." A276 "In the midst of you"--a present,
but invisible authority, government, rule of righteousness. R2981:4, 397:4
In the midst of men--good, bad and indifferent. HG366:2
It will be amongst mankind, everywhere present, but wholly invisible.
R2980:3; A276; HG347:1
Present in power, though hidden from view; revealed by its operations and
through its servants, but not to natural sight. HG664:6
The Kingdom of God will be among but invisible to men in its coming. It is
only after it has come and done a work that the visible phase is
due--during the Millennial age. R287:1,4
In due time it will bring mankind into harmony with itself. Then the
Kingdom of God will be among men; then men will be the visible
representatives of the invisible or spiritual Kingdom. R397:4
Unseen by the natural eye, and at first undiscovered by the world. R629:6
Jesus, as the King, was present in their midst, but they did not recognize
him. Similarly, all through the Gospel age, the Church of Christ, his
"Body," has been undiscerned by the world. R5455:3
It could not have been our Lord's intention to say that the Kingdom of God
was then or ever would be within the hearts of the class addressed, which
elsewhere he styled "hypocrites, whited walls and sepulchers." R2980:3,
397:4; HG347:2, 366:2; NS511:5
Luke 17:22
Unto the disciples -- Turning from the silenced Pharisees. R5455:4

To see -- As you now see me present and in the flesh. R113:6
Ye shall not see it -- Now he has a work to do alone, and requires no
eye witnesses. HG25:4
Luke 17:23
They shall say -- False teachers who will exercise much influence upon
the Church. R113:6
See here -- Greek, idou; not horao, as in Matt. 24:30--"then shall all
the tribes of the earth mourn and they shall see the Son of Man coming in
the clouds of heaven." R555:2*
Go not after them -- Do not believe anybody who will tell you I will
come in any such manner. R5455:5; D583
Beware of false teachers. R123:5
Luke 17:24
The lightning -- Translate the Greek word astrape as "shining" instead

of "lightning." It evidently refers to the sun, which rises in the east
and sets in the west. R5455:5; B155
Not suddenly, like lightning; but gradually, like the dawning sunlight.
B156
"The bright shining of a candle doth give thee light." (Luke 11:36)
R5455:5; B155, 156
"The Sun of righteousness shall arise with healing in his beams." (Mal.
4:2)
B156, 165; D583
Invisible, its presence recognized only by the thunder and the flashes of
light which come from it. R228:2
As the lightning is discernible only by its shining and power, so will I
be in my day recognizable to my waiting bride by the light of truth, and
afterward to the world, in the light of events and the "flaming fire" of
the day of trouble. R189:2
As the flashes of truth upon all subjects and questions lighten up more
and more the understandings of mankind. R794:1*, 629:6, 123:5
It shines in the heavens (the Church), but it is sometimes a very
destructive agent on earth (to the world). R114:5
Man can see by the destruction it leaves, where the lightning has been;
so, in the day of the Lord, men will come to recognize by the national
trouble and overturning that the great day of his wrath is come. R598:2
Lightning and thunder give evidence that atmospheric changes are taking
place, that the vitiated and corrupt "air" is to be changed, and we
rejoice that it will be pure after the storm. R153:1
Not that he will come like the lightning, but he will be like the
lightning after he has arrived and is present. R348:5
Electricity, unseen, can go six to ten times around the earth in one
second. R123:4, 114:4
It is the electric fluid that lightens or causes the flash; then let us
read: "As the electric fluid which causes the flashes of light." R348:5,
153:1, 114:4
Not as he was in the flesh, But "as the lightning." HG29:1
Spiritual bodies are represented as shining as the lightning--Luke 10:18;
Matt. 28:3; Dan. 10:6; 1 Cor. 15:8. HG25:5
Shineth -- Everywhere, instantly, noiselessly, gradually bringing to
light the truth on every subject; to be first discerned by those first
awake. B160, 165; D583
The Son of man -- The seed of Adam, through Eve, the Son of the Man.
E152, 153; R944:1
In his day -- This word day [Greek, heemera] is the same as in verse 26.
Hence, notwithstanding Christ is to be "as the lightning," in his day; yet
it is to be "as it was in the days of Noe," when they planted and builded,
and knew not. HG28:5
Luke 17:26
The days of Noe -- The presence of Christ is not compared to the flood,
but to the days of Noah, the days that were before the flood. R580:5;
HG24:6
The end of the first dispensation and that of this present dispensation
are wonderfully similar. Previous to the end of the first dispensation a
superhuman influence had entered into the world. Today we find a similar
condition. R4797:2
The great teacher, Jesus, here confirms the narrative of Noah and the
flood. A61; HG317:5
Apparently God will soon cease to restrain the fallen angels, and they
will then proceed to vent their fury upon humanity, so that the whole
earth will be full of violence. R5470:4
When the end comes, it will find the earth in much the same state that it
was when the flood came in the days of Noah--unconverted. R2798:2*
There will be no outward sign to the world of the Lord's presence and when
he will begin to deal with them and set up his Kingdom. R5455:6, 2974:5
The ignorance of the impending trouble here will be similar to that of the
people of Noah's day. R2974:5
In the -- Not before his day, nor after his days, but in (during) his
days. B162
Days of the Son -- As the "days of Noah" were not days before Noah's
time, neither are the "days of the Son of Man" days before the Son of
Man's presence, but the days of his parousia, or presence--invisible and
unknown to the world; known only to the watchers, and seen by them only
with the eye of faith. R2974:5
Surely the days of the Son of Man are not before his days. R580:5, 264:3,
20:5
Clearly teaching that our Lord will be present in the end of this age,
entirely unknown to the world, and unseen by them. B162
Closing days of this Age, in which we are now living. R5696:2; T86
All Scriptures referring to this day point to the great time of trouble.
R5696:2
Luke 17:27
They -- Only Noah and his family knew; the people knew not. Similarly
now, the only ones who will know of his presence, or have a clear
apprehension of what or who is coming, or the outcome, will be the Lord's
people. Others will "know not." D606
The world in general was pursuing the ordinary, proper affairs of life,
ignorant of the impending catastrophe. R1874:1; D607
Did eat -- Proceeding with its usual affairs. HG305:4
The world's affairs will not be interrupted by his presence. NS200:3
These things are not signs of wickedness, but are mentioned to show us
that there will be no outward sign to indicate to the world the time of
the second presence of Christ. R5455:6, 4797:2, 2974:5, 349:1; B161;
NS7:6, 33:6
Without the slightest faith in the preaching of Noah. So, in the early
part of the Day of the Lord, the world, having no faith in the
announcement of his presence and of the impending trouble, will go on as
usual, giving no heed. B143 They were too busy to consider the testimony
carefully. B168
The world is going into large contracts, etc., quite unaware of how near
we are to the new arrangement, the incoming Kingdom. R5470:4
They did know when the flood came; and they will now know when every eye
shall behold him. HG24:6
The words of Paul, "Ye brethren are not in darkness that that day should
come upon you as a thief," indicate that the Church should possess a light
on the subject while the world would be in ignorance. (1 Thess. 5:4) R289:3
Not only does Jesus intimate that his coming and presence will be unknown
to the world, but that many of his servants will be so asleep and
overcharged with things of this world, that the day of the Lord will be
upon them as a snare. R123:4
They may have been wicked then, doubtless were, and may be similarly
wicked now, but wickedness is not the point of comparison. R580:5, 20:4;
B161
Married wives -- Producing giants--today known as the Sugar Trust, Coal
Trust, etc. As the giants were in control in the days of Noah, so the
giants are getting more and more control of the situation now. But we read
that they will be utterly destroyed; that there will be no hope of
resuscitation. R4797:5
Until the day -- The presence is not likened to the flood, or the days
of the flood, but to the days that were before the flood. NS200:4
Referring to his parousia, his presence before the apokalupsis, or
revealing in flaming fire or trouble. NS200:3
Let time be the last part of the "good news" and tell no one of the time
and presence, except they show that they have "an ear to hear." R216:6
There must needs be just such scoffing in the days of Jesus as was in the
days of Noah. R349:4; B167
Noe entered -- The Little Flock, typified by Noah, going from among men
into the condition of safety (from the coming storm), represented by the
ark--"one taken and another left." R188:4
Into the ark -- Type of Christ and the power in him which will replenish
and reorganize society. A318
The flood came -- Though there shall never be another flood to destroy
the earth (Gen. 9:11), it is written that the whole earth shall be
devoured with the fire of God's jealousy (Zeph. 3:8)--not the literal,
physical earth in either case, but the existing order of things in both
cases. B162
Contrary to the teachings of many modern theologians. A61
As the flood came suddenly, so would come the time of the ushering in of
the new dispensation. R4976:6
Destroyed them all -- Picturing that Messiah's Kingdom is to be
established upon the wreck of present institutions. R5455:6
Luke 17:28
They did eat -- Lot endeavored to get his relatives, married to

Sodomites, to flee with him. His words seemed to them like idle tales.
Even Lot and his family were so tedious that the angels laid hold of their
hands and urged them out. R228:6
Luke 17:29
The same day -- Emphasizing the suddenness with which the calamity will
overtake the world. R5456:1
Lot went out -- Called to go out before sunrise. R228:6
Those who, like Abraham, are the friends of God, will be far off from the
danger; others, not so faithful, will be in the full midst of the trouble,
yet, if loyal at heart to the Lord, will be delivered with great loss.
R2858:1
God tells his "friends," represented by Abraham, who live separate from
the world, of what is coming upon Sodom, and delivers the class who become
almost overcharged with the affairs of this life. R228:6
Of Sodom -- Christendom is "that great city [Babylon] which spiritually
is called Sodom." (Rev. 11:8) D608
Sodom sinned grievously, but they had little light, and practically no
knowledge of God. R5076:4
Fire -- "Sodom set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of
eternal [Greek, aionios, age-lasting] fire [destruction]. (Jude 7) R1618:2
Destroyed them all -- God saw good to make the destruction of the
Sodomites an example of the fate of sinners--death, not everlasting
torture. PD24/35
They were temporarily destroyed by fire as an example of the absolute
annihilation which ultimately will come upon all willful sinners, the
second death. But before any will be thus cut off, they must first be
brought to a full knowledge of the truth and have a full trial. R4599:5
It was not a preservative fire. HG222:6
Those Sodomites had no share in any day of judgment, except in the sense
that they were children of Adam, and by heredity they were condemned in
him and shared in his death sentence. OV43:2
The death of the Sodomites was merely the Adamic death, hastened; not the
second death. OV43:2
Yet the Sodomites were not so great sinners in his sight as were the Jews,
who had more knowledge. HG345:4; OV227:T; NS833:1
Why should not the Sodomites have an opportunity to reach perfection and
everlasting life, as well as Israel, or as any of us? A110; OV227:T
Why did not God send Abraham to preach to them? Why did he not give Lot a
commission to start a revival meeting? NS703:3
An example of the fate of sinners--death, not everlasting torture.
PD24/35; R4599:5
"If the mighty works which have been done in thee had been done in Sodom,
it would have remained unto this day." (Matt. 11:23) A110
"Sodom and her daughters shall return to their former estate" (Ezek.
16:55), implying their resurrection. R659:4, 545:5
Their temporary destruction is an illustration of the ultimate absolute
annihilation of all willful sinners in the second death. R4599:5
Luke 17:30
Even thus -- There was nothing special to alarm the antediluvians before
the day that Noah entered into the ark; nothing special to startle the men
of Sodom ere the fire from heaven fell. R661:6*
Therefore there could be no thought of such a thing as the conversion of
the world before the second advent. R1343:6*
Shall it be -- The similarity here pointed out is that of ignorance, not
wickedness. D606; R2974:5, 264:3
The Son of man -- Already present. D607
Is revealed -- Greek, apokalupsis. The judgments of the coming time of
trouble will begin as soon as the saints have all been changed. Thus the
Son of Man will be revealed a present Judge who already had for some time
been present sealing and gathering his "elect." R2979:4
The Greek text shows a difference between the parousia, or presence, of
Christ before the time of trouble, and the later epiphania, or revealing.
R5456:1
Now present and being revealed to the living members of the Little Flock,
though others know not of his presence. T86
Made manifest--first to his watching "virgins," later, in the trouble, to
all men. D607
"He shall be revealed in flaming fire." (2 Thess. 1:7,8) R5456:1
Luke 17:31
In that day -- Of his parousia, presence, before his revealing. R5456:2

He which shall be -- Members of the nominal household. R228:3
Upon the housetop -- Those nearest heaven, the most devoted and
consecrated ones, the jewels which the Lord says he will gather. R228:3
His stuff -- Individual interests centered in the organizations, such as
honor, respect, family ties, friendship. R228:3
In the house -- The nominal church. R229:5, 228:3
Not come down -- Some seek to take it with them; this involves delay,
and is dangerous. R228:5; 5456:4
To take it away -- Leave the stuff--sacrifice it in obedience to the
Lord's Word. R229:4, 5456:4
In the field -- In the world, not a church member. D574; R5456:4
Not return back -- Not join the nominal church. D574; R5456:4
Luke 17:32
Remember Lot's wife -- An injunction for the foolish virgins. C194

She began to remember her goods. R228:6
Lot and his family were not accused of sharing the evil practices of the
Sodomites. His wife's outward fault was merely that of looking back. We
may reasonably suppose that this implied a heart out of harmony with her
deliverance and in some degree sympathetic with the things God had
condemned. R1860:2, 5948:3
If we love the things behind so that we, with any degree, look back or
long for the evil things doomed to destruction in the coming trouble, it
will mean that we will not be worthy of having any part in the
The Lord's people, when they flee, shall not covetously look back to the
things which, under divine condemnation, are to pass away. R4706:2
Those who assume to be more gracious and long-suffering than the Lord make
of themselves opponents, who, instead of being students of the principles
of righteousness, attempt to be judges and teachers of Jehovah. R1860:2
Let us be of one mind with the Lord. His friends only must be our friends;
his enemies only our enemies. If we affiliate with the Lord's enemies we
will at least get into a lukewarm condition toward him and his friends;
and the lukewarm he will spew out of his mouth. R1861:1
While we should always be on the alert to render assistance wherever
needed, to convert a brother from the error of his ways, we should make no
such effort for him as would tend to make us fall from our own
steadfastness into the error of the wicked. R1860:3
Neither are we to waste sympathy upon those who depart. If we can neither
persuade them nor pull them out of the fire, we must let them go, and
should turn at once and render aid to others more worthy. R1860:6
Those who, under the special guidance of the Lord, are now fleeing for
safety to the Mountain of the Lord's Kingdom, will be held to a much
stricter account than are others. R5948:2, 1860:2
Applies particularly to the Lord's people who have "come out" of Babylon.
Let them not look back or otherwise manifest sympathy with that which is
condemned of the Lord to overthrow and destruction. R5949:3
How slight would be the appropriateness of this injunction if applied to
those who fled from Judea in AD 70; but how intensely forceful it is as a
caution to God's people now, in the close of the Gospel age. D607
"No man, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the
Kingdom of God." (Luke 9:62) C194
Jesus' reference authenticating the literal accuracy of the story of Lot's
wife turning into a pillar of salt. Q834:1
Who became a monument of the folly of sympathizing with evil and
evil-doers after God has given them up. R5948:3, 1861:4
Type of some who sympathize and fraternize with those who once enjoyed,
but have left, present truth and are condemned by the Lord. R5948:3, 1860:2
Type of the Great Company, more in sympathy with the things behind than
the things before. C194; D607, 608; R2858:1
The Lord's people will be tested along the line of their separation from
the spirit of the world. R2858:1
Luke 17:33
Seek to save -- By compromises of conscience and staying in Babylon. D607

His life -- Greek, psuche--soul, being. E336
Honor, reputation, friends, etc. R229:4
Shall lose it -- If, after made a partaker of the holy Spirit, tasting
the good word of God and the powers of the coming age, one should stifle
these blessed influences and turn again to the spirit of the world, he
would destroy his spiritual life. R1981:5, 859:6*
Shall lose his life -- Greek, psuche--soul, being. E336
Willingly sacrifice his life for the Lord's sake. R859:6*
Those who hold new title to the divine nature, have of course relinquished
all former claims to the perfect human nature. R859:6*
Shall preserve it -- We are on the race course for life, and must be
faithful unto death if we would receive the crown of life. R294:4
Luke 17:34
In that night -- Before the day has dawned, yet a part of that day.
R229:1
There shall be two -- This verse is omitted by Matthew. D608
In one bed -- A bed is a place in which to rest. It is here used to
represent the resting place of the Church--its belief or creed. R229:1;
D608
The same as the short one mentioned in Isa. 28:20. R513:6, 229:1; D608
One shall be taken -- Referring not to a change from natural to
spiritual bodies, but to a translation out of the kingdom of darkness into
the light and liberty of the Kingdom of light. R513:6
Not out of one "bed" into another of about the same size; not out of one
"mill" into another "mill." D610
Other shall be left -- Some will be so short that they will feel no
inconvenience, and others so sleepy and drowsy as to not notice the
matter. R229:2
There are two classes of Christians: one is to escape all these things
which are coming upon the earth; the other class is to be left in the
midst of these troubles. HG81:6
Luke 17:35
Women -- This word is spurious. D609

Grinding together -- Representing teachers seeking to prepare food for
the household of faith--some of these will be taken, others left to grind
on at the unsatisfying husks and chaff. R513:6, 229:4
Luke 17:36
In the field -- The field represents the world. R5456:4

Representing a condition outside the nominal "house"--outside of Babylon.
D609
Luke 17:37
And they -- The disciples. D610

Where, Lord? -- Where will these be taken? D610
The body is -- Carcass, dead body. The attraction is the point of the
illustration: as the eagles are, by an unerring instinct, sure to find the
carcass, so the Spirit in the saints will surely bring them to him whom
their soul loveth. R211:4*
The gathered and gathering ones come together because they "hunger and
thirst after righteousness" and they are finding the satisfying portion
which the Lord himself has provided, and each for himself is eating
thereof. D611
Carcass, food, the real food, a satisfying portion; away from the short
bed and from grinding the husks of human tradition. R513:6
The food of "present truth." D610
What causes the assembling together of the eagles from various quarters?
Hunger! R229:5
The eagles -- They live high up above the world, in the mountains,
far-seeing; having eyes adapted to looking at the light; representing
intelligently earnest Christians. R229:4
As the eagles seem instinctively, without call, noise or warning, to
assemble from every different point, near and far, so, we understand the
Lord to teach, will be our gathering together unto him. R114:2
Be gathered -- From the four winds of heaven--from every quarter of the
Church-- attracted as eagles are attracted, by food, for which they have a
keenness of vision and appetite. D610
Together -- Such as thus seek food find it and meet the others similarly
hungry and feed together. R229:5
Luke 18
Luke 18:1
A parable -- A word-picture designed to illustrate some truth. Not

necessarily a statement of the facts, but merely a suppositionary case. In
a parable the thing said is never the thing meant literally. R5707:3
Always to pray -- The thought of the abiding presence of the Father and
the Son is that their thought and care and interest will be constantly
upon us, and that at any instant we may engage the special attention of
either or both. R1865:2
True faith makes sure of its ground by giving careful heed to the Lord's
Word; and then, asking according to that Word, it has confidence in the
results, and waits and prays and watches, perseveringly and patiently.
R2005:5
After we have made sure that our prayers are in accord with the promises,
those things which lie very close to our hearts become our continual
prayers. R4983:5
We are to recognize a distinct difference between this and the vain
repetitions of the heathen, which our Lord condemned--merely formal
prayers, which are reprehensible in the Lord's sight. R5020:1,4; Q539:2
Not that they should never get off their knees, nor never do anything
except pray, but that they should continue in their prayers and not grow
faint or disheartened. R5310:3
Teaching continuity in prayer--not merely that we pray once, and then say,
"I have prayed about this matter, and now I will leave it." R5708:3
God wishes us to be persistent, and our persistence measures and indicates
the depth of our desires. R2865:6
Pray perseveringly. R5381:2*, 5310:6
Scripture examples fully warrant all-night prayer meetings, even for
several days, such as our Lord's remaining all night in the mountain in
prayer, and his long and repeated prayers at Gethsemane. R4347:2
Those who believe little of the Lord's promises, who trust him little,
will pray to him little, will exercise little faith, and will have little
joy and blessing in consequence. R3841:6
No amount of praying will make up for a neglect of a study of the Lord's
Word. R5709:5
For eighteen hundred years the Church has been praying for deliverance,
and God has not answered this prayer. But he will. Q539:3
We pray unceasingly, "Thy kingdom come," not by repeating the words every
moment, but by continuing the thought, the expectation, the waiting for
it, and by laboring in the interests of that Kingdom. R5709:5
Our prayers will not bring God's Kingdom one minute sooner than he has
planned, but we pray by way of assuring the Lord that we are waiting for
the Kingdom and expecting it in harmony with his sure promise. R5710:4,
5020:2, 2005:6
Other requests, for daily food, succor in temptation and deliverance from
the evil one, have been promptly answered. R2005:6
Prayer is required, not to change God's plans, but to bring our hearts
into such a condition as will prepare us to receive and appreciate the
blessings God has freely promised. R1972:5
Whoever has not become a new creature has no privilege of prayer whatever.
R5310:6
There is a difference between worship--adoration, homage, expressing
thanks--which anyone may do; but making requests of God in prayer is a
limited privilege. R5379:1
To be in the attitude of prayer at all times, full of thanksgiving to God.
Q542:T; R5203:6
"Continuing instant in prayer." (Rom. 12:12) R1865:2, 5481:3
Delay in answering our request may be because it is not his due time; or
he may want to develop in us faith and patient endurance. R5020:2, 3664:6
We should prayer for strength and wisdom to overcome the flesh and develop
the fruits and graces of the holy Spirit. R5708:5
Prayer is absolutely indispensable to Christian growth and spiritual
existence. R5709:4
Asking only for the things pleasing to God. R5708:1
That we may have God's sentiment, mind and will, as our sentiment, mind
and will. R5709:2
We cannot come too often to the throne of heavenly grace, or tarry too
long. R1865:3, 5311:5
And not to faint -- Yield. R2005:5
Grow disheartened and discouraged because of the delay in the answer.
R3841:1, 5310:3
Grow weary, hopeless, faithless. R4983:5
Used in the sense of faint-heartedness--"Consider Jesus lest ye be weary
and faint in your minds," "for in due season we shall reap, if we faint
not." (Heb. 12:3; Gal. 6:9) R5710:1
Patiently waiting for the Lord's due time, faithfully trusting him that he
is willing to give the blessing which he promised, even though he may for
a time withhold it with a view to our becoming the more earnest in seeking
it. R2865:6
God has the blessing and not only is able to give it, but has promised to
do so. The delay in granting the request is because his due time has not
come. Hence we are not to become weary, but to be constant in our prayers.
R5020:2
It may be that, while we are praying, the Lord is not only preparing us
for the blessing, but also preparing the circumstances and conditions
which will bring us these opportunities and privileges in the best form.
R3664:6
Our heavenly Father may will to bring us into such a condition of heart
that we can appreciate his blessing. It may be God's will to delay the
answer for our highest good. R5203:3
Not grow disheartened and discouraged because of delay in the answer.
R3841:1, 5310:3
Have unwavering faith in God's willingness to give us his best gifts.
R5481:3
One reason for delay in answering us is to test the strength and depth of
our desires. R4983:5
After we have prayed for a certain thing, we should continue to keep it
before our mind. R5311:5
By delaying the answer, God may want to bring us into such a condition of
heart that we can appreciate his blessing. R5203:3, 3841:1
Jacob wrestled all night with the angel, unwilling to let him go until he
blessed him. R2865:5
Luke 18:2
A judge -- In olden times judges were to a large degree lawmakers as

well as executives. R3841:1
Judges in oriental countries are notoriously corrupt and ready to violate
public opinion in the attainment of selfish ends. R3841:1
Luke 18:3
Avenge me -- As with the Church at the present time, we realize that we

are suffering injustice. Q539:3
Luke 18:5
I will avenge -- So careful of his own convenience, that he would give

her justice lest, by her continual coming, she would annoy him. R3586:6
Although he cared little for the principle itself. R5310:2, 3841:2
The woman's persistency illustrated what Jesus wished to emphasize. R5708:1
Luke 18:6
Unjust judge -- Not that the Heavenly Father is an unjust judge, nor
that the Church is a widow. R5708:1
Luke 18:7
Shall not God -- This parable does not compare this unjust judge with
our heavenly Father. On the contrary, it contrasts the two. R3841:2
If an unjust judge be moved on account of importunity to do justice, how
much more a just judge! R5020:1, 3841:2, 3586:6; Q539:2
Implying that the prayers are proper ones for the Lord to answer. In
prayer we should make sure we ask only for the things pleasing to him.
Christians who live near to God are the best qualified to offer acceptable
prayer. R5708:1
Who is not unjust, and whose only object in delaying answer to our prayers
is to work out for us a blessing of increased faith and trust. R3841:1
Avenge his own elect -- Although he has permitted them to be maligned,
slandered, misrepresented, for over eighteen centuries, the time will come
when he will give them justice, when he will exalt them. R3586:6, 2920:4
Injustice will not forever obtain. The time will come, as we are told,
when Satan shall be bound and deceive the people no more. (Rev. 20:2,3)
Q539:3
Which cry -- "O Lord, deliver us! deliver us from the adversary!"
R5020:1; Q539:3
When his children thus cry to him, our Heavenly Father is sure to hear
their prayers. R5708:1
Not with a hope of changing the Almighty, altering any of his plans and
arrangements, but because they believe his promises and desire to assure
their hearts in prayer that the Father has a due time for deliverance.
R3841:3
As illustrated by the Syro-Phoenician woman's importunity. R2653:5
This implies that the prayers are proper ones for the Lord to answer.
R5708:1
Though he bear long -- Though he manifest no special haste in the
matter, have confidence in God and in his promise that eventually the
right shall triumph. R3841:3
If the answer be not quickly forthcoming, we neither conclude that God is
an unjust judge, nor is selfishly careless of our interests except as we
would bother him, but is as a loving heavenly parent. R3841:2
If the Lord shall not see best to grant a prompt response, we may be sure
that it is not from lack of interest in our welfare. R2653:4 18:8
He will avenge -- According to their deeds, he will repay recompense to
his enemies. He will render unto Babylon a recompense. (Isa. 59:18; Jer.
51:6) D39
Taken as a whole, the lesson to the Lord's people through this parable is
that we are to have patience and not attempt to render vengeance upon our
opposers. R3841:6
In the time of trouble. D39
"Avenge not yourselves. Vengeance is mine." (Rom. 12:19) "The day of
vengeance is in my heart." (Isa. 63:4) R3841:5
Speedily -- Either that, when the Lord's time shall come, he will make a
short work with the great Adversary, or that the Lord will not really long
delay in bringing in his Kingdom of righteousness. R3841:4
"A day with the Lord is as a thousand years." (2Pet. 3:8) From this
standpoint the whole period would be less than two days. What we need
today is to take the Lord's standpoint in viewing matters. R3841:4
Nevertheless -- A separate and distinct point from the parable. R3841:4
When the Son of man cometh -- Is present. R2875:5
For the establishment of his Kingdom. Then the true faith would be
seriously lacking, almost extinct, just as at the first advent. R3841:4
Shall he find faith -- The faith. Q775:2; D592
The faith in this text would have the meaning of a system of belief or
doctrines, as expressed in the Bible statement, "The faith once delivered
to the saints." (Jude 3) Q775:2
This great falling away was predicted for the end of this age, and it
therefore becomes another sign of the times. HG317:5, 369:5; R2875:5;
D592; NS426:5
The intimation is that faith will somehow or other be on the decrease at
that time. HG146:5
It would appear that, with more advantages than any previous generation,
ours has less faith in God and less trust in the Bible as His Word. HG662:5
Associating these words with the parable foregoing, the implication is
that the Church will not actually be helped until the first resurrection,
at the Master's second advent. R3841:5
Perhaps a warning to his believers not to be lacking in faith as a guard
against worldly influences; perhaps a declaration that the time would come
when faith would become weak and small; or perhaps the pleading voice of a
loving Master who would win our loyalty by suggesting the possibility of
our failing in devotion. R3118:3*
The comparatively small results of our efforts to reach the ripe wheat in
Babylon convince us, all the more, that the wheat is very scarce in
comparison with the tares. R2740:3
Very scarce at present; and as the higher critics proceed, and as the
evolution theories spread, faith in God and in his Word becomes more and
more vague and lifeless. R2898:5
The Lord would permit or send strong delusions, that nominal professors,
lacking the spirit of the truth, should be deceived. NS426:6
Reasons within the church: Higher Criticism, pulpit themes, the ways of
the church and the neglect of parents to bring up their children in the
nurture and admonition of the Lord; outside of the church: the character
of the present strife for wealth, the love of pleasure, ease and
self-indulgence, unrest under authority, the prevalence of suicide and the
ready acceptance of the various forms of new thought. R3118:5*
Following the guidance of so-called Higher Critics, the rank and file of
professors of colleges have lost their faith. Having lost faith in the
Bible themselves, they think they are doing a real service in destroying
the faith of others. HG662:6
Because our wise men tell us that the Bible is unreliable, that Christ's
death was not redemptive, that future happiness depends upon cultivation
of our mental and moral qualities and that Shakespeare and other writings
are quite as good as the Bible. R2695:1
Because of the denial of the fall of man, and consequently the redemption
from the fall by the precious blood of Christ. R1794:5
Higher criticism, evolution, worldly philosophy are undermining the faith
of God's people, so that they are not believing nearly as much as their
fathers did of God, his power and his character. HG146:5
Owing to the hundreds of conflicting creeds and doctrinal systems; the
many "isms" and the strong delusions and multiplied errors. Q775:2
Contrary to the concept of world conversion before the second advent.
R3004:3
The world will be far from being in a blessed condition at the Lord's
These are the "perilous times" mentioned by the Apostle in 2 Thess.
2:10-12 and 2 Tim. 3:1-5. R2875:5
Not flourishing--not predominating. R2693:2
Evidently not to any great extent. It surely is very scarce at present.
R1794:5, 2898:5
Implying that then the true faith would be difficult to find; almost
extinct. R2740:3, 3841:4
Luke 18:9
Unto certain -- Illustrated in our day by so-called "Holiness People,"

who claim they have not sinned for years. F157
They were righteous -- Outwardly, they were very correct; but with many
of them religion was a ceremony and the keeping of the law an outward
obedience, which did not extend to the heart. R5464:1
Because their religious system was in advance of every other religious
system in the world, the learned attributed a like superiority to
themselves individually. R5926:3
Israel never fully appreciated the requirements of their Law Covenant,
which no one but a perfect man could fulfil. R2121:3
There is a similar class in Christendom today, who are outwardly moral,
very particular, exact, scrupulous, and yet not pleasing to the Lord. They
are proud of their righteousness. R3841:6
Some today trust in church membership, their benevolences and general
morality, for salvation, ignoring the fact that all are sinners. R5464:3
Despised others -- A loveless sentiment which despised others and
boasted of self, a self-satisfied and complacent condition of mind and
heart, very reprehensible to the Lord, a condition of heart unready to be
blessed with divine mercy. R2592:1
This was the secret of Israel's blindness to the Gospel. The religious
leaders relied so implicitly upon their interpretations that they could
not regard the humble Nazarene and his unlearned followers except as
imposters. R5926:3
They had forms of righteousness, outward obedience to God and his laws,
and piety and sanctity in outward appearance. R3360:1
Luke 18:10
A Pharisee -- A moral man, in many respects a good man, but very

conscious of all his righteous deeds and perfunctory observances of divine
rules. R3842:1
In our Lord's parables he dealt chiefly with the Pharisees and the
publicans: for the Sadducees were Jews in name only, not believing the
Scriptures nor expecting a future life. R5464:1
A publican -- Of a lower class, who did not profess holiness, but
confessed estrangement from God. R5464:1, 3842:1
Disesteemed by the Pharisees as no longer Jews nor heirs of the Covenant
promises. R3848:6
Luke 18:11
The Pharisee -- Illustrating the lack of the quality of humility. R3842:6

Presenting the extremes of conceit, selfishness and hypocrisy. R1972:1
Prayed -- It was merely self-adulation. R3842:2
Unlike lip prayers, heart prayers are always accompanied by efforts of
life in harmony with the prayer. R1972:5
His prayer was not the kind the Father invites: "Worship . . . in spirit
and in truth." (John 4:23, 24) R3842:1
With himself -- Apparently his prayers did not ascend to the Lord, and
it would be strictly true to say that he prayed with himself--heard
himself pray, congratulated himself in the prayer, and rejoiced in his own
self-consciousness generally. R3842:1
I am not -- There are many approaches to this disposition which give
sure signs that those who have and who are cultivating them will by and by
mature the same kind of fruit unless they change their course. R1972:1
Trusted in his own imperfect works and asked no forgiveness. R5464:2,
3842:2
As other men -- It is the intoxication that comes from imbibing the
spirit of the world that leads to that foolish boasting of which man in
his sober senses would be ashamed. R1972:2
Under false teachings, many professed Christians are indulging in false
hopes, in thinking they are the Lord's people without having consecrated
themselves to be his followers. NS410:4
All Christians, by virtue of their relation to God, have every reason to
give thanks to the Lord that they differ from the majority of their
fellow-creatures; but they have nothing whereof to boast. R3842:1
As this publican -- The first thing for all such to learn is what
constitutes a sinner from God's standpoint. In consequence of heredity,
all are sinners, all are imperfect. NS410:5
Who realized his blemishes, and prayed for mercy. R5464:2
Luke 18:12
I fast twice -- Going beyond anything that the Law required. He

doubtless felt he was to be specially commended therefore. R3842:3
If we were to fast, starve ourselves to death, it would not be
meritorious. No works can be of value except as based upon proper
recognition of our own imperfections and proper acceptance of divine
justification. R3842:3
Self denials of food are not the most estimable in God's sight. There are
other desires of the flesh we are to strive to control, diminish and
starve out, that we might proportionately flourish, be nourished
spiritually and made strong. R3842:4
I give tithes -- Proper enough, but the followers of Jesus are expected
to consecrate their all to the Lord. How little the most energetic is able
to accomplish! R3842:4
He was trusting in his own works of the flesh and was, therefore, as a
Pharisee, rejecting the imputed righteousness of the Atonement Day
sacrifices. R3842:2
A tenth of their increase was rendered to the priests. God has left
spiritual Israel without any specific instructions of this kind. R2542:1,
3842:4, 2486:3, 2485:1
Giving one-tenth was nothing to boast of when it is remembered that the
Lord is the bountiful giver of all good. R3842:4
Instead of merely one-tenth, we lay our little all upon the Lord's altar
in consecration. R2486:4,5, 3842:4 18:13
The publican -- Illustrating the quality of humility. R3842:6
Afar off -- He did not approach close to the holy precincts of the
Temple. He recognized the great difference between God's perfection and
his own personal unworthiness. R3842:5
Would not lift up -- The weight of sin was upon him. He could not look
up to heaven. R5464:2
Smote upon his breast -- Upon his heart, indicating that he accepted the
divine sentence of death as well-deserved and merited. R3842:5 Be merciful
-- The simplicity of childhood, realizing its need, confesses it and asks
mercy, instead of attempting to deceive itself by philosophizing. R1972:5
Somehow the unreasonable idea prevails that this prayer for a moment
preceding the last gasp of life would change the eternal destiny of that
person from the roads of ruin to the fields of Paradise and glory.
NS575:2, 688:5
Humbly realizing his own unworthiness. R3842:5, 5464:2, 3836:1
This prayer, approved by our Lord, did not address Jehovah as "Father,"
but as God. R2251:3
A sinner -- We all come short of perfection and need divine mercy. The
sinner who recognizes this is more pleasing to God and nearer to
forgiveness than the more moral person who fails to see his blemishes.
R5464:2
If you do to the very best of your ability you will get a great lesson as
to your inability to do perfectly. Q797:6
Prayers need not be lengthy, but they must be sincere, from the heart, and
not a lip service. Heart prayers are always accompanied by efforts of life
in harmony with the prayers; while lip prayers are usually in
contradiction of the living epistle. R1972:5
Luke 18:14
This man -- The less moral, less scrupulously careful man. R4987:2
Justified -- He was more nearly in a justified condition than the
Pharisee. They were both in a condition of partial justification, like all
the Jews; both were in a condition of tentative justification. Q699:3
Inwardly more acceptable to the Father. R3842:5
More acceptable because of his acknowledgment of sin. CR413:3; R3842:5;
Q699:3
We must continue to admit our own imperfection, our need of mercy, and to
trust in the precious blood, if we would continue to be "justified."
R1972:4
Both classes are still represented in the world, amongst Christians.
R5464:3
Than the other -- From God's standpoint, both men were sinners, both
needed forgiveness. R5464:2
That exalteth himself -- The quality of pride is specially abominable to
the Lord, because there is not a creature in the universe that has
anything to be proud of. Everything that everyone has is a gift; it is not
of his own manufacture or creation. R4898:2
What have we that we have not received from the Lord? Who hath made us to
differ? (1 Cor. 4:7) R3842:2
Pride signifies self-satisfaction, and the corresponding ignoring of the
all-sufficiency of our glorious Head, who said to us, "Without me ye can
do nothing." (John 15:5) R3942:6
The besetting danger of spiritual pride. R5955:6
Shall be abased -- He that exalteth himself is not to be exalted by the
Church; for he will not be exalted by the Lord. R5322:4; F296
As illustrated by Satan. A189
What degradation can await such self-exaltation as is shown in the
utterances of the Papacy! B313
Humbleth himself -- As Christ did, to become man's Redeemer. E425
Pride, in its every form, should be so thoroughly humiliated, killed, that
it can never rise again to destroy us. R4898:5
Shall be exalted -- He that humbleth himself will be exalted, either by
the vote of the congregation, or by the Lord's will. R5322:4
"Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that he may
exalt you in due time." (1 Pet. 5:6) R3079:2, 5955:6
This is God's rule, and blessing will come to us along that line or not at
all. R1537:4
Luke 18:15
Infants -- To enforce the teaching of the Pharisee and the publican, our
Lord calls attention to the beautiful, artless simplicity of childhood as
a pattern of what all must be who would enter the Kingdom of God. R1972:2
Luke 18:17
Feeling that the Lord's time was too valuable to be thus used. R5362:1
Luke 18:16
Suffer -- Permit. R5362:1, 4853:4

Little children -- The great Teacher was a lover of children. R5362:1
Of such -- Not as a little child in stature, nor in blankness of
undeveloped character, but in humility, simplicity, guilelessness. "Be not
children in knowledge [character], howbeit in malice be ye children." (1
Cor. 14:20) R2063:2
The joint-heirs of Messiah's Kingdom will all be childlike, teachable,
simple, trustful, obedient children of God. R4853:4, 5362:2
Kingdom of God -- The Kingdom is now ours by faith, in the same way we
have every other heavenly blessing. R397:4
Luke 18:17
Receive the kingdom -- Receive the message of the Kingdom. R5362:2

As a little child -- Trusting the Lord implicitly, as a little child
would trust its earthly parent. R2671:1
The simplicity of childhood, realizing its need, confesses it and asks
mercy, instead of attempting to deceive itself by philosophizing. R1972:5
They may be old in years and gray-headed, but their hearts are young and
preserve the sweet simplicity of childhood. R1972:2
Luke 18:18
A certain ruler -- Probably a publican or tax-gatherer. R1783:3

Supposed by some to have been Lazarus, whom Jesus later awakened from the
dead. R3529:1
Asked him -- He was anxious for a perfect conformity to the will of God;
and so anxious that he manifested his willingness to bear reproach for it
in thus coming to Jesus. R1774:6
Notwithstanding the persecuting spirit of the rulers and teachers in
Israel against the Lord and all who believed in the validity of his
claims, he came to him openly and saluted him with reverence due to so
great a teacher. R1774:3
What shall I do -- Indicating a realization that by deeds of the law no
flesh had yet gained the life the law promised for obedience. R1774:3
Indicating most commendable candor and faith in the teacher. R1774:3
Luke 18:19
Jesus said -- Our Lord, while dismissing the self-satisfied,

fault-finding quibbles of the Pharisees with dark or evasive answers, took
time and care in making truth clear and plain to the humble, earnest
seekers. B27
Illustrating the great difficulty of getting a full, fair view of one's
self, the value of every applied test of character. R1774:2
Callest thou me good -- Are you addressing me as Good Master only as a
complimentary salutation? If you really believe me to be good, you must
believe in me as the sent of God. If my testimony is untrue in any
particular, I am not good at all, but a falsifier, hypocrite, blasphemer.
R2727:6
Everything really good must be of God and in accordance with God. R5465:2,
4658:3
Luke 18:20
The commandments -- The Law Covenant was still in force. It had not yet
been "nailed to his cross." (Col. 2:14) R3843:2, 5465:3
Luke 18:21
Have I kept -- Was living an exemplary life, but was merely doing his
duty. R5438:6
He was a sincere Pharisee. R5464:2
From my youth -- Sought to fashion his character to the precepts of the
divine law. R1774:3
Luke 18:22
Lackest thou one thing -- There is none so perfect that he lacks

nothing. R1775:4
There was a lack: his attitude, though he did not realize it, was not that
of entire consecration to the will of God. R1774:6
Sell all -- All thy possessions, all thy time, all thy reputation, all
that hitherto has been dear to thee. R1775:1
One who believes that every dollar belongs to God, and is to be used by
him, will not imagine that he has discharged all obligation by giving a
tenth to the Lord. R1045:1
It may be quite true that giving one dollar now out of your capital would
prevent you giving five dollars fifteen years hence. But one dollar now
may be worth ten dollars fifteen years later. R1045:4
In the present age this implies self-sacrifice and daily cross-bearing in
imitation of Christ. R1774:6
Distribute -- To follow Christ is not to make unwise disposition of our
possessions and talents, but as wise and faithful stewards, to use them to
the best possible advantage in his service. R1775:1
Unto the poor -- Not necessarily with the bread that perisheth, but
first, rather, to feed the spiritually hungry with the bread of life.
R1775:2
If there were a famine in the land, it would be folly to grind up all the
seed-corn for food. But if, after feeding their families, the farmers were
to put all the increase back into the ground while the world was starving,
it would be worse than foolish, it would be criminal. R1045:4
"Love is the fulfilling of the Law." (Rom. 13:10) R2728:1
Treasure in heaven -- Received of the Father, begotten of the holy
Spirit. R5438:6
Joint-heirship with me in the Messianic Kingdom. R5438:6
Come, follow me -- Following closely in his footsteps will bring
ingratitude and even persecution, as it did to our Master. R1775:1
Luke 18:23
He was very sorrowful -- He loved self more than either God or his
neighbor. R1774:6
Let no man deceive himself by saying: "I will give when I have amassed
wealth. I desire money that I may do good with it; but I will not give
now, that I may give the more largely in the future." R1045:5
We hear nothing of his subsequent conversion, but in all probability he
remained in sympathy with the Jewish teachers and partook more and more of
their spirit of opposition to Christ and his teaching. R1774:6
Was very rich -- The Lord sought to show what was the weak spot in his
character. R1774:6
Luke 18:24
He was very sorrowful -- No doubt the heart of Jesus was sad also when
he saw the blight of selfishness and self-will attacking that promising
half-blown rose of character. R1774:6
How hardly -- Though difficult, it is not impossible. A man can have
riches and use them conscientiously as a sacrificer. R1775:2
That have riches -- Whether those riches be of reputation, fame,
learning, money, or even common ease. HG716:6
Because of faith in their wealth instead of in God, because of the pride
which riches foster, because of the friends which riches bring, and
because of the proportionately larger sacrifices which must be made.
R2729:1
If a Christian grows rich, it should be with fear and trembling. It is
more dangerous than dynamite. R1045:5*
The kingdom of God -- Used interchangeably with "kingdom of heaven."
(See Matt. 19:24) R397:1
The Body of Christ; certainly not the nominal church, for rich men find
very little difficulty in getting into it. R2761:3
Luke 18:25
A needle's eye -- A small gate in the walls of ancient cities for the
convenience of belated travelers after sundown, after the main city gates
were closed. These needle-eyes were so low that camels could enter them
only upon their knees and after being stripped of their burdens. R2762:3
Rich man to enter -- He cannot get into the Kingdom at all except as he
strips himself of his riches, sacrificing them and devoting them to the
Lord. R2762:1
Kingdom of God -- The Church is the Kingdom now, only in the prospective
sense. R397:4
Luke 18:27
Possible with God -- He has made provision for the rich young ruler and
all the families of the earth, under his established Kingdom. R3845:1
If a rich disciple be honest-hearted and humble, the Lord can show him how
to wisely use his wealth, or else may strip him of it, to fit him for the
Kingdom. R5466:2
Luke 18:28
We have left all -- The Lord communicated to them a measure of his

spirit and power--the equivalent to much that is now granted to the
spirit-begotten ones of this age. R4909:1,2
Luke 18:29
He said unto them -- The special light of both harvests is for the
Israelites indeed. B26, 27
That hath left house -- The harvest is not a time for peace, but on the
contrary it will surely produce separation and alienations between true
wheat and all else. R969:6
We are not to get the mistaken idea from this that the Lord wishes us to
sacrifice others. It would be wrong to deprive our families of necessary
comforts and temporal provisions; but having provided these, the surplus
is the Lord's. R3845:5
Kingdom of God's sake -- Fathers, mothers, sons and daughters, brothers
and sisters, will oppose and seek to separate you from the truth and its
service. R969:5
Luke 18:30
Manifold more -- The more we leave, the more we sacrifice, the greater
our reward, both now and hereafter. R3845:3
Those who sacrifice nothing need expect no reward. Those who receive
little of the Lord in the present life and have small hope of a share in
the Kingdom, are those who have sacrificed little for his sake. R3845:3
The world to come -- The Millennial age. HG12:4
Luke 18:33
Put him to death -- The treatment due the vilest of

criminals--crucifixion. R5483:2
He shall rise again -- Incomprehensible to the disciples, and dismissed
as a dark saying. R5483:2
Luke 18:35
He was come nigh -- With our Lord and his apostles was a considerable
number of friends, together with numerous Pharisees. R3847:6
A blind man -- Bartimeus. R3847:6
Physical blindness is a terrible affliction, but how much more serious is
mental and spiritual blindness. These are cut off by false doctrine from
the ability to see the grandeur of the divine character and plan. R3848:2
These are blind and cannot see afar off--they can merely see the affairs
of the present life with its eating and drinking, planting and building,
laughing and crying, living and dying. R3848:2
"The god of this world hath blinded the minds of them that believe not."
(2 Cor. 4:4) R3848:2
Sat by the way side -- Hoping to excite the sympathy of the passers-by.
R3847:6
Begging -- In those days there was no special provision for the blind,
and there were many of them in those parts. R3847:6
Luke 18:38
Thou son of David -- "The Lord shall give him the throne of his father,
The long-promised King of David's line, the Messiah. PD65/77; C257;
R3847:6; SM210:2
Luke 18:39
Rebuked him -- When the spiritually blind cry for help, there are sure
to be some, even amongst the Lord's friends, to rebuke them instead of to
encourage. R2730:4
Hold his peace -- Intimating that the great Teacher should not be
interrupted by a wayside beggar. R3847:6
The thought is suggested to such that there are many more worthy than
themselves to have the Master's attention, that they are too
insignificant, too sinful for him to recognize. R3848:3
So much the more -- The persistency which belongs to true faith. R3848:1
Luke 18:40
To be brought -- He did not shout for him to come, but commanded, "Let
him be brought." R3847:6
Giving those about him an opportunity to share in the work of blessing.
R2729:3
Luke 18:41
What wilt thou -- Many today, when asked this question, request riches,
honors of men or temporal blessings of some sort. R3848:4
Luke 18:42
Thy faith hath saved thee -- He was of a sincere heart, and was
persistent. R3848:1
Luke 18:43
Received his sight -- There were many blind men throughout Palestine,
yet only comparatively few received such a blessing; undoubtedly because
few had the requisite faith. R3848:1
Illustrating some at the present time who are brought to the Lord and
graciously receive the opening of the eyes of their understanding. R3848:3
Such do receive enlightenment, and enlightenment by which they can see Him
who is the Way, the Truth and the Life. R3848:4
Only the great Physician is able to open the eyes of the understanding.
R2730:4
Glorifying God -- An evidence that he was of sincere heart. R3848:1
All the people -- So today, when one comes to a knowledge of the divine
character and plan, all who are in accord with the Lord are not only ready
to assist them to the Lord, but ready also to join in praise on their
behalf. R3848:5
Luke 19
Luke 19:2
There was a man -- Several observations in this narrative claim our

special attention: (1) the desire and earnest effort of the publican to
learn of Jesus; (2) the courage and generous kindness of the Lord in
running against the popular current of public sentiment to bless an
outcast from the public favor; (3) the proper attitude of heart in coming
to Jesus, as illustrated in the publican; and (4) the reward of obedient
faith. R1783:2
Zacchaeus -- His name in the Hebrew comes from a root signifying pure,
and the inference is not unreasonable that his ancestors had been noble
and holy people. R2730:6
Apparently a prominent and wealthy citizen. R3848:5
Not a Pharisee. He did not profess holiness of life. He was one of those
condemned and ostracized by the Pharisees. R5464:4
The chief -- Probably employing under-collectors to assist him in his
contract. R2730:3
A prominent one amongst them, and rich. R3848:6
The publicans -- He had accepted a minor office under the Roman
government; he was a tax collector for the Romans, a publican. On this
account he was despised, and declared to be disloyal to Judaism. R5464:5,
3848:6, 2730:2, 1783:3
A disreputable class amongst their own people, esteemed as financially
immoral, and unworthy of the confidence and honor of faithful Jews. R2730:3
To be a publican came to signify an irreligious, unpatriotic, unscrupulous
character. R3848:6
And he was rich -- Some of his wealth having, no doubt, been dishonestly
acquired. R3848:6
Luke 19:3
Sought to see Jesus -- Evidently it was not a lukewarm curiosity. R1783:3

Probably he had qualms of conscience respecting his business and business
methods, and a longing for peace with God. R2730:3
Probably he had heard that, unlike the Pharisees, this great Teacher did
not spurn publicans and sinners, but, on the contrary, treated them
kindly. R2730:3
It is a hopeful sign when we see any desiring to have clearer views of the
Lord or his Word or his plan. R3849:1
For the press -- There was a throng at this season, going up to the
Passover, and so notable a person as Jesus would always be an attraction.
R2730:3
Little of stature -- Though one may feel himself sadly short of the
stature of a man in Christ, if he has in his heart a longing desire for
righteousness and to behold the Lord's face, he will find opportunity to
do so. R2731:4
Luke 19:4
Ran before -- We admire the courage of this little rich man, ordinarily
probably dignified enough in his bearing, but now running along like a boy
and climbing the tree. R2730:6
Climbed up -- And sat on one of its branches over the road. R3849:1
Luke 19:5
When Jesus came -- Possibly by that power of knowledge which is beyond

our comprehension, or possibly by reason of hearing the crowd jeer and
laugh at the little rich publican in his lugubrious position. R2730:6
And said unto him -- So he would have his followers "mind not the high
things"--popular ideas, methods, etc.--"but condescend to men of low
estate"--the despised, the poor and the unpopular. (Rom. 12:16) R1783:5,
1104:3*
Is your former pride crucified, so that you would not be ashamed to be
seen with that coarse, uncouth neighbor, or to be called her friend, if
thereby you can feed her with the bread of life? R1104:3*
Today I must -- And the disciples also, we may presume. R2730:6
So great an honor as this Zacchaeus had not dreamed of, and the multitude
of Jews were likewise surprised. R2730:6
We have here evidences of the Lord's knowledge of what is in man, that he
reads the heart and makes no mistakes. R3849:2
We find today some backsliders, living in a measure of sin, in business
which they admit is unjust. We are not to pass them by with the Gospel
message if any such manifest an interest, but are to seek to assist them.
R2731:4
Abide at thy house -- Perhaps in part to give the Pharisees a lesson, as
well as to provide for his own entertainment. R2730:6
Our Lord showed courage and generous kindness by thus running against
popular public sentiment. R1783:2
A sinner -- Being cast off from the sympathies and friendship of the
Jews in general, publicans were naturally less influenced by their
Luke 19:8
Zacchaeus stood -- In the presence of his own family, in the presence of

Jesus and his disciples, and probably numerous friends and neighbors.
R2731:1
Nor was he content merely to determine upon reform in his heart. He would
seal the matter by a public confession. R2731:1
Evidently the murmuring reached his ears, for forthwith he addressed the
Lord in self-defence--as though urging that these charges against him
should not hinder the Master from coming to be his guest. R5464:5
Said unto the Lord -- The rich Zacchaeus had been soundly converted.
R2735:2
Making a full surrender of his heart, that henceforth he would not only
forsake sin and evil customs, but so far as possible would make
restitution for wrong doing and injustice. R3849:2
Lord -- His acceptance of Jesus as his Lord, his teacher. R5464:5
Half of my goods -- Not merely a half of his annual income, but a half
of all the principle. R3849:4
Our reasonable service should surely be more than the one-tenth of the
Jews. The hymn expresses our sentiments: "All my little life I give thee,
use it, Lord in ways of thine." R3849:4
To the poor -- Probably to off-set many cases of small injustices which
it would be impossible for him to ever correct in detail. R2731:1
Taken any thing -- The methods of collecting the taxes were frequently
along the lines of extortion. R3848:3
False accusation -- Publicly acknowledging that he had gained part of
his wealth by unjust exactions. R2731:1
I restore -- Not "I have restored fourfold," but "I will restore
fourfold." R3849:3
When he did so, the change, the conversion, the transformation of life,
must have been appreciable, even by the most unsympathetic of Zacchaeus'
neighbors. R2731:4
The intimation is that Zacchaeus was more than ordinarily upright as a
publican, otherwise to have restored fourfold would of itself have ruined
a large fortune. R3849:3
Many today make a great mistake in not following the course of Zacchaeus
in that they continually hold on to something which really belongs to
another; and secondly, they do not consecrate more of their wealth to the
Lord. R3849:4
Sincere reformation today must be like that of Zacchaeus; it must make
some outward manifestation expressive of contrition and of a desire to
make reparation to the extent of ability. R2731:5
Fourfold -- Probably this interest was measured by him by the amount of
former extortions. R1783:6
The conversion that includes recompense--and that not merely in a skimped
manner, but abundantly--four-fold--undoubtedly signifies a true
conversion. R2731:4
Zacchaeus consecrated one-half of his possessions to the poor, and out of
what remained he would make good fourfold, and still he hoped a reasonable
competence would be left. R3849:3 Far exceeding the requirements of the
Law. R3849:4
To undo any damage done to others, with large interest. R1783:6
Zacchaeus made a personal (purse-and-all) consecration. R2731:5, 3849:3
Luke 19:9
Is salvation -- Not in the complete sense. Salvation came to him in the

sense that his heart was turned from sin and selfishness toward God and
Salvation begins to those of the spiritual house when they repent of their
sins, come into harmony with the Lord, and seek to walk according to his
ways. R2731:2, 5464:6
Two salvations--one savior. R5465:1
A son of Abraham -- In reference to the fact that the gospel was to be
preached first to the house of Israel. R1783:6
From the Lord's standpoint, all the sons of Abraham were eligible to
discipleship. The thing required was an honest confession of imperfection,
a turning from sin, a hearty acceptance of Christ and an endeavor to walk
in his steps. R5464:6
All who have the faith of Abraham may be counted in as children of Abraham
by becoming related to the divine plan as disciples of Jesus. R5464:6
Implying that the Gospel was to be preached first to the house of Israel.
R1783:6
Now all who have the faith of Abraham may be counted as children of
Abraham as disciples of Jesus. R5464:6
Luke 19:10
Son of man -- The implication is that since he had come to save the
thing lost, men were unable to save it for themselves, which experience
and many scriptures clearly prove. R603:2* The seed of Adam, through Eve;
the Son of the Man. E152, 153; R944:1
Is come -- To give a universal blessed opportunity for life. Christ died
for all--redeemed all. R2049:3
To seek -- The Lord was seeking to reach the heart of Zacchaeus when he
offered to be the guest of one popularly despised and hated. R1784:1
Let us imitate the Master's care in seeking the heart; for the seeking is
more than half the work of saving, so far as the will of the individual is
concerned. R1784:4
Jesus did seek out a certain class, the meek, who were waiting for the
promised salvation. R604:2*
To save -- Reckoning saved. R604:2*
To justify or restore the redeemed race to the perfection and glory and
dominion of earth lost in Eden. R1267:2
To understand what is to be saved or recovered, we must first learn what
was lost. R1264:3
We do not say that you are saved, but that you will be saved. R604:4*
They are not yet saved. It will be the great work of Christ's Millennial
Kingdom to save them. They will be saved by a restitution process. R1264:6
Although we might truly say men are saved when first awakened from death,
they are not "saved to the uttermost" (Heb. 7:25) until brought to full
perfection of being. R604:6*
Then he purchased them with his own blood, and though not liberated from
the prison of death, they may be truly reckoned as saved ever since their
ransom was paid, for their raising out of death was from that moment made
sure. R603:5*
Men could only be saved by a payment of their penalty which would be the
basis of their reconciliation and atonement with God. R604:1*
Christ will do this in such a manner as will do man most good. He will
make known to him its advantages and opportunities (bring him to "a
knowledge of the truth") while saving him out of Adamic death. (1 Tim.
2:4) R770:3
We see in our Lord the manifestation of the perfection of restitution
life, and we see in his sacrifice how he secured that restitution life for
all who will have it at his hand. R4155:5
All are to be saved, as all were ransomed. (1Tim. 2:5,6) For all to
be thus reached by the knowledge, ability and opportunity of salvation is
for all to be saved. Whether they make a good or bad use of God's gift
after it has reached them is another matter. R1265:2,4
As all mankind shared by heredity the sentence of death which came upon
the first man Adam, so the redemption accomplished by the second Adam
shall be co-extensive with the fall. OV291:2
The whole world will have a full opportunity to come to a knowledge of
right and wrong, a full opportunity to come to perfection of human life
and to attain all that was lost in the fall of man. R4629:5
He beheld mankind as a treasure in a field and bought the whole field that
he might develop the treasure. (Matt. 13:44) HG423:4
This salvation from what was lost is a gift from God through Christ Jesus,
our Lord. We do not merit it, and could not demand or secure it for
ourselves in any way. R1265:4
But though nothing that you have done nor could do could save you from
death, that which Christ has done procures your release from it. R604:5*
"Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved." This is the
condition on which we receive the reckoned salvation now, and it will also
be the condition on which the world will receive their actual full
salvation in the ages to come. (Acts 16:31) R604:5*
There is a special salvation for some, as well as a general salvation for
others. Jesus is here speaking of the general salvation of all men.
R603:3* Some are saved by faith in advance. R1264:6
The key to the Gospel of Luke. Matthew presents Christ the king, Mark
shows him as the worker, Luke as the philanthropist and John as the
manifestation of God. R1046:6*
That which was lost -- Adam lost life. He did not lose heaven, for he
never possessed it. He lost earthly life, an Eden home, human perfection.
R4941:6
Man, by disobedience, lost the right to eternal life. It was this
life-right that Christ came to give back to him. NS3:1
Man did not lose a heavenly, but an earthly paradise. Under the death
penalty, he did not lose a spiritual, but a human existence. A177
Man could not lose what he never had. R603:2*
What therefore will be restored in due time will be that which was
possessed by Adam in the beginning, and representatively by him for the
whole race--the glorious perfection of human nature, pronounced "very
good" by God himself. HG131:2
Everlasting life was lost, Eden was lost, human perfection was lost, the
image of the divine character was lost. R5464:6; SM48:1, 153:3
Human nature--a fleshly image of the divine--in all its beauty and
perfection of mind and body, and a right as such to live forever. R609:3,
603:3*
Let us not get the thought that our Redeemer's death was intended merely
to justify Adam to an enfeebled condition. Adam will be awakened in the
condition in which he died, but he will be granted the opportunity of
standing up again, of resurrection, of full recovery from his fall into
sin and imperfection. HG228:6
Including the power with which his Creator endowed him, when he gave him
power over every creature, to prevent or destroy such formation as
bacteria. R1685:2
The whole world was lost in father Adam because, when he came under the
penalty of sin, the impairment of his dying process extended to all his
posterity as yet unborn according to the laws of nature. R2395:3
All men are lost until found or recovered. R857:5
Our Lord's mission is for an elect class, but in conjunction with that
election, he is to give the opportunity for life everlasting to every man.
NS352:5
Even the prodigies of manhood--musical, poetic, mathematical, etc.--cannot
give us a correct concept of the perfect man, as he was before sin marred
the likeness of God in him. R1683:6
According to the Evolution theory nothing was ever lost, all that we have
as a race is gain. According to this theory, therefore, our Redeemer's
statement was a falsehood. R2395:2, 866:3; HG492:6; NS427:5, 562:5
Man and all his forfeited rights and possessions. R2454:3; E153, 457
Home, happiness, communion with God, health, life itself. R603:2*
A fleshly image of the divine, in all its beauty and perfection of mind
and body, and a right to live. R609:3, 1264:3 19:11
Luke 19:11
And spake -- Addressing those who be alive at his second advent, and
speaking as if they were the representatives of His faithful followers
throughout the Gospel Age. Changing times and circumstances vary
conditions, but the principles enunciated in the Scriptures continue in
force and meaning. SM629:2
A parable -- To point out to the disciples, and vaguely to others, that
Kingdom glories were yet a considerable distance in the future. R2735:3,
1972:6, 1951:6, 1093:2, 603:5*; HG664:1
Showing that before revealing himself in any manner to the world, he calls
first his own servants and reckons with them. R2956:6*
We are not to confound the parable of the pounds with the parable of the
talents. They teach totally different lessons. R5492:2, 2764:1, 2736:2;
Q536:4
The Parable of the Pounds and the Parable of the Talents, as companion
parables, illustrate from different standpoints the responsibilities of
the stewardship of God's people. R1972:3
This parable ignores the individual abilities of the servants and shows
them each as receiving the same thing and for the same purpose. R2736:2,
1972:6; HG665:2
Jerusalem -- Where shortly he was to be crucified. R5492:2
The kingdom of God -- Telling us clearly that the kingdoms of this world
are not the kingdoms of our Lord. R5204:4
The Millennial Reign, which should bless all the families of the earth.
R396:6, 3213:4
The Church is the Kingdom now, only in the prospective sense, by faith.
R397:4
Immediately appear -- When Jesus stated that he had now come to save the
lost (v. 10), they at once concluded that the Kingdom of God should
immediately appear. R603:5*
That they would see Jesus assume regal robes, power and authority. R2735:2
Luke 19:12
A certain nobleman -- The Lord was drawing an illustration from Herod's

course, who went to Rome to be invested with authority as king. Herod,
when he came back, rewarded those who would be faithful to him and
punished those who were unfaithful. HG146:6
The Lord referred to himself as the nobleman. R2735:5; CR491:4; HG663:2
Went -- His going away was necessary to the exaltation to the right hand
of God--an exaltation which is also greatly to our present as well as our
future benefit. R1829:3
He had gone to prepare a place for the Church, and would come again and
receive them. (John 14:2,3) B120
A far country -- Heaven. CR491:4; HG663:2
To the central seat of government and receive his commission from Jehovah,
the Father, and return. R2735:3; HG663:2
Jesus was the appointee for the Messianic Kingdom of the world; but he
would go to heaven itself and there appear in the presence of the heavenly
Father, the Overlord or Emperor of the universe. R5492:2
Jesus had talked of the Kingdom, but not until now had he explained that
he must die, and must then leave them to go into a far country to receive
the Kingdom and to return. E265; R372:1
Evidence that heaven is a place, and not merely a condition. R2075:5
To receive for himself -- One of the Herods went to Rome, seeking an
appointment to a kingdom. Some who hated him sent a message to Rome,
discrediting him and declaring their preference for another king. Jesus
seized this circumstance as an illustration in his own case. R5492:2,
2735:3; HG146:6
A kingdom -- Jesus would be invested by the Father with the ruling
authority, and later return to earth and exercise his dominion. R5492:2;
CR491:4; HG439:1, 663:2; Q91:4
This is exactly the presentation of the matter given us prophetically in
Psa. 2:8. R5492:3
Mentioned in such an unequivocal manner, that none can doubt that the
Millennial Reign is referred to. R396:6
Clearly the kingdoms of this world are not the kingdoms of our Lord.
HG569:3
Not only was the Kingdom the topic with which the Lord began his public
ministry, but it was really the main topic of all his preaching, other
topics being mentioned merely in connection with or in explanation of this
one subject. A273
And to return -- To take possession of his Kingdom and to share its
honors with those faithful to him during his absence. R1951:6
And set up his Kingdom at the second advent. A249, 283; R5386:6
To receive his faithful people as "joint-heirs." (Rom. 8:17) R1908:6
This parable was intended to inform them that a considerable period of
time would elapse before the Kingdom would be established. R5492:2
Luke 19:13
His ten servants -- The Revised Version points out that these were only
a part of all the nobleman's servants. They would seem to represent the
consecrated class who have professed full devotion to the Lord. R2736:1
Chosen as a general number to represent all of the consecrated, but only
three of these are mentioned as illustrations of faithfulness and
unfaithfulness. R2736:4
The Lord avoids even intimating how many of the whole will prove faithful
and how many will fail; and, of these, how many accounted worthy of the
Second Death and how many will come, through faithfulness in tribulation,
to be honored servants in the Kingdom. (Rev. 7:9-15) R2736:4
Nothing is committed to the masses of the people, and no judgment or
reward is made in their case at the return of the Master as King. R5492:3
Delivered them -- Individually, not collectively, as in a commune.
R1862:5; D480
As stewards of God we have nothing of our own, nothing with which we may
do as we please: for, says the Apostle, "What hast thou that thou didst
not receive?" (1 Cor. 4:7) Nothing. R1972:3
Unto them -- Only to his servants did he give the pounds--only his
servants had the responsibility of those pounds, and only those servants
will be reckoned with or held responsible. R5492:3
Ten pounds -- This parable deals with something that is common to all of
the class to whom reference is made. R5492:2
The pound is the same to all. It represents justification. R5492:5;
HG665:4; Q536:4
Not the holy Spirit, for all have not the same measure or capacity; not
faith, for all cannot exercise it in the same degree. HG665:3
"A measure of the spirit is given to every man [in the true, consecrated
Church] to profit withal." (1 Cor. 12:7) It is the same gift to all, the
same spirit working amongst all, and the duty of each one is to use this
gift of the Lord for its increase. R2736:1
Fitly represents those blessings of divine grace which are common to all
God's people--the Word of God, helps to its understanding, the influences
of the holy spirit, faith, prayer and communion with God and fellowship
with Christ and his people. R1972:6
Worth approximately sixteen dollars each. R5492:2
Special opportunities as a justified person that he would not otherwise
have had. R3948:3; CR491:5; Q536:4
The one thing which the Redeemer does for all who become his followers is
to justify them. R5492:5, 5387:1,4; Q536:4
"A measure of the Spirit to every man, to profit withal." (1 Cor. 12:7)
R2736:1
Occupy -- In old English, signifying "do business with," "use," "traffic
with." R1973:1
Take that which my blood has justified and made acceptable, and which you
have in sacrifice presented to me and use in my service until I come and
reckon with you. HG665:5
To show their loyalty as his servants by the degree of their activity in
his interest. R664:2
It is a steward's place to seek and find places where he can dispose of
the talents and moneys consecrated to the Lord to the best advantage, as
his sanctified judgment, under the guidance of the Lord's Word, may
dictate. R855:4
Here is the work of the gospel. The reigning and the gospel are distinct.
HG13:4
The duty of the hour is not the uplifting of heathendom--for which work
God has specially appointed a coming age and is specially preparing
teachers, who will be granted plenary powers for that work. R2490:2
"Moreover, it is required in stewards that a man be found faithful." (1
Cor. 4:2) The entire body of Christ is called, not to indolent,
self-complacent ease, but to diligent and enterprising activity; not in
the spirit of a hireling, but with the intelligent, loving interest of
sons and heirs of God. R2157:5*, 1972:3
Till I come -- Not pointing to a special moment, hour or day, but to the
period of his presence (Greek: parousia), during which his "harvest" work
will gather and glorify his saints and establish his promised Kingdom.
R3652:6
Luke 19:14
Citizens hated him -- Showing that, during the absence of the Nobleman,
the opponents of his rule are in the majority and hold sway. R1093:3
We will not have -- Preferring to be let alone as they are. R1093:3
More or less in love and in league with the darkness of sin. Everyone who
opposes righteousness, or who loves and serves unrighteousness, is thereby
declaring his opposition to the reign of righteousness. R2735:5
The world will need strong restraints, coercions and stripes during the
Millennium to enforce obedience. R4310:5
This man to reign -- The Jews were willing to concede that our Master's
teachings were grand in many particulars, but they did not wish to be put
under such restraints--they would not have him for their Master, their
king, their lawgiver. NS191:5
They esteem him not as a ruler. They prefer to keep the reins of their own
hearts and in their own hands. They prefer their plan to his, even as
respects the establishment of his Kingdom and the method by which the
world shall be blessed. NS191:6
Herein the world differs from the true followers of Jesus, who so desire
that Christ shall be their King. NS191:5
Luke 19:15
When he was returned -- We are living in the very time represented--the

time when our Lord, invested with the authority of the Father, is about to
take to himself his great power and reign. R2736:3
Invested with the majesty, authority and power of a Kingdom. SM52:1
Having received -- This Kingdom was not "set up" at the first advent of
Christ. Not until his second advent, will Christ take the Kingdom, the
power and glory, and reign Lord of all. A249, 283
Christ is in the Kingdom first, or is inaugurated in the kingly office,
before others can share that honor as his cabinet. R82:1*, 60:4*
A rebuke to those who claim that the Kingdom of God was set up at
Pentecost or who claim that in some manner the second advent took place
1800 years ago, at the time of Israel's overthrow, about AD 70. R2735:6
The kingdom -- Preparatory to that reign, he is reckoning with his
servants now living, with a view to their appointment to a place in the
Kingdom he is about to inaugurate. R2736:3
Then he commanded -- The first work of the King on coming into his
dominion is not to deal with the public in general, or even with his
enemies; but he will first call for his own servants and reckon with them.
HG664:5; F419, 663; Q91:4
This makes evident the fact that at first the Kingdom of Christ will not
be generally recognized by mankind. HG664:6
The judgment of Babylon, Christendom, social and ecclesiastical, is
another sign that the Judge has come, and is reckoning first of all with
those to whom as stewards he committed his goods. D599
These servants -- At his return, all these servants will be reckoned
with, and the degree of their zeal and efficiency as servants will be
manifested by the results; and the rewards given them will be
proportionate. R5492:3
To be called -- It is evident that the inspection is a work done in
reference to the living, while they are yet mortal, for two reasons:
first, the reward follows the inspection, and second, the unfaithful was
cast out. R58:5*
As a test of their fidelity of stewardship, to determine what place, if
any, should be granted them in his Kingdom. R1973:1, 817:5, 58:5*; Q615:T
"We [the Church] must all appear before the tribunal of Christ." (2 Cor.
5:10) F418
That he might know -- A work of examination after he had returned, and
before the reward. R155:1*, 82:1*
As to the faithfulness or slothfulness of their stewardship. R817:5
Our business we manage as trustees for the Lord--not to be turned over at
death in prosperous condition to children or friends, possibly to their
injury, but to be used by the trustee as wisely as he knows how before
death; for then his trusteeship ends, and he must render his account.
R3148:6
Fortunately for us, the reckoning is not one of an instant, but time is
granted to us to make up our account. R2736:4
Luke 19:16
Then came the first -- Reckoning with them as individuals, and not by
groups or classes. R1973:1
Gained ten pounds -- Proportionately increased talents, blessings,
opportunities and authority over the one who gained five pounds. F725
The right use of the "pound" is to diligently profit by all the means of
grace for the spiritual upbuilding of ourselves and others. R1973:1
So such noble characters as St. Peter, St. Paul, St. John and others,
sacrificed themselves over and over again in the divine service. R5492:6;
HG665:6
Luke 19:17
Said unto him -- In the first resurrection. NS137:1

Thou good servant -- How few of those who recognize their trusteeship
are faithful to it, and will be able to render their report with joy.
R3148:6
Thou hast been faithful -- He did not say. "Thou hast done great
things," but, "Thou hast been faithful over a few things." He knew that
they could not do very much, but they had shown their loyalty, their
faithfulness, and that is what the Lord desires to see. CR491:5
We may be ever so faithful and have so many difficulties in the way that
what we do might seem slight, or we might be able to do much more. Let
each do in the sight of the Lord what we believe would be pleasing and
acceptable to him. CR345:1
The Lord's method is to advance only him whose zeal and faithfulness and
patient perseverance in well-doing has shown itself in little things. F296
Have thou authority -- The Master is now teaching us to rule ourselves
that we may know how to rule others; opening our eyes to the weakness of
our own flesh, that we may have patience with those over whom we will be
given authority. R405:4*, 12:6*
This giving of the dominion to his faithful servants signified their
sharing with him in the Kingdom at the time of its establishment at his
second coming. HG439:2
The high reward of being joint-heirs with Christ. NS627:2; Q91:4
"He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much."
(Luke 16:10) F296; CR344:6
Over ten cities -- Ruler over what? Some say everything is to be
destroyed. Not so. The world will be to rule over, to be brought into
harmony with God. HG147:1
These ruling judges would not take personal cognizance of each offender,
because there might be many trying to do wrong at the same time. Therefore
it will be necessary to have somebody to look out for each of these. Q437:3
These, who have gladly spent themselves zealously in the service of the
Lord, are to have the highest rewards. R5492:6
The degrees of exaltation in the Kingdom differ according to the measure
of their fruitage here. R1973:4; Q500:4; SM512:1
Greater sacrifices in the present work out "a far more exceeding and
eternal weight of glory." (2Cor. 4:17) R2736:2
Those who are rich in talents, opportunities and privileges, if faithful,
achieve a larger victory and grander reward than those who sacrifice less.
R2736:2
"The saints shall judge the world." (1Cor. 6:2) CR345:4; Q437:2
Luke 19:18
Gained five pounds -- The various means of grace to the heart differ in
different individuals, and the consequent fruitfulness also differs.
R1973:2
Luke 19:19
Said likewise -- Perhaps the differences of opportunities are to be

understood as implied, because the Lord expressed as hearty approval of
the one who gained four pounds as he did of the one who gained nine.
R2736:2
Over five cities -- The rewards will not all be alike as respects glory
and honor, though all will be glorious and honorable--"as star differeth
from star in glory." (1 Cor. 15:41) F419, 725; SM512:1; NS608:5
Even the same means of grace do not profit all to exactly the same extent.
Some, for instance, are by nature more studious and thoughtful, or more
generous, or grateful. R1973:2 Another illustration of the same thing is
also found in the parable of the sower (Matt. 13:8), where the seed in
good ground produces fruit in varying quantities--some thirty, some sixty,
and some an hundred fold. R1973:2
A less influential place in the Messianic Kingdom. R5492:6, 1973:4
He had been less faithful and the reward was less. R5492:6
Luke 19:20
Another came -- He represented quite a large class of the Lord's

servants who are seeking merely to live in a justified condition and are
not striving to use the time, influence and opportunity in the service of
the Truth. HG666:1
Perhaps he represents a class whose love for the Lord has been greatly
marred by reason of the false teaching and "doctrines of devils" which so
egregiously misrepresent him. HG666:1
Although he returned it, he had failed to use it. R5386:6
If one fails to use his opportunities and privileges, they will be given
to another. Q537:1
Kept laid up -- By neglecting to ponder the precepts and principles of
God's Word, to follow the leadings of the holy Spirit, the privilege of
prayer and communion with God and cultivating the fellowship and communion
of saints. It cannot yield its legitimate increase while thus unused.
R1973:1
Represents a fully consecrated class, that say, I endeavored to maintain
my justification, but I did not sacrifice myself. R2736:2, 5492:6
Christian character cannot grow and develop in the neglect of the very
means which God has provided for its perfecting. R1973:1,5; CR254:5
Luke 19:21
I feared thee -- The servant had more fear than love, and the fear
hindered his usefulness. HG666:1
Fear is not a good motive to obedience. Loving obedience is an expression
involving both heart and life. As fear was the cause of unfaithfulness, so
love is the cause of faithfulness. R21:5*
In fact he did not have enough zeal to use it. HG666:1
An austere man -- He believed the Lord was unjust because he was unjust
himself. R21:5*
"Who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage."
(Heb. 2:15) R5493:3
Luke 19:22
Of thine own mouth -- Since we are in the day of accounting, we

understand each one is now giving account. The merciful may expect mercy,
the unmerciful may not expect mercy. R4473:2
Because you have prayed, "Thy Kingdom come." (Luke 11:2) C21, 22
Will I judge thee -- What a fearful retribution apparently awaits the
professed ministers of God and of Christ, who, instead of using their
great opportunities for emancipating the people from the slavery of
ignorance, superstition and error, are using them to promote mental
bondage. OV389:1
Each one is now giving an account to the Lord. R4473:2
"It is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful." (1 Cor. 4:2)
R2157:4*
Wicked servant -- Still a servant, but a wicked servant. R5493:1
Wicked, not because he had committed murder or robbery; but because,
having assumed an obligation by which he was entrusted with certain of the
Master's goods not given to others, he failed of his covenant. R2736:3
This class is represented in the foolish virgins, who failed to enter in
to the wedding; and so these will fail to become members of the Bride, the
Lamb's wife. R5493:1
Representing a class, not merely justified, but sanctified--consecrated
fully to the Lord, and made recipients of the holy Spirit, even as the
other members of the body. R2736:2
Represents a considerable class who have entered into a covenant with the
Lord, but have neglected self-sacrifice. R5493:1
Punished because he was unfaithful: he failed in the obligation he had
assumed, becoming unfit for any share in the Kingdom. R5386:6, 2736:2, 3
Had he not professed to be a servant, he would have received no pound and
had no responsibility. R5493:1
Luke 19:23
Mine own with usury -- Interest on a business loan is quite proper. F568
Luke 19:24
Take from him -- Not lost, in the worst sense of that word. They will
indeed lose the great prize, but because they still remain servants and
have a love for righteousness, they will be saved so as by fire; that is,
through tribulations. R5493:2
His loss was a heavy one. He failed to enter into the privileges and
blessings of the faithful servants. That failure would be punishment
enough for him. HG666:2
Give it to him -- If one fails to use his opportunities and privileges,
they will be given to another. Q537:1
Luke 19:26
Which hath -- Hath used. R2496:6

Shall be given -- Following this just principle, the Logos had always
proved faithful in all things. "It pleased the Father that in him should
all fullness dwell." (Col. 1:18-19) Faithfulness shall have its reward
even though this shall mean trials. F64
That hath not -- Hath not used. R2496:6
Even that he hath -- This parable illustrates the differing abilities of
God's people, and their duty to make good use of them. R2764:1, 1973:1,2
Luke 19:27
But those -- Not until first he shall have finished dealing with his own
servants at his second coming will the glorious Messiah begin to deal with
the world, and especially with his enemies. R5493:3
Mine enemies -- Representing not only the Jews who cried, "Away with
him!" but including also all who, having come to a knowledge of Christ and
his coming Kingdom, are so out of accord with righteousness that they do
not desire the promised Millennial Kingdom. R1973:5
Which would not -- The parable implies four classes: (1) The king's
servants; (2) those specially granted the pounds for use in his service;
(3) the citizens; (4) the class of the latter opposed to the king and his
laws. R2736:5
When mankind is brought back in the Millennial age they will be given the
opportunity to decide whether they are enemies of him or not. HG148:3
After the Kingdom has been established some of the citizens, who had
misunderstood the King's character, will have the eyes of their
understanding opened. Many of them, instead of longer being enemies, will
become staunch friends and supporters. R2736:5
Slay them -- Wrath will come upon these, a great "time of trouble, such
as was not since there was a nation." (Dan. 12:1) R1973:6
Chastening and correcting all who have sympathy with wrong principles, and
who are his enemies, and ultimately to destroy them if they continue in
their wrong attitude. HG666:4
Those who are in opposition to the Kingdom of God, and its scepter of
righteousness, impartiality and justice, are being gathered to the great
slaughter. R817:5; B300
Not literal carnage, but a great triumph of the Word of the Lord over all
during the reign of the Millennial Kingdom. SM53:T
He will be doing the greatest good for his enemies in bringing upon them
punishments for their wrong course--shame, publicity, contempt. These
things will be necessary to arouse them to an appreciation of their true
condition and show them their privileges. R5493:5
The Lord smites to heal, and when his Word cuts to the heart the effect is
to destroy the enemy. Unless the enemies of the Lord be thus brought into
subjection to him, nothing will remain for them but the final extinction.
R5493:6
"Thine arrows shall be sharp in the hearts of the King's enemies; whereby
the people shall fall under thee." (Psa. 45:3-5) SM53:T
There surely will be some lost as well as some saved. Such destruction is
reasonable, just and merciful. R3083:2,6
The slaying of the enemies represents clearly and distinctly the
punishment which the Lord prescribes for the enemies of righteousness,
viz., the Second Death. R2736:5
Those who will not have this King to reign over them shall eventually die
the Second Death, from which there is no recovery. HG148:3
"His enemies shall lick the dust." (Psa. 72:9) B300
Corresponding with the Revelation picture of the sword of Messiah's mouth
which will smite the nations (Rev. 19:15), and the sharp arrows of Messiah
in the hearts of his enemies (Psa. 45:5). SM52:1, 53:T; R5493:5,6
The Lord's righteous indignation against evil-doers; but leaving hope of
forgiveness for those who will repent and become loyal subjects of the
King. R1973:6
The sword of the Lord, the Word of Truth, shall discover the secret
springs of their hearts and either slay their enmity ("cut them to the
heart" --Acts 7:54) and make them friends, or utterly destroy them in the
second death. R5493:5, 2736:6; SM440:1; CR62:4
Luke 19:28
Ascending up -- After the feast made by Lazarus, Martha and Mary, at

which were present some of the Pharisees from Jerusalem. R5230:3
Luke 19:29
Bethphage -- Though a short distance from Jerusalem, nevertheless the

city was hid from view by the Mount of Olives. R2746:1
Luke 19:30
Go ye -- On previous occasions, when they sought to make Jesus a king,

he withdrew himself. But now he knew his hour was come and hence, instead
of hindering, he helped on with the enthusiasm by sending for the ass,
etc. NS779:5
Luke 19:35
Cast their garments -- As marks of honor of the King. R2296:2
Luke 19:36
As he went -- The triumphal entry into Jerusalem, together with its

chronological order, prefigured the coming of Christ as king, in the end
of this Gospel age, the antitype of the Jewish age, the two being exact
parallels in both time and circumstances. R1795:2
In the way -- Forming, as it were, a carpet in the road leading to
Jerusalem. NS779:5
Luke 19:37
The whole multitude -- Which had come from Jerusalem to see Jesus
because of the awakening of Lazarus. NS779:4
Some thought that now was the moment of Jesus' glorification, and this,
they felt sure, meant also their own glorification. R5230:3
Thus selecting its Paschal Lamb on the 10th of Nisan. F461
The Lamb of God offered himself to Israel as a nation, as their Passover
Lamb. R2296:6
Began to rejoice -- Their unstable and fickle minds, swayed by their
false teachers and unwilling to act upon their convictions in the face of
opposition, would only a few days later cry, Crucify him! crucify him!
R1795:2
Ours is Palm Sunday in the highest sense of all. How are we receiving the
great blessings which betoken the parousia of the Master? NS781:5
Luke 19:38
Blessed be the King -- It is in order for all of God's people who now
get awake from the slumber of worldliness to join hearts and voices in a
great shout--the shout that the Kingdom is at hand! The shout of Hosanna
to the Son of David! NS781:4
Our Lord's previous ministry to Israel had not been as their King, but as
John had introduced him, as their Bridegroom and their Teacher. R2296:3
As the King, he is now taking possession of his Kingdom--first, as with
the Jews, offering himself to his professed people--but now, as then,
finding only a remnant in the nominal mass truly anxious for his Kingdom.
R2297:2
"He is King of kings and Lord of lords." (Rev. 19:16) D17; B238
That the people would receive him as King looked very favorable. R5230:3
The heads of Israel will acknowledge him as King of kings and Lord of
lords at his second advent. R2746:2
"Ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord" (Matt.
23:39), the very shout the Pharisees objected to. R2296:6
This exercise of kingly power and authority in the Spring of 33 AD marked
a parallel point of time in this harvest for the raising of the sleeping
saints in 1878 AD. C233, 234
"Even to day do I declare that I will render double unto thee." (Zech.
9:12) B225
Luke 19:39
Rebuke thy disciples -- God might have avoided sending our Lord in this
formal way, knowing in advance that they would reject him, but had he done
so, his course would not have been so clear. God's judgment would have
been just, but the justice would not have been apparent to his creatures.
R2296:3
Although they could not object to anything which our Lord said or did.
R2746:4
As the chief priests, the clergy, do today against those whose blindness
and lameness the Lord has healed. R1795:5
Luke 19:40
Cry out -- In order that the prophecy of Zech. 9:9 might be fulfilled.
B225; R5362:4, 5090:6, 2296:3, 1795:5; NS630:1
How strengthening it is to faith to realize that even the jots and tittles
of prophecy must all be fulfilled. NS630:1
Today, while the King of glory has actually come, and while the great
majority of his professed living witnesses are dumb, the very stones of
the Great Pyramid are crying out in no uncertain tones. C376
Luke 19:41
And when -- At the time of his triumphal entry. B226

He beheld the city -- Jerusalem, typifying Christendom in the harvest of
the Gospel age. R1847:1
Wept over it -- The deep solicitude of a noble heart which grieved for a
nation that failed so sadly to realize both its privileges and its
degradation, and which therefore must soon receive the fearful visitation
of divine wrath. R1846:5
As Paul's tears (Acts 20:37; 2 Cor. 2:4; Phil. 3:18,19), the grief of an
unselfish heart yearning over the salvation of others, and dreading lest
they should be lost, or lamenting because the Christian profession of the
Lord's people was marred and their Christian life hindered by their unholy
walk. May he make us like himself in this--strong to bear our own griefs
and tender to feel the sorrows and sins of others. R1886:5*
Reminiscent of King David sobbing, "O, my son Absalom, my son, my son
Absalom! would God I had died for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son!" (2
Sam. 18:33) R4278:2
Luke 19:42
If thou hadst known -- From this language it is evident that our Lord
did not consider the multitudes who were with him as, in any sense of the
word, representing the city and nation. R2746:2
These words of lamentation apply with equal force to Christendom--nominal
Even thou -- God had greatly favored Israel, but chiefly in that to them
were committed the oracles of God--the law and the testimony of God. (Rom.
3:2) R1846:2
The Messiah had been born a Jew, of the lineage of David; his advent was
announced by angel messengers; his anointing received divine testimony
from heaven, his claims and teachings had received the most marked seal of
divine approval, and his personal character and demeanor commanded the
most profound respect. R1846:2
In this thy day -- The Lord's earthly ministry was fast nearing its
close, as was also the time of Israel's special favor. R1846:1
The things -- Nothing short of the fullest acceptance of Christ and his
teachings, and obedience to them. R1847:2
The favor of God was, there and then, taken from fleshly Israel. R2746:5
Unto thy peace -- The peace of God which passeth all the understanding
of those who do not possess it, keeps our hearts. (Phil. 4:7) R1847:2
But now -- Henceforth. B226
Hid from thine eyes -- This was their blindness. R599:5
Now, that their "double" is complete, we can see that their blindness is
beginning to be turned away. B226
Luke 19:43
The days shall come -- All the elements of strife and discord which
shall eventuate in the predicted and unparalleled trouble are in active
operation. R1847:4
Thine enemies shall cast -- As soon as God's call and the various
siftings of divine providence shall have found the worthy ones, then the
plagues shall come upon the residue, the nominal system. R2297:4
Compass thee round -- Cutting off their supplies of food and driving
them to all the horrors of famine, when parents actually killed and ate
their own children. R1846:6
Luke 19:44
Thou knewest not -- Israel's hope of the glory and honor of their coming
king, inspired as it was by the types and prophecies of his greatness and
power, caused them to overlook another set of types and prophecies which
pointed to a work of suffering and death. A79
Even his immediate followers were sorely perplexed when Jesus died; and
sadly they said, "We trusted it had been he which should have redeemed
Israel." (Luke 24:21) A79
So far from marshalling that nation in rank and file before him, they were
not even aware of the test then made. The second great separation has
actually been going on in our midst, and the world and worldly church know
nothing of it. R267:6
Not only failed to recognize the time of their visitation, but they also
conspired against the Lord to slay him. R1846:3
Their great national sin was the rejection and crucifixion of the anointed
Son of God. On the part of the minority, the rulers, the sin was active;
on the part of the majority the sin was passive, they weakly failed to
express their right of private judgment. R1846:5
They did not know that the time had come for the establishment of the
Kingdom; hence they were not alert to their privileges and failed to be in
the proper condition of heart to receive the blessings. NS781:2
Not only ignorant of the matter collectively, but they were not in the
heart condition to understand or appreciate. NS779:6
His words imply that their ignorance was a mark of carelessness and
unworthiness, and of divine disfavor. R2981:4
They were left in ignorance because their hearts were not right. They were
not worthy of the truth. R2297:5
Owing to their pride, love of self, having an imposing ceremonial service
and love of the applause of men. R591:2*
Consequently, as a nation, they were blinded and cast off from divine
favor for a "double," for a period of disfavor equal in length to their
previous period of favor, 1845 years. R1713:2
Only a remnant in the close or harvest of each dispensation is prepared to
receive and appreciate the truths then due, and therefore to enter into
the special privileges and blessings of the dawning dispensation. B26
Although, according to the promises, they were looking for and expecting
the Messiah about this time. R1846:2
Although there has always been a right and a wrong side to every question,
yet the harvest in the end of the Jewish age brought a new issue and a
fresh division along new lines. R3883:2
Their failure to recognize the time of their visitation meant to them a
great loss of privilege--that their house must be left desolate, abandoned
of the Lord during this Gospel age. R2746:2
Nominal spiritual Israel, at the parallel point of time, the harvest of
this age, similarly fails to recognize the time of her visitation.
R1847:2; NS781:1
The nominal Christian church, instituted by Jesus, is in a similar
condition of unconsciousness regarding the time of her visitation, and for
similar reasons. R591:2*
The visitation (presence) of the Lord is as a stone of stumbling and rock
of offence to both the houses of Israel (Isa. 8:14; Heb. 3:5,6) The
fleshly house failed to recognize his presence in the flesh; the spiritual
house refuses to acknowledge his presence in a spiritual body. R505:5*
If Christendom today would awake and realize the true meaning of present
conditions, it would mean a great change to the comparatively few who have
made full consecration to the Lord--but others would not be able to
receive the lesson: for it is written, "None of the wicked shall
understand." SM700:1
They recognized not the opportunities and privileges that were theirs.
NS42:5
The tests of this "harvest" must be like those of the Jewish or typical
"harvest." One of them is the cross, another is the presence of Christ,
another is humility, another is love. R3437:4; B237
As Israel recognized not Jesus as the Messiah and that his work was a
harvest work, so likewise Christian people in general today are unaware
that we are living in the second presence of the Messiah and that a
similar harvesting work is now in progress. R3883:2
They are blinded by the false theory that the Lord's commission is that
the church should convert the world into a kingdom of God. R2981:5
The blindest are the leaders of the blind, like their Jewish types. B237
"The light shined in the darkness, and the darkness comprehended it not."
(John 1:5) Consequently the glory of the Lord was not then seen upon
Israel. R2036:1
"Ye can discern the face of the sky; but cannot ye discern the signs of
the times." (Matt. 16:3) R2981:4
The worldly are really in a better condition to discern the signs of the
times than many prejudiced nominal Christians. R2981:5
Indifference to time prophecies is clear evidence of lukewarmness; the
majority of God's professed children were ignorant of Christ's presence at
both advents. B26, 237
They did not realize they were in the harvest, nor that they were being
specially favored of God. CR175:2
They did not appreciate the Greater than Solomon, nor inquire for the
terms of membership in the Kingdom. R5722:5
They did not discern the signs of the times; their ignorance was a mark of
carelessness, unworthiness and divine disfavor. R2981:4
Only a few were able to understand the character of the times in which
they were living, and the changes in progress. R5454:6
Those who knew not were burned as "chaff" in the great trouble which
overthrew their nation. R5443:2
This did not refer to the multitudes who were with him. R2746:2
Our Lord's language indicates that a time will come when Israel shall
gladly acknowledge him as King. R2746:2
The time -- There time of visitation was, in a sense, the whole forty
years to the destruction of the nation, but there had been the time of
trial first, for three and a half years. R176:6
Of their visitation -- If, during the three and a half years of their
trial, they had been in a condition to receive Jesus, the visitation
following would have been of blessing, but unready and rejecting him, it
became a visitation of wrath. R176:6
As a nation they were blinded and failed to enter into the rest of faith
then offered them. R5388:5, 2036:1, 1713:2
Meant a great loss of privilege, being abandoned during this Gospel age,
and the elect gathered from the Gentiles instead. R2746:2
Had they accepted their privileges, the Church would have been completed
in Jesus' day. R5722:5
This time was, in a sense, of 40 years' duration to the destruction of the
nation. Had they accepted Jesus in the first three and one-half years, the
visitation would have been of blessing instead of wrath. R176:6; SM185:2
So here, during the first three and one-half years of harvest, from 1874
to 1878, the opportunity was given to the Gospel church to receive the
presence of Christ, but they stumbled similarly and are given over to a
visitation of wrath. R177:1
Luke 19:45
Into the temple -- Not to Herod's palace, to demand possession of it;

nor to Pilate's palace, to demand recognition of him; but, as the
representative of Jehovah, he went appropriately to the Father's house or
palace, to the Temple. R2746:3
Typifying the cleansing of the consecrated Temple class since 1878, in
which every selfish, carnal thought, and all worldliness, must be cast
out, that the Temple may be clean, God's dwelling place. B239
Cast out them -- Whether because of the dignity of our Lord's person and
presence, or whether because of the large multitude, no attempt was made
to resist him. R2296:5
As a typical act, indicates that in the end of this age judgment begins
with the professed house of God. (1 Pet. 4:17) R1795:5
The consecrated or temple class in the nominal church stands related to
the nominal church, as a whole, as the literal temple stood related to the
holy city Jerusalem, as a whole. B239
The temple class, the little flock, must be purged, cleansed, before the
Temple, composed of living stones, shall be ready to be filled with the
glory of God, and to become the place of prayer for all nations. R2297:4
Every selfish, carnal thought must be cast out, that the temple may be
clean, the dwelling place of God's holy Spirit. B239 Backed by the
authority which belonged to any Jew in any station of life. R3851:4
Them that sold -- The antitypical cleansing now in progress mainly
affects those who make merchandise of holy things. R3851:6, 2746:6
Luke 19:46
A den of thieves -- Typifying Evolutionists and other professedly

Christian ministers who rob God and receive money of the people under
false pretenses. R3852:1
Luke 19:47
The Truth is being proclaimed so often to the offense of the scribes and
Pharisees of today. R2746:6, 2947:3, 1035:5, 325:1
Parallel to present-day sectarians assassinating the character of one
opposing their theories and traditions. R2434:1
Luke 19:48
Were very attentive -- But the more his fame spread abroad and the
people were influenced by his teaching, the more the envy and opposition
of the scribes and Pharisees increased and intensified into a settled
murderous hatred. R1982:3
Luke 20
Luke 20:9
Then -- On the last day of his public ministry. R1982:2

Parable -- Which the scribes and Pharisees perceived to be against them,
and which the more angered them. R1982:3, 1795:3
So aptly did it represent their state of heart that its only effect was to
arouse them to renewed energy to fulfill the final prediction of the
parable (verse 15). R1795:6
The foundation of this parable is the very similar language of the
prophecy of Isa. 5:1-7. R1795:3
A certain man -- Representing God. R1982:3
A vineyard -- Representing the Jewish nation as described under the same
figure in Isa. 5:1-7. R1982:3, 1795:3
See also Psa. 80:14, 15; Jer. 2:21. R1795:3
To husbandmen -- The divinely constituted religious leaders of the
nation. R1982:3
Whose duty it was to instruct and lead in the right ways of the Lord,
which they were miserably failing to do. R1795:6
Went into a far country -- Left the vineyard thus prepared and equipped
with every advantage to insure an abundant harvest, which he had a right
to expect at the appointed harvest time, in which those addressed were
then living. R1795:6
A long time -- These husbandmen had this stewardship from the time of
the exodus down to the time of the coming of Messiah, a period of nearly
nineteen centuries. R1982:3
Luke 20:10
At the season -- At such times as it was proper to expect some fruit.

R1796:1
At various seasons during the age, God specially looked for fruits of
A servant -- His faithful prophets, who were lightly esteemed and illy
treated. R1982:5
A prophet or teacher. R1796:1
That they should -- The husbandmen, through their influence; for the
rulers in Israel, because of their influence and power, were held
specially responsible for the course of the nation, although this did not
release the individuals from their responsibilities. R1796:1
The fruit -- Gratitude, love, obedience, meekness and readiness of mind
and heart in the end of the age to follow the further leading into the new
paths of the greener pastures of the Gospel dispensation. R1795:6
Beat him -- See Jer. 37:13-21; 1 Kings 18:13; 22:24-27; 2 Kings 6:31; 2
Chron. 24:20,21; 36:16; Acts 7:52; Heb. 11:35-38. R1796:1
Luke 20:13
My beloved son -- The Lord Jesus, who thus spake to them. R1796:1
They will reverence him -- Though God knew it would be otherwise, it is
so expressed to show the reasonableness of such expectation. R1796:1
Luke 20:14
The husbandmen -- The chief priests and rulers. R1796:1

Among themselves -- They plotted privately and deceitfully. R1796:1
This is the heir -- This man claims to be the king, the Messiah of the
Jews. R1796:1
May be ours -- Their desire to retain their prestige and power was the
very object of the leaders in Israel in persecuting and finally crucifying
the Lord. R1796:2
Luke 20:15
And killed him -- Crucified the Lord. R1796:2, 4678:5, 1982:6

Jesus foretold his own violent death. R5505:3
Similarly today, some high in nominal spiritual Israel "murder" the Lord's
people, beheading them by ostracism and "arrows, even bitter words." (Psa.
64:3) R4678:6
Luke 20:16
Destroy -- Cast those wicked husbandmen out of their offices. R1796:4

Jesus knew that the sin of the Jews would bring a penalty. R5577:5
These husbandmen -- As such. They lost their prestige, power, honor and
office; and many of them doubtless perished literally in the destruction
of Jerusalem. R1982:6
God's judgments came upon the Jewish nation, and it was entirely
overthrown in 70 AD. R5505:4
Unto others -- Superseded by the more worthy apostles and teachers of
the gospel of Christ. R1982:3
Give his favor to others than the Jewish nations; viz., the Gentiles.
R1796:4
Luke 20:17
And said -- Not wishing to leave them with the idea that their triumph
would be lasting. R1796:4
The stone -- The stone (Dan. 2:45) is symbolic of a supernatural power,
"not made with hands," heavenly, divine; symbolic of Messiah and his
Kingdom. R3359:4*
The builders rejected -- But this would not hinder its exaltation in
God's due time. R1982:6
"And he shall be for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to
both the houses of Israel." (Isa. 8:14) R1983:1
Is become -- The prophecy of his own final triumph, even though they
should kill him. R1982:6
The head of the corner -- The building of God being referred to as a
pyramid, of which the topstone is the chief corner stone. (Psa. 118:22;
Zech. 4:7) R1982:6
Luke 20:18
Shall be broken -- In stumbling over Christ at his first advent, the

Jewish nation was indeed broken to pieces. R1982:6
The result of the stumbling of the nominal gospel church over this stone
will be the same as in the case of the Jewish church: they will be broken,
the whole institution will be disintegrated. R1983:4
"He shall be for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offense to both
the houses of Israel." (Isa. 8:14) R5817:1, 1983:1
It will grind him -- When the Kingdom is established in glory and power,
upon whomsoever this stone falls it will grind him to powder: it will
utterly destroy him. R1983:4
Luke 20:19
Sought to lay hands -- Showing the wickedness of their hearts in strong

contrast with that beauty of holiness which never more than on this
occasion appeared more lovely. R1796:4
They perceived -- That the great Teacher had read their hearts and was
aware of their dark designs. R1982:6
Luke 20:20
Hold of his words -- By inducing him to openly endorse the secret

teachings of the Pharisees that the Jews, as the people of God, ought not
to pay taxes to other rulers. R3852:6, 3853:1
Luke 20:22
Luke 20:23
Why tempt ye me? -- "Why do you try to entrap me?"--It was utter folly
for imperfect men to seek to entrap the perfect One. R3853:2, 104:2
Luke 20:25
Which be Caesar's -- "Tribute to who tribute is due." (Rom. 13:7) A266

The affairs of the world may be safely left with the world, under the
Lord's supervision. R3853:3
When Caesar's laws conflict with the divine requirements, Christians are
left no alternatives. R5929:2
Which be God's -- Which we presented to him in consecration. R855:5
A lesson to the Lord's people to keep religious affairs separate and
distinct from worldly politics. R2756:3
Luke 20:26
Hold of his words -- "Grace is poured into thy lips." (Psa. 45:2) "All
bare him witness and wondered at the gracious words that proceeded out of
his mouth." (Luke 4:22 "The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit
and they are life." (John 6:63) "Never man spake like this man." (John
7:46) R1937:2
They marvelled -- So wise, just and true were the Lord's words. R1937:3
Luke 20:27
The Sadducees -- Utterly lacking in any faith respecting a future

life--believing that death ended all existence, forever. R3854:1, 915:3
Any resurrection -- Greek, anastasis, is without the Greek article, and
hence shows no emphasis--indicates no special peculiarity. R1512:1
They asked him -- Trying to entrap him with one of their stock
questions. Q588:2
Luke 20:33
In the resurrection -- The Scriptures disclose that the world's

resurrection (Greek, anastasis, raising up) will be a gradual work
covering a period of a thousand years, and not a momentary work as the
Sadducees and others supposed. R915:3
Showing that the word anastasis does not always mean raised to spiritual
life. R92:6
The resurrection (lifting to perfection) of the Gospel Church will be an
instantaneous or momentary work, but the world's resurrection will keep
pace with their obedience under their trial. R915:3
They did not ask, To which will she be wife in heaven or purgatory or
eternal torture, for neither Jesus nor the Jews held any such teaching.
Q588:2
Whose wife -- They were trying to prove that if a resurrection should
take place, it would produce an endless tangle by reason of mixed and
confused social arrangements. R915:3
Luke 20:34
Jesus answering -- Our Lord avoided giving them a direct reply, perhaps
because it would have required a long discourse for which they were
unready, perhaps because the time for such information was not yet due.
R1509:6
Marry -- Marriage means merely the union of male and female, recognizing
each other as one. R4914:2
Luke 20:35
Shall be -- Showing that these referred to were not yet accounted

worthy; that some future trial must be undergone by them which would
demonstrate their worthiness to attain the resurrection. R915:6 In death
no progress can be made in attaining or being counted worthy. Thus Jesus'
words teach a future trial for mankind in which the woman and seven
husbands who were already dead, and who were not believers in Christ, may
have a part. R915:6
Accounted worthy -- It is an open question as yet whether the woman and
the seven husbands will be accounted worthy of that age, worthy of
resurrection--of being raised up again to the perfection lost in Adam, and
entering the everlasting state. The worthiness or unworthiness of each
will be demonstrated by their conduct when awakened from death. R1107:1,2
The trial of the Millennial age will be so complete and the lessons of
obedience so well impressed upon men that only the "worthy" will attain to
the condition of perfection. R916:1
Extremely few, a "Little Flock," are counted worthy to attain that world
and the "better" resurrection in advance of the Millennium. The great mass
of mankind will come forth unto a "resurrection by judgment." It will
remain for them to prove themselves worthy of perfect life. F712
No doubt, referring to the spiritual resurrection. R1510:1
The resurrection to spiritual conditions is in Scripture designated as
special, the first resurrection. It is also frequently designated, as
here, by the article the (very noticeable in the Greek text, but less so
in our English translations). R277:3, 205:6, 194:6
We at one time held the view that the resurrection here referred to was
the First Resurrection. But, if so, the Greek word translated resurrection
should be emphatic. On critical examination we find that anastasis, as
here used, is not specially emphasized. R915:2
Leaving the question of human conditions during the period of
"resurrection by judgment" for amplification under other Scriptures.
R4411:3
In this statement our Lord omits any reference to the masses of the world
and their opportunities for restitution to human perfection through a
judgment-resurrection, a resurrection depending upon their cooperation.
R1510:1
As we examine the context it is evident that not the resurrected condition
of the Church is discussed, but the resurrected condition of the world.
R915:3
We cannot understand our Lord's words to apply to the saints who will
share in the first resurrection, for the inquiry and conversations were
regarding another class, and by another class. R1107:1
Only those willfully opposed to righteousness when clearly seen, will be
condemned as unworthy of life; and such as then die, will die the second
death. R1107:4
To obtain -- Attain. R915:2
Gradually. Q588:3
To attain to the resurrection seems to mean progressing until they reach
the full resurrection. Q462:3
Those who will walk on the highway of holiness must "go up thereon." (Isa.
35:9) F713
That world -- Age. R915:5
Our Lord's answer steps right over the Millennial age or period of
attaining perfection (resurrection). R915:5
He does not explain how it will be during the Millennial age, while the
race is being awakened, but points his words to "that age" of perfection
which will follow the Millennium of testing. 1107:1
All who attain that age will be worthy, because all not counted worthy,
the great Judge will cut off, destroy from amongst the people. R916:2
The resurrection -- Turning the subject away from the suppositionary
case suggested by the Sadducees, our Lord took occasion to drop a word of
instruction respecting the first or chief resurrection--the resurrection
of the blessed and holy. (Rev. 20:6) R1509:6
Here, and in verses 33 and 36, anastasis has the Greek article, showing
emphasis and showing the first or special resurrection. The emphasis, when
used with anastasis always marks the statement as relating to the chief or
spiritual resurrection. R1512:2
From the dead -- Out from dead ones. The emphasis on "resurrection" and
"dead" here, intensified by the expression "out from dead ones," leaves no
room for doubt that the Lord referred to the first resurrection. R1510:1
Neither marry -- Marriage is an arrangement that God instituted for the
very special purpose that a race might be produced, and with the human
family only. R4914:2, 916:2; OV383:2
When the Church shall be changed, all the peculiarities of male and female
will be obliterated. Mankind will be sexless when perfection shall have
been reached. R4914:3
When the great plan of God shall be completed by bringing restitution to
the world, this restitution will bring humanity to that condition in which
Adam was previous to the separation of the woman from him. R5900:1
When, by the end of the Millennium, the world shall have come to the place
where Adam was originally, then all necessity for the male and female
condition for the propagation of the race shall cease, and they will be
like unto the angels in that respect. Q203:1
As Adam originally possessed all the qualities of character, masculine and
feminine, so humanity, when fully restore to the image and likeness of
God, will re-attain perfection of individuality. Sex divisions will then
be no more. PD9/16
Thus man will receive again that which was taken from him originally,
represented by the rib. (Gen. 2:21) R4914:5
God chose to make the man perfect in himself at "first," and then to sex
him into twain for an intimation and illustration of what the race shall
be when God's plans concerning it are fulfilled. R916:3
In producing a race from one, who in trial would represent all, one also
might redeem all. Thus God prevented the creation of a companion and made
proper the division of the one into two. R916:3
The figure of husband and wife is used frequently to represent the union
between the Lord and the Church, but in no case to represent anything akin
to motherhood on the part of the Church. On the contrary, the figure
generally used in reference to the period beyond our union represent the
twain as one--Head and Body. R916:6
Given in marriage -- Isa. 65:20,23 seems to indicate that child-bearing
will continue for some time, at least, into the Millennial age, if not up
to within one hundred years or thereabouts of its close. R4411:2
As to what will take place during the Millennium, I could only give you a
guess, because there is no Scripture on the subject. My guess would be
that this matter [marrying] would gradually be getting less and less.
Q462:3
Luke 20:36
Neither can -- The Common Version says, they are like angels, neither
can they die any more, and that is the way I think it is intended to be
read and understood. Q202:5
We prefer will, or may, rather than can as the translation of the Greek
word dunamis, because it gives the thought of the text more clearly. R916:3
Applicable both to the Church and to the world. Applicable to the Church
first, because it is dealt with first. Q202:5
Neither will men die any more, for they will be perfect. Q203:1
When we are spirit beings we will not die any more. If we have immortality
we cannot die any more. And we would be like angels, for the angels do not
marry and the Little Flock, in the resurrection will not be male or
female. Q203:T
The resurrection to the immortal condition; "on such" the second death
hath no power (Rev. 20:6). All the balance of mankind are to be raised,
but "every man in his own order." R194:6, 170:2*, 145:3*
Equal unto the angels -- Sexless. Q588:3
In regard to sex and freedom from death. R916:4
The word "equal" here is a poor translation. The sense is "like." See
Diaglott and Young's Translation. R916:1
While men and angels are of different natures, they will be alike in some
respects. R916:1
There is no arrangement in God's plan to have any on the spirit plane
either male or female. R4914:2
Angels are surely meet companions for each other, yet not male and female.
R916:3
Angels are probably without sex, neither male nor female. Man, as
originally created in God's image, was probably the same in that regard,
like unto the angels. R916:2
Males and females will all lose their distinctive features, and become
again as Adam was in the beginning--each complete in himself--when the
earth shall be filled with people. God does not design to over-fill the
earth, simply to fill it. R5900:1, 5141:1, 916:2
At the close of the Millennial age, all having been gradually perfected,
each sex will, in their development, have taken on more of the qualities
of the other. R4914:3
The division of Adam into two parts, male and female, left the headship
with the male, but deprived him of some of his sympathetic qualities. His
wife, predominating in the sympathetic tendencies, had in her perfection
less of the masculine and aggressive traits. R5141:2
Man never was an angel and never was intended to be an angel. Man is of
the earth, earthy. R4914:2
Children of God -- Only those who bear his image and are in harmony with
him does he recognize as his children. Others, impure and disobedient, who
bear the image of Satan, are called "children of wrath," "children of the
devil," etc. R916:4
Angels are called "sons of God," and Adam in his first estate (sinless) is
called a "son of God." R916:4
He will not recognize them as children until the "worthy" ones have been
perfected (raised up to perfection) in the end of that age. R916:5
To be recognized as God's child is to be recognized as one entitled to the
"liberty of the sons of God"--freedom from pain, death, etc. R916:5
Of -- By. R915:5
Luke 20:37
The dead are raised -- Are to be raised. E352; R2198:1

God of Abraham -- The God who had made promises to these would surely
fulfill them; implying that from the divine standpoint they were not
extinct, not annihilated. R2805:4
In saying, "I am the God of Abraham," etc., he speaks not only of things
past as still present, but also of things to come as if already come to
pass. (Rom. 4:17) R1881:3; PD32/44; Q211:4
Their God in a prophetic sense, in view of what he intended to do for
them. R4657:1
Not given as proof that the patriarchs were in heaven or alive somewhere,
but a proof that the dead would rise. R5207:2, 3854:4; CR374:2
Our Lord was combatting the theory of the Sadducees that there will be no
resurrection. R5108:2, 5207:2, 3854:4; E352; CR374:2
Luke 20:38
Not a God of the dead -- The extinct, for whom no future is designed.
R2198:1
If there were no resurrection, God could not have spoken of them as he
did. But this does not prove that the patriarchs were in heaven at the
time, for Jesus distinctly tells us that at the time in which he was
speaking no man had ever ascended into heaven (John 3:13). R5207:2, 2805:5
If Abraham, Isaac and Jacob were dead in the sense that the beast is dead,
God would never have spoken of them in this manner. (Exod. 3:6) R5108:3,
4160:5, 1881:3
Of the living -- Not that Abraham, Isaac and Jacob were not dead, but
that there would be a resurrection for them. R2805:5
Because of this, our Lord spoke of death as a sleep, in view of the
awakening in the morning of the resurrection. R1631:6
God purposes their awakening, and speaks of the present condition of
Adamic death as merely a suspension of life, and not as annihilation,
extermination, extinction. R5041:4
Not the Ancient Worthies alone, but the rest of the world live unto God in
the same sense, although they were not counted acceptable to him. R5073:2
All live unto him -- In Christ, who ransoms and justifies all. R666:6
In view of the new source of life which will in due time reach and restore
all. R875:3*
God's plan for a resurrection is fixed. Those whom men call "dead" "all
live unto Him"--from God's standpoint they only "sleep," and are not
destroyed. E352; R5611:5; HG333:5; PD32/44
Luke 20:39
Thou hast well said -- As a result of this lesson, the Jews thereafter
spoke of their dead as "asleep" and "waiting for the morning" to be
"awakened." R2198:1
Luke 20:40
Durst not ask -- Because it did them more harm than good. R5230:3
Luke 20:42
The Lord -- Jehovah. E129; R1411:1, 379:5

Said unto my Lord -- Greek, adon, master, ruler, the resurrected Christ.
E49, 129; R1411:1, 379:5
On my right hand -- In the position of favor and power. A92
Luke 20:46
Beware of the scribes -- He needed not that any man should testify of
them, for he knew what was in them. R1696:4
Luke 20:47
Devour widows' houses -- By bidding them in at forced sale. R3316:2

Take advantage of widows to accumulate property for themselves. R5389:3,
5338:6, 4795:2
You do not "love thy neighbor as thyself" (Lev. 19:18), to assist the
poor, the widow and the fatherless. R4795:2
Violating God's law of justice, love and mercy. R5338:6
Jesus denounced such religion and mammon-worship as hypocrisy. R3047:4
Luke 21
Luke 21:2
Poor widow -- Giving is a privilege which is within the reach of the

very poorest of the Lord's people. R5927:4
No saint has so little that he has nothing to spend for him who did so
much for us. The less we have, proportionately greater is the sacrifice
when we give. R548:6
Two mites -- If we cannot give much, let us not deliberately conclude
that we cannot give anything. R450:1*
The two mites principle applies to influence and time as well as to money.
R548:6
The difficulty with some is in trying to do too much, more than their
ability to do, and in overlooking the little things that are within their
ability. R1334:5
The smallest copper coin in circulation, worth about one-eighth of a cent.
R5522:4
It is not the great things that any of us do or attempt, which the Lord
highly esteems. R5522:5
The true principle of sacrifice seeks to offer not the poorest, but the
choicest to the Lord. R548:6
Luke 21:3
Cast in more -- A giver on the very highest plane--after his own heart.
F343
Our Lord esteems gifts not according to the amount given, but chiefly
according to the spirit which prompts the gift. R5927:3, 450:1*
The less we have, proportionately greater is the sacrifice when we give.
R548:6
Luke 21:4
All the living -- In her way, she was doing the same that our Lord
himself was doing--giving, not merely a living, but laying down life
itself. F343
Jesus did not caution the poor widow that she had done more than her duty.
F343, 344
Luke 21:6
Not be left -- When uttered, this seemed most improbable. The city and
country were more prosperous than for a long time. The temple, after 46
years of building, had just been completed and was truly magnificent. Yet,
within forty years, it was in awful ruin. R1983:5
Luke 21:7
They asked -- In studying this prophecy it is very necessary to keep in

memory the questions to which it is the inspired answer. D565
These things -- The destruction of the Temple, etc. D564; R1983:2
Luke 21:8
Be not deceived -- He wished them to understand that they must not

expect immediately the honors and glories of the Kingdom. D563
I am Christ -- Gamaliel mentions two of these false Christs in his
speech referred to in Acts 5:36,37; and history tells us of several others
who deceived quite a few Jews; notably, Sabbathai Levi of Smyrna, AD 1648.
D565
Altogether, there have probably been fifty or more false Christs, male and
female; but none of these, nor all of them together, can be said to have
deceived many. D566
Whoever claims headship of the Church, as Pope, Czar, Synod, and
especially the "Image of the Beast." (Rev. 13:15) D565, 580, 581
Luke 21:9
Ye shall hear -- "A rumor shall come in one year, and after that in
another [a second] year shall come a rumor." (Jer. 51:46) Applying to the
same time period as Luke 21:8,9. R5969:2*
Wars and commotions -- Thus briefly did our Lord summarize secular
history and teach the disciples not to expect very soon his second coming
and glorious Kingdom. D566
Not by and by -- These would not be an indication that the end of the
age was near. HG397:6
Luke 21:11
Great earthquakes -- The term earthquake is used to symbolically

represent revolution, the great shaking of the present institutions which
will overthrow everything that is not of the Lord's establishment and
approval. HG399:4
Social upheavals are pictured under the symbolism of earthquakes, the
mountains being carried into the sea, etc., and similarly uprisings of the
social elements in anarchy are pictured as tidal waves engulfing the
mountains, the governments. HG401:1
We speak of literal earthquakes because, in the divine order, there seems
to be a harmony between the literal and the figurative. The literal
earthquakes have their part, too, in the great program. HG399:4
Famines and earthquakes have in all ages given evidence that not only man,
but his home, the earth, is under the curse. R879:1
We may be sure that great changes must take place in the climates and
soils of the earth before it will be prepared, as was the garden of Eden,
to be a fit home for perfect man. R879:4
A New England professor delivered an opinion that a great earthquake would
shatter the huge cap of ice which for centuries has covered the south
pole. He predicted that this would so adjust and equalize the weight of
the waters of the earth that the axis of the earth's rotation would be
corrected. HG400:4
In connection with the quakings of society, the overturning of kingdoms
(symbolic mountains), we may expect wars, pestilences, earthquakes and
famines, not as heretofore, but to an extent never before known. R879:2
It is far from our thought that an earthquake is of itself a sign of the
end of the age. We remember that history tells us of various earthquakes
in the past, so that these alone would prove little respecting the time in
which we are living. HG398:1
Famines -- We cannot pray our Father to grant abundant harvests, send
rains, prevent famines, droughts, wars and pestilences. God will permit
these things until the reign of Christ is inaugurated. R798:4
Luke 21:12
Before all these -- It certainly was not before a great earthquake that
the Church began to suffer persecution. R879:2
Persecute you -- Loyalty to Christ will bring persecution and
misunderstanding. R5806:3; D564
"All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution." (2
Tim. 3:12) D567
Luke 21:14
Not to meditate before -- Does not imply that ministers of Christ should
neglect studying their subject. R5391:4
Luke 21:15
Give you -- Choosing, as at the first advent, from among the laity, the
common people, his mouthpieces. R2599:1
The Lord's faithful followers. R5391:4
In both advents, his chosen mouthpieces from among "the common people."
(Mark 12:37) R2599:1
The Truth is his, and you are his--his ambassadors. R698:3
A mouth -- Let the spirit of the glorious truths you now see so fill
your heart that out of its fullness your mouths may speak to the Lord's
praise, and to the enlightenment and profit of your opposers as well as
the hearers. R698:2
Wisdom -- They would have wisdom superior to that which was naturally
theirs. R5391:4
Able to gainsay -- Do we not find the same principle illustrated today,
when humble ones amongst the Lord's people are more than a match for all
their adversaries? The truth, being powerful, prevails, though it is not
always acknowledged to prevail. R2952:2
You will find that none, even those professing to be teachers and
ministers of the gospel, will be able to withstand the Sword of the Spirit
with which knowledge of the truth arms you. R825:4
"The wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the understanding of their
prudent men shall be hid." (Isa. 29:9-19) R2599:1
Nor resist -- Of Stephen it is written, "They were not able to resist
the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake." (Acts 6:10) R2952:2
We do not advocate public debating of the truth. R2952:2
Luke 21:16
And ye -- The Little Flock. Compare Micah 7:5,6. R2142:5*
Luke 21:17
Be hated -- The Christian's love, zeal and faith in God's Word, and his
uncompromising attitude relating to these so greatly contrast with the
prevalent spirit that he is thought peculiar, called an extremist and
fanatic, if not a hypocrite. R1653:2
The stones that kill the Stephens of our day are labeled hate, revenge,
persecution, malice, scandal and ridicule. R2282:4
Wherever the truth goes, it will be like a sword to separate, especially
in the home and family. R2852:6
Evil surmisings out of unconsecrated hearts will attribute every good deed
to some selfish or evil motive. R1653:2
My name's sake -- Christ's. R1653:2
Luke 21:19
In your patience -- Patient endurance, cheerful, hopeful constancy.

R4910:6, 5651:1, 2791:3
"Wait ye upon me, saith the Lord, until the day that I rise up to the
prey." (Zeph. 3:8) R4135:1
If ever the Church needed this counsel, it is now. R5651:5
Only those who are able to patiently endure will stand in this evil day.
R5651:6
Now is the time for remembering that God has a plan that is surely working
out. R4135:1
Possess ye -- So long as we live in the present age, when sin abounds
and Satan is the prince, we must expect tribulation. Nevertheless, we are
fully under divine care and protection, even though persecutions are
permitted to reach and affect us. R4910:6, 2791:3
Our faith and trust in the Lord and his promises should be so strong and
unwavering that they will far more than counterbalance the opposition of
the world, false brethren and of Satan's blinded servants. R5651:1, 2791:3
By enduring our trials. R3584:3
Because the ministrations permitted of his providence are for our ultimate
good. R2791:4
Especially when weary in well-doing because of the reproaches of them that
are without the pale of discipleship; when temptations, violent or subtle,
may press hard upon us, when trials and cares may sorely afflict. R2073:4*
Your souls -- Our lives, as new creatures. R5651:1
Our lives, enjoying them even amongst tribulation, with cheerful
endurance. R2791:4
Luke 21:20
And when -- Referring, primarily, to the destruction of Jerusalem and

the Jewish polity in the close of the Jewish age, although they have a
secondary reference to events in the end of the Gospel age, the antitype
of the Jewish age. R1983:2
Ye shall see Jerusalem -- This portion of our Lord's prophecy evidently
related to events upon fleshly Israel; and history tells us that it was
accurately fulfilled in every particular in the troublous scenes wherewith
the Jewish age and polity came to an end. D569
Our Lord's words, quoted by Matthew and Mark, differ from Luke, and
evidently apply to the trouble upon spiritual Israel in the end of the
Gospel age. D570
Compassed with armies -- The Roman army besieged the city, and then
suddenly withdrew (AD 69). Vespasian, the Roman general, learning of the
death of the Roman emperor, and that insurrection prevailed at Rome,
hastened thither and assumed the emperorship. R1983:2
Luke 21:21
Then let them -- Before Titus had assumed command of the army and
renewed the siege of Jerusalem, the Christians of the city acted upon our
Lord's instruction, fled from the doomed city, and thus escaped the awful
horrors of its siege, in which it is claimed that 1,100,000 Jews perished.
R1983:2
To the mountains -- "Who shall ascend into the mountain of the Lord? who
shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure
heart." (Psa. 24:3-6) R1963:4*
Luke 21:22
These be -- As Jesus in his day called the attention of the Jews to the
judgment of God about to come, so here it becomes our place to speak the
word of God, that the nominal church and world-united system shall be cast
down and consumed. R235:5
Days of vengeance -- As a nation, the Jews had experienced great
blessings and privileges, and these being misused brought great darkness
and ultimately a terrible national judgment. All of these things
correspond to the conditions in the harvest or end of this Gospel age.
R1983:2
The baptism of fire, of trouble, spoken of by John the Baptist. (Matt.
3:11) NS21:2
Shown by letter f on the Chart of the Ages, the fire through which fleshly
Israel went when Jesus was present. R273:6
Corresponding with the days of vengeance at the end of the Gospel age.
(Dan. 12:1) B219, 251; NS21:3
There have been other days of vengeance in the past bearing some likeness
to the coming day of vengeance: in Noah's day, and more particularly, in
the time of trouble which came upon the Jewish nation after their
rejection of Messiah. NS218:1
A time of trouble, which they were powerless to avert. R273:6
Luke 21:23
Wrath upon this people -- It burned fiercely against them in the great
time of trouble which led to the collapse of their national polity in AD
69-70, and they have been under that wrath and unable to reestablish
themselves as a nation from that day to the present time. R2564:1, 2236:6
Showing clearly that the closing work of that age included the day of
wrath, and reached to the destruction of Jerusalem; and that the harvest,
instead of being limited to three and a half or seven years, covered the
forty years from the Spring after his baptism to AD 70. R115:6*
"Who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?" (Luke 3:7) "Wrath is
come upon them to the uttermost." (1 Thess. 2:16) R2236:5, 2564:1
Upon this people -- The Jews, at the time Jerusalem was ruined. D569;
R235:5
Luke 21:24
Jerusalem -- As the city of Babylon represented the Empire of Babylon,

so the city of Jerusalem represented the Jewish nation. CR41:2; NS681:1
God's people, Israel after the flesh, are trodden under foot by the
Gentiles. During the same period Israel after the spirit, "the kingdom of
Heaven, suffereth violence and the violent take it by force." (Matt.
11:12) R1979:2
Shall be -- Shall continue to be. R1373:1
Trodden down -- When God's time came to turn over the dominion of the
earth to Gentile rule, it was appropriate that he should first remove the
typical crown from Israel, and that the typical kingdom should no longer
be recognized. They had proven themselves unfit for exaltation to
universal dominion. B75
For the past eighteen centuries, Jerusalem has had no commerce, no
industry, no outward brightness, lustre and splendor. R1297:2*
We have seen Israel scattered among all nations without favor, under the
withering, blighting curse of God, a distinct people, but not a nation.
R517:5*
In harmony with the Scriptures which tell of Israel's re-establishment as
the earthly representatives of God's Kingdom, the Zionist movement is
coming forth with good hopes of soon effecting a Jewish sub-kingdom.
NS681:6
Zionists are insisting that Palestine be made a Jewish state with a
government of its own, but subject to Turkey. We have reason to believe
that such a concession will not be granted nor attained before the close
of the Times of the Gentiles. R4572:1; NS681:6
Fleshly Israel cannot come into their long promised inheritance until that
time, though preparatory steps will previously be taken. B81
Jewish national polity cannot be restored until the elect Church is
complete (Rom. 11:25) and the period apportioned to Gentile governments
has run its course, AD 1915. R2237:2
The Times of the Gentiles will be fulfilled and they will lose their
empire at the same time that Israel's seven times of tribulation and
down-treading will terminate, and they shall come into favor and
association with Messiah and his Kingdom. OV53:3
We expect that the return of favor would be gradual, a like period of 36
years to that in which it was taken away (33-69 AD). This would bring us
to 1914 as the time when God's favor for his people would be gradually
manifested, during the closing hours of Gentile supremacy. SM401:1
The fact that there are now great preparations and expectations relative
to the return of Israel to their own land is of itself strong
circumstantial evidence corroborative of this Scripture teaching. B93
The heirs of the heavenly Kingdom must continue in humiliation, without
power or privilege of reigning, until the time appointed for them to reign
together with Christ. Their reign of righteousness over the world could
not precede AD 1915, when the Times of the Gentiles have expired. B81
At present, the kingdoms of this world belong to the Gentiles, and they do
not become "the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ," until the Times
of the Gentiles are fulfilled. HG19:6
Until their "seven times" shall end, the Kingdom of God cannot come into
universal dominion. However, like the others, it must obtain power
adequate to the overthrow of these kingdoms before it shall break them in
pieces. B100; HG676:1
Until -- Until the Lord's Anointed, whose right it is, shall come and
take the dominion and accomplish all his gracious purposes. B75
So long as these governments would be here they and Messiah's Kingdom
could not co-operate. The Gentile governments are based on selfishness and
coercion; Christ's Kingdom is based on justice, love and mercy. The two
could not rule at the same time. R5526:2
Jerusalem will be free at that time, and thence-forward be a praise in the
earth. R109:4*
The blindness that has veiled with night the lost of Israel's fold, will
be replaced by Gospel light when "Gentile Times" are told. HG320:3
The Israelites were restored from Babylonian captivity, but they did not
receive back the Kingdom; they were thereafter subject to the great
dominant kingdoms of the world. HG41:3
Times of the Gentiles -- The term was applied by our Lord to that
interval of earth's history between the removal of the typical kingdom of
God, the Kingdom of Israel, and the establishment of its antitype, the
true Kingdom of God. B73; CR41:3; HG20:1; NS681:4
During this interval, the dominion of earth was to be exercised by Gentile
governments; and Israel, both fleshly and spiritual, have been and are to
be subject to these powers until their time is expired. B73
The dominion of earth, under certain limitations, would be left in the
hands of the Gentiles. OV53:2
That is to say, the years of the Gentiles; the years in which the Gentiles
would bear rule over Israel and all the earth; the period in which God
would have no representative nation in the world. CR41:3; NS681:5
If there are Gentile times to be fulfilled, they must have been foretold;
if foretold, they were foreordained or planned of God, who knew beforehand
how long they would be and when they would be fulfilled. R5564:1; CR41:2;
NS681:2
Implying that the times of the Gentiles must have a definitely appointed
limit; because an unlimited, indefinite period could not be said to be
fulfilled. B78
These seven times of the Gentiles are the same seven times of Israel, only
to the one they have meant seven times of domination which would close,
and to the other they have meant seven times (2520 years) of being
dominated until the close of the times. NS684:5
"I will punish you seven times more [further] for your sins." (Lev. 26:17,
18, 24, 28) These seven times refer to the length of time during which the
Gentiles should rule over them--"the Times of the Gentiles." B88
God told Israel they would come under his disfavor for seven times (Lev.
26:14-28). These could not be literal years, for they had many
tribulations longer than seven years. They must be symbolic, each
"equalling" 360 years; seven times being 7 x 360 years, or 2,520 years.
R5564:3, 109:4*; B89; CR44:1; OV53:1, 416:2; Q84:1, 93:8; NS30:6, 684:1
In proof that a day for a year is Bible usage in symbolic prophecy, we
cite: Num. 14:33, 34; Ezek. 4:1-8; Dan. 9:24-27; 7:25; 12:7; Rev. 12:14;
13:5; 12:6. B91
The method of calculation demonstrated. B90
A period of 2,520 years from the year BC 606 to and including AD 1914.
B79; HG675:6
A period of 2,520 years which began with Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon,
at the time the Lord permitted his own typical kingdom of Israel to be
overthrown, to so remain until Messiah's day. R5710:3
It began with Nebuchadnezzar, not when his reign began, but when the
typical kingdom of the Lord passed away, and the dominion of the whole
world was left in the hands of the Gentiles. B79
From the last king of David's line, King Zedekiah, in 606 BC. We would not
say that it was not 605 or 607, but that as nearly as we can tell it was
the year 606 BC. R5564:2; HG48:1
The Israelites were restored from the Babylonian captivity, but they did
not receive back the kingdom; they were thereafter subject to the great
dominant kingdoms of the world. NS681:5
It is for this period, during which the crown or Kingdom of God is
overturned in the earth, that God gives a lease of ruling authority to the
Gentiles. R1979:2
They were merely given this lease in the interim because God's time had
not yet come for the establishment of his Kingdom. Q85:T
Their days of empire are limited to seven times, or 2,520 years, which
will end in AD 1915, giving place to the Kingdom of God in the hands of
the Messiah, whose right it is to rule the world. R1373:2
Historically, these Gentile kings and peoples have accepted their
dominions as favors from the gods whom they worshipped. This same theory,
accepted by the masses of the people, is blazoned forth on medals, coins
and papers of state in the words, "King by the grace of God." B74
The removal of God's kingdom in the days of Zedekiah left the world
without any government of which God could approve, or whose laws or
affairs he specially supervised. The Gentile governments God recognized
indirectly. A249
So long as God had an organized reigning kingdom on earth, there could be
no universal Gentile kingdom. HG48:2
God determined to let the Gentile kingdoms take control and try the
experiment of ruling the world, that thus the world might also learn the
futility of its own efforts at self-government while in its present sinful
condition. B75; HG676:1
When their highest attainment shall be demonstrated to be trouble,
confusion and anarchy, the world will become heartsick with its own
failure, and the Lord's Kingdom shall be hailed as the "desire of all
nations." (Hag. 2:7) NS30:3
During which four great universal empires, world governments, have
attempted to bring blessings to mankind. They have all proved weak as far
as righteousness is concerned and strong as far as evil is concerned.
R5710:3, 5564:3, 5526:2; SM417:1
While God does not approve nor commend these governments, he recognizes
their dominion. B73
Earthly governments, all along, have been held to be divine governments,
the kings and emperors of earth claiming that they rule the people by the
grace of God--by the sanction, permission, authority of God. NS487:5
The image of Dan. 2 measures the duration of the Times of the Gentiles.
R3359:4*; HG676:1; OV417:1, 53:2; Q94:2; NS682:4
The Times of the Gentiles is the period between the time that the image
was set up, or came into power, and the time that the stone is to smite
the image upon the feet and crush its power. Q82:1
By the end of 1914 the lease of power will expire. The Gentiles will be
served with a notice to quit. They are not prepared to quit. The officer
who comes to put them out might not be a good man at all, it may be
anarchy. Q85:T, 97:3
The time during which the four great beasts of Dan. 7 were to tread down
the whole earth. HG20:2; NS682:5
Clearly represented in Dan. 4 by the seven times of Nebuchadnezzar and his
bitter experience among the beasts. B90, 93-96; R109:5*; CR44:6; HG49:1;
OV53:3; NS30:4, 684:4
Unless it was to foreshadow the degradation and the duration of Gentile
Times, we know of no reason for the recording of this scrap of the history
of a heathen king. B97
We rejoice to think that at the conclusion of the symbolic seven times,
mankind will return to a reasonable and proper view of the Almighty and of
their responsibility to him, as did Nebuchadnezzar, their representative.
NS30:5
We have been "taught of God" through his Word to expect no permanent peace
from even the best intentioned monarchs and governments during these Times
of the Gentiles. R2361:1
God declared to Abraham: "In thy seed shall all the families of the earth
be blessed." This was the earliest suggestion of a universal dominion over
earth, implying a peculiar superiority of this ruler above all others. B74
The Greek word here rendered "times" is kairos, which signifies a "fixed
time." It is translated "times" in Mark 1:15; 1 Tim. 6:15; Rev. 12:14;
Acts 3:19; 17:26 and "seasons" in Acts 1:7. B78
Let no one mistake the Times of the Gentiles, for the fullness of the
Gentiles. (Rom. 11:25) They are entirely distinct. HG20:1
The term Gentile included not only barbarians, but also the most civilized
people of the world outside of Israel, outside of the special covenants
and promise of the Lord which pertain to the present time. NS25:1
A prophetic year (or time) of 360 days, used to symbolize 360 years, is
an arbitrary arrangement, peculiar to its intended symbolic use. R1979:6
Be fulfilled -- Or, filled full. CR41:5
Or, completed. R1373:1
And the time of Messiah's theocratic government is at hand. NS849:6
The Lord did not say that the Jews were about to come under Gentile
dominion. They had already lost their national independence when
Nebuchadnezzar, the world's first conqueror, overthrew their government.
Israel would continue to be subject to the Gentile kingdoms. NS24:4
When we read that certain times will be fulfilled, we are justified in
thinking that these times have been foretold. CR41:2
The great war now raging in Europe [1915] seems to be the beginning of the
end of Gentile Times. R5794:5
The Gentile Times having closed does not mean the Gospel message was
closed. R5602:1
Luke 21:25
And -- The connection with the preceding verses clarifies what is not so
clearly manifest in Matthew and Mark, that these signs follow the
tribulations of the Gospel age, and not those in the harvest. D584
Leaping over centuries, pointing to events near the close of the Gentile
Times. R1983:5
There shall be signs -- To give a general idea as to the time when the
Kingdom would be nigh. R1983:5
While literal signs served their designed purpose to draw general
attention to the time of the end, we believe that the symbolic
fulfillments are no less striking and even more interesting to those whose
mental and spiritual perceptives are awakened. D590
In the sun -- Representing the Gospel light, the truth; and thus, Jesus.
D590
The true gospel sunlight is already darkened. R1305:2
The sunlight of the ransom becomes obscured. D592
The remarkable darkening of the sun and moon was on May 19, 1780. D585;
R1983:5
While we believe also in a symbolic fulfillment of the darkening of the
sun and falling of the stars, yet we cannot overlook the literal
fulfillment. R1983:5
In the moon -- The light of the Mosaic Law. As the moon is a reflection
of the light of the sun, so the Law was the shadow, or reflection
beforehand, of the Gospel. D590
The darkening of the Gospel sunlight results in the darkening of the
moonlight. D593
As the sunlight of the ransom becomes obscured, so the moonlight of the
Mosaic Law, which in its sacrifices foreshadowed the ransom, must of
necessity become obscured also. D592
The reflected sunlight of the gospel, shining in the typical sacrifices of
the Jewish Law, has become obscured. R1305:2
"The moon shall be turned into blood." (Joel 2:10) When the Gospel light
is obscured, the Law comes to be regarded merely as a meaningless and
barbaric ceremony of blood. D593
In the stars -- Representing the inspired teachers of the Church, the
apostles. D591
The teachings of the God-ordained twelve stars of the Church (the
apostles) will also fade from view--cease to be recognized guides or
lights. D593
The word star (Greek, aster) is not used respecting any of the faithful
(outside the apostles) in referring to them in this present life. D593
Faithful, humble lamplight-shiners of this present time shall by and by
with Christ be the glorious and honored seed of Abraham--"as the stars of
heaven," but not in the present "heavens" which shall shortly pass away.
D594
If God only ordained twelve stars as lights for his Church (Rev. 12:1), is
it not a great mistake for popes and bishops to regard themselves as
successors of the apostles--stars also? D594
Many stars, bright ones, are falling from heaven. R1305:2
Many false stars have fallen from every pretense of Gospel shining to the
level of the comprehension of the masses to whom they shine. D596
The notable falling of stars, or meteoric shower, was on the morning of
Nov. 13, 1833. D588; R1983:5
Upon the earth -- A trouble more dreadful than any preceding experience,
in the sense that it will be world-wide, and not a local disturbance, as
were the previous seasons of destruction. Q848:4
Distress of nations -- The notion that we are to pass, by the peaceful
evolutionary processes of a broadening culture, by the achievements of
discovery and invention, and by the universal acceptance of the gospel,
into the golden age of millennial blessedness is, in the light of
prophecy, the baseless fabric of a dream. R1612:1*
This war [1914] will proceed and will eventuate in no glorious victory for
any nation, but in the horrible mutilation and impoverishment of all. Next
will follow the Armageddon of anarchy. HG674:3
When the war [1914] is ended, the nations, sorrowful and famine-stricken,
will be greatly angered at their rulers. They will come the determination
for something like Socialism. This the governments will endeavor to put
down, and to some extent they will succeed. Then will follow the great
explosion--the Armageddon of the Scriptures. HG676:6
With perplexity -- They will face a condition of things never before
known in the world. Although there have been revolutions, never before
have the people been so intelligent, educated, capable of initiative,
trained in military skill and able to assert and fight for their
conception of their rights. NS487:5
The kings of Europe know not what to do. All sectarianism is being shaken.
Many people of God are in perplexity. OV274:5 The perplexity of
financiers examined. R5658:6, 5632:3, 5633:5; A332
Thrones stand unsteady, and throughout the world there is a feeling of
distrust among all classes. R353:1*
Some praying for the success of the Allied armies, others praying for just
the reverse, still others praying that the war shall not go on. Before
praying, it would be well to determine God's purposes in regard to this
war [1914], in order to pray in harmony with his arrangements. SM412:3
Feeling their own incompetency to cope with the mighty power of the
awakening world, the civil authorities, in sheer desperation, call to mind
the former power of Papacy. Though they hate the tyrant, they are willing
to make large concessions, if by this means they may succeed in holding in
check the discontented peoples. D131
The sea -- Those who have seen the mighty deep thoroughly aroused and
have witnessed its terrific power and the destruction sometimes wrought,
have a wholesome dread of it. NS483:3
The proportion of sea to land, the origin of the seas, sea-level, and the
contrast between sea depths and mountain heights applied symbolically.
NS484:3
The sea and the waves of the troubled masses of humanity are already
beginning to heave and toss and foam. The increasing winds of strife are
driving the great sea of mankind into a frenzied state of revolt against
the present social order. Q841:4
The waves -- Nihilism, communism, socialism and anarchism. Q841:4
The restless and lawless elements. D596
The restless and discontented. R4943:6
The peoples of the world, moved by selfishness themselves, will rage
against selfishness and power exercised against them, until the entire
social structure will succumb to the power of this great flood. NS484:3
Curbed, but not fully restrained, by the laws and regulations of society.
D596
Roaring -- In the time of trouble with which the Millennial age will be
introduced. The symbolic mountains, kingdoms of the earth, will go down,
overwhelmed by the symbolic sea in an anarchistic storm. (Psa. 46:1-3)
When Messiah's Kingdom shall bring order out of confusion, there will be
no more sea, no longer any restless, dissatisfied element. Q842:2
Kingdoms thrown into anarchy and society entirely swallowed up by the sea.
NS484:1
The hand which has stayed the winds while the gathering and sealing of the
Elect has been in progress will no longer stay them. The winds of
selfishness, strife, passion, anger, covetousness, hatred, will be allowed
to blow. NS559:2
The clamoring of restless masses through unions, strikes, etc. R487:2
Every newspaper, not under the control of wealth, voices the roar of the
restless "sea" class; and the others, though unwilling, must give the echo
of the roaring as matters of news. D596
"The voice of the day of the Lord" (Zeph. 1:14), as it comes from various
quarters and swells into a mighty roar of the sea class will not be heard
nor heeded, nor will relief be granted, nor the threatened crash and wreck
of present institutions be avoided. R2216:6
"Given forth hath the deep its voice." (Hab. 3:10, Young's Literal
Translation) R1813:4
The utterance of the faith of Israel's faithful is that, though the sea
and the waves roar, there is a river whose streams gladden them. (Psa.
46:2,3) R302:6
Luke 21:26
Men's hearts -- The great, rich and mighty, ecclesiastically and

socially. R1305:2
For fear -- Well-grounded fears. OV339:2; SM691:2
The difficulty with many is, that, seeing these approaching troubles from
the outside, they are losing confidence in divine providence. R2462:4
But their fears and their anguish will not be eternal. When the trouble
shall have accomplished its work and burned itself out, it will be no
more, and instead of trouble, blessings shall come in. R3771:4
Not brotherly love, but fear, is the mainspring of the desire for
religious union. R1741:2
Out of this very fear Satan desires to make some capital wherewith to
bolster up the tottering walls of his ancient fortress and protect his
kingdom from ruin in the midst of the great time of trouble. R1704:2
The fear of impending revolution is driving every nation in Christendom to
extravagant preparations for war. D133
The fear of the "Yellow Peril" of China and Japan examined. R3619:3
The fear of capital and labor and union disputes examined. R2868:1
The conservative and wealthy classes recognize religion as the strongest
influence for the peaceable control of humanity. They see that, with the
growing intelligence of our day and the growing independence of thought
and action, the influence of all the different religious teachings over
the lower classes of society is on the decrease; and they fear the
results. R1705:2
It is a fact, not an assumption, that we are now living in a time when
crime and corruption have assumed prodigious proportions, not only in the
lower grades of society, but in what are called the upper grades. R353:1*
Noting the rise of Socialism, it is no wonder that we see kings and rulers
taking extra precautions to protect their interests from the threatening
dangers of revolution and world-wide anarchy. In fear and distress they
seek alliance one with another, though so great is their mutual distrust
that they have little to hope for in any alliance. D129
"All hands shall be feeble, and all knees shall be weak as water." (Ezek.
7:17) D149
God's people will be preserved from fear and doubt and misunderstanding of
the events of that time of trouble and their faith will enable them to
triumph at a time when others will be in great distress and perplexity.
NS790:5
Looking after -- Looking forward to. HG316:5
The editorials of some of our greatest newspapers read as if written from
the standpoint of present truth, so remarkably do they foretell what they
declare to be almost certain to follow this present [1914] terrible war.
R5989:3
Which are coming -- Is it any wonder than the trepidation of the
financial and political princes of the earth is great as they look into
the future. OV339:2; SM691:2
The fear and trepidation will come in advance of the trouble itself.
NS487:4
When we, a few years ago, called attention to the overthrow of government
by Communism, the idea was ridiculed. Communism was then little known or
felt. Today [1882], every nation is in dread, and Nihilism, Communism and
Socialism are household words. R410:4, 26:6; B99
The earth -- Society. D413, 596; R4943:3, 1379:4
The social order; because of the shaking of the heavens, the
ecclesiastical systems. OV339:2; SM692:T
Powers of heaven -- Ecclesiasticism. R4943:6
Religious powers. R1741:2
Governments. R410:4
Government--ecclesiastical and civil. D413, 591
The influence of the religious element, religious doctrines. NS487:4
Sectarian creeds and systems. D597
Shall be shaken -- The public are losing their superstition, theologians
are admitting that their doctrines of the past are untenable in the light
of the present, and many are leading the public into infidelity, called
Higher Criticism. NS487:4
The nominal church, gradually drawn more and more to the side of
governments and the wealthy, will lose much of its influence over the
people, and will finally fall with the governments. A333
A great and very general storm is even now in progress. The thunders roll
and the lightnings flash in every quarter of the ecclesiastical heavens.
R1305:2
A shaking up of the creeds and dogmas of Christendom, which, because of
their admixture of errors, produce confusion wherever referred to. D595
The creed-smashing already begun will, if it continue, release from the
bonds of superstition and ignorance many who know no other restraints. The
result of such a liberation of such a class means a shaking of the earth,
society, as it has never before been shaken. R1305:2
Luke 21:27
See the Son -- Not the sign or proof of the Lord's presence, but, on the
contrary, the clouds of trouble and confusion incident to the shaking of
the "heavens," and realize it to be a storm which will shake the "earth"
also. D599
Eventually all mankind, at the close of the storm, shall discern,
recognize the new King with the eyes of their understanding and shall
mourn for sin, and that they ever in blindness rejected him--the Jew
first. (Zech. 12:10-12) D600
And great glory -- The glory of power and justice. B153
In the midst of the awful trouble and perplexity, Messiah's Kingdom will
take control. R5823:6
Luke 21:28
When -- The times and seasons were wisely hidden in the past, and the
saints were thus saved from discouragement, because the time was long; but
as the plan nears its glorious consummation, it is the privilege of the
saints to know. B25
These things -- If death for anarchists becomes law, no doubt also the
law of might will become so powerful as to throttle all liberty.
Opposition to civil government being esteemed worthy of death, it may be a
further step to declare a state religious doctrine, and proscribe those
who cannot assent to it as religious anarchists, also worthy of death.
R3890:5
The revealing of the time features now is as profitable and stimulating as
their revealing before would have been unprofitable and discouraging. B25
Begin -- The Master does not say, When ye see all these things, but,
When ye see the beginning of them. R5735:2
As soon as we should begin to see the events of the harvest come to pass,
we should expect a speedy realization of our glorious hope. C227
Look up -- Our Master, who gives us in his Word the inside information,
tells us to note the fulfillments. R2938:4
What a comfort and serenity of soul it gives to have the knowledge which
the Bible affords in respect to the present times and the grand outcome of
the trouble--Messiah's Kingdom. R5854:5
Daily we are getting ready for that Kingdom by proving and manifesting
that we have a thorough-going loyalty of heart to the coming Kingdom and
its principles of righteousness. CR493:6
If the worst should happen, we should remember that God is at the helm,
and that he will allow the pride and wrath to work out the great trouble
and the inauguration of Messiah's Kingdom. R5852:4
God has kindly veiled the eyes of humanity that they do not see the coming
storm in all its dread severity; because they have no eyes of faith to see
the resulting blessings as we see them. R5799:4
Lift up your heads -- Realizing that the dark clouds are the harbingers
of coming Millennial blessings. R1605:3
Christ's judgments encircling all the earth are "the signs and groanings
promised to precede a second birth." SM422:1
When this trouble comes, there will be such a blessing from the Lord that
those who go through it will be able to rejoice in tribulation. R5255:3
Those who discern in the shaking the outworking of the divine plan rejoice
in the assurance that this terrible shaking will be the last that the
earth will ever have or need; for, as the Apostle Paul assures us, it
signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken. D150
And rejoice, through your tears. SM317:1
We may also rejoice with the world that the blessed morning of the
Millennial Kingdom is at hand, even though we must weep with them also in
the dark hour of trouble which will precede the sunburst of the Millennial
Kingdom. NS31:4
We rejoice, not in the trouble, which surely saddens every tender heart;
but that thus the world will be prepared for the grand change of
government. R5805:6
The Lord's consecrated people cannot, in any sense of the word, rejoice at
the tribulation coming upon others. Their rejoicing can only be in respect
to the glorious things which they hope to experience, and which they know
to be near by these outward signs. HG400:2
Nor is this rejoicing selfish in its character; for the deliverance and
exaltation of the Church of Christ will be the harbinger of a speedy
deliverance to the whole race. C227; HG400:2
This does not mean that we should ever act or feel boastfully, or even
carelessly, respecting the welfare of humanity; but that with quiet
confidence we may look up to God and rest assured that all things are
working together for good--especially for the Church, but indirectly also
for the interests of all humanity. R5062:5
For forty years we have been proclaiming this very war [World War I] and
its glorious outcome. Now, when the very year has come and the prophecy is
being fulfilled, could we consistently ask the Almighty to change his
program? R5554:6
In that day, while the trouble draws on, the Lord will feed his people
with present truth. R1379:4
Well may the Church arise now and put on her beautiful garments; for very
shortly she is to receive beauty for ashes and the oil of joy for the
spirit of heaviness. R2036:3
Any who are not rejoicing, but who, on the contrary, are feeling
discouraged, despondent, and disappointed and ashamed of the truth, have
evidently wrong impressions. R5794:5
And lift up your voices and point the way to those who are bewildered and
troubled, who know not which way to go, nor where to seek for comfort.
R5633:6
Let us, as we drink of the brook (Psa. 110:7), take a lesson from the
little birds, which when drinking, repeatedly lift the head as though
giving thanks to God. R2936:5
The time for lifting up our heads in glory is nearing too, and already the
Master directs that seeing (with the eye of faith) the evidences of their
approach, we may lift up our heads. R2936:5
For -- All who learned of the coming troubles from the Lord's Word
before there were outward evidences of them are strengthened in their
faith by every fresh development, for they, by the same Word, know the
object of the troubles and the grand results they are outworking. R2462:4
Your redemption -- Pointing us forward to the salvation to be brought
unto us through the First Resurrection. F159
Greek, apolutrosis, simply signifying deliverance, "a loosing away." There
is no reference here to the ransom or the conditions precedent to the
Church's deliverance, but merely to the deliverance itself. E434; F159;
R4103:1, 3890:6, 2064:2, 2036:4, 1605:3
We are referred, not to the work of redemption accomplished in the
sacrifice of our Lord, but to the results of that work as they shall be
accomplished in the perfecting of the Church in the First Resurrection.
F159
Deliverance. R3890:6
Your deliverance, your exaltation and glory. B190
And their exaltation to power as God's Kingdom, and the blessing of all
the families of the earthy through that Kingdom. R1605:3
The morning cometh, although a brief, dark night must intervene. C227
If the deliverance of the Church meant eternal suffering to the non-elect,
how could we rejoice in it? But we perceive that the glorification of the
Church means the blessing of all. R5799:4
Draweth nigh -- From the standpoint that one year less lies between us
and the glorious consummation of our hopes and one year less intervenes
before the establishment of God's glorious Empire, we rejoice to see the
years fly swiftly by. R4103:1
The Lord did not say how nigh, so we must live day by day just as though
this was the last day on this side of the veil. R5569:4
Near at hand, even at the door. R5715:6
Luke 21:29
The fig tree -- Israel. D604; R384:2*

Note the wonderful adaptation of the fig tree as an illustration of
Israel's returning favor. It puts forth its fruit before its leaves
appear; and when the leaves appear, the fruit is ripe. It is a staple
article of food, and also possesses medicinal qualities. R384:2*
Luke 21:30
Shoot forth -- When the rich foliage of God's favor covers Israel, and
is manifest to all, she will be ripe and ready for the work of blessing,
feeding, and healing the nations, according to God's plan. R384:2*
Now being signally fulfilled. Not only are thousands of Israelites
returning to Palestine, but the Zionist movement has assumed vast
proportions to put into a practical shape the proposal for the
reorganization of a Jewish state in Palestine. D604
These buds will thrive, but will bear no perfect fruit before October
1914--the full end of Gentile Times. D604
Summer is now nigh -- There are unmistakable signs among the Jews as a
people today by which we recognize Christ's words and know that not only
the restoration of the Jews is at hand, but also that the Kingdom of God
is nigh. R127:4*
Luke 21:31
When ye see -- All about us we can see the foretold signs of our Lord's
second presence. OV425:3
Kingdom of God -- The Church is the Kingdom now, in the prospective
sense. R397:4
Mentioned in such an unequivocal manner, that none can doubt that the
Millennial Reign is referred to. R396:6
Luke 21:32
This generation -- Not gennema, race or posterity; but genea, which does
not mean race, but has the same significance as our English word
generation--people living contemporaneously. D603
A "generation" might be reckoned as equivalent to a century (practically
the present limit) or one hundred and twenty years, Moses' lifetime and
the Scripture limit. (Gen. 6:3) D604
The signs mentioned will occur within a generation-epoch in the close of
the age. D603
Some of the generation which saw the falling stars will continue to live
until God's Kingdom shall be fully established. D603; R1983:5
Perhaps from 1780, the date of the first sign, to 1880, when every item
predicted had begun to be fulfilled; perhaps 1878 to 1914, 36-1/2 years,
about the average of human life today. D604
Luke 21:33
Heaven and earth -- The present ecclesistical and social order. D602
Luke 21:34
Take heed -- The tendency of the world, the flesh and the devil is to
absorb our time, thought, interest and affections in worldly affairs,
eating, drinking, marrying, building, planting, business, pleasure,
sectarianism and cunningly devised fables. R2303:1
The present is the time for God's people to draw very near to the Lord, to
come under the shadow of the Almighty, to put their trust more and more in
him and to purge themselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit,
perfecting holiness in the reverence of the Lord. (2 Cor. 7:1) NS627:6
We would encourage all who have the hearing ear to zeal and faithfulness
in their consecration, that they may make their calling and their election
sure to a share in the Kingdom glories. NS790:4
Take time to commune with the Lord, feast upon his Word, partake of his
spirit. R566:2*
Motive for heavenly-mindedness. R298:4
Unto yourselves -- Christ and the apostles almost invariably speak to
the Church and of the world; hence the personal pronouns ye and you refer
to the Church, and they and them to the world. HG84:3
Your hearts -- It is possible for a man to have a great deal of worldly
care requiring his attention, and yet not have his heart much affected or
influenced by it, because his heart is not in it as much as his head.
R566:2*
It is the heart that is in danger. R566:2*
Be overcharged -- To overcome, we need the armor which God has provided.
We obtain it from the word of God, and it requires time and care to fit it
and learn to use it. We cannot, therefore, spare our valuable and needful
time to attend to worldly things, plans, and speculations; but only the
things needful. R378:1
The crowding upon us of more than we can possibly do is evidently the
enemy, and is intended to keep us from the most important of all work, the
study of God's Word. R566:4*
Some who could not be induced nor pressed into worldliness, he will keep
busy looking after the welfare of others, to the exclusion of their own
growth in the knowledge of the truth. R566:4*
Such as make an improper partnership of Christ, the world, and self. R35:3
We cannot spare our valuable time for worldly things, plans and
speculations. R378:1
As in the case of the Great Company class. R4078:5
With surfeiting -- These various dispositions: carelessness of life, the
overcharged or drunken condition as respects earthly affairs, the lack of
self-restraint in connubial relationships, are apt to go hand in hand with
a wrong spirit in the Church--a spirit of strife, contention, wilfulness.
R3181:6
And drunkenness -- Worldly revelries, time-killing pleasures. R3181:4
Intoxication with the spirit of the world as respects wealth, business,
dress, music, art. R3181:4
Cares of this life -- We find many who have been enlightened so busied
with a multitude of other things that they cannot attend to preparation
for the coming Kingdom. R565:6*
The brethren generally have their hours of labor fixed by the prevailing
business customs. If they should find business demanding all their time
and all their effort for any length of time, this is not the Lord's will.
R572:2*
Habits of close economy prompt many sisters to do things which might be
done by others long after the necessity of such economy is past. R572:4*
It is proper to be charged with the cares of life to the extent of our
necessities and responsibilities, but not to the extent of crowding out
spiritual interests and aspirations. R2129:3
Come upon you -- Greek, ephistemi, to overtake. B158
Unawares -- The people of the Lord, under his instruction, will not be
in darkness that that day shall overtake them as a thief. NS789:6
If a child of God, living in the day of the Lord, remain in ignorance as
to the fact, he must either be surfeited with the things of this life and
intoxicated with the spirit of the world, or else overcharged with the
cares of this life; in either case, indifferently neglecting to watch with
his lamp trimmed and burning. B23
Declaring that, at the time of our Lord's second coming, the world will be
far from converted to God. A90; OV222:4
The second coming of Christ will be as different from human expectation as
was his first advent. HG315:4
It will be as it was in Noah's days, the world will know not. (Matt.
24:37; Luke 22:26) R264:4
He leaves the matter in obscurity, because it will be better for us not to
know the exact time. R5256:3
Luke 21:35
As a snare -- And a thief. R2390:4

The present social order of Christendom is to stumble and be wrecked in a
time of anarchy, because the time has come for the establishment of God's
Kingdom, and because the world is not in the condition of heart to receive
it. R2390:1
All not thoroughly rooted and grounded in the truth will be carried away
by the false arguments of those whom Satan is now permitted to use as his
agents. R5652:1
On all them -- The world in general, especially the Christian world who,
having made a covenant with the Lord, are living contrary thereto, and
therefore are styled "wicked." R2390:4
Including the tares. R3405:3
The knowledge which the saints will have in the day of the Lord is
contrasted with the ignorance, on the part of the world, of the
significance and tendency of transpiring events. B22
Who don't take heed. A90; OV222:4
Such as give no heed to the "more sure word of prophecy" are not watching
and will not know. (2 Pet. 1:19-21) R2303:1
The Divine Revelation respecting the time of trouble is only to a portion
of the world--the Church. OV59:5
It is not intended that the prophetic knock should be heard by the world;
it is intended only for the virgin class, wise and foolish. R4185:4
The whole earth -- The world in general, especially the Christian world.
R2390:4; CR438:5
"But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you
as a thief." (1 Thess. 5:4) R4185:2, 2390:4
Luke 21:36
Watch -- Watch yourselves, and also the word of prophecy. B22

The injunction to watch implies not only some advantage in watching, but
also that the manner of the Lord's second advent might be so contrary to
the general expectation as to require some discernment on the part of the
watchers. R1796:5
We are to watch the signs of the times, so carefully delineated by our
Lord in the prophecy which precedes this exhortation to watchfulness.
R2303:1
The day will come as a thief in the night, stealthily. Those who are
asleep will not be aware that the day has come, and might therefore not be
expected to be in a waiting attitude. R5256:3
Present besetments, being of subtle character, are the more calculated to
delude and ensnare, so that if one allows himself to be for a moment off
his guard, the agencies of the Adversary will gain an advantage and use it
to trap the unwary one. R1319:2
We believe that the Lord leaves the matter in obscurity, because it will
be better for us as a whole not to know the exact time. R5256:3
The Lord's people should be keeping watch of the fact of his coming and of
the various incidents of the interim; not knowing how rapidly they might
culminate, that they might ever live in the attitude of expectancy and of
readiness for his presence. R2303:2
Not readiness in a literal ascension robe, but readiness in a figurative
ascension robe, namely, such a condition of heart and life as would be in
readiness to welcome the Lord and his scrutiny in our hearts and conduct.
R2303:2
Nothing is more helpful to wakefulness and energy in the Lord's service
than the thought of his coming, and the examination of the prophecies
which were given us with the very object of having us know something about
the time of his coming. R2303:2
Alas! professed Christians have generally forgotten to watch for his
appearing. They seem to have concluded that the watching will never be
rewarded. R1796:3
Be always watchful for the evidence of my parousia, because the time will
come when it will be very important to know it. B19, 163
So that when the due time comes you may be one of the wise ones. B19; D606
This watching will serve as an antidote for worldly influences. R2303:1;
B19
And pray always -- There is not a more practical doctrine than that of
the second advent. It is the motive for patient waiting (1 Thess. 1:10);
for divine hope (Titus 2:13); for moderation in all things (Phil. 4:5);
for prayer to be counted worthy (Luke 21:36); for long-suffering patience
(Jas. 5:8); for heavenly-mindedness (Luke 21:34); for perseverance in
spite of persecution (1 Pet. 1:7); for godliness and holy conversation (2
Pet. 3:11, 12); for earnest preaching (2 Tim. 4:1-3); for fighting the
good fight of faith (2Tim. 4:7, 8); for reverence and godly fear
(Heb. 7:26-28); for sobriety and watching unto prayer (1 Pet. 4:7).
R298:2,4*
That ye -- The faithful, sealed ones. C167
Accounted worthy -- By faithful and prompt obedience, getting out before
"winter." D578
That, knowing of his presence and the changes then due, you may be found
in harmony with the king, working wisely in his vineyard, that you and
your labor may be approved of him. R580:6
The wheat class; the truly consecrated children of God, separated from the
world. R409:2, 3405:3; C146
The Bride class. R2302:5, 265:1
Those who enter in before the door is shut. (Matt. 25:10) R1952:4
The "overcomers." (Rev. 3:21) R1963:4; D578
Only the faithful "Little Flock" will be worthy. R593:5, 2302:5, 772:2;
SM726:1
To escape -- Not necessarily by being taken away from the earth, but
possibly by being rendered fire-proof, as in the typical illustration of
the three Hebrews, who walked in the midst of the fiery furnace. B162
We may not be too certain which way he meant we should escape. There are
two ways: by avoidance of the trouble or by being kept from feeling its
poignancy, by grace sufficient to enable us to rejoice in tribulation.
R2975:5
Not by being taken from the scene of trouble, but by being supported,
strengthened and kept in the very midst of it, all by the Word of the
Lord. C228
While admitting that some might remain to the very end of the trouble, and
pass through it all, and yet thus escape, it is nevertheless clear, we
think, that all will be fully delivered before the severest features of
the trouble come. C229
While there are clear indications that some of the living members of the
body will witness the gathering of the storm and share in some of the
troubles it will bring, there are also indications that none of these will
pass entirely through it, nor even far into it. C228
By the resurrection change. HG458:5, 611:6; OV86:T; Q98:3
We understand that the escape is effected by their being "caught up to
meet the Lord in the air" (1 Thess. 4:17); yet that their taking will be
unseen by the world. R35:3
The faithful ones will be kept from the power of this great trial "because
thou didst keep the word of my endurance." (Rev. 3:10, Rotherham) R504:6*
These sons are not to be spared from the polishing processes necessary to
make them acceptable as sons. R2405:4
The Church will have a great many trials and persecutions, and perhaps a
great deal of suffering in the end of this age; but they will have all
passed beyond the veil before the anarchistic trouble will have come on
the world. Q217:1
From Babylon. R1648:6
By fleeing to the mountain, the Kingdom of the Lord, and being safe.
R1963:4*
While the "wheat" class may expect to escape the world's trouble, it will
have its own trouble before: for "judgment must begin with the house of
God." (1 Pet. 4:17) R3405:3
The completion of the Church will be while the world is still under the
blinding influence of Satan. CR341:3
"He delivered me from the strong enemy [death]." (2 Sam. 22:18) He takes
his Bride and delivers her from the strong enemy of the fleshly nature,
death, into the perfection of the new divine nature, like unto Christ's
glorious body. R265:1
As Aaron escaped the plagues, and assisted Moses in their execution as a
means to the salvation of Israel; so some now are to be accounted worthy
to escape the things coming, to sit with Christ, the prophet like Moses,
and have power over the nations to break them. R155:3*
The angels are holding the winds of violence until the full number of the
elect have been sealed and have made their calling and election sure. When
this is finished we may expect the trouble to come as a whirlwind,
suddenly. R1952:4
Those who have made the Most High their refuge need not fear the approach
of the time of trouble. "God is our refuge and strength, a very present
help in trouble." (Psa. 46:1) D45
"The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto
their cry." (Psa. 34:15) D68
Which the Great Company class will not escape. R4654:6, 772:2*, 593:5;
SM514:1, 726:1
This class, because overcharged, are therefore taken unawares (verse 34),
and as in a snare (verse 35); and shall not escape. R35:3
Some in each company may come through the very same experiences. To one it
is great tribulation, to the other it is but a light and easy yoke. R772:2*
While lukewarm and merely nominal Christians shall share it with the
world. R409:2
The world will go on as usual, and know not until the "harvest is past,
the summer ended" (Jer. 8:20), and they are not in the ark, not with the
Little Flock. R264:4
"I will spare them as a man that spareth his own son that serveth him."
(Mal. 3:17) R5574:2; C146
All these things -- The social upheaval and combustion, political
troubles, financial troubles, and also some great physical manifestations
of divine power in connection with the time of trouble. R5318:1
The great time of tribulation, and they are to escape the thousand years
of judgment or trial coming upon the world. R2405:4
The severity of the time of trouble. C229; R2674:5
The various forms of unbelief now rampant. C167
The destruction of the present order of things. D68, 481, 578
"Strong delusions." (2 Thess. 2:11) R1319:2
The travail upon great Babylon, the nominal church. R1648:6
That shall come -- It is evident that the coming of universal anarchy
after the harvest has nothing whatever to do with either the presence of
the Reaper or the setting up of his Kingdom. Indeed, the guidance and
overruling of that anarchy will be under the control of the glorified
Church--The Christ. R3405:6
Stand -- Approved, and received as the Bride of Christ. R4654:6
And not fall before the attacks of the enemy. R425:6; C167
While many on every hand are falling into error and infidelity. C228
We patiently wait for our gathering together unto Christ. R127:5*
Before the Son -- In the presence of the Son of Man. R593:5
Luke 22
Luke 22:1
The feast -- The feast of Passover lasted a week, and was one of the
most important celebrated under the Jewish arrangement, beginning on the
15th day of the first month, Jewish reckoning, but preceded on the 14th by
the killing of the lamb, and sprinkling of the blood on the doorposts of
the houses as a memorial of what took place in Egypt. R3363:3, 1182:6
It was not the intention of our Lord to commemorate the feast of Passover,
which began on the 15th of Nisan and lasted for an entire week, but merely
to give us a memorial of his death on the 14th of Nisan. R1942:6, 596:4
Drew nigh -- His arrival in Bethany was just a week before his
crucifixion. The following day at supper Mary anointed him. The next day
he rode on the ass into Jerusalem. The following day he visited the
temple, driving out the money-changers. The next day he gave his last
public discourse, in the Temple. On Wednesday, the Lord remained in
Bethany in retirement, and on Thursday he sent two of his disciples to
make ready the Passover. R3363:3
The Passover -- The Passover was the first feature of the Law given
Israel as a typical people. R839:1
The Lord provided for two great religious occasions, the one at the
beginning of the secular year and the other at the beginning of the
religious year. The Passover emphasized more particularly the passing over
of the first-born; the Day of Atonement more particularly pictures the
atonement for the sins of the whole world. R3749:2
The Passover season has always been one of special danger, special
besetment to the Lord's consecrated people. R3760:3
It seems peculiar that there should be greater liability of falling into
sin at one season than at another; but nevertheless, we have noticed for
several years the peculiar force of temptations at the time of the
Passover, every Spring. R3178:3
It was at Passover season that many followers said, "This is a hard
saying," and walked no more with him; that Judas bargained for the
betrayal of our Lord; that Peter, tempted to forget he was a disciple,
undertook to rebuke the Lord; that the twelve got into a dispute as to who
would be greatest; that our Lord himself was in an agonizing battle, and
with bloody sweat submitting his will to the will of God; that the eleven
all forsook the Lord and fled; that Peter was tempted to deny the Lord
with cursings; and that our Lord was tempted before Pilate. R3178:3
From our Lord's standpoint the date was settled for the people by the
decision of the Scribes. Whether they fixed an earlier or later date would
not have particularly mattered; the object was to have a uniform date and
to recognize the fourteenth day of the first month at even. So today, we
do not understand that any hair-splitting is necessary in the ascertaining
of the first day of the first month, Jewish time. R3750:6
Luke 22:3
Entered Satan -- Satan had been working with Judas previously. R4577:3
No doubt reasoning that since Jesus was about to die he might as well sell
the Lord and get what he could out of the transaction. R3878:6
If Judas had maintained an attitude of consecration to the Master, Satan
would never have had the opportunity. Q616:1
Into Judas -- When chosen an apostle, evidently a good man, at least so
far as outward appearance was concerned. His name, meaning "Praise," would
seem to indicate that his parents had been of a religious cast of mind.
R2779:2
Representing some who, for earthly advantage for themselves, are willing
to deliver other members of the Lord's body up to tribulation, adversity
and reproach. R3366:6
Luke 22:4
How he might betray -- Judas did not reach this depth of iniquity
suddenly, but rather the disposition had grown upon him during the three
years of his intercourse with the Master, when the reverse disposition
should have had control. R2779:2
Luke 22:5
To give him money -- From the meager mentionings of the Gospel records,
we may reasonably infer that the beginning of his downfall was the
harboring of a love for money. R2779:3, 2468:2
Some who have consecrated their lives to be the Lord's followers and have
been engaged in the ministry of truth, as Judas was there, are willing to
sell the Lord for a mess of pottage--for good things of this present life,
for a salary, for social position, for honor amongst men, for popularity
and titles. R2779:4
Luke 22:7
Day of unleavened bread -- The first day of unleavened bread was the
14th of Nisan. The Feast of Passover began on the 15th and lasted for
seven days. (Ex. 12:18-20) R1800:2
Pure, unfermented bread, representing our Lord's sinless flesh. R5870:5,
2772:3
Bread of truth. R5870:4
The passover -- The term Passover was frequently applied to the name of
a festival week, but we must not confound this with the frequent
references when the word feast is not used, which generally referred to
the lamb that was killed as the Passover. R3749:1
"Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us." (1 Cor. 5:7) R3749:3
The typical lamb was put to death on the 14th day of the first month, so
our Passover Lamb was put to death on the same day. R94:2
Luke 22:8
Prepare us -- In the sense of furnishing and preparing the lamb, the

unleavened bread, the bitter herbs and the fruit of the vine. R3363:6
The Memorial Supper was on the 14th day of Nisan after six o'clock on the
evening before Jesus was crucified. R3526:2, 2771:5, 1625:3, 1182:6
Luke 22:10
The house -- It has been surmised by some that the house was that of
Mark's mother, Mary, and that the upper room thus used was the same one in
which the apostles subsequently met and where the Pentecostal blessing was
poured out upon them. R3363:6
Luke 22:11
The Master saith -- Probably the man was a believer. R1800:3
Luke 22:12
A large upper room -- During the Passover week hospitality was

recognized as a duty in Jerusalem; hence the readiness with which the
Lord's request for a room was granted. R1800:3
Perhaps furnished by previous arrangement. R1800:3
Luke 22:14
When the hour was come -- There can be no doubt from the account that
our Lord and his disciples ate the Passover supper on the day preceding
the one on which the Jews in general ate it. R2771:5, 721:1
Our Lord and his disciples did not sit down to the Passover until
even--the beginning of the fourteenth day of Nisan. R3750:5, 3363:6
No man previously laid hands on him because "his hour was not yet come."
The precise time of this great event and had not only been typified for
centuries with careful precision as to the very day, but our Lord declares
it so with equal exactness. R3526:1
Luke 22:15
With desire -- Probably one reason was that he there designed breaking
the truth of its significance to them to the extent that they could
receive it. R839:3, 465:6
Eat this passover -- As a Jew, under the Law Covenant, it was the duty
of our Lord to eat first of the typical lamb. R1625:3, 839:1
Because the Passover lamb which they were to eat typified our Lord
himself. R2449:1, 5870:5, 5641:1
Commemorating the saving of the typical first-born from the typical
"prince of this world"--Pharaoh. R5641:4, 5870:2
Luke 22:16
Until it be fulfilled -- Doubtless he longed to have them understand

that it would begin to be fulfilled a little later on in that very day, by
the slaying of the real Lamb. R465:6
The Passover was fulfilled only so far as the slaying of the lamb; the
eating of its flesh has been going on all through the gospel dispensation;
and the Passover itself, which followed the eating of the flesh and
sprinkling of the blood, is not yet fulfilled; but is to be, in the
Kingdom of God. HG55:6
Reminding them of his declaration that he would go away to receive a
Kingdom, which they would share. R5871:5, 721:2
Luke 22:17
The cup -- It was Jesus' cup of which he drank. He gave it to his

disciples to finish. Thus symbolically we are invited to be partakers of
the sufferings of Christ. (2 Cor. 1:5-7) R4475:1 Representing shed blood.
R1101:4, 5870:5, 2772:6
All who would sit with him in his throne must drink of Christ's cup of
self-denial and self-sacrifice and be immersed into his death. R4591:4
The blood of sprinkling for the Church of the first-born. R5641:5
Divide it -- All who would be members of his body must drink of this
blood. R5341:3
Thus symbolically we were invited to be partakers of the sufferings of
Christ. R4475:1
Luke 22:18
Fruit of the vine -- The fruit of the vine was as important as the bread
in the memorial; but it is never mentioned in connection with the weekly
meetings for breaking of bread and for prayers. R1625:6
Raisin juice or grape juice may be used. R1101:5, 3751:5, 3526:6, 2773:4,
1626:4; Q486:4
The grapes must submit to the pressure that will extract all their
juices,must lose their identity as grapes, if they would become the
life-giving elixir for the world. R5871:3, 5341:3
Symbolizing our Savior's human life given for us; his soul poured out unto
death on our behalf (Isa. 53:12) R5871:2
Represents blood or life shed, given, yielded up, sacrificed. R5871:4,
3526:4, 2772:6
"Shed for many for the remission of sins." (Matt. 26:28) R3526:4, 2772:6
Wine, "the blood of grapes," symbolizes death, and also the spirit, the
effect being to cheer, refresh, enliven. R226:1
Until the kingdom -- When he will share the new wine--the joys, rights
and privileges of the divine nature. R721:2
The wine of our feast is but typical of the joys of the Kingdom. R94:6
As usual, our Lord had something to say about the Kingdom. It seems to
have been associated in his every discourse. R2773:1
Shall come -- Just what our Lord meant is difficult to positively
determine, but it seems not inconsistent to understand him to mean that as
a result of the trials and sufferings symbolized, there will be a
jubilation in the Kingdom. R2773:1
Luke 22:19
He took bread -- The Lord's Supper was instituted as a substitute for

the Passover. R3750:4, 466:1
They had their usual Passover supper of roast lamb; and afterwards our
Lord introduced what we familiarly term "The Lord's Supper"--a new
symbolization of the antitypical Passover. SM563:2
Our Lord instituted the Memorial supper, the observance of the first day
of the week and baptism, not by command, but by example. R1942:3
Probably it was near midnight when, after the Passover had been eaten, our
Lord instituted the new memorial of his own death, the Lord's Supper,
substituting it for the Passover supper of the Law. R2771:3
Instead of the lamb would be the unleavened bread, representing our Lord's
flesh. SM563:3
The design of the Master was to call their minds from the typical lamb to
himself, the antitype, and to show them that it would be no longer proper
to observe a feature of the Law which he was about to fulfil. R839:4, 466:1
The bread is to be eaten by all, the wine may only be partaken of by a
few. R1014:5
If we are Christ's, we are part of the same loaf; to be broken as he was;
to die as he did, to the flesh, crucifying the flesh. R94:5
It is one loaf, though made from many grains. The grains cannot retain
their individuality and their life if they would become bread for the
world. R5341:3
Unleavened bread. R1943:2
Leaven is corruption. So, then, this symbol declares that Jesus was free
from sin, a lamb without spot or blemish. R840:3, 466:5
The shape, at least, resembled more particularly what we would call
crackers. R3364:4
If not available, soda crackers or water crackers are an unleavened bread,
and will serve the purpose. R1943:4, 1626:2
"Holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners." (Heb. 7:26) R4591:2,
2772:3, 1101:4
Representing our Lord's perfect humanity. R1101:4, 5870:6, 4591:2, 2772:2,
1800:6; F464
The eating of that unleavened bread represented their appropriating to
themselves of the merit of Christ's sacrifice--their justification by
faith. SM563:3; R5871:1, 3526:4, 2772:3
"I am the bread of life." (John 6:35) R2772:3, 5870:6
And brake it -- The bread must be broken to be appropriated. So, it was
necessary that our Lord be broken in death ere we could appropriate his
merit and enjoy everlasting life. R3526:4
He was the only one at that time who could break the loaf. Today, as the
unleavened bread of the Memorial season is passed to each of us, and as
each takes a portion of it, he breaks it for himself. R5341:5
Not only was the breaking of Jesus' body to provide bread of life, but it
also opened the narrow way to life. R840:2, 466:5
Not to be confused with the feasts "to break bread" (Acts 2:42,46; 20:7).
These first-day-of-the-week gatherings were love-feasts, and never
intended to take the place of or in any sense represent our Lord's
Memorial Supper. R2771:4, 1014:1, 839:6, 466:3
The first day of the week would be most inappropriate. Instead of being
set apart to commemorate Jesus' death, it was to them a day of rejoicing,
reminding them of the fact that the Lord is risen indeed. R839:6, 466:3
When we break this bread together, we not only symbolize our Lord's broken
body, but also our own breaking or dying as members of the Church.
R4622:5, 4591:5
Gave unto them -- God gives you the best nourishment, although not
always the sweetest to the taste. R721:5
This is my body -- "This" represented the antitypical Lamb, "the Lamb of
God, which taketh away the sin of the world." (John 1:29) R2771:6
The bread and the wine represented his body and his blood. R3364:4, 2772:2
It was not his pre-human existence as a spirit being that was sacrificed.
R2772:3
Man is of human or flesh nature; hence if the spiritual Son of God would
give to dying men the bread of life, it must be flesh, full of life-giving
nutriment. R1014:3
Does not prove that the body is in the bread. The whole matter is quickly
settled when we remember that our Lord had not yet died when he said these
words. R3526:4
The loaf represents primarily the Lord Jesus' body. In a large sense, it
includes all the body of Christ. Thus, the breaking of the loaf, the
breaking of the body, has continued for more than eighteen centuries.
R5341:5
The secondary and deeper significance of the loaf and the cup: "The cup of
blessing which we bless, is it not the participation of the blood of
Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the participation of the body
of Christ?" (1 Cor. 10:16,17) R2772:5
The Roman Catholic doctrine of the Mass falsely claims that the bread is
changed into the actual flesh of Jesus, which the priest breaks as a fresh
sacrifice. R3526:3, 3879:5, 2771:2, 1100:4
Symbolically represents our partaking of the fleshly perfection of the man
Jesus, not actually, but by faith. R4591:3
Which is given -- We cannot eat anything that is alive, nor would
anything that dieth of itself (by disease) be fit for food. There was no
way to give us this bread of life except by the sacrifice of the man
Christ Jesus. R1014:6
This do -- Not out of fear, constraint, or law, but in grateful
remembrance of our ransom. R1183:1
And do it intelligently. R1016:5
He invites all of his followers to eat of it. We partake of his flesh when
we appropriate to ourselves the blessings, mercy and grace secured by the
breaking of his body--the benefits of his sacrifice, securing to us the
forgiveness of sins and reconciliation with the Father. R3364:5
The eating of that unleavened bread represented their appropriating to
themselves of the merit of Christ's sacrifice--their justification. SM563:3
The Lord's Supper and Baptism are the only injunctions of a symbolic
character commanded us, and they are new ones. F228; R1527:1
Assemble together, even if there be but two or three of like precious
faith. Even the solitary ones may break the bread and partake of the wine,
in heart communion with the Lord and with the scattered fellow members of
the one body. R1014:1
Commemorate the death of the "Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the
world." (John 1:29) R1100:3, 5869:6, 1013:3
Annually, on its anniversary. R1100:3, 3961:3, 1625:3, 803:1, 721:4
As reckoned by the Jews, the apostles and the early Church. R1100:5,
2771:1, 1625:3
In remembrance -- Our Lord's Supper was evidently intended to be a
reminder of his death and of our covenant as members of his body to have
fellowship in his sufferings. R2771:5T
How often the old covenant was to be celebrated is plainly stated in Exod.
13:10, "Thou shalt therefore keep this ordinance in his season, from year
to year," and, as he has not altered the time, I dare not. R803:2
Protestants generally observe the celebration, the Memorial, not upon its
anniversary but as irrespective of it, as though they had no knowledge of
the relationship between the typical Passover and the antitypical day
which the Lord enjoined upon us to celebrate. R3750:2, 1014:3
The Lord's Supper was instituted as the antitype of the Jewish Passover,
the 14th day of the first month. Subsequently it was celebrated on the
nearest Friday and his resurrection on Sunday--Good Friday and Easter
Sunday. Younger Christian denominations, seeking differences with
Catholicism, skipped the Jewish type and began weekly, monthly or
quarterly celebrations. R2771:1, 1943:1, 1625:6
We do not quarrel with any who prefer to commemorate more frequently,
neither do we regard it as a binding or compulsory observance. R325:2
Seeing the Memorial celebrates the antitype of the killing of the Passover
Lamb, we can see that it is properly celebrated on its anniversary--not
monthly, quarterly, weekly nor daily, but yearly. R1943:1, 1625:3, 1014:2,
839:5, 721:2, 596:1, 325:2
The Lord's Supper is a reminder of his death, as the Passover was a type of
it. Jesus fulfilled the latter and instituted the former in the same night
in which he was betrayed. R596:1
Of me -- And no longer in remembrance of the typical lamb and the
typical passing over of the typical first-born of typical Israel. R3525:6
He did not say, This do in remembrance of yourselves--in remembrance of
your own share in the sacrifice. R5341:6
Remember him as the slain Lamb. R3879:5 No longer in remembrance of the
typical lamb and the typical deliverance from Egypt. R1100:3, 4592:6,
3961:1, 839:4, 721:2
It would be no longer proper to observe a feature of the Law which he was
about to fulfill. R466:1
Luke 22:20
The cup -- A new feature added by our Lord. SM563:4

His act of handing the cup to the disciples, and asking them to drink of
it, was an invitation to them to become partakers of his sufferings. R840:4
For "fruit of the vine" we prefer unfermented grape juice or raisin juice
rather than wine, because if the liquor habit has a hold upon any one we
would avoid the temptation to such. R1943:2
Representing the crushing of the grapes, the blood of the grapes--the
Master's blood, his life poured out, sacrificed, and their lives with him.
R4622:5, 5871:4, 4331:3, 3880:3, SM564:T
Nowhere is this cup described as wine, though it may have been. R2772:6
Like the bread, our partaking of it means our appropriation of the
benefits of his sacrifice--our justification. R1800:6
It also memorializes the consecration to death of all the members of the
Body of Christ. R4980:5, 4563:4
After supper -- How appropriate that the giving of the wine was after
the eating of the bread. Only those who are justified are invited to
crucify their justified humanity. R1015:6
Not represented by the type, the Passover supper, but the symbol of joy
and life. R94:5
After the Passover supper Jesus instituted the Memorial Supper, a new
matter. R3879:4
A new Memorial upon the old foundation. R5870:5
This cup -- All who accept the invitation to drink of his blood thereby
pledge their lives in the same service in which he gave his life. This
thought is entirely additional to anything in the Jewish Passover type.
There is no intimation that any of the household were to partake of the
blood of the slain lamb. SM564:1
It is one cup, though it contains the juice of many grapes. The grapes
cannot maintain themselves as grapes if they would constitute the
life-giving spirit. R5341:3
Of the new testament -- The New Covenant is the one that is mentioned
throughout the Old Testament, superseding the Law Covenant. R3364:5
The Keturah Covenant, or New Covenant, which is not yet in existence.
R4367:4, 4331:3
As soon as the last member of the Body of Christ shall have died, the New
Covenant with Israel will be sealed. R4453:3
We are invited to share his cup, to share the sealing, and to share the
dispensing of the New Covenant blessings to Israel and the world. R4429:4
A covenant of mercy. R2859:3
The New Covenant cannot become operative until the cup of the Lord's
sufferings which are left behind has been fully drained by the members of
his Body. R4310:2,3, 5542:6; NS297:5
Typified by the Law Covenant instituted by Moses, to be instituted by the
greater Prophet, Christ. R2859:2
A new and better covenant, by a new and greater Mediator, The Christ.
R2859:1
In my blood -- Instituted by reason of his blood. R1728:1
Both the Abrahamic Covenant and the New Covenant were secured, made sure,
with his own precious blood. B69
The broken bread taught a part of the lesson; the cup taught the remainder
of it. We not only need nourishment to come back to God and his favor, but
we need the precious blood as our redemption price. R3526:5
It will continue to represent my blood with you, a reminder of my death
and of the covenant which was thus sealed between God and sinners by
myself as the great Mediator between God and man. R3364:5
Jesus' blood is the only one that could be meant. The cup represented our
Lord's sufferings. He gave it to his disciples. R4475:1
Which seals, makes binding and obligatory, ratifies, the New Covenant.
R2859:1, 4331:3; CR59:3
The blood of our Lord and the blood of his body is all one blood. It is
one Priest of many members. It is one atonement for all--for the sins of
the whole world. The blood represents not only the death of Christ, but
also the death of all the members of his body, to whom merit is imputed.
R5342:4
The Scriptures say that the life is in the blood. In harmony with that
statement, the Jews were bidden to always refrain from eating the blood.
The life principle that he gave to man seems to reside in the blood. As
long as the blood is passing through the organs of circulation, there is
life; but when the blood is shed, the being dies. R5341:6
No Israelite was allowed to eat blood. This was symbolic of how all eat
the flesh of the Son of man, but all are not to drink or partake of his
death. R1015:6
His right to the earthly life, by his obedience to the Law, is the merit
which becomes the blood of the New (Law) Covenant, the basis of
reconciliation between God and Israel. CR59:3
Which is shed -- The fruit of the vine symbolized our Lord's life given
for us--his human life, his being, his soul, poured out unto death on our
behalf. R2772:4
Plainly presenting Christ's death as the means through which he gained
ability to benefit many. R1335:6*
The blood, symbolized by the wine, represents death. The blood is the life
of anything; and when it is shed, or taken from it, it implies the death
of the creature. R1015:6, 840:4, 466:6
Many who trust in the precious blood have never philosophized on the
subject sufficiently to see that blood shed always represents death, a
life given up. R1337:4
By partaking of it intelligently we pledge our lives even unto death in
the service of our Lord and Redeemer. R1015:6
If we, as his disciples, lay down our life for the brethren, we are doing
what Jesus did. This cup, then, represents the full renunciation of
earthly life and of all claims thereto. R5342:1
Whoever intelligently partakes of the Memorial Supper thereby indicates
two things: (1) His faith in Jesus as the Passover Lamb, and (2) his
membership in the body of Christ. SM564:2
Only those who both eat his flesh (appropriate his merits--justification)
and drink his blood (share with him in his sacrifice) dwell in him as
members of the one body. The balance of mankind, by eating (appropriating)
the rights of the man Christ Jesus, obtain a dependent life. R1016:1
It was the giving up of Christ's life that paid the ransom. R1335:3*
We all need the blood of sprinkling, not upon our houses, but upon our
hearts. R5870:4
Luke 22:21
The hand of him -- John tells us that our Lord was troubled in spirit,
manifested emotion, at the time he said this. R2772:1
It was a cause for great sorrow that it should be one who had been a bosom
friend and disciple. R3364:3
That betrayeth me -- It really made no difference to the Lord, so far as
his intention and consecration were concerned, whether he was apprehended
by the rulers without any betrayal or whether the betrayal were by a
comparative stranger or by a disciple. R3364:2
An illustration of the hopelessness of a soul willingly submitted to the
power of Satan. R1800:6
Judas' coolness manifested his hardness of heart and depth of hypocrisy.
R1800:6
With me on the table -- The Memorial is a gathering of professedly
consecrated believers in the Redeemer; but if others come in making such
profession reject them not; remember that Judas met with the Lord and the
other eleven. R1626:2
Despite the custom that to receive another's hospitality is, especially in
the East, a pledge of friendship. R3879:3
Luke 22:23
Began to inquire -- They had the spirit of self-examination; a humble,

loving spirit. R1800:6
Luke 22:24
A strife -- Only recorded in Luke, though also implied in John 13. We

are not to suppose that the apostles were actuated wholly by ambition and
selfishness. We may well suppose that the strife was for position of
nearness to the Master because of their love for him. R3363:6, 2449:3
The strife probably began when they were taking their places at the table,
each desiring to be nearest to the Lord, and so manifesting somewhat of a
selfish spirit. R1800:3
Colporteurs and all public representatives of the truth are often subjects
of special temptations. R1537:1
Possibly respecting which of them should perform the menial service of
feet-washing. R2449:3
The discussion seems to have originated with Peter, because a pointed
portion of the answer was addressed specially to him. R1987:2
Which of them -- Should the temptation ever come to show wisdom by
magnifying a minor difference between yourself and another, reject the
thought as a temptation from the devil, and do the very reverse--minimize
differences. R1537:4
The greatest -- To aspire to advancement for self-glory is contrary to
the spirit of God's plan, which is a love that places a neighbor on an
equality with self, and which only desires advancement for the purpose of
increased ability to serve others. R875:4*
Even a very little prominence may become a dangerous snare unless it be
coupled with great humility. R1987:3
Not only a warning to the individual seeking preferment in the Church, but
also an instruction to the Church to accept as its honored servants only
such as he describes. R875:4*
They had willingly left business prospects and endured the scorn of their
fellows that they might become joint-heirs with Christ in his Kingdom. The
Master had invariably encouraged these hopes and ambitions. His reproof
was merely against their strife as to which should be greatest. R1415:3
Luke 22:25
Exercise lordship -- The disposition of the world is toward tyranny on

the one hand, and servility on the other; the one class becoming arrogant
and self-assertive, and the other dependent and truckling, both of which
are ignoble traits. R1987:3
Luke 22:26
Ye shall not be so -- Ye shall not cultivate in yourselves a spirit of

arrogant pride by seeking to lord it over others; nor shall ye cultivate
in others a spirit of truckling servility, unworthy of noble manhood.
R1987:3
But -- On the other hand, cultivate in yourselves the spirit of humility
and loving service. R1987:3
He that is greatest -- He that has superior ability of one kind or
another. R1987:5 Let him think soberly of himself, realizing how far short
he is of actual perfection. R1987:5
The younger -- Very meek and modest. R1987:5
Is chief -- By qualifications and providential circumstances. R1987:5
Selfish aspirations have been a stumbling stone to very many of God's
children. R875:4*
"Whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant." (Matt.
20:27) R1987:5
Luke 22:28
In my temptations -- If we endure the temptations that befall us, we

shall be able to identify ourselves with the character of the holy
brethren. R811:1*
Luke 22:29
I appoint unto you -- The present Gospel age is merely for the selection
and education of those whom God purposes to use as his ministers in the
next age, the Millennium. R2490:2
A kingdom -- While the words of warning were solemnly given, the Lord
did not forget to give them also words of encouragement, pointing them to
the glory to follow the present scenes of suffering and humiliation.
R1988:1
Our Lord Jesus, in his talks with his followers, strengthened and
encouraged their expectations of a coming Kingdom. A274
Appointed unto me -- The exaltation of our Lord Jesus Christ to glory
and honor and power and dominion does not imply that the Heavenly Father
abdicates the throne of heaven in his favor; nor that they are one, for
both are recognized. E38
For Christ to have a Kingdom appointed to him, as Luke records the
conversation; and for him to sit on the throne of his glory, as Matthew
records it (Matt. 19:28), appear to indicate one and the same rank.
R1282:6*
Christ did not claim to be "equal in power." E38
Luke 22:30
Sit -- Be permanently established. R1283:5*

Thrones -- Symbol of sacerdotal or regal authority. R1283:1*
Judging -- Greek, krino, the word is full of the thought of trial, or
testing, or criticism; but it does not imply finality of decision. R2430:3
Krino is used in referring to the judgment, trial, of the Millennial age
when the Church, Head and Body, will be the judges. R2426:4
Ruling. A274
"The saints shall judge the world." (1 Cor. 6:2) R2430:1
Luke 22:31
Simon, Simon -- Indicating that the discussion above originated with

Peter. R1987:2
It was the most trying time for his apostles, and particularly for Judas
and Peter. Both were prominent--one as treasurer and purchasing agent; the
other as a specially bold champion for the Lord's cause. R3759:3; C189
Three were tempted, varied results. Our Lord's course was the proper one,
humility, fear, an appreciation of the trials leading to watchfulness and
prayer. Peter, a good man of strong character, realized not his danger,
and hence was not prepared for the arts of Satan. A fearful time for
Judas, whose heart was not right. He fell quickly into the snare of the
adversary. R3759:6
Satan -- One of the frequent references by our Lord, along with a larger
number by the apostles, referring to a personal devil. R3165:6
Whose very existence is now being denied by many. R3165:6
Hath desired to have you -- This was no time for considering questions
of superiority and self-exaltation; it was a time for sober thought and
humble watchfulness and prayer. R1987:6
Sift you as wheat -- Experience has repeatedly proved that at this
season every year God permits Satan to specially sift the wheat. R1793:4
We are in the harvest time; the separation of the wheat from the tares is
due, and more than this, the separation of the chaff from the wheat is
also due--a sifting process. R3760:5
Separate you from your loyalty to Christ and discourage you from
discipleship. R4712:4
This sifting took place shortly after the casting off of nominal fleshly
Israel, foreshadowing the testing of the Sanctuary class now. C189
In the Spring of 1878, the parallel time, the sifting began which has
continued ever since, and must test every one who receives the light of
Siftings are permitted because only those who can standing siftings,
trials and tests are fit for the Kingdom. R5563:6
Luke 22:32
I have prayed for thee -- For all of the Peter class the Lord is the
Head, the Representative, the Advocate before the Father. R3760:4
Because of the difference in the hearts of Peter and Judas, our Lord could
properly be the Advocate of the one before the Father, but not the
Advocate of the other. R4908:1; 3760:2
Thy faith fail not -- Under the coming trial. R1987:6
Peter's courage was really his weak point. R5563:1, 5202:2
When thou art converted -- From this disposition to a sober humility.
R1987:6
Although both Peter and Judas repented, the one was accepted back to
divine favor, the other was not. R3760:2
Strengthen -- The more we resist temptation the stronger characters we
will become. R5331:6
Luke 22:33
I am ready -- Full of loving loyalty to the Lord. R1987:6

He did not know how much weakness was in him. When the Lord was watching
and praying that momentous night, Peter was one of the first to fall
asleep. Afterward he was the very one to deny the Lord, and with cursing.
R5202:1
Luke 22:34
Peter -- His zeal and energy made him a leading apostle. R1987:2
A good man of strong character, loyal and true, but bewildered and
off-guard. R3759:6, 4907:5
The Peter class, although loyal of heart, do those things they do not wish
to do, or leave undone what they really desire to do, because of weakness
of their flesh and failure to lay hold on promised help. R3760:1
Luke 22:35
Without purse -- To a covenant people whose duty it was to receive and

entertain the messengers of the Lord, and whose receiving or rejecting of
them would be a test of their fidelity to God as his covenant people.
R1988:2
To show the Lord's full ability to care for them under all circumstances
and conditions. R2500:2
Nothing -- For the common people heard them gladly, and were greatly
moved by their teachings and their works. R1988:4
Luke 22:36
But now -- A change from the instructions in Matt. 10:10 which was given
to the twelve apostles sent forth to announce the Kingdom. That was not a
general instruction for all time, but particular to the occasion. That was
not applicable to this present time. R2500:2
Let him take it -- And thus, being independent of the people, show them
that self-denying zeal for God which would gladly espouse an unpopular
cause with no hope of earthly gain. R1988:4
To clearly manifest that when he was betrayed he gave himself up of his
own free will, not being without defense. R3367:4, 5922:1, 2778:6, 2468:5
Luke 22:37
Be accomplished -- The prophecies concerning me are about to be

fulfilled in my crucifixion. R1988:4
Luke 22:38
Two swords -- Necessary to show that his capture was not made by force,
but that he voluntarily permitted himself to be taken and crucified.
R5922:1, 2468:5, 1988:5
It is enough -- They were intended merely for a demonstration, and not
for a defence. R5922:4
Our Lord had no thought of having his disciples war a carnal warfare on
his behalf. R2468:4
Luke 22:39
He came out -- Probably for two reasons: First, realizing he would be

arrested, he did not wish to bring trouble on the friend who had permitted
the use of the upper room; Second, he desired the still quiet of midnight,
out upon the hillside, where he could be alone with God. R2773:6
As he was wont -- Knowing the plot beforehand, he deliberately went to
the place where they would seek him. R1988:5
Mount of Olives -- To an orchard there known as Gethsemane, signifying
"oil-press place." R2773:3, 3885:2
Followed him -- Because he loved them, and knew that they loved him, he
permitted them to accompany him to the place of prayer, that they might
watch and pray with him. R1801:2
Luke 22:40
At the place -- The Garden of Gethsemane, not a wild woods nor a public
garden, but an olive orchard under the control of Jesus' friends, about
half a mile from the wall of Jerusalem. R3885:2, 2773:6
Enter not into temptation -- The most trying time of our Lord's earthly
experience, and also for the apostles, especially Judas and Peter. R3759:3
The only safe way is to be prepared because your Adversary, the devil, is
seeking whom he may devour. He knows your weak points, and is ready to
take advantage of them. R3179:1
Some will make light of the warning and expose themselves to danger;
others will hearken to the warning of the Master's voice, and to them it
will be the power of God unto their preservation. R3761:4
Luke 22:41
Withdrawn from them -- Leaving eight of the disciples there, as an outer

guard, so to speak. R2773:6, 2467:2, 1801:2
He took with him Peter, James and John--Peter, the bold and impulsive;
James and John, the so-called "sons of thunder"--the three most
courageous, most zealous, most earnest of his disciples. R2774:1
"He trod the winepress alone, of the people there was none with him."
(Isa. 63:3) In his very saddest hour, when he most needed comfort and
consolation, it was not possible for even the closest and dearest of his
earthly friends to enter into his feelings or sympathize with him. How
different with us! R3886:4, 2467:2
If the Lord needed to seek retirement from the busy scenes of his active
life to be alone with God, surely we need to do so. R1802:1
Kneeled down -- Prostrating himself upon his knees, with his face to the
earth. R2774:1
And prayed -- We should follow the example of our Lord, and seek the
Father's face, anxious to know whether or not everything is all right with
him, anxious for some fresh assurance that it will be well with us. R2774:6
Our Lord followed the direction he gave to the disciples: he watched, he
prayed, he got a blessing, he was strengthened, and came off victor. They
did not watch and did not pray, failing to realize the necessities of the
occasion, and as a result we find them scattered and bewildered. R2775:2
He found it needful to go to the Father for help to do his will. R146:6
That he might find grace to help in his hour of need. R1801:1, 2773:6
Luke 22:42
Father -- No one can thoughtfully read this lesson of our Lord's dark
hour in Gethsemane without feeling that there is something thoroughly
incorrect in the idea that our Lord Jesus was his own heavenly Father,
Jehovah. R2773:3
The oneness existing between the Father and the Son is not a oneness of
person, but of sentiment and will. R1904:4
If it be possible -- Apparently our Lord did not see any absolute
necessity for his suffering more than the sinner suffered in order to pay
man's ransom price. R2467:4; SM647:1
The death of the cross was not necessary as our ransom price. The Father
required this extreme obedience as a test, and the loyalty of our dear
Redeemer was fully attested. R2467:5
Remove this cup -- We are not to assume that he meant to escape dying.
The cup was the shame and ignominy of arrest as a law-breaker, a public
trial and conviction, and subsequent crucifixion as a malefactor. R2467:4
Our Lord's query was: Could he stand this? or would it be possible for the
Father to deviate to that extent without interfering with the divine plan
for the great work being accomplished? R3886:2
Our Lord was exceeding fearful of himself, fearful lest he should make a
misstep and thus spoil the entire plan of God which he had so obediently
undertaken and thus far so loyally performed. R3886:2
His thought apparently: "I shall be esteemed of all my countrymen as
forsaken of God, and as accursed of him; I shall die as a blasphemer;
whereas my every sentiment is, and has always been, fealty, loyalty to the
Father." This, we believe, was the "cup." R2775:2
We are to remember that he does not pour into our cup of sorrow and trial
any bitter experiences that are not needful to us and that will not
subsequently work out for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of
glory (2 Cor. 4:17). R2469:1
Not my will -- Not my human will. R146:6; T54
I claim no rights; I attempt neither to follow my own ideas nor to
exercise my own will. SM647:1
The nearer a person is to perfection, the stronger is his will and the
more difficult to crucify. The more confident any one is that his will is
good and for good and blessing to others, the more difficult it is to see
good reasons for surrendering it. SM647:1
In such a condition prayers are always answered; but in such a condition
the prayers would be very modest; more a thanksgiving for our blessings.
R798:2
An important principle, especially in those cases where we may, upon
request, pray for the recovery of the afflicted or imbecile not of the
consecrated little flock. R5204:3, 798:5
An expression of confidence and trust; indicating the necessary
submission. R798:2, 3886:2
A valuable lesson for us to learn, of patience and waiting upon the Lord
to direct in his own time and way. PD40/50
We are to give up our will in order that his will may be done. R5624:3
But thine -- Father--the divine will. T54
I leave all to thy wisdom. SM647:1
Always this disposition of reverence for the Father, and of full trust and
confidence in the divine wisdom, love, justice and power. R5846:6
So long as he thought there was a possibility of the elimination of the
shame feature, he was nervously anxious to have it so; but as soon as he
realized this was not the Father's will, his heart instantly responded.
R2467:5
Though tempted in all points like as we (his brethren) are, he ignored his
own will and all suggestions from others contrary to God's plan, and
obeyed God implicitly. Therein lay the secret of his success. R1125:5
"If My Word abide in you" (John 15:7)--we must search the Scriptures to
know the will of the Lord; to know what he has promised and what he has
not promised; to know what to ask and what not to ask. R4983:3
"I came. . .not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me."
(John 6:38) R5846:6
We should not merely submit to his will, but delight to do his will at any
cost. R5303:6
Be done -- In and to this earthen vessel consecrated to death. T54
In seasons of heavy trial, if we hold on to the arm of Jehovah, his grace
will always be sufficient. R1802:4
Luke 22:43
And there appeared -- While some old manuscripts omit verses 43 and 44,
others do not. In the footnotes of the Tischendorf Testament, "S2" omits
these verses. The "S" represents the Sinaitic manuscript, but the "2"
represents a secondary or altered reading of that manuscript. The Sinaitic
manuscript originally contained these verses, but some later hand
obliterated them, thus making this manuscript to concur with the Vatican
and Alexandrian. We are inclined to think these verses genuine. R3040:2,
146:6
An angel -- We know not what message that angel brought, nor is it
necessary that we should. It is sufficient for us to know that the Father
answered the prayer. We can surmise that the Father's assurance through
the angel was that he had the divine favor. R3886:3, 2774:5
This ministry may have consisted in informing him of the Father's will in
respect to what things he should suffer, and how they were to be expected.
R2468:4
Although there will not come to us the same kind of heavenly messenger,
nevertheless a heavenly messenger of another kind shall surely be sent, it
may be in the person of a fellow disciple, or it may be one of the
apostles themselves, through the many gracious words of inspiration.
R2775:4
The Lord is our angel, who speaks to us the Father's message, telling us
that if we abide in his love all will be right in the end, and that he is
able and willing to bring us off conquerors, yea, more than conquerors.
R3887:1
We cannot doubt that in the hours of deep affliction, comfort and strength
are often experienced, coming from the invisible, though not expected, and
the source not fully acknowledged. R75:1*
Has not God commissioned his angels also to bear up the "feet" of the Body
of Christ, lest some overwhelming trial prove too much for them? (Psa.
91:11,12) R1801:6
Looking back when in glory, we may see how much more fully they served us
than we realized. R75:1*
There is to be a restoration of olden-time communication between heaven
and earth, of which Spiritism is Satan's counterfeit. R1156:5
Strengthening him -- Probably by refreshing his mind with the precious
promises and prophetic pictures of the coming glory. R1801:5
Decision respecting the Father's will immediately brought strength. R2467:5
If the Master himself needed strengthening, surely we also need it; and if
he received it in response to supplications, it is an intimation to us of
the way in which God is pleased to bestow the full assurance of faith.
R2775:3
With reinforced courage, not a courage born of stoical indifference to
pain, shame and loss, but a courage born of faith. R1801:5
From that moment onward we find him the coolest and calmest of the notable
figures brought to our attention. When approached by Judas and his band,
when before Caiaphas and Pilate, when crucified, he was the most calm and
self-possessed of all. R2774:5, 1801:6
With the assurance that he had fulfilled his part--rendered full obedience
to the Father's will. R5331:4, 5585:6
That he had the Father's approval and that he would be resurrected.
R4804:5, 5585:6
That all the gracious promises of glory, honor and immortality were his.
R4804:6
The Father gives us peace and strength through his assurance in his Word.
R3886:3
Prayers for help in trouble may be answered by removal of the cause, or by
strength to overcome the disturbance. R3886:3
Luke 22:44
Being in an agony -- A contest, a struggle. The language used in the

Greek implies a struggle of increasing force and severity. R2774:1
While with his disciples he had sought to be cheerful; but now his
thoughts turned inward upon himself and his relationship to the Father;
and outward upon the public shame, the contemptuous mockery and the public
execution. R3885:3
Our Lord, untainted, unblemished by sin, undegraded, undulled by dying
processes, was much more susceptible to the pains and sorrows of the hour
than others of the fallen race could be. The finer the sentiments and
characteristics, the greater the pain. R3885:3
Matthew: "sorrowful even unto death," a sorrow which almost crushed out
his very life; Mark: "sore amazed," as though the sorrow had come upon him
unexpectedly, as though he were bewildered. R2774:1
Because of the coming shame of trial, conviction and execution as a
blasphemer and seditionist, and oppressed with the fear that in some
manner he might have failed of perfection, and that his death might mean
extinction. R3886:1,2, 3885:3
Prayed more earnestly -- "He offered up strong cryings and tears unto
him that was able to save him from [out of] death." (Heb. 5:7) R3885:6
As soon as he had the Father's assurance that he had not violated any
conditions, and that he would not go into eternal death, he was content to
suffer any other experience that might come to him. R5585:6
Drops of blood -- In the agony of Gethsemane the heart and the blood
vessels had been affected. The palpitation of the heart had been so
intense as to cause a blood sweat--a phenomenon rare, but not unknown,
produced by intense mental excitement. SM642:1; R1801:2
This bloody sweat is not unknown to physicians today, although very rare.
It marks an extreme tension of feeling, sorrow nigh unto death. R2774:1
The chief reason why our Lord sorrowed on this occasion, so that his
agony, becoming very intense, produced a bloody sweat, was his realization
of his own situation in relationship to God and the covenant under which
he had made his sacrifice. R3885:5
The very thought of extinction would bring anguish. This thought seems not
to have come to our Lord with the same force previously. He now saw
himself about to suffer according to the Law as an evil-doer, and the
question naturally arose, was he entirely blameless, would the heavenly
judge thoroughly acquit him whom so many were disposed to condemn? R2774:5
Infidelity has suggested that this account of our Redeemer's sorrow
attests his weakness. Many martyrs faced death with boldness. There is a
dullness and numbness connected with fallen manhood that can regard pain
and death with indifference. We are glad that Jesus was not one of those
cold, stoical icebergs, but that he was full of warm, tender feelings and
is thus able to sympathize with the most tender, delicate and refined,
more than any other human being. R2774:2, 1801:2
A cold, stoical indifference to the loss of life, based upon knowledge
that it could last but a short time longer anyway, is very different from
the clear knowledge our Lord had and the realization that the life he was
about to lay down was not forfeited through sin, but was a voluntary
sacrifice. R2774:3, 2467:2
Our race, already nine-tenths dead, has but a feeble appreciation of the
value of life and has come to regard death with equanimity. To our Lord,
death must have been much more terrible than to us who are already
nine-tenths dead and correspondingly blunted in all our sensibilities.
R2467:3
Prof. Tischendorf shows that this account of our Lord's bloody sweat is
not found in the Vatican manuscript and that, although it appeared in the
original Sinaitic manuscript it was crossed out by a later critic. The
passage is therefore doubtful, or at least questionable. R2774:3
The drops, (called thromboiclots), are symptomatic of a disease called
diapedesis, and is caused by extreme tension of the nervous system. It
once afflicted Charles IX of France. R2767:1*
Luke 22:45
Disciples -- Gracefully he condescended to men of low estate, and

esteemed them brethren beloved, of whom he was not ashamed. R1801:2
It was no sign of weakness in the Master that he thus craved human
sympathy. R1801:2, 3886:6
Sleeping for sorrow -- Their eyes being heavy from sorrow. R3886:6
The hour was midnight; they were sharing his sorrows, but unable to
appreciate them rightly. R3886:6
Luke 22:46
Why sleep ye? -- Are we asleep, or are we heeding the words of the
Apostle, They that sleep, sleep in the night, but we who are of the day
should be awake, sober, putting on the whole armor of God? R3887:1
Rise and pray -- We are to pray together as the Lord's people; we are to
pray in our homes, as families; we are to pray in secret, in private; we
are to have the spirit of prayer in all that we say and do. R2775:5
Some make the mistake of praying without watching; others make the mistake
of watching without praying; but the only safe and proper method is that
which our Lord directed, to combine the two. R2775:5
There seems to be special need of this during the Memorial season.
R3178:3,6, 3179:1
Lest ye enter -- Those who neglect the Master's words will be sure to
enter into temptation, and tolerably sure to fall therein. The fall will
be severe, even though, like Peter, they should be afterward recovered out
of it--but with weeping. R2775:5
In this evil time, an hour of severe trial is upon us all. R2774:5, 2775:4
There is a peculiar force of temptations at the time of the Passover,
every Spring. R3178:3, 3760:3
Luke 22:47
While he yet spake -- Arresting him by night, fearing that an arrest in

daylight would create a disturbance at a time when the city was full of
visitors to the Passover. R3887:2
A multitude -- Not Roman soldiers, but a rabble of the curious, with
certain servants of the High Priest, who was also a Judge. These were
court officers, an impromptu sheriff's posse. R3887:2, 2779:1, 2467:6
Judas -- At the beginning of his discipleship, probably sincere, the
gross defection of heart and character coming on him gradually, beginning
with the merest suggestion and ending with the most awful tragedy. The
suggestion was probably along the line of selfishness. R3887:4, 2779:2
There will always be a motive, good or bad, back of every deed done to
under-members of his body, as well as to the Head. To find strong motives
is not to find valid excuses for treacheries. R2468:2
The Judas spirit of selfishness even today might lead to betray of the
Lord by the betrayal and injury of one of the least of his followers.
R3887:5, 2468:1
One of the most detestable characters in history. R4909:5
Whose heart was selfish, ambitious, covetous--a money-lover, betraying the
Master for thirty pieces of silver. R5552:2, 4908:2, 3759:6, 3366:3
As retribution, Judas died soon by his own hand. R3369:3
When temptation comes, the disloyal and selfish Judas class receive it,
entertain it, enter into the spirit of it heartily, and are swallowed up
by it. R3760:1, 4908:1
Went before them -- It is presumed, apparently on good grounds, that
they first sought Jesus in the upper room, where he had left less than an
hour before. Finding them gone, Judas knew he would be most likely to find
them at Gethsemane. R2468:1
Judas either knew the garden as a spot frequented by Jesus and the
disciples, or had learned at the supper where the company intended to go
subsequently. R3887:2
Evidently advancing beyond the band to give the salutation, according to
prearrangement, they he should thus indicate the one they sought. R2779:2
To kiss him -- The Greek indicates that he kissed him repeatedly. R3887:2
The representatives of the Judas spirit follow his course even to the
extent of betraying with a kiss, ofttimes professing great love and
respect for the members of the body of Christ, whom they secretly smite
for their personal gain, or in an endeavor to gain place or influence or
other selfish aggrandizement. R3887:6
Some are willing to sell even their lips, as Judas did, so that, while
professing to honor and serve the Lord, they are willing to join with
those who misrepresent his character, his plan and his Word. R2779:4
Luke 22:48
Betrayest thou -- Judas was the chief, the real crucifier, because of
his knowledge and willfulness. Upon him alone our Lord placed the full
guilt. R1962:5
Luke 22:49
Smite with the sword -- All through the dark ages the sword, military
power, was invoked and used on behalf of one party and then another of
professed followers of Christ; sometimes against unbelievers, but very
frequently against fellow-professors. R2779:4
Luke 22:50
Smote the servant -- Peter probably reasoned that if the Lord had
directed the bringing of the swords they were for use and not ornament.
R2778:6
Perhaps he remembered the Lord's words of a few hours previous, to the
effect that his followers would all forsake him, and his own promise,
"Although all shall be offended, yet will not I." (Mark 14:29) R2468:6
Of the high priest -- If Roman soldiers had the matter in charge, the
high priest's servant no doubt would have been less officious. R2468:1
Cut off his right ear -- The blow was evidently intended for the head,
but perhaps was providentially warded off so as to injure merely the ear.
R2779:1
Luke 22:51
Suffer ye -- While the excitement and activities of a battle inspire

courage, to be compelled to stand idle and not be permitted to lift a hand
in self-defense in the presence of an armed enemy, is most discouraging to
anyone. R2779:1
Healed him -- Exemplifying his words, "Love your enemies, do good to
them which persecute you." R2469:1
Luke 22:53
This is your hour -- It is probable that Judas was disappointed in the

result of his betrayal. Apparently he expected that our Lord would deliver
himself by miraculous power from the hands of his enemies. R2468:2
The power of darkness -- The power of Satan is the power of darkness,
ignorance and superstition. As the light of truth advances, the power that
can only work in darkness is to that extent curtailed. R1233:3
Luke 22:54
Then took they him -- It would appear that the Jewish Sanhedrin
exercised a certain amount of authority in respect to religious matters,
and were permitted to make arrests, but not to execute criminals without
the consent of the Roman governor. R2467:6
Our Lord surrendered voluntarily. R5922:2
Into the high priest's house -- For a preliminary hearing to examine
Jesus and formulate and decide upon the charges on which it would convict
at the formal meeting at dawn. R2470:4
It is clear that this was an irregular meeting of this assembly of the
nation's representatives, drawn together by common consent to participate
in the crime of condemning their Messiah, Jehovah's Anointed. R1809:2
Evidently a few such men as Joseph of Arimathea, Nicodemus and probably a
few others known to be favorably inclined toward the new teacher were
carefully excluded. R1809:2
Peter followed -- John points out that Peter and himself followed at a
distance. Their deep interest in the Master would not permit them to go to
their homes; they must keep him in sight, and note how things would go
with him to the very last. R2469:2
His very courage led him into the trap placed before him by the adversary.
This quality showed when he went into the courtyard of the palace and
mingled with those who were there, even after cutting off the ear of one
of the priest's servants. R5202:2
Luke 22:57
I know him not -- Far better for poor Peter to have openly declared,
"Yes, I am one of his disciples, and since I presume that none such are
wanted here I will go out." R2469:2
Peter's failure was along the very line of his strength. He was naturally
courageous, had boasted of it, and yet failed for lack of courage. "When I
am weak then I am strong," implies that he who feels himself strong is
really weak, as in Peter's case. R2469:5
So with some today; when they are by themselves or with others of like
precious faith, they are bold and courageous; but when in palaces or
amongst officers of nominal Christianity, they are ashamed of their Master
and afraid to confess him. R2469:2
But this sin was before the Spirit was given. F224
His devotion succumbed to his fears, so that he openly denied him. R1987:6
Perhaps the Lord allowed that to happen for our sakes, that we might
realize our need to put our confidence in the Lord. CR307:5
Luke 22:58
I am not -- One false step leads naturally to another; to have now

declared for Jesus would have been a public testimony that he was a liar,
in addition to leading to his apprehension. R2469:3
Luke 22:61
Looked upon Peter -- A look of loving sympathy. R4712:5

And Peter remembered -- Had he realized the trials that were near, how
vigilant he doubtless would have been! How ready are we for the
harvest-time ordeal? R3886:6, 3887:1
Luke 22:62
Wept bitterly -- The weeping showed that the denial was merely the
result of the weakness of the flesh. R5202:2
His crushing out of the evil inclination toward self-preservation proved,
that in spite of his thrice-repeated denial, he was at heart loyal to his
Master. So with us; he who resists the smallest temptation thereby
strengthens his character that he may be able to withstand greater ones.
R5202:2
Both Peter and Judas were penitent; the one was accepted back to divine
favor, the other was not. The one, merely entrapped, at heart was not
disloyal, and was restored and blessed. The other, though not without
conscience, as shown by his later remorse, was without the genuine loyalty
of heart which in the Lord's sight is indispensable. R4908:1
Tradition says that for the rest of his life Peter arose every morning at
cock-crowing to remember afresh this denial of the Lord. R3368:1
Luke 22:63
Mocked him -- Low minds delight in the misfortunes of those whom they
realize to be their superiors. R2470:5
And smote him -- "I gave my back to the smiters and my cheeks to them
that plucked off the hair." (Isa. 50:6) E52
(Heb. 12:3) R2781:6
Luke 22:64
They struck him -- It is not necessary to suppose the officer

intentionally unjust; rather, influenced by his desire to appear zealous
in support of the high priest, this accentuated his mental unbalance as a
fallen man, and led him to imagine evil where there was none. R2469:6
On the face -- Our Lord did not literally turn the other cheek and ask
the man to smite that also. This illustrates how the Lord's people are to
understand this command, meaning simply that they are not to resist evil
with evil, but to resist evil with good. R2469:6
Luke 22:65
Many other things -- "I hid not my face from shame and spitting." (Isa.
50:6) E52
Between the examination and formal conviction, our Lord was subjected for
two hours to mocking and insults. R2470:5
By contrast, the spirit of Christ is that of love, gentleness, sympathy,
kindness. R2470:5
Luke 22:66
As soon as it was day -- About five o'clock. The Jewish Law forbade a
trial by night. R2470:4
Led him -- The formal trial before the Sanhedrin at dawn was merely a
ceremony--a farce--the determination to kill Jesus having been reached
long before his arrest. R2470:4
They desired no such King, no such Savior, no such Messiah. R3895:3
Into their council -- It is not sufficient that we go through a form or
ceremony of justice. It is all-important that we have more than the forms
of justice; we must have the spirit of righteousness, a love for
Luke 22:69
Hereafter shall the Son -- This prophecy compassed the certainty of his
death and resurrection and pointed to his return in the end of the Gospel
age in power and great glory. R1809:5
Right hand of power -- "Sit thou on my right hand till I make thine
enemies thy footstool." (Psa. 110:1) A92, 93
Luke 22:70
The Son of God -- The Jews would have been afraid to call themselves
sons of God, or to call him their Father. If they had spoken of themselves
as sons of God, they would have thought that they were doing something
reprehensible. R5219:2
Not Jehovah himself. R2781:5
Because he said this, they said he was a blasphemer. R5219:2, 2781:5
Ye say that I am -- Knowing that his reply would be like signing his
death warrant. R1809:5
Luke 22:71
Need we any further -- The condemnation was rushed through for two
reasons: (1) the great Jews feared that the common people would defend
Jesus; and (2) the Passover was at hand and they wanted to kill him before
it. R2470:4
How little did they realize that they were being permitted of God to
exercise the evil desires of their hearts, and thus to fulfill types and
prophecies to the very day. R2470:4
Luke 23
Luke 23:1
The whole multitude -- Escorting him thither to make sure that their
purpose should be accomplished. R1809:3
Arose -- Intent on getting him into the hands of the Roman soldiers at
the earliest possible moment, so that the multitudes might realize his
case as beyond the power of their intervention. R2470:6
Led him -- Early in the morning of the day of crucifixion, about eight
o'clock. R3895:2
Unto Pilate -- The Roman Government had taken away from the Jewish
Sanhedrin the power of capital punishment, and nothing short of Jesus'
death was in their minds. R2785:3
Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea, had in his hands the power of life
and death. The Jewish Sanhedrin was permitted to govern the country in a
religious way, according to Jewish law and custom, but had no power to
order public execution. R2470:3
Pilate seems to have had a reputation for cruelty. Philo speaks of "his
corruption, his cruelty, his continual murders of people untried and
uncondemned." R2470:6
The Roman governor, who cared nothing for their religious ideas. R1809:6,
3895:6, 3368:1
He saw that it was the religious power of the Jewish rulers that was in
danger, and not the civil powers of the Roman government. R3895:3
He shortly afterward lost his commission as governor, and in despondency
committed suicide. R3369:3
Luke 23:2
To accuse him -- Realizing the wide influence already attained by his

teachings, they desired to make his execution as public and disgraceful as
possible, to the intent that his followers might be chagrined and
humiliated. R2470:3
Perverting the nation -- The valiant for the truth have ever been
considered enemies by the nominal mass. All who endeavor to withstand
error in its popular forms must expect to bear the same reproach, and for
a time be esteemed the troublers of Israel. R577:5
Sedition, agitation against the existing order; inciting to rebellion.
R2472:2, 3895:3, 3554:5, 2785:3, 1810:1
Treason; a charge likely to arouse the wrath of the Roman rulers. R1809:6,
3368:6
Intimating that the incident would be reported at Rome, reflecting against
Pilate's vigilance. R3896:4, 3555:4, 1810:4
Forbidding to give tribute -- Entirely false. (Matt. 22:21) R1810:1
That he interfered with the collection of the Roman taxes. R2785:3,
3895:3, 3554:5, 2472:2, 1810:1
Whereas he himself had paid taxes with the money taken from the fish's
mouth, and had said only two days previous, "Render unto Caesar the things
that are Caesar's." (Mark 12:17) R3368:2
Is Christ a King -- The Jewish Sanhedrin tried the Lord under a
different charge altogether. Their charge against him was blasphemy.
R5221:3
They did not mention the charge on which they themselves had convicted
Jesus falsely, namely, blasphemy; for this would have been no crime
whatever in the eyes of the Roman governor. R2472:2, 1809:6
Three counts: (1) sedition, raising a tumult; (2) that he taught the
people that they should not give tribute to Caesar; and (3) that he
himself claimed to be the king who should receive the tribute. R3895:3,
3554:5, 3368:2, 2785:3, 2472:2, 1810:1
It is possible that in the closing scenes of the Church's experience some
may be branded as blasphemers and hailed before governments on the charges
of preaching Christ as another King. R3369:5
Luke 23:3
Pilate -- A heathen man, neither Christian nor Jew. R2785:4, 3895:6,

3368:2, 2786:4
Placed in Jerusalem, not to do justice, but to keep order, maintaining the
authority of the Roman empire. R3895:6, 3368:3
Art thou the King -- The Jews had not made such a charge against Jesus.
Indeed, they were far from wishing to acknowledge the Galilean as King of
the Jews. R2471:4
This was a question which our Lord could not properly evade. He was the
King of the Jews. He could not deny the fact now before Pilate. At the
same time it was due Pilate that he plainly show that he was not seeking
to wrest the government from Pilate and the Romans at this time. R3554:6
Remarkably few of those who have heard of Jesus have recognized that he is
a king. Many can recognize in our Lord the attitude of a priest, who fail
to realize that he is also to be a king. The priest's office speaks mercy
and forgiveness; but the kingly office is no less essential--men must be
delivered and ruled in order to develop. R2471:5
And he answered -- Serenely. This was the secret of our Lord's
composure. He had surrendered to his Father his every interest. In
proportion as we have been filled with his spirit and loving submission we
will be able to be calm under the most severe and trying ordeals. R3895:4
Thou sayest it -- That is, "Your statement is correct; I am a king."
R2471:5
Not quite equivalent to yes, and yet it intimated that he did not wish to
dispute the charge. R3368:4
When arraigned before the priests and Pilate, and when crucified, he was
the calmest of the calm, by the Lord's strengthening. R3759:3
Similarly, we should not deny dangers nor boast of courage, but lean upon
the arm of the Lord. R3759:6
Luke 23:4
To the chief priests -- The most rabid of our Lord's foes were the chief
priests and rulers, and the Jewish mob whom they incited, authorized, and
in a sense, legalized, by their learning, pretended piety, and official
position as those who "sat in Moses' seat." R3895:1
It is nominal Christendom and her Doctors of Divinity whose opposition is
chiefly roused and whose tongues are the loudest in crying against all the
true members of the Body of Christ. R3895:2
I find no fault -- Pilate had definitely made up his mind that there was
no danger whatever to the Roman Empire from the meek and lowly person whom
he had interviewed--he was surely not an anarchist, nor an insurrectionist
of any kind. R2785:5
There must have been something very striking in our Lord's personal
appearance to have caused Pilate to consider for a moment the rejection of
the demands of the Jewish Court or Sanhedrin. R2471:3
The Jewish leaders were chagrined with Pilate's decision. R2785:6
This decision is the decision of all fair-minded people, from his day to
the present, irrespective of religious prejudices. R2785:5
Luke 23:5
Beginning from Galilee -- Attempting to prove that the teachings of

Jesus were calculated to arouse a revolution amongst the people; that
already in Galilee it had great influence, and now he was coming to
Jerusalem, etc. R2785:6
The Lord's teachings were revolutionary as respected religious matters;
but the charge was not true in the sense they wished Pilate to understand,
that he was a breeder of a political revolution. R2785:6
We, like our Lord, stand committed to a revolution on the lines of true
religious worship, but we, like our Lord, have nothing whatever to do with
political revolutions. R2785:6
Luke 23:6
A Galilean -- Although born in Bethlehem, Jesus was reared in Nazareth,

"that he might be called a Nazarene"--that he might not have the honor of
the "City of David," but the odium of "a mean city." R4556:3
Luke 23:7
To Herod -- This is the same Herod who, about a year and a half before,
had beheaded John the Baptist, and who, hearing of Jesus, had suggested
that he might be a reincarnation of John. R3368:6, 2786:1, 2472:2
The son of Herod the great who slew the infants at the time of our Lord's
birth. R2786:1
Pilate found a loophole, a way of escape from his dilemma, by referring
the case to Herod. R3555:4, 2786:1, 2472:2
Luke 23:9
Answered him nothing -- There is a time to speak and a time to hold

silence, and our Lord was the master of the situation. Undoubtedly his
silence was more forceful than anything he could have said. R3895:5
Our Lord was not there in self-defense, nor to plead his cause, nor to
seek to escape the penalty for our sins, but the reverse. R2786:1
Probably the most striking rebuke he could have ministered to Herod. He
was determined to do nothing to hinder the accomplishment of that which he
knew to be the divine purpose--his death that very day. R3368:6
Herod was evidently provoked by this silence, but dare not belittle
himself by showing this. R3895:5
Luke 23:10
The chief priests -- We are not to think of these men as wilfully,

knowingly, crucifying the Son of God. On the contrary, the Apostle assures
us that it was in ignorance that they did it. (Acts 3:17; 1 Cor. 2:8)
R2786:3
Luke 23:11
Set him at nought -- His verdict was: Not guilty--innocent. R3895:5

Mocked him -- Herod no doubt was piqued, as well as disappointed, by our
Lord's conduct and his inability to gain entertainment from him as
expected. R2472:2
In a gorgeous robe -- Herod regarded Jesus as a pretender, and no doubt
thought it a stroke of wit to parody his claims of royalty. R3895:5
Again to Pilate -- With a desire to return Pilate's compliment and
perhaps with some little touch of remorse of conscience in respect to the
beheading of John the Baptist. R2472:2
Expressing his appreciation of Pilate's course, but declining to interfere
in Pilate's territory. R3369:1
Luke 23:12
Pilate and Herod -- The act of deference on the part of both restored
their friendship. R5571:1
Luke 23:13
And Pilate -- Manifesting far greater concern than the Papacy would have
done under similar circumstances. B330
Luke 23:14
Perverteth the people -- As Jesus was called a perverter of the people

by the "orthodox" of his day, all who withstand error must bear the same
reproach. R577:5
Have found no fault -- In these words we have Pilate's verdict--not
guilty. According to Roman law this was the proper ending of the case.
R3555:4
Some six times in all Pilate declared the innocence of Jesus. R3369:1
Pilate's course was noble and just, though not the noble and just one
which we would have preferred for him. R3368:3, 2786:4
We are not of those who condemn Pilate. He was a servant of the empire.
Only a clearly enlightened and fully consecrated saint could have been
expected to do more than Pilate did for the release of Jesus. R2472:6
The apostles do not implicate either Pilate or the civil authorities, but
hold responsible the Jews and their leaders. (Acts 2:23) R2786:4
Luke 23:15
Nor yet Herod -- It is stated, on the authority of the early Christians,

that the majority of the Roman magistrates behaved like men of polished
manners and liberal education, frequently dismissing charges against
Christians with contempt, or suggesting to accused Christians some legal
evasion. B330
Luke 23:16
Chastise him -- Pilate wished to placate the mob spirit which he

perceived at his court gate; if Jesus were scourged, and thus demeaned,
the people would probably be more likely to let the incident drop than if
the Lord were turned free without chastisement. R3896:1, 3369:1, 2786:2,
2472:3 23:17
He must release one -- A matter of custom at this season, showing
clemency and favor. R3368:5, 3896:1, 2786:2
As a subterfuge, Pilate proposed to consider Jesus guilty, to thus satisfy
the Jews, and then release him as the customary prisoner. R2786:2, 3896:2,
3368:5
It occurred to Pilate that one way to appease the Jews, to let them feel
that they had not been utterly defeated, would be to allow the supposition
that he was justly condemned, and then to let him be the prisoner usually
respited at this season every year. R3555:5, 2786:2
Luke 23:18
Away with this man -- Religious fanaticism is the deepest, wickedest and
most conscienceless of hatreds. R2313:2
Barabbas -- They were filled with the spirit of the Adversary--they
hated the Light and the Light-Bearer, preferring a murderer. R3896:2
The world's natural choice is for one of murderous spirit rather than for
a saint. R3896:2
Accusing Jesus of being a traitor to Rome and asking to have him
crucified, and in the same breath urging the release of one about whose
rioting there was no question. R3368:5
How untruthful is the proverb, "Vox populi, vox Dei"--The voice of the
people is the voice of God. R3555:5
This scene has often been alleged as the self-condemnation of democracy.
Vox populi, vox Dei, its flatterers have said. But the multitude chooses
Barabbas. The priests and nobles were no better than the mob. It was by
their advice that the mob chose. R3896:4, 3369:5
Luke 23:19
A certain sedition -- There had been a real sedition, a genuine movement

against the authority of Rome, at a previous time, and Barabbas and others
had been made prisoners on account of it. R3368:5
Luke 23:21
They cried -- Showing that, as a nation, they were unworthy and unready
for God's work. R4593:5
At the close of Jesus' ministry only about 500 worthy ones had been found.
R4593:5
Crucify him -- To have stoned him to death as a blasphemer they feared
would leave him a martyr, while to have him publicly executed as a
criminal would, they hoped, brand Jesus, his teachings and his followers,
forever with infamy. R2473:1
It was not divinely intended that our Lord should be stoned, but that he
should be treated as a cursed one--hanged upon a tree. (Deut. 31:22,23)
R5221:3
The vilest sentence or curse against sinners under the law Jesus bore,
that he might not only be the Redeemer of the world in general, but also
the Redeemer of the Jew. R3901:3
The horrible method of execution for the vilest of criminals, its severity
being intended to intimidate and deter evil-doers, rather than as a
gratification of cruel sentiments. R2473:1
Their enmity to Jesus was because he and his teachings were discounting
them and their teachings before the people. R2786:2
Selfishness lies at the foundation of every sin and every crime. R2786:2
They were to a large degree under the influence of our great Adversary.
R4308:3
Luke 23:22
I have found no cause -- We are to be blameless in the sight of those of

mankind who are recognized as having the best judgment amongst the people.
Thus it was with our Lord. While the world blamed him, yet in their
private councils they recognized the fact that he was harmless. R4797:1
Luke 23:24
Pilate gave sentence -- He was placed as the representative of Rome at

Jerusalem, not to do justice, but to keep order; not to favor and forward
the divine plans, but to represent and maintain the authority of the Roman
empire. R3895:6, 3368:3
The Roman Government expected him to be absolutely just in respect to
Roman citizens; dealings with others were to be conciliatory. PD69/83
An unwilling instrument, he was not one hundredth part as guilty as the
Jews. R3369:3
As they required -- Under stress of the Jews, and to keep peace, Pilate
caused the charge to be made that Jesus was crucified because of claiming
to be King of the Jews. R5221:3
Luke 23:25
He delivered Jesus to their will -- Influenced more by considerations of

policy than of principle. R1810:4
Is not this as high a level as is ever attained by earthly law and
justice? What human law can stand against the will of the people? The
blame lies, not with Pilate, but with the Jews and their rulers. R3896:5
Luke 23:26
They -- The centurion and soldiers appointed by Pilate. R5221:3

It was customary to have four soldiers attend each prisoner to execution.
R2473:5
Pilate's soldiers who, heartless and brutal, made sport of the Master's
adversities. R2786:5
Led him away -- Not willingly, but by reason of the stress laid on
Pilate by the Jewish nation. R5221:3
Along the narrow streets of Jerusalem to the Damascus gates. The entire
distance from the castle Antonio to the hill-top called Calvary is about
three-fourths of a mile. R3900:2
The narrative seems to imply that Jesus bore his own cross on the way to
Calvary, and that he fell beneath its weight. R5221:3, 4171:5
His weakness was not the result of inherited blemish or sin, nor of
imperfection, but the result of sacrifice. R4138:2, 1359:4
One Simon -- Evidently a strong and rugged countryman, who was passing
by. R5222:1
We know nothing respecting Simon, except Mark relates that he was the
father of Alexander and Rufus, giving the suggestion that these two sons
may subsequently have become followers of Jesus, and well-known amongst
the disciples. R2473:2
Tradition declares that he afterwards became one of the Master's
disciples. R5222:4
Simon represented in this case all of the Lord's faithful ones who help to
bear the cross, following his example, walking in his steps. R5222:4
The disciples of Jesus missed the opportunity. One had said he was ready
to die with the Lord, and so said they all. In the moment of testing they
did not display this courage. It is much easier to attest great loyalty
than it is to manifest it when the test comes. R5222:1, 3370:1, 2473:2
We are to remember that the disciples were common people, despised as
Galileans, and had reason to fear the wrath of the chief priests and
rulers. R3901:2
If we are disposed to envy Simon his privilege in the bearing of the
cross, let us reflect that many of the Lord's brethren are daily bearing
symbolic crosses, and that it is our privilege to assist them. R3370:1
The cross -- Perhaps 12 to 14 feet long, with a cross-beam of at least 5
feet. Since there are no light woods in the vicinity of Jerusalem and
olive, a very heavy wood, is most common, we estimate its weight at 150 to
200 pounds. R5221:6
The crosses were not so large and heavy as generally illustrated in modern
paintings. The evidence is that the feet of the crucified were usually
only twelve to eighteen inches from the ground. R2473:2
As the wooden cross was not our Lord's heaviest burden, so, too, his
followers have crosses which the world sees not, but which the brethren
should understand. R3370:1
The cross has become fashionable, worn as an ornament, with little thought
of what the original signified of shame and ignominy. R2787:1
The Lord will send the aid necessary, even though, as in this case, it be
impressed, and that because of the sympathy of the worldly. R3370:1
Bear it -- While he, from exhausting labor and daily sacrifice for the
good of others, endured weakness and weariness, yet men did not recognize
the real cause of his physical weakness, but esteemed him stricken and
smitten of God, as though he were a sinner like other men, and therefore,
like them, subject to physical decline and death. R1359:4
We have no opportunity of doing anything of this kind for the Master
himself. But he is still with us in the brethren. What a precious
privilege this affords us of still helping to bear the Master's cross.
R5222:1
Now the cross is with us. There is still room for bearing it and
experiencing crucifixion of the flesh as the representatives of him who
loved us and bought us with his own precious blood. R3901:3, 2787:1, 2473:3
After Jesus -- Implying that Simon did not carry the cross entirely, but
merely assisted Jesus, carrying the hinder part of it, which usually
dragged. R3369:6, 2787:1
Whether this means that Jesus walked before and that Simon carried the
cross behind him, or whether it means that Simon walked back of Jesus
carrying the end which otherwise was dragging, we cannot surely know. If
the latter, it furnishes a more striking illustration of how we are to
walk in his footsteps and join with him in carrying the symbolic cross.
R3901:1
His weakness was not the result of inherited blemish or sin, nor the
weakness of imperfection, but of sacrifice. R4138:2
When we think of our Lord as a perfect man, we would not think of him as
being the strongest of men. R5221:6, 2787:2
The coarseness and brute strength which we find in many men is to be
esteemed a degeneration, as truly as is weakness and effeminacy of
others--only that the degeneracy has manifested itself in another form.
R2787:2
The cross will not be too heavy for us. The Lord will bear the heavy end
of it; and our experiences will be only such as will be for our good and
will work out for our blessing. R5222:4
Luke 23:27
Of women -- Quite probably these included Mary, our Lord's mother,

Martha and Mary of Bethany, and Mary Magdalene. R3370:1, 2473:4, 1816:1
Bewailed -- It is to their credit that some who followed in the
procession were weeping, and this credit for tenderness and sympathy falls
to the women. R2787:3
Luke 23:28
Weep not for me -- Even in our Lord's last moments his thoughts were not
of himself but of others. R2787:3
Our Lord's tears were shed chiefly in sympathy on behalf of others (John
11:35), while forbidding others to weep for him. Let us be like
him--strong to bear our own griefs and tender to feel the sorrows and sins
of others. R1886:5*
Weep for yourselves -- This he said in reference to the atrocities which
would mark the overthrow of their nation and the destruction of Jerusalem.
R1816:2, 2787:3
Luke 23:30
Mountains -- Governments. R621:5

Fall on us -- Cover, protect us. The Lord certainly did not expect
wicked men to get faith enough to pray for mountains to fall on them.
B139; R5577:3
Applied at the time of the destruction of Jerusalem, and now in the
closing time of this age. R5577:3
Hills -- Rocks, societies. R621:5
Luke 23:31
In a green tree -- If their rulers could sanction such injustice and

lawlessness while their greenness, freshness and religious vitality
remained, what might be expected in the future, after the religious
vitality had dried out. R2473:4
What shall be done -- If bigotry and bitter falsification are practised
before the Evangelical Alliance has any life, how arrogant might we
suppose the same persons to become after the image would receive life?
R5349:5
At the time of the destruction of Jerusalem, hundreds of Jews were
crucified at once. R1816:4
Luke 23:32
Two other -- Perhaps to distract from the injustice of their own course
and to throw a measure of justice into the proceedings as a whole, or
perhaps to demean Jesus in making him a companion of outlaws. R3370:4
Luke 23:33
Called Calvary -- A Latin name, signifying skull; Golgotha, the word

used by Matthew, also signifies a skull, in Aramaic, the original language
of the Jews in Palestine. The name was probably applied because the hill,
viewed from a little distance, resembled a skull. R3900:6, 3370:2, 2473:3
Golgotha! There is a legend that it was the very center of the earth's
surface, the middle point of the habitable globe. We think nothing of the
legend, but very much of the truth which it suggests, for the cross of
Christ is the true center of the Church where all believers meet, of all
tribes and nations. R4174:1*
They crucified him -- The wooden crosses were laid upon the ground, the
victims stretched thereon, and nailed by hands and feet; then the soldiers
lifted the crosses and set them into already prepared holes or sockets.
The torture of these experiences can better be imagined than described.
R3901:3, 3370:2, 2787:3
Crucifixion is probably the most cruel form of death. Even by the Romans
it was practiced only upon culprits--usually outlaws, brigands and
seditionists. Thus our Lord was "numbered with the transgressors." (Isa.
53:12) R2787:3
The crucifixion took place at the third hour, Jewish reckoning, or nine
o'clock, our reckoning. R3370:3, 1815:6
His death was a great trial of faith to all his disciples. R3179:1
Luke 23:34
Forgive them -- While doubtless of a forgiving spirit, we doubt that

Jesus uttered these words because: (1) they are not found in the Codex
Vaticanus (fourth century) or Codex Alexandricus (fifth century); (2)
these men were unrepentant, and repentance is essential to forgiveness;
(3) they lacked faith, and faith must precede forgiveness; (4) the
sacrificial work was not yet finished; and (5) there is no evidence their
sins were forgiven. R4172:5, 3901:4, 2474:5
We cannot, however, have any doubt that the words represented our Master's
sentiments toward his enemies, for they are in full accord with his
instructions to his followers, Love your enemies, do good to them that
persecute you, and pray for them. R3901:4
We find no mention in the Scriptures of forgiving on God's part without
the requirement of repentance. This passage might be so considered, but
these words are not found in the oldest Greek manuscripts--the Sinaitic
and Vatican. R1694:5
While Abel's death called for vengeance (Heb. 12:24), Christ's life was
sacrificed for us and calls instead for mercy. Not only was he slain by
men, but he was slain for men. R1614:6
These words are not to be taken in account; Jesus had foretold in his
parable that God would punish them. (Luke 20:14-16) R5577:5, 4172:5
We have no evidence that the sin was forgiven, but that the prayer of the
Jews, "His blood be on us and on our children" (Matt. 27:25), was
answered. R4172:5
Nevertheless, we feel sure that this was the sentiment of his heart, as it
was also that of Stephen (Acts 7:60). R3901:4, 4172:5, 2474:4
For they know not -- The apostles said of the traducers of Jesus, his
real crucifiers, "I wot that in ignorance ye did it, as did also your
rulers." (Acts 3:17) Much of the opposition to the body of Christ will be
able to similarly pass by as done in blindness and ignorance. R3895:2
Sins that are committed in ignorance and blindness will be forgiven
through the merit of Christ. HG147:6
The Lord, who will be the judge, himself prayed forgiveness upon the
ground of at least a large measure of ignorance. R1655:4
To be sure, they did not know that they were rejecting him, but they did
not want to know. R591:3*
Parted his raiment -- Little did they think that they were thus
fulfilling prophecy. Just so it is with the whole world; matters are
moving on from day to day, prophecies are being fulfilled, many of us have
part in them, but few can see and understand, because only a few have the
guidance of the holy Spirit. R3901:4, 3370:3, 2474:1
The division of the spoil was customary at every crucifixion, and gave
evidence of the indifference and hard-heartedness of the soldiers in the
presence of suffering. R2474:1
The masses of mankind since have been doing just what the people did upon
the day of our Lord's crucifixion. Some looked, but sympathized little,
and appreciated not; others derided and blasphemed; others made sport of
it, and still others, with rude jest, gambled over his raiment. R1988:3
And cast lots -- For his seamless tunic, which was the most valuable
article. R3901:5
That robe properly and beautifully represents Christ's righteousness. The
lot, or privilege, to have this garment has fallen chiefly to us of
civilized lands. R2788:3
It is not by lot, accident or choice that this robe comes to the Lord's
people. It is obtained only through the exercise of faith, and held only
by the obedience of faith. R2474:1
Fulfilling the prophecy of Psa. 22:18, "They parted my garments among
them, and cast lots upon my vesture." R2474:1, 3370:3
Luke 23:35
The rulers also -- Neglecting, doubtless, important matters in their

eagerness to make sure that he did not escape them. R3370:6, 2787:4
Derided him -- "As he was, so are we in this world." (1 John 4:17) "We
did esteem him stricken, smitten of God." (Isa. 53:4) R2316:5, 3370:5
He saved others -- A singular admission of the truth. R3370:6
Save himself -- He could have saved himself. (Matt. 26:53) R5195:4,
3901:6
Luke 23:36
The soldiers also -- Seeming to feel that this was an exposure of

another fraud, the ignominious termination of another one who had asserted
himself against the power of Caesar. R2787:4
Spurred on by the influence of the Jewish rulers. R3901:6
Offering him vinegar -- The offering of wine mingled with bitter myrrh,
otherwise styled gall, was not an indignity as is usually supposed, but an
act of kindness. R3370:2
Luke 23:37
Save thyself -- He could not save others and save himself too; for only
by the sacrifice of himself could he hope to save others. R1815:6
Making light of his miracles of healing and of awakening the dead. R3901:5
Had he done as he was dared to do, he would have ruined the hopes not only
of those who crucified him, but of all mankind. R2787:6
Luke 23:38
Letters of Greek -- Because it was the language of the visitors and of

the educated from all quarters. R2473:5
The language of literature. R3901:6, 3370:3, 2787:4
And Latin -- The language of the Romans, their rulers. R3901:6, 3370:3,
2787:4
Because it was the language of the empire and the soldiers. R2473:5
And Hebrew -- The language of their own nation. R3901:6, 3370:3, 2787:4,
2473:5
KING OF THE JEWS -- A title of shame and contempt, a brand of blasphemy
to those who read it. The multitude, going and coming to and from the
city, jested him upon his title, and the miserable failure of the fraud he
had attempted to perpetrate. R2787:4
Under stress and to keep peace, Pilate caused the charge to be made that
Jesus was crucified because of claiming to be King of the Jews. R5221:3
Little did Pilate comprehend this great truth. Few yet realize the truth
of this statement. Comparatively few have rendered him allegiance, bowing
the knee of their hearts in sincerity and truth. R2473:6
There is a slight difference in the statements of the different
Evangelists respecting the words used on this tablet. We suppose the words
differed slightly in the different languages, and the Evangelists quoted
from different originals. R2473:6
Luke 23:39
Save thyself and us -- If Jesus had saved his life, He could not have
become the King and Savior of the world, because only by his death could
the death sentence against Adam and his race be met. PD69/83
Luke 23:40
But the other -- As the multitude of onlookers were divided, some

sympathizing and some deriding, it is not surprising, that similar
emotions were awakened in the minds of the two robbers crucified with
Jesus. R3902:1
Indicating he had a tender and contrite heart, such as will be first to
receive Kingdom blessings. R5578:4, 5132:6
Answering -- He alone, so far as we are informed, raised his voice in
protest against the slurs, and in defense of the meek and lowly one.
R2787:6
The raillery of his companion only opened his mouth in defense of the
Savior. R3902:2
Manifesting a faith which, under the circumstances, was remarkable. R3902:1
Condemnation -- Judicial sentence. R331:3
Luke 23:41
But this man -- We cannot suppose that this thief had any correct or
definite idea of Jesus--nothing more than a mere feeling that he was about
to die, and a straw of hope was better than nothing. F667; R506:3
This living epistle made a marked impression upon him, just as sometimes
the conduct of the Lord's followers, patient in tribulation, is the
strongest and best lesson that can be given to some. R2787:6
Hath done nothing amiss -- Paraphrased: "I heard those falsifiers bear
false witness against you and I sympathized with you all the time. I knew
there was no evil character in you." Q711:3
Aside from the weeping of the disciples, the penitent thief's conduct is
the only mark of appreciation of the Lord's righteousness found in this
picture. Often the only sympathizers are some apparently deeply degraded.
R1988:6
Luke 23:42
Lord -- Doubtless the thief had heard of Jesus, that he was reputed by
some to be the Messiah, and notwithstanding the incongruous condition of
things, the thief realized that with our Redeemer there was a kingly
demeanor. R3902:2
Remember me -- Paraphrased: "If you are a King, and after you have come
into your office of King, and have your Kingdom, then remember this poor
thief, and do something for me, will you?" Q711:3; NS576:2
He had nothing to lose and all to gain by speaking a word in defense of
the holy dying one. Peradventure this might be the Messiah. He would at
least ask his blessing. NS576:2
When thou -- The import of his petition was that whenever Jesus reached
his Kingdom power, he desired favor. F668; R506:3
He has not come into his Kingdom yet. It is more than eighteen hundred
years and we are still praying, "Thy Kingdom come." Q711:3
Comest into thy kingdom -- "I heard you say before Pilate that you have
a Kingdom, but not of this age; some heavenly Kingdom." HG596:3, 645:5
When you receive your Kingdom, wherever it may be and under whatever
conditions, if it is in your power, remember me. R3902:2
Our Lord has not come into his Kingdom yet, and hence the time when that
thief wished to be remembered has not come. We are still praying, "Thy
Kingdom come." Q523:5
This will be fulfilled when our Lord takes unto himself his great power
and begins his reign, when he shall say to all the prisoners of the tomb,
"Go forth, and to those who sit in darkness, show yourselves." HG130:3
Our Lord Jesus has not yet fully come into his Kingdom; hence the time has
not yet come when the thief desired to be remembered. R4172:6
Luke 23:43
Verily -- The word translated "verily," or "indeed," is the Greek word amen,
and signifies "so be it," as you have asked. F668; R506:3, 5132:6, 3902:4,
2788:1; HG130:2, 596:4; PD69/83; Q711:3; NS576:3
As the thief was made glad by the assurance that he would then be under
the Kingdom rule in Paradise, so all who come to any understanding of the
divine program can rejoice, even though their lives hitherto have been
misspent. NS576:5
I say unto thee, -- The comma should be after and not before "today" in
order to permit harmony with the facts before us and agreement with other
Scriptures. The original Scriptures are not punctuated, punctuation being
a comparatively modern invention. R2788:3, 506:6; F669; HG646:1; PD69/83;
Q523:6; NS576:1
To read it as usually punctuated, it would teach that Jesus and the thief
went away somewhere that day, which is contrary to Luke 24:46; John 20:17
and John 3:13. R506:6
To day -- I assure you today, and give you the consolation, that when I
do come into the Kingdom in the Father's appointed time, you shall be with
me in that Paradise. NS576:1
Instances of a similar use of the word "today" are found in Deut. 15:15;
30:15,16; Acts 26:29. F669; HG130:4
This dark day, in which it would appear I have not a friend in heaven or
on earth; this dark day in which I am crucified as a malefactor, a
falsifier and a blasphemer. R5132:6; HG596:5; Q711:3
While no repentances are to be scoffed at, nevertheless death-bed
repentances are not to be esteemed passports to glory in the Kingdom.
NS576:5; HG645:3
When everything seems unfavorable, when I appear as an imposter, subject
to the insults and taunts of my enemies--notwithstanding all this, I tell
you, Thou shalt be with me in paradise. R3902:4, 2788:3, 506:3; F668
That this does not teach death-bed repentance is proved by the following
facts: (1) the thief did not go to Paradise that day; (2) nor did our
Lord; (3) Paradise was not then in existence; (4) the whole earth will
become Paradise; (5) the thief's blessing would be in the Millennium; (6)
the thief is still unconscious; (7) our Lord did not ascend into heaven
even when, three days later, he was resurrected; and (8) Christ has not
yet come into his Kingdom. NS575:5
Misinterpretation has done a great amount of harm. People have been
encouraged to continue a life of sin, trusting that with their dying
breath they may say, "God be merciful to me," and be immediately ushered
into glory. R5132:5; HG596:2, 645:1
On the day of their dying all three went to hades, to sheol, to the tomb,
to the state of the dead. The two thieves still remain there. But Jesus
arose from sheol on the third day. He has not been to Paradise, for
Paradise is not even yet in existence. R5133:1, 3902:4; HG596:6, 645:4
Shalt thou -- When he should come into his Kingdom at his second advent
he would, as the thief requested, remember him. R2788:1
Not merely because of the kindness done to Jesus, but especially because
his words indicated a sincerity and honesty of heart such as the Lord is
always glad to bless and reward. HG596:5, 646:5
Let none suppose that the two thieves will enter Paradise on the same
footing. HG437:4
The penitent thief will have the advantage over the other because, instead
of hardening his heart and joining with the rabble in reviling our Lord
during his dying moments, his heart was softened. NS577:5
The penitent thief will unquestionably have a two-fold blessing. First he
will be blessed because of his penitent attitude of mind; secondly,
because of his faithfulness in expressing that penitence and mercy to our
Lord in his distress. HG437:6
We doubt not that the kind words spoken in that dark hour to the Lord of
glory, will no more lose a suitable reward than the gift of a cup of cold
water. R506:6; F669
The stripes and punishments of the Millennial age will not be direct
punishments for present misdeeds, yet indirectly they will be such. NS577:2
Be with me -- Be remembered; be in my Kingdom when it is established,
because I have paid the ransom price for you and the other thief, and for
all men. F668; R506:5; PD69/83
Does not mean that sinners with dying breath saying, "God be merciful to
me," will be ushered into glory, honor and immortality, as joint-heirs
with the Savior. R5132:5
In paradise -- The word Paradise is of Persian origin, not Greek. It
signifies a garden. The Septuagint renders Gen. 2:8: "God planted a
paradise in Eden." The garden of Eden was but an illustration of the
perfect and beautiful earth when fully released from the curse. F668;
R506:5
Paradise is another name for the Garden of Eden, the abode of bliss.
HG435:2
If heaven be understood, we know that there must be some mistake, because
our Lord did not go to heaven that day. (Acts 2:31; Psa. 16:10) On the
morning of his resurrection, our Lord told Mary to tell his disciples that
he had not yet ascended to his Father. Paul declares that "he rose from
the dead on the third day." (1 Cor. 15:4) R3902:3; HG645:4; PD69/83
Paradise, or the Garden of the Lord, not only represents the earthly
condition, but it also applies in a figurative sense to the glorious and
heavenly position. (Rev. 2:7) HG435:6
When Jesus arose on the third day. he had not been to Paradise, for
Paradise is not even yet in existence. He had not been to heaven. He had
been dead. R5133:1; HG596:5
Paradise has not yet been established, because God's Kingdom has not yet
come to earth and it delays until a certain work for the Church shall be
accomplished. HG435:5
The word Paradise refers to the Garden of Eden, from which Adam and Eve
were cast out, and to the Paradise restored. The Garden of Eden had long
been destroyed. Therefore, the Paradise of the Kingdom is the only one to
which the Lord could have referred. R3902:3
At our Lord's second advent, when he shall take his great power and
re-establish Paradise in the earth, the Paradise which was lost on account
of sin. R4172:6
Not only the penitent thief will be there, but also the impenitent one,
and those Roman soldiers, and those bloodthirsty scribes and Pharisees and
priests--all will be in Paradise--not for any worthiness of their own, but
by reason of the merit of Christ's sacrifice. R2788:2; HG646:5
The believing thief was certainly not prepared for heaven. He was not
begotten of the Spirit, and hence could not be born of the Spirit in the
When Christ shall have established his Kingdom at his second coming, this
earth will gradually become a paradise. F668; R3902:3; Q845:1
Luke 23:44
About the sixth hour -- The trial before Pilate, the crucifixion, and
the body laid in the tomb occupying Friday forenoon and afternoon. R4212:4*
The ninth hour -- Hebrew, erev katon, the lesser evening, is from noon
to the ninth hour, or 3 p.m.; from that time until sun setting is called
in the Hebrew erev gadol, the greater evening. It was between these two
evenings the paschal lamb was to be slain, and so was Jesus, the antitype,
the Lamb of God. R2953:5*
A darkness -- Seems to have been a supernatural darkness; for an eclipse
of the sun was impossible during the full moon of the Passover time.
R1816:4
3:00 p.m., the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, the time
when Christ died. R2316:6, 3371:1
Doubtless sent as an expression of the divine wrath, and as typical of the
darkness of alienation from God into which that long favored nation had
plunged by this act. R1816:4
If human hearts were unsympathetic and unappreciative of the great
transaction, nature was not, for she, as a witness to the wonderful scene,
veiled her face in darkness and trembled. R1988:6
Undoubtedly the shade was more comfortable for the crucified ones than the
sunlight of that bright land. It was appropriate that nature be draped.
Well did it picture the temporary power of the power of darkness over him
who is the Light of the world. R3902:6
One ancient manuscript, the Gospel by Peter, treating of the subject, says
that "many went about with lamps, and that darkness lasted until Jesus was
taken from the cross." R2788:4, 4173:5
Luke 23:45
The veil of the temple -- Separating the Holy and the Most Holy--sixty
feet long and thirty feet wide, its thickness about four inches. R3371:2,
2788:4
Was rent in the midst -- Not from the bottom toward the top, as if the
result of wear, but from the top to the bottom, indicating a manifestation
of divine power. Representing symbolically the opening of the way between
heaven itself and the heavenly condition of those in the world. R3371:2,
2788:4
Luke 23:46
A loud voice -- His words, elsewhere recorded, were: "My God, my God,
why hast thou forsaken me?" (Matt. 27:46) R3903:1
Already weakened by the agony of Gethsemane, a repetition of the anguish
probably ruptured the heart, causing instant death. SM642:1
A testimony and a witness to all that were near of his hope in God and in
a resurrection. R4173:4
Father -- The heavenly Father, whose promises supported him during his
eventful life, and now were his strength in his dying hour. R1988:6
Into thy hands -- A quotation from Psa. 31:5. It had already been
declared of him that he would commend himself to the Father's grace and
truth. R2474:6
He has not yet made any application of his human life to Adam and his
race. He has merely put it into the Father's hands. R5621:2 He laid his
life down in the Father's hands. He had lost and forfeited none of his
earthly rights. These are the basis of all the blessings of God to Adam
and his race. R4642:4, 5621:1; Q658:2, 445:2, 374:4
I commend -- Thus Jesus, so to speak, made a deposit of the Ransom-price
without directly applying it. Q568:9, 571:6
The Ransom was here laid down at Calvary, and later placed in the hands of
Justice, but not paid over in the sense of completing the contract, that
being reserved for a future time. Q568:9
In his dying breath he expressed his faith that the Father would raise him
up to life. R3371:2, 2788:5
And so must we, in our dying hour, commit all our interests to the keeping
of him who loves us. R2475:4
"I commit." No change, no transfer. Not that I commit this in your care
for Father Adam or the world. I simply deposit it in your care and
keeping. Q223:T
Directly telling us that he not only gave himself a ransom, but "I commit
my spirit," I leave it with you. Many scriptures show how this is made
applicable. Q224:4
There he committed to the Father's hands a price, sufficient for all; but
it was not then appropriated for anybody. R4633:2
In the same sense you place money in the bank and take out a bank book in
which you get credit. It is still yours subject to your check. It would
not belong to the bank at all. It is merely committed to the bank to take
over. So Jesus committed all at his dying moment. Q571:6
In letting go his hold on life he surrendered it to the Father, who had
already promised that his life, being thus surrendered, should entitle him
to a higher life. This he received when he arose from the dead on the
"third day." R3903:4
He knew that the love of God was too great to allow a needless pain to
afflict his beloved Son, and therefore he trusted him where he could not
at the time trace his inscrutable ways. R1808:4
My spirit -- My life. R3371:2 He still has the life rights of the flesh.
He did not give them up. He permitted men to unlawfully take them from
him. He did not apply them for Adam and his race. These earthly life
rights are in the hands of the Father yet, and they are to be the life
rights to eventually come to Adam and his race. Q574:4
Jesus did not give this to anyone else. It was deposited in his own name.
Q223:T
He had life rights which had never been forfeited through sin, and was
committing these to the Father as the ransom price for Adam and his
forfeited spirit of life. R2788:5
How appropriate that he who had sought to do the Father's will at any cost
should have absolute confidence that in his death his spirit of life would
be in the Father's care and keeping. R4173:3
The spirit returns to God (Eccl. 12:7) in the sense that it is no longer
amenable to human control and can never be recovered except by divine
power. Thus we commit our hope for future life by resurrection to the
Father and to Christ, his now exalted representative. E344; R1880:5;
HG331:5
Stephen, the earliest martyr among the disciples, appears to have imitated
his Master in the closing scene, appealing thus: "Lord Jesus, receive my
spirit." (Acts 7:59) R700:4*
He had not forfeited his right to life as had Adam; it was still his
own--merely surrendered. R5578:5, 5972:4, 5621:2, 4642:4
When this ransom-price shall have been formally delivered over to Justice
in the end of this age, it will no longer be a deposit at the command of
the Savior, but will have been exchanged for Adam and his race. Eiv
Gave up the ghost -- An old English term. R2788:5
The word ghost was at one time used as a synonym for spirit, and the
meaning of this statement is that our Lord gave up his spirit, his breath
of life. R3903:4
Literally, out-breathed; that is, died. R700:4*
Since the great sacrifice has been finished acceptably, "there is
therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus." (Rom.
8:1) R2474:5
Instead of lingering long, he died suddenly, probably of a ruptured heart.
SM642:1; R4173:4
Luke 23:50
Joseph -- With Nicodemus; too careful of their reputations to avow their

interest in Jesus previously. R2877:6
The dilatory acknowledgment of Jesus on the part of these wealthy and
influential men reminds us of the peculiar difficulties which hinder all
persons of wealth and influence. R2788:6
Luke 23:52
And begged -- According to Mark, Joseph of Arimathea went boldly to

Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. R4173:5
Luke 23:53
He took it down -- It was no light matter Joseph had undertaken; for to

take part in a burial at any time would defile him for seven days and make
everything unclean which he touched (Num. 19:11); and to do so now
involved a seclusion through the whole Passover week with all its holy
observations and rejoicings. R4173:6
When our Lord died, he went to the tomb, not to paradise. Q523:6
Luke 23:54
That day -- Reckoned as the first day and night which Christ spent in
the tomb. R4212:4*
Luke 23:55
Galilee -- The vast majority of our Lord's miracles and teachings were
to the Galileans. R4556:3
Luke 24
Luke 24:1
The first day of the week -- Sunday morning. This day is reckoned as the
third day and night which Christ spent in the tomb. R4212:5*
Our Lord was crucified on Friday, the sixth day, too late to complete the
embalming, which would be hindered by the seventh day. If our Lord had
been crucified on Thursday afternoon, there would have been all day Friday
to complete the embalming. R2796:2, 2477:5
The Church, very early in its history, decided that the first day of the
week would be very appropriate to observe, since on it Jesus arose from
the dead, met with them and caused their hearts to burn as he expounded
unto them the Scriptures. R543:4; F383
Apparently fully one-half of his post-resurrection appearances were on the
day of the Lord's resurrection. NS322:6
Very early -- "God shall help her, and that right early." (Psa. 46:5)
R3375:3
In the morning -- Typifying the beginning of the seventh thousand-year
day, when the Church shall be raised. "Destroy this Temple, and in three
days I will raise it up." (John 2:19) R3375:1,3, 2795:2
They came -- Illustrating woman's love and tenderness, specially
endearing charms of the sex. R2477:5 The women lived in various parts of
the city and did not all arrive at the same hour. Mary Magdalene arrived
first. R2797:5, 2477:5
Joining the various accounts of the resurrection morning, a suggested
order of events is given. R4176:3
Bringing the spices -- For a more thorough embalming of the Lord's body
than was possible on the night of our Lord's burial, on account of the
lateness of the hour and the approach of the Passover. R3905:1
How great was the reward of these devoted women, last at the cross and
first at the sepulcher, anxious to bestow upon the lifeless remains of
their beloved Lord the last tokens of their esteem and love. R1816:6
Which they had prepared -- The seventh day closed at sundown, and we may
presume that immediately the preparation of spices began, and that all
arrangements were completed. R2795:6
Luke 24:2
The stone rolled away -- By the earthquake. R3905:1; B111
Luke 24:3
They entered in -- The other women, not including Mary Magdalene, who
had run with haste to make the matter known to Peter and John. R2477:3;
B112
The sentries had fled in terror from the manifestation of the angel's
presence. R3905:1, 2477:5
Luke 24:4
As they were much perplexed -- This is when Mary hastened to the home of
John, with whom Peter was lodging, and related the facts. R4176:3
Returning, she looked again into the sepulchre, and saw the two angels.
R4176:4
In shining garments -- So that they might not be understood to be men,
but might at once be recognized as heavenly messengers. R2797:6
Luke 24:6
necessary to establish in the minds of the disciples the fact of the
resurrection. Had he remained there it would have been an insurmountable
barrier to their faith. R1817:4
We incline to the opinion that the flesh, which was man's ransom-price,
will never see corruption, but that it will be preserved by divine power
as an everlasting testimony. R2478:6
He is no longer dead, but alive; no longer a man, but a spirit. R5579:1,
2081:2
Remember how he spake -- No doubt it was in order to better prepare them
for seeing Jesus that the angels appeared and drew attention to the fact
that Jesus had foretold his crucifixion, and also his resurrection on the
third day. R2795:6
Forgetting entirely the Master's words, they evidently had no expectation
of a resurrection. NS322:4; R2476:3
Luke 24:7
Third day rise again -- Having been dead portions of three 24-hour periods,
and not three full days and nights. R5191:6, 2796:2, 2271:3, 1289:6
He rose from the dead; he did not come back from paradise. Q523:6; F670
Luke 24:10
Mary Magdalene -- Not an unchaste woman, but a miracle of grace (Luke

8:2), from Magdala, on the sea of Galilee. Not only had she come from
Galilee to Judea, but she was near the cross at the time of his death and
the first at the tomb on the morning of the resurrection. R2797:5
Joanna -- The wife of Chuza, Herod's steward. R4176:3
Luke 24:11
Idle tales -- The majority of the disciples evidently regarded their

story as superstitious excitement, but Peter and John said, We will go and
see for ourselves. B112
Believed them not -- Even after hearing of his resurrection, they were
seemingly slow to connect it with what he had previously told them. R5415:6
Forgetting entirely the Master's words, they evidently had no expectation
of a resurrection. NS322:4
Luke 24:12
Ran unto -- Peter and John, the two most energetic apostles, vied with
each other to get to the sepulcher with speed. But they saw merely the
empty tomb. R5415:3
John, the younger, outran Peter and arrived there first. Awestricken, he
stooped down and looked in, but Peter, on arrival, still more courageous,
went in, followed by John. R4176:3, 2477:6
Luke 24:13
Two of them -- One of them apparently was Simon Peter (verse 34).
R2800:3, 2478:3
Not apostles (see verses 18, 33). R1823:2
That same day -- Our Lord instituted the observance of the first day of
the week, in the same manner that he instituted the Memorial Supper and
Baptism: by example, not command. R1942:3; Q608:T
Emmaus -- The home of Cleopas who would entertain Peter, whose home was
in Galilee. R2800:3
A suburban village. R2478:3
Threescore furlongs -- About eight miles distant. R2800:3
Luke 24:14
Talked together -- Discussing in animated conversation the likelihood

and unlikelihood of the reports they had heard, and in general the
Messianic hopes of themselves and their nation. R2800:6
Those who have opportunities for meeting together and speaking together,
and who fail to use the opportunities, are manifesting a lack of interest
in our great salvation. R2802:1
The solitary should look about them to see what provision the Lord has
made whereby at least two can meet and discuss his Word together, perhaps
through the regular visits of the Watch Tower. The written word is not
different from the spoken one. R2802:1
Luke 24:15
Jesus himself drew near -- His fourth appearance--on Sunday afternoon,

the day of the resurrection. R3905:3
The appearances were infrequent. In all the forty days the records would
not indicate that he appeared to them, at the very outside, more than ten
times, and his interviews with them would appear to have been very brief.
R2081:3, 1995:6; NS6:5, 32:5
The entire time that he was manifest to them would probably have been less
than twelve hours, or one eightieth of the entire time. B125
Being a spiritual body, it was simply a question of expediency which way
he could best appear to them--i.e., in which way his object in appearing
be best accomplished. B124; R262:2, 122:4
It is not possible for us to comprehend the power which can create and
dissolve human bodies, but we have abundant evidence along this line.
Did not the angels of old appear and then vanish? NS323:1
Went with them -- Illustrating our Lord's promise that where two or
three are together in his name, he will be in the midst. "Forget not the
assembling of yourselves." R2801:6, 1823:2
These forty days were very necessary for teaching the Jewish disciples,
and all of the Lord's followers since, two lessons: (1) that he was no
longer dead, but alive; and (2) that he was no longer a man, but a spirit.
R5579:1, 5417:4, 1996:1
Luke 24:16
Their eyes were holden -- Because in his resurrection Jesus was so

different, we are prepared to understand why he conducted himself so
differently after his resurrection from what he had done before. R5578:6
Not shocking them by a vision of his glorious presence as he smote down
Saul of Tarsus, but assuming a body of flesh and traveler's clothing and
talking sympathetically with the two sorrowing ones. NS795:4
Appearing in so many different forms to guard against the idea that he was
a fleshly body. R122:6
It was necessary that our Lord, a spirit being, should manifest himself as
a man. He must lead their minds step by step, and their thoughts link by
link, from the cross and the tomb to the appreciation of his present
exaltation as a spirit being. R2797:4
Although alive and the same person with the same individuality, yet now
his conditions were entirely altered. R2081:2; B111
If Jesus had revealed himself to his disciples after his resurrection as
the angel did to Daniel, the glory of the spiritual body would undoubtedly
have been more than they, as earthly beings, could bear. B124; R262:1
The body of flesh he had assumed as a garment for the occasion appeared as
a stranger to them. It was not the same body that was crucified; our
redemption price was not taken back; for Jesus said, "My flesh I will give
for the life of the world." (John 6:51) B123, 125, 127, 129, 131
In our Lord's appearances after his ressurection, it is not once intimated
that they knew him by the familiar features of his face. B125
Should not know him -- Even his clothing was different, for his previous
clothing had been parted amongst the soldiers. R5579:1, 5222:6, 2800:6
He did not appear in shining garments, but in ordinary apparel, assumed
for the purpose, in order that he might have the better opportunity for
giving the instructions which his followers needed. R2797:6
Had he borne the prints of the nails in his hands and his feet, they
surely would have noticed them during their long walk. R2801:5, 2478:4;
NS177:2
Luke 24:17
What manner of communication -- It is sometimes the part of wisdom not

to tell all that we know, if we can the better help others by inquiring of
them. R2801:1
And are sad -- Their sad and perplexed faces were indexes of their
minds. R1823:2
How favorable is a time of adversity and perplexity in which to approach
those whom we desire to assist, but how necessary, as the Master, to
approach with such sympathy in word and act as to gain the hearts of those
whom we would serve and bless. R2800:6
Luke 24:18
Name was Cleopas -- The other probably being Peter. R2800:3, 2478:3
Luke 24:19
Concerning Jesus -- This general review furnished the best foundation

for our Lord's exposition of the meaning of, and the reason for, the
things which perplexed them. R2801:1
Mighty in deed -- However much their confidence might have been shaken
respecting our Lord's Messiahship, they still believed in him as a great
Teacher. This good confession was all that could have been asked and quite
sufficient for our Lord to use in rebuilding their confidence in his
Messiahship on a surer and more positive foundation. R2801:1
Luke 24:20
Crucified him -- To the surprise of the typical people, Israel, instead

of assuming the office of Priest and King in conjunction, he merely died.
R5391:3
Luke 24:21
We trusted -- Notwithstanding the fact that Jesus had told them

repeatedly of his death, nevertheless his disciples seem to have been
unable to receive his words in their true meaning. R2745:5
Apparently their confidence in him had been misplaced. They failed to see
that the death of their leader was a surety for the New Covenant under
which the blessings were to come. However, when they found that he had
risen from the tomb, their withered hopes again began to revive. A80
They expected earthly glory, instead they saw suffering and death. It was
not merely this disappointment, but there must have been coupled with it a
terrible fear that he had deceived them, that they had loved and trusted
an imposter. R102:2*
Their hope that he was the Messiah had been crushed. R5416:3
Redeemed -- Greek, lutroo, to set free by payment of a price. They had
expected that the Lord would have set Israel at liberty from the Roman
yoke by the payment of a price. E431
Delivering them from the Roman yoke, and making of Israel the Kingdom of
God in power and glory. A274
That Israel should be exalted in the earth in name and fame and power and
authority to bless and to instruct "all the families of the earth." NS795:1
Not yet endued with the holy Spirit, they did not understand that not only
Israel, but the whole world, was redeemed, not only from the Roman yoke,
but from Satan's yoke, by the ransom price which our Lord gave. E431
Recovered, delivered. R2085:1
Israel -- They recognized no "lost" tribes, but a reunited Israel. C293;
R2085:2
The third day -- Here they were probably calling to mind John
2:19,21,22. B114
He had told them he would be crucified, "and the third day rise again."
(Matt. 20:19) R5415:6, 2745:5
Luke 24:25
Then he said -- While expedient to start the matter by questioning them,

it would not have been wisdom to have continued thus to any great length;
for he had the message and they needed the instruction. R2801:1
This gave Jesus the opportunity to explain that their experiences were
part of the divine plan. R5416:3
O fools -- O thoughtless, foolish men. R1393:2, 5416:3
Slow of heart -- These great lessons required time, and evidently the
forty-day period was none too long. NS655:5
To believe all -- They had been willing to believe something of what the
Prophets had spoken, the glorious things. NS795:5
We have no right to throw away any book of the Bible; even more, no right
to throw away any one word that he has commanded us to believe. R4230:5*
Luke 24:26
Ought not -- What else should be expected? Did he not foretell his own
death? And did he not foretell his own resurrection? NS795:5
"Was it not necessary?" R1393:4
Necessary because it was a feature of Jehovah's plan for human redemption,
and was so expressed by the prophets. R1393:3
If not "necessary" it would have proved: (1) that God is a changeable God;
(2) that either in the first or the second case he was unjust; and (3)
such a variable course would unsettle all confidence in God. R1393:5
Showing them that the very things which had so disheartened them were the
things which the prophets had foretold concerning the true Messiah. B114
According to the Scriptures. R1829:3
To have suffered -- Showing them from the Scriptures that his sacrifice
was needful first of all before the Kingdom could be established. A274
To be fitted for the priestly office to which he was called, Our Lord must
be proved beyond all peradventure. Through suffering he learned obedience
to the perfect will of God to the lowest depth of self-abnegation. And so
also we must suffer. R4767:3
The prophets have foretold the sufferings of The Christ, which has now
lasted for nearly nineteen hundred years. NS697:6
So St. Paul has declared in respect to all who will be Jesus' associates
in the Kingdom--they must suffer with him if they would reign with him,
they must be dead with him if they would live with him. (2 Tim. 2:12)
R5495:5
To develop and manifest that perfection of character worthy of his high
exaltation. R4767:3
These things -- Death. R5495:5
And -- We feel the necessity of a mighty deliverer as well as of a
loving redeemer. R1393:6
Both the humiliation and the exaltation meet our necessities. R1394:1
Enter into his glory -- There could have been no Kingdom glory without
the redemptive work. R2289:1
The full exaltation could not have been experienced until the sacrifice
had been not only made, but presented as well. R1829:3
He did suffer death, "the just for the unjust," and thus made atonement
for our sins. He did enter into his glory and is fully prepared to give
forth the vivifying blessing so much needed by the whole groaning
creation. R3234:3
The reward is two-fold: (1) personal exaltation to heavenly glory; (2) the
Kingdom glory, the joy of being divine agents for human restoration.
R5495:5
The Millennial glory--on the heavenly plane--the Head, and then his
foreknown Members. NS697:6
After giving the ransom, he was made alive again on the spiritual plane,
which he had previously left. R2081:2
"Became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross; wherefore God
also hath highly exalted him." (Phil. 2:8,9) R1829:3
Luke 24:27
Beginning at Moses -- Moses spoke of the sufferings of Christ in all the

arrangements of the Law and its sacrifices. R2659:3
Higher Critics and evolutionists, denying any special inspiration of Moses
and the prophets, ignore them and offer instead, as of superior value,
their own conjectures. R2801:2
Who gave the Law (John 7:19), not a fraud and deceiver who had palmed off
Hammurabi's law for a new divine code. R3177:4
We claim no infallibility but, after the manner of the great Teacher, we
seek to present to the minds of those interested the teachings of Moses
and the prophets, and to voice the testimony of Jesus and the apostles,
and to show the harmony of the Scriptures. R2802:2
All the prophets -- Who declared not only the coming glories, but also
the sufferings which must precede them. R2659:3
He expounded -- Showing their true meaning and fulfillment. R2801:2
We are not told what these expositions were which opened their eyes of
understanding, but we can surmise that he probably explained the
significance of the Passover lamb and of the antitypical Atonement Day.
R5587:2, 5416:4, 2801:3, 1394:2
Probably reminding them of how Isaac had been offered up by Abraham,
explaining that Abraham typified the heavenly Father and Isaac typified
himself. R5416:4, 2801:3, 1394:4
He doubtless told them about the smitten rock from which gushed the
waters, that that rock represented himself, who must be smitten in order
to give the water of life to the dying world. R5416:4
He doubtless told them how Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness,
and explained that the serpent represented sin; and that he, in being
crucified, was made to take the place of the sinner. R5416:4
Calling attention to the various Psalms, which prophetically spoke, not
only of his glorious reign, but also of his sufferings and death. R2801:3
Speaking of the utterances of Daniel, respecting Messiah being cut off in
death, but not for himself; and of Isaiah, that Messiah should be led as a
lamb to the slaughter. R2801:3, 1394:5
A wonderful sermon! It started new ideas and opened new expectations and
hopes. B114
The special light in both the Jewish and Gospel age harvests is for the
Israelites indeed. B27
In all the scriptures -- So we should not be content with offering our
views and opinions, but should search the Scriptures and should be able
from that source to give every man a reason for the hopes that are within
us. R2801:2
Luke 24:28
Would have gone further -- He then proceeded to the other prophets,

explaining the passages relating to the sufferings of Christ and the glory
that would follow. R5416:5, 2801:3
Luke 24:28
Unto the village -- In this long walk of eight miles they would
certainly have seen the prints of the nails in his hands and feet had he
appeared in the crucified body. R2801:5
Have gone further -- Unless especially invited to share their
hospitality, he would have gone on; this was no deception. F571; R5416:6,
2801:4
So it is still; he does not intrude upon his disciples. Rather, he
encourages us to recognize our need of him and to ask, that we may
receive, that our joy may be full. R5416:6
If our hearts fail to burn with responsive love and zeal and appreciation,
the blessing will pass from us and we will fail to reach the climax of joy
in a full recognition of who our Teacher has been. R2801:4
Luke 24:29
They constrained him -- We have every reason to suppose that if they had
not urged, he would not have stopped with them. R5416:6, 2801:4
He had ministered to them so much spiritual joy, they delighted to show
him every courtesy. R5416:6
When the Lord teaches us, if we do not constrain him to abide with us we
lose the chief blessing. R2801:4
Luke 24:30
Sat at meat -- He had materialized in the same way that he appeared to

Abraham. (Gen. 18:1,2) R5222:3, 3910:2, 2082:1, 1995:5
And blessed it -- Recognizing their new acquaintance as a great teacher
or prophet they requested that he should return thanks for their evening
meal. R2801:4
Certainly no one will claim they were then eating the Lord's Supper.
R839:6, 466:3
Luke 24:31
They knew him -- By the simple act of blessing and breaking bread in the
old familiar way. B115
Perhaps the language used in the blessing was such as they had heard him
use before or perhaps in some other way their understanding was opened.
R2801:5
If our candid, thoughtful endeavor is always to find the purest principles
and the exact truth to the end that we may conform our lives thereto, then
the Lord will be pleased to dwell with us and to manifest himself to us,
as he does not unto the world. R1823:6
This was on the first day of the week, and was one of the reasons for the
Early Church's observance of that day. F384
He vanished -- Greek, ginomai aphantos, became non-manifest, i.e.,
invisible. Strong's Exhaustive Concordance. R5222:6
He gave them an evidence of his resurrection and at the same time an
evidence of his change. NS322:5
He showed them by this vanishing that he was no longer the man Christ
Jesus, that he was changed, that the resurrected Jesus was a spirit being,
who could come and go like the wind, as he had explained to Nicodemus.
(John 3:8) R2801:5, 2455:3, 2081:3
Dissolved the flesh and bones and clothing in which he had manifested
himself to them. B127; R5579:1, 5417:1, 2478:5, 2455:3
Out of their sight -- Though doubtless he was still with them--invisibly
present. R5222:6
Luke 24:32
Heart burn within us -- In proportion as the heart burns within, as one

realizes the fulfillment of God's promises in the past, does one develop
faith in the fulfillment of those promises which relate to the future.
R5416:5
He talked with us -- Our hearts burn while he talks and we listen, more
than when we talk even with him. R2800:3
His expounding of the Scriptures had driven away their fears and enkindled
hope. R1787:1
Opened to us -- Our Lord, while dismissing the self-satisfied,
fault-finding quibbles of the Pharisees with dark or evasive answers, took
time and care in making truth clear and plain to the humble, earnest
seekers. B27
Luke 24:33
The same hour -- The news was too good to be kept, even until the next
morning. R2802:4
Their joy was too great to permit them to sleep. R5417:1
And returned -- How different their feelings as they set out in return
from those when they had left the brethren in Jerusalem, their hearts sad
and their mind full of questionings. Now they were full of joy. R2802:4
The eleven -- Except Thomas. The term "eleven" is used in a general
sense, and not in a particular sense, as referring to the apostles in
general and not the exact number. R2802:5
Gathered together -- In the upper room, the doors being shut for fear of
the Jews--barred, we may be sure. NS795:6
Luke 24:34
Appeared to Simon -- His third appearance after his resurrection. R3905:3

Alone near Jerusalem, or perhaps on the way to Emmaus. R2800:3
Luke 24:35
In breaking of bread -- No wonder they desired to meet together on the

first day of every week after that, to talk the matter over and to call to
mind the circumstances connected with this wonderful event of the Lord's
resurrection, and to have their hearts "burn" again and again. B115
Doubtless it was this experience that led subsequently to the custom of
the disciples having a meal in common on every first day of the week at
which they again in imagination recognized the Lord present in their
midst. R2802:5, 2771:4, 2265:6, 1942:3, 1787:1, 1421:2, 1382:4, 1014:2,
840:1, 466:3
The Church met every first-day of the week to celebrate the Lord's
resurrection, and united in a common meal in remembrance of the Lord's
first meeting with them, manifesting himself in the blessing and breaking
of bread. This has no reference to the Memorial supper. F384; R2932:1,
2771:4, 2265:6, 1942:3, 1382:4, 1014:2
They neither used wine, no less important than bread in the celebration of
the Lord's Supper, nor did they call it the Lord's Supper, nor observe it
with special solemnity, but rather with thankfulness and joy. R1014:2,
839:6, 466:3; F384
Luke 24:36
Stood in the midst -- Verses 36 to 53 present the fifth and eleventh

manifestations of the risen Messiah to his faithful apostles. R3910:1
Still further preparing the apostles, his chosen witnesses, to bear
reliable testimony to the whole Church. While he appeared to many other
disciples, he was specially careful to clearly establish the fact of his
resurrection to the apostles. R1522:4; F214
The manner chosen by our Lord for revealing himself was the most favorable
for the disciples. He wished to gain their attention, and to avoid
anything that would unnecessarily excite them, and hinder them from
learning the lessons which he wished to impart. R1995:3
As when the Lord and the angels appeared to Abraham, "He lifted up his
eyes and looked, and, lo, three men stood by him." He did not see them
coming, but, apparently, it was just there, at his side, they took on
visible form. HG29:4
When the doors were shut, "Where the disciples were assembled for fear of
the Jews." (John 20:19) B115
Peace be unto you -- Calming their fears and assuring them of his
resurrection. NS322:5
One of the Lord's last messages to his disciples before his crucifixion
was, "My peace I give unto you." (John 14:27) R2804:1
The spirit of peace is contagious amongst the Lord's people, even as the
spirit of anger is contagious in the flesh. R2804:1 24:37
Affrighted -- They were nervous, not only fearing apprehension by the
rulers, but perplexed by the day's incidents. R3910:2, 2478:3
Although the disciples had been informed concerning our Lord's
resurrection, they seem to have but imperfectly comprehended his words.
Our Lord foreknew this and chose the most favorable manner for manifesting
himself, and communicating to them the wonderful fact of his resurrection.
R1995:2
They had not yet learned the lesson that our Lord, in his resurrection,
was a spirit being and no longer a human being, and that like the angels
he now had power to appear and disappear. R2478:3
Seen a spirit -- What else could they think? How could any other come in
while the doors were shut? R3910:2
Although the Lord was put to death in the flesh, he was made alive in the
Spirit. (1 Pet. 3:18) R3910:2, 1995:6, 1416:2, 578:5
Luke 24:38
Why are ye troubled? -- The disciples did not know whether the object
before them had tangible flesh and bones like their own. They thought they
saw a phantom, and Jesus said this to inspire their confidence. Q595:6
Luke 24:39
Behold my hands -- Wishing to emphasize the identity of his risen self

with the crucified one. R2478:5, 2081:3
Nothing in this implies of necessity that the flesh which they saw was the
identical flesh which had hung on the cross. R2478:5
He was ready to give any demonstration that was necessary, because, unless
his disciples really believed in the resurrection, they could not do the
work that was before them, nor could they even receive the holy Spirit at
Pentecost. R5579:5
Only twice did he appear in a form similar to that which they had seen,
bearing the marks of his crucifixion. On both of these occasions he
appeared while the doors were shut, and later vanished while the doors
were still shut. R5417:4
I myself -- He was appearing in the flesh. To have appeared as a spirit
being would not have served his purpose as well. Paul fell down as dead
when he glimpsed our Lord's spiritual body. Suppose all the disciples had
fallen down as dead? What proof would that have been that it was Jesus?
Q669:1
A spirit hath not -- Impressing upon them that they were not seeing a
spirit body. They saw a materialized body. The Lord was a spirit all the
time, however, and the flesh and bones were merely agents of appearance.
R5222:5
But spirit beings had assumed flesh and bones as Jesus did, and had thus
appeared to men to deliver divine messages. R3910:2, 2082:4
But as to what a spiritual body is made of, we know not. "It doth not yet
appear what we shall be; but we shall be like him." (1 John 3:2) R578:5;
B128
"Flesh and blood cannot inherit the Kingdom of God." (1 Cor. 15:50) B128;
R5222:5
Flesh and bones -- He avoided the expression "flesh and blood," for that
would have meant, A spirit hath not human nature, as ye see me have; and
this would have been untrue, for he was changed and was no longer human
but highly exalted. R1856:6
As ye see me have -- Have, or to possess. R1856:6
What they saw was not spirit, but matter. This does not mean that our Lord
was not a spirit being at the time. It merely means what it says, that
what they saw was not spirit, and hence that they had no cause for
affright. R2478:4, 1995:5, 1952:3, 1856:6, 554:6*; PD70/85; NS177:3
The next instant he showed that he was now highly exalted and different
from flesh and blood, by dissolving the flesh and bones and clothes before
their eyes and vanishing out of their sight. R1416:4
The resurrected bodies of the Church are described in 1 Cor. 15:42-44, as
spiritual. So if our Redeemer has a scarred and fleshly body, while we
have glorious spirit bodies, the Body of Christ would eclipse the Head in
glory. R1952:5
Luke 24:42
Broiled fish -- And not a vegetable diet. R1855:6
Luke 24:43
And did eat -- Evidencing the fact that they were not being addressed by
an illusion, but by a corporeal being. NS795:6
The manifestations in the flesh during the forty days correspond exactly
to those manifestations which Jesus had made long previously, one of which
was to Abraham, who knew not the Lord but knew him only as a man. R5579:4,
2082:1, 1995:5; NS6:6, 32:6, 177:3
Spiritual beings will, when appearing under a veil of flesh, eat and drink
the food of men. HG29:3
Luke 24:44
Was yet with you -- While I was yet the man Christ Jesus, before my
resurrection change. R5587:2
Which was written -- Jesus does not refer to any pre-arranged plan
beyond that mentioned in the Holy Writings. All that is said upon the
subject of the foreknowledge of God seems to refer to that which was
written. R486:4*
In the law of Moses -- Doubtless showing them that the sacrifice of the
Law typified his own sacrifice, that natural Israel was not the Kingdom
class, and the work expected of them, but evidently not that the Gentiles
were to be fellow-heirs. R3910:6
In the prophets -- The signs of our Lord's second presence will be found
in harmony with, and corroborated by, the testimony of the prophets, as
was the case at the first advent. D598
Luke 24:45
Then -- These things could not properly have been given previously.
These truths would not have been meat in due season to the household of
faith earlier. R3910:5
The secret is that they were not previously prepared. Other lessons must
be learned before the deeper truths could be appreciated. R3910:5
Bible prophecies are rarely understood much in advance of their
fulfillment. This was so at the Lord's First Advent. Prophecies were
fulfilling on every hand, yet the disciples did not perceive them until
later. R5824:3
Opened he their understanding -- Their mental eyes. B116
Carrying with it the thought that these Scriptures had been closed
previously. R3130:3
Not that our Lord worked some miracle upon the minds of his followers to
open their understanding; rather he operated upon them as he still
operates in giving instruction, using natural means and reasoning with
them. R3910:5
The special theme of the Master in the instruction of the forty days was
"the things pertaining to the kingdom of God." (Acts 1:3) R1415:3
Moses rehearsed all the words of the Law unto the people; the Prophet like
unto Moses not only rehearses the Law, but opens the minds and hearts of
the people to receive it. Moses carried the Law to the people in his
hands; Christ carries the Law to the people in his heart. R1322:4*
The word "opened" carries with it the thought that these Scriptures had
been closed previously. R3130:3
Today, as one by one the Lord's people are ready for it, he is pleased to
give them more light of "Present Truth." (2 Pet. 1:12) R3910:5
Understand the scriptures -- While removing the natural obstacles to
faith by assuming human form, our Lord convinced the disciples, and made
them witnesses to others, not by their natural sight and touch, but by
reasoning with them out of the Scriptures. B123
His words served as a Bible Key, bringing order out of their previous
confusion. The fact that the Scriptures are so written that they cannot be
understood without divine assistance is incomprehensible to the world.
R3910:3
Luke 24:46
Thus it is written -- The signs of our Lord's second presence are in

accordance with the testimony of the prophets, as was the case at the
first advent. D598
It behoved Christ to suffer -- There could be no resurrection without
the ransom sacrifice first being given. R3706:6
As Aaron's priesthood did not typify the glory of the Kingdom, so Christ
must suffer to enter into his glory as the Melchizedek Priest. SM143:3
The third day -- Not three days later, but on the third day, in
fulfillment of the antitype of the barley sheaf of first-fruits. (Lev. 23)
R5191:3,2
The phrase used by Jesus in Matt. 12:40, "three days and three nights," is
purely idiomatic and implied that he would be in the heart of the earth
"till the third day." (See Esth. 4:16; 5:1; Gen. 42:17,18; 2 Chron.
10:5,12) R3574:5*, 2796:2, 2271:3, 1289:6
Luke 24:47
Repentance -- As the Gospel was not intended to convert all the Jews,
but only to take from the a remnant, so likewise it was intended to take
from the Gentiles only a remnant, that the entire company is properly
termed a "little flock." R3005:1
Sowing, rather than harvesting. R885:2*
Remission of sins -- This was never preached before, because, until
then, our ransom price had not been paid. R387:3
Should be preached -- The commission is not to make the nations
disciples, but to gather out of all nations those willing to be disciples
of Christ. R5588:2
In his name -- God never gave power to bishops, priests or ministers of
any denomination to forgive sins. Nor did Jesus give authority to his
apostles to forgive sins. They might preach forgiveness, but only in his
name. SM466:1; HG737:5
Among all nations -- The commission meant merely that they were no
longer restricted to the Jews in preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom.
R3004:6
The apostles evidently did not at first comprehend the scope of this
commission. They were ready enough to begin at Jerusalem, extend the work
throughout Judea and preach to the Samaritans, but it required very
special instructions for Peter to preach to the Gentiles also. R3005:1
At the present time at least a cursory knowledge of the facts upon which
the Lord's message is based obtains throughout the habitable world,
implying that the witnessing time has about expired. R2925:1
Since America, for instance, could not be reached during the life-time of
the apostles, it is manifest that the major part of this witnessing was to
be done through their writings and after their death. R1522:3
Where none but Israelites indeed would care to follow the defamed and
executed Jesus. R2925:1
Continuing among the Jews until the full end of the 70 weeks of favor.
(Dan. 9:24) C170
To the Jew first, and afterward to the Gentiles. (Acts 13:46, Rom. 2:9,10)
C170; R1846:2
Beginning at Jerusalem -- To fulfill the promise of God to their
fathers, that his special favor should be to them first--"to the Jew
first, and afterward to the Gentile." R1846:2*
The witnessing properly began at Jerusalem, the center of Judaism, which
God himself had chosen, represented in the Temple. R2924:6
The gospel was not preached to any Gentile for some time after Pentecost,
Cornelius being the first convert. This was because Dan. 9:24 predicted
seventy weeks (490 years) set apart by God in which special favor would be
extended to fleshly Israel as a people. R189:5
The only pre-eminence given to Hebrews under the Gospel call is that it
commenced with them. The previous call was confined to them. R1457:5
But not ending there. R3911:1
He knew well that their Jewish ideas would hinder them from going beyond
the Jews until he should in due time open the way, as he did at the end of
their favor, by sending Peter to Cornelius. C170
Luke 24:48
Ye are witnesses -- Witnesses upon whom the people could rely as having
been with him from the beginning of his ministry, and therefore manifestly
acquainted with his doctrine and purpose. R1521:6
His representatives, representatives of his character, his teachings and
his work. R2818:4
To call and make ready a people to receive me, when I shall come to be
glorified in my saints, and to reign as King of kings. B120
The selection of the twelve at the time it took place, instead of waiting
until Pentecost, was, in large measure, for the purpose of permitting them
to behold his works and hear his message that they might in due time be
witnesses to declare the wonderful works of God and the wonderful words of
life manifested through Jesus. F211
To the fact of his resurrection. Their testimony would be a sure
foundation for the faith of coming generations. B123
They were to be his witnesses to bear testimony of him after his death.
R1521:6
Through their writings. R1522:6
Of these things -- Not merely the virgin birth, the holy and devoted
life, Calvary's cross, our Lord's resurrection and ascension, but that he
was a properly qualified Redeemer, meeting the conditions of the Law, and
now ever living to succor those coming to the Father through him. R3911:3
Luke 24:49
The promise of my Father -- The holy Spirit had been promised and must
be waited for as the realization and beginning of the new work, the
development of the Christian Church. R4305:3
Our Lord Jesus, in all matters, acts as the representative of the Father,
Jehovah, in the work of salvation. E35
The Father had promised in various types that the Church would receive the
holy Spirit from Jesus, their Head. For instance, the holy oil, poured
upon the head of Aaron, representing Jesus, flowed down upon his body, the
Church. R5587:3
A measure of the holy Spirit had been on the apostles during our Lord's
ministry, but the power under which they then operated was not from the
Father direct, but was imparted to them by our Lord Jesus. NS201:3
But tarry ye -- They probably knew not how long the tarrying would be.
NS201:2
Necessary for the development of the apostles in faith and trust. R2926:4
The record is that the apostles did tarry at Jerusalem until they received
the Pentecostal blessing. R3911:2
A general trouble amongst those teaching in the name of the Lord has been
that they did not tarry until endued with the holy Spirit, but recklessly
pressed into their ministry without this credential of divine
authorization. R3911:2
No one is desired as God's witness until he has made full consecration to
the Lord and been begotten of the Spirit, no matter how great his natural
abilities may be. R2925:4
Until ye be endued -- Assuring them of divine acceptance, and qualifying
them for divine service. NS348:1
The sending of the holy Spirit at Pentecost became a witness of God's
acceptance of our Lord Jesus' sacrifice, and thus a sign of the acceptance
of the Church and household of faith. R3911:1
Implying their unfitness for the work as natural men. R2925:3
None except those thus endued with power from on high are qualified to be
ambassadors for God and his representatives before men. R3911:2, 2925:5
The Lord's sheep should be careful to select as leaders only such as give
evidence of having come under the influence of the holy anointing of the
Spirit of God, no matter how much natural ability the would-be leader may
possess. R2925:4
Work not done under the guidance of the holy Spirit is sure to be
defective and in some respects evil, and to result in evil fruitage.
R3911:2
The Father's purposing of this soon giving of the spirit made it possible
for the disciples and Judas to be new creatures, passing from death to
life, in a tentative form. R5684:1
While that hope has reached fruition, other hopes have taken its place. In
our case, we are waiting for our adoption, to wit, the deliverance of our
body--the body of Christ. R2926:5
With power -- This promised power to know and to understand times and
seasons, and all things pertaining to a proper witnessing, applies to the
whole Church. B120
Luke 24:50
He led them out -- The eleven were the chosen witnesses of the Lord's
ascension, and there is no evidence of the presence of any others on that
occasion. R1522:5
Talking the while, explaining the things that would be to their advantage
to know. R5589:2
On the occasion of his eleventh appearance after his resurrection. R3905:5
To Bethany -- This was at the Mount of Olives. R3905:5, 3911:3
And blessed them -- And he shall so come (with a blessing) as they saw
him go. B154
Luke 24:51
Parted from them -- Quietly and secretly, consistent with his purpose of
having thoroughly convinced witnesses of the fact. None saw him, or knew
of the fact, except his faithful followers. B154
"I go to prepare a place for you, and if I go and prepare a place for you,
I will come again and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye
may be also." (John 14:2,3) R1828:3; B120
His going was expedient for himself, and for us, too, indirectly, as
illustrated in the parable of the young nobleman going into a far country
to receive for himself a Kingdom and to return. (Luke 19:12) R1829:3
Carried up into heaven -- Corresponding to the act of the high priest
Aaron, in entering the most holy with the blood of the atonement sacrifice
and presenting it before the mercy seat together with the sweet incense,
which represented the human perfection of Christ. R1828:3
The ascension of our Lord to the right hand of power signifies his ability
now to "give gifts unto men." (Eph. 4:8) R1829:5
Our Lord's ascension was a spectacular one, so far as his Church was
concerned, but not in respect to the world. R5589:5
"What and if ye shall see the Son of Man ascend up where he was before?"
(John 6:62) R5589:5, 5588:3
The eleven appearances of Jesus after his resurrection were: (1) Sunday
morning to Mary Magdalene (John 20:11-18); (2) Sunday morning to the women
returning from the sepulchre (Matt. 28:9-10); (3) Sunday to Simon Peter
alone (Luke 24:34); (4) Sunday afternoon to the two disciples going to
Emmaus (Luke 24:13-31); (5) Sunday evening to the apostles, excepting
Thomas (John 20:19-25); (6) Sunday evening, a week later, to the apostles,
Thomas being present (John 20:26-29); (7) probably three weeks later to
the apostles on the shores of Galilee (John 21:1-13); (8) shortly
afterward to the eleven on a mountain in Galilee (Matt. 28:16-20); (9)
shortly afterward to "above 500 brethren" in Galilee (1 Cor. 15:6); (10)
at the close of the 40 days to James (1 Cor. 15:7); (11) at his ascension
to all the apostles (Luke 24:50,51; Acts 1:6-9). R3905:3-5
Our Lord's ascension was simply another way of disappearing. R2818:5
The body in which he had just appeared was dissolved or dematerialized.
R5589:5
So that they might have before their minds the thought that he was gone,
that they were not to expect him to appear and disappear in the future, as
he had done during these forty days. R3911:4, 2818:6
Luke 24:52
Worshipped him -- They recognized his greatness, dignity and honor as

Messiah, the Son of God, Redeemer of the world. R3911:6
Returned to Jerusalem -- Comforted and blessed, not only by the hope of
his return, but also by the promise of the Comforter, as a token of his
love and of the Father's favor, not many days after. R1829:6
Luke 24:53
Continually -- Regularly. R3912:1

In the temple -- All the members of Christ's Body are represented as
abiding in the Temple, the Tabernacle, the Holy. R3912:4
John
General
John's Gospel was written after the other three, and quite evidently with
a view to setting forth matters not set forth in the other Gospels. Thus
we find that it does not attempt to give a full history of the Lord's
ministry in all particulars, but chiefly deals with matters omitted or
with details not given by the others. R3481:3, 4l22:3; OM329:3
John evidently recollected matters which, in whole or in part, had been

overlooked by the others, and his Gospel sets forth some very interesting
incidents and prayers and discourses, whose omission would have been a
serious loss to us. Thus we see how God operates in various ways to
accomplish his purpose. He could have miraculously used any one of the
Evangelists to give the full and detailed account, but he chose rather to
allow each to state himself in his own manner, and to supply the details
in four narratives, in preference to one. R2435:2
St. John was naturally loving, gentle and meek; and that very disposition
would make it difficult for him to sever the many ties of human friendship
which such dispositions always draw about them. Yet he was faithful to his
Master, regardless of human ties. He was a patient, faithful teacher of
the doctrines of Christ, and willingly suffered banishment to the lonely
isles of Patmos for his faithful witnessing to the truth. Similar was the
course of all the apostles. They were bold, faithful advocates of the
truth, and examples of its power to sanctify them wholly, as they
gradually grew in grace submitting themselves to its transforming
influence. They were men of similar and varied dispositions like
ourselves. R1041:4
See also "THE FOUR GOSPELS--GENERAL."

John 1
John 1:1
In the beginning -- The beginning of God's creation, when Christ as a

spirit being became "the first born of every creature." R4098:1
The Lord's beginning, when Jehovah created him. Q41:1
He was not with the Father before the beginning of creation, for he
himself was "the beginning of the creation of God." SM483:3
Genesis goes back to the beginning of things earthly; but this goes back
to the beginning of all beginnings, when God was alone--"the beginning of
the creation of God." (Rev. 3:14) R5351:3, 3474:2; F18
Before anything was created, and when none existed but Jehovah. R338:1
Long before man was created, or our earth was brought from its chaotic
condition, long before angels and cherubim were created, divine power
brought forth a Son on the spirit plane. SM491:2
Not Jehovah's beginning, for he had no beginning; but the world's
beginning, or man's beginning. E86; F18; R5748:1, 3474:2, 1060:5; NS257:2
While Jesus was born of a woman, this was not the beginning of his
existence. NS751:2
The word "beginning" is rather an indefinite word. It is difficult to
imagine Jehovah without a beginning because we have finite minds. Q40:6,
360:4
Was -- The Logos, the Word, existed with God in the beginning of earth's
creation, as mentioned in Genesis. R2408:1
He was both the first created and the first or highest in rank. R1063:6*
The Word -- The Logos. R5748:1, 5768:1, 5352:1, 4964:3, 2408:5; CR290:1,
195:6
The Greek word logos would be properly translated by the words intention,
plan, purpose, or expression. R338:1, 2408:1
Greek, Logos, signifies mouthpiece or special messenger. R5351:3; Q377:6
The name of Jesus before he became flesh. CR290:1
As the mouthpiece of Jehovah, he was commissioned not only to redeem the
world, but to uplift it out of sin and to restore the willing and obedient
to all that was lost in Adam. SM51:1
His name, the Logos, signifies the Divine Message or Messenger, the One
through whom Jehovah's utterances and decrees went forth. HG661:6
Dr. Adam Clark says, "This term (Logos) should be left untranslated, for
the very same reasons why the names Jesus and Christ are left
untranslated." E85; R1514:3
It is said that in olden times kings, when addressing multitudes, sat
behind a screen, while in front of this stood the king's interpreter or
representative, who spoke the king's words in a loud tone to be heard by
all who were there. E85; R4964:2, 4107:3, 3474:3, 338:3; PD54/67; CR195:5,
247:2
Our Lord, before he came into the world, before the world was made by him
as the Father's agent, was the Logos. R4165:2
More literally, "the Expression," a full and complete expression of the
divine will, mind, purpose, character. R2408:1; SM491:3
Jehovah's Prime Minister. R1125:3; HG292:4
The "messenger" at the burning bush (Ex. 3:2). But the highest and most
honored messenger should not be confounded with the One whom he represents
and in whose name he speaks and whose power he exercises. E43
One of our Lord's titles. (Rev. 19:13) R1060:5
The same evangelist, in his epistle, uses the same title in respect to our
Lord again, denominating him the Word of life, or the Logos of life. (1
John 1:1) E85
Plan, intention or purpose of God. God had a well defined and matured plan
in his mind before it found expression in the slightest development. R338:1
Primarily the word refers to the plan of God, and it is afterwards applied
to the messenger of that plan, the Son of God. R338:3
The Old Testament writings are God's written Word, and could not be fully
understood until God's living Word, Jesus Christ, came and stood beside
them, showing their signification. R444:4*
Christ, in every stage, is called the Word. Here, in his pre-human
existent state; in verse 14 of the first advent; and in Rev. 19:13 in his
future glory. R21:2*
We are confident that it was he who was the special messenger of Jehovah
to Abraham in Genesis 18. R3946:3
A position aspired to by Satan. R1686:2
Was with God -- Was with the God. CR195:6; R5768:1, 5748:1, 5352:1,
4964:3
The God; the Greek emphasizes the word here rendered God. R1060:5, 2408:5
The Greek prepositive article is sometimes used so as to give the effect
of the God in contrast with a God. E70
Here we see most clearly and beautifully the close relationship existing
in the very remote past between the heavenly Father and the heavenly Son.
R3474:5
Introducing us to our Redeemer in his pre-human condition, a spirit
condition, higher than the angels. R2408:3, 5768:1; Q363:1
Scholars are well aware that the word that is translated God in the Old
Testament is not equivalent to the word Jehovah. Although its significance
is mighty one, it is frequently used for others beside the All-mighty,
Jehovah. It is used for angels, great men and false gods. In the New
Testament, the word theos is equivalent to elohim, and signifies mighty
one. R2408:4
This makes two--the Word, and the God whom he was with, or represented.
R4107:1
And the Word -- Jesus is here called the Word because Jehovah reveals
his word, plan or purpose, through him. R338:3
Was God -- Not contradicting the previous statement, but the distinction
is considerably lost in the translation. The Greek article does not appear
before the word translated God, and hence the thought in the statement is
a god, as in contrast with the previous statement, the God. R3474:5
Accurately translated, it reads, the Logos was a god. R5352:1, 5768:1,
5748:1, 5352:1, 4964:3; CR195:6
Although the KJV is not a bad translation, it fails to give to the English
reading the force and significance of the Greek--"In the beginning was the
Word, and the Word was with the God, and the Word was a god; the same was
in the beginning with the God." E86; R4107:1 3474:6, 1514:3; HG661:6;
OV114:3; PD54/67; SM497:3, 491:1; NS255:6
We do not claim originality as to the proper translation of this verse.
Our attention was called to it by the Diaglott, an interlinary
word-for-word Greek and English New Testament in general use and of high
repute. R3076:2
In the Diaglott, "the" represents the article in the Greek text, while "a"
shows that the article is lacking. R1514:3
The Greek article ho precedes the first word "God" in this verse, and does
not precede the second word "God," thus intentionally indicating God the
Father and God the Son in a case where, without the article, the reader
would be left in confusion. E86
A God, a mighty one, superior to the angels. R4165:3
This translation can be verified by consulting any Greek Testament or any
Greek scholar. R1514:3, 2408:5
Professor W. G. Moorehead (whose article on R3075 contradicts the
Diaglott) acknowledges that the article "the" must be omitted in order to
show that Christ is not the God but a God. R3076:4
"To us there is but one God" (1 Cor. 8:6) is not out of accord with the
record that Jesus was a god with the God, because the name Jehovah was
never permitted to any but the Father supreme, while the title "God"
(Hebrew, elohim) might be applied to any mighty one in authority and
power, Jehovah himself being superior to all elohim. NS255:6
The word god signifies mighty one, and is used not only respecting the
Father, but also the Son, and also in reference to angels, and in one
instance to men, influential men, the 70 elders of Israel whom Moses
appointed. R3474:6
"God" is a translation of each of four Hebrew words--el, elah, elohim and
adonai, all signifying the mighty, or great. It is a general name. R338:2;
SM497:1
With the proper conception of the meaning of the word God, as used in the
Scriptures, namely, a mighty, a powerful being, we see the propriety of
applying the name to the Logos. R1060:4
He is distinctly shown to be the Son and not the Father--to be a God and
not the God. R5352:1
While the Father was the God above all others, the Son, the Logos, was a
God above all others, next to the Father but subservient to the Father.
R3861:5
This subservience and dependence upon the Father was true of our Lord not
only while he was in the flesh and before he was made flesh, but is
distinctly asserted of him since his resurrection. (1 Cor. 15:28) R3861:5
The word god signifies mighty one; but there is only one God whose name is
the Almighty. R5352:1
As the pendulum swinging from one extreme to the other, so are the
conceptions of Christians respecting our Lord--one extreme declares him
simply a good man, while the opposite assumes that he was the Father.
R4106:2
The Almighty did not inquire of the angels whether or not they would
accept the glorified Jesus as their Lord; he autocratically elevated our
Lord Jesus. In his prehuman condition, our Lord Jesus was from the
beginning the head, the chief of all the Father's creatures, works and
"All men should honor the Son, even as they honor the Father." (John 5:23)
They should not honor the Son instead of the Father, however. SM498:2
Our Lord Jesus is a mighty one, a great one amongst the mighty ones, and
as our Lord himself declares, all should "honor the Son even as they honor
the Father." (John 5:22) R2726:1
John 1:2
In the beginning -- Of creation, himself the first creation. R1060:5,

338:3
"The beginning of the creation of God." (Rev. 3:14) E87
Before the creation of others. R3474:6
Not only was the Logos the beginning, or Alpha; he was also the last, the
Omega, of divine creation. (Rev. 1:11; 21:6) R5351:3, 5064:1
When we consider the length of time that must have elapsed during the
creation, we may have some idea of our Lord's intimate and long
acquaintance with Jehovah and his plans. No marvel, then, that Jesus said,
"No man knoweth the Son but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father
save the Son." R1060:1; HG292:3
The one who had known God's character longer, more fully and more
intimately than any other being. R1125:3
With God -- With the God. R5768:1, 5352:1; CR195:6
Therefore they were two, and not one in person. R3474:6
John 1:3
All things -- Angels, worlds, mankind--all things. R3475:1

Angels, principalities and powers, cherubim and seraphim, as well as man,
were all the direct creation of the Logos, though not by his own power.
R5372:1, 5351:6
Not one of whom was like himself--the direct creation of Jehovah. SM492:T
Made by him -- He it is who in all things has the pre-eminence in
Jehovah's plan and work. E86; R1278:3 Not only showing his intimate
acquaintance with Jehovah and knowledge of his plans, but exhibiting him
as his honored agent in their accomplishment. R1059:6
Not that the Son was superior to the Father, that the Father had created
nothing because of lack of ability to create, but that the Father was
pleased to use this particular channel in his great work. R3475:1
The Father is the Creator, although all things were made by the Son, as
the Father's agent. R4085:3, 5135:3, 4964:2, 4085:3, 2199:5, 1904:5, 338:3
Our Father is the first cause of all things. R369:3
All things are of the Father, all things are by the Son. (1 Cor. 8:6) The
power was of the Father, but it was exercised through the Son, the
beginning of his creation, and hence "without him was not anything made
that was made." R4107:3
By the Father's energy or spirit; yet that energy was exercised through
his Son. R370:4
The same point is emphasized by the plural form of the pronoun in Gen.
1:26--"We will make man in our image, after our likeness." R1609:3 SM497:1
God not only began the work, but he also completed it, through his Son,
his agent in all things. R1266:1
Jesus was the direct creator of all things. He was the divine power,
agent, work, messenger, the Logos of Jehovah. R4964:3; CR247:2, 195:6
As it pleased the Father to create all things through the Son, so in all
things it has pleased him to exalt our Lord Jesus as his honored
instrument. F397
We find him also the agent in the development and perfection of all
things. It was Jehovah's powers delegated to the Son, and it was Jehovah's
glorious plan which he delighted to accomplish. R919:3 F65
Already he had been used of the Father as his special agent in the
creation of angels and men when the Father proposed to him that he should
become man's Redeemer. NS83:4
Whether we contemplate the vastness and grandeur of the physical universe,
or the innumerable host of intelligent creatures he brought into
existence, we are overwhelmed with a sense of the glory that he had with
the Father. R1247:2
The Only Begotten of the Father, the beginning of the creation of God, was
the superintendent of the various affairs connected with the creation of
the earth and its inhabitants. R3921:4
Jehovah's chief and honored, intelligent and active agent in creation, the
Almighty entrusted with the work of redeeming and restoring mankind.
R1125:3
While he joyfully worked out the grand plan of creation, he probably knew
nothing of God's purpose for the subsequent permission of evil and the
necessity for the great work of redemption. R3160:3
Without him -- No suggestion that the Father is the Son, and that the
Son is his own Father, but that there are two persons, both Gods, both
Creators, but the one the superior, the other his honored representative.
R3475:1
Jehovah is the Creator of all things; yet he does this by proxy through
him who was "the beginning of the creation of God." R2426:6
The key is in the oneness of purpose and of work between the Father and
the Son--"I and my Father are one." (John 10:30) R2431:4
Not anything made -- Other Scriptures defeat the argument that if he
made all things, therefore he was not made, and that if not made then he
must be an uncreated or self-existent God. R1063:5*
John 1:4
In him was life -- Absolute life, perfect life, because his life had not
come from Adam through an earthly father, but was directly transferred
from his pre-human state or condition to the womb of Mary. R3475:2
Jesus was the only one who had life. PT381:T*
Perfection of life. R3885:6
Implying that he did not receive his life, as did other men, from an
earthly father. It was because Jesus had life in this special sense that
he could be the Redeemer of men. R4154:3, 4107:4, 3475:2
Our Lord's separateness from the human family is thus pointed out; in no
other man than "the man Christ Jesus" was there life. R2408:6
Is there not life in every man? No! From the divine standpoint, a death
sentence passed upon Adam and was inherited by all his descendants. R4154:3
Not a deathless life, which could not die, but life everlasting, so that
he would not die, had he not laid down his life. R677:1*
Father Adam once had life, but he lost it through disobedience in Eden.
R3475:2
This text has a special application to the new creature--"In him was
life," the new life, life as a new creature, partaker of the divine
nature. R4155:1
When he was immersed in the symbolism of death, he received of the Father
a begetting of the holy Spirit--he was begotten to a newness of life, to a
spirit life. R4155:1
In the Son of God--the Word--Jesus, from 30 years of age, was the divine
life which he never before possessed. R338:4
"As the Father hath life in himself, so he has given unto the Son to have
life in himself." (John 5:26) R4155:1
Even Jesus did not possess this wonderful kind of life, immortality, this
essentially divine quality, until after his resurrection from the dead.
R1642:1
The life was -- Christ is the judgment of the world because he is its
love, and he is its love because he is its light, and he is its light
because he is its life. R1329:2*
Light of men -- Light is here used in a figurative sense, signifying
hope, intelligence, instruction. R3475:6
Everywhere throughout the Scripture light is used to represent God, his
truth, his righteousness, his servants and their messages. SM240:2
This life constituted the light amongst men. They perceived that he was a
remarkable character--"Never man spake like this man." "They marveled at
the gracious words that proceeded out of his mouth." (John 7:46; Luke
4:22) R4107:4
The life that was in him, the perfection of manhood that was in him, was
the light of men in his day. R4155:3
The power of the holy Spirit in our Lord Jesus, shining in perfect accord
with his perfect flesh, was indeed the light of men, not only reflecting
the divine character in his doings and words, but enabling him to speak to
his followers the wonderful words of life. R4155:4 To know God we must
gain knowledge of him, and knowledge is assured belief, enlightenment,
acquaintance with or understanding of God, his plans and purposes as
revealed in Christ. R493:1*
Not only through his recorded discourses and instructions, but also
through the lives of his disciples, and that in proportion as they were
and are truly his. R3475:3
Having bought us with his blood, he became the light-giver, hope-giver.
R2408:6
John 1:5
In darkness -- Darkness is the synonym for Satan, the Prince of

Darkness, and all the deluded followers, the children of darkness, and the
wickedness with which he is identified, the works of darkness. SM240:2
It is the nature of light to scatter darkness. SM241:T
The darkness -- Darkness was not confined to the ignorant then, nor is
it today. Indeed, the powers of darkness are greatest in the more
influential and the better educated. SM241:1
Comprehended it not -- They did not arise and shine (Isa. 60:1), and
therefore darkness came upon them; and as a nation, blinded to their
highest interests, they stumbled into the complete wreck of their national
polity. R2036:1
It is still true that the darkened class comprehend not. "The god of this
world hath blinded the minds of them that believe not." (2 Cor. 4:4)
R4107:4 3475:3
Some of the world are asleep, others are awake to worldly aims, ambitions,
schemes, but thoroughly blind to the divine purposes. R4444:3
Notwithstanding the faithfulness of Jesus and the few light-bearers
enlightened with the holy Spirit of which they are begotten, still
"darkness covers the earth and gross darkness the heathen." (Isa. 60:2)
R4987:6
Even Christians, the Apostle intimates, see only in part, but may see
increasingly in proportion as they come into line and accord with the
divine plan respecting them. R3475:4
As they would consider his perfection and how, as represented in him, the
light shined in darkness and was not appreciated, so they would expect
that the light shining from them would not be appreciated either. R3313:5
John 1:7
For a witness -- Six months prior to the Jewish harvest there was a
message to make manifest to Israel the coming of Messiah; six months
before the Gospel harvest the jubilee arguments came out to make manifest
to "the Israel" the coming of Messiah the second time. HG71:6
That all men -- Only a minority have yet seen this light. R2409:1
John 1:8
Not that Light -- Greek, phos. Also used with respect to the Church,
which is the body of Christ, and with her Lord, partaker of the holy
Spirit. R2409:2
The Apostle carefully distinguishes between the messenger of the light and
the Light itself. Subsequently (John 5:35), when speaking of John (the
Baptist) as a burning and shining lamp, a totally different Greek word is
used. R2409:2
John was particular not to take any honor in respect to these matters to
himself, but declared plainly that his mission was to introduce the
Messiah. R3475:5
Was sent -- Neither John nor Jesus could begin a public service until
thirty years of age, since this was one feature of the law, but John,
being six months the elder, was thus privileged to begin his ministry six
months in advance of our Lord. R2417:1
John 1:9
The true Light -- Anti-typical, real, genuine; not counterfeit or

typical. R2409:1
Whose mission it was to reveal, to make known, the Father's love. R3475:5
Implying that there are false, or imitation lights. Of these we know that
there are many--lights of heathendom and lights of Christendom. R4988:3,
3197:4
In the end of the age. R2319:5
He has not yet been the Light of the world, but merely a light to his
people. R5352:5
Jesus was the great light which came into the world, and his followers
were to be lights or candles also. R4558:5
The Savior and his Church in glory will be the great Sun of Righteousness
which will arise over the earth, and shine forth for the healing of the
people. R4988:4, 4967:6, 4677:2, 4107:6, 3686:4, 2573:6, 2550:3, 1645:4,
1311:5, 244:1*; HG353:4; SM244:1, 560:3; NS860:1
Which will shine forth for the blessing of mankind, to bring order out of
present confusion, to scatter present darkness, ignorance and
superstition, to cause the knowledge of the glory of God to fill the whole
earth. R3770:6, 5008:1
Shining in its strength from the exalted divine Christ, head and body.
R338:5
"The light that shines in the face of Jesus Christ." (2 Cor. 4:6) D238
The Morning Star. (Rev. 22:16) R1063:3* 390:4*
When he who was lifted up at Calvary, and afterward lifted up in
resurrection power, will be manifested in power and great glory. R5316:4
The light was not prior to Jesus Christ, for we read that he is the light.
This wisdom was first promulgated by our Lord. Q66:1; R5105:5, 5544:3,
4967:6; SM249:2
We may walk in the light for we are in the presence of the "true light."
R159:4*
Bartholdi's Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World is true to the facts,
but whatever blessing there is in the light which shines from Liberty's
torch is the light of the Gospel. NS666:1
Which lighteth -- Ultimately. R3686:4, 1711:2
When the clouds and darkness of error shall pass away, and the clear light
of truth shall shine forth, and the glory of the Lord be revealed, and all
flesh see it together. (Isa. 40:2; 11:9; 60:5) HG272:6
Not only to redeem man's life, but also to enlighten him and to restore as
many as may be willing to accept sonship. This work has not yet been
He engaged not only to save man from death by a Ransom, but to bring man
to the knowledge of that truth. (1 Tim. 2:4) R77:3*
The same wisdom which instructed his disciples guides men back to the
Father, instructs them as to what discipleship means, makes them wise in
order that they may take the steps by which discipleship is to be gained.
R5105:5
"What think ye of Christ?" With the question and with the light that makes
possible an answer to the question comes a responsibility which none may
shirk. R3788:5
None will dispute that this light is the truth, the knowledge of God's
plan; yet it must be evident to all that thus far only few have seen it.
R1311:4
As the vast majority of our race, heathen and imbecile, have not yet been
enlightened, they cannot have committed mortal sin, and hence are not
under sentence of the second death. R1984:6
Every man -- Every man ever born into the world. R331:5
A prophetic statement, for our Lord at his first advent did not even
enlighten all of his own nation, and made no attempt whatever to enlighten
the world of mankind. R4107:5, 2550:3; SM240:2
Our dear Redeemer is not only the Redeemer of the Church and the light of
the Church, but the Redeemer of the world, and the light of the world.
R3475:6
This includes all the heathen and all those of imbecile mind, who could
not in this life grasp the truth, as well as all infants who have died
before reaching the age where they could know of God and his truth in
Christ. R5575:5, 5352:5
Including the nation of Canaan. R5336:4
All were included in unbelief and blindness, that God might have mercy
upon all and recover every one of them from that blindness and bring every
one of them to that full, clear knowledge which will render every man
without excuse and fully responsible for his choice of life or second
death. R4781:3
He cannot be light to any man until he has heard of him; therefore every
man is to hear of him. R691:1* 659:1*
All who have died without the true light will be enlightened in the
future, and the words of the angel will be verified, "Behold I bring you
glad tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people." (Luke 2:10) R9:6*
If only a few have yet heard the good tidings in any sense, must there not
be a restitution to life as well as a future proclamation of the only name
given? R412:6
Some things are universal. God's sunshine is universal; it shines from
pole to pole, upon both the just and the unjust. So is his love. Light and
truth are yet to be universal, and so is the testimony of the ransom.
R2632:6*
How many will so make use of the blessing--the light, the drawing and the
knowledge--so as to conform to the requirements of the New Covenant is
another question entirely. R2127:6
None will be destroyed in the second death without having this
enlightenment. R3725:2; SM250:T
In the coming Millennial age, all the blind eyes shall be opened and all
the deaf ears shall be unstopped. R5279:1, 2550:3
As there was a fullness of time in which our Savior should be born, so
also there is a due time in which the knowledge and blessing flowing from
his redemptive sacrifice shall be made effective to all. R2490:1
Jesus is not only to be the glory of Israel, but the light of the world.
R2125:6; PD55/67
As the vast majority of mankind have never been thus enlightened, and
thousands more have been only partially so, it follows logically that the
full enlightenment of the world tarries until the Millennium. R1674:2
Before the world will be enlightened, a saintly class, the Church, the
bride of Christ, must be enlightened, and must be completed and glorified
together with her Lord. R4988:4
Thus far Jesus has not been dealing with the world, but merely with the
blessed ones who have the eye of faith and the ear of faith. R4967:6,
4677:2; CR126:4; SM249:1
Our Lord's mission is not merely for an elect class, but in conjunction
with that election he is to give an opportunity for life everlasting to
every man. NS352:5; OV36:T
As a consequence of misdirection of efforts into mission work, slum work
and work for the heathen, some are doing works now which God intends shall
be done in the future age, and which can and will be done then to very
much better advantage every way. R2690:2
The resurrection of the just will be necessary to bring the Church to
glory and joint-heirship with her Lord, but the resurrection of the
unjustified will be for the very purpose of permitting them to see the
true Light. R5352:5
Sodom and Tyre, who did not have as good an opportunity as Capernaum and
Bethsaida, will, in the regeneration, find their condition even better
than theirs. R351:2*
Even in this comparatively enlightened day, millions of heathen give no
evidence of such enlightenment. A104 HG343:6
John 1:10
The world -- Including every individual of the human race, from the
first man to the very last of his posterity. R1328:1*
Made by him -- The Lord was ushered into the world, which as a Logos he
had made, in a most humble manner in his birth at Bethlehem. R3702:5
And the world -- Of mankind. R338:4
Knew him not -- Still more surprising, his own nation, the Jews, knew
him not! although they had been instructed from the beginning of their
nationality to look for the Messiah, and although a description had been
given to them. R4107:6
Jesus was the great King of Glory in disguise. (Illustrated in referenced
articles by the story of a British prince in disguise.) R4687:6; Q365:6
The Jews did not know whom they were crucifying, and they were not a bit
more to be blamed than was Paul for assisting in the killing of Stephen.
Q368:T
John 1:11
Unto his own -- The Lord came (AD 29) not to the true Israelites only,
but to the entire mass. C150
This was a crisis in the affairs of the seed of Abraham according to the
flesh--a testing time--a judgment as to whether or not they were fit to be
God's holy nation. NS442:2
And his own -- The house of servants, under the bondage of the Law
Covenant. R1725:6
The Jewish nation. R338:4, 5768:6, 5172:4; CR23:5
As a nation. R4013:4, 3476:1, 2633:3; F433
Received him not -- Excepting the few. R189:3
After our Lord's three and a half years ministry only a little more than
five hundred had become Jesus' disciples and had remained true. R5768:6
And thus identified themselves, for a time, with the Adversary. NS74:5
Fulfilled, not by the rejection of our Lord at Nazareth, but by his
rejection by the whole nation of Israel. R3302:4
The promised Messiah came, not in glory as they had expected, but in a
lowly condition, to die for sin. PD35/46
They could not receive spiritual things, for spiritual things were not for
natural men. CR23:5
Their rejection of Jesus and his testimony showed that they were not as a
nation fit for his purpose. NS442:2
Seeing that they put away the favor of God from them and proved themselves
unworthy of it, he turned to the Gentiles to take out of them a people for
his name. R1696:1
They were rejected--not cast into eternal torment, but rejected from the
special favor which they had previously enjoyed as inheritors of the
Abrahamic blessing. NS370:2
The Lord said to them, "The kingdom that was for you shall be taken from
you and given to another people" (Matt. 21:43), those whom he has been
taking out of the Gentiles for it. HG153:5
So far as the spiritual part of God's great promise to Abraham is
concerned it has passed from the Jewish nation; but there still remains
for them a glorious earthly portion, to which they will be introduced at
our Lord's second coming. NS780:4
"A man's foes shall be those of his own household." The Master was a Jew.
The Jews were his brethren according to the flesh, and it was they that
hated him without a cause and persecuted him. SM218:1
As Moses came to his own people and they rejected him, and he fled for his
life to the land of Midian, from whence he came to them a second time. So
Christ, also, has come a second time. R4058:2
It makes us sad when we see what they might have had, but lost; yet on the
other hand, we are glad, for because of their casting off we have been
permitted to come in. CR48:2
A parallel: At our Lord's second advent he comes to Christendom as his
professed people; and, in harmony with the prophets, he is again rejected,
yet not by all. R3302:4
The majority of persecutions have been by those who professed to be the
people of God, many of whom really thought they were. R5172:5
John 1:12
But -- He burned the chaff, but the wheat he gathered into his garner.
R628:2*
A still greater and more glorious hope, one in which all others center and
are bound up, the hope of being made perfect in Christ, of being made
partakers of the divine nature, of completing our adoption as sons of God.
R351:4*
As many as received him -- As many of the house of servants. R1416:6
Who would leave the house of Moses, the house of servants, and attach
themselves to Jesus, the Son of God, that they might be members of the
house of sons. NS201:4
While the nation, as a nation, was rejected by the Lord, the faithful
individuals who became his disciples were received of him. R3302:4
Every faithful "Israelite indeed" at the first advent had the primary
consecration typified in the Levites. To such God gave the Gospel call to
consecrate to death. Such as obeyed this invitation were accepted as sons
of God. F124
All the wheat of that nation, all who were ready for the Kingdom. NS626:3
Believed his message. R342:6
God's favor toward that people was manifested by the fact that he rejected
none of those who were fit for his purpose, "Israelites indeed, in whom
there was no guile." NS442:2
Every Jew who would get free from that Law obligation could have done so
only by confessing his shortcomings and inability and by accepting a share
in the sacrifice of Christ. R4559:2
A considerable number; nevertheless but a "remnant" of that nation, after
it had been sifted. Fortunately for us Gentiles, these were not enough to
complete the elect number. R2401:5
Only a remnant at the first advent were found possessed of the faith of
Abraham, and accepted by our Lord as members of the new house of sons.
R2442:3
A small remnant, as compared with the whole nation. R3476:1, 2401:5,
2371:6; SM366:1
Of these were the twelve apostles, the seventy (Luke 10:1), also the "five
hundred brethren" (1Cor. 15:6), and those Jews subsequently reached
on the Day of Pentecost and afterward during the entire harvest of their
age. R4108:1; CR48:3
It was necessary and expedient that the message should go unto all
nations, though they did not receive it. The few who did receive it
thereby received "power to become sons of God," while it also served as a
witness to the nations. R517:5*
Comparatively few, even of those who do recognize him as the Redeemer and
granted this liberty, have availed themselves of the great privilege and
become sons of God. R1008:1
Liberty to become sons of God will not be given to all men. This liberty
is connected with the special high calling of this Gospel age, and ceases
with it. R1006:3
Those of the spiritual house now accepting the Lord are in due time to
receive a great blessing--the antitype of the Pentecostal
blessing--glorification. R3302:4
To them -- The elect, the worthy. F177
Publicans, harlots, etc. R342:6
Gave he -- Blessed them with the power and privilege of becoming sons of
God, whereas previously their highest possibility had been to be God's
servants and friends. Here we note the change of dispensation from the
Jewish to the Christian. R2409:3
Power -- By a begetting of the holy Spirit. R5068:6
By regeneration. R2129:2
Ability. R1416:6
Privilege, opportunity. E177
Liberty, privilege. R5510:3, 5775:1, 5370:3, 5352:6, 5295:5, 4939:6,
4013:4, 3841:5, 1005:5; PD58/70; SM9:T
Liberty, freedom from condemnation, otherwise known as justification
through his blood. R1007:1
In the merit of the sacrifice of our Redeemer, even as fleshly Israel
gained a standing before God through the typical broken body and shed
blood of bullocks and lambs. R1336:3
"Tarry ye at Jerusalem until ye be endured with power from on high." (Luke
24:49) NS201:2
Not granted immediately, but merely in a reckoned way, up to the time when
Jesus finished his course, ascended up into heaven and poured out the holy
Spirit upon his followers. R5310:3
No such privilege was given to the Jews, nor to any of the fallen race,
until Pentecost--after Jesus had appeared in the presence of God to make
atonement for our sins. R5352:6, 5775:2, 5370:3, 5207:3, 2788:2, 2225:5,
1509:6
In the midst of the house of servants, not yet begotten of the Spirit, not
yet granted the privilege of sonship, our Lord could do and teach on no
higher plane than the earthly. R2455:1
Those Jews who were not faithful were not even servants. But when Christ
came, he made it possible for some to come out and pass from the house of
servants into the house of sons. R5310:3, 4108:1, 4013:4, 3476:2, 3433:6,
2796:6, 2283:4, 1416:6
Signifying the purchasing of the Jewish people from under the dominion of
the Law, and the liberation of believers from it, that they might become
sons of God. E430
He did not make us sons, but simply gave us the liberty or privilege to
become sons. The patriarchs and prophets of the preceding four thousand
years could not become sons, because they were not given that privilege or
liberty. R1005:6
Only those who have "escaped the condemnation that is in the world," and
who have gotten back into harmony with God, through Christ, are
Scripturally authorized to consider themselves the sons of God. E108
To become -- Until the ransom had been paid to divine justice, the
condemned ones could not be received back to the condition of sonship
enjoyed by father Adam, but forfeited for himself and posterity when he
became a sinner. R2409:3; NS662:6
Sons of God -- To join the Order of Spiritual Sons, the Melchizedek
Order of Priesthood. SM9:T
The first opportunity for any of the house of servants to become sons of
God was at the first advent, after our Lord had made a consecration of his
life as man's redemption price. R3277:1
To step from the House of Servants over into the House of Sons, from
fleshly Israel over into spiritual Israel. CR23:5; R3433:6; PD58/70;
NS662:3
The real Israel of God is spiritual Israel. The promises and
opportunities, however, went first to natural Israel; and as many out of
all the tribes who were of right condition of heart and received the
Master were granted the liberty to become members of the House of Sons.
SM727:2
With all that this implies of divine favor and eternal life, and all the
proper privileges and liberties as sons. E28; R1725:6, 1007:5
To become associated with himself, to become identified with himself, as
members of his Body. R5119:4
The first invitation to fallen men to become sons of God dates from the
time of Jesus, particularly after he died, rose, ascended and, as a
result, shed the holy Spirit on his waiting disciples, begetting them to a
new nature. R5760:4
The place and time for the adoption of these believers was in the upper
room at Pentecost, when the spirit of adoption was granted unto them.
R3476:2; E209
Sons of God in an especial sense, in a sense different from Adam, even in
his state of innocence. These are invited to be sons of God on a plane of
sonship higher than the angelic sons; viz., as heirs of God of the divine
nature. R2409:4
These sons are all begotten of the holy Spirit. Theirs is not a fleshly
sonship. Their birth of the Spirit will be the resurrection change, when
they shall be made like their Master, see him as he is and share his
glory. R5352:6
Attaining the divine nature. (2 Pet. 1:4) R5859:5
The Scriptures clearly point out the Heavenly Father as the begetter in
the regeneration of the Church, the Bride of Christ. E143
The Lord who redeems or purchases all is not the life-giver to the Little
Flock, but under the mantle of his merit he introduces us directly to the
Father to be begotten by him as new creatures. R1006:6
This power to become sons of God is not granted to sinners, but to the
justified. R2409:4
Before that time none could become "heirs of God, and joint-heirs with
Christ"--heirs of the Abrahamic promise. (Rom. 8:17) R5207:4, 2279:3
Previously, the very highest claim that they could make was that which the
Jews made--that of being servants of God. E28; R5623:2, 4958:2; HG131:5
The Jews never claimed the title sons of God for themselves, nor would it
have been proper for them to have done so. NS256:4
The very highest expression of God's favor toward any of them was shown in
Abraham, and he was called only a friend. R5310:3, 5206:3; CR93:4
The heart-loyalty of the "Israelites indeed" God appreciated, and they
were granted the privilege at Pentecost of stepping from the house of
Moses, as faithful servants, into the house of Christ, as faithful sons.
(Heb. 2:5,6) R4939:6
Adam was originally a son of God (Luke 3:38), but none were so called
subsequently until the Gospel age. The term "sons of God" is a general
term applied to angels. (Job 1:6; 2:1; 38:7) R2843:5
Our Lord Jesus was the first human son of God after Adam. OV427:4
The chief cause for joy lies in the fact of being accepted as sons into
God's family. R2675:5
The Church will always be in covenant relationship with the Father. Every
father is in covenant relationship with his children, and they with him.
Every child has a responsibility to its father, and the father to the
child. R5163:5
These, coming into the relationship of spiritual Israelites, were enabled
by this begetting of the holy Spirit to appreciate the spiritual things
given to these Israelites. All the truths that we have are drawn from
those things God gave to the natural Israelites, and we can understand
them, though the natural Israelite could not. R5295:6
A relationship implied when Jesus taught them to pray, "Our Father, which
art in heaven," assuring them that God recognized them not as servants,
but as sons, a term of special endearment. R3352:1
Although tests are applied and qualifications imposed on these,
nevertheless it is a step of grace, because there were no obligations
resting upon God to confer upon us such a "high calling." R2284:3
As sons of God, with the new life begun, these are to realize that
everything of the present life is quite unworthy to be compared with the
future and eternal interests. R2686:5
The highest manifestation of the holy Spirit is the spirit of adoption,
which in due time, the Millennial age, shall be poured upon all reconciled
to God. R2070:4
It is by reason of the spirit of adoption that the Church during the
Gospel age is enabled to worship God still more pleasingly than could the
This new name brings new and exalted privileges, even fellowship or unity
with God and his Son Jesus Christ. This gives a new basis for action--love
instead of fear--and leads to certain success. R91:1*
Accepted as sons, they become his tabernacles, his dwelling-places. (Psa.
84:1) R1401:6
The Great Company, who do not fully and freely fulfill their covenant,
will be sons of God. R1008:5
To them that believe -- Not belief that such a person lived, or that he
was a fine man and taught excellent precepts, or that he set an example;
but a belief in his name Savior, the recognition and acceptance of him as
one who saves his people from their sins. R1006:1
Only those who after believing in the only name, Savior, followed on and
consecrated themselves, took up the cross and sufferings of Christ and
shared them, are presented before the Father as sons. R1008:3
Who accepted him as the Savior, the Sent of God. NS442:2
Believers in the Messiah are thus brought within reach of the great
privilege of sonship and joint-heirship. R2425:2
To as many of the Jews as would come into harmony with him, as many as
would walk in his steps of self-sacrifice and thus have God's favor. In
substance he said, "This is the way. Trust in me and walk in my steps.
Thus you shall be my disciples." R5083:2
On his name -- On his greatness as Messiah. NS832:1
John 1:13
Which were born -- We render the Greek gennao begotten, and not born,
for although the same Greek word is used interchangeably, the construction
of the Greek sentence here fixes it as signifying begetting. R4108:2,
3476:3
Westcott bears out this thought, saying, "Literally, begotten, as in 1
John 2:29, 3:9." R3476:3
God being associated with the action, the word should be rendered
begotten. R837:1
Begotten. This spirit begetting was not possible in its full, proper
sense, until Jesus had made reconciliation for the sins of the world, or,
at least, had prepared the way for reconciliation by his own death. R5623:2
Begotten again. R3140:2
Begotten again as a new race, a race separate and distinct from all
others; therefore new creatures in Christ Jesus. (Gal. 6:15) R2129:1
There is a likeness between an earthly birth and the new birth necessary
to a share in the Kingdom. R3486:1
There must also be a period of gestation for this spiritual new creature
that will precede its resurrection birth. All who share the spiritual
Kingdom as spiritual beings must first be begotten of the spirit and
subsequently be developed of the spirit. R3486:1
All who are spirit begotten by the holy Spirit during this age, are
promised a spirit birth, to spirit-being in the resurrection. NS803:3
Not of blood -- Not along family lines of blood relationship. R4108:2
Not of heredity. R3476:3
Nor of the will of the flesh -- Either directly or indirectly, not of
the will of man in any sense of the word. R3476:3
To be begotten of an earthly father and later to be born of an earthly
mother would insure that the progeny would be earthly also. "That which is
born of the flesh is flesh." (John 3:6) R3486:1
Not along fleshly lines of worldly sympathy and judgment, not according to
man's wealth or wisdom. R4108:2
But of God -- God alone does this begetting. God alone accepts to
membership in this new creation. God alone imparts the seal of adoption.
R3476:3
No man can sanctify himself in the sense of causing himself to be accepted
and adopted into God's family of the new creation, begotten by his Spirit.
F120
"No man taketh this honor unto himself, but he that is called of God, as
was Aaron." (Heb. 5:4) F77
Ishmael was born in the ordinary course of nature, but Isaac, who typified
the true heirs, was not so born, but on the contrary came by the exercise
of divine power, not of the will of flesh, but of God, for Sarah was not
only barren, but aged. R1140:5
John 1:14
And the Word -- The fourteenth verse goes back to take up the subject at
the same point as verse five, and to repeat the narrative from another
standpoint. R2409:5
Made flesh -- The Revised Version renders it, "The Word became flesh."
Both are correct, and both contradict the two extremes of view held by
He became human. R1015:2, 611:3
The Logos was made Jesus. The work of Jesus in the flesh, however, is not
the completion of the divine plan, but merely the beginning of it. R5352:5
Without dying, our Master underwent a change of nature. R4098:2, 2410:1
Nature is simply organism, and varies according to the form or quality of
the organism. The element of life is always the same. Q808:T
The spiritual nature is one thing and the fleshly nature is another. The
blending of the two natures would produce a hybrid nature or being. Q807:4
Jesus had not two natures, but one nature, having changed the higher, the
spiritual nature, for the human nature. R5748:1
He exchanged his spiritual being or existence for the human, which he made
"a sin offering," and which was typified by the Atonement Day bullock. T52
This meant the complete laying aside of the spirit nature before enjoyed,
a change or transmutation to another nature, the human. R3946:5
Why should it be any more incredible that Jesus' nature was transformed
from the spiritual to the human without retaining his former nature under
cover than that the Church "shall put on immortality" and yet not retain
the flesh and blood nature. R677:4*
The thought contained in the word ransom did not call for a God to redeem
a man, nor could a spirit being of any rank do so; for there could be no
correspondency between them. SM659:T
He was transformed from the spiritual to the human nature, so that in
giving his life for the world's redemption he might give the exact
equivalent or corresponding price for that which was lost. R1673:3
Nothing less than this great stoop or humiliation enabled him to be our
Redeemer, and qualified him to give to God the ransom price for man's
transgression. R2409:6, 1603:6, 1583:1; A178
While there was a sacrifice of power, of honor, of glory, yet no sacrifice
of life was involved. The life principle was the same that he had before,
therefore the personality was the same. It was important to have identity
of mind, and this he had by divine arrangement. R5064:2
Necessary, because it was a man who had sinned, and because the divine law
required a man's life for a man's life as the ransom price. R3946:5,
2476:6 Man is of human or flesh nature; hence if the spiritual Son of God
would give to dying men the bread of life, it must be flesh, full of
life-giving nutriment. R1014:6
In being "made flesh," and then sacrificing that flesh, he gave his all on
our behalf. NS478:4
Proof that the perfect man is not a spiritual being. A177
It was not an angel that had sinned and hence an angel could not be the
Redeemer. Nothing but the sacrificial death of a perfect man could redeem
the race from their death sentence. Any perfect man could have been thus
substituted, but there was none. Hence the necessity that Jesus be "made
flesh." R4587:6
To be the Redeemer of man it was necesarry for him to become a man, not to
pretend to be one, for the divine law required like for like--"life for
life." (Deut. 19:21) R5622:6
The primary step in man's recovery was necessarily that the Logos should
be made flesh and taste death for every man. It is for this first step
that we celebrate the birth of Jesus. R5135:3
His human body was the body of his humiliation, the "body prepared" for
sacrifice (Heb. 10:4, 5), which was sacrificed; and which, being
sacrificed, was never taken back; it was given as the price of our
redemption. R1806:2
"Verily, he took not hold upon the nature of angels [as though referring
to the angels which sinned], but he took hold on the seed of Abraham...he
also himself took part in the same [flesh and blood, human nature] that
through death he might destroy him that hath the power of death, that is,
the devil." (Heb. 2:14, 16) E425
Jesus was born a descendant of Abraham, through the virgin Mary. He kept
the Jewish Law inviolate, and thus proved himself worthy to be that Seed
who would bless the world. OV429:T
The Word, made flesh, did not rise again; but it was the Lord of glory,
newly begotten as the son of God at Jordan, the new creature, that rose
again. R4108:4
If merely a spirit being veiled in flesh--"incarnate"--he could not have
been the Redeemer at all. E94, 296; R5622:5, 5352:2, 5064:3, 4106:3,
4108:3, 3476:3, 2409:5
A totally different thing from merely appearing in a body of flesh, like a
man. R1952:3, 1856:3
Denied by those who claim that the spirit being came into the flesh, but
was always separate and distinct, and no flesh; also by Universalists and
Unitarians who claim that our Lord had no existence before and was born
after the ordinary manner of men; also by Swedenborgians and Spiritists.
R980:6
Not, however, fallen human nature, not sinful flesh, but the human nature
unfallen, the likeness of humanity free from its blemishes through sin and
death. R2409:6
The Greek word sarx does not mean sinful at all, nor sinful flesh; it
means flesh, simply and only, and is used in reference to Adam and Eve
before they sinned (1 Cor. 6:16), as well as after. Twenty-five times it
is used referring to our Lord's flesh. R1223:2
Lest we should get the wrong thought, that he had become a sinful man, we
are guarded by the assurance that he was "holy, harmless, undefiled,
separate from sinners." (Heb. 7:26) R5352:2
The idea of this change is not so much that from one locality to another,
as it is from one nature to another. R1328:2*
His body was especially prepared, separate and different from others of
our race, all of whom were of Adamic stock and all tainted with sin and
the seeds of death. (Heb. 10:5-9) R5352:2
What was needed was not merely a sacrifice for sins, but a sinless
sacrifice, which would thus pay the sinner's penalty. E96
Only for a limited time. He was not humbled to a lower nature forever. The
object of the humiliation is clearly stated to have been "for the
suffering of death." (Heb. 2:9) R1952:3
He did not deceive the people by getting into a body. CR290:5 247:4;
R5157:1, 2409:5
If his being called the Word, in his pre-human existent state, proves that
he was not a person, then he is not now and never has been a person, for
he was the Word when in the flesh. R106:2*
After his human existence had served its purpose and he had been raised
from the dead a quickening spirit, no more to become a man, we may be sure
that he had no less power to appear as a man than he had in the days of
Abraham. NS177:4
We beheld -- We may not surely know the thought. He may have meant that
they beheld his glory when he manifested himself to them subsequent to the
Lord's resurrection; or he may have referred to the dignity and honor of
his human perfection--God manifest in the flesh. R4108:6
His glory -- Pilate exclaimed "Behold the Man!"--not only "the" Jew
above all other Jews, but "the" Man above all other men. E154
There is a glory and honor which belong to perfect manhood. "Thou hast
made him [man] a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with
glory. Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands."
(Psa. 8:5,6) R4155:2, 3476:4, 1060:4, 338:6
The grandeur, nobility and perfection of the "man Christ Jesus," a
perfection and glory seen in no other, because all others were sinners.
R3476:4, 2410:4, 1005:4
Attesting fully that he was not of the sinner race of Adam, but that he
was indeed an exception to all mankind. R2410:4
The only begotten -- The thought conveyed by this expression is that the
Logos was himself the only direct creation or begetting of the Heavenly
Father, while all others of God's sons (angels as well as men) were his
indirect creation through the Logos. E88
The Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the Ending, the First and the Last
of Jehovah's direct creation. (Rev. 1:8,10; Col. 1:13) HG297:1; PD54/67;
Q377:6
He was not only the first of God's creation, but the last. R1514:6; SM492:T
In no other sense or way than as the "only" direct creation of God,
through whom all else was created, could our Lord be the first and last of
God's creation. E93; Q377:6
Christ was God's Son in the sense of being begotten by him. Christ called
God his Father, and God acknowledged him as his Son. (Matt. 3:17; 17:5)
R944:4*
Our Redeemer, prior to becoming a man, was a spirit being. OV353:7
He never acknowledged Joseph to be his father; nor did he ever acknowledge
his earthly life to be the beginning of his existence. E89
Full of grace and truth -- In whom dwelt all the Father's fullness, thus
designed in all things to have pre-eminence above all others. R1904:5
Jesus had the glory of the Only Begotten of the Father. This was the way
above all others in which God was manifest in the flesh. R5291:1
John 1:15
John bare witness -- John the Baptist had the great honor and
distinction of being the first of God's witnesses amongst men respecting
God's only begotten Son. R3477:1
In proportion as the people believed John's message and acted thereon, in
that same proportion they were ready for Jesus' ministry and the further
truth of the Gospel. R4115:5
The fact that John was given the honorable position of identifying and
declaring Jesus as the Messiah was of itself an assurance that the great
One thus introduced was very great in the estimation of Jehovah God.
R4107:5
This was he -- The one appointed of the Father to carry out the great
plan. CR453:5; R1059:6
Cometh after me -- The manifestation of Jesus to Israel is also called a
coming. R114:6*
John 1:16
Of his fulness -- In him all the fullness of perfection dwelt, and of

his fullness have all we received. They who get none of his fullness, have
none of his righteousness imputed to them, reap no benefit from his
sacrifice for our sins. R440:1
Of that same fullness of favor with God which Jesus enjoyed because of his
sinless perfection. R339:1
The spirit given to Jesus without measure was given by measure to all his
disciples and members, and is the spirit of adoption. R182:2
We received -- Because of our justification through faith in his blood.
R339:1
Grace for grace -- More literally, favor upon favor. The blessing coming
first in relationship to the Lord is by no means all of his favor. One may
grow in grace, grow in knowledge, grow in the fruits of the Spirit, and
possess favor upon favor additionally, continuously to the end of the
course. R3476:6
Grace upon grace, favor upon favor. (Diaglott) The high calling is not a
salvation at all, but a gracious favor of God beyond the favor of
salvation. R1442:2, 1262:3
Or, favor on account of favor. Being lifted from the condition of rebels
to that of justification by faith was one act of favor. That favor opened
the way for another favor--the call to become partakers of the divine
nature. R339:1
John 1:17
The law -- The shadow of good things to come in and after the Gospel
age. R339:1
Here a contrast is drawn between the Jewish and Gospel ages. R339:1
We may still use the old rules to guide us as to the Master's wishes, but
to refer to those rules to seek the mind of the Master, and to esteem them
as a covenant over us, are different matters. R976:6
Given -- Of God. R3177:5
By Moses -- God dealt with only one man in connection with the making of
the Law Covenant, Moses, who stood at the position of a father to the
whole nation, the nation being regarded and treated as children under age.
R1725:3
It was as God's representative on the one hand, and as Israel's
representative on the other, that Moses could be and was the Mediator of
the Law Covenant between God and that nation. R5046:6
The typical mediator, the head of the typical house of Israel. R3476:6
To suppose this to mean that there was no divine law previous to the
giving of the Law at Mt. Sinai would be as unreasonable as to suppose that
neither grace nor truth was known until our Lord's first advent. R1723:2
Since the government of God is universal and eternal, it follows that
there never was a time or place without law, nor a being not subject to
his law or under its control. R1723:2
God's Law was made known at Mt. Sinai, through Moses, in a different
manner than it had previously been made known. R1723:3
But grace -- The payment of our ransom price. R339:1
So then ye are not under law but under grace, favor. (Rom. 6:14) You are
not acceptable with God because there is no fault in you, but because
favor covers your unwilling imperfections of thought, word and deed. R971:4
Those in Christ, whether they were Jews or Gentiles, are in no sense under
the Law given at Sinai. Love to God and men, laid down by Jesus and the
apostles, is the only rule under which the new creature of Christ is
placed. R971:1
And truth -- The additional favor of the knowledge of God's plan and our
high calling as revealed through it. R339:4
Even Israelites indeed, whose hearts were sincere toward God, in ancient
times were still in the dark respecting the divine plan. No revelation of
God's great salvation had yet been made. R3447:4
By Jesus Christ -- A condition of knowledge and opportunity for eternal
life did not obtain in the world until our Lord came. R4598:2
By full obedience to the Law Covenant he had the right to life
everlasting, and superseded Moses as the Lawgiver. R1725:4
John 1:18
No man hath seen God -- If the Father would show himself to humanity it
could only be either by miraculously opening man's eyes to discern the
spiritual glory (thus exposing man to death), or else by God's manifesting
himself in "a body of flesh" in such a manner that men could discern
something of his character by contact and intercourse. E77
Seeing with the natural eye and hearing with the natural ear are not all
there is of seeing and hearing. All God's children have seen him, known
him and held communion with him. B122
Jesus revealed or caused his disciples to see the Father by making known
his character, revealing him by words and deeds as the God of Love. T86
Yet so undeniable is nature's testimony, and so logical the reasoning from
cause to effect, that the conclusion that there is an intelligent, wise
and powerful Creator is so irresistible that the Scriptures declare the
man a fool who does not accept it. (Psa. 14:1) R1158:2*
Those who share the Kingdom with Jesus will be "changed" from human nature
to spirit nature in the resurrection, and see God. R4558:2
The spiritual phase of the Kingdom of God will always be invisible to men,
as those composing it will be of the divine, spiritual nature, which no
man hath seen nor can see (1 Tim. 6:16); yet its presence and power will
be mightily manifested, chiefly through its human representatives. A288
Only begotten Son -- A son can never be his own father, nor can it be
claimed that a son never had a beginning, for the term, son, implies a
life existence, being, which had a beginning, and which was derived from a
father. R2408:5
God's bosom friend and confidential companion, ever in fullest harmony,
sympathy and cooperation with him. R247:2
In the bosom -- Previous to his human existence--the Father's only
begotten Son. R1247:2
Hath declared him -- Interpreted him (Rotherham). E77
Revealed him. R2454:5, 2781:4; CR472:4
As it was impossible for the Lord's followers to actually see God, the
only way in which they could see God was in the representative sense,
through our Lord Jesus, who was "God manifest in the flesh." (1 Tim. 3:16)
Q781:T
"The man Christ Jesus" was the perfect representation of the Heavenly
Father, so that he who saw the Son, who was the express image of the
Father's person, saw the Father also. R2781:4; Q781:T
In seeing Jesus they saw the most that was possible to be seen of the
divine character--its likeness, its perfect image in flesh. "He that hath
seen me hath seen the Father." (John 14:9) R2454:6
He was the first expression or manifestation of the divine attributes.
SM483:3
The Ancient Worthies when perfected in the flesh will be absolutely
perfect representatives of God, Jesus and the Church. CR472:4; E77
John 1:19
The record of John -- Doubtless he notes this fact because many of the
Jews evidently had great confidence in John the Baptist, though rejecting
Jesus. R3476:6
The Jews sent priests -- It was while Jesus was away in the wilderness
that the Pharisees and scribes asked John whether or not he was the
Messiah. R4115:2 "All men were in expectation of him," thus it was not
surprising that the Jews urged the leaders of the nation, priests and
Levites, to go to John and interview him and advise them respecting his
message. R3477:3
To ask him -- It was in harmony with the general expectation of Messiah
that John's preaching drew such large crowds when he announced that the
Kingdom of Messiah was nigh. R4115:5
Who art thou? -- What a temptation to claim to be some great one and to
exalt himself in the estimation of his fellow-men. R1694:6
John 1:21
Art thou Elias? -- The Greek form of the word Elijah. R3477:3
John came with the same disposition, zeal, energy, power of eloquent
persuasion, that characterized Elias. Even his dress and abstemious mode
of life were marks of similarity. R1687:3
The fact that John the Baptist simulated Elijah in apparel, general
demeanor and forceful teaching, attracted the people much more than
otherwise would have been the case. R3477:2
John in the flesh introduced Jesus in the flesh and thus fulfilled the
work of forerunner, so the Church in the flesh during this Gospel age has
been the antitypical Elijah, whose business it is to announce the second
coming of Christ. R4113:4
I am not -- Jesus said, "This is the Elijah if ye will receive it"
(Matt. 11:14). As Jesus in the flesh was the forerunner of the Messiah in
power and glory, so John was a forerunner to a greater one than himself, a
more important witness, composed of many members, introducing the greater,
glorious Christ of many members. R3477:4, 3293:1
Jesus' statement was conditional: If ye receive it, this is Elias; if not,
he is not the Elias. They did not receive it, hence John could truly say,
"I am not'" HG68:5
Though John came in the spirit and power of Elias, and would have fully
answered as the antitype of Elias had he been received by the Jewish
people (Matt. 11:14), yet he was not the Elias referred to by the prophet
Malachi. (Mal. 4:5,6) R1687:6; Q772:4, 817:2
John the Baptist did not fullfil by any means all that was predicted
respecting the antitypical Elijah and his ministries which would be
introductory to the Christ of glory. NS143:1, 273:3
John was not the Elijah mentioned by the Prophet, and yet he did a work of
Elijah to those amongst the Jews who received his message. B253; R3477:5,
3293:1
He boasted nothing of himself; his main mission was to prepare the people
for the Messiah and point them to him. Our success, as members of the
antitypical Elijah, will be in proportion as self is ignored and Christ is
made the theme of our discourses, the center of our teachings. R3477:6
We, too, are not to honor ourselves, but to honor him whom the Father has
honored, our Lord and our Head. R4115:3
John 1:23
I am the voice -- Merely a forerunner, a herald. R2570:6, 3477:3, 4113:3

Merely a nameless voice. R3477:3
John himself claimed to be the fullfilment of Mal. 3:1 and Isa. 40:3--not
the Messiah, but the forerunner of the Messiah. R1736:3
In the East in olden times, and still, great personages in their travels
are preceded by heralds or forerunners who clear the way. R4113:3
The voice of the Church's message is again heard in the world, though they
are still separate--in spirit at least--to Christianity, Babylon, and the
world, Egypt. NS143:3, 273:6
In the wilderness -- John the Baptist did literally enough dwell in the
wilderness and preached there, thus typifying the experiences of the
Church, which, during a large portion of this Gospel age, has been in the
wilderness or hidden condition as respects the world and worldly history.
NS143:2, 273:3
Revelation tells us in symbolical language of how the Church fled into the
wildeness condition for 1,260 symbolical days--1,260 years--which period
ended with the year 1799. NS143:3, 273:5
This, along with his unusual clothing and diet, evidencing complete
separation from the world and complete devotion to his special ministry.
R3477:2
Make straight -- The Church of Christ in the flesh has been witness to
the world that they are in a wilderness condition, and need the presence
of the great King to bring order out of confusion, and that those who hear
should walk circumspectly. R4113:5
Way of the Lord -- The world is probably less prepared for the Kingdom
than at any other time of their history so far as governments are
concerned, so far as the preparation for the Kingdom by any highway of
righteousness and holiness, the straightening of crooked things and the
smoothing of rough conditions are concerned. NS274:3
Mankind has not responded to this appeal to cast up a highway of holiness,
but the Lord is about to set up his Kingdom and set up the highway of
holiness. That which mankind will not naturally respond to in the present
time will be forcibly established in the future time. NS144:3, 275:1
John 1:25
Why baptizest thou -- "If you are a person of no special authority,

neither the Messiah himself, nor his forerunner, nor a special prophet,
why do you start in to do a special reformatory work, and introduce as a
symbol of cleansing this baptism, which is wholly without precedent among
the Jews?" R3341:3
The same thought prevails today. Unless some boastful title or authority
is claimed, the right to preach, the right to witness for the Lord in
public, is called in question by many. R3478:1
The baptism of John was to the Jews only, and was wholly different from
the baptism appointed for those called from amongst the Gentiles. R2417:3
John 1:26
I baptize -- We have no record that John the Baptist was ever immersed
himself, nor would he need to have been, since he evidently was a godly
man, to the best of his ability living up to the standard of the Law
Covenant. R2417:5
With water -- The spirit of God had directed him to baptize with water.
R1695:1
One among you -- Present. B260
A kingdom is always represented by its king. Jesus as King was present in
their midst. R5455:3
So it must be in the end of this age; the work of the John class or Elijah
class closes with the announcement that the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand,
and the King is present. B260; R968:5
Our Lord's baptism was the beginning of the Christian's baptism. It
symbolized the consecration which he had just made to do the Father's
will, even unto death. R2417:5
Whom ye know not -- Whom you do not recognize. R3478:1, 5455:3
Similarly, all through the Gospel age, his "body" has been undiscerned by
the world. R5455:3
At the second advent it will be as it was at the first advent. We are not
to expect the second coming of Christ in the flesh, but as a spirit being.
R4692:6
We believe that there has been One with us, the Present One, the King God
has appointed, and the world knows him not. He is not revealed unto them.
He has come as a thief in the night. (2 Pet. 3:10) Q92:3
Now none can see him present but those who have spiritual eye-sight and
are looking. Such walk by faith and not by sight, and may well endure "as
seeing him that is invisible" (Heb. 11:27) to humanity. R242:5
Though you cannot see the "reaper" you can see his work going on around
you in the nominal church, the wheat and tares being separated. R242:6
The epiphania of our Lord is already affecting the world, though not
through the eyes of the understanding, for they have no eyes for such
spiritual things. R2983:4
John 1:27
He it is -- Calling the attention of the Jewish people to the fact that

the King's Son was in their midst. R5510:5
The mission of those who see the present one is to declare him to the
nominal church, the ripe wheat of which will hear and recognize, while
others will in this respect be blind. R242:5
Not worthy to unloose -- Not even worthy to be the menial servant of the
great Messiah. R4115:2, 3475:5
It was this meekness, this complete self-abnegation and singleness of
purpose to accomplish the righteous will of God, that constituted the
moral greatness of God. R1916:2 The chief priests, scribes and Pharisees
were not in heart-readiness for the Messiah, not having this humble,
unselfish spirit of John the Baptist. R1735:6
Let our boasts be that we are merely servants, not lords; merely
witnesses, not great, honorable or reverend, not priests. R3478:1
We, who are the antitype of John, may feel very humble in respect to all
of our privileges in connection with the announcement of the glorious
kingdom. R4113:6
John 1:28
In Bethabara -- Called Bethany by the revisers, thus giving the

suggestion that our Lord was acquainted with the family of Lazarus and
Martha and Mary before he began his ministry. R4117:1
John 1:29
Jesus coming -- Having passed through his temptations in the wilderness

as a victor, Jesus went back to where John had been baptizing and
preaching. R4115:2
He returned to John, seeking companionship with those who were nearest to
the Lord and waiting for divine providence to guide him in his affairs.
R3482:1
His return from the wilderness was to the vicinity of John's mission work,
where not unreasonably he might expect to find some of the Israelites
indeed. R2570:3
Behold -- Speaking as a prophet, producing surprise amongst his hearers:
Look! See! Behold! R4750:5
Let us behold him, not as the Pharisees and scribes did, with eyes of
malice, envy and hatred. Let us look at him in the light of divine
revelation, and perceive that he was without spot or blemish. NS477:4
Observe the humility and self-abnegation of John in pointing out his
cousin according to the flesh as "the Lamb of God," whose rising
popularity must soon eclipse his own. R1694:3
As part of Elijah's work was to point out the true and acceptable
sacrifice of Jehovah, so it was a part of John's work to point out the
antitype of those sacrifices. R556:6
The Lamb of God -- Even John did not know in what sense Jesus was the
Lamb of God. The Jews offered the typical sacrifice every year; but no Jew
had the least idea what it meant. R4750:6
The completeness of the ransom is the very strongest possible argument for
the restitution of all mankind. The very character of God for justice and
honor stands pledged to it; every promise which he has made implies it;
and every typical sacrifice pointed to the great and sufficient sacrifice.
A157 All the sacrifices of the Law, all the blood shed upon Jewish altars,
pointed forward to the great sacrifice for sin slain on our behalf. E446
Look at all the emblems of heraldry and note how various ferocious beasts
and birds are used as symbols of the earthly great. But look at our Lord's
emblem--a meek, innocent, gentle lamb. NS477:1
The gentle, patient, unmurmuring one, who would die on our behalf. NS477:2
While our Lord is styled the "Lion of the tribe of Judah" (Rev. 5:5),
picturing his mighty power as the Millennial King, the picture of a lamb
is certainly very appropriate in connection with his earthly ministry and
sacrifice for our sins. R4114:1, 1063:2*
He was God's Lamb in the sense that his offering for our sins was the
divine arrangement, the Father's plan. R4114:1
Which God himself provided. R1052:6*
The sacrifices for sin, under the Law, were sin-offerings unto Jehovah.
R685:4
The priest carefully inspected the victim that had been selected, to be
sure that there was no blemish in it, and then sealed it with the Temple
seal, in token that it was fit for sacrifice and for food. R967:2*
We may regard the morning and evening sacrifice of the lamb as the same
sermon daily repeated for 1500 years. We need not do exactly that, for
there is abundant variety in the Bible, but the subject of our preaching
is one that never changes--the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the
world. R573:1*
The Lamb led to the slaughter. (Isa. 53:7) R77:6*
"Christ our Passover" (1 Cor. 5:7), a substitute for the Jewish Passover.
R325:2
Each house of Israel represented the household of faith, each lamb
represented the Lamb of God, and the first-born of each family represented
the Christ, Head and Body. NS74:3
There could be no "Church of the first-born" (Heb. 12:23) saved, except
through the slain Lamb. R5180:5, 4703:5, 4555:6
There are pictures of the Church which represent her as participating with
the Lord in his sacrifice; but this Passover type is not one of these.
SM559:2; NS476:6
As they rejected him as King, so likewise as their Passover Lamb he was
not accepted nor received; thus, as a nation, they were not passed over or
saved, but, contrariwise, their national destruction followed. NS631:1
We announce him now to spiritual Israel as the Lord of Life and King of
Glory. R242:5
Taketh away -- The only way by which any and all of the condemned race
may come to God, is not by meritorious works, neither by ignorance, but by
faith in the precious blood of Christ. A103
By laying down his life, giving his life a corresponding price for Adam's.
R5356:4
The Scriptural proposition is that God did require and did accept the
death of Christ as man's ransom sacrifice. E450
The taking away of the sin of the world is divided into two parts: (1) the
taking away of the sins of believers reckonedly; and (2) with his body
members, as the second offering of the great Day of Atonement sacrifice,
for all the people. R4114:3
The members of his body are Scripturally shown as having something to do
with the cancellation of "the sin of the world" because of their
association with the Head. The Great Company has nothing whatever to do
with this cancellation. R5463:3
Not, "which took away the sin of the world." His work is not yet finished.
It begins with the appropriation which clears believers, it will reach its
full accomplishment when the sins of the whole world will be cancelled.
R3478:4
John spoke of the Lamb as being present, but of the cancellation of the
sin of the world as being a future work. This work is still incomplete.
R4114:3
The thought of a future awakening for the purpose of punishment for past
sins is entirely incongruous with the Scriptural conception of divine
justice. NS247:6
The sin of the world -- A general sin which involved the whole race.
NS246:5
The sin of Adam. But there are other sins aside from Adamic sin, which was
brought upon the race by the fall. R5463:3, 77:6*; Q681:4
The original sin was disobedience, including not only the act by which sin
got possession of the world, but everything incidental to the penalty.
R5356:3
The cancellation of the world's sin is effected by the payment of Adam's
penalty. R5640:6; E449
The Jews were specially expecting Messiah to take away the sins of the
Jews, but John's declaration goes further and includes all the Gentiles as
well. R4114:2
Our Lord is declared to come to take away the sin of the world, not merely
the sin of the Church. These are different sins. HG177:6; OV230:5
The sin of the world has not yet been taken away. Our Lord has not yet
applied his merit for the world, but only and expressly for the household
of faith. SM559:2; R4493:5, 4398:3
The propitiation, satisfaction, for our sins, the Church's, and not for
ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. (1 John 2:2) R3013:6
The salvation here taught does not depend on acceptance of him now. R108:5*
He who is the Savior of the Church by the grace of God "tasted death for
every man." NS249:2
With the end of this age Christ will offer to justice full satisfaction
for the sin of the world. R4494:2, 4555:6, 4493:6
The Lamb of God and the Lamb's wife will prosecute the work of actually
taking away the sin of the world during the Millennium. R4556:1, 4493:5
John 1:31
Be made manifest -- By being anointed with water and that which it

represented--the holy Spirit. R60:4*
The birth of Christ was the beginning of the Gospel in fulfillment, but he
was not "made manifest to Israel" until the baptism of John, when Jesus,
at age 30, entered on his public ministry and the harvest work. R114:3*
To Israel -- Not Judah, but Israel. C293; R2085:2, 1341:1
Baptizing with water -- What he did in the way of water baptism was
insignificant, unimportant in comparison with the work of Messiah and his
baptism of the holy Spirit. R3478:2
John 1:32
I saw -- God gave the outward sign of the dove, not for all, but for
John. E212; R5264:5, 2565:5, 2417:6, 2237:4; Q35:4, 36:8; CR401:2
We must see for ourselves that Jesus is the Son of God, the Lamb of God
which taketh away the sin of the world, before we can be God's witnesses
respecting him. R3478:6
The Spirit descending -- John saw and bore record that our High Priest
was thus anointed. T37; R72:6
Jesus was baptized into death before he went into the water, in the sense
that he had given up his own will. But God's manifestation of his
acceptance of Jesus' sacrifice of himself apparently waited until after
Jesus had performed the symbol. R5264:2
Like a dove -- A previously appointed sign which God had given him.
R2570:6
Not that the holy Spirit is a dove, nor that it has bodily shape like a
dove, but that it is a divine power or influence. R2565:5
The dove represented fittingly the meek and quiet spirit which is one of
the striking ornaments of all those who possess the spirit of holiness
unto the Lord. R2565:5
A most fitting emblem of the spirit of meekness, patience,
long-suffering, brother kindness, love, and faithfulness, which is the
spirit of the Father--the holy Spirit. R2237:4
A dove was a favorite figure with the Jews as an emblem of peace and
salvation. R2565:5
Abode upon him -- From that time onward the spirit of Jehovah rested
upon him, and was in him a spirit of wisdom, understanding, counsel,
strength. (Isa.11:2) R2373:3
Jesus began to be the antitype of Isaac at this time. R5967:1
John 1:33
Knew him not -- Not that he was not acquainted with Jesus, but that he
knew not that Jesus was the Messiah. R4114:5, 3478:5
Thou shalt see -- Our Lord was already dead to his own will; otherwise
he could not have gone to John at Jordan. But God's manifestation of his
acceptance of Jesus' sacrifice of himself apparently waited until after
Jesus had performed the symbol. Q36:8
With the Holy Ghost -- Jesus baptized none with the holy Spirit during
his ministry; at Pentecost believers received the baptism of the holy
Spirit. R3478:2
The baptism of the Church at Pentecost was to be done by Christ. Peter
confirms this, declaring that Christ did shed forth his holy Spirit. (Acts
2:33) E212; CR254:3
We can witness to the Lord and perform the symbol of baptism into his
death, but further than this we cannot go. Our glorified Head must give
the great blessing by bringing the consecrated under the favor of the holy
Spirit. R3478:2
John 1:34
I saw -- It was because John had been a witness of the anointing of

Jesus that he bore record. R240:1
Bare record -- If the multitude had seen and heard, John would not have
needed to bear record that Jesus was the Anointed of God. R5157:4
The Son of God -- John did not announce that Jesus was the Father, but
that he was the Son of God. R4114:6
John 1:35
The next day -- At least forty-two days after our Lord's baptism. R3478:3
Shortly after, our Lord departed from the vicinity, so that a simultaneous
work by John and by Jesus was for a time in progress in different
localities. R3478:3
The gathering of the first apostles to the Lord illustrates the diversity
of the Lord's dealings and providences as these are still exercised in the
world in the drawing of others to himself, some in one way and some in
another. R3481:3
Two -- The name of the one is given as Andrew; the name of the other is
omitted, but it is presumed that it was John, the writer of this Gospel.
R4115:6, 3482:2, 2571:3, 2418:1
Through modesty John refrained from bringing himself into special
prominence in his own records. R2418:1
A less modest man, in writing of the matter, would probably have told of
how he first thought of following Jesus and invited Andrew to accompany
him. R4115:6
Others did not appreciate these things so much and remained with John the
Baptist, perhaps becoming the disciples of Jesus after John was dead.
R4750:6, 3482:2
Of his disciples -- They had been with John because he was a reformer.
R4750:6
Doubtless we will find today that some who are engaged in works of reform
from proper motives are specially prepared for deeper truths and grander
privileges in connection with the present harvest work. R2572:1
John 1:36
Looking upon Jesus -- No doubt wondering how our Lord's Messiahship

would be made known. R2570:6
Behold -- This must be our witness, too. The world must be pointed to
the great sacrifice for sins, and not to Christ as the great Teacher.
After they have received him as the Lamb, they will be ready to be taught
of him. R3478:4
The Lamb of God -- Meek, gentle, patient, unassuming, the passover
sacrifice for Israel and the whole world. R3478:3
We might consider this an allusion to the Passover lamb, if this had been
at the Passover season, at the time of the killing of the lamb; but it was
at the opposite end of the year, at the time of our Lord's birthday.
R4750:6
God's Lamb, provided by him as the sacrifice for our sins, as the price of
our redemption from the curse or sentence of death. R3478:4
The same testimony, only abbreviated, which he had given to the priests
and Levites. In their case it fell upon dull ears. Note the difference
here--the two disciples, "Israelites indeed," immediately followed Jesus.
R2570:6
John 1:37
They followed Jesus -- It was not sufficient that a testimony should be

given or that curiosity be aroused; it was necessary additionally that the
interest awakened should be so powerful as to lead to action on the part
of those who were drawn. R2570:6
John's testimony became to them the drawing power of God, because they
were in a condition of heart to be susceptible to that influence. Some are
drawn and others are not drawn by the same message. R2570:6
To seek his fellowship, and if possible identify themselves with his
ministry. R4115:6, 4116:1
This is their first introduction to Jesus; their calling came some six
months later and is recorded in Matt. 4:17-25. R2245:2
To ascertain what further blessings the Lord had, and what further service
than that in which they had engaged with John the Baptist. R3482:2
They had not the partisan spirit to say, "We belong to John the Baptist
and must stand up for him," as some of the Lord's dear people are inclined
to do in respect to the various denominations. R3482:2
John doubtless knew and expected that some of his disciples would cease
cooperation with him, to follow Messiah. R2417:6
Our Lord did not begin to teach until after he was anointed, when he
invited his disciples to join him. They were to proclaim the message
without understanding the matter at all. R5157:4
John 1:38
Jesus turned -- The Lord was the first to speak, thus illustrating his
own words respecting those drawn of the Father to him, "He that cometh
unto me I will in no wise cast out." R2571:1
What seek ye? -- A good question for each to put to himself, and to
suggest at the proper time to all others who are manifesting any interest
in present truth. R4116:2
It is appropriate that we should give heed to the Master's words as though
they were addressed to each of us individually, What are you seeking? Or
we might translate it into the form of today, Is there anything I can do
for you? R4116:3, 1
Are you seeking loaves and fishes of earthly advantage? Are you seeking
earthly honor and social and political influence and preferment? R2571:1
We know what the world is seeking--wealth, honor, fame, ease, etc. R4116:2
To seek the Lord truly is to seek after righteousness, fellowship with the
Father and with the Son. This means the forsaking of sin so far as the
heart is concerned, and so far as possible, the purifying of the flesh.
R2571:2
We should "seek for glory, honor and immortality." (Rom. 2:7) In
conjunction with this seeking for the Kingdom we should remember our
Master's words that we should seek chiefly the Kingdom of God and his
righteousness. (Matt. 6:33) R4116:3
Where dwellest thou? -- They seem to have understood that like
themselves he was a Galilean, and that like themselves and others he was
merely visiting in that vicinity on account of John's mission work.
R2571:2, 4117:1
They wanted to have a personal interview with him, and therefore sought
the retirement of his dwelling. R540:6*
John 1:39
Come and see -- The very fact that the Lord has granted us the privilege
of his fellowship is an assurance that there is something in us that he
does not despise and is willing to take over. R4116:5
Note our Lord's generous reception of them and hospitable invitation to
his home. R4116:2
Where he dwelt -- When the interests of the work required it, he chose a
regular dwelling place. R540:3*
Abode with him -- This may refer to the temporary stay of one day, but
it may with equal propriety be understood to mean that they remained with
the Lord as his disciples thereafter--to the very end of life. R3482:3
So it should be with all of us who have become the Lord's followers. We
are not his disciples for a day, but for all eternity. We abide with him
in loyalty of heart whether we go to seek others or whether we listen to
words at his feet, and he abides with us. R3482:3
Our Lord, while dismissing the self-satisfied, fault-finding quibbles of
the Pharisees with dark or evasive answers, took time and care in making
truth clear and plain to the humble, earnest seekers. B27
The tenth hour -- As it was about four o'clock in the afternoon, they
remained with him the remainder of the day. R4116:1
John 1:40
Andrew -- Had these men not had the spirit of consecration, they never
would have left their affairs to join with John in his ministry, and then
they might not have been so well prepared to be the honored apostles of
Jesus. R4117:2
John 1:41
He first findeth -- The Revised Version may be understood to imply that

both disciples sought their brothers, but that Andrew found his brother
first. John's brother, James, was also later brought to the Lord. R4116:4,
3482:3, 2571:3
Not content to have the great blessing of fellowship with the Lord alone,
they desired to make known their great find. R3482:3
His own brother -- These disciples, in beginning the service of the
truth, went first to their own brethren. This implies that they had
brotherly love in their hearts. R4116:4, 3482:4
Our first duties lie toward those who are near to us, as neighbors,
friends, and especially as members of our own family circles. R3482:4,
2571:3, 2418:5
If a wife should receive the truth, her first joy should be, if possible,
to bring the matter to the attention of her husband; and vice versa.
R4116:5
There is frequently a diffidence about mentioning the Lord and the truth
to those who are of the family and home circle which is certainly much out
of place. True love for our kin should lead us to make an extra and
special effort on their behalf. R2418:5
Let the husband arrange home matters so that the wife may have time for
studying the truth and attending meetings; and the wife arrange matters
for her husband to enjoy the blessings and privilege of study. R4116:4,5
They went first to their brethren, among whom they were esteemed as men of
character and principle. If any of the Lord's people feel impelled to
first go to strangers with the good tidings, it would be a less favorable
sign as to the esteem in which they were held. R4116:4
We have found -- They did not attempt to influence others until they
were fully satisfied themselves and could give a definite positive
message. R3482:3
Note the importance of finding the Lord, and not merely of gaining
information about him. R2572:5
The Messias -- Messias is the Greek spelling of the Hebrew word Messiah,
and is equivalent to the Greek word Christ, which means the Anointed One.
R3482:4, 4116:6
The long-promised seed of Abraham. R5300:5
The word Messiah, Anointed, signifies the great Prophet, Priest and King,
for prophets, priests and kings were anointed to their offices, signifying
that in due time Christ would combine all three of these qualities in
himself. R3482:6
Many have seen or heard of Jesus, as those who were with John the Baptist
heard of him, but have not learned to know him as the Messiah--the Christ.
R3482:5
John 1:42
He brought him -- Like Andrew, we should seek not only to acquaint our
friends with the facts, but to bring them to the Lord for personal contact
with him--spiritual contact that they may see him with the eye of faith.
R2571:4
It is proper and important to seek out the "brethren" and to bring them not
merely to a knowledge of abstract truth, but to bring them especially to the
Lord, and to intimate communion and fellowship with him. R2572:5
Jesus beheld him -- Or, as we might express it, "read him through and
through." R2571:4
Thou art Simon -- Signifying a listener. R2571:5
Thou shalt be called -- Although Peter was the only one of the twelve
whose name was changed, we may readily suppose that the characters of all
were considerably changed. So it is with us all, we will be "transformed
by the renewing of our minds" (Rom. 12:2), and the Lord promises all such
that they shall have a "new name" which none can appreciate except those
who receive it. (Rev. 2:17) R2571:5
Cephas -- Hebrew for Peter (Greek, petros, a stone). This may be
understood as a kind of prophecy on our Lord's part respecting a great
change in Peter's character. Peter was naturally very impulsive, not
sufficiently solid, too easily carried about; and yet our Lord foretold a
change which would make of Peter one of the staunchest and most
substantial of his corps of disciples. R2571:5
A stone -- Thus early did Jesus indicate his knowledge of the man,
recognizing him as one of the living stones for the glorious Temple of the
future, as Peter himself afterward explained. (1 Pet. 2:4, 5) R4116:6
John 1:43
Findeth Philip -- Note the varying methods: John the Baptist announced
Jesus. Andrew and John heard him and sought the Lord. In turn they sought
Peter and James--and now, a third method, the Lord himself found Philip.
Nathanael's case was still different: Philip found him. R3483:1, 2571:5
John 1:44
Bethsaida -- The disciples here mentioned all came from Galilee (Judas
alone being a Judean). Why were they so far from home? We suppose that
they were among the masses who heard of John and left their business to
hear what he had to say, and to join with him in helping to prepare the
way for Messiah. R4117:1
The city of Andrew -- Although Simon Peter and Andrew were natives of
Bethsaida, a few miles north of Capernaum, they evidently settled in the
latter city, perhaps because larger and more favorable to their business.
R3309:1
Philip was doubtless acquainted with Andrew and Peter, since they were of
the same city. R2571:6
John 1:45
Philip findeth -- In line with this principle, sometimes one tract in

the right place has a very far-reaching influence, as was indicated in one
city where one tract under a door reached four persons. R2743:2*
Nathanael -- Commonly understood to be another name for Bartholomew. He
probably, like the others, had been in attendance at John's mission.
R2572:1, 2418:2
Of whom Moses -- It was in types that Moses wrote of Christ and the
blessings to come through him. B177
John had specially drawn attention to the prophecies concerning him, and
by his correspondencies with those prophecies they recognized him. R1695:1
In the law -- In the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Old
Testament. R2571:6
Did write -- He was not a mere enthusiast, but he had been making a
study of the fact that Messiah had been described by Moses and the
prophets and had evidently been endeavoring to test our Lord's title by
those predictions, and had found satisfactory evidence that Jesus was
indeed the Christ, the Sent of God. R2571:6
The son of Joseph -- The reputed son of Joseph. They had not yet learned
that Joseph was not the father of Jesus. R2418:2
John 1:46
Can there any good thing -- Naturally sceptical, fearful that his friend
was being led astray by a false hope to follow a false Messiah. R3483:1,
2572:2 His question and the reasoning which it implies were evidently very
proper. R2572:2
Out of Nazareth -- Nazareth did not have a very savory reputation for
wisdom and piety. On the contrary, the Nazarenes were looked upon as
rather a fanatical people. R3483:2 2572:2
As though to say, "That is a mean city of itself; no great people of any
reputation would ever come from thence; no prophecies, as far as we know,
make any reference to that city." R4117:3, 4556:3
He was of course ignorant of the fact that our Lord was born in Bethlehem,
and taken as an infant to the home of Joseph in Nazareth. R2572:2
Jewish expectation was greatly disappointed. R629:1
Applied to all Galilee. R4556:6
For instance, some of our English friends tells us that when the present
truth was first brought to their attention, they were inclined to
disregard it simply because it came from America. R2418:2
Others will inquire, What denomination backs these religious teachings?
R2418:4
The Lord hides his truth in the sense of permitting it to come through
unpopular channels. Sometimes the unpopularity is deserved and sometimes
undeserved, but it always serves to keep away those who are not in the
right attitude of heart. R3483:2
So it is today, when we say we have found the truth on a subject, they
ask, From whence comes this message? When they are told it is not from the
great and mighty, they ask, "What could you expect from such a source?"
R4117:3
As the wrong impression that our Lord was born in Nazareth reflected upon
him, some today scoff: Can any good come out of the prophecies relating to
the second coming? R5374:2
Come and see -- Investigate, test the matter for yourself by the Word of
God, if you are not satisfied. R4117:3, 3483:2, 2418:4
Come and see for yourselves that the power and wisdom of Jehovah rested
upon his Anointed. R1695:4
Philip did not attempt to explain matters which are difficult to be
understood, and which had not yet been explained to him; nor did he waver
in his faith because of this suggestion of doubt. R2572:2
Matters often look different on the outside from what they appear on the
inside. Philip suggested, Come on the inside and see how it looks; take
the standpoint of faith in the divine revelation, and from that standpoint
note the grandeur of the divine plan. (Illustrated by an anecdote of
Spurgeon's.) R2572:4
John 1:47
Nathanael coming -- How glad we would be if all our dear friends were to
take the course that Nathanael took to seek the Lord and his protection
and his guidance, and then to investigate, proving all things by the Word
of God! R4117:4
An Israelite indeed -- Giving the suggestion that it is entirely right
for us to express at proper times our confidence in the religious
character of those with whom we are conversing, in no sense manifesting a
doubt of the sincerity of any who are not fully with us in every point of
faith and doctrine. R3483:4
Pure in heart, pure in motive. R5809:6
Not only of the circumcision of the flesh, but also of the heart. SM403:1
The Lord first gathered out the faithful remnant from amongst the Jews,
and not finding enough, he proceeded to gather them from all nations.
R4964:5, 5809:6, 5470:3
In whom is no guile -- Without hypocrisy. R3483:4
His honesty of heart made him worthy of the blessings of which the mass of
his nation were not worthy. R4117:5
John 1:48
Whence knowest thou me? -- Evidently taking it that the Lord was
flattering him, he rather repelled at first this forwardness on the Lord's
part to speak of him in such praiseworthy terms without a knowledge of
him. R3483:4
Under the fig tree -- We are not told what took place under the fig
tree, but we imagine that he there prayed to the heavenly Father for
wisdom, guidance, instruction and protection from deception. R3483:5
Doubtless he went to the fig tree as a closet for prayer, for the fig tree
has foliage which hangs low and would constitute quite an arbor or shelter
and a very suitable place for privacy and prayer. R3483:5
I saw thee -- The power of discerning of spirits (of reading the
thoughts and intents of the hearts) and of working miracles was granted to
him. Later the same gifts were granted to the apostles, and for the same
purposes. R1695:4
John 1:49
Rabbi -- Master. R4117:6

Thou art the Son of God -- To hear this one refer to his very prayer, of
which not a soul in the world had knowledge, meant to Nathanael that the
Lord had supervised in the matter and had full knowledge of all his
affairs. R3483:5
The one who could know about his prayer and could thus answer it and
reveal himself must indeed be superhuman--all that he claimed; the
Messiah. R4117:6
King of Israel -- Not the ten tribes only; the term Jew had come to be
synonymous with the term Israel, and the terms are used interchangeable in
the New Testatment. The people never thought about a King of Judah. The
twelve tribes as one nation is meant. R2085:1, 1341:1
John 1:51
Ye -- All of his disciples, all who follow in the narrow way. R3483:6
The angels of God -- The messengers of God, the "princes" of the new
dispensation, Jacob himself being one of the communicating messengers. D629
Communication between the two phases of the Kingdom will be easy and
direct, the "princes" being the channels of divine communication. D629
Ascending and descending -- Calling attention to Jacob and the vision
which he had at Bethel of a ladder (Gen. 28:10-12), illustrating the
methods of divine grace. Our Lord himself was the ladder upon which
communication between heaven and earth would be re-established. R3483:6
Jacob's dream of the ladder between heaven and earth, and the passing to
and fro of the messengers was a prophecy as well as a dream, foreshadowing
the coming close communication between the Heavenly Kingdom and the world.
D629
Upon the Son of man -- Our Lord Jesus and the Church associated with him
constitute the ladder of communication between God and the world of
mankind during the Millennial age. R4118:4
John 2
John 2:1
The third day -- The third day from the calling of Nathanael to
discipleship. R2418:3
The marriage of the Lamb will be in the third thousand-year day of her
existence as the Body of Christ, and in the seventh of the world's
history. R1695:5
A marriage -- The Lord's consecrated people are symbolized not only by
the water-pots and by the servants who fill them, but also by the bride at
the marriage. R3164:5
The joy and blessings of Christ's Kingdom, both to the Church, his Bride,
and also to the world, will follow the marriage of the Lamb. R1695:3
In Cana -- Cana was near to Nazareth, for many years the home of Jesus,
and quite probably those who invited him, his mother and his disciples,
were either relatives or close acquaintances. R2418:3
The home city of Nathanael, one of the latest additions to the number of
our Lord's disciples. Apparently it was Nathanael who had invited our Lord
and the other disciples to be his guests at Cana. R3484:1
John 2:2
To the marriage -- The fact that our Lord was willing to attend the
wedding implies a sympathy with the marriage institution. R2418:3
The asceticism illustrated by monks and nuns was not a part of his
teaching, either in word or in example. His consecrated life was lived in
the midst of ordinary social conditions. R3484:2
There is no suggestion of revelry or foolishness in our Lord's conduct,
but it is reasonable to assume that he participated in the proper joys and
fellowships and social amenities of such an occasion. R3484:2
John 2:3
Saith unto him -- Mary's long acquaintance with and dependance on her
son had made her aware of his superior judgment and resourcefulness in all
events and on all occasions. R3484:1
They have no wine -- The customary hospitality of the Jews indicated an
abundance of wine would have been supplied for the large number of guests
anticipated because of the Lord's presence at the marriage feast. R3484:2
Not only running low, but exhausted, so that the miracle would not be
minimized by the admixture of the new with the old. R3484:6
Implying that Mary knew the hosts intimately, for such scarcity of
provision would be carefully kept from the knowledge of outsiders who
might be guests. R2418:3
From this it has been assumed that she anticipated the miracle. We cannot
agree because it is particularly stated that this was the beginning of
Jesus' miracles. R3484:1, 2418:6
John 2:4
Woman -- While a proper translation, it does not give the elegant

shading of the Greek original, which would much more nearly signify lady.
The word is the same that the Emperor of Rome used in complimentary
address to the Queen of Egypt. R3484:5
The "woman," the Church, need not yet inquire for the new wine of joy. The
hour for exaltation and glory has not yet come, and as yet we have to do
only with the dregs of the cup of humiliation and sacrifice. R1695:5
What have I to do -- More properly, "Do not attempt to dictate to me. I
will know what to do when the appropriate time comes." R3484:5
Calling his mother's attention to the fact that while he had, in every
sense of the word, been a dutiful son for thirty years, he had now reached
the period of manhood, according to the Law, and was now consecrated to
the Lord. R2418:6
"What [is that] to me and to thee, O woman?" (Diaglott) R1695:5
Not yet -- Mary was intent on hiding the fact of the shortage of wine;
Jesus performed the miracle, less for the assistance of the bridegroom
than for the lesson which, through the servants, would become known to the
entire company. R3484:5
Come -- Greek, heko, signifying to arrive, or have come, or came, as
when the action of coming is completed. B158
The first six months of the Jewish harvest was almost a blank. The time
for Christ to really begin was at the spring Passover. And next to nothing
was known of the Gospel harvest until the spring of 1875, after the first
six months were passed. HG73:2
John 2:5
Do it -- The Christian cannot do better than adopt these words as one of

the mottos of his life--Whatsoever my Lord saith unto me, I will do it.
R3163:3
How important the lesson that it is not merely the hearing of the Gospel
which brings blessings to the heart, but obedience to the glad tidings.
R3163:2
In due time faithful obedience to all his directions will be amply
rewarded by the privilege of participating with him in the joys of the
Kingdom, the "new wine." R1695:5
A further evidence that she was on terms of very close intimacy in that
home, for otherwise servants would not be prepared to take orders from one
of the guests. R3484:6, 2418:3
John 2:6
Six -- Might indicate that it refers to the Lord's people in the present
time of evil, because the number six is a symbol for imperfection and evil
conditions, as seven is the symbol for completeness and perfection.
R3164:1 Waterpots -- The water-pots symbolize the Lord's people. R3164:1
Probably intended for the use of the guests for washing their hands, which
had become an important part of Jewish observance. We nowhere find these
washings and water-pots referred to in the Law. R4919:1
Ordinary water-jars, to prevent any suspicion of their containing any
powders or mixtures that might constitute a basis for the miracle.
R3485:2, 2419:1
Purifying of the Jews -- Divine truth, having accomplished its
cleansing, purifying work by its blessed inspiration to godliness and
holiness, will be gloriously realized in the blessings and joys of the
Kingdom. R1695:5
Two or three -- Our vessels may not be all of the same size; capacities
and opportunities may vary, but each must be filled full--no more, no
less. R3164:3
Firkins -- Containing nine gallons each. R3485:1
The six held about one hundred and twenty gallons of water for the supply
of the many guests. R2419:1
John 2:7
Jesus saith -- As one of the guests whose entertainment had helped to

exhaust the wine, he would be pleased to take some steps to assist in
replenishing the supply. R3484:6
Fill -- "Be ye filled with the spirit." (Eph. 5:18) Draw abundantly from
the fountains of grace and truth, nor cease until we are filled with the
spirit to the brim--completely. R3164:1
Those who neglect to use their opportunities zealously, neglecting to be
filled with the spirit of truth, are correspondingly partially filled with
the spirit of the world. R3164:5
So with us, as members of the human family, our life forces are well
exhausted through the fall. The filling foreshadows full and complete
justification to life. R3485:4
Thus during the Millennial age the servants of the truth will fill up all
of mankind who are suitable vessels and all thus filled with the truth,
under our Lord's direction, shall find the truth in them transformed into
the wine of joy. R2419:4, 1695:5
With water -- Water is used in the Scriptures as a symbol of life, the
"water of life." (Rev. 22:17) R3485:4
The symbol for the truth. R3164:1, 2419:1, 1695:5
To the brim -- To hinder anyone from thinking that something was added
to the water by our Lord. R3485:2
John 2:8
Draw out now -- The change from water to wine being evidently
instantaneous. R3485:2
John 2:9
The ruler -- The governor of the symbolic feast who pronounced the new
wine to be of the very finest quality, aptly symbolizes the Heavenly
Father. R3164:5
Made wine -- Illustrating the impartation of a new nature by miraculous
change. We are "transformed by the renewing of our minds." (Rom. 12:2)
R3485:4
Likewise the Lord has promised a still greater change to his faithful
followers who receive the treasure of divine truth into "earthen vessels."
They shall be "changed" in a moment from the human nature to the divine
nature. R3164:2
The water will ultimately be changed into wine--the symbol for unalloyed
pleasure, heavenly joys. R3164:2
We recognize in the exhilarating wine an apt symbol of joy and gladness.
R1695:2
It cannot be claimed for our Lord Jesus that he was a total abstainer from
alcoholic liquors; and the claim made by some that the word "wine" here
mentioned signifies a non-intoxicating wine, is not true. R2419:4, 509:5
Everything seems to teach that it was slightly alcoholic, the alcohol
being produced in the wine through the processes of fermentation,
resulting in what is known as light wine. R3484:6
It can be said that many of the wines of that vicinity and time contained
much less alcohol than do many of the wines of today. R2419:1
We believe in total abstinence because of the present distress, because of
the increased expenditure of nervous energy and consequent increased
danger of inebriety, and not because the Scriptures specially enjoin total
abstinence. R3485:1
Under the rule which Paul gives (1 Cor. 8:13), the disuse of wine as a
beverage is certainly commendable under present conditions, while its
limited used as a medicine is warranted by 1Tim. 5:23. R1695:6
It is our opinion that if the Lord were living where we do, and now, he
would be a total abstainer from alcoholic liquors, not only on his own
account, but also as an example for others. R2419:1, 1101:5
This occurrence has no more bearing on the temperance question than had
the taking of a colt to fulfil the prophecy of Zech. 9:9 (Matt. 21:5) a
bearing on the question of the rights of private property. R1695:6
John 2:10
Well drunk -- Not implying that the people were drunk, intoxicated, and
that they had thus lost their taste or judgment. R3484:6
The good wine -- We cannot think that at an ordinary feast simple grape
juice would be regarded as superior wine, nor on the other hand need we
suppose that the wine which Jesus made contained such a proportion of
alcohol as would make it injurious to the users. R3485:2
Until now -- Already we partake of the "wine on the lees" (Isa. 25:6);
but present joys are but foretastes of coming realities. The best of the
wine comes at the end of the feast, when our heavenly Bridegroom shall
have changed us to his own image and likeness. R3164:3
John 2:11
Beginning of miracles -- Giving emphatic contradiction to the apocryphal

legends which accredit to our Lord various miracles previous to this time.
R3163:2
Manifested forth -- Showed beforehand. R2000:5
Foreshadowing things to be done by and by. R5065:3, 5780:4; OV214:4
Or, typifying. R1695:2
Manifesting beforehand the glorious blessings which the Kingdom, when
established, will exercise amongst men. R4557:5, 4137:3, 526:5; PD64/74;
SM569:1
Justifying the thought of a spiritual significance to the wine. R3485:5
Many of our Lord's works were of an outward, visible kind, intended for
the enlightenment of his followers, for the establishment of his
Messiahship, and for the manifestation of his future work for the world.
R5920:6
Our Lord's miracles were not foolish deeds for the benefit of the curious.
It was by these that the Israelites were to recognize him as Messiah, in
fulfillment of the predictions of the prophets. R1314:6
Thus did Jesus preach by word and illustration the coming emancipation of
mankind from the thraldom of disease and death. R241:1; SM569:1
His glory -- The coming glory of the Millennial age. R2000:5, 5920:3,
5485:1, 1695:2; OV214:4; SM569:1
John 2:12
After this -- Residing in Nazareth with his mother and brethren until
the time of John's imprisonment and the consequent stoppage of his mission
work. R2245:2
His mother, and his brethren -- At that time our Lord, his mother and
brethren moved as a family to Capernaum. R2245:3
John 2:13
The Jews' passover -- It was a requirement of the Jewish Law that the
devout of the nation should assemble at the Passover season. Josephus
tells us that sometimes the population of Jerusalem on such occasions was
swelled to the number of two millions. R4122:6
John 2:14
In the temple -- Not in the Temple proper, but in its outer courts, the
whole of which was designated the Temple or the house of God. This trading
was probably carried on in what was known as the Court of the Gentiles.
R4123:1
That sold oxen -- The multitude of strangers from afar rarely brought
with them the doves, pigeons or lambs which they presented in sacrifice.
The supply of these animals for sacrifice became quite a business on such
occasions. R4122:6
Changers of money -- There was a certain Temple tax levied, which must
be paid in a particular kind of money called the shekel of the sanctuary.
The last coinage of these was in BC 140, hence they were quite scarce in
our Lord's day, and sold at a premium. R4122:6
Roman coinage was circulated throughout Palestine in general
merchandizing, hence not only visitors from foreign lands needed to
purchase shekels of the sanctuary, but also the home folk. R4122:6
John 2:15
Scourge of small cords -- A fit emblem of the harmonious doctrines of

Christ, which are accomplishing the cleansing work here. R1696:1
These could not have done serious damage to anyone, but we do not even
know that our Lord used it upon humanity. He may have driven out the
animals, whose owners would follow them. R4123:2
Drove them all out -- The antitypical cleansing of the Lord's Temple has
been in progress since the spring of 1878. R4123:3, 1696:1
In this time of cleansing, sifting and purifying of the Temple of God,
none will be permitted to remain in it whose purpose is in any way to make
merchandise of God's holy things. R1696:4
It is claimed that any Jew under the Law had the right to do as Jesus did
in the matter of driving out the traders, but very evidently no Jew had
previously attempted it. R4123:1
Because the incident is grouped with others which occurred in the
beginning of the Lord's ministry it is assumed, we believe without
sufficient authority, that there were two cleansings, the one at the
beginning, the other at the close of our Lord's ministry. R4122:3, 1695:4
Perhaps the apostles, unlearned men, not regularly educated historians,
recorded the wonderful works of their teacher and saw little necessity for
order or sequence; or perhaps our Lord designed the confusion of the
record that only the faithful might rightly divide the word of truth.
R2332:1
Poured out -- Not only stopping their usurious exchange business, but
keeping them busy looking after their coin. R4123:2
John 2:16
And said unto them -- The cleansing of the Temple has a peculiar
significance when we remember that it followed our Lord's assumption of
the office of King. R4122:3, 4123:2, 2332:1, 1695:6
Take these things hence -- He did not set at liberty the doves, which
could not so easily have been recovered. R4123:2
House of merchandise -- Within the hallowed precincts of the nominal
temple of today are many who have long been making merchandise of their
privileges, opportunities, and knowledge. R4123:3
Roman Catholics are expected to pay the priesthood for every birth and the
baptism of a child; at every service, that they may be participants in the
blessings of the common mass; for every blessed scapular sprinkled with
holy water; for every funeral service and for every prayer; as well as for
the privilege of being buried in holy ground. R4123:3
As Protestants represent a more intelligent class, the exactions upon them
by the clergy are the more refined. Nevertheless strong impression is
sought to be made upon all that membership is necessary to salvation, and
that liberality to the church of one's choice is a necessity. R4123:4
As the necessities of the people were taken advantage of, and high prices
charged, our Lord called the place "a den of thieves." (Matt. 21:13)
R4123:1
John 2:17
The zeal -- Our Lord's zeal in cleansing the Temple of all merchandise
would be considered by some as very appropriate, and by others as very
extreme. R5250:1
Zeal is that which is warm, aglow, hot. R5250:2
Of thine house -- The Lord's house, in that case, was the Temple; but a
still deeper meaning is indicated by the declaration that the Church is
his house, the house of God. The real house of God for which Jesus had
zeal was the house of sons. R5250:1, 1453:6
Hath eaten me up -- We use the word burn, consume, in much the same way
as we use the word rust in iron. The zeal for the Lord's house, for the
Lord's people, consumed his time and strength in helping them. R5250:2
The Lord invites the Church to be similarly consumed with him, consumed as
the Master was consumed, in the service of the Church, which is his body.
R5250:2
Our Lord's zeal has not cost him his heavenly home, his heavenly estate;
but, on the contrary, God has highly exalted him to a higher position,
preparing him for the high reward of the divine nature R5250:4
Fulfilled just before the crucifixion. R4123:2
John 2:18
What sign -- What sign of authority by which he cleansed the Temple.

Jesus pointed forward to his future power, after his death and
resurrection. He had no authority to begin the actual work then; that
which he did was only typical. R1696:1
John 2:19
Destroy -- The Sanhedrin decided that Jesus was a blasphemer in saying

this, and also in claiming that he was the Son of God. R5421:2, 4711:5,
3888:4
In three days -- Our Lord died in the year of the world 4161. Four days
had passed, the fifth day had begun. We are now in the beginning of the
seventh day--"very early in the morning" (Psa. 46:5), when the Lord
promised the resurrection should be completed. R3375:2
Rearing them up on the third day, the third thousand-year day from the
time of his death, the dawning of the great Sabbath. R5714:4, 4124:1,
2874:2, 2795:2, 198:3*
"I do cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I shall be perfected."
(Luke 13:32) R2294:4
The same three days mentioned in Hos. 6:2, "After two days he will revive
us; in the third day he will raise us up, and we shall live in his sight."
R2294:5
What was true of him personally on the third day, of twenty-four hours, is
true of his Body, the Church, in the third day, of a thousand years each.
R92:4*
Called to mind by the two on the way to Emmaus. (Luke 24:13-35) B114
Harmonizing this with the fact that our Lord knew not the time of his
second advent, he either here spoke prophetically (by the spirit of
prophecy) or, knowing it as the third thousand-year period, did not know
what day and hour in that period he would be present and his work begin.
Q635:1
I will -- He himself was raised from the dead "on the third day,"
literally, but it was not by his own power--God highly exalted him.
R2874:3, 2795:2
Raise it up -- Raise the Church, his Body, from ruin to the perfection
and glory of the Millennial Kingdom. R3081:1, 2294:4
John 2:21
Of the temple -- The Scriptures repeatedly tell us that the Church is

"the body of Christ." The Apostle Peter declares that each of the Lord's
saints is a living stone prepared for and being placed in the glorious
Temple. R2294:2
Of his body -- The Temple of God being the body of believers,
individually and corporately, "the habitation of God through the Spirit."
This is the primary and literal use of the phrase in the New Testament.
R638:3
His body is the Church. The Jews destroyed the Head, and all down through
the Gospel age the various members of the Body of Christ have been called
upon to "suffer with him." R3375:2, 3375:2, 2294:4
As Solomon dedicated the Temple, so the Church of Christ will be
dedicated, formally presented to the Father. R5714:4
The disciples evidently got the thought that he referred to his fleshly
body as the Temple of God, and supposed that the Lord's prediction was
fulfilled three days after his crucifixion. We cannot so view the matter,
it was the new creature, and not the flesh, that was born on the third
day. R4123:5
His fleshly body was not his Temple, but merely his tabernacle. R3375:2
John 2:24
Because he knew -- Jesus did not trust them; for he knew the fickleness
of their hearts, and having the gift also of discerning of spirits, he
needed not that any man should testify of them, for he knew what was in
them. R1696:4
John 3
John 3:1
Nicodemus -- An influential man amongst the Jews, a member of the

Sanhedrin, and widely known as a professor of holiness--of full
consecration to God--a Pharisee. R4124:3, 2572:3
Above average in piety and considerably impressed with what he had heard
respecting the Lord's teachings. NS98:3
His wealth and learning gave him advantages over many of the poor and
unlearned, and yet they also brought disadvantages: "How hardly shall they
that have riches enter into the kingdom of God." (Luke 18:24) R2572:3
On various occasions he manifested sincerity and considerable faith in our
Lord and sympathy with his cause. His sympathy continued, as evidenced by
the fact that he requested the privilege of burying our Lord's body.
R3485:3
We know not what may have been the end of his course, but we fear that
while he was too good to be an opponent of the truth, he had not enough
stamina in character to be one of the Lord's disciples. R3485:3
John 3:2
The same came -- Evidently early in our Lord's ministry. R3485:3

Nicodemus discerned the wide difference between the Jewish hopes of an
earthly kingdom and the kind proclaimed by Jesus and his disciples. We may
reasonably infer that his queries were along this line. R2572:3; NS100:5
To Jesus -- It was his desire for the truth which led him to seek it
from the lips of one of no reputation amongst the worldly wise. R2421:2
By night -- Semi-secretly. R2572:3
Not necessarily from fear; possibly wisdom guided him, a prudent
recognition of the interests of others as well as of his own. Possibly
because he might have a better opportunity for private conversation with
the Master. R4124:3
No fault for this: during the day our Lord was busy teaching and a visit
would have been an interruption; besides, Nicodemus had no right to cast
the influence of his presence and office on the side of our Lord until he
had in some degree satisfied himself on the subject. R3485:3
Probably because of adverse public sentiment, especially among the
Pharisees. He was anxious to solve the mystery, yet apparently ashamed to
acknowledge publicly that such claims had any weight upon his mind. A277
Being prominent, so that the common people might not be encouraged
thereby, and that the ecclesiastical leaders might not be offended. NS98:3
To protect influence and social standing, as well as possibly with a hope
to have a more quiet conversation. R2572:3
He displayed the ignoble element of his disposition by coming privately,
secretly, at night, whereas he should have acted up to his convictions
fairly, and have come forward to inquire of the Lord, if not in public, at
least in daylight and openly. R2421:3
Many Christians of the Nicodemus type have a standing in the nominal
church and great respect for the "honor of one another." (John 5:44)
R2421:3
Similarly, there are people today hindered, as was Nicodemus, by their
station, education, reputation, etc., from taking a stand for the truth.
Their riches and reputation are hindrances to them. NS98:3
And said -- Evidently but a small portion of this conference is
furnished us, the questions being asked relating to the Kingdom of God,
which John the Baptist had declared was at hand, and our Lord declared to
be at the door. R2421:6
Rabbi -- Or, Teacher. R4124:4
He was very reverential and courteous. R4124:4
favorite with the Pharisees. R1459:6
Thou art a teacher -- You and your disciples proclaim "The kingdom of
heaven is at hand." But you have neither an army, wealth or influence, and
to all appearances your claim is a fraud. A277; R837:2
Nicodemus had nobility of mind to discern that Jesus was not an imposter.
R2421:2
Come from God -- A servant of God, in whom God evidently delighted, as
manifested by his miracles. R4124:4
Except God -- I am convinced that you are a teacher sent of God, for
your miracles attest this. R837:2
My fellow Pharisees regard you as an imposter, but as I said before, I am
sure there must be some truth in your teachings, for no man can do these
miracles except God be with him. R837:3
Evidently he had been impressed by the teachings and miracles, although
not ready to confess him the Messiah. R2572:3
With that much evidence in hand he would have been fully justified in
going to our Lord in a public way, acknowledging as much as he saw and
asking for further proofs. R3485:6
Evidencing that the Pharisees were blinded by their own willful prejudice
beyond that prejudice engendered by the fall. R724:1
John 3:3
Except a man -- If only those regenerated by the holy Spirit

are to be saved, then the entire heathen world and almost the entire bulk
of Christendom will be lost. Therefore many prefer not to believe this
doctrine. NS99:2
Be born again -- Born anew. R4124:5, 2572:6
Therefore a new creature in Christ Jesus, to whom "all things have become
new." (2 Cor. 5:17) NS102:1
Regeneration by the holy Spirit is the same thought. NS98:6
The same Greek word gennao is used in referring to both the begetting and
the birth. A278; R4125:4, 2573:1, 1445:5; HG366:4; NS100:3
It is our opinion that the translation "born" is correct, except in verses
3 and 7, where we think the significance is begotten. R837:2
Sometimes the translation is dependent upon the nature of the act, whether
masculine or feminine. Thus used in connection with ek, signifying from or
out of, it should be translated born. A278
In our common translation it is rendered beget, conceive, begotten, as
well as born, delivered, bear. R836:6
When God is associated with the matter he is always regarded as of the
masculine gender; hence gennao, when used in connection with God, as in
this instance, should be always rendered beget or begotten. R837:1
Begetting of the Spirit should be understood wherever the word is used in
connection with the present life, while birth of the Spirit should be
understood as relating to the future life entered upon by a resurrection.
HG366:4
Whenever the word "gennao" is used figuratively respecting the beginning
of the word of grace in the heart it should be translated begotten or
begetting; and whenever it refers to the completion of this work of grace,
in the resurrection, it should be rendered birth or born. NS100:4
Should be rendered begotten, because to introduce the subject of the
second birth (resurrection) so abruptly would be unreasonable, while to
introduce the new begetting would be highly proper. R837:2
There are two thoughts behind this one word--the thought of begetting,
and, after gestation, ultimately birth. R3486:2, 1445:4
Except a man be both begotten and born again he cannot see the Kingdom of
God. R1445:5
Not merely the begetting of the Spirit, as at consecration, but also the
birth of the Spirit, in resurrection. R2980:4, 3175:1, 1510:5 HG129:3,
145:3
Only one who is begotten of the Spirit can be born of the Spirit, just as
birth in the natural life follows only upon begetting. HG132:4, 366:4;
NS101:3
Just as there is a begetting of the fleshly being, then the quickening and
finally the birth, so also with the spiritual ones. The Christian is first
begotten of the Spirit (begotten again--1 Pet. 5:3), then quickened by the
Spirit (Rom. 8:11) and then having attained to full development as an
embryotic new creature, he will be "born of the Spirit" in the
resurrection. Q749:2; NS101:4
To participate in the resurrection to spirit nature we must now be
begotten of the holy Spirit, and must then be chastened, developed and
fitted for the spirit conditions. NS101:6
As Jesus was begotten of the Spirit at his baptism, so he was born of the
Spirit at his resurrection. R1278:4
Beyond all contradiction, the resurrection is a birth. Hence, if
conversion is also a birth, a man must be born three times in order to
inherit the Kingdom of God. HG63:3
The begetting of this new nature comes only to believers, already
justified by faith in the Redeemer. R1510:5
The Master used the natural order or arrangement to represent the
spiritual. Q749:2
The word "born" is properly enough used here and in verse 5, and thus we
learn that the Lord had reference to the future--to the resurrection
birth. R3485:6
A Scriptural use of the word, for we read that our Lord Jesus in his
resurrection was the "first-born from the dead." (Col. 1:18) R2573:1,
2422:2, 189:1
Our Lord's resurrection is referred to three other times as a birth from
the dead, but our Common Version has beclouded the thought by giving the
word begotten instead of born. (Acts 13:33; Heb. 1:5; 5:5) NS101:3
When we present ourselves to God in consecration, and our sacrifice is
accepted of him, we die as men; but we are likewise begotten to the new
nature. This new life, begotten from above, continues to grow by the
assimilation of spiritual nourishment, until it will, in due time, be born
a fully developed spirit being, like unto our Lord. R5580:1
For God to interfere with human pro-creation and insert a Platonic "spark
of deity" into every babe would make this text meaningless, by implying
that man's begetting and God's begetting are simultaneous. R3774:2
Throughout the New Testament, the regeneration of the Church is the topic,
because this Gospel age is chiefly intended for the development of the
Little Flock. Nevertheless, those of the world who would attain eternal
life in the next age must pass through like experiences. The world must be
born again, or regenerated--not, however, to spirit nature, but to human
nature. NS102:2
Jesus calls the great Millennial age and work regeneration--Greek,
palingenesia. This is not the same word rendered "born again," but
signifies more nearly restitution, restoration or renovation. R2574:4
Children are not begotten of the spirit unless they accept the privilege
at maturity. HG129:4
Cannot see -- For flesh and blood cannot inherit the Kingdom of God. (1
Cor. 15:50) T23
Greek, eidon, to know or be acquainted with the Kingdom of God. Translated
"consider" in Acts 15:6 and "behold" in Rom. 11:22 and 1John 3:1,
substantiating that Jesus meant that except a man be begotten of the
Spirit he cannot know, understand, or be acquainted with the doctrines and
facts relative to the spiritual kingdom. R837:3; A278
Your request to have a full understanding regarding the Kingdom of heaven
cannot be answered to your satisfaction; not that I do not know about it
fully, but, in your present condition, you could not understand it. A278;
R837:3
The intimation was that the kingdom would be an invisible kingdom, that
none could even see it, except he would be born again. R2421:6
The Kingdom of Heaven would be so different from what he was expecting.
The Kingdom of God will be a spiritual one, and all who will be members of
it will be spirit beings, as invisible to mankind as are the angels at the
present time. NS100:6
As a man cannot see trees, houses and flowers, nor enjoy these, until
after being born of the flesh, so likewise no one can either see or enter
into the heavenly Kingdom, except he be born of the Spirit. R2572:6
Earthly beings can see earthly beings, but as "no man hath seen God at any
time" (John 1:18), none will be able with the natural eye to see the
These born-again ones out of the resurrection alone enter into the
Kingdom, alone see the Kingdom. Mankind in general will not see the
Kingdom members, the Bridegroom and the Bride, because these will all "be
changed." (1Cor. 15:51) HG366:5
Since flesh cannot see, cannot enter into, cannot inherit the Kingdom of
God (1 Cor. 15:50), we should not imagine the King himself to be flesh;
and the members of his Body, the Church, must be "changed" and be made
like him. (1 John 3:2) R1952:6
The Jews restored will be natural men, bearing the image of the earthly,
and such can neither see nor inherit the real Kingdom of God. R56:5*
We, the Church of translation, must go up into the great Kingdom--enter
into the joys of our Lord and be in his likeness--before we can see as we
are seen and know as we are known. The Bride can only be seen from the
standpoint of the Kingdom. R113:1
"The glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it
together." (Isa. 40:5) Yet none but the holy see the King, and none but
those born of the spirit--spiritual bodies--can see the Kingdom of God.
R153:5
Our Lord would not put a patch upon the Jewish system and call it
Christianity, but he established a totally new thing; those who would
enter his Kingdom must first be begotten again, and ultimately born again,
before they would share it. R2134:2
The kingdom of God -- As a student of the Scriptures, he knew to expect
the Kingdom. Having confidence in Jesus, he wished to learn particulars
respecting the Kingdom. R4124:5
John 3:4
How can a man -- Such a question was desired by our Lord and gave
opportunity for the explanation that the first birth to human nature with
a flesh body is a type of a higher spiritual birth to a spiritual nature
with a spirit body. R2572:6
Nicodemus had never heard of a spiritual kingdom, and failed totally to
realize our Lord's meaning. NS101:1
Be born -- Correctly rendered born, as the association is feminine.
R837:2
Into his mother's womb -- You cannot mean that he must be born again
from his mother? R837:4
John 3:5
Be born -- In verses 5, 6 and 8, "born" is undoubtedly the correct

translation, because water, flesh, and spirit, are treated as feminine,
the literal meaning of the Greek being "born out of water, flesh and spirit."
R837:2
Of water -- The reform of heart and life. R837:4
No Jew could become a follower of the Lord Jesus and enter into the
Kingdom, until first of all he had experienced reformation and been
baptized, "born of water"; in addition to this there must be the begetting
of the spirit, and then, in the resurrection, the birth to the spirit
nature. Q796:4
The reference to water would probably, in the mind of Nicodemus, recall
the water baptism for the remission of sins, and as a sign of repentance
which John the Baptist and his disciples had been preaching. R4124:6
Associating John's baptism of water unto repentance with the spirit
begetting which began at Pentecost. Repentance from sin was essential to
the right condition of heart which would prepare a Jew for transfer from
the earthly kingdom to the heavenly. R2572:6
The baptism of John the Immerser represented in symbol a change of mind, a
beginning of life anew. R837:4
Israel was a consecrated nation, a covenanted people, baptized into Moses
in the sea and in the cloud. The baptism of John signified a repentance,
and not the new birth. A279; Q796:4
Water may have a fuller significance. We see that symbolical water
represents truth, and that our begetting of the holy Spirit is said to be
also a begetting "through the Word of truth." (Jas. 1:18) R4124:6, 3600:6,
2422:1
Our regeneration or begetting again of the holy Spirit, and our renewing
by it, comes to us in conjunction with the washing or cleansing which is
effected to us by the operation of the Truth--the divine message. R4125:1
Symbolized in Israel's Tabernacle service, in which the priests, before
entering the Holy and thus typically becoming new creatures, washed at the
laver. R4125:1
The Apostle refers to the bath of a new birth, the making new by the holy
Spirit. (Titus 3:5) R2422:6
At the laver the new life of the Christian begins. Here the begetting of
the Spirit and the Word takes place. It is reckoned as a full birth and
symbolized by the rising from the watery grave--the grave of the old
carnal nature. R117:5*
The Word does teach water immersion, and all of the Lord's people who
discern this teaching would and should be glad to obey it, but we fail to
see that the Lord has laid such a stress upon water immersion. R3600:6,
2422:5
The Lord refers here to the true baptism, which is merely symbolized by
immersion in water, and the rising out of it. R2422:5
And of the Spirit -- Such a change of heart and life, as shown by John's
baptism, was necessary, but more is necessary: the still higher begetting
and birth of which I am now telling you. R837:4; A279
Repentance will bring you back to a justified condition; in that condition
you will be able readily to recognize me as Messiah; and thus consecrating
to me, you will be begotten of the Father to a new life and the divine
nature. A279
Born from the dead, by the power of God, as a spirit being. R2422:5
From the Spirit. R1189:3
Enter into -- In the sense of share, or partake of, as in other cases
where the same Greek word is used. The Lord spoke of those who would share
in, or be members of the Kingdom or ruling power as royal officers, and
not of those millions who should be blessed by the Kingdom, and be under
it as subjects, blessed and ruled by it. R837:6
John 3:6
Born of the flesh -- All recognize that this expression does not mean
merely begotten of the flesh, but a birth into independent flesh-life as a
result of the begetting and gestation. R2422:1; NS100:3
As there cannot be any birth of the flesh without first a begetting of the
flesh, so there can be no birth of the spirit without first a begetting of
the spirit. R4125:3, 2573:1
Is flesh -- Human nature. R4793:6
The term flesh as used in the New Testament evidently refers to humanity
as a whole, and not to what covers our bones, in common parlance called
flesh. R89:2
To be begotten of an earthly father and later to be born of an earthly
mother would insure that the progeny would be earthly also. R3486:1
The natural birth of the flesh is a figure or symbol illustrative of a new
birth, a spirit birth. R4124:6, 3486:1, 3250:3
The claim is made that Adam died a spiritual death; but nothing in the
Scriptures informs us that he was a spirit being. On the contrary, the
Scriptures tell us that he was of the earth, earthy. R2841:1
Fleshly beings cannot see spirit beings. HG366:3
"Flesh and blood cannot enter the kingdom of heaven." (1 Cor. 15:50)
NS100:1
Jesus as a man was born of a woman and was flesh, thus taking human
nature. R122:3*
Born -- Whoever is not begotten of the Spirit can never hope to be born
of the Spirit. R2422:4
There must also be a period of gestation for the spiritual new creature
that will precede its resurrection birth. All who will share in the
spiritual Kingdom as spirit beings must first be begotten of the Spirit
and subsequently be developed of the Spirit. R3486:1, 2422:2; Q822:3
Of the Spirit -- The article "the" does not appear in the Greek text.
R4124:6
The holy Spirit, in this sense of the word, is guaranteed only to the
house of sons. E177
The Spirit of God, the spirit of holiness, the spirit of the truth. R2422:1
Is spirit -- Since there are two distinct kinds of bodies, we know that
the spiritual, whatever it may be, is not composed of flesh, blood and
bones: it is heavenly, celestial, spiritual. A182
The spirit-begotten and spirit-born class, the Little Flock, which will
inherit the Kingdom, will not be flesh-beings in any sense of the word,
but spirit beings. R2422:1
The human body would no longer be suitable. He must have again a spirit
body. R2318:2
The Spirit's work for us will not be finished until we are born of the
Spirit, and then we will be spirit, and being like him, we shall see him
as he is. R103:4*
The Church is spoken of as being spiritual, inasmuch as she is in harmony
with the Lord and is declared to be begotten again by the Spirit to a new
nature, a spirit nature. E175
From this statement he would understand that the Kingdom would not be a
fleshly or earthly one, but a spirit Kingdom, a heavenly Kingdom. R4124:6,
3082:3, 2422:1
Therefore our Lord's resurrection body was not the same body that hung
upon the cross and was laid in Joseph's tomb, merely caused to shine and
therefore called a glorious body, a spiritual body. R1856:3, 274:2
That which is produced by the divine spirit is divine. R89:3
Jesus at his resurrection was not flesh but spirit. R122:3*
When Jesus was raised it was by the Spirit, and therefore not in the
flesh; and when the saints are raised "it is raised a spiritual body" (1
Cor. 15:44) for the same reason. R27:6*
If Jesus is, and has been since his resurrection, a spiritual body, why
should we look for him to be a fleshly body at his second coming? R242:4
There are two kinds of bodies--earthly and spiritual. Adam was the head of
the earthly, human family, and a pattern of the perfect human being.
Christ Jesus was the firstborn of the dead to the perfect new nature, the
spiritual, and he is spirit, an illustration of a perfect spiritual body.
R277:2, 205:6
There is a great lesson here for many pre-millennialists, who vainly
think, as Nicodemus, that the Kingdom of God will be a fleshly kingdom.
R2422:1
Modern spiritualism, like modern theology, teaches that all men become
spiritual beings at death. The Bible teaches that one must be born of the
Spirit in order to become a spiritual being. HG29:6
John 3:7
Marvel not -- Nicodemus must not be too surprised at the great mistake
he had and others had made in regard to the terms and conditions which
would qualify them for a place in the Kingdom. R3486:3
That I said -- Wonder not at my first statement, that you must be
begotten from above ere you can understand, know and appreciate the things
of which you inquire. A280
Be born again -- A reiteration of our Lord's first statement in verse 3,
and should be rendered begotten. R837:2
John 3:8
The wind bloweth -- While Jesus was talking, quite probably the wind
whistled through the apartment in which they were sitting, rattling the
doors, and Jesus seized upon this as a good illustration. R2573:1
Greek, pneuma, translated ghost, spirit, life, spiritual and wind. E174
Canst not tell -- We must repel the suggestion that he meant that the
Spirit of which we would be begotten is invisible, for although that is
true enough, it is not what our Lord is saying. R4125:2
Not that the Lord means that the holy Spirit passes hither and thither
throughout the world, begetting some and passing others by, and that we
know not who may be begotten of the Spirit. R4125:2
So is -- Like the wind which can go and come, can be heard and to some
extent felt, but which cannot be seen. R3486:3
Men in the flesh will be unable to see them, as they are unable to see the
wind, though they will be everywhere present and influential, as is the
wind. R2573:2
Intangible, invisible, while present and powerful. R4125:1; NS101:2
His Kingdom will be invisible to mortals, but it shall act through visible
agencies and produce visible results. R210:6
This is as good an illustration as I can give you of those born of the
spirit in the resurrection. Those who will constitute the Kingdom will all
be invisible as the wind, and men not thus born of the spirit will neither
know whence they come, nor whither they go. A280; R837:5
Like Jesus after his resurrection, appearing and disappearing as he had
never done previously, but as angels had frequently done. A231; R2801:5,
2478:1, 2455:3, 2422:3, 2081:6, 1856:6, 1817:1, 1416:2, 579:2, 274:2,
262:4, 189:1; HG63:4
Every one -- Everyone who experiences a resurrection to the spirit
nature. R3904:2
Only these born-again ones of the spirit-resurrection can go and come like
the wind. HG366:4
Even as are the angels and all spirit beings. Q749:2, 838:4
Born of the Spirit -- "Changed" in the first resurrection. D618
It will be within their province to appear as men, as the angels have
done, if there be necessity for so appearing, although we are inclined to
think that there will be no such necessity, as God has already provided an
earthly class as the representatives of the Kingdom amongst men. (Heb.
11:39, 40) R2422:3
John 3:9
How -- Could it be possible that himself and all the great teachers of
the Jewish nation had such a misconception of the Kingdom? R3486:2, 4125:2
Can these things be -- Your claims seem more unreasonable to me the more
I hear them. I cannot conceive it possible for beings to be present yet
invisible. R837:5
To him it seemed as though an invisible spirit being would be nothing.
NS101:1
John 3:10
A master -- You are of the Pharisees, who professedly believe in angels

as spirit beings. A281
Of Israel -- Evidence that the house of Israel was no longer regarded by
our Lord and the apostles as the "ten tribes" merely. C293; R1341:1
Knowest not -- Evidently, therefore, a proper study of the matter from
the Scriptural standpoint might have led true Israelites indeed to more or
less of an appreciation of the character of the Kingdom. R3486:4
This should not have been so strange--the powers which our Lord described
were the very powers which in the past from time to time had been
manifested through holy angels. R2573:2
As a thoughtful student of the Law and the prophets, Nicodemus should have
seen that there were insurmountable difficulties connected with the
prevailing thought that God's Kingdom would be an earthly one. R4125:2
Our Master's words were not chiding, but rather a declaration of facts,
because, as the Apostle declares, it is impossible for the natural man not
begotten of the holy Spirit to understand spiritual things. R4125:4
We may, with much greater point, say to the Christians who cavil today,
Are you begotten of the Spirit and taught of God, and yet ignorant of
these things? R2422:4
Undoubtedly this is the trouble with the great majority of the people
today also--they have not been begotten of the holy Spirit, and hence are
unable to understand spiritual things. R4125:5
These things -- That spirit beings can be present, yet invisible. Have
you, who attempt to teach others, never read about Elisha and his servant,
or about Balaam's ass? A280; R837:5
John 3:11
We do know -- I have been telling you such things as are known and to a
considerable extent have been demonstrated amongst men through the
ministry of angels. R2573:3
The intimation is that our Lord could tell heavenly things, but that he
was not disposed to do so, because Nicodemus and others found it difficult
to receive even the earthly things. R5065:6
Ye -- Pharisees. A281
Receive not -- Nicodemus was unable or, because of prejudice, perhaps
unwilling to believe. R2422:5, 3486:4
The trouble with Nicodemus was that he was not ready to be taught. He had
called our Lord Teacher, and yet was unready to receive the testimony of
the only one who was capable of giving him the instruction. R4125:4
We are to tell heavenly things, but not to the natural man. R5065:6
Our witness -- Our message. R3486:4
John 3:12
Earthly things -- Our Lord does not even class this teaching of begettal
and birth as being especially spiritual, but rather earthly, such as
natural man should be able to understand and appreciate. R2422:5
Many of our day look at the matter similarly, and refuse to believe the
things beyond the range of their natural senses--they lack the sixth sense
of faith, or spiritual apprehension. R3486:5
Believe not -- Are unable to receive them. R4166:4
How shall ye believe -- It would be useless for me to attempt to tell
you of heavenly things, for you would not be convinced, and my preaching
would seem the more foolish to you. A281
Nicodemus would not have been to blame for not understanding spiritual
things, for only the spirit begotten can clearly grasp and appreciate
these things. R2573:3
Obedience to the natural things, which they can see, is a prerequisite to
advancement in knowledge; as during the entire Gospel age it has been a
prerequisite to begetting to the new nature. R838:1
Those whose minds are on so gross an earthly plane that they cannot
appreciate so simple a matter as this are not in the condition to be
inducted into the deeper things of God. They are babes who need milk
instead of strong meat. (Heb. 5:12) R2422:5
The person who cannot grasp with clearness and distinctness the features
of God's plan which relate to the world in general, certainly need not
expect that he would be in any condition to understand or appreciate the
things which pertain to the spiritual conditions. R3486:4
This is the explanation of why our Lord Jesus did not present teachings as
deep along spiritual lines as did some of the apostles. It was not
inability on his part to present them, but those truths would have been
meat out of season to his disciples. R4166:4
The Lord's works were on a fleshly plane as a matter of necessity because
the holy Spirit had not yet come. After Pentecost the Lord's people, as
his representatives, began to do greater works than those which he himself
had performed. R2455:1,4
Seeing that his hearers were not prepared to understand the heavenly
things, our Lord gave his attention chiefly to discourses on earthly
things, and to parables and dark sayings which the Spirit would
subsequently make known. R3307:3
If what I have taught or illustrated by earthly things, which you could
and do understand, has not brought conviction, it would be no more
convincing to you if I were to tell you of heavenly things of which you
know nothing. A281; R837:6
If you would be led of God into all truth, and find a position in the
Kingdom which I am announcing, you must follow the light, step by step. As
you do so, more light will come; and this as rapidly as you will be
prepared for it. R837:5; A279
When any are found who have not the hearing ear for the Truth, we should
not seek to pound it into them, but rather should take a different tack,
and seek their consecration. R4125:5
An ability to appreciate the deeper things comes only to, and is only for,
those who have come into the spiritual covenant relationship of the sons
of God as new creatures. R4125:5
Hence it was necessary to give the proofs of a spiritual matter (namely,
that Christ has been raised from the dead a spirit being) along lines
which the unilluminated could appreciate. R2081:3
If I tell you -- A natural man, not begotten, cannot know or be
acquainted with spiritual truths, even though the great Master were the
instructor. R838:1
Of heavenly things -- Not until Jesus finished his sacrifice and
ascended on high could any receive the holy Spirit, and not until then
could any understand spiritual things. R4314:3
The fact is that the revelation of heavenly or spiritual things dates from
Pentecost, after he was gone. R507:1; F632
A knowledge of the heavenly things can be received only after the
begetting of the Spirit. How much more will the realities mean when, born
of the spirit, we shall be like our Lord and share his glory! A282; F729
It is impossible to describe heaven with its beauties and charms. In line
with this, the Bible makes no attempt to describe heaven itself, nor its
inhabitants. R4966:3, 4675:3; CR117:1
To talk of heaven with its pianos, harps, organs, etc., is to merely think
of the blessings God has provided for the faithful and obedient of the
world on earth, and not of the "heaven of heavens" promised to the Church.
R4966:3, 4675:3
As to how and when our Lord came to an appreciation of his pre-human
condition, we have no direct revelation. Of one thing we are assured, that
during our Lord's ministry he had a clear knowledge of the heavenly
things. R5156:6
John 3:13
No man -- The words in this verse were intended to remind Nicodemus that
he need not look to fellow human creatures for information respecting
heavenly things, as they could not know them any more than himself.
R2423:1 The Kingdom of Heaven class was not started until our dear
Redeemer's first advent, when he gave himself a ransom for all, and began
the selection of the Little Flock. R2342:1
There is no suggestion that when his servants would die they would go to
that "far country" to be with their King, and there receive their reward
for well-doing or ill-doing. HG664:2
Including Enoch, Elijah, Moses and David, or any of the patriarchs.
R5772:3, 5333:5, 5207:2, 5188:5, 5179:5, 4757:1, 3417:4, 3378:4, 2342:1,
838:5, 619:6; F676; HG347:5; Q713:4
Therefore Moses and Elijah, on the Mount of Transfiguration, only appeared
to be present, but they were not actually present, because it was merely a
vision. R2659:5, 2288:3, 1761:2
Therefore Adam did not go to heaven. Q742:4
Therefore when the Prophet David declared, "Thou wilt not leave my soul in
sheol; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption" (Psa.
16:10), he was speaking of Jesus and not of himself. NS663:4
Elijah is said to have ascended to heaven; but, from this statement, that
must be understood to refer to the air, not to the heavenly condition.
R2153:3, 558:5
Everything in the Scriptures agrees that the prophets of old as well as
the apostles, and all the faithful as well as the unfaithful, fell asleep
in death, and "know not anything" (Eccl. 9:5) until awakening in the
resurrection morning. NS429:4
God does not perfect separate individuals, but works by dispensations.
Under the Jewish dispensation, not a Gentile could be saved; even the Jew
could not be made perfect, without us. (Heb. 11:40) No man could ascend
into heaven. HG15:5
Therefore Lazarus, when dead, had not been to heaven. R4161:4, 3531:4;
PD61/72; SM100:1
Dorcas, whom all the creeds of "Christendom" would send to heaven, when
she was awakened to life, had no wonderful experiences or mysterious
visions to relate, nor any disappointment to express at being recalled to
this mundane sphere. R1450:6 St. Peter's words (Acts 2:34,29) imply that
if King David had ascended to heaven he would have no sepulchre on earth,
for the very thought connected with the word sepulchre is that of a
personality awaiting a resurrection. R5132:4
Entirely incompatible with the teaching of modern theology, that the
righteous dead are not really dead, but more alive than ever in heaven.
R1378:2; CR21:2
There could be no resurrection of the dead if there were no dead--if the
dead were really more alive than they ever were. NS519:6
John Wesley said no human being had gone to heaven. He said they went to
hades. Nobody has gone to heaven; nobody will go to heaven until after the
resurrection and judgment. HG124:3*, 145:4
Those who, at the point of death, see visions of angels or hear celestial
strains of music see merely a phantasmagoria induced by an excited
condition of the imaginative powers of the mind, with a correspondingly
dormant state of the reasoning facilities. Q762:1
There is no indication that his disciples would die and go to the Lord,
and be reckoned with and rewarded then; but that our Lord will come a
second time, to receive his people unto himself, and to then reward them.
R2765:2
What a peculiar place some people must fancy heaven to be: full of
infants, idiots and heathens, with an occasional "saint" from civilized
lands. R3398:6; HG644:1
Hath ascended -- This statement by our Lord would cause no particular
surprise to Nicodemus, for nothing in the Law or the prophets or teachings
of orthodox Judaism ever held to the idea prevalent amongst the heathen
that the dead were alive. R4125:6
To heaven -- Hence none could corroborate my testimony. A281
None had ever been there, or seen heavenly things. R2573:3
But he that came down -- The Son of man, who alone had come down from
heaven, was alone able to speak with knowledge and authority respecting
heavenly matters. R3486:6, 1059:5; A281
He had recollection of his previous existence as a spirit being with the
Father. Our Lord's success against temptation was as a result of being
rightly exercised by this knowledge of God. (Isa. 53:11) R1125:5; HG293:1
He alone left the glory which he had with the Father before the world was;
he alone exercised that wonderful faith in the Father which permitted him
to sacrifice everything with joy. R3912:2
If our Lord Jesus, when on earth, was nothing but flesh--a mere man--then
he could not be truly said to have come down from heaven. R106:5*
Unitarians and others take away from the dignity and honor of our Lord,
beside contradicting much Scripture, by denying that he had an existence
before his conception in Mary. R505:2*
The Son of man -- The Scriptures identify "The Son of Man" with the Lord
of glory, and with the man Christ Jesus who gave himself, and with the
pre-human Logos, which came down from heaven and was made flesh. E150
Which is in heaven -- The oldest Greek MSS (the Sinaitic and the
Vatican) omit the last four words of verse 13 with evident propriety, for
although our Lord is now in heaven, he was not in heaven at the time he
addressed Nicodemus. A282; E92, 150; R3487:1, 2573:3, 2422:6, 506:6, 445:6*
John 3:14
And as Moses -- The verses from here on were not spoken to Nicodemus,
but combined various of our Lord's teachings which the writer here brought
together conveniently. R4125:6
Our Lord did not stop with a mere answer to his visitor's questions about
the Kingdom being heavenly, but proceeded to give him in brief form an
outline of the entire plan of salvation. R3487:2
Our Lord turned the subject by way of showing the grand basis for this
spiritual Kingdom, and that he himself could not enter into that Kingdom
while still in the flesh. R2573:4
Lifted up -- The remedy for the bites of the serpents was to look at a
brazen (copper) serpent fastened to the top of a pole, said pole probably
being carried throughout the camp of Israel, that all the sick, suffering
ones might have the opportunity of looking upon it and thus being healed.
R3101:6
"And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me."
(John 12:32) Not lifted up by glorifying, but clearly the lifting up of
the cross. Moses did not glorify the serpent. R1054:2, 669:3
The serpent -- Of brass (literally, copper), which is a type of the
human nature. R1849:2
Apparently of immense size and capable of being seen by the Israelites
from quite a distance. R4048:3
To which the Israelites, who would exercise faith, might look and receive
healing. R3487:2
The serpent on the pole represented Christ on the cross, and represented
the atonement transaction better than any other emblem could. R3101:6,
3102:1
The serpent represented sin in every sense of the word; and as the whole
world was serpented or inoculated, our Lord must take the place of the
sinner in order that the sinner might get free from the sentence. R3102:1
We can think of only one way that our Lord was viewed as a serpent--in the
sense that he underwent all the experiences which a sinner could have been
required to undergo. R5253:4, 5577:5, 5239:1, 4704:2, 2423:4, 1696:2
A symbol of the punishment for their sin. R837:6
A synonym for sin, because it was the tool for sin. R5238:6
The fiery serpent of sin has bitten our race. We are all dying. Only by
the exercise of faith in the Crucified One can any be healed. R5316:4,
4126:1, 3102:1, 2573:4
Even so must -- There is an object in my coming, and before you or
others could be begotten of the Spirit, I must perform my mission. R837:6
The drawing of the world could not take place except he were lifted up as
the sin-offering. R2467:4
Be lifted up -- Be crucified. R5577:5, 5065:1
Christ, who knew no sin, was made a sin-offering on our behalf, that we
might be made the righteousness of God in him. He is the antitype of the
brazen serpent. R1696:2, 5577:5, 5054:3
On the cross, and thus made to appear as the sinner--to take the place of
the sinner--so that the whole world of mankind, bitten by sin and dying as
a result, might look unto him by faith and be healed. R3487:2
It was not divinely intended that our Lord should be stoned, but that he
should be treated as a cursed one--hanged upon a tree. (Deut. 21:22,23)
R5221:3
Comparatively early in his ministry Jesus stated this. As he came down
nearer to the time of his humiliation, his degradation, he realized all
that it meant. R5421:3
The result of the lifting up of Christ will eventually be the drawing of
all men unto him. "And I, if I be lifted up, will draw all men unto me.
This he said, signifying what death he should die." (John 12:32,33) R1849:3
The only ground for hope that any of the fallen race of Adam will ever
know anything about the heavenly condition is then stated by our Lord to
depend upon his own justifying work on man's behalf. R2423:1
John 3:15
Whosoever -- The Israelites bitten by those serpents represented or

typified sinners bitten by sin and suffering from the consequences
thereof--the fall. R4048:4
Believeth in him -- Bitten by sin, they must by faith recognize in him
their sin bearer, the one upon whom their penalty was placed, and by whose
sin-offering they were redeemed; that believing on him thus, they might
have life. R837:6
The serpent-bitten had to look with their physical eyes, and the
sin-bitten have to look with their mental eyes. R1328:6*
Not only was it necessary that Christ should die for our sins, but that
none could be saved through his death except by looking unto him,
exercising faith in the merit of his great atonement-sacrifice. R4048:5
It is not sufficient for us to believe in Jesus as the great Teacher, but
also that there was a redemption accomplished by our Lord in his
Many may get some blessing morally, mentally and physically from looking
at Jesus as a great Jew or a great teacher, but only those who view him as
the antitype of the serpent in the wilderness have his promise of
forgiveness and acceptance with God unto eternal life. R3102:4
Should not perish -- Lose life altogether. R5608:2
As unfit to live and enjoy God's blessing. R5275:4
In the second death. R883:1
Let no one be deceived regarding the duration of the punishment of the
wicked as it is repeatedly put forth in the Scriptures that it is for
eternity and not merely for a season. However, it is not a question as to
the duration of the punishment, but it is a question as to the nature of
the punishment. Q768:2
Not a word respecting any danger of the world going into eternal torment,
nor did he utter a word respecting the salvation of any in ignorance.
R2573:4, 2423:4; HG707:2*; NS646:2
In sending Israel relief, God foreshadowed the greater relief he would
afterward send to mankind in general--Christ, the sinner's ransom-price.
R1849:2
John 3:16
For -- A brief statement of why the Heavenly Father has provided the
blessing which he had been describing--God's sympathetic love for
humanity. R2573:5
Luther called this verse the "little Bible." We would express it, "the
Gospel in a nut shell." The whole message of God is contained in condensed
form: (1) man's need, his perishing condition, is shown; (2) God's love is
declared, proven in the gift of his Son; (3) our Lord's willing
cooperation is evidenced; (4) the lengths and breadths of this love and
redemption are declared to embrace the whole world; and (5) the
limitations of divine grace are plainly stated, that the blessing can be
obtained only through a true acceptance of Christ. R3487:4, 2573:5, 2423:4
God so loved -- The love prompting man's redemption was not phileo or
duty-love, for God had not wronged his creatures in the sentence of death.
It was agapee, or disinterested charity, benevolence, love. R2807:4
Divine sympathy exercised toward the race of sinners. NS740:5
The love of pity and sympathy toward all those who have fallen below the
standard of moral excellence, or who suffer in any way. R1670:2
A love for the world which will not only be glad to see them lifted up out
of degradation and sin to holiness, but will be glad to cooperate to these
ends as opportunities may offer. R2755:2
God loves the world with a broad, sympathetic love; but he has a special
love for his true Church, those who have consecrated themselves fully to
him during this Gospel age. OV423:3; CR473:2
Before Jesus came into the world. NS524:4
While we were yet sinners. R4133:4, 1833:4, 1693:6, 1266:6; NS384:3
Including those who lived before Jesus came, as much as those who had not
yet been born. NS384:3
This perfect love extends even to enemies and those who injure us and
speak evil of us falsely for Christ's righteousness sake. R2755:2
The difficulty with the world and with the church in the past has been
that we have not emphasized the love of God. R5353:3
God is not bound by justice to give any future life to anybody, but he has
arranged so to do. R5314:4
God was a God of love prior to the sending forth of his Son, but his love
was hidden--not revealed, not manifest to men. It was manifest for the
first time when he sent his Son to be man's Redeemer. NS406:3
Some deny God's love in the matter and claim that all the love was
Christ's, but it was God that devised the plan as it is being carried
forward. R1572:3, 77:1*, 9:2*
Orthodoxy says that it was Jesus that so loved the world. The Father did
not love them, but Jesus loved them and threw himself between them and his
angry Father. R405:3*
God from the beginning foreknew his intention to send his Son into the
world for human redemption. HG595:3
Christ likewise so loved the world as to freely become the instrument of
Jehovah for its salvation. R2099:3
Would it not seem that if God loved the world so much, he might have made
provision, not only that believers might be saved, but also that all might
hear in order to believe? HG343:6; OV225:T
We are to love the world only in the sense of having sympathy with it, as
our Heavenly Father has, while we are unsympathetic with its arrangements.
R4766:5, 3804:6; SM390:2
The love which is worthy of our emulation is that which benevolently
ignores personal antagonisms and animosities, and, overleaping all selfish
considerations and vengeful feelings, considers only the possibilities and
the ways and means for peace and reformation and salvation. R4766:4
God's love for mankind, as well as divine justice and wisdom, prepared
man's penalty. Had they continued to have access to the trees of life, and
thus to continue existence, it would have meant everlasting life for
sinners. NS645:5
God's love for sinners was so great that he would not allow them to have
everlasting life, because that would mean to them everlasting imperfection
and sorrow. NS646:1
There was nothing in the fallen man that God could really love, in the
sense of fellowshiping him. R5724:3
Not only passive love for sinners which would not arrange for their
eternal suffering through a perpetuation of life out of harmony with
himself, but the active love which arranged for their recovery. NS646:1
Does love plan torture? Does loving provision not imply wisdom in the use
of power, that the creature may not be injured, if he shall not be
benefited by the program. NS645:3
God's mercy is his love in active operation for the relief of the
condemned. Although God is love, and hence must have always been loving,
kind, and merciful of disposition, yet this quality of his character was
held in restraint as respects condemned men for more than 40 centuries.
NS863:4
God does not love the world with a love of fellowship, nor are we to do
so. R3804:6
The world -- As well as the Church. R5597:2; HG132:3, 178:1
Not only the Church, but also the world; not only redeeming the Church,
but also redeeming the world. R5354:4
Greek, kosmos, the people, or world of mankind. R206:3
The human family; though not in the sense in which he loves the Church of
Christ. R5138:2
Note the different kinds, or degrees of love: first, we have love for the
world; second, in a much higher and special sense, "The Father himself
loveth you"--you who have accepted Jesus Christ as your Redeemer. (John
16:27) R3033:6
The whole world, including the Canaanites, as well as the Israelites.
R5314:4
The whole world was loved of God. The whole world has been provided for in
the glorious sacrifice of Jesus, and the whole world is to have the
benefit resulting from that sacrifice. Christ's death is not merely for
the Church, the elect few. OV380:4
It would surprise none of us to read that God so loved the holy
angels--they have always been loyal and true; nor that he so loved the
saints, who have turned to righteousness. NS645:2
"The earth" is not "the world," nor is "the age." The primary idea of it
appears to be "an arrangement," the human race under an arrangement,
including every individual of the human race, from the first man to the
very last of his posterity. R1328:1*
Giving the thought of the wideness of God's mercy and of his provision for
our race. R2423:4
The whole world. R405:3*
Some things are universal. God's sunshine is universal; it shines from
pole to pole, upon both the just and the unjust. So is his love. Light and
truth are yet to be universal, and so is the testimony of the ransom.
R2632:6*
That he gave -- To humiliation and sacrifice in death. R2573:5, 884:3*
The birth of Jesus, to be rightly understood and esteemed, must be
considered from the standpoint of a gift of love divine. R5135:2
Suggesting the cost of the world's salvation to our Heavenly Father.
R1696:5
It is plain therefore that the salvation which God has provided is purely
an act of his free grace--an act to which he was in no sense obligated,
and to which he was impelled only by his abounding love. R1266:6, 1265:4
This is a gift--not called for by divine justice, but prompted by divine
love. HG595:4
Salvation is thus a free gift to all men, the conditions being accept,
believe, obey. R1965:2*
Not that God compelled his only begotten Son to die for us, but rather he
set before him a great prize, so that Jesus counted it all joy to lay down
his life. NS646:3
Only begotten Son -- Only begotten from the very beginning of his
existence. At age 30 he made his consecration. Then he was begotten of the
Spirit to a spirit nature; but he was the only begotten Son of God the
whole time. Q372:1
More than a begotten son by the word of truth. Jesus claimed to be the Son
of God, and consequently the Messiah. If Christ was the son of God only as
we are sons of God, then he was not the Son of God, but a son. R944:4*
A Son on the higher plane before he was sent. R1059:5, 445:6*
It is impossible for us to tell the riches of divine grace toward us--the
numberless blessings and mercies which are ours through our Lord. He
represents to us the very fullness of every divine provision for our
eternal welfare. R5927:6
Our sins were laid upon Christ, our Redeemer, and his righteousness is
transferred correspondingly to our account. R1262:1
This phraseology brings us into conflict with an old
theory--trinitarianism. R405:6*
By God sending his Son, he manifests his sympathetic love which otherwise
neither angels nor men might ever have known. R5430:4
Whosoever -- Of mankind. R5430:4
All the willing and obedient may thus come into relationship with the
Life-giver and obtain the everlasting life. R5354:5
Believeth -- Obediently. R2120:5
He limits his favor by two conditions: (1) the blessing through his Son
shall only go to those who intelligently know of it and by faith accept
it; and (2) it shall be available only to those who desire to come into
harmony with divine laws as obedient children. NS646:5
None can obtain everlasting life except through a personal relationship to
Christ, the Redeemer, and the exercise of faith in his redeeming blood and
obedience to his counsels. R5354:2
Those who claim that all infants and the mass of the heathen will be saved
without believing do violence to these texts. R936:1
Knowledge will be forced upon all, and obedience will be forced to a
certain limit, but in the end the sinner himself must determine whether or
not he will accept the grace of God for the remission of his sins. NS648:1
As the effects or results of Adam's failure were inherited by those in
him, so the results of Christ's obedience will be shared by all who
believe into him. R1601:6
Here is the truth that sanctifies. Q638:3
The Scriptures make specific mention of the necessary faith, but always
imply a character consistent with the faith. R3114:2
"How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how
shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they
hear without a preacher?" (Rom. 10:14) R405:6*
Should not perish -- Our pardon, sealed with the precious blood of
Christ and signed by the great Sovereign of the Universe. R1494:3
The penalty that is upon the world is not an eternal torment penalty, but
a penalty of destruction. R5597:3, 5353:6, 2423:4; HG120:4, 163:2
Webster gives the primary meaning of "perish" as "to die, to lose life, in
any manner." Liddel and Scott define the original word "to destroy
utterly, kill, slay, murder." The text really defines its own meaning by
placing "perish" as the opposite of "life." R406:1*
We know what perishing signifies. The brute beasts, when they die, perish,
because God has made no provision for their resurrection. R5353:6; NS647:5
Let us get rid of the thought that "perish" means to preserve in eternal
torment. NS647:4
The sentence of perishing was eternal, were it not for the fact that God
provided a redemption through Jesus Christ. HG120:4
All will perish who will not accept of Jesus' finished work, the ransom
sacrifice which he gave; but their perishing will be as a "second death,"
because all must at some time be brought to a knowledge of this truth (the
ransom) and must reject it and the life (or escape from perishing) which
it offers. R884:4
Nevertheless, all who will refuse this grace of God in Christ and fail to
come into vital union with him will perish. R5354:5
But have -- Obtain. R2573:5
He who believes in me and becomes my true, faithful follower, may reckon
that he has already begotten in him the new life, and that I will assist
him and carry him through to a share in the first resurrection. R3730:6
Everlasting life -- In due time, recovering from the death penalty
through faith in Christ and obedience to him. R5597:3
After God applies the various temptations or tests so as to demonstrate
whether or not they are worthy of eternal life. R4760:6
The word here translated "everlasting" does not necessarily mean endless.
Competent authorities render it "age-lasting"; and the age may be long or
short, according to the nature and circumstances of the case. R1328:4*
The awakening from death is only the beginning of the salvation or
restitution which will be completed within the limits of that age. R936:4
That in him all families of the earth might be blessed. R5180:3
They shall, by resurrection processes, return to full harmony with the
Lord and to repossess the blessings and favors lost by Father Adam when he
sinned. NS647:3
To attain to all that was lost in Adam, all that was redeemed by
Jesus--eternal life, fellowship with God and the Son and communion with
the holy Spirit, and fellowship in all the rights on both the heavenly and
earthly planes. NS647:6
The Scriptures set forth two salvations, entirely separate and
distinct--that of mankind, shown here; and that of the Church, shown in
such texts as Eph. 5:25-27. HG252:5,3; NS768:1
John 3:17
For God -- This is perhaps in answer to another question, or perhaps

merely a part of the further discourse to Nicodemus. R2573:5
Sent not -- He does not intimate that the world had yet been saved, or
that anything had yet been done for the world's salvation, except the
sending of the one who would redeem the world by the sacrifice of himself.
E425
Our Lord's first advent was not with a view to increasing the Adamic
condemnation but the reverse of this, to effect the sacrifice by which it
might ultimately be canceled. R4126:4
Our Lord Jesus in all matters acts as a representative of the Father,
Jehovah, in the work of salvation. E35
His pre-human existence is implied in this sending and mission. E88
His Son -- This feature of the Master's teachings especially angered the
Jews, for they declared that in claiming to be the Son of God, he was
establishing himself upon a pedestal of honor, dignity, glory, in
competition with Jehovah. R5768:1; OV329:2
Into the world -- Here signifying the world as a place. R97:3*
To condemn -- Greek, krino, sentence. R699:6
The governments are to be destroyed that the people may be delivered. A255
The world has already been condemned, for it had shared in Father Adam's
condemnation as his race. It needed no more condemnation, but it did need
salvation. R4126:2, 4702:1, 857:6; HG617:1
Our word damned, from misusage and the bad theology of the Dark Ages, has
a sulphurous odor, whereas its plain, simple meaning, is the same as the
word condemn. NS860:3
"To judge" (Revised Ver.). The world had been judged previously. God did
not send his Son into the world to do that over again. R1328:3*
Be saved -- From the damnation or condemnation under which they already
were through Adam's death. R857:6
God merely overlooked or "winked" at the ignorance and superstition of the
period from Adam to the death of our Redeemer. But as soon as Jesus had
died, God offered forgiveness and reconciliation to those who would
believe in Jesus and accept the divine terms. Such have their sins
forgiven, come back to fellowship with God. And, in the next age, such
shall eventually attain full human perfection. SM150:1
One of Jesus' titles is The Savior which, in the Syrian language spoken in
Palestine in Jesus' day, signifies "The Life-Giver." All human life was
forfeited through Adam. All mankind are dying as a result. A Life-Giver, a
Savior from death, was what was needed. R4702:1
John 3:18
He that believeth -- These believers are such as not only believe that
such a person as Jesus lived and died, but that his death was accepted of
God as a ransom price. R1229:5
Is not condemned -- Believers in Christ are reckoned as justified by
their faith--as passing out from the remainder of the world, freeing
themselves of the original Adamic condemnation. NS402:5
Believeth not -- There is no suggestion anywhere in the Scriptures that
God has made provision for salvation in blindness, ignorance and
superstition. There must be faith, and there must be knowledge preceding
faith. HG114:6
Condemned already -- Condemned six thousand years ago, and, if a Jew,
additionally bound by the Law Covenant, and has not escaped the
condemnation that is on the world. R1726:1, 970:6, 688:6
The whole human family originally came under divine sentence or
condemnation through father Adam's disobedience. Children were born
sharers in his blemishes by heredity, and sharers likewise in his
condemnation. NS402:5
Before they believe in Christ, men are in the attitude of condemned
beings, condemned on account of father Adam's sin. R2059:2
All men are lost until found, or recovered. R857:5
The wrath of God (death, inherited from Adam) abides on him (verse 36). No
man is on trial individually until brought to a knowledge of Christ.
R2059:4
The question is not, What shall we do to escape coming under condemnation,
but, How shall we, who are already condemned of God as unworthy of
everlasting life, get free from that condition in which we were born, and
back into the condition of perfection which God will approve? HG651:1
Hath not believed -- These will be brought to a knowledge of the great
foundation truth of the ransom in the times of restitution, and when they
accept it, their sins will be blotted out. R1229:5
John 3:19
This is the condemnation -- Quite separate and distinct from the Adamic
condemnation, which was inherited; this condemnation, resulting from an
intelligent rejection of light, bears an individual penalty. R4126:4
A measure of increased condemnation in proportion as the light is seen by
any one and rejected. R4126:4, 1655:5
Those who violate their consciences and ignore the light which they enjoy
and sin against it, will find themselves proportionately degraded when
they shall come under the Kingdom influences and tests. R5037:5
At the first advent of our Lord an increased measure of light came to men,
and to that extent increased their responsibility. R2612:6
The light which then shone and which has since shone through his
followers, has carried with it a measure of responsibility--a measure of
condemnation to all who have resisted the light. R4126:4, 722:1
The condemnation already upon men, justified by their course. R2573:6
Judgment; this is the testimony of God, that Christ is the judgment of the
world. R1329:2*
Although there will be rewards and "stripes" according to the deeds of the
present life, the verdict in the end will be in harmony with the choice
expressed by the conduct of each during that (Millennial age) of trial.
R2611:5
Condemnation is no more the equivalent of judgment than damnation is. The
process of judgment will result either in justification or in
condemnation, according to the merits or demerits of each case. R1330:1*
Christ is the judgment of the world because he is its love, and he is its
love because he is its light, and he is its light because he is its life.
R1329:2*
Light is come -- Jesus is the true light which ultimately, in the
Kingdom, shall be a great Sun of Righteousness with healing in his beams.
R2573:6
An increased measure of light, which increased to that extent their
There is a measure of light in the world, emanating from our dear
Redeemer, his words and his works, and still shines forth from all those
who are truly his, but this is not that light of the world which is to
scatter all of earth's darkness and cause all to appreciate the glory of
God. R3686:2
Since the death of Jesus a measurable blessing of knowledge of God has
come into the world. NS559:1
His Church is invited to become associated with him as lamp-bearers; and
parts of that great Sun of Righteousness which shall heal the world with
its beams. SM560:3
Whether of conscience or of revelation. R2612:6, 722:1
And men -- Strange to say, darkness was not confined to the ignorant
then, nor is it today. It is no respecter of stations. Indeed, the powers
of darkness are greatest in the more influential and better educated.
SM241:1
The Scriptures plainly declare that blindness in part is upon all the
children of Adam through the fall, yet from Jesus' words we must conclude
that these Pharisees were not totally blind. R723:6
Loved darkness -- Mankind has become so depraved, so in sympathy with
sin, so out of accord with absolute truth, justice and righteousness, that
it was not attractive to them--or rather, less attractive to them than the
error. SM240:3
It will be less tolerable for those who reject the light of divinely
revealed truth, and thus prefer the darkness to the light, because their
deeds are evil. R1618:4
He who loves the darkness remains in the darkness, and he who loves the
light comes to the light. R1329:5*
Rather than light -- In proportion as any who have seen even a glimmer
of the true light have hated and refused it, in that proportion they have
added to their responsibility. Such is the condition of Churchianity
today--so-called Christendom. NS559:1
Throughout the Scriptures light is used to represent God, his truth, his
righteousness, his servants and their messages. Contrariwise, darkness is
the synonym for Satan, the Prince of Darkness, and all his deluded
followers, the children of darkness. SM240:2
Evil -- Here "evil" is the opposition of "truth." He that doeth evil is
the opposite of him that doeth truth. R1329:4*
The world is in an evil condition; it has not the spirit of the Lord, the
spirit of love. R4445:3
John 3:20
Hateth the light -- For it is the nature of light to scatter the

darkness. SM241:T
The darkness of sin and error is in direct antagonism to the light of
truth. The effect of light upon the darkened world is to awaken
opposition, antagonism, and thus to disturb and make uncomfortable those
in sympathy with darkness. R4813:3, 4761:2, 2415:1 It is altogether a
mistake, therefore, to suppose that you or I or any other person, or all
of the Lord's consecrated people, letting their light shine faithfully
before men, could convert the world. CR126:2
The reason for every willful act. Error abides in darkness. The brilliancy
of a light attracts blinded bugs--big bugs as well as lesser ones--which
vainly try to destroy the light. HG712:4*
All who do evil intentionally, in the light, thereby manifest their hatred
of the light. R4126:5
Even where there are no selfish motives to impel the persecution, there is
ever present the distinction between "light" and "darkness." R2501:2
Even those who have gotten out of the extreme darkness of moral pollution
into a kind of twilight of civilized reformation and moral reform, cannot
endure the clear, searching light of the true Gospel. R4813:5, 2415:2
Jesus' persecutors were those who had some light, but who hated the
brilliancy of the great light which shone upon them. Similarly, the Lord's
consecrated ones have been hated almost exclusively by those who had some
light, but whose light was as darkness in comparison with the great light
of the holy Spirit shining through these. R2415:2
The faithful servants of the Lord will be ostracised by the world. Their
attitude of full consecration to do the Father's will is not appreciated,
for to the world it seems foolish--it is a reproof. R5173:6
There are many dark places now into which they can get away from the
light, but the light-bearer is at hand, and though they shall call for the
rocks and the mountains to cover them that they may remain in the dark,
yet the light will shine. (Isa. 40:5) R192:6
Where such is the case in marriage, separation may follow, whether
accompanied by a decree of divorce from earthly courts or not, but the new
creature is not at liberty to remarry, except for the ground of
unfaithfulness. F505
Spiritualism hates the light, and their works are done under cover of
their favorite principle--darkness. Their work of proselyting, too, is
dark, covered--secret. R266:3
The condemnation of Jesus was a triumph of darkness over light only in
appearance; for God's plan was thus being carried out. R5561:2
The theory of erroneous religious teachings is that ignorance and
superstition are necessary for the preservation of sacerdotal power.
R5561:2
Be reproved -- Made manifest, lest they should thus be obliged to
confess that for years they had been teaching errors which His Word does
not authorize, in the name of the Lord. R1035:5
The effect of the light is to make manifest the evils of darkness which
would not otherwise appear; and thus to disturb and make uncomfortable
those in sympathy with darkness. R2415:1
To the sinful, envious, hateful heart of the fallen nature everything akin
to beauty, goodness, truth and love is distasteful, there is no beauty in
it, nothing desired--it is a reproof. E161
The world wants a man good enough to be honest, temperate, trustworthy and
faithful, but despises the higher forms of goodness because their own
heart is not in sympathy with such ideals and does not desire to be in the
presence of so high a standard. R2460:5
It makes manifest the error, the sin, with which they are identified and
which, to some extent at least, they love. R4126:5
John 3:21
He that doeth truth -- If something contrary to God's will may be

exposed in their own conduct or theories, they are glad of this also, that
they may have an opportunity for correcting the same. R4126:5
If we are doing the best we know how to do day by day, year by year, we
may rest in the Lord's unchanging grace toward us in Christ, however weak,
however imperfect our results. NS245:2
Thus all the doers of "many wonderful works in Christ's name" (Matt. 7:22)
lack the proper credentials, in that they do not have the truth which they
surely would have if they were in the Lord's favor and confidence. R3120:4
Cometh to the light -- Our perception of the love of God must lead to
appreciation, our appreciation to reciprocation, and our reciprocation
must never come to an end. R1329:4*
If our hearts condemn us, let us remember that God is still a higher and
more strict Judge than we are apt to be of ourselves. R1194:5
We are to prove the things which we receive, by their harmony with the
Scriptures and their ability to unlock them and make clear their meaning.
Whatever assists us in this direction is from God. R2532:5
Be made manifest -- They desire that their course in life shall become
manifest, that all shall know that, to the extent of their ability, they
are seeking to do the Lord's will. R4126:5
John 3:23
In Aenon -- Probably at a pool in the Jordan river. R1541:2

It matters not where one is baptized--in a regularly prepared baptistry,
which might be hired for the occasion, or the river, or any place where
there is plenty of water. R396:5
There was much water -- No one can for a moment suppose that if John
sprinkled his converts, the largeness of the water supply could be a
John 3:29
Hath the bride -- Here the Jewish marriage is set forth as the example
of the union between Christ and the Church--a very different figure from
our marriage custom of the present time. When a betrothal took place,
legal and binding documents were signed, but no actual marriage or union
took place for about a year. HG409:2
The bridegroom -- To the Jewish house Jesus presented himself in three
characters--as Bridegroom, Reaper (John 4:35,38), and King (Matt.
21:5,9,4). To the Christian house he presents himself in the same three
characters. (2 Cor. 11:2; Rev. 14:14,15; 17:14) B238
Jesus, personally, is the Bridegroom; not Jesus and the overcomers. R398:4
There is as much evidence of Christ being the Bridegroom in that typical
church, as that he was Reaper in the harvest of that typical age. For
example, the Jewish church is spoken of as the Lord's wife; John
introduced Jesus as the Bridegroom. R109:2
Christ came in the character of Bridegroom at the beginning of the Jewish
harvest as a part of the pattern, and at the beginning of the Gospel
harvest as a parallel. R51:3
It was just three and a half years after John had announced Jesus as the
Bridegroom to the typical house of Israel, that he came to them as their
King (parallelling AD 1874-1878). R88:5, 39:6*; B239
The friend -- Not the Bride, not a member of the Bride class, the
Church. HG132:2
The old custom was for the father or some friend of the man to make a
contract and arrange terms for him with the one to be invited to become
his wife and joint-heir. Such a one was called "the friend of the
bridegroom." R1388:4
John the Baptist occupied this position toward the Jewish nation--seeking
to have them accept of Christ the Bridegroom and become his Bride.
R1388:5, 5510:5
John the Baptist, the greatest prophet, did not claim the honor of being a
part of the Bride, but to be a friend of the Bridegroom, and to introduce
him. R219:1; SM251:2
Showing that John himself seemed to understand that he could not be of the
Kingdom class. His grand work terminated before the Redeemer's sacrifice
was finished. R4940:2, 5030:6, 4543:1, 1737:4
Rejoiceth greatly -- In the privilege of announcing the Bridegroom.
R4543:1
This my joy -- John declared that in introducing his cousin according to
the flesh, and thus accomplishing his part in the divine purpose and
prophecy, his joy was fulfilled. R1916:2, 219:1
John 3:30
He -- As the light. R1694:6

Must increase -- And so it was. After John was put into prison Jesus'
ministry became more and more public, especially by the numerous works
performed by him. R5037:1, 4644:6
Jesus (at the hands of his disciples) baptized more than did John and his
co-laborers. (John 4:1) R4130:2
I must decrease -- In influence. R703:4*
Observe the humility and self-abnegation of John in pointing out his
cousin according to the flesh as the "Lamb of God" (John 1:29), whose
rising popularity must soon eclipse his own. R1694:3
It was this meekness, this complete self-abnegation and singleness of
purpose to accomplish the righteous will of God, that constituted the
moral greatness of John. R1916:2
John's attitude here contrasted with that of the chief priests, scribes
and Pharisees. R1735:3
John 3:32
What he hath seen -- It was his knowledge of heavenly things, his

intimate and long acquaintance with the Father, begetting faith in the
Father's promises, which enabled him, as a perfect man, to overcome the
world and present an acceptable sacrifice for our sins. E91; R1060:1,
446:2*
John 3:33
Set to his seal -- Illustrated by endorsing a bank check. Each one must
personally accept, adopt, and endorse the promise of God by his own
individual faith, or he will derive no benefit from it. R1074:6*
That God is true -- That our Lord changeth not, but "is the same
yesterday, today and forever." (Heb. 13:8) E230
John 3:34
God giveth -- This anointing with the holy Spirit corresponded to the
anointing of Israel's high priests and kings with the holy anointing oil.
The oil was poured upon the head and ran down over the body. F443
Spirit -- The spirit of adoption. R182:2
Elsewhere called the Spirit of Christ, because in Christ the Spirit of God
dwelt richly and without measure. R2064:2
This is the secret of all power in the work of the Lord. No preaching, no
teaching is of value, except it be in the power of the holy Spirit. R1917:1
By measure -- Jesus, being perfect, received the Spirit "without
measure." Those who received the holy Spirit at Pentecost received it by
measure, that is, in limited degree. R2820:1, 1416:6; CR401:3
Without measure, unlimitedly; while his followers receive it by measure,
or limitedly--a measure of the Spirit is given to every man in the Church.
(Rom. 12:3) E185
We have only a certain capacity, and we can receive only according to our
capacity; only as we get free from the spirit of the world can we be
filled with the holy Spirit. In the case of our Redeemer, he was the
perfect one and had full capacity, and there was nothing to hinder him
from receiving the spirit without measure. Q183:T
When he was thirty years of age, on the banks of Jordan at the time of his
consecration, he was "anointed with the oil of gladness above his
fellows." (Psa. 45:7) T37
Unlimited or complete power, as in Col. 1:19, "For it was the good
pleasure of the Father that in him should all fullness dwell." R1063:6*
John 3:35
Loveth the Son -- There are two kinds of love: the intense, particular
affectionate love shown here; and the general love, or kindness. R1254:2
Given all things -- He bought all, and none can obtain life (complete,
perfect, everlasting) except through him. E143
John 3:36
He that believeth -- The believer referred to in this text is the one

who believes with the heart--not merely one with an intellectual
appreciation of the fact that Christ is the Son of God. R4840:2
Coming into full harmony with the Heavenly Father and with the Lord Jesus,
by the merit of Christ's sacrifice. It will mean a full turning away from
sin and a full devotion to God and to righteousness. SM153:2
None can obtain everlasting life except through a personal relationship to
Christ, the Redeemer, the exercise of faith in his redeeming blood, and
obedience to his counsels. R5354:2
The good tidings of a Savior shall be to all people (Luke 2:10,11), but
the special salvation from sin and death will come only to his people
(Matt. 1:21)--those who believe into him--for we read that the wrath of
God continues to abide on the unbeliever (verse 36). A107
All of Adam's posterity will have an opportunity to accept Jesus, either
as his brethren at the present time, or as his children in the next age.
R4819:2
The willing and obedient. R2122:1
On the Son -- God's good desires and plan are all centered in Christ. He
has appointed no other name by which we must be saved, and no other
conditions than faith in his blood and obedience to his precepts of
Hath everlasting life -- Full perfection of life, everlasting life.
NS340:5
A right, privilege, or grant of life as God's gift. E386
Believers already possess eternal life. NS336:1 From the standpoint of
God's reckoning, from the legal standpoint, the everlasting life provided
for such is already considered as theirs, while they abide under the robe
of Christ's righteousness. R5931:2
It is proper to say that we have a thing either when we are in actual
possession of it, or when we have a clear deed or title to it. A believer
has a clear title to life, signed by Jehovah himself and sealed with the
precious blood of Christ. R606:2
Our Lord has still a human life ungiven away. He does not give to the
Church human life. R5622:2
This is only a beginning of the resurrection, or raising up process, which
will not be perfected until the thousand years are finished. R2051:3
And he -- This verse expresses the results of the new trial for life
everlasting made possible by his ransom-sacrifice. R1598:4
Believeth not -- Man will be obliged to accept the great Mediator, but
upon those who do not accept God's arrangements, the wrath of God will
still abide. R4840:6
No man can be made alive in Christ or through Christ except by coming into
him and through him. All who would have life in that age must become
children of Christ, begotten of truth. R1219:2
It is because the death of Christ will save none but believers, specially
and everlastingly, that God wills that all shall come to a knowledge of
the facts. R1253:4, 1077:4
Not see life -- Perfect life. E386
Everlasting life. R4881:6
Eternal life. HG424:1
That is, get fully free from death. R1077:4
Has no right to, nor promise of, life. R1219:2
Although the Lord's provision is abundant for all, it is not applicable to
any except on certain conditions, namely (1) that they accept Christ as
their Redeemer, and (2) that they strive to avoid sin and live in harmony
with God and righteousness. E385
A recovery of what was lost (Adam's perfections and opportunities) comes
to all, but God's gift of everlasting life through Jesus Christ is only to
those who obey him. R1265:4, 1106:6
None out of Christ will be made alive, fully resurrected, though all
experience the awakening from death--the first step of the process of
resurrection and their trial to prove their worthiness or unworthiness.
R1592:4
There surely will be some lost, as well as some saved. R3083:2
The Apostles Peter, Paul, James and John--aside from the founder of
Christianity, certainly the greatest theologians of the Christian Church,
and the only ones whose teachings can be recognized as of plenary
inspiration--have not one word to say relative to the punishment for sin
being eternal grief or eternal torment. HG305:5
The wrath of God -- The sentence of God. SM315:T
The sentence of death everlasting. R4881:6
The pronounced penalty for sin, the curse, the sentence, death. E404;
R4881:6, 2841:3, 2320:1; Q328:T; NS230:4, 405:4; NS707:2
The remainder of mankind are still under the death sentence, the wrath of
God. They are not under the sentence of eternal torment, but under the
curse, the condemnation of death. R4840:3
A good God, perfect in justice, wisdom, love and power, would exercise his
wrath, his anger, along reasonable, just and merciful lines and not
devilishly. NS707:2
Abideth on him -- Will continue to abide on him because of his refusal
to accept and obey the message of mercy. NS230:4
Leaving the unworthy subject to the just penalty always enunciated by the
great judge of all, death. E404
If not removed, either in this age or the next. R606:3
Speaking of the dying race from the judicial standpoint, our Savior called
them all dead. None has even a reckoned life, except such as by faith have
accepted him as their Life giver--Savior. CR131:2
The "wrath," the "curse," will be lifted from all who come into harmony
with God through Jesus the Mediator, and all who do not avail themselves
of this grace will be swallowed up of the second death. E439, 468; Q328-329
While all are to come under the control of the great Messiah, they are not
to be turned over perfect, but as they are found--in a dying condition,
the wrath of God, because of imperfection, still being upon them, still
subject to the weaknesses resulting from the sentence of death. R4819:1
Those who at the end of the hundred years of trial remain obstinate in
heart, and only obedient outwardly, under compulsion, shall be judged
hopeless "sinners" and will be cut off from all further trial for life.
R1772:3
Such as shall accept of Christ as their ransom, we are expressly told,
"shall be saved from wrath through him." (Rom. 5:9) R787:3
John 4
John 4:1
Jesus made -- At the hands of his disciples. R4130:2 Jesus and his
disciples practised John's baptism among the Jews. R5964:4
Baptized -- A similar work to John, using immersion as a token or sign
of the putting away of sin by the repentant one. R444:6, 5964:4; F428;
NS48:4; HG264:3
John 4:2
Baptized not -- Even as Paul baptized few, being an abler preacher than
others, while many could baptize as well as he. R1540:6
But his disciples -- James and John, as Jesus' representatives, had been
baptizing multitudes in water, "unto repentance and remission of
sins"--John's baptism. F442; NS53:2
John 4:3
He left Judea -- "He would not walk in Jewry, because the Jews sought to
kill him." (John 7:1) Thereafter we hear little of Jesus being in
Jerusalem except on festival occasions. R4130:2
In this he illustrated his instruction to his disciples, "When they shall
persecute you in one city, flee ye to another." Matt. 10:23 R3494:2
John 4:4
He must needs go through -- It was a difficult matter to avoid the

Samaritans, for the district called Samaria lay between Judea proper and
Galilee. R2423:2, 2574:1
Samaria -- A stretch of country lying between Judea and Galilee. We
might call it a county, and say that its chief city, of the same name, was
its county seat. R2574:1
John 4:6
Jacob's well -- 75 feet deep. It's mouth was so walled up as to form a

circular seat at its top. R4130:5
Jacob's well had a great reputation throughout that region because of the
purity of its waters. Most water was brackish, but Jacob's well struck a
crevice in the rock, which yielded a large supply of desirable water.
R2574:3
Dug 14 centuries before our Lord's time. A remarkably good well, deep and
abundantly supplied with water, well curbed at the top, with a small mouth
about 14 inches in diameter. R3495:6
Being wearied -- His weakness was not the result of inherited blemish or
sin, nor the weakness of imperfection, but of sacrifice. The gift which
costs nothing cannot be so highly esteemed as that which costs much.
R4138:2
Sat thus -- When Christ was weary, he rested; when he was hungry, he
partook of food, and never, in any case, worked a miracle for his own
present benefit, nor for his disciples. R1754:6, 379:1; F650
John 4:7
A woman of Samaria -- The Lord's principal communications all through

the Gospel age have been with the humble. R3496:1, 2574:4, 2424:2
It is remarkable that on so many occasions our Lord said remarkable things
to not very remarkable people under not very remarkable circumstances.
R3495:6
Unto her -- Our Lord was quite willing to mingle with any class. He
shunned no opportunity for doing good to any, either publicans or sinners.
He reproved and rebuked the scribes and Pharisees for their aloofness.
R4130:5
The opportunity of speaking to one earnest listener should be esteemed far
greater than that of addressing a thousand inattentive ones. R4132:1
Had there been a company of Jews to whom the Lord could have talked at
this time, we are bound to suppose he would have, to the neglect of this
disreputable Samaritan. But their being none of the "children" to be
"fed," he let some of the crumbs of knowledge and blessing fall to the
Samaritans. R2574:5, 2423:5
"Do good unto all men as we have opportunity, especially to the household
of faith." (Gal. 6:10) R2574:5
We should serve the household of faith wherever possible, but when this is
impossible, and an opportunity offers, we should seek to do some good to
others--to speak words which may help them by and by. R2423:5
Give me to drink -- A gift of water or of food, extended or received at
that time, signified fellowship, a covenant of good will. R4130:5
It was evidently with less of a desire for the water for his own comfort,
than from a desire to teach the woman, that our Lord asked her for a
drink. R2423:3
Thus putting himself in a measure under obligation to her. In one sentence
he broke down the icy barrier which had always existed between the Jews
and the Samaritans. R3496:1
This is one of the best methods of approaching all--condescension and an
expression of confidence in their generosity, with the implication which
it gives of willingness to return the favor in some manner. R2574:5
John 4:8
To buy meat -- He would not command stones to become bread to satisfy

his hunger, but rather sent his disciples to a village to buy meat. R379:1
John 4:9
How is it -- Her question has in it the element of boldness, which is

explained later on by her acknowledgment that she was not a virtuous
woman. R2574:3
This woman was a sinful woman, and a type of thousands of others, men and
women, who would act very differently if they only knew. R1712:1
Being a Jew -- At once recognizing each other's nationality, not merely
by facial lineaments, but also by distinctive features of dress--the Jews
having a white fringe in their garments, while the Samaritans used blue.
R2574:3
Askest drink of me -- She probably thought of him as one willing to
receive a favor in his extremity, but at other times regarding her and her
people as too far beneath him to have any dealings with her. R1711:6
Had she known and been able to appreciate her privilege of giving a cup of
cold water to the only begotten and well-beloved Son of God, how gladly
would she have rendered the service requested. R1711:6
Have no dealings -- Not that the Samaritans were averse to having
fellowship with the Jews, but that the Jews, imbued with the thought that
the promises of God were to the seed of Abraham exclusively, would "have
no dealings with the Samaritans." R2423:4
While dealing with them commercially, the Jews would have no intercourse
with them socially and religiously. R2574:1
Never eat with them, nor marry, nor have any dealings with them. R2604:2,
1000:3, 284:1; HG385:6
The Jews were right in not acknowledging the Samaritans. This was not a
matter of bigotry, but of divine regulation and prohibition. (Deut. 7:1-6)
R2574:2
Our Lord distinctly set the seal of approval to this course, saying, "Go
not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans
enter ye not; for I am not sent save to the lost sheep of the house of
Israel." (Matt. 10:5) R2574:2, 2069:3
There was a greater religious antipathy existing between Samaria and the
Jews than between the Jews and other heathen people because the Samaritan
faith came closer to the Jewish faith and was therefore more competitive
than the heathen faiths. R3495:3
The Samaritans -- A mixed people whom the Jews despised, and with whom
they would have no dealings. R3804:3
Being of mixed blood, Jewish and Gentile, they were counted by the Jews as
though they were Gentiles. R2960:3, 2069:3
Descendants of those heathen people planted in Palestine by the Babylonian
government when the Israelites were deported to the countries of Babylon.
R4130:2, 3495:3, 2574:1, 2423:2
Galilee had been settled by Gentile emigrants. Subsequently these Gentiles
gathered more particularly in the vicinity of the city of Samaria and
became known as Samaritans. Noting the hopes of the Israelites, they were
inclined to claim a certain share in the blessings belonging to the people
into whose lands they had been introduced. R3468:3
Some of the careless, ignorant and vicious amongst the Jews, disregarding
the divine law, intermarried with the Samaritans. Thus an element of
Jewish blood was intermingled amongst them. R4130:3, 2423:6
John 4:10
Jesus answered -- While probably thirsty, Jesus was more anxious to give
the word of truth than to receive the natural water. R3496:1
Although weary, he was ready to sacrifice his own convenience that he
might be helpful to another, even to a social outcast. R2574:5
If thou knewest -- Displaying great tact by not answering her query but
directing her attention to a deeper truth. Some mistakenly believe they
must use no tact, that to do so would be dishonest. Such should note, here
and elsewhere, our Lord's tactfulness. R4130:6
Similarly, let us in all the affairs of life try to turn the attention of
those with whom we have contact towards the heavenly, the spiritual
things. R4130:6
Observe the simple condescension of the Lord in thus endeavoring to make
plain the way of life to one who had strayed far from the path of
rectitude. R1702:6
The gift of God -- The very words customarily used by the
water-carriers, who, with water-skins filled with water from such wells,
went about the cities crying out in their own language, The gift of God!
The gift of God! R3496:2
Thou wouldest have asked -- While physically he was weary, and needed
the natural water, yet in a higher sense the woman was the weary one,
heavy-laden with sin, who needed the invigorating water of life of which
our Lord himself is the fountain. R2423:5
Let us offer the water of life to all as opportunities may present
themselves. R1712:4
He would have given -- Hungry and thirsty, yet dispensing living bread.
R1063:2*
Living water -- Flowing water, not stagnant, always fresh. R2574:6,
2423:6
Not the holy Spirit, for this is distinctly termed the gift of the Father,
and is symbolized by the anointing oil. The water of life is the truth,
which both cleanses and refreshes. R2423:6
Water is a symbol of truth. The invitation is to accept or partake of the
favor of everlasting life through obedience to the truth. R1363:3, 1878:3
The truth which brings to us the privilege of manifesting faith and
obedience, and thus "laying hold on eternal life," is called the "water of
life" and the "bread of life." E386
The river of water of life does not flow at the present time; it cannot
flow out to the "nations" until all the Little Flock as well-springs shall
be brought together in the Kingdom. R2424:4; HG410:5
John 4:11
Thou hast nothing -- The woman's slowness of comprehension is striking.

Our Lord's patience as a teacher, with a congregation of only one, and
that one a woman of a low caste, should be a lesson to all of his
followers who seek to distribute to others a taste of the water of life.
R2424:1
She perceived that our Lord was not provided with the necessary bucket and
cord. R4103:6
The well is deep -- The well from which our Lord gives us to drink is
deep, nor have we anything to draw with. Under the new dispensation of the
holy Spirit we are abundantly supplied--"The spirit searcheth all things,
yea the deep things of God." (1 Cor. 2:10) R2575:2
John 4:12
Our father Jacob -- Notwithstanding their rejection by the Jews from

heritage in the Abrahamic Covenant, they nevertheless trusted in some
blessing. R2423:6
These Gentiles, through contact with the Jews, and through intermarriage
with certain renegade Jews, obtained a smattering of knowledge of the
Jewish hopes and worship, combining these to some extent with false ideas
of their own. R2574:1
Their belief in God, and the fact that they worshipped the true God, did
not constitute them proper subjects for the Gospel call. R2423:2
Israelites, mixed and mingled with the Gentiles, abandoning the sign of
circumcision in the flesh, ceased to be Israelites, being as much
strangers to the Covenant as any other Gentiles. R2423:6
Thus, from our Lord's treatment of the Samaritans, we can readily see the
baselessness of the expectation of some who style themselves
"Anglo-Israelites" and claim to be descendants of deported Israelites who
abandoned circumcision. R2424:1
John 4:13
Jesus answered -- Again our Lord tactfully ignored the question in the
woman's interest--not to deceive her or take advantage of her, but for her
benefit, leading her mind from the natural water to the spiritual.
R4131:1, 2474:6
Shall thirst again -- Errors, falsities, may satisfy temporarily the
craving of those who have never yet tasted of the truth, the water of
life. R2424:2
Thirst is desire, craving, longing. Physical thirst is said to be much
more painful than physical hunger. There is also a soul-thirst and a water
of life which alone can satisfy it. R2574:6
As our physical systems call for water continually and cannot do without
it, so we have longings and ambitions and thirsts of a higher intellectual
order. These the world is endeavoring to satisfy, but the thirst for
wealth, influence and power is insatiable. R3496:3
A man's greatness is measured (1) by the number of his thirsts; (2) by the
character or quality of those thirsts; (3) by the capacity and intensity
of those thirsts. R2574:6
Alexander the Great wept that there were no more worlds that he might
conquer. Solomon, after having tasted of all the streams of pleasure and
novelty, cried out, Vanity of vanities, all is vanity! (Eccl. 1:2) R3496:3
John 4:14
Shall never thirst -- Nothing can give permanent, lasting satisfaction,

except the truth. R2424:2 Those who drink of it have no cravings for the
vain philosophies of men which make void the Word of God. We are still
drinking, but we shall soon be satisfied--when we awake in his likeness in
the first resurrection. R1703:4
The lesson of life is not that we should be without desires and plenty of
them, but that these desires should be transformed from sinful desires to
righteous desires. R2575:1
Improper longings are to be resisted, controlled, rooted out, while proper
longings are to be built up, cultivated, to be supplied and to be enjoyed
forever. R2575:1
What the whole world is seeking for and failing to get, our Lord Jesus
gives to his people--water of life, satisfaction. R3496:4
In him -- Each believer. R2507:6
A well of water -- Immortality. R5865:5
Fountains of truth for others. R2424:2
Water in its purity is a fit symbol of Christ our Life. Here at the laver,
the new life of the Christian begins. R117:4,5*
The laver of the Jewish age was but the brazen laver of the Tabernacle,
and later Solomon's brazen sea; now in the Gospel age it is a well of
water in each believer's heart, overflowing many times; then, in the
Millennial age, this pure water of life will flow wide and deep from out
of the city and over the world. R118:1*
The Bride is to become a "partaker of the divine nature." She is to have
within her "a well of living water [life] springing up," while the rest of
mankind may come to the fountain to drink. (Rev. 7:17) R252:4
God's grace, at the present time, is not comparable to a river, but a well
of water springing up, and those Christians in whom God's grace is a
fountain of life and refreshment are comparatively few. R2507:6
Each true follower of Jesus is a "well of water springing up unto
everlasting life." By and by when these well-springs are all brought
together and united with our Lord, then the Bride and Bridegroom will
constitute the great river of life or water of life. (Rev. 22:1) Q750:2,
823:2; R3410:5, 1703:1; CR216:3
Springing up -- A perennial well-spring continually rising up in her
heart. R1703:1
The "water of life" is now in his followers a "spring" of truth, grace and
everlasting life. The Father hath life in himself, and has granted unto
the Son life in himself, that he might share this life with his disciples.
R5088:6, 1642:4
You have a well-spring in your heart if you have the begetting of the holy
Spirit. CR216:3
John 4:15
Give me this water -- Evidencing by the quickness with which she grasped
the presentation and her eagerness to get the living water that she was no
ordinary woman. R4131:1
John 4:16
Jesus saith -- Again he turned the subject. It was necessary that the
woman should appreciate the fact that she was a sinner and under the death
sentence. R4131:1
Not answering her request for the true water of life (1) because the time
had not yet come; (2) she was a Samaritan and could not receive divine
favor until the appointed time; and (3) she was not yet in the condition
of heart to receive the water of life. It was only necessary to explain
the latter which she could the more readily understand. R2575:2
While he could not invite her, a Samaritan, to a place in the Kingdom, he
could nevertheless appropriately give her some food for thought which
later on might do her good and prepare her to have a hearing ear. R2423:3
Our Lord was willing to confer with her, though she was unprepared to
receive the blessings (1) because he was making the fullest use of an
opportunity; (2) despite her sinful course, he saw traits of honesty in
her character; and (3) he might reasonably hope that six years later, when
there was no restriction to Gentiles, she might inquire further. R2575:3
John 4:18
Not thy husband -- Many Christian people would utterly disdain to speak
to such a woman because they have imbibed the spirit of their religious
teachings, that God delivers such over to the devil. They need a clearer
knowledge respecting God's attitude toward sinners. R2574:5
John 4:19
The woman saith -- Shrewdly she led the conversation from matters too
personal to herself, and our Lord did not follow up the subject, but left
it. Many need to learn this lesson of first awakening a consciousness of
sin, and then leaving it to work at greater leisure. It is not for us to
break hearts, but to find those who are broken-hearted. R4131:2
Anxious to avoid any discussion of her own character and life, she
skillfully turned the question to a theological one. Men and women today
would rather discuss theological and denominational problems, than turn
their glance inward and note the inconsistencies of their own lives.
R2575:5
Yet she feared him not. She fled not from him. His kindliness, his
gentleness, his willingness to talk to a Samaritan woman, indicated that
she had found a friend. R4131:2
John 4:20
Our fathers worshipped -- They realized that the Jews had been God's
favored people, but thought of them as rejected from divine favor and of
themselves as having become their successors, not only in possessing the
land of Samaria, but also in some degree successors in the blessing of
Abraham, Isaac and Moses. R3495:3
In this mountain -- Holding that the simplicity of worship observed by
Abraham, Isaac and Jacob without tabernacle or temple, but in the
mountain, was the proper method of approach to God. They apparently
thought that Israel had drifted into a mere formalism of worship. R2069:5
The Samaritans, being excluded by the Jews, claimed that they had
something better--the very mountain in which Jacob worshipped God. R4130:3
The Samaritans today [1887] think that they are now living in the age of
"apostasy," which will only end with the appearance of Taheb, the Messiah,
who will re-establish worship on Gerizim in its pristine purity. R906:5*
In Jerusalem -- Pious Jews sought to come at least once every year to
the Temple in Jerusalem to present themselves before the Lord for his
blessing. R2069:3
John 4:21
Jesus saith -- Our Lord did not closely press the moral question. It is
sufficient that attention be called to a wrong. This is more efficacious
than if they be teased and angered and put on the defensive. R2575:5
The hour cometh -- That hour began after the Jewish house had been left
desolate, after the new dispensation had been inaugurated; and it still
continues. R4131:3
Nor yet at Jerusalem -- During past times he did indeed prescribe forms
of worship and times and places, but now all that come unto the Father "in
spirit and in truth" through Christ are accepted. R4131:4
Our Lord was not bent on making of her a Jewish proselyte. The time for
that was past. The harvest time had come. R4131:3, 2070:2
While it is true that forms and ceremonies are not commanded, on the other
hand some of the Lord's people fall through ignoring all regularity in
prayer, with too little formality in approaching the throne of grace,
without a sufficiency of humility and reverence. R4131:4, 2071:6
John 4:22
Ye worship -- While the Samaritans were not typical, we find in

spiritual Israel some like the Samaritans--strangers from the covenants
and promises because not of the same family, not begotten again of the
holy Spirit. R4131:5
Ye know not what -- Our Lord makes it clear that up to that time the
Jews were right in their place and manner of worship. It was according to
divine law; while the Samaritans were guided not by the divine Word, but
by their own impressions. R2069:6
Not being of the stock of Israel they were in no sense of the word heirs
of the Abrahamic Covenant. Not discerning this cardinal truth in its true
light, they were confused as to every feature of the divine plan. R4131:5
Not one in ten of the members of the nominal church know what they believe
or why they believe it. HG371:5
Undoubtedly, this is true of the majority of worshipers of all various
sects and creeds. They exercise the organ of veneration, partly under the
impulse of fear, but without particular desire to become acquainted with
Jehovah. SM79:2
In our conversation on religious subjects with those corresponding to the
Samaritans, it may not be using wisdom to say, "Ye worship ye know not
what," even though this be strictly true. R4131:6
Rejection of the doctrine of eternal torment as the punishment for sin,
and the supposition that that doctrine is taught in the Scriptures, is the
foundation for the skepticism which has spread so far as to undermine
their entire faith. R3905:3
We know -- Making clear that up to that time the Jews were right in
their place and manner of worship. R2069:6, 5321:5
The Temple at Jerusalem was called the house of God, and the people went
up to the Temple to pray. Apparently it was generally understood that they
might not pray anywhere and everywhere. Jesus here intimates that the Jews
were right in this claim. R5200:3
The Jews. R3468:3, 2684:2
The Jews understood that they were the natural seed of Abraham, and that
from them must come the great Messiah. R4131:5
"We Jews may worship God because, under the divine covenant made with our
nation, we have the privilege of coming to God in prayer, and of having
God hear and answer prayer. We are worshipping according to God's
directions." R5321:5
Salvation -- The blessing of mankind through an opportunity of a
deliverance from the curse by the promised seed of Abraham. R2069:6
Of the Jews -- He did not say, For the Jews, nor, To the Jews
exclusively. It was of them in the sense that the Master was of that
nation according to the flesh, the Messiah could not have been born of any
other nation. R4131:5
Christ, his apostles, and all the remnant were Jews. They received the
holy Spirit and became the light beams to the Gentiles. R66:1*
The Jewish "remnant" were the nucleus around which the gospel Church was
afterward gathered. R25:1*
In order that his special typical dealings with them as a people should
work them no injury, for the Jew was under a special law and its special
condemnation. R970:4
John 4:23
The hour cometh -- The hour came with Pentecost, and the time has
continued for the past eighteen centuries, in which these sons of God have
been permitted to worship God in spirit and in truth. R2071:1
A great dispensational change was imminent, in which all distinctions and
barriers of place and manner would pass away. R2575:5
Worship the Father -- Worship is that outward manifestation of reverence
for holy things which is pleasing to God, if done in a proper manner and
from the right motive. But it is possible to assume the attitude of
worship, and yet not offer worship that would be acceptable to God. R5321:1
Not simply prayer, praise, supplication and thanksgiving, but rather a
life of worship--a life in which, through the begetting of the spirit and
knowledge of the divine plan, the individual becomes so at-one with God
that it is his meat and drink to do the Father's will. R2071:6, 5480:1
When praying, we must come only in the name of Christ; and we must come
thoughtfully and earnestly. R5835:3, 5480:1
In spirit -- The new dispensation will be a spirit dispensation, and
those who in that dispensation will draw near to God and be accepted of
him must worship him in spirit and in truth. R2070:2
Those who delight to do God's will, to serve his cause, even at the cost
of sacrifice to earthly interests. R4715:6
We might have the truth, but if we did not go to him in spirit--in the
right attitude of heart--our worship would not be acceptable, no matter
how much we might know. R5321:2
Those who are appreciative of God's character should desire to have this
character-likeness. R5082:4
Those to whom God wishes to grant eternal life are those who will gladly
obey his laws. R4991:5
He would not compel our loyalty; he seeketh not the worship of slaves, or
any compulsory work or service. R2287:2, 4400:3, 770:2
The Christian learns to love his God and to wish to do the Father's will
only. Nothing is acceptable in the nature of a sacrifice that is not
prompted by that love. R4841:5
It would be contrary to this principle to define prayer as a duty, and to
stipulate a set time or place or a formal manner. R4984:4, 799:3
Church buildings of today are more for pride and show than to glorify God.
Let us not be deceived with vain pretensions of earthly glory; but,
shunning these things, let us remember that wherever two or three are met
together in the Lord's name, that is the house of the Lord. (Matt. 18:20)
R2010:5
Whatever is given to the Lord's service should be given with a free hand
and a ready heart. It is a privilege to give to the Lord and his cause;
for the Almighty is not poor, that he should need our gifts. R5781:3,
2511:2
Take for instance, Nathanael. Notice how the Lord addressed him as an
Israelite indeed in whom was no guile. (John 1:47) R2071:1
And in truth -- Intelligently. R5082:4
A knowledge of the truth is essential before we can worship in spirit and
in truth. As a spirit of worship without the truth is not sufficient or
accepted, much more a knowledge of truth is not sufficient or acceptable
without a spirit of worship. R2191:5
A man might be a heathen and yet have a great deal of the spirit of
worship, but he could not render acceptable worship unless he had the
truth. R5321:2
Cornelius had the right heart intention to come near to God, but God did
not accept him at that time because he did not have the truth. R5321:2
He had neither the truth nor the spirit of the truth which would have
permitted him to offer any higher worship than that of fear and obedience.
R2071:4
The truth which was sent to Cornelius is the essential thing we must all
have to come near to God and be acceptable--that, though he was a sinner,
God had provided in Jesus a Redeemer, a sanctification for sin. R5321:2
"In vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of
men." (Matt. 15:9) R2079:1
God's creatures need to know him well and truly in order to appreciate him
and in order to have confidence in his gracious promises. Such a knowledge
is necessary to a true worship such as the Lord appreciates. NS503:5
Seeketh such -- For joint-heirship with their Redeemer in the Kingdom.
HG447:6
The whole mission of the Gospel may be properly understood to be for the
purpose of seeking out from amongst mankind in general these true
worshipers. R2071:5
Any who will not worship from this motive shall eventually be destroyed.
R5429:5
The call is not to an outward gloss of morality, nor to an earthly church
membership, but a call to saintship, to a full consecration of heart and
life to the Lord. R3899:4
Not such as are moved by fear or dread; on the contrary, such as worship
from a heart appreciation of his glorious character and wonderful plan of
salvation through Jesus. NS344:4
Those who delight to do his will, those who delight to serve his cause,
even at the cost of sacrifice to earthly interests. Q553:5
In the end, even with the world, only such will be finally approved and be
granted life eternal beyond the Millennial age. R4410:6; CR431:2
Such as both love and trust him. F147
To worship him -- There is undoubtedly danger that some might render too
much honor to human instruments whom God is pleased to use in connection
with the service of the truth--a danger of man-worship. (Rev. 22:9) R2079:5
We want no homage or reverence for ourselves or our writings, nor do we
wish that any should be called by our name, nor would we have our writings
reverenced or regarded as infallible, or on a par with the holy
Scriptures. R2080:4
Let us resolve that we will worship only the Lord our God--that we will
neither worship nor serve sectarianism in any of its many forms, nor
mammon with its many enticements and rewards, nor fame, nor friends, nor
self. R2497:4
Thus the Apostle Paul's ministry was summed up by his accusers: "This
fellow persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the Law." (Acts 18:13)
R2071:5
John 4:24
God is a Spirit -- A spirit being of unlimited power, who can read the
very thoughts and intents of our heart. R4410:6
A spirit being; invisible to men, mighty, powerful, and influential. He is
an intelligent power. CR398:2 The Scriptures distinctly tell us that a
spirit has not flesh and blood, as we have; but they as distinctly inform
us of the divine personality, and use the members and qualities of the
human body to bring the Creator within range of our apprehension. SM623:1;
OV2:4
Intellectuals are accepting the thought of an impersonal God. From our
standpoint this is tantamount to saying, "There is no living and true
God." SM621:3; OV1:2
To have no personal God must eventually signify to the reasoning mind no
law-giver, no judge, no justice, no love, no mercy, no personal
relationship as between father and child. Thus would be lost the very
basis of Christian faith and doctrine. SM624:1; OV2:6
The Bible makes no attempt to describe heaven itself, or its inhabitants,
merely saying that "God is a Spirit." Men must discern God in his works,
the noblest of which is perfect man, made in his moral likeness, on the
earthly plane. R4966:4
God has not implanted a spark of this spirit, or immortal divinity, in man
through their first parents, but man was created a fleshly likeness of his
Creator, who is a spirit being. E310
In spirit -- Honest-hearted. R4410:6 Any who do not desire at heart to
have communion with God would not be welcome at the throne of grace. Any
who merely pray in a formalistic manner are not heard at all, and might
better not pray at all. NS675:1; R3805:2
With the heart, sincerely. R2575:5
While men might be deceived with outward pretensions, God looks upon the
heart, and accepts only the soul's desires. NS673:1
It is only with your mind that you can worship God in a way he will be
pleased with. Many people worship God in an outward form, and their hearts
are far from him. CR398:3
And in truth -- In harmony with the divine arrangement, in the true
way--through Christ. R2575:5
No one can possess the spirit of the truth without having considerable of
the letter of the truth upon fundamental principles. R2079:4
Every error hides some truth; every misunderstanding of the character of
God or of the fundamental features of his plan is so much to hinder men
from becoming to the fullest extent possible worshippers of God. R2079:3
Not such as could not do otherwise, and not such as would do so under
constraint, but such who do so voluntarily, from love and appreciation of
his principles of righteousness, and of himself, which these represent.
E468; R5758:1
Not those who need to be forced; we are to work to the best of our
ability. R5119:1
And not such as are frightened into his service. B30; SM65:2
Can we "worship in spirit and truth" the God who the creeds tell us
arranged for all to be born damned, either to purgatory or to eternal
torment? Could we respect his honesty if he labeled this "good tidings of
great joy to all people"? (Luke 2:10) NS862:4; R2079:2
Although they might bow the knee in fear and submission, they would find
it impossible to bow down their hearts in full acquiescence. R2079:3
John 4:25
Messias cometh -- Her people accepted the five books of Moses, and from
them drew their hope of a coming Messiah. R906:2*
John 4:26
Am he -- Showing clearly that our Lord was the Messiah, the

long-promised seed of Abraham. R5300:5
Our Lord expressed to her more plainly, perhaps, than to any other person
during his ministry, the great fact that he was the Messiah. R4132:1
4:28
Saith to the men -- The selfish spirit which would have bidden her to
keep the information to herself, or the slothful spirit which would not
bestir itself to inform others--either one would have marked the woman as
unworthy of the Lord's favor. R4132:2
John 4:32
I have meat -- "The hidden manna." (Rev. 2:17) R1820:6, 1957:6

The same kind of spiritual food which Mary appreciated more than Martha,
when Jesus said "Mary hath chosen that good part." NS86:4
John 4:34
My meat -- As the burnt-offering represents the value of Christ's work

in the Father's estimation, so the meat offering sets forth his perfect
human character and conduct. R84:1*
"Man shall not live by bread alone." Our meat is to do the will of God. To
ask to be relieved from the legitimate effects of that course would be out
of harmony with the very spirit of sacrifice. R1689:6
To do the will -- Though tempted in all points like as we are, he
ignored his own will and all suggestions from others contrary to God's
plan and obeyed God implicitly. Therein lay the secret of his success.
R1125:5; HG292:6
The supreme principle upon which we have to run our lives is to adhere,
through good report and ill, through temptation, prosperity and adversity,
to the will of God, wherever that may lead us. R2694:3*
That was his life, and if we partake of his life on earth, we shall be
partakers of his resurrection life. R327:6*
Him that sent me -- The title of the Son of God officially applied to
the man Christ Jesus before his birth, and this title he continually
approved. NS256:6
The Son claims no higher honor than to be the Father's agent and
messenger. HG297:2 The Son never attempted to diminish the Father's glory,
but always to add to it. R920:4
To finish his work -- The finishing work was the harvest, and, so far as
related to the Jews, in favor, it ended when Jesus had left their house
desolate and said, "It is finished." (John 19:30) R27:1*
He was superintending a finishing work, which he calls reaping or harvest.
R114:6*
Later he says, "I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do."
(John 17:4) R116:4*
God is the great master workman and Jesus is the great chief agent in
doing all the work God intended should be done. CR346:3
John 4:35
Say not ye -- Jesus is again due to be present; say not now that there
are yet many years and then cometh harvest. R600:2
Then cometh harvest -- Greek, therismos, reaping harvest. R223:1*
A time of reaping rather than of sowing, a time of testing, of reckoning,
of settlement and of rewarding. C135
Each dispensation ends, not only with an advent of Christ, but with a
harvest. HG52:2
The harvest of the Jewish age being a type of the harvest of this age,
observation and comparison of the various features of that harvest afford
very clear ideas concerning the work to be accomplished in the present
harvest. C135
I say unto you -- He directs through the Word by opening the
understanding to discern the times and seasons there indicated, and the
work to be accomplished therein. R600:3
The fields -- The seed of which had been sown by Moses and the prophets.
B233
They are white -- Truths, as harvest sunshine, are warm and strong, and
tend to ripen the wheat. They also lead, through a clearer knowledge of
the truth, to a separation between the wheat and the tares. R1073:6
If the sowing has been a general one with a view to the gathering of the
Lord's Little Flock from every nation, people, kindred and tongue, we must
expect the harvest work to be similarly broad, widely extended. R4000:2
Already to harvest -- To the Jewish house Jesus presented himself as
Reaper; to the Christian house he does the same. B238
John 4:36
He that reapeth -- Our Lord's special teachings were such as to gather

the wheat, who were such already, and to separate the chaff of the Jewish
nation from the wheat. C135
All of the Lord's people filled with his spirit must be engaged in harvest
work in some manner--using their abilities and opportunities. R2490:5
Being already in the "harvest" time, harvest work should engage the time,
service and thoughts of the Lord's servants, who now, like the disciples
at the first advent, are to do the reaping work. B365
Let us fear lest having an opportunity of laboring in the harvest field
any of us should miss that opportunity through any disinterestedness.
CR309:5
Each one desiring to reap should first see what lies nearest to his hand
and in which department of the service he could most effectively and most
economically enlist his talents. R3985:5
The separation of the true wheat from the mere professors, the tares, goes
on as quietly but as surely as a similar separation did in the end of the
Jewish age. R1073:6
Receiveth wages -- Every day. Everyone who is doing any service ought to
look for his wages every day and see that he gets them before he goes to
bed--the blessing and joy of the Lord in his heart, the wages of his favor
and an appreciation of the fact that they are near to him. CR63:6 Even our
smallest services are sure to be blessed and owned by our loving Lord.
R2457:5
Whoever would serve the Lord would be intent on serving the brethren; and
the more their need, the better the opportunity; and the greater our zeal
the greater our results for others, and the greater the blessing for
ourselves. R5824:1
Let us fear that if we don't reap enough, we cannot get as much wages as
we hope to get. CR309:5
Unto life eternal -- To the glory, honor and immortality to which we
have been called. NS713:6
John 4:37
Another reapeth -- Many laborers, though anxious to be at work, seem not

to know whether to sow or reap. Perhaps they want to sow and reap at the
same time. Failing to comprehend God's plan, they work haphazardly, as
they suppose God is doing. R628:4*
John 4:38
I sent you -- The work done by Jesus and his apostles amongst the Jews
eighteen centuries ago was a harvesting work. R4968:3
The Lord at the present time is the great reaper and supervisor of this
harvest. NS713:5
To reap -- The harvest of the fruitage of the Jewish age. R4968:3
To reap the fruits of those centuries of effort, and to test the people by
the message, "The Kingdom of heaven is at hand" (Matt. 10:7), and the King
is present. C136
Our chief work is where the Gospel has already been proclaimed, this being
the harvest of the Gospel age. R4360:2
Ye bestowed no labor -- The plowing and sowing connected with the Jewish
dispensation was in the far past: the Egyptian bondage served to do a
plowing work; the giving of the Law and the exhortation of their prophets,
all constituted a seed-sowing, harrowing and cultivating experience.
SM185:2
Other men -- The patriarchs, prophets and other holy men of old. C136;
R4891:3, 628:4*, 580:2, 263:5, 19:6
Other saints have labored faithfully in the past, sowing the precious seed
which we are now privileged to help in harvesting. R877:1
After his resurrection, Christ sent his disciples into all the world to
preach the gospel of the Kingdom--a sowing work. R628:4*
Into their labors -- Whether it was at the beginning, or now at the
close of the age--the time of the reaping--it is all one work, and there
is one purpose being served, the gathering of the elect. R5302:2
While the Lord's work was that of reaping, he blended it with a sowing.
R5018:3, 4891:3; C135
As reapers of the fruitage of others' toil. NS626:3; R4360:2
John 4:39
The saying of the woman -- Women, as well as men, are accountable to God
for the use of the talents in the Church, be they many or be they few.
R1549:2
John 4:40
He abode there -- In Acts 8 and 9:31 we have clear indication that the
work of grace flourished amongst the Samaritans after the door of
opportunity was open to them. No doubt this later fruitage developed from
the words of grace and truth which our Lord dropped on the occasion of the
visit here referred to. R4132:3
John 4:43
Into Galilee -- In one sense a better field for labor than Judea because
the people, while outwardly less religious, were more ready to receive the
Lord, being less shackled with sectarianism and the burdens of the law
imposed by the teachings of the Pharisees. R4132:3
John 4:44
Hath no honor -- It may have been in recognition of this proverb that

our Lord commenced his ministry at Jerusalem rather than in Galilee.
R3494:2
It is a trait of human nature to lightly esteem things with which we are
intimately acquainted. "Distance lends enchantment to the view." R2424:3,
3494:2
When a hero or saint is seen to be like an ordinary man--weak where others
are strong or ignorant of some things that others know--it is almost
impossible to recognize him as a hero or saint. The Lord's people must
look over these things and recognize the relationship to the Lord before
we can "love as brethren." R3494:3
Our Lord did not begin his ministry in Nazareth where almost 28 years of
his life had been spent and where consequently, he was well-known to the
people. R2579:1
John 4:45
Received him -- He had honor amongst his own countrymen because of his
fame in Judea, and hence they received him more respectfully than they
otherwise might have done. R3494:2
Things that he did -- It seems probable that after his first miracle at
Cana he was in Judea for the feast of the Passover, and at that time
performed many notable miracles, on account of which his fame went abroad.
R2424:3, 3494:1
For instance, Julius Caesar, who by all the world is acknowledged to have
been a great man, was lightly esteemed by Cassius, his intimate friend and
servant. His closeness hindered him from seeing the greatness which
others, less close, could readily discern. R2424:6
At Jerusalem -- Jerusalem was the representative city of that nation,
and properly enough our Lord's principle miracles and teachings would
thence reach the whole people better than from any other location. R3494:2
John 4:46
A certain nobleman -- The word rendered "nobleman" in this text might

more literally be rendered "king's officer," and the supposition of some
is that this was Chuza, Herod's steward, whose wife, Joanna, was one of
the women who subsequently ministered to Jesus. R4132:6
Jairus, an influential man and a ruler in the synagogue, was no doubt
acquainted with this nobleman. His knowledge of this case no doubt helped
to increase his own faith in the Lord's power manifested in the healing of
his daughter. (Mark 5:22-24, 35-43) R2617:1
At Capernaum -- About twenty miles distant from Cana. R2425:1
John 4:47
He went unto him -- Faith must grow, and before it can grow it must lead
to some kind of works. Chuza's primary faith led to his journey to our
Lord, by which he attested his faith. But generally there must be a
necessity, as in Chuza's case--his son's illness. R4133:3
John 4:48
Except ye see -- Testing his faith. Evidently this was a refusal of the
nobleman's request, and had his faith been slight, he probably would have
accepted it thus. R3494:4, 4132:6, 2425:1
Often the Lord does not answer our prayers immediately, but, delaying the
answer, tests our faith. He is pleased to have us hold on to him by faith.
R3494:5
Will not believe -- Implying that the highest order of faith would be
that which would not require such ocular demonstrations of divine power,
that could trust the Lord without the proofs of miracles. R3495:5
John 4:49
Ere my child die -- "Don't, please don't, wait to discuss a matter of

faith. Realize my position as a father and my interest in the subject--do
come now." R4133:1
John 4:50
Thy son liveth -- Having tested his faith and made it stronger, our Lord
answered the request and healed the son, but in a manner calculated to
still further strengthen his faith. R3494:5
When the Lord does grant our requests, the blessings frequently come to us
through a different channel or in a different manner from what we had in
mind. R3494:5
Our Lord did not heal all the sick nor awaken all the dead. That great
work belongs to the future, to the Millennial Kingdom. What he did do in
these directions was merely to illustrate his power. R3494:6
It is part and parcel of the laws of nature that the will should control
and direct the human system. Likewise the divine mind or will has control,
not only of the divine being, but also of all things in the universe.
R3495:2
The man believed -- His faith brought him a still greater blessing than
the physical recovery of his son's health, for it made him and his family
"believers" in the Messiah, and thus brought them within reach of the
great privilege of sonship and joint-heirship. R2425:2
And he went -- The nobleman received the blessing through faith, and his
faith was attested by his conduct. So must it be with all who would be
acceptable to God. R2425:4, 3494:5
John 4:52
Yesterday -- It may be assumed that Chuza came the 25 miles on horseback

that very morning in great haste. He might have returned the same evening
at the same speed, but he does not arrive at home until the next day,
evidently taking the journey leisurely. R4133:2
The seventh hour -- 1:00 p.m. R4133:2
The fever -- Quite probably there were many others in Capernaum
similarly afflicted, as the city was built near low, marshy ground, and is
noted in history as a malarial locality, unhealthful. R2425:2
John 4:53
Himself believed -- Did he not believe before, when he started to see

the Master, when he was speaking with him, when he accepted his reply and
started home? Yes, but it led to a belief in the Lord of a still higher
and still deeper kind--not only that Jesus was able to work miracles, but
that he was the Messiah. R4133:2
And his whole house -- No doubt it was as a result of this that his
wife, Joanna, in harmony with his wishes, became one of the active
supporters of our Lord's ministry. R4133:2
John 5
John 5:1
There was a feast -- Probably the Feast of the Passover. R2433:3

These annual gatherings constituted the very best opportunity for reaching
the devout Jews from all parts of the Holy Land, and from surrounding
countries. R2433:3
When, by reason of the multitudes gathered from every part, the Jewish
leaders who sought his life would think it unwise to make any
demonstration against him for fear of a riotous disturbance. R4137:3
Jesus went up -- Drawn thither, according to the Jewish usage, to
celebrate one of the great annual feasts. R3501:1
John 5:2
A pool -- Today known as the "Pool of the Virgin." R2433:3

Bethesda -- The word Bethesda signifies "House of Mercy." R3500:3
God's tabernacle in the Millennial age will be a house of mercy, not
merely for the elect few, but God, through his elect Church--the Christ,
head and body--shall "bless all the families of the earth." (Gen. 12:3)
R3502:1
Having five porches -- Built for a public sanitarium for the benefit and
convenience of those who desired to use the agitated pool. R3500:6
This scene is compared to historical accounts of the bath of Ibrahim, near
Tiberias, on the sea of Galilee, and to the crowds at the grotto of
Lourdes. R3501:1
John 5:3
Impotent folk -- Their infirmities are indicated to have been something

akin to rheumatism, paralysis and other muscular or nervous ailments,
causing lack of vital power, withering or wasting of the muscles. R4137:5
Waiting for -- Old Greek MSS (the Sinaitic and the Vatican) omit these
last seven words of verse 3 and all of verse 4, quite probably added as a
marginal note explanatory of the views held by the people, or possibly the
thought of the copyist who made the marginal note. R3500:6, 2433:3
John 5:4
An angel -- The phenomenon not being understood, many considered that

the agitation of the pool was miraculous, attributing it to an angel from
heaven. R3500:3
This portion is not accurate and is not found in the oldest manuscripts,
and is appropriately omitted from the Revised Version. R4137:5
Troubled the water -- It is presumed that the spring which supplied the
pool was connected with a reservoir of gas, which really imparted to the
water some curative property. Or possibly it was connected with a siphoning
spring which overflowed at times. R4137:5, 3500:3, 2433:3
Travelers whose word is reliable declare that they have seen this spring
rise twelve inches in five minutes, and then subside about as quickly.
R2433:3
First -- Suggesting that the benefit was from the gases, since only
those who entered immediately were profited by it. The impregnating gases,
upon entering the pool, would speedily be combined with the atmosphere.
The first to enter would also benefit by inhaling some of the escaping
gases--ozone. R3500:3
Made whole -- Partly by the energizing influence of faith and partly by
some medicinal quality imparted to the waters by the gases. The cures
effected by it would cause the pool to have considerable fame. R3500:3
John 5:5
A certain man -- The miracles performed by Jesus and the apostles were
not attempts to heal all sickness, to banish pain and sorrow. There was a
great multitude of impotent folk at the pool of Siloam needing healing;
Jesus merely observed one of that multitude. R4980:2, 4137:6, 3501:2;
NS730:3
There was no record that he had more faith in the Lord than had the other
ones about him. On the contrary, the context shows that he had no
faith--that he did not even know the Lord, and did not learn until
afterward who had healed him. R3501:5
We may not at first see why the Lord favors some more than others with the
knowledge of his grace and truth, but we may assume that it lies in the
direction of honesty of heart, repentance of sin and a "feeling after
God." R3501:4
Since our Lord did not perform miracles for all the sick, neither are we
to expect all the sick of today to be cured, either by natural means or by
miraculous power. R3501:3
While there were many widows in Israel in the time of the famine, Elijah
was only sent to the widow of Zarephath; while there were many lepers in
Israel, Elisha healed of leprosy only Naaman, the Syrian. R3501:2
He was more helpless than the majority, and his case was apparently
hopeless in that it was chronic, of 38 years' standing. R2433:6
John 5:6
Jesus saw him -- If such scenes of sorrow, pain and trouble touch our
fallen hearts sensibly and deeply, how much more intense must have been
the sympathy which our Lord experienced in the presence of such
conditions. R3501:1
Wilt thou -- He thus let the matter depend upon his own will. So it is
now with those who are now being healed of moral ailments, now being
spiritually enlightened--the assistance is with themselves. R3501:5
Only those who will can be benefitted in this age. Our Lord testified
again, "Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life" (verse 40). To
come unto the Lord means to accept his arrangements, to answer his query,
saying, Yes, Lord, I would be made whole. R3501:6
all the world that "whosoever will" may have life and health eternal if he
will take the steps of faith and obedience. B40
John 5:8
Rise -- Our Lord did not even wait for him to manifest a previous faith
in his power, but allowed the man's faith to be testified by his
obedience. R2433:6
By these words the Lord awakened in the mind of the poor man desires and
aspirations which had almost died out. He was almost heartsick from
deferred hope. (Prov. 13:12) R4137:6
Take up thy bed -- Probably a very light mattress or comforter, after
the custom of that time. There was no real labor connected with this
injunction. R3502:2
His object in instructing the man to carry his bed was twofold: (1) the
act of itself would be a witness to the miracle; not only directly, but
(2) indirectly it would attract the attention of the doctors and scribes
of the Law, because they had formulated certain restrictions respecting
the Sabbath which were not Mosaic requirements. R3502:2
And walk -- One of 36 miracles, separately described, besides many
others not individually reported, but in groups. Yet this was not our
Lord's chief work, but incidental to his preaching. R4137:2, 3728:2, 3501:2
John 5:9
The sabbath -- So that the difference between his teaching and good
works, and the teaching and no works of the Pharisees, would be more
manifest. R3502:4
The Lord performed so many miracles on the Sabbath, not to signify any
disrespect to the day, nor to provoke the Pharisees; rather, to point out
the great seventh-day Sabbath, the Millennial day. R2434:1
John 5:13
Wist not -- He was too dazed and astounded to think of inquiring the
name of his benefactor, or to offer him his thanks. R4137:6, 3502:4
Evidence that he was not a believer. HG404:1; SM570:T
Conveyed himself away -- Our Lord, not wishing to refuse the great
multitude of sick ones there gathered, quietly withdrew, so that by the
time the miracle was known the healer was not to be found. R3502:4
John 5:14
Afterward -- He did not first discuss the man's sins and inquire
respecting his repentance and his turning over of a new leaf. He did not
give him the blessing of healing on condition that he would become a
servant of God. R4138:1
In the temple -- Corroborating the view that his healing was not
accidental, merely because Jesus passed by, or an arbitrary election; but
that this man, in his affliction, had been led to a repentance of sin, and
as a consequence was specially favored of God. R4137:6, 3501:4
Sin no more -- Without chiding for the past, Jesus counseled him for the
future. R4138:1
Prayer should be for the forgiveness of sins when sickness is a
punishment, rather than for release from the punishment. If the sickness
was a judgment, we should expect that when the sin has been confessed and
fully repented of, the Lord would remove the chastisement, either
partially or wholly. R2008:4
Those who now experience healing, doubtless will require healing for other
ailments, and to some extent their freedom from sicknesses will depend
upon their purity of life. R759:6
Healings were not performed upon those who were converts to the Lord; on
the contrary they were performed on those who were pronounced sinners.
HG403:6; SM569:2
Lest a worse thing -- Amongst the Jews serious sickness implied serious
sins. R4980:3
The penalty for original sin has been a severe one, yet for this original
sin God has provided a great atonement. But when thus liberated, a fresh
responsibility is upon us. As the apostle declares, if we sin willfully
after we have received a knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more a
sacrifice for sins. (Heb. 10:26) R3502:5
If, after being released and justified, we sin willfully and deliberately,
we may expect nothing further in the way of divine mercy and forgiveness,
the penalty is death without hope of recovery. R3502:6
John 5:16
Sought to slay him -- A parallel to the opposition manifested by

present-day Christians, sectarians of the strictest sort; not that they
would literally kill, but many would assassinate character, if thereby
they could defend the falsities of their systems. R2434:1
John 5:17
My Father worketh -- God rested from his work of creation, although he

did not abandon the work in his purpose--that of raising a Seed which
would eventually deliver the race. R2434:5
Hitherto -- Before I came. R51:6*
I work -- Now, I work. R1685:2, 975:4, 27:2*
Now that I have come. R51:6*
Christ worketh now, as the Father worked hitherto. E395
The coming of Jesus in the flesh we regard as the dividing line between
the two works referred to here by the Savior. R51:6*
The closing work of the Jewish age was the turning point between the work
of the Father and of the Son. R27:2* God has been resting from creative
work and will continue to do so until the close of the Millennium--leaving
all the restitution work for Christ to do. R1685:2, 2434:5, 1609:6, 975:4
Separating the works of the Father and the Son, the life-privileges which
come to the world come directly from the Son--he bought them with his own
precious blood. R1006:5
The work of the Son will not be complete until all evil has been
thoroughly subjugated, which will be at the close of the Millennial age.
R2434:6
Not that he does a work distinct from the Father--"The Son can do nothing
of himself" (verse 19); "As I hear I judge" (verse 30); "I am not alone."
(John 8:16) R52:1*
John 5:18
God was his Father -- The Jews would have been afraid to call themselves
sons of God, or to call him their Father. If they had spoken of themselves
as sons of God, they would have thought that they were doing something
reprehensible. R5219:2
The Jews never claimed to be sons of God, neither are they referred to in
the Scriptures as such. No greater dignity than that of being servants of
the Most High God could possibly have been dreamed of up to the time when
our Lord himself announced the privilege of adoption to the new nature.
R3476:2
Making himself equal -- Their anger was because, in claiming to be the
Son of God, he was claiming an honor and place so much higher than
themselves--implying a closeness of relationship and nature to Jehovah
which they considered blasphemous. R2434:2
John 5:19
Nothing of himself -- A contradiction of the common thought of

trinitarians, that the Son is the Father. R2434:3, 2408:4
Would any say of the Father, "the Father can do nothing of himself?" R803:1
What he seeth -- These words were used in connection with the healing of
the sick. They do not, of course, mean that the Lord had seen the Father
healing the sick, but that he had seen the Father's will, the Father's
plan. R5065:3
The Son likewise -- This is a oneness that results from having the same
mind or spirit; it is the same oneness that should exist between a heart
union of man and wife; they twain are one. R369:5
"There is no other God but one. To us there is but one God, the Father, of
whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord, Jesus Christ, by whom
are all things, and we by him." (1 Cor. 8:4,6) E54
John 5:20
The Father loveth -- Greek, filio, has affection for. R2434:3

Filio, a love that is more or less respect, not for everybody; it
represents more of an individual or family love. R3949:5
All things -- Including "judgment" (v. 22) and "raising up the dead"
(verses 21, 29). R51:6*
John 5:21
And quickeneth -- A word not in general use today, but signifying to

make alive. NS336:2
To quicken is to make alive, and the double statement gives emphasis to
the idea of life by resurrection. R27:2*
The Son quickeneth -- Not referring to the awakening of Lazarus, the son
of the widow of Nain or the daughter of Jairus; rather, our Lord was
looking down to the future--to the resurrection of the Church in glory and
the subsequent resurrection of the world during the Millennial age. R2434:3
By giving to justice the price of their liberty from divine condemnation,
he secured the legal right to cancel the sentence of condemnation to death
against them, and hence the right to resurrect or restore to life. HG292:5
Whom he will -- He wills to restore all who shall prove worthy; and to
prove who are worthy of everlasting life is the object of the Millennial
reign. HG292:5
The Son has been given the privilege of giving immortality to whomsoever
he will--to the worthy ones constituting his elect Bride. HG752:2
John 5:22
The Father judgeth -- Greek, krino. This word is full of the thought of
trial, or testing, or criticism; but it does not imply finality of
decision. R2430:2
The judgment, criticism, or inspection represented by the word krino does
not wait for the harvest. It is practically the only kind of judgment that
has been in operation. The krino, trial or probationary judgment, as well
as the krisis, or decision, is committed of the Father to the Son. R2430:4
The Church is the Body of Christ, and as such is collectively at the
judgment seat of the Heavenly Father. Our Lord Jesus is not presented to
us as our Judge, but rather as our Advocate before the Judge. R2426:2
In 2 Thess. 2:8-12 the statements respecting the Father's part and the
Son's part are so intertwined as to prove that they are united in the one
work of judgment--of the Father, by the Son. R2426:5
He does not judge distinct from the Son, for we read, "God hath a
appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world by that man whom he
hath ordained" (Acts 17:31); and again of "God the Judge of all." (Heb.
12:13) R52:1*
No man -- It is because the Father has already judged all in Adam and
condemned all to death, that he could not treat with sinners except
through a Redeemer, who became a Mediator. R387:4
Up to the present time God has not been judging the world; that is,
rewarding and punishing each act of mankind. HG234:3
Because we are in a fallen condition we are incapable of a trial at God's
bar of absolute justice; by our best deeds none could be justified before
him. E408
God, whose "work is perfect" (Deut. 32:4), could not recreate or awaken
men in an imperfect condition. God does not judge imperfect man in any
manner. He has provided Christ as the Judge of fallen men--to judge them
in their imperfection and to bring them up to perfection. R1853:6
So far as the Father is concerned, the Adamic sin is forgiven and all
claims under it are set over to the Redeemer, the Purchaser, our Lord
Jesus. R1058:3
Implying that there is no judgment of any kind in progress by the Father
directly during this Gospel age. R2430:3
But hath committed -- Or, transferred. R1058:3
He first proved him, and found him worthy of confidence, and then, having
made known his plans to him, he committed to him their execution. R1550:2
Our Lord uttered these words before he had finished the work which the
Father had given him to do at Calvary, but he spoke from the standpoint of
that completed work. F397
It was from the moment of our Lord's resurrection that the Father
committed all judgment unto the Son. It was then he declared, "All power
[authority] in heaven and in earth is given unto me." (Matt. 28:18) F397
All judgment -- Greek, krisis. This word includes the thought of trial
culminating in a decision that is final, irrevocable. R2430:2
As the legitimate father of the race, the race is fully in the hands of
the Lord Jesus, to deal with absolutely and to judge of their worthiness
or unworthiness of eternal life. This he already does for his Bride now.
As the Father is the head of Christ, so Christ is the head of the Church,
as the husband he is the head of the wife and the family. E457
In that judgment of the world he has promised to associate with himself
the Bride class, whose judgment day is now in progress. R2434:4
The saints will be associated with the Lord in the work of judging those
in process of purgation during the Millennium. That will be the only
really Holy Inquisition (i.e., court of judicial inquiry on matters moral
and spiritual). R1469:4
Christ and the Church will regulate the world's affairs, and see to it
that every evil deed is punished and every good endeavor rewarded. The
result will be: "When thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of
the world will learn righteousness." (Isa. 26:9) HG234:4
That this judgment of the world did not begin at our Lord's first advent,
we have his own testimony: "I came not to judge the world," and again, "My
Word shall judge you in the last day." (John 12:47,48). R2434:4
Though our Lord's mission at the first advent was not to judge, but to
redeem the world, the testimony is unmistakable that, at his second advent
he will judge the world, and his saints will be associate judges. R1383:6,
409:4
He will take mankind as he finds them and deal with each individual
according to his own particular condition, adapting himself and the laws
of his Kingdom to all the various peculiarities, blemishes and weaknesses
as he finds them. F114
Unto the Son -- Though the Father had tried and sentenced Adam, and had
now provided for the redemption in Christ, all future trial of the
imperfect fallen race shall be conducted by the Son, who bought all with
his own precious blood. (1 Pet. 1:19) R1287:1, 2269:5, 1068:2, 587:1
God purposed a redemption for Adam and his race through Christ. Thus the
race of Adam was bought by Jesus, divine law was vindicated, and the race,
by God's will, was in new hands for trial. R1983:6, 1853:6, 387:4
While the legal right to judge was secured through Christ's death, the
process of its accomplishment will require considerable time. "God hath
appointed a day [the thousand-year reign of Christ], in the which he will
judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained." (Acts
17:31) R1247:6
God will have no direct dealings with the world until the close of the
Millennial Reign of Christ; the Son will deal with mankind throughout the
Judgment Day of a thousand years. The great Mediator will be the
"go-between," representing God to the world, and the world to God. CR486:1
When sin and Adamic death are wiped out, the dominion will be delivered up
to God, even the Father, by the accountability of men being made
thereafter directly to Jehovah, instead of to Jesus as during the
Millennial age. R470:5; A142
But the Son does not exercise that krisis authority until the harvest, the
end of this age. He then exercises krisis power in respect to the Church
and the world. R2430:3
That the judgment will be fair and impartial is vouchsafed by the
character of the Judge, by his perfect knowledge, by his unwavering
justice and goodness, by his divine power, and by his great love. R722:2
Hence the Father, aside from his Son, did not judge the Ancient Worthies.
R5073:3
There will never be another chance provided for any who have enjoyed a
full chance in the present life and have despised it. But no man is
competent to decide which of mankind have had, and which have not had, a
full opportunity. Only the appointed Judge is authorized or capable of
deciding this question. R2048:4
The new creatures are not competent to be judges one of another for two
reasons: (1) few of them fully comprehend and appreciate the divine Law of
Love governing all; and (2) few can read even their own hearts unerringly.
F403
John 5:23
Honour the Son -- As the Father's agent and representative. HG297:2;

R5922:6; OV351:4; Q770:2
The exalted Christ is to be honored, yea, worshipped, because the Father
has highly exalted him. SM498:2
In proportion as we value the work of the Atonement, our reconciliation to
God, in the same proportion will we esteem him whom the Heavenly Father
set has forth to be the propitiation for our sins. E83
In the work of creation God set forth the Son in great prominence and
glory, saying, "Without him was not anything made that was made." (John
1:3) In the work of redemption and restitution, God has set him forth so
prominently that his name is the theme on every tongue, almost to the
eclipse of the Father's own glory. R3161:2
The honor to the Son is as the Father's appointed representative and agent
in the great work. R2435:4
In acknowledging Christ and the Church and in bowing to them (Rom. 14:11;
Phil. 2:9), the world will be bowing to Jehovah; for the Logos, Jesus, the
Redeemer, forever will be the representative of the Father and his power.
OV351:4; Q770:2
Nothing should be done except at his command. All power in heaven and
earth was committed unto him. (Matt. 28:18) R2888:3 Although all things
are of the Father in the sense that the original power and life proceeded
from him, nevertheless all things are by the Son, in the sense that he,
from the very beginning, has been the Father's active agent in every
feature of the divine plan. R2199:5
Although Jehovah is the head of Christ, we see him delighting to honor his
Son, for he is the Father's representative and the express image of his
person. R1550:1
The Church is referred to as the daughter of the Father, and as the Bride,
the Lamb's wife, and she is exhorted to reverence the King's Son as her
Lord--"So shall the King greatly desire thy beauty; for he is thy Lord
[Adon--not Jehovah] and worship thou him." (Psa. 45:11) E48
Although our Lord occupied the chief position next to the Father before he
came into the world to be our Redeemer, yet he now occupies a still higher
position. NS257:6
God had honored him by delivering to him the scroll of wisdom, and the
power and authority to execute all of its provisions. (Rev. 5:5) R2156:2
"Worthy is the Lamb that was slain, to receive power, and riches, and
wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing" (Rev. 4:11); a
proclamation eventually joined in by "every creature." E37
The exaltation of our Lord Jesus Christ to glory, honor, power and
dominion does not imply that the Heavenly Father abdicates the throne of
heaven in his favor. E38
No suggestion that the Father is the Son and that the Son is his own
Father, but quite to the contrary--that there are two persons, both Gods,
both Creators, but the one the superior, the other his honored
Because he showed his obedience and his confidence, in that he humbled
himself to become a man and tasted death for every man, therefore God
highly exalted him. (Phil. 2:9) R1278:4
Although the Scriptures nowhere place the only-begotten and well-beloved
Son of God on equality with Jehovah himself, either while here on earth,
or as the Logos, yet now, in his highly exalted condition, he is partaker
of the divine nature. R2408:3, 1231:1
We are not to honor ourselves, but to honor him whom the Father has
honored, our Lord and our Head. R4115:3
As they honour -- We notice a oneness of honor. In honor, each seems to
prefer the other. R3161:2
If it be remembered that it is "God in Christ reconciling the world to
himself" (2 Cor. 5:19), it will be seen that we honor both the Father and
the Son. R27:5*
They should not honor the Son instead of the Father, however. "My glory
will I not give to another." (Isa. 42:8) SM498:2
Not honor the Son as the Father, but as the Father's direct
representative, heir of all things. OV351:4
Neither did the apostles contradict the Lord and say that he was the
Father, nor that he was equal with the Father. NS195:3
Although our Lord taught us to worship the Father and to pray, "Our
Father, which art in heaven," nevertheless the general sentiment of
Scripture seems to imply there will be nothing wrong in our addressing a
petition to our Lord Jesus direct. R3911:6; Q734:6, 540:10
Prayers can be to the Father or the Son or both, for the Father, as well
as the Son, loves us (John 16:27); and we have promise of communion with
both (John 14:23); and both are to be worshipped and loved equally. R1580:6
Nowhere are we authorized to pray to the dead--either saints or sinners.
On the contrary the Scriptures set forth our Heavenly Father as the
supreme object of worship, though they do intimate the propriety of
praying to our Lord Jesus also. NS732:6
The Father -- God is first; our Lord Jesus is first to us, as the Head
of the Church, because God has given him the preeminence. (Col. 1:18) In
recognizing Jesus' full authority and headship of the Church, we are
honoring him who appointed him, and thus we keep God first. R2985:3
John 5:24
He that heareth -- The judgment of the Church is here referred to. Those
who now hear, believe and obey, have everlasting life promised, as a
result of thus favorably passing the present judgment or trial. R2434:6
My word -- The Bible is God's Word because it reveals the Lord Jesus
Christ and the great plan of salvation. Our Lord Jesus is the spirit of
the Word. (2 Cor. 3:17) R21:2*
Hath everlasting life -- Equally true to say we have eternal life, or we
are reckoned to so have. What the Lord promises, we will have. Illustrated
by a person with a check saying he has the money, when what he really has
is a promise to pay the money. Q263:1
From the standpoint of God's reckoning, the legal standpoint. They are now
"saved by hope." From the standpoint of full accomplishment, Paul writes:
"If ye live after the flesh, ye shall die; but if ye through the Spirit do
mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live." (Rom. 8:24,13) R5931:2,
4298:5
They hold a sure title to this glorious liberty, which all the sons of God
will possess when fully restored to the divine likeness. R1738:3
Those who are begotten of the Spirit are said to have begun their
resurrection now, figuratively. (Rom. 6:4) NS336:1
Not come into -- While these sons are not to be spared from the
polishing processes necessary to make them acceptable as sons, they are to
be spared from the great time of tribulation and to escape the thousand
years of judgment or trial coming upon the world. R2405:4
The Church will be receiving her reward when the world's individual crisis
or judgment is in process. But the Church is not exempt from individual
judgment; her crises takes place during the Gospel age. R669:5
They are counted already as having passed from death unto life, merely
waiting for the time when, their course completed, they will be like their
Lord and share his glory. (Rom. 6:5) Q137:1
Their present judgment will exempt them from any future judgment. R527:1*,
518:6*, 433:5*
"There is therefore now no condemnation [consequently no future judgment]
to them that are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in
Christ Jesus made me free from the law of sin and death." (Rom. 8:1,2 Rev.
Ver.) R518:6*
Condemnation -- Greek, krisis, judgment, is here translated
condemnation. F399; R669:5
This word signifies judgment, and is so rendered in the Revised Version.
Compare 1 Cor. 11:32. R2435:1
Those who accept Christ here have their trial, or judgment, in this life;
that is, the sentence of life is pronounced and they shall not have
another trial. HG40:6
The great mass of mankind, outside the Household of Faith, are still under
the original sentence--eternal death. NS6:3
The whole world, during the thousand years of Messiah's reign, will be in
condemnation, and have the opportunity of coming out of the condemnation,
rising up out of it and getting back into harmony with God. Q137:1
Judgment is not executed until after the trial, but the trial is the
judgment, and with the saint ends at death. HG41:1
God will judge--grant trial to--the world in the next age, by Christ.
R2398:5
Is passed -- Already, in advance of the world. F399; Q137:1
The present time, the present life, is to each of the consecrated ones his
day of judgment, his day of trial, his day of testing--to determine
whether or not he shall be accounted worthy of life. F399
From death unto life -- Justified by faith and obedience as members of
his body. F399
Figuratively; but the real passing into life will be at the close of this
age, at the Second Coming of Christ, in "the First Resurrection." NS582:6
The change is only a legal one. Actually, according to the flesh, they are
still imperfect. But, by divine arrangement, their new minds were accepted
of God in Christ and their flesh ignored as dead; they were begotten of
God and became sons of God. As sons, they were free from all previous
condemnation that came upon them as members of Adam's race. CR131:3;
R5896:3, 527:3*
Therefore reckoned free--free from sin and its condemnation, death, the
righteousness of Christ being imputed to them by faith. R1738:3, 1726:1,
970:6
So that they might die with Jesus. PT389:1
Noah's Ark represented Christ. Whoever comes into Christ comes into safety
and salvation, out of danger and destruction. SM341:3
John 5:25
The hour is coming -- As the ransom of man has been paid, why do the
living continue to die, and the dead remain dead? Because the resurrection
hour has not come yet. In God's plan there is a time for everything.
R690:3*
The general judgment of mankind during the Millennial age is here referred
to. R2435:1
And now is -- Omitted in the Sinaitic MS. R1854:3, 1231:6, 1077:3 HG293:3
The harvest of the Jewish age was the dawn of the Gospel age. R27:3*
The dead shall hear -- First will come the awakening; second, the voice
of the Son of man--the message declaring the terms on which the life
enjoyed may be continued everlastingly. R3433:1
Those who have gone into the prison precincts of the tomb shall be brought
forth, so that they may hear the voice of the Son of Man, and, by obeying,
live. F701
But the coming forth is merely the awakening in the case of those whose
judgment, or trial, shall not have been previously passed successfully.
F708
Bearing in mind that the whole world is dead from the divine standpoint,
we see that the apostles and the early Church were called out of the dead
world and granted the opportunity of hearing the message of life from the
Son of God. F708
The whole world, from the divine standpoint, is spoken of as dead, because
it is already nine-tenths dead and under sentence of death to the full.
R2435:1, 1231:6, 1077:4
As the world is now counted dead from God's standpoint, so those in the
Millennial age who come forth from the tomb will still be dead in the
sense that they will not have perfection of life, and not be thoroughly
awake intellectually. NS670:5
Be brought to a clear conception of truth. R1854:2, 1231:6, 1077:4
Some of us have already heard the voice of the Son, while we were children
of wrath, and from a reckoned standpoint, we have begun to live, through
faith in Christ. HG139:1
Son of God -- The Bride of Christ will have to do with the life-giving,
but merely as the associates of the great Life-giver. The Ransomer, Jesus,
alone is the one who can dispense his own life-rights. R5967:5; Q126:4
Jesus is to be our Deliverer. He is the one who calls all the saints from
the sleep of death. Although the Father is the Great Deliverer, who raised
up our Lord Jesus, and who "will raise us up also," yet it will be by
Jesus. All things are of the Father and by the Son. Q124:4
How strange that we were so long deluded, that we heard the voice of man
instead of the voice of the Son of Man. SM311:3
They that hear -- The dead of mankind shall be awakened to such a
condition as will permit them to hear, comprehend, understand, though they
will still be dead from the divine standpoint. R2630:2
Hear the voice of God speaking peace through Jesus Christ--informing them
that they are still sinners, justly condemned to death, but God in mercy
has provided redemption through Jesus. Therefore they are awakened from
the tomb and caused to hear the message of God's grace. NS670:5
Obey his voice at that time. (Acts 3:22) R4793:2, 2435:1, 1854:2
Receive, or grasp it. R1231:6
Heed. R1077:4; HG293:2
The only condition upon which any may have everlasting life is obedient
faith. To be saved through Christ, each human being must hear in the sense
of understanding or appreciating perfectly God's plan, and his
responsibility to it. R698:4
Some may refuse to hear, refuse to obey. R3433:2, 433:5*
To ascertain which will "hear [obey]," all must stand before the great
white throne of justice, then established, and be judged according to the
things written in the "books [of the Bible]" even as the Church is now
being judged. R1903:3, 333:1
Some now hear the voice of the Son of Man and live, through justification
of faith, while others will not hear the voice of the Son of Man and come
to life and perfection until the Millennium, and then actually and not
reckonedly. R4398:2
Shall live -- Everlastingly. R1903:3
In due time. R1854:2, 1231:6, 1077:4
After hearing, comprehending, if they respond to the hearing, if they
obey, they shall eventually attain to perfection of life--gradually.
R2630:2, 1854:2, 1231:6; NS670:5
As with the Gospel Church, so with the world in the Millennium, the
hearing of the voice of the Son of God is a gradual matter, line upon line
and precept upon precept, the obedient coming to a clearer and clearer
appreciation. F709
In proportion as they heed they come into closer and closer vital
relationship with the Life-giver and share his rewards--in this and in the
coming ages. F708
These will progress step by step to the attainment of all that was lost,
and beyond this to the attainment of those things which God had in
reservation for Father Adam, which he might have obtained had he remained
obedient. R3433:2
A new trial is to be granted to Adam and all his race, an individual
trial, under the enlightenment and uplifting influence of the great
Messianic kingdom. R5443:6
They shall be rescued, not only from the tomb, but also from all the
imperfections, mental, moral and physical, which have come upon the world
through sin--be raised up to perfection of life. R2435:1
According to the general conception this should read, "they that live
shall hear," but this would not have been true. As a matter of fact, no
one will be judged in an unconscious state of death. R1854:1
While such as will not obey will be destroyed from among the people. (Acts
3:22,23) HG306:6
John 5:26
Life in himself -- Immortality. HG752:2; SM496:5

That is, his existence is not a derived one, nor a sustained one--not
dependent in any manner upon another or upon conditions, such as food,
light, air, etc. R1879:1, 715:1*, 279:2; A211; E396, 389
Independent of any support outside itself, subject to no conditions,
incorruptible, exhaustless, unlimited, eternal. R233:6
So hath he given -- Promised. R2435:4
As an immortal being cannot die, it seems clear that Jesus did not have
immortality when he died. It was given unto him after he died, at his
Indicating Jesus' knowledge of the fact that both he and the Church would
share in the divine nature and inherency of life. R5066:4
To the Son -- Hence he is now the express image of the Father's person.
A211
Life in himself -- Immortality. As the Father hath inherent life, so he
gave the Son to have this life; and as the Son had the promise of this
life during his earthly ministry, so he had the actuality of it in his
resurrection. The same promise is given to the Church, which is his Body.
(John 10:27) A211; R5608:3, 2435:4, 1642:4, 1052:5*, 715:1*, 279:2, 252:4;
Q502:5
The divine nature. SM67:T
The Bride is to have within her a "well of water [life] springing up"
(John 4:14), while the rest of mankind may come to the fountain to drink.
(Rev. 7:17) R252:4
Nowhere in the Scriptures is it stated that angels are immortal.
Immortality is ascribed only to the divine nature--originally to Jehovah
only, subsequently to our Lord, and finally, by promise, to the Church.
A186; R5731:3
A nature incapable of death. R673:6
"In him was life" (John 1:4), the new life, life as a new creature,
partaker of the divine nature. R4155:1
As the result of Adam's disobedience was humiliation, sorrow and death, so
the result of Christ's obedience was exaltation, joy, and the crown of
life, immortality. R4018:3*
To apply 1 Tim. 6:15,16 ("The blessed and only potentate, the King of
kings and Lord of lords, who only hath immortality") to the Father would
be to deny that our Lord possesses immortality. The Father is always
excepted as being inexpressibly above all comparison. (1 Cor. 15:27) E78
John 5:27
Given him authority -- Given commandment, authorization. R2435:4

Now that the life and power are given to Christ, do not be surprised if he
exercises his power in the giving of life. R27:4*
Execute judgment -- The divine will. R2435:4
R1329:2*
John 5:28
The hour is coming -- Not far distant. D640

Chronologically we are already in the great Seventh Day, or Thousand-year
Sabbath. OV349:1
All -- Good and bad, just and unjust. R1592:2
Including those who have gone down into the prison-house of death, the
tomb. NS462:3, 664:2; OV215:2
Including those who lived before Jesus came, as much as those who had not
yet been born. NS384:3
Why should a ransom be given for all if it was not intended of God that
all should benefit by it, or at least have an opportunity of benefiting by
it? HG421:3
All were included in unbelief and blindness that God might have mercy upon
all and recover every one of them from that blindness, and bring every one
to full, clear knowledge which will render every man without excuse and
fully responsible. R4781:3
The divine plan is no respecter of persons. Every member of the race,
condemned through Adam's disobedience, and redeemed by the death of Jesus,
shall have a full opportunity of coming to a knowledge of the fact; and
using that knowledge, shall ultimately attain human perfection and
everlasting life. HG685:5
In 1 Cor. 15, St. Paul explains how this can be: "As all in Adam die, even
so shall all in Christ be made alive." R5612:1; HG646:3
This will include not only the Church of the first-born, but all the
remainder of mankind, all of whom, because redeemed, shall come forth unto
"judgment-trial." SM436:2; R5060:2; CR50:3
The precious blood will never lose its power till all whom it
purchased--all the ransomed of the Lord--shall have heard the voice of
their Redeemer. R858:5
It is estimated that 20 billion have died; the tomb is well filled with
almost enough to reasonably populate the earth. CR21:1; NS209:5
Resurrection, secured for all by our Lord's death, will be offered to all;
but it will be forced upon none. R1853:5; CR37:4
Nothing in the Scriptures implies that all men will eventually attain to
perfect life. On the contrary there is a provision for second death for
those who will refuse the divine favors. But the Scriptures do teach a
universal opportunity for life. HG385:1
Implied by the promise of the Oath-Bound Covenant, that "In thy seed shall
all the families of the earth be blessed." (Gen. 22:18) NS282:2
Therefore the thousands of Ammonites and others slaughtered in Old
Testament battles did not go immediately to the theological hell, but to
sleep in the tomb until the Redeemer shall begin his work of calling back
from the dead all that are in their graves. D640; R5635:6, 4729:3, 3998:5,
3085:3, 1618:1; NS60:6
Therefore such wicked men as Nero will also be called forth from the
grave. Q503:7; NS286:5
Robert Ingersoll and other modern unbelievers are thus assured a full
opportunity to profit by this "resurrection of judgments." R3559:4
In the graves -- Greek, hades, the prison, the tomb. The grave is really
a symbol of hope; for we would not speak of it as a prison-house were it
not for our hopes of resurrection. R894:1; NS282:3, 307:3
Wherever the teachings of the Bible have gone, wherever the resurrection
hope has penetrated, there the grave and cemetery are to be found, rather
than the funeral pyre and incinerating furnace. NS282:3
Preserved by the power of God in the great prison-house of death, ready to
hear the command of the great King and to come forth. NS635:4
Therefore not yet ascended to heaven. (John 3:13) R3487:1
All are in their graves, and not alive. All must come forth from their
graves, not from heaven, or purgatory, or hell. HG228:5, 194:1; PD61/72;
SM311:2, 100:1, 34:1; OV166:3
Resurrection power not only will take hold of the people who will not at
that time have fallen asleep in death, but also of those who have gone
down into the tomb. R2714:4
Hear his voice -- The voice of the Son of God. R5107:3
At his second advent. R5132:3
Some of us (verse 25) have already heard his voice; but here, speaking of
the world, there will be an opportunity for all who have never heard the
Son of Man to hear it then, and those who hear in the proper sense of
obeying will continue to progress to the attainment of life, in its full
sense. HG139:1
The resurrection of the world will not be done by the Father directly, but
will be committed to the Lord Jesus and will require the whole thousand
years for its completion. R5167:2
Calvary changed the future of the Adamic race, so that they may now be
said to "sleep in Jesus" (1 Thess. 4:14). The world therefore is not to be
considered as extinct, eternally dead, but as asleep, waiting to hear his
voice and come forth. R5107:3, 2618:1; HG293:5
In this sense, we speak of the dead as asleep. R5166:5, 3174:4; PD61/72;
Q763:2
Calling them to awake and come to a full knowledge of God and to a full
opportunity of everlasting life. E346; R1881:2; HG332:4
The Master's assurance is that by his death he has become Lord of all and
has the keys of death and hades. He has the right to open hades and to
call forth all who have gone down into it. R4645:3; OV215:2
"Thou shalt call and I will answer thee" and awake out of the sleep of
Adamic death. (Job 14:15) E346; R5402:5, 2109:5, 1881:2, 1506:5; HG332:4;
NS117:5
As he did to Lazarus, "Come forth," or as he did to Jairus' daughter,
"Talitha Cumi"--"Come, my child." R4588:6; HG139:1; SM100:1
"The tongue of the dumb shall sing." (Isa. 35:6) R1773:6
John 5:29
And shall come forth -- Come forth from the tomb, from the blindness of
the Adversary, from the dominion of sin and death. NS535:4
Awaken from the sleep of Adamic death, which would have been an eternal
sleep except for Christ's sacrifice. R2051:3
It is needful that we recognize a difference between mere awakening from
the sleep of death and full resurrection. The awakening will be similar to
that of Lazarus, but it will be only the first step necessary in that
"resurrection" by judgment. R1853:4; SM100:1
The coming forth from the tomb will be merely the beginning of the work of
regeneration. OV381:7; NS284:3
Not merely will all mankind come forth from the grave, but they will come
forth for the purpose of being resurrected out of present sin and death
conditions to the glorious perfection of perfect human beings which Adam
lost by disobedience. R4298:5, 4552:6
This awakening from death is what the Apostle had in mind when he said
that God is the "Savior of all men" (1 Tim. 4:10.) but this does not
necessarily mean everlasting life. Adam was perfect, yet he fell into
death; and his race, when fully recovered from the penalty, will be placed
on trial as was he. R5372:3, 4793:6
There will be two general classes of the dead to come forth: those who
have already passed their trial, and those who have not yet had their
trial. R4552:6, 3795:4, 1509:5; SM34:1
Not all at once, but gradually. R5531:1, 4795:5
"Every man in his own order" (1 Cor. 15:23) the Little Flock, the Great
Company, the Ancient Worthies, and the world of mankind. SM226:2; R4552:6,
4431:3
The Church first. R5612:5
It will be the "sheep" (Matt. 25:31-46) that will be especially interested
in praying for and preparing for those who are in the grave. In sympathy
with God and Christ, they will be co-laborers in accomplishing the work
for which Christ died. Any not so interested will be lacking the Lord's
spirit, like the goat-class. R5531:6
Not that all in heaven shall come down and all that are in hell come up.
R3074:6 CR278:3
As the world returns from the tomb, our thought is that they will come
back in answer to prayer, as did Lazarus. SM226:2
Come forth to have testified to them that Christ died for them, because by
that time the seed of Abraham will be completed and the blessing of the
Lord shall come upon the whole earth. HG118:1
Mankind has no option but to come forth from the tomb in due time, because
the ransom has been provided in their behalf. PT388:2*
That have done good -- Those who have had their trial and have passed it
successfully. R4552:6, 3795:4, 2617:6, 1854:5, 1478:6, 722:5; Q830:2,
220:T Who have secured divine approval as worthy of eternal life. OV333:2
The trial of the Church, now in progress, is not a trial of men, to see
whether they are worthy of human life and perfection eternally, but it is
a trial of new creatures. R409:1
The righteous, faithful Christians. HG514:2
The justified and approved of God through Christ. R1853:3; Q218:T; NS316:4
Those who, during the present time, have heard the Gospel, and who have
and use an opportunity to do good. R5108:6
This will include both the Little Flock and the Great Company, perhaps
also the Ancient Worthies. R5105:3; Q309:3
Only the overcoming classes--the Church, the Ancient Worthies, and the
Great Company. These alone can be said to have done well in the Lord's
estimation--passed divine approval. F709; Q219:1
There will be different planes of perfection--human perfection, the
perfection that will be like that of the angels, and lastly the perfection
that will come to those who shall be like Christ, that of the divine
nature. Q309:3
Not done perfectly, up to the divine standard in thought, word and deed,
because there is "none righteous, no, not one." (Rom. 3:10) The nearest
approach to righteousness which is possible to any is purity of
heart--righteousness of intention. F709; NS283:4, 316:4, 535:1
We shall not in this life be perfect as Jesus was; but Jesus had a perfect
will, and we can also have a perfect will. To cover our defect, we have
our Advocate, in whom God has arranged that we may be accepted. R5108:6
Since there is none good, the only sense in which one could "do good"
would be by coming into accord with God by obedience. R4989:3
What the Apostle calls the just and the unjust (Acts 24:25), our Lord here
calls the good and the evil. NS283:3, 316:4
There is a general division line between the just and the unjust, those
who please God and those who please him not, the First Resurrection class
and the latter resurrection class. NS535:1
Dividing the human family into two classes, he declares that there is a
resurrection for both. It is for you and for me to determine in which of
these resurrections we prefer to have our portion. NS534:5
The resurrection of life -- Full perfection. OV333:2; R5132:4; SM35:1
The First Resurrection. F665; R3026:6, 2630:4; Q818:6; NS119:1
Greek, anastasis, occurs 43 time in the New Testament. It signifies to
stand again, or to raise up again; it is never used concerning the raising
of a corpse, nor the mere revivifying of the machinery of life. It means
the raising up again out of death into the full perfection of life from
which Adam fell. F703
Instead of emphasizing the word anastasis by adding the article, the
special resurrection is pointed out by calling it a resurrection of life,
because those who share it will be perfected in life at once. R1512:1;
SM34:1
The heavenly glory and condition, for which they have been prepared by the
trials, the disciplines, the lessons, the chiseling, the polishings, of
the present life. NS689:5
Their trial being ended, their full reward will be granted them in the
moment of their resurrection. HG384:5; NS535:3, 586:3, 689:5
"Changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye." (1 Cor. 15:52) Q503:7
This resurrection of the just began with our Lord and will be completed in
the resurrection of the Church which is his body. R1854:4
It will be unnecessary for them to wait for life until the end of the
world's judgment. R1854:5
They that have done good will enter immediately upon their reward of full
resurrection--human perfection. R1592:2
The faithful of past ages to perfect human life, the overcomers of the
Gospel age to perfect life as divine beings. R2613:3, 722:5
The resurrection of the dead, so prominent in the Bible, is one of its
unique features, one of its internal evidences that it is not of human
origin. NS281:2
That have done evil -- The remainder of the world who have not been
acceptable to God; not only heathen, but including all who, having heard
something respecting Jesus, have not responded to the privileges afforded
them--have not consecrated themselves fully and completely. F710; R5132:4;
NS283:5, 316:6
Includes many "highly esteemed amongst men" (Luke 16:15), many noble,
wise, rich, great and learned. F710; NS284:3
Those not having come up to the divine standard of worthiness for the
resurrection of life. NS284:3
Those of the spirit begotten ones, who willfully walk after the flesh and
not after the Spirit, having had their trial in the present life, will be
accounted worthy of the second death. NS689:5
That have not secured the divine approval as being of eternal life. OV333:2
All who have not been children of God. HG514:2
Unapproved, but redeemed. HG192:1
The ignorant and the undeveloped. NS664:2
That resurrection will be for all the "unjust" (unjustified by faith and
obedience); it will be for all the "evil"--all who have not been approved
of God in Christ as "good"--all who have not escaped "the condemnation
that is on the world." R3066:4, 4552:6, 2618:1, 1853:3; F665
None have been perfect; not even in their minds have they come up to a
standard that God can approve. They are unsatisfactory, which means unfit.
R5108:6
All who in this life repent of sin will form character which will be a
benefit to them in the age to come; their progress will be more rapid and
easy; while with others it will be more slow, tedious and difficult.
R2613:3, 722:5
While blinded ones will not be held entirely responsible for their
blindness, since they have been blinded by the god of this world, they are
nevertheless to some extent responsible and will be handicapped in the
future in proportion to their degree of present willfulness in sin. R3902:5
Those who take a thousand years to make good will not get as high a reward
as those who, by self-sacrifice, now prove their love for the truth and
die for righteousness sake. R5109:1
Unto -- "Unto," or, that they might have a resurrection "by" judgment.
HG232:3, 228:6; NS284:2
It does not say that all of the unjust ones will be raised up. This will
not be the case. Only such as conform themselves to the laws of the
kingdom will be raised up. R2630:4
The Revised Version labors with a false thought in speaking of a
resurrection of life and a resurrection of judgment. The proper
translation would be "a life resurrection" and "a judgment resurrection."
NS315:6
When all may have a trial, a judgment, under the favorable and righteous
conditions which his Kingdom will inaugurate. R2402:4
The resurrection -- The mere awakening of the sleeping dead is not a
resurrection. HG232:3, 228:6; NS335:6, 353:4
Greek, anastasis, an uplifting out of sin and death. R3388:6, 2630:4;
F703; SM312:T
Anastasis is without the Greek article and hence shows no emphasis,
indicates no special peculiarity. R1612:1
The whole work of the Millennial Kingdom will be a resurrection work.
R4298:5
This raising up, or restitution, will begin speedily after the Kingdom has
been established. NS335:6
It signifies to raise up again, and implies that a thing was once up and
got down, and is to be brought up again to the place where it originally
was, if not higher. NS284:5
Come forth, not to be tortured, but to be made acquainted with the fact
that the Creator is both just and loving, powerful and wise. NS384:3
Adam was 930 years in dying. Similarly man's resurrection will be gradual,
requiring the entire Millennial age. NS335:6
The gradual resurrection will be to their advantage in that it will permit
the development of character inch by inch and step by step. NS335:6, 535:5
The wages of sin being death (Rom. 6:23), it was Jesus' death, not his
three-and-a-half years' suffering, that was the ransom, making possible
the resurrection from the grave. (Matt. 20:28) R392:6
Awakened in practically the condition in which they died, but surrounded
by the new conditions of the Millennial Kingdom--Satan and every evil
influence "bound," restrained, and truth, righteousness and every good
influence surrounding them. HG384:6; OV382:T; NS520:5, 586:4
Adam will be awakened in the condition in which he died, but he will be
granted the opportunity of standing up again, of resurrection, of full
recovery from his fall into sin and imperfection. This is the meaning of
the word "resurrection"--standing up again. HG229:1
Full resurrection, full raising up to the life lost in Adam will not be
attained by any of the world until the close of the Millennial age.
R1853:5; NS353:4
We cannot suppose that any will be awakened until the knowledge of the
Lord shall be well established among the living of the nations. NS284:4
The salvation or recovery of the race, or so many as will accept the grace
of God in Christ when brought to a knowledge of the same, by a
judgment-trial and restitution, called resurrection. R3106:6
Resurrrection in its full, complete, Scriptural sense signifies a complete
raising up, out of sin and out of death, to perfection of being,
perfection of life. R4793:6, 4298:5; Q819:T
Of damnation -- Rendered damnation only here and in Heb. 9:27. HG41:3
The word damnation, in the Greek, signifies a crisis, a turning-point, a
decision. R4989:2
Greek, krisis, resurrection of trial, resurrection of testing, a gradual
resurrection. The awakening will be a preparatory work, not the full
resurrection, which will require the entire thousand years. R4989:5,
3066:4, 1853:4, 1592:2, 903:2*; F708; Q218:T, 818:4; NS335:6, 353:4,
535:5; OV333:2
The Greek word krisis is translated "judgment" in 39 instances, in only
two others is it rendered "damnation. The word signifies simply judgment
or trial, including the result or sentence, to enter life or death, at its
close. R1374:3, 1371:2; HG41:3
Four times properly translated in the context by the English word
judgment, as it should have been here. NS315:3, 284:1
Our English language absorbs words and phrases from all languages, and
thus it has absorbed krises from the Greek. We frequently use it,
especially in connection with fevers. NS284:2
Crisis, decision. They will come forth to demonstrate fully whether they
will come into harmony with God and prove worthy of life or not. Q504:T;
SM35:1
A "resurrection of judgment," mistranslated in our Common Version
"resurrection of damnation." R4793:5, 4791:6, 2705:6, 1853:3, 803:3; A147;
PD61/72; Q742:2; SM312:T; NS315:3, 534:6; OV361:3
Those who have not heard the Gospel and who therefore have not had an
opportunity of doing good. R5108:6, 2624:3; Q830:2
Not a judgment, or trial, for past sins; but another trial for life. F711;
NS285:2
The rendering of our Common Version, "resurrection of damnation," is a
serious error which has greatly assisted in beclouding the minds of many
respecting the true import of this passage. F708; NS315:4
The translators of our common English version supposed that there was no
hope except in the present life, and consequently could think of no object
God would have in calling the unjustified from their graves, except to
damn (condemn) them publicly. R1853:3; OV361:4; Q504:T
Not come forth to be damned or condemned. They were "condemned already" as
children of Adam because of his sin. It was from that sin and its
condemnation that Christ died to set them free. They will come forth free
from that condemnation in a judicial sense. HG434:2
The word judgment sometimes signifies merely the execution of a verdict,
or decision reached, but it means in a fuller sense the process of trial,
including also the decision or result of trial. R408:3
Meantime the unwilling, the disobedient, will be cut off in the Second
Death, the death punishment everlasting will be visited upon them, they
will have no hope of a future resuscitation. NS353:5
If they resist, they will die the second death; if they respond, they will
be raised up to perfection. Q504:3; NS670:6, 664:2, 635:5, 535:5
"By judgments"--chastisements, corrections, with reward for every good
endeavor. SM312:T, 34:1; NS782:6
With no outward show, the Kingdom of God will be in the midst of mankind,
a spiritual power, restraining and controlling, punishing sin and
rewarding righteousness, and thus affecting a resurrection, a raising up
by judgments, stripes, disciplines and rewards. NS513:2
Perhaps seeing in one the intention of robbery, allowing him to go to the
length of making every preparation, and then just before the committal of
an overt act, smiting his hands with paralysis. NS285:6
The future would teach all, not only what righteousness is, but what the
joys of righteousness are. Each would begin at once to have a reward for
every good endeavor, and thus experience the resurrection. NS286:2
Present wrongdoing, in proportion as it is committed against light, makes
its mark upon the characters of men; but this judgment, recorded in the
characters of men, is not the judgment here referred to. NS285:2
Illustrated by the trial of a child by his parent after chastisement to
see if he really will do better. F711
Signifying that the Millennial age arrangements will differ from those of
the present and past ages, in that while now judgments (rewards and
punishments) are deferred, whereas then they will follow immediately every
act and word of obedience or disobedience. R3066:4, 3063:4
The object of the ransom was not to justify sin, nor to bring back the
sinner to continue a life of sin, but to afford each an individual trial
for life. R408:3
Now the Lord does not judge among men. Earthly prosperity is not proof of
divine favor, and earthly adversity is not a proof of divine disfavor. (2
Tim. 3:12; Psa. 73:7) NS285:4
"Know ye not that the saints shall judge the world?" (1 Cor. 6:2) We see,
then, that the judgment of the world is separate from the judgment of the
saints. NS285:2
Obedience of will or intent shall be the first requirement; and as this is
obeyed, restitution will commence. As gradually imperfection and weakness
shall give place to strength and perfection, correspondingly less
allowance will be made for transgressions by the Mediator-Judge. R1261:3
The trial of the world, when Satan and evil are bound (Rev. 20:2), will be
less severe, and the prize for which they will be running will be less
glorious, than that for which the Church runs. R409:1
They will be made more and more alive, and less and less dead, as the
thousand years progress, and none will get the resurrection life until
they are raised to the condition of perfection--perfect life in the image
of God, which was lost by Adam. R4989:6, 4794:1, 3410:2, 3026:3, 2833:2,
2714:5
Condemnation is no more the equivalent of judgment than damnation is. The
process of judgment will result either in justification or in
condemnation, according to the merits or demerits of each case. R1330:1*
Be judged again--they were tried and condemned once already through Adam,
and a second chance for life comes to all through Christ Jesus--an
individual chance. R408:3
They will come forth from the grave to have the truth testified to them,
for their acceptance or rejection. Their final judgment will be based upon
their course under trial after the truth has been testified to them.
R1478:6, 1359:2
It will be a restitution by judgment, or a resurrection by or according to
judgment: a judgment according to their obedience or disobedience. R1853:5
Of judgment (Revised Version); coming forth to shame and contempt, which
will continue until he shall, under the judgment of that time, learn the
lesson and form a better character; or, refusing to do so, be cut off in
the second death. R5396:5
A resurrection effected by "judgments," disciplines, chastisements, which
will develop in them character. R5017:6, 2613:4, 722:5
Illustrated by the case of Julian Renfro, 21, a Higher Critic, who
challenged God to strike him deaf and dumb, or blind. A moment later he
collapsed without the power of speech, afterward expressing in writing his
faith in the Lord. R3388:6
To be disciplined, to receive stripes in proportion to the willfulness in
which they have cooperated in their own downfall into mental, moral and
physical degradation, but to be helped by the stripes, to be corrected in
righteousness, if they will. R3795:5
In that searching judgment there will be a reckoning, even for every
pernicious word (Matt. 12:36). Then the masses of mankind who will to obey
are to be gradually raised up to perfection of being, as well as of
knowledge. R1654:1; F665
While judgment will pass against one who fails to make progress and will
cut short his further opportunity, the same judgment, by the same Judge,
will operate favorably to all who seek righteousness and make progress in
harmony with the laws of the Kingdom. R4794:1
In the new trial or judgment, the same principle as in Adam's case will
hold true again--the redeemed are appointed to life if they will obey the
great Law-giver; they are not "appointed" to die, and none will die except
as willful sinners in the second death. R2823:1
The "times of regeneration" (Matt. 19:27,28) are the same which St. Peter
styles the "times of restitution" (Acts 3:21), the times or years of the
Millennium, the times of "resurrection by judgment." R4556:3
"God hath appointed a day [1000 years--2 Pet. 3:8] in the which he will
judge [grant trial to] the world in righteousness [equity] by that man
whom he hath [afore] ordained [the Christ]." (Acts 17:31) R3028:6, 1505:2;
NS285:1
John 5:30
Of mine own self -- Our Lord Jesus in all matters acts as the
representative of the Father, Jehovah, in the work of salvation. E35
Do nothing -- When he was risen from the dead, he no longer said, "I can
of mine own self do nothing"; but on the contrary, he then declared, "All
power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." (Matt. 28:18) R745:4
On so important a question as the equality of the Father and the Son, we
must not rely upon any man's testimony except that of the inspired writers
of the Scriptures. R5747:6
As I hear -- Of my Father. R5378:3
I judge -- I speak. R2318:6
Testimony is to be taken. This indicates that the destiny of those who
come up to judgment (verse 29, Revised Version) is not fixed beforehand.
HG336:6
My judgment is just -- That the judgment will be fair and impartial, and
with due consideration for the circumstances and the opportunities of each
individual, is also assured--by the character of the Judge, the Christ.
R2612:6, 1383:6
Not mine own will -- The Father and the Son are one in mind and purpose
because Jesus gave up his own will and took the Father's, just as we must
give up our will, mind and spirit and receive the Father's if we would be
heirs of God and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ our Lord. R296:3
Though tempted in all points like as we, his brethren, he ignored his own
will and all suggestions from others contrary to God's plan, and obeyed
God implicitly. Therein lay the secret of his success. R1125:5; HG292:6
Self-denial, self-renouncing and fasting in the highest and fullest sense
of the word is enjoined, with fasting from both good and bad fleshly
desires in the interest of the new creature and for effective service.
NS154:2
He submitted himself to all the Father's will and thus proved his loyalty.
R5421:6
The will of the Father -- Therefore he and the Father were one. (John
10:30) SM493:1
Jesus' claim was that he was "a Son," an obedient son. R369:5
There was no disloyalty on the part of Jesus--he never said he was the
Father. CR290:2
Hath sent me -- Claiming no higher honor than to be the Father's agent
and messenger. HG297:2
Instead of being the Father masquerading as a man, Jesus was the Logos,
the Word, or Message of God, whom the Father had sanctified and sent into
the world to be the world's Redeemer. R5378:6
John 5:31
I bear witness -- In the next several verses Jesus refers to a few

witnesses: himself, verse 31; "another," verse 32; John, verse 33; his
works, verse 36; the Father, verse 37; the Scriptures, verse 39. R2011:6*
John 5:32
There is another -- This means that there are two persons, for in no
other way could one exalt and honor another. R4165:2
John 5:35
A burning -- Some lights are cold, austere, unsympathetic; but the kind
approved of the Master was the burning kind--warm, glowing, sympathetic,
helpful, intensive. R4967:3; CR125:3
Shining light -- The Apostle distinguishes between the messenger of the
light and the light itself. Here our Lord speaks of John the Baptist as a
burning and shining lamp (mistranslated light). A totally different Greek
word [phos] is used when our Lord is spoken of being the Light. (John 1:4)
R2409:2
For a season -- When he had announced Jesus as the Messiah his work soon
began to wane, as he had testified it should do, saying of Jesus, "He must
increase, but I must decrease." (John 3:30) B260; R968:5
John 5:36
The Father hath given me -- He ascribed always the honor to the Father.
He was merely the Finger of God. R5920:2
Recognizing our Lord Jesus as a god, a "mighty God" and that the
Scriptures clearly tell of his greatness, they also tell of his full
harmony with the Heavenly Father, Jehovah, and his full submission to the
Heavenly Father's will in all particulars. R4051:5, 2726:1
The same works -- Teaching that since he came, his work and the Father's
are one and not distinct one from the other. R52:4*
Bear witness of me -- Bearing out the thought that the miracles that our
Lord did were only intended to establish his identity, and not with a view
of establishing a precedent for the healing of the world or the Church.
R3495:5
John 5:37
Which hath sent me -- Proving that the Father and Son are not one in
person. If they are two persons, which was first? The names themselves
explain: Father signifies sire, life-giver; Son signifies offspring.
R1904:5
Nor seen his shape -- Seeing with the natural eye and hearing with the
natural ear are not all there is of seeing and hearing. "No man hath seen
God at any time" (John 1:18), yet all of God's children have seen him,
known him and held communion with him. B122
John 5:39
Search the scriptures -- Our Lord's words express the mind, the will,
the Spirit of God. Hence we have continually set before us, as necessary
to our victory, the study of the Word of Truth. E204
He who has not a knowledge of the divine revelation, the divine plan,
cannot have a Scriptural hope, cannot have the legitimate results of such
a hope, namely, the anchorage of the soul, sure and steadfast. (Heb. 6:19)
NS505:4
Only by coming into a condition of heart-harmony and teachableness, and then
by a full consecration receiving the holy Spirit, can we hope to understand
the divine message and obtain the eternal life it promises. R4334:4
Under divine providence apostles, prophets and teachers are necessary,
indispensable. But no words of man are to be taken as instead of the Word
of God. Man's presentations are to find acceptance only in proportion as
they are found to be in harmony with the Scriptures. R4334:4
The Jews came to Christ with their doubts; his reply was not for them to
pray, but to search the Scriptures. Prayer and intellectual activity
cannot be separated. R653:4*
God has so much more to tell us than we have to tell him, let him speak
much, long and often through his Word. R597:6*, 317:1*
More of a reproach than a command or invitation, "You search the
Scriptures because you think by them to obtain everlasting life, and these
very Scriptures you are searching also testify of me." R2011:6*, 692:1*
In them ye think -- Strictly scrupulous in the slightest ritual
performances, in the observance of these forms they thought they had
eternal life; but now he who was to bring life and immortality to light
had come. R358:4*
John 5:40
Ye will not come -- No one can expect to be taught of God while in that
self-sufficient and dishonest condition of mind which boasts of knowledge
and faith which it lacks. R2965:5
Although obedience to the laws of Christ's Kingdom will be enforced, no
man's free moral agency will be interfered with: these words will be true
of those who then know of and fail to gain life, as it is true of some
now. R2051:4
John 5:42
The love of God -- We are to distinguish between natural love and the
love of God. All mankind has some share of natural love--self-love, love
for family, friends. But the love of God is different--unmerited,
sacrificing love. R2648:2
John 5:43
In my Father's name -- Our Lord Jesus in all matters acts as the

Ye receive me not -- Not because of a lack of prayer, but because they
sought honor of another, and not the honor which cometh from God. (verse
44) R653:4*
In his own name -- Boastingly. B357
Him ye will receive -- Papacy's unparalleled success, as a counterfeit
Christ, deceiving the whole world, has amply fulfilled this prediction.
B357
John 5:44
How can ye -- Upon no class does this trial come with greater force than
upon ministers. With them it means truly the loss of all
things--reputation, friends, often those of the family circle, and the
present means of earning a living, and necessitates the turning to
something new and untried. R956:5*
Believe -- Continue in proper discipleship. R4208:1
Honour one of another -- Great power has been, and to some extent still
is, in the hands of ecclesiastics; but, in the name of Christ and his
gospel, it has been, and still is, selfishly used and abused. D61
The Protestant clergy receives much of the same homage and reverence
against which the reformers of the sixteenth century protested. It is a
general weakness of fallen human nature to take all the respect, honor and
authority others are willing to accord. R1135:6
Everything is done to impress upon the people the idea of the superior
learning, dignity, and sanctity of the clergy. R956:1*
There are many consecrated ones, desirous of the prize, begotten of the
spirit, who are partially overcome by the allurements of the world. They
try to walk a middle road--to keep the favor of God and the favor of the
world, forgetting that "the friendship of the world is enmity with God."
(Jas. 4:4) A214
A temptation comes to the Lord's people to guide their course not entirely
by the Word of the Lord, but with a deference to the sentiments of others.
This is the fear of man that brings a snare. (Prov. 29:35) R4208:1; D61
Hindering some of even God's true servants from faithfulness, while
apparently many of the under-shepherds never had any interest in the
Lord's flock accept to secure the golden fleece. HG715:4
The "wise and prudent" prefer honor one of another rather than that which
cometh from God only. Instead of coming out more and more boldly for truth
on unpopular subjects, they put their light under a bushel until it is
gone out. R2639:6
He that values reputation more than truth, how can he believe? R24:6*
John 5:45
Even Moses -- God dealt with only one man in connection with the making of
that Law Covenant, Moses, who stood in the position of father to the whole
nation, the nation being regarded and treated as children. R1725:3
In whom ye trust -- As in Jesus' day believers in Moses rejected Christ,
so now we find those claiming to trust in Christ, who reject Moses, in
spite of Jesus' having endorsed him. R691:6*
John 5:46
Had ye believed Moses -- Equivalent to saying that in the deeper sense

Moses, in telling of the Seed, covers the Gospel in its fullness, though
deeply hidden. This dept of Moses' writings is the cause of the Jews'
rejection of Christ, as well as of the modern Christian rejection of
Moses. R691:6*
The manner of the unbelief of the Jews was that of failing to see the
spirit of their sacred writings. To them the truth was veiled, because of
the veil upon their hearts. R692:4*
Disbelievers in Moses are of necessity disbelievers in Christ. To reject
Moses after Christ has endorsed him is not characteristic of a believer in
Christ. R691:3*
All who believed Moses and were taught of God were able to receive him
when he was present in the flesh. R40:1*
He wrote of me -- There is, it may be safely said, more gospel in
Genesis than in Matthew. This fullness of the gospel was given in Genesis
in the sense that the undeveloped seed contains all that can be produced
from it. R692:1*, 67:3*
The method by which Moses wrote of Christ was not direct statement, but by
figure, type and allegory. Even in his most direct words he did not say
Christ, though that was what he meant. R692:3*
In the Law, in types. R4352:3; B177
Moses wrote of the ransom (1) in every sin offering enjoining the life of
the beast; (2) when he told of how God clothed the guilty pair, expelled
naked from Eden, with coats of skins; (3) in the narrative of the offering
of Isaac; (4) by showing the ratifying of the typical Covenant with blood
representative of his own; (4) by showing the necessity that the firstborn
be under the blood of the Passover lamb; (5) in the types of the Day of
Atonement; and (6) in the typical Jubilee year, announcing the times of
restitution of all things. R692:6
Moses taught restitution in type, in the Jubilee arrangement, in which
land and all possessions lost were fully restored. R413:1
Moses, in some particulars, in some of his transactions, was a type of our
Lord. R4058:1
Proving that Moses did not die 500 years before the Pentateuch was
written, or that writing was unknown in his day. Q633:3
John 5:47
His writings -- The Lord thus authenticating the reliability of the

Mosaic record, as opposed to the concepts of the Higher Critics. R3724:4*
John 6
John 6:1
After these things -- A year after the previous chapter. John's Gospel
evidently was not so much to give a history of our Lord's life as to
mention incidents omitted in the other Gospels. R3502:3, 2435:1
These incidents are accredited to the early part of the third year of our
Lord's ministry. John the Baptist had been in the prison at Machaerus for
about a year and had just been beheaded by King Herod. R4138:3
The beheading of John, concern among the followers of Jesus over his and
their safety, the sending forth of his disciples and the seventy--all
called attention to Christ and his Messiahship. R4139:1, 3780:1
Somewhat previous to the martyrdom of John the Baptist, the Lord had sent
his disciples to preach in the villages of Galilee. The news of John's
death and the possible effect upon their work of the royal wrath seems to
have brought them all together again to take counsel. R1754:2
Over the sea -- From other accounts we learn that our Lord's crossing of
the Sea of Galilee at this time was for needed rest. R3502:3
Another reason was that his disciples, whom he had sent forth two by two
through the various cities had now returned to him, and doubtless needed
rest and a measure of peace and quiet to report and get needed
instruction. R3502:6
The third reason was that at this time the news had just reached Galilee
that Herod had caused the beheading of John the Baptist and his army had
been vanquished by that of Aretas, unquestionably stirring the people and
to some extent unfitting them for the hearing of the Lord's message.
R3502:6
Still another reason was to give the occasion for this miracle. R3503:1
Possibly he thought that his ministry was not yet concluded, and that
Herod, having shown such boldness against John, might seek to interfere
with his labors and the completion of his ministry. R3332:3
Possibly he feared that a rebellious spirit might be aroused amongst the
people, and that his teachings would seem to foster this. R3332:3
Possibly that he might contemplate the character of the work he was to do.
R3332:3
Probably in part for private meditation and conference with his disciples,
who undoubtedly would be greatly agitated by the news of John's death, and
needed his calming influence and assurance that Herod could have no power
over them, except such as might be permitted by the Father. R2435:2
Several of the apostles being fishermen, whose boats were at their own
disposal, and the Sea of Galilee being small, the undertaking was not
extraordinary. R3503:1
Landing near Bethsaida, the home of Philip, one of the disciples, at the
north end of the lake. R4139:2
Just outside the boundary of Herod's dominion. R2435:3, 1754:3
John 6:2
A great multitude -- Not only of those who had heard Jesus, but other
multitudes on their way to Jerusalem to attend the Feast of the Passover.
R2643:2
Multitudes, coming along the road to Jerusalem, heard of the presence of
the Great Teacher in the vicinity and tarried. R4139:2, 2435:3
Evidence of his growing popularity at this time. R3332:3
In some respects picturing the world during the Millennial age. R3781:4
Followed him -- The boat was in full view of the shore for probably all
of the distance, they thus saw the boat and judged its objective point.
R2643:2
They had a heart-hunger, although they knew not what it was really; they
longed for better conditions than surrounded them, and this great Teacher
seemed to have words such as none other had for them. R3332:3
Being so deeply interested and noting the direction in which the boat was
steered, they traveled afoot, a considerable distance, to the same place.
R4139:2, 3780:1, 3503:1
John 6:3
Sat with his disciples -- They probably spent a day or two in rest and
comparative privacy, communing respecting the interests of the work.
R3503:1, 2643:2
Just so the Lord would have all his disciples come to him for counsel,
rest and refreshment. "He never asks of us such busy labor as finds no
time for resting at his feet." Nor would he have us rest too long when
other weary hearts are waiting for our ministries of love and consolation.
R1754:3
John 6:4
The passover -- According to Jewish custom, hundreds of thousands were

en route to the feast, business was practically suspended by a
considerable portion of the population. R4139:1, 3503:1
John 6:5
When Jesus -- The miracle of the feeding of the five thousand is the
only miracle that is particularly described in all four of the Gospels.
R3502:3
Saw a great company -- Jesus knew that with the vast majority the object
in coming was merely curiosity, not faith or desire for instruction;
notwithstanding, as always, his generous heart was full of sympathy.
R2643:3
From the other Gospels we learn that the day was spent in healing the sick
of the multitude, and preaching to them the things pertaining to the
kingdom of God, and that it was toward evening that they were miraculously
fed. R2435:3
He saith -- Quite probably he and the apostles taught the multitude for
some time before the miracle of the feeding was performed. The Gospel
narratives are very brief and pass over small and irrelevant details.
R3503:2
In season and out of season, so far as his convenience was concerned, he
must work the works of God, lay down his life inch by inch, hour by hour.
R3332:3
Unto Philip -- Whose home town was nearest and who therefore would be
supposed to be best acquainted with the vicinity. R4139:3, 3503:2, 3332:6,
2643:3, 2435:5
Philip seems to have had a rather business turn of mind, an excellent
disposition to have among the disciples of the Lord: nevertheless it is
inclined to think of earthly means rather than to exercise faith in the
Lord. R3503:2, 4139:3
The business head is very useful if restrained by love and faith; love,
that it not allow business interests to take sole charge of spiritual
affairs; faith, that these not be permitted to ignore faith in the Lord
and the power of his might. R3503:3
Whence shall we buy -- Note our Lord's wise method of instruction,
stimulating thought. R4139:3
The dialog between Jesus and the disciples reconstructed from the four
Gospel narratives. R2643:5
That these may eat -- The people seem to have been so engrossed with the
good tidings that they entirely forgot their own necessities. R2435:5
The Lord sees the dark night of trouble approaching, but before sending
the people away he instructs all who are his disciples to supply them with
something to eat; with spiritual food, truths pertaining to the Kingdom.
R2436:1
John 6:6
To prove him -- To stimulate the thought of Philip and the other

disciples, and thus to prove or test them and develop their faith in him.
R2643:3
John 6:7
Two hundred pennyworth -- His suggestion was that this ($32 worth) would
be a considerable sum for them to spend, and that less would do no good.
R4139:3, 3503:2, 2643:3
About $200 worth, according to our present day reckoning. R3332:6
John 6:8
Andrew -- Whose mind seems to have been less practical than that of
Philip. R3503:3
All the good and helpful suggestions for the interest of the Church do not
always come from one quarter. Often, the Lord uses stumbling lips and
illogical reasonings as the basis of blessings to themselves and others.
R3503:3
Saith unto him -- Apparently thinking of our Lord's power, but scarcely
able to realize so great a miracle. R2643:3
Our Lord had use not only for the broader mind of Philip, but also for the
simple and less logical mind of Andrew, and used the latter's suggestion
by calling for the little supply. R3503:3
John 6:9
There is a lad here -- Jesus did not tell the apostles to get wagons and
go to town for bread and meat, but to use what they had. So we should use
all our talents; use what we have, and we shall receive the blessing
therefrom. R5419:4
Five barley loaves -- Philip was too practical, too much of a business
man, to have even thought of mentioning such a morsel of food in
connection with the supply of so large a multitude. R3503:3
The loaves of that country and time were about the size of a small flat
pie and very similar in shape. R4139:4
The poorest and cheapest sort of bread. R2643:6
Two small fishes -- The kind of fish described by the Greek word used
implied very small fish, like herring. R4139:4
But what are they -- He had hardly offered the remark about the lad and
the fishes, when he felt ashamed of it. R3503:3
We may feel that the multitude is large and that the means at our disposal
for reaching them with the bread of life are limited. It is sufficient for
us to know that some are hungry for truth, and that if we will, the Lord
will bless us in ministering it to them. R3333:5
It requires faith to go forth and to hope to accomplish the great harvest
work under present limited conditions, but the Lord, the Chief Reaper,
will make it sufficient so that all who are really hungry may be fed.
R3333:6
John 6:10
Make the men sit -- No objection is offered to this command which might
make them appear foolish, to prepare a feast when apparently no feast
could be spread. They were beginning to learn the power of him who could
fill their nets with fish and they obeyed; the Lord did the rest. R3780:5,
4139:4
The men sat down -- In ranks or rows, in groups of fifties and hundreds,
upon the grassy slopes. R4139:4, 3503:5, 3333:1
The people were accustomed to a certain method of arranging themselves in
groups of fifties and hundreds for general feasts. R2643:6
The confidence of the people in Jesus and his apostles is clearly
manifested in the fact that at that late hour they were willing to be
directed. R4139:4
About five thousand -- The Gospels give two distinctly different
miracles of feeding the multitude. In one case it was 5000, in the other
4000; in one a lad provided five cakes and two fish, in the others the
disciples provided seven loaves and a few fish; in one the fragments
filled twelve baskets, in the other, seven. R4617:2
John 6:11
Took the loaves -- The lad who had the loaves and fishes and who put
them at the disposal of the Lord, we may be sure was greatly blessed,
although we hear nothing further of him than is here mentioned. R3334:1
The boy was willing to put his all at our Lord's disposal, instead of
attempting to sell it to the hungry at famine prices. R3334:1
Probably they were purchased from the boy. R4139:4
Jesus could have turned the stones into bread and thereby fed the
multitude. He could have ignored the little supply on hand as
insignificant, but that was not his method. So his followers should learn
not to despise the little things, but use them so far as possible. R3503:4
Miracles are only to be expected after we have done all in our power with
the means at hand. R3503:4
As the Lord used the barley cakes and fishes as the nucleus for this
miracle, so in nature he uses the seed wheat as the basis for the miracle
of the crop gathered in harvest. R3503:5
Notice that the feast for which our Lord returned thanks was not a
sumptuous one, served in elegant decorated ware, but plain barley bread
and dried fish. R3781:1, 2643:6
To thankful hearts the plainest of food will be more appreciated, more
happifying, more satisfying than to others. R2644:1
Both in quantity and quality many people of our day are overfed. Plainness
and simplicity of food would not only be more healthful, but would leave
much more time for spiritual refreshment. R3781:1
Given thanks -- If the Master himself thus acknowledged that every good
and perfect gift cometh down from the Father of Lights, how much more
should we. R4139:4, 3780:6
Gratitude to God is appropriate however simple our bill of fare. R3781:1
Our blessing of the bread does not increase its quantity, its bulk, but it
does increase its value, its efficiency. The peace of mind from proper
acknowledgment prepares our nerves as we partake of food. R4139:4, 3780:6,
2644:1
It would be inappropriate, however, to intrude upon the customs of a host
family, nor is it always appropriate to openly manifest thankfulness in a
restaurant. We might well refrain if our conduct would be misapprehended
as Pharisaism. In such cases, however, the heart should always render
thanks. R3781:1
Proportionately the thankful Christian should be less troubled with
nervous dyspepsia than are others of the same physical and nervous
temperament. R4139:5, 2644:1
We advise the custom of the Bible House family; breaking together the
spiritual manna and feasting thereon at the same time of the partaking of
the earthly food. R4139:5
He distributed -- Apparently it grew as they were broken, much after the
manner of the widow's cruse of oil, which flowed incessantly until all the
pots had been filled. R3503:5
Quite probably the increase was while being broken in the Lord's hands,
though possibly also the increasing continued at the hands of the apostles
as they in turn distributed the food to the people. R3333:1
It is not for us to explain the miracle, but to recognize that God is the
giver of every gift, and that miracles are in operation about us every
day: the seed germinates and grows, we know not how. R4139:5, 3503:4,
3333:2
The same amount of barley that composed those five loaves, if planted,
might have brought forth a harvest sufficient for the five thousand. Two
fishes, in the ordinary course of nature, in a short time might have
brought forth a sufficient supply of fish for the five thousand. R3333:2,
3503:4
We can analyze a grain of wheat and could construct something very closely
corresponding, but we could give it no life, no germ, no power to produce.
This is a miracle, too, but so common that we overlook it. R4139:6, 3333:2
To the disciples -- Jesus dealt first with his disciples, representing
the elect. To these he gave bread, which, after the multitude was seated,
was distributed amongst them. So the Lord has called the Church to be the
elect, and breaks for them the bread of life. By and by the whole world of
mankind, in their own rank and company, will be ready for the food, and
shall have an abundance and to spare. R4141:5, 3781:4
The miracle was intended to inculcate some important lesson of faith or
practice, not so much for the public, as for his special followers, his
disciples. R3333:4
The disciples to them -- They were thus the better witnesses of the
power of the miracle, and the people were more or less made acquainted
with the apostles, who perhaps later on, after Pentecost, met many of
them, and, as the Master's representatives, bore to them the heavenly
bread. R3781:2
Without faith in the Lord they would undoubtedly have refused to take any
part in the proceedings, fearing that it would bring reproach and ridicule
upon them. R2644:2
The Lord has already made provision sufficient in quantity and variety,
and he bids each of his specially consecrated ones to have faith, and go
forth in the distributing of the food, trusting the result to him. R2436:4
As we have received of the Lord's bounty freely, so we are to distribute
freely. Those who distribute will have the privilege of gathering up for
themselves, that each may have more than he gave away. R3504:2
Let us see to it that we have generosity in respect to the spiritual as
well as the natural food. R3504:2, 3333:6
Neither our duties nor our privileges are wholly measured by our own
abilities. A proper faith in the Lord permits us to realize his omnipotent
power, and that if he be with us in the distribution of spiritual food to
the hungry, the little of means at our disposal may be so blessed as to
accomplish marvelous things. R2644:2
As our Lord could have performed the miracle of feeding the five thousand
without the instrumentality of his disciples, so now he could feed the
hungry Israelites indeed without our aid. R2644:4
Of the fishes -- We offer no objection to those who claim that they have
better health as a result of a purely vegetable diet, but do object to the
claim that it gives special sanctity or acceptableness to God. Jesus not
only ate animal food (lamb and fish at least), but miraculously created
fish for food. R3098:3
John 6:12
When they were filled -- Not merely a taste of food, but a satisfying
portion; all had plenty. R3781:3
At the very same time there were doubtless hungry ones in various parts of
the world whom he could have fed; but he came not to feed the world, or
stop their pain, but to redeem them and give evidence for belief in his
Messiahship. R3503:5
It was a lesson of the Lord's ability to care for them as his followers,
under all circumstances, under all conditions, and this lesson continues
with all of his followers since. R4139:6
Those who are truly the Lord's people have similar miracles today, because
in eating of the Word we partake of the spirit of our Lord. We must prefer
these higher miracles, and consider them a stronger basis for faith than
the poor Jews with the favors bestowed on them, great as were those
favors. R3503:6
A meal consisting of barley bread and dried fish would not be partaken of
as liberally as if condiments, sauces and sweets had been provided.
Perhaps we would all know better when we had enough if we lived more upon
the plain substantials of life, and did not too much pamper our appetites.
R3781:3
It is further worthy of notice that the Lord's miracles of feeding and
healing were performed, not upon his consecrated disciples, but upon
others. His followers, having covenanted to sacrifice, might therefore,
like him, avail themselves only of the natural means of recuperation.
R1754:6
When Christ was weary, he rested; when he was hungry, he partook of food;
and never in any case worked a miracle for his own present benefit, nor
for his disciples. R1754:6
The Lord afterward, on another occasion (Matt. 16:9,10), sought to further
impress upon the minds of his apostles the lesson of faith which this
miracle was given to establish in them specially. R1754:6
Unto his disciples -- It was those who scattered to others who had their
haversacks filled in the end and gained the supply for themselves. R3504:2
Gather up -- For their own future use. R2644:4
The first lesson was generosity, the second lesson was economy. So it
should be with us, our generosity should be equal to our disposition to
economize. R3504:1
Showing, first of all, the immensity of the miracles, and secondly, the
lesson that we are to use the means which God has put into our hands, and
not to expect unnecessary miracles. R2644:5
The disciples and the multitude would be very likely to draw the inference
that, where there was such a power to create and to multiply, there would
be no necessity for frugality. R2435:5, 2644:4; SM657:1
The same lesson might also be applied to our spiritual food. We are not to
treat truths carelessly when we have eaten thereof and found satisfaction
to our souls; but are to gather and preserve them for further and future
use. R2644:5, 2436:6
The fragments that remain -- It seems reasonable to suppose that the
small fragments left by the multitude were allowed to go to the birds and
squirrels, and that the fragments gathered by the apostles were those
broken by our Lord. R3781:4
Let us take heed to the fragments, too, that we may render up a faithful
record of our stewardship, that we may see to it that the talents
entrusted to us have not been buried in the earth. R3781:6
That nothing be lost -- None of the Lord's blessings and mercies are to
be wasted. Willful waste brings woeful want. R3504:1, 3333:3, 2435:6
The Lord's people should be careful to avoid wasting, in earthly food and
temporal matters, not because of selfishness and a desire to hold and
accumulate, but, as the Apostle explains, "that ye may have to give."
(Eph. 4:28) R2435:6
If our Lord Jesus were here, none of us would expect him to be wasteful.
Our Lord was most economical. Although there was plenty of food to feed
the multitude, he told his disciples to "gather up the fragments."
R5002:4, 4139:5, 3504:1
The lesson of economy is appropriate to us all, but in our experience the
poorest of the world and of the Lord's people often have greatest need for
this lesson. R3781:5, 3504:1, 2644:5
John 6:13
Twelve baskets -- Each of them gathered the full of his bag or satchel
or haversack, in our text called a basket. R3504:1, 2435:5
Which they were accustomed to carry in their journeys. R2644:4, 2435:5
The memory is our "basket," our haversack, and divine provision is so
bountiful that every disciple may gather his basket full. R2435:6
Those who distribute will find in the end their own vessels full. R2436:4
John 6:14
The miracle -- The only miracle particularly described in all four

Gospels. R3502:3
An operation of divine power beyond our comprehension more than are the
average affairs of life. R4139:6
That Jesus did -- A power Jesus had by reason of having received the
holy Spirit, to do anything that might be necessary in God's service, and
in the establishment of the Church, and the instruction of the people at
that time. Q495:2
This is of a truth -- While the chief object of the miracle was
doubtless to reinforce and establish the faith of the apostles, its
secondary object and actual effect upon the multitude was very similar.
R1754:6, 4139:5
That prophet -- Doubtless viewing it as an indication that if Jesus were
proclaimed a King, he could supply his soldiers with food without a
commissary department; and able also to give them the victory under all
circumstances and conditions. R3504:4
As a matter of fact, Jesus in the flesh was not the great Prophet, though
his work in the sealing of the New Covenant with his blood at Calvary was
necessary before he could be made alive in the spirit. R3069:4
This great Prophet that God has promised is not a man, not of the human
nature; but is the Lord of glory who has bought the whole world at the
cost of his own life. R3069:4
Still further, from the divine standpoint, our Lord Jesus is to be the
Head, and the faithful of his Church are to constitute the members of this
great prophet. R3069:5
John 6:15
Make him a king -- After the miracle of feeding the five thousand.
R1755:1
A repetition of the temptation in the wilderness. R1755:1
To have encouraged any such matter would be to have opposed what he
recognized to be the divine arrangement. R3332:3
He departed -- He had not the slightest intention of alluring the people
to his support and for the establishment of an earthly kingdom. R3850:4
Knowing that such was not the Father's plan. R1755:1
Our Lord's constant effort was to avoid publicity; to prevent his miracles
and teachings from inciting the people, yet he constantly brought these
testimonies or evidences of his authority and Messiahship to the notice of
the Jewish clergy. C168; R4139:6
The most famous of earth's heroes have been its warriors; Alexander,
Julius Caesar, Bonaparte; but here is a hero who refused the honors of
men, who instead of taking life, yielded his own that he might bring back
to life the untold millions whose death has been caused by the tyrants of
earth. R1063:3*
Later, on Palm Sunday, the due time having come, he deliberately planned
his triumphal procession, instead of hindering it, as here. R2745:2; C150
Himself alone -- Possibly his human nature felt the force of the
temptation to accept of present advancement and at once enter upon the
work of blessing the world, instead of pursuing the long and tedious
purpose of God. R1755:1
John 6:16
His disciples went down -- Jesus had a twofold purpose in sending them
away: first, to have private fellowship and communion with the Father in
the mountain, apart even from his beloved twelve; and secondly, to give
his disciples the opportunity to think over the miracle and talk it over
by themselves in his absence. R3333:4
He sent the disciples before, not only as a test of their obedience but to
give them a still further demonstration of divine power. R4140:1
John 6:17
And entered into a ship -- As the apostles learned the lesson of the
Lord's provision, the very fear of Herod and what he might do to Jesus or
them gave way, and they were ready, by nightfall, at the command of our
Lord, to return to Capernaum. R4140:1
The fact that our Lord's conference with the disciples had a pacifying and
strengthening effect is evidenced by their return that same night to
Galilee, Herod's territory. R2435:3
John 6:18
A great wind -- Representing the boisterous and troubled experience of

the Church throughout the Gospel age. R4140:1
John 6:19
They see Jesus -- At the end of the age, in the midst of a great storm,
the Lord appears to his people, and upon being received by them, their
outward troubles and difficulties completely vanish. R4140:1
John 6:22
The day following -- After partaking of the miraculously provided

supper, the multitude lay down. In the morning they looked for their
benefactor, evidently expecting that he would miraculously provide for
their breakfast. R4146:1
John 6:24
Seeking for Jesus -- Not from a clear apprehension of his divine

credentials, but rather from curiosity and probably an increasing
determination to push forward to the ruling position, from which they
presumed he shrank from a sense of modesty. R1755:2
John 6:25
When they -- A number of them (we cannot assume very many) conclude that
they would follow the great Teacher. R2651:1
John 6:26
Jesus answered them -- He preached no sermon when he performed the

miracle, but allowed it to have its effect; but now, instead of working
another miracle, he preached a sermon, using the miracle as his text.
R4146:2
Not because ye saw -- His reproof was not harsh, though it was quite
pointed. R4146:2
Because ye did eat -- Telling them plainly that theirs was a selfish or
mercenary interest, and not the kind that he desired to cultivate, an
interest in the truth. R2651:1
Probably more of the common people than the aristocracy became his
disciples. Now, as then, the interest of the poor, like the interest of
the rich, is mostly a selfish interest. Few see the King in his beauty,
the beauty of holiness. Few seek him as the bread of eternal life. R1818:2
Perhaps there was never a time in the world's history when humanity
manifested more desire for physical healing than today. We could wish that
there were a greater appreciation of soul sickness from sin. R4313:2
And were filled -- The trouble with the whole world is that they have
either earthly aims or no aims at all, and of the two conditions the
latter is the worse. Those with aims accomplish something, making two
blades of grass grow where one grew before, thus benefitting civilization.
The great majority, without ambition, merely eat to live and live to eat,
merely animals of a higher intelligence. R4146:2
John 6:27
Labor not -- There are two general classes of laborers: the world in
general, laboring for the things of this present life, and the followers
of the Lord Jesus, laborers also, with great difficulties, but they have
found the great Helper. CR16:2
We live in a time when there is a great hungering for knowledge, wealth,
influence, power, everything. Our day is full of philosophies to satisfy
these various hungerings of the soul. Yet these things do not satisfy even
the worldly; they still hunger and thirst. Nothing will ever satisfy them
but the living bread, the truth. R3334:4, 2436:1
The meat which perisheth -- Earthly food, earthly comforts, earthly
pleasures. R2651:1
The more people are satisfied with earthly things the less inclination
they will have for the heavenly things, and the more we are satisfied with
the heavenly things, the less appetite we will have for the earthly
things. R3334:4
The new nature flourishes at the expense of the old nature, and the new
ambitions and desires at the expense of the old. Likewise when the old
nature flourishes, it is at the expense of the new in all of life's
affairs. R3334:4
Though necessary under present conditions, his followers will remember
that the heavenly Father knoweth that they have need of these and will not
suffer them to come to serious want. R4146:3
But for -- Live for, labor for, and enjoy the things unseen as yet,
everlasting in the heavens. E196
Meat which endureth -- A spiritual nourishment, of which, if we partake,
we shall attain eternal life. R2651:1
The food that would develop in them, not earthly, but heavenly ambitions,
and lead to their satisfaction, would be food indeed and well worthy of
every exertion to obtain it. R4146:3
Sealed -- Indicated, marked as his appointed channel for blessing.
R4146:2
Marked him, granted him the evidences and proofs of sonship in the powers
conferred upon him. The seal was the holy Spirit, the holy power of God,
which acted upon our Lord Jesus, enabling him to do the miracles. R2651:2,
1755:2, Q495:2
When 30 years of age, Jesus commenced his ministry by consecration,
typified in baptism, and was sealed as accepted to the divine nature, by
the holy Spirit of promise. (Eph. 1:13) R329:4
The holy Spirit itself is the seal. E246
John 6:28
What shall we do -- This is just the point that Jesus wished to bring
them to and that he wished to answer. R4146:3
Work the works of God -- As Jews they had before their minds the thought
that God had made a covenant of works with their nation, with promises of
eternal life attached thereto--the Mosaic Law Covenant. R2651:2
Many today ask the same question, hoping to please God by their works, and
underrating the importance of faith. R1755:4
John 6:29
This is the work -- Declaring that to believe on him would be a

"work"--the only work that could possibly make them acceptable to God.
R2651:3
There is work connected with believing; not a work with our hands, but a
work with our heads and our hearts. R2651:6
Of God -- The work which God would be pleased with. R2651:6, 1755:4
The work most pleasing and acceptable to God would be their exercise of
faith in him as the one whom God had sent in fulfillment of his promise to
their fathers. R1755:4, 4146:3
That ye believe -- Not discussing the further step to the high calling
of this Gospel age, but only the first necessary step in approaching
God--justification. The thing necessary to justification is the acceptance
of Christ as the Bread of Life. R2652:1
John 6:30
What sign -- Evidence, proof of our Lord's supernatural power and

authority, proof that he was indeed the Sent of God, the Messiah. This was
the object of the miracle, not the feeding of the multitude. R3503:5,
4139:6
Instead of realizing that they had already seen the sign, signet, or seal
of God upon the Lord Jesus, not only in his spirit, but additionally in
the manifestations of divine power upon them. R2651:3
No such gratification was granted them; they had sufficient evidence upon
which to found faith had they been so disposed. R1755:4
That we may see -- What reason have we to think of you as the Messiah?
R4146:3
And believe thee -- If sign upon sign had been given, the same "evil
heart of unbelief" (Heb. 3:12) could reject ten signs as well as it could
reject one--just as Pharaoh, who was more impressed with the first sign of
Moses than by the succeeding ones. R2651:3
John 6:31
He gave them bread -- Messiah is to be greater than Moses. You furnished

five thousand one meal and had the loaves and fishes to start with, but
Moses fed our fathers for years in the wilderness without any bread as a
start. R4146:4, 2651:4, 1755:4
They were good reasoners in some respects. Intending to stick close to the
Scriptures, they would only accept a Messiah greater than Moses, able to
feed them and all every day with bread superior to that which Moses gave.
R4146:5
John 6:32
Moses gave you not -- Do not credit that to the wrong source. R4146:5,
2651:4
My Father giveth you -- My Father, who sent the manna in the wilderness,
has now sent another kind of bread--manna, not literal, but symbolical.
R4146:5
The true bread -- Pointing out that the manna given in the wilderness
was typical of the true Manna, the true bread of eternal life--himself and
the truth he proclaimed. R2651:5, 5279:4, 38:3*; PD34/45
Showing that the comparison between himself and Moses was not as to who
would give more earthly food and of a finer kind, but that he would give a
heavenly food, a spiritual food, which would secure to them a heavenly
life. R4146:2
Jesus, the salvation which he provides, and the kingdom blessings which
are coming through him and the privileges of association with him. R3781:6
As the body is nourished by food, so is the spirit nourished by Christ.
R29:2*
John 6:33
Down from heaven -- Not merely like the manna from the clouds, but from
heaven itself. R4147:1
If Jesus had no previous existence, if he had not a special birth, how
could we understand these words except as deceptive? R5767:6, 106:5*;
OV328:6
Giveth life -- This gift of God, this bread from heaven, was a greater
miracle than the feeding with manna in the wilderness. R1755:5
John 6:34
Evermore give us -- Note the similarity of expression here with that

used by the Samaritan woman to whom the Lord mentioned the gift of life
under the figure of the water of life, "Evermore give me this water."
(John 4:15) R4146:6
From remote history people from every clime have sought for health springs
and health foods that thus they might have a longer continuance of the
present life, and, if possible, an annulment of death entirely. R4146:6
It is on such longings of the soul for continued life that patent
medicines thrive. We are glad that there is such a longing for
perpetuation of life. It becomes a basis for further investigation for
This bread -- They did not yet get the thought, but rather were getting
a natural thought, that Jesus was telling them of a still higher class of
manna, the partaking of which would yield eternal life. R2651:5
John 6:35
I am the bread of life -- That bread of life is the truth, particularly

the truth related to the great Redeeming work of Jesus. He is to be the
Bread of Life to the world because he bought the world with the sacrifice
of his own life. R5087:6
As the Church now partake of the merit of Christ's sacrifice, and become
members of his Body, the one loaf, so in God's due time the bread of
heaven is to feed the multitudes of earth. R5087:6
Part of the "table of the Lord" (1 Cor. 10:21), a board richly spread with
a bountiful supply of divine truth--bread of life and meat in due season
and honey in the honeycomb, and the choicest beverages of milk and wine,
and of the pure water of life, clear as crystal. R1899:2
Cometh to me -- Not approaching as his hearers had done, coming across
the lake, but as coming with hunger and thirst for righteousness, with a
desire for the life eternal, and hence for the bread of life by which it
might be attained. R2651:5
Shall never hunger -- Whoever mentally accepts the merit of Christ's
sacrifice, and feeds upon it in his heart, feeds upon the flesh of the Son
of Man; partaking of the privileges of restitution (or in this age,
justification) provided in him. R2652:2
John 6:36
And believe not -- Their slowness to receive him, and the slowness of
the people of Israel in general, was not an evidence that he was not the
Messiah, but rather was an evidence that they were not in a condition to
receive the Messiah. R2652:2
John 6:37
The Father giveth me -- It was not God's purpose that he should attract
all the Jewish people, but merely that he should draw, by his gracious
words and by his miracles, such as the Father had "given him"; such as
were pleasing to the Father. R2652:2
Not all are called, not all are drawn. R5719:2
No one has a right to expect an answer to prayer except one who has become
a disciple of Christ through full consecration, with the exception of
minor children, one or both of whose parents are disciples of Christ.
R5833:2
Shall come to me -- Having first been drawn of God through the truth
(verse 44). NS344:4; CR131:6
In no wise -- The thought is suggested that there are many more worthy
to have the Master's attention, that we are too insignificant, too sinful,
for him to recognize. But faith holds on. R3848:3
Cast out -- Reject. R4476:2, 4147:6
Assuring us that the drawing of the Father which brings us to him will
insure for us his aid, his succor, his assistance, his acceptance. Thus,
if we fall it will be our own fault, because of failure to heed his voice.
R4148:5
But he would also have us understand that it is no easy thing to follow
him, for his was a thorny, difficult way, promising no gratification to
the natural man. R540:3
It says not one word about his holding men who come so that they cannot go
from him again, crucify him afresh and do despite to the spirit of God's
favor. R1698:5
John 6:38
I came down -- In his pre-human condition, when in the form of God, a

spirit being, Jesus was humble. He did not meditate usurpation of divine
authority to exalt himself, to seek a name higher than his own, as Satan
did. R5846:6
Not to do mine own will -- The Son was worthy to be the executor of the
great plan of Jehovah, because he had no will of his own, but renounced
his own will that he might be filled with the Father's spirit and do his
will in every particular. E60
Our consecration, like that of Jesus, should be to do the will of our
Father in heaven. The fact that you have any choice or preference as to
what you shall do is an evidence of itself that your will is not dead.
Consecration to a work of our own choosing merely, will never bring us the
great reward. R317:1
Honey was forbidden in Israel's meat offerings to teach us that whatever
is sweet to nature must be disowned, if we would walk after the example of
Christ, who pleased not himself. R84:6*
The will of him -- At our consecration we say to the Lord, All my life
is in your hands; do with it as you please. If it means joy or pain,
sacrifice or pleasure, we surrender our own will in the matter. R5086:5
The Master always had this disposition of reverence for the Father, and of
full trust and confidence in the divine wisdom, love, justice and power.
R5846:6
Holiness in the sense of complete submission to the will of God; loyalty,
a complete giving up of himself to the Father's will, whatever it might
be. CR462:5; R5421:6
God is the great master workman and Jesus is the great chief agent in
doing all the work God intended should be done. CR346:3
Because he had fully submitted his will to the Father's will and he had
made the Father's will his own, therefore they were one. (John 10:30)
SM493:1
Instead of being the Father masquerading as a man, Jesus was the Logos,
the Word, or Message of God, whom the Father had sanctified and sent into
the world to be the world's Redeemer. R5378:6, 3076:4; CR290:2
There is one God, the Father, and one Lord Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 8:6), and
nowhere in the Scriptures are these said to be equal in power and glory.
R4107:1
That sent me -- Nor does the Son claim higher honor than to be the
Father's agent and messenger. HG297:2
John 6:39
And this -- In the next two verses the Lord seems to distinguish between
the two classes of saved ones, verse 39 referring to the elect class of
this Gospel age, and verse 40 to the general blessing upon mankind to
follow this age, during the Millennium. R2652:2
Of all -- Everyone who obeys the leadings of divine providence, and
attains to the likeness of our Lord Jesus in his heart intention (not
perfection of the flesh), shall be saved in this great salvation. R2652:4
He hath given me -- The elect are frequently, as here, spoken of as
specially given to Jesus, while the whole of mankind are referred to as
his because bought with his own precious blood. R2652:3
Lose nothing -- Of such it is written, "No man is able to pluck them out
of my Father's hand." (John 10:29) R2257:4
Not so much in respect to all who shall hear the tidings, nor to all who
shall be drawn by the message of grace in Christ, nor to those who are
called or invited to run the race of self-sacrifice, but especially in
respect to the number who shall constitute the Bride of Christ, and to the
character of all who shall be in that company. R2652:4
Raise it up -- To the glorious station of glory, honor and immortality.
R2652:4
As the baptismal candidate gives himself into the hands of the
administrator to be buried, and then to be raised. HG264:5
It is of God that the dead are to be raised, but by Jesus. Our Lord is the
Father's agent in carrying out the entire plan of redemption. His power is
delegated. He and the Father are one in man's redemption, though not one
in person. R2001:2; F399
At the last day -- The seventh of the great week of thousand-year days;
the Millennial day. R2652:4, 4148:4
John 6:40
That every one -- Not the joint-heirs, but the remainder of mankind
whose ransom price our Lord Jesus has paid, and whom our Lord Jesus
himself is to draw during the Millennial age. R2652:5
Which seeth -- Their blinded eyes being opened in that Millennial day,
as the Lord promised through the prophets (Zech. 12:10); but not until the
god of this world, who now blinds the eyes of their understanding, shall
be bound for the thousand years. R2652:6
And believeth -- Even as the Father's drawing is not a compulsory
drawing, so likewise the drawing of the Son will not be compulsory. R2652:5
I will raise him up -- To perfection also, though theirs will be an
earthly, and not like the others, a heavenly perfection. R2652:6
If it be remembered that it is "God in Christ reconciling the world to
himself," (2 Cor. 5:19) it will be seen that we honor both the Father and
the Son. R27:5*
At the last day -- But not at the beginning as with the "elect" of the
"first resurrection." R2652:6
John 6:41
Bread which came down -- The Passover bread was unleavened. Leaven is a
type of sin. Had he been of the Adamic stock he would have been leavened;
but his life, unblemished, came from a higher, heavenly nature, changed to
earthly conditions. R5192:4, 2772:3, 2272:1, 1636:6, 840:6, 466:6
John 6:42
The son of Joseph -- Evidently a sarcastic intimation that he had been

born out of fornication. Even if Joseph was not his father, yet if he came
into the world by natural generation, it would have been true, for he was
conceived before Joseph had taken Mary as his wife. R443:3
Contrast this with the respectful conduct of the fallen angels, who said:
"Thou art the Son of God," (Mark 3:11) and "I know thee who thou art, the
Holy One of God." (Mark 1:24) R1680:1
John 6:44
No man -- There is a measure of selection or election as respects the

class invited to constitute "the Bride, the Lamb's wife." "No man taketh
this honor unto himself, but he that is called." (Heb. 5:4) R4883:1;
HG410:1
God has divided mankind into two general classes--one is in sympathy with
its environment and general alienation from God, not only outwardly at
enmity, but in their hearts loving sin; the other, much fewer in number,
has a love for righteousness and an opposition to iniquity, and loathes
their own weaknesses and blemishes. NS624:2; R5303:3; CR392:4
The Church is not privileged to say, "Come," to whosoever wills, but only
to "as many as the Lord our God shall call." (Acts 2:39) HG410:1; NS743:4
There is an exclusiveness about this: the time had not yet come, mentioned
in Revelation, when the water of life shall flow freely, and whosoever
will may come. (Rev. 22:17) R4148:1, 2508:1; Q824:4
The Father is not drawing all mankind now, but only believers. He is
leaving the general work of drawing the worldly for the next age, the
Messianic age. R4783:6
Jesus declared, "I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast
given me." (John 17:9) Similarly our prayers and appeals do not need to be
put forth on behalf of the world in general, but in the interest of those
who have the ear to hear and the heart to respond to the heavenly calling
of this Gospel age. NS644:1; R5939:4, 2508:1
God's missionary enterprise is much grander and more comprehensive than
Christendom's. God's plan is first to elect a "Royal Priesthood" during
this age and have that priesthood teach, rule and bless the world in the
next age. R536:2
It is only the few who are being drawn to Christ by a knowledge of the
truth now, because only a few have a knowledge of the truth. R4783:6
Can come to me -- As a disciple, a follower, a joint-heir in my kingdom;
as a member of my Bride. R4516:3
In the present time, in the narrow way. R2759:5
The Father points them to the Son through the knowledge of simple truths.
R5133:6
The Son receives these and acquaints them with the fact that he has
already made atonement for sin. Then he guides them to the further
privilege of the Gospel age, that they might become joint-sacrificers with
him. R4352:5
Those whom the Father draws to Christ he, as an elder brother, receives as
"brethren," and assists in walking in his footsteps in the narrow way of
self-sacrifice, even unto death. E146
No one will receive the holy Spirit without having been drawn to Christ,
but some may be drawn without receiving the holy Spirit. R5133:6
Except the Father -- I will not draw my Bride, the Church, but the
Father. R2759:5
The drawing is of God, and through his Word. Q282:1
But a small proportion of the nations was at that time drawn to Jesus by
the Father through the word of grace. The great majority were blinded.
R2615:2
The Gospel Church, under the Abrahamic Covenant arrangement, are drawn to
the Son by the Father, "Given unto him." The world in the next age the
Father will not draw, but the Lord Jesus will draw them to himself.
R4387:6, 4049:1
Illustrated by the Vine, "the Father's own right hand planting." (Psa.
80:15); the Father making a marriage supper for his Son (Matt. 22:2); and
John 10:29, "My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all." R4476:2
Jesus was the Father's agent, and he received them in harmony with the
Father's arrangement. R5683:6
We must be drawn first before we can come to Jesus, and then we must come
to Jesus before we can have access to the Father. (John 14:6) CR40:5
Our primary drawing and calling is of the Father up to the time when we
accept his grace in Christ and make our consecration. R4645:2
The Father is credited with doing all the drawing of the Church, although
our Lord Jesus and all the faithful of God have been his servants,
represented by Eliezer, doing the calling and drawing in the Father's
name. R1227:3; PD27/38
Thus we do not read that Isaac called his own bride and then acted as a
mediator between her and his father, nor that Isaac had anything to do
with the drawing at all. R4516:3, 4476:2; PD27/38; NS293:4
When the Church shall have been exalted as members of his Body, raised up
as sharers in the first resurrection, then he will begin his drawing work,
which will not be confined to a special class. R2759:5, 1227:1
During the Millennium Christ will "draw all men unto himself" (John 12:32)
whether they hear or forbear. All the drawing thus far done has been done
by the Heavenly Father himself; not by a mediator, nor by an advocate.
R4476:2, 4148:2, 2330:5, 1056:2; E146, 414; HG181:6; NS568:6
Draw him -- Invite him. PD27/38; Q193:3
All of God's dealings with his intelligent creatures are on this principle
of drawing, persuading and constraining, and not of compulsion. R1227:1;
HG353:6
Instead of urging everybody to become his disciples and threatening them
if they do not, the Master treats the subject in the very opposite style.
NS344:5
There is room for difference of opinion in which the Father "draws" and
"calls" the Church. Our understanding is that the Lord exercises a
favorable influence upon a certain class only--an enlightening influence
to the extent of bringing this class to a knowledge of Christ and of
forgiveness of sins through faith in Christ. NS743:5
By the truth and by his providences. R1056:2
Whenever the truth reaches the heart and understanding, its influence is
to draw, although the drawing may be resisted, not only in the present
age, but also in the age to come. (Acts 3:23) R4783:6
That which the Scriptures speak of as a drawing of God seems to be a
natural drawing along the lines of the flesh, not toward things sinful,
but toward holiness, yet along lines which belong to the natural man.
R5583:1
With some of the race, desire for God and righteousness has prevailed
above the stupefying influence of the world, the flesh and the Devil. This
class are drawn by the natural inclination of their minds Godward.
SM428:5; R5320:2, 5053:6
In these persons that endowment which God gave to Adam and pronounced
"very good" has been less impaired by the fall than it has been in others.
Such naturally desire to have God's approval and his blessings. R5133:6,
5201:2
While those not born of religious parents have had a large experience with
sin and alienation from God, others, born in a measure of justification,
have had a measure of fellowship with God, as children of believers. These
are in a favorable condition to be drawn of God. SM429:T
The Gospel message knows nothing of the ordinary mission work of rescuing
drunkards, harlots and the profane. While not refusing publicans and
harlots it did not go about seeking them. It waited for them to seek for
righteousness. SM176:3
Even when drawn, by the opening of our mental eyes to the truth, under the
unfavorable conditions of the present time, we are not compelled to
follow; we may "go away." (Verses 66 & 67) R1056:2
The Father draws to the Son for "justification by faith in his blood"
those who love righteousness and hate iniquity, and are feeling after God,
if haply they might find him. R4352:5, 4341:4
As Abraham did not send Eliezer to draw any maiden whom he met, but only
one from among those already related to him, so God does not draw sinners
(represented by the Canaanites, to whom Eliezer was not to go,) but only
such as are already justified, in harmony with God--friends of God.
R1227:2; NS293:5
Some of the Lord's followers were drawn to him of the Father before
Calvary, and others have been drawn throughout the Gospel age; as the
Apostle declares, "Even so many as the Lord our God shall call." (Acts
2:39) R4367:6
I will raise him up -- In due time he will draw all men, and it is for
this purpose that the Little Flock is exalted and associated with him,
that the knowledge of the Lord shall fill the earth and the power of
adverse influences be broken. R1055:4
Exalt him. R2759:5
At the last day -- The Millennial day, "early in the morning" of that
day. (Psa. 46:5) R2759:5, 2652:4
John 6:45
Taught of God -- The source of all true knowledge. (John 17:17; Prov.
2:6) R3550:3
God, however, does not teach all in the same time and way. For 6,000 years
he has been teaching the world the exceeding sinfulness of sin and its
bitter results. By and by he will teach them the blessedness of virtue and
holiness. R385:1*
If led of the Spirit, we will take God's point of view in every matter.
Our love will beget a desire to know that we may do his will; our
diligence and patience will leave no means unemployed to gain that
knowledge; our faith in God will lead us to place implicit confidence in
his word; our meek humility will cast out pride and love of
self-exaltation. R385:5*
God uses various instrumentalities for communicating his instructions.
They may come through his disciples, teachers, evangelists, etc., but they
must all be recognized as emanating from the Father through the Son. Q843:4
Our Lord Jesus was and still is the Great Teacher of men by the
appointment of the Heavenly Father, the great Master Teacher. Likewise our
Lord appointed special teachers under him, the apostles, and still others,
to be under shepherds of the Lord's flock. E50
As our Redeemer said to Peter, "Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona, for flesh
and blood hath not revealed this unto thee, but my Father in heaven."
(Matt. 16:17) NS516:5
We should avoid following human teachers as leaders. Their teachings
should be received only so far as they harmonize with the word of truth.
R386:4*
Whoever the human agent may be that God has made use of to bring you a
knowledge of the truth, he was simply an index finger to help you trace it
for yourself on the sacred page. R1321:1
God is teaching us through the words of the Bible. CR454:5
This precious truth is God's message to you, not man's. No such high and
glorious hope could ever have entered into the mind of mortal man, had God
not revealed it by his Spirit. R1321:2
No one can be a true child of God, "taught of God," and have reached an
advanced position in the school of Christ, without having come to an
appreciation of the spirit of liberty, which is associated with the spirit
of truth, without wishing liberty of conscience for himself, and without
wishing to grant similar liberty to others. NS64:1
It is not God's plan to build each member up in the knowledge of the truth
independent of every other member. Each member of the Body must perform
its part toward the building up of the whole Body. R386:1*
Kept from the Adversary's blinding influences, and on the contrary have
the truth revealed to them. R2268:1
Thus able to comprehend the dark and "hard sayings" (Verse 60) of Jesus,
the meaning of which cannot be made plain to the masses, though even the
world may be taught what they do not mean. NS307:3
The letter and the spirit of the divine word being the keys of the mystery
of God. R2419:3
The Master desired that the disciples should come under divine,
providential instruction, which he indicated would come through the Word
of God. R5319:6
In his own appointed way God would bring to our attention whatever feature
of divine truth would be "meat in due season" (Matt. 24:45) for the
household of faith. R4685:4, 5615:4
The fact that the Great Teacher is present superintending the "harvest"
work is, we believe, a further assurance along this line. R3856:5
That hath heard -- No man can act unless he first hear. Q282:1
Those of mankind who have no ear to hear, or who never hear the message,
are not drawn, are not called. Q282:1
If there were twenty people outside the door, and of the twenty, ten were
deaf, and I went out the door and shouted aloud, "Every one of you that
will, come in, I will give you a ten dollar bill!" How many did I call?
Only those that had the ear. Q282:1
Cometh unto me -- This is the sole object of truth. It is not given
merely to gratify curiosity, nor simply to reveal God's character, but by
that revelation to transform us into his likeness. R385:6*
All who believed Moses and were taught of God were able to receive him
when he was present in the flesh. R40:1*
John 6:46
Not that any man -- If Joseph had been his father, this would not have
been the fact, for his (supposed) "father and mother" they knew (verse
42). R443:3
John 6:47
Believeth on me -- Not merely a mental assent to some facts connected

with the divine plan of salvation, but a faith in the atonement sacrifice
and conduct in accord with its opposition to sin; a living faith which
manifests itself in obedience of heart. F160
Hath everlasting life -- Not that believers have everlasting life in the
full sense of the word, rather that consecrated believers are begotten to
newness of life, have the new life begun in them. F161
He made these statements before they had received the holy Spirit at
Pentecost. This was treating them as though they had the full initiation
into the divine family. R5683:6
John 6:48
Bread of life -- "Bread is the staff of life" amongst all mankind, the
main dependence for this present life, and hence the appropriateness of
the figure of speech which likens our Lord to the bread which imparts
sustenance to the new life. R2291:3
The truth which brings us to the privilege of manifesting faith and
obedience, and thus "laying hold on eternal life." (1 Tim. 6:19) R1878:3;
E386
John 6:49
Did eat manna -- A beautiful figure of the supply of grace in Christ. As

it needed to be gathered daily, so our gathering is to be day by day.
Feeding on the heavenly bread is to be a continuous privilege. R4012:5
Typifying spiritual food, the word of God, but in a deeper meaning,
referring not only to the written word, but to the living Word, the true
Bread of Life. R360:1*
Some of this manna was put into the golden pot and hidden in the ark,
illustrating immortality which the "Little Flock" shall enjoy, while,
instead of this, the remainder will have eternal life supplied to them.
R4012:1
As God did miraculously preserve from corruption the manna in the golden
bowl, so it will not surprise us if, in the Kingdom, God shall show to the
world the body of flesh--not permitted to corrupt, but preserved as an
everlasting testimony of infinite love and perfect obedience. B130
Typified our Lord's flesh. R5343:1
And are dead -- The type could sustain the natural life only for a brief
season, but the real bread sustains spiritual life forever. In either
case, however, the bread must be eaten. R38:3*
John 6:50
This is the bread -- Along with the lamb, the Jew partook of unleavened
bread, pure, unadulterated, figuratively separate from sin; symbolizing
the precious promises which come to us from the heavenly Father through
our Lord Jesus Christ. R2918:3
Down from heaven -- Truly said, since he who had been made in the
heavenly or spirit state had become earthly or human, being made flesh.
R1014:6
A man may eat thereof -- To grow strong in the Lord and in the power of
his might, we must feed upon him daily--we must appreciate and appropriate
the merits of his sacrifice. R5279:5
And not die -- Though they sleep (in the Adamic death), they shall not
be hurt of the eternal death (the second death) from which there shall be
no resurrection. R1755:5
As the Israelites would have perished without food, so the spiritual
Israelites would not have sufficient strength for the journey without
heavenly food. R5279:4
John 6:51
The living bread -- It typified the life-giving qualities which he

possessed and which he sacrificed on our behalf. R4011:6
If any man eat -- Feed upon. R2291:2
Including the thought of assimilation and absorption into the blood,
signifying: (1) our appreciation of his sinlessness; (2) our faith in the
fact that he offered himself a ransom for all; (3) our conviction that his
sacrifice was acceptable; and (4) our desire for eternal life and the
purity that is in Christ, and our separation from sin. R2291:5; PD67/79
Meaning the appropriating to his own use by the eater, of all the rights,
liberties, and life which the perfect sinless "man Christ Jesus"
possessed--no more, and no less. R1015:3
The trouble with the world is that they are starving to death, and have
been since the Garden of Eden. R4247:3*
What he gave up when he died is ours--it is free to every child of Adam.
But it will give life only to such as eat, by faith appropriate, those
rights and privileges freely given to us of God through Christ Jesus.
R1015:3, 936:3
We cannot eat anything that is alive, nor would anything that dieth of
itself (by disease) be fit for food. There was no way to give us this
life--food, except by the sacrifice of the man Christ Jesus, who did not
die because his life was forfeited, but who gave himself a ransom. R1014:6
In the Passover, through the blood-shedding, the life of the Israelites
was preserved; but the wilderness journey was before them, and they had to
eat the flesh as well. Through the shedding of Christ's precious blood we
have life. But that is not all. The journey of life has to be pursued,
enemies overcome, and discipline perfected--this requires heavenly food.
R1321:6*
An out and out contradiction of all the various claims to the effect that
a knowledge of the historic Christ and of his sacrifice for sins is
unnecessary to salvation. R2291:4
Of this bread -- Instead of the lamb would be the unleavened bread,
representing our Lord's flesh. SM563:3
To eat the flesh of Jesus literally would have merely produced flesh; but
to eat in the sense of appropriating his spirit and disposition is to
partake so that our Lord's qualities become ours. R4012:5
The bread -- During harvest there is reaping. Then follows the gathering
into the barn. After a little time to season, comes the threshing; then
the winnowing. Next comes the grinding of the pure grain; followed in due
time by the kneading together of the fine flour. Finally the oven does its
work (well heated), and the bread is ready for the hungry. R57:1*
I will give -- He had not yet given his flesh, through he was in the
process of giving it. He was drawing out its vitality, its strength, in
their service, but would complete the work of his sacrifice by
surrendering his all to death. R4147:1
To suppose that our Lord's fleshly body was raised on the third day, would
be to suppose that our Lord did not fully pay over the price necessary for
our redemption, and would contradict his statement in John 6:51. R4123:6,
1247:6, 253:3
It is our Lord who is sacrificing his "flesh." All the merit belongs to
him. R4491:2*
As fleshly Israel gained a standing before God through the typical broken
body and shed blood of bullocks and lambs, so do we in the merit of the
sacrifice of our Redeemer. R1336:3
Is my flesh -- Man is of the human or flesh nature; hence if the
spiritual son of God would give to dying men the bread of life, it must be
flesh, full of life-giving nutriment. R1014:5
It was the flesh which he sacrificed for us, not his pre-human existence
as a spirit being; although that was laid down, and its glory laid aside,
in order that he might take our human nature. R5870:6, 2772:3
The new creature's life was not given for the life of the world, the new
creature was not sacrificed for sins. R4108:5
Flesh and blood uniformly represent human nature. (Matt. 16:17; John 1:14;
Col. 1:22; Phn.16; 1 Cor. 15:50; 1 Pet. 1:24, 3:18, 4:1) R611:2
The fact that our Lord Jesus was holy, harmless, undefiled and separate
from sinners, and without any contamination from Father Adam, and hence
free from sin, permitted him to be the Redeemer of Adam and his race.
R2772:3, 2291:3
As it was the mission of our Lord not to rule or judge the world at his
first advent, but to lay down his life for the world; so it is the mission
of the Church not to rule or judge the world but to "lay down our lives
for the brethren." (1 John 3:16) R2415:3
The Church is to be counted in as part of that "flesh;" as Paul states,
"They two shall be one flesh...I speak concerning Christ and the church."
(Eph. 5:31,32) R4491:2*
Which I -- The new creature did the sacrificing of the man Christ Jesus,
and was the one recognized of the Father. R4108:5
Will give -- Jesus kept the law inviolate, therefore he had a right to
life, hence the Law did not demand his death, but when he died it was
willingly a sacrifice for our sins. R608:1
Never to take it again. Consequently, when he was raised again, his
existence was in a new nature, that our benefits might not be interfered
with, and also that the abundant power of the divine nature might be
exercised in actually reclaiming from sin and death those whom he had
legally rescued. R1592:1, 1247:5
Our Lord could not take it again without taking back the price of our
justification. R1228:5, 253:3, 16:6; NS177:5
He did not conquer nor overthrow justice, but recognizing the justice of
the law of God in the forfeit of the sinner's life, he purchased it back
with his own. R251:6, 15:4
Therefore it could not be resumed by him, and constitute his resurrection
body. R1995:6
Therefore he no longer lives the life in the flesh, the human life, but,
having sacrificed that, he is now highly exalted and ever liveth as our
divine High Priest. R1806:2
Nor could he return in the flesh. R1873:4
If by Jesus' flesh and blood we are to understand Jesus' spiritual nature,
then Jesus cannot now nor ever be a spiritual being, seeing he has given
that for the life of the world. R719:3, 611:1
As God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son to redeem
them, so likewise Christ loved the world as freely to become the
instrument of Jehovah for its salvation. R2099:3*
For the life of the world -- The Son of God was made flesh that he might
give his flesh for the life of the world. He was transformed from the
spiritual to the human nature, so that he might give an exact equivalent
for that which was lost. R1673:3
The giving of our Lord's unblemished flesh as a corresponding price for
father Adam's condemned flesh constituted the purchase price by which Adam
and all his race was redeemed. R2291:4
As the price paid by the Lord was a corresponding price, this proves that
those for whom this price was paid had lost or forfeited just such things
as corresponded to what was paid. R1228:4
He did not purchase the divine nature, but purchased father Adam and all
of his posterity according to the flesh--human nature. The Church has
given up human nature, therefore never shall reach human perfection. But,
while developing as new creatures, they need the imputation of the merit
to cover the blemishes and imperfections of original sin. SM667:1
John 6:53
Then Jesus said -- While our Lord addressed these words to the Jews, he
intended them more particularly for us to whom they have been communicated
and by whom they have been more fully understood. R4147:4
Except ye -- The Church. Q279:2, 703:T
Thus by faith. R1800:6
Eat -- But they could not eat him while he was alive, nor could they
even understand what he meant. R4147:1
The eating is as much a symbol as the flesh and blood. R611:3
Assimilate and appropriate by faith. R3132:2, 611:4
Eat and digest the truth of his uncorruptness, "bread from heaven." R1636:6
We do not eat the flesh of Jesus literally--we eat it by faith; that is to
say, we appropriate by faith to ourselves the merit, the efficacy, which
was in his flesh and which he surrendered to death on our behalf. R4147:1;
Q703:T; PT389:1
The result of such eating by faith implies our justification on the human
plane. R4147:3, 611:5; SM563:3
We have already eaten the true bread, Christ, and appropriated his virtue
and merit--by accepting by faith, as his gift of love, the blessings
secured for us by his death--"a ransom for all." (1 Tim. 2:6) R1799:5
We are to continue to eat that we may grow stronger and stronger, to
appropriate more and more the privileges which belonged to our Lord, but
which he surrendered on our behalf. R4147:3 Eventually the whole world
shall be privileged to eat of that flesh, to accept the grace of God in
the cancellation of their sins, and to realize that these blessings come
to them because Christ died for their sins. R4147:4
The flesh -- Sacrificed humanity. R3132:2
Partake of his justification. Q279:2; R936:6
Primarily, the bread (of the Memorial) represents our Lord's broken body.
F465
Represents restitution to human privileges, i.e., the means to its
attainment, and restores to man the life which he had forfeited--the life
lost in Adam--human life, earthly life. R5342:3
Jesus was so in the habit of saying peculiar things that if they stopped
to quarrel over them, they would have been led away from him. R5230:6,
2447:3
And -- There is a difference, we believe, between the bread and the
wine. The Church, in order to be accepted of the Lord as members of his
glorified Body, must share in both of these by participation. R5342:3
Drink his blood -- Additionally, those who are rightly influenced by the
eating, drawn to a full consecration of their all to him, receive a
special invitation during this Gospel age to drink of his blood. R4147:3,
611:5
Share his sacrifice. Q279:2; R536:6
The cup (of the Memorial) represents his blood, which seals our pardon.
F465
The blood is the life in Scriptural language, and hence ordinarily the
Jews were not to drink blood; to do so would make them guilty, or
responsible for the death of the person or creature. R4147:3; SM564:T
Those who partake of the blood of Christ in the communion cup symbolically
represent themselves as guilty of his death unless they see it signifying
his death as sealing the New Covenant, and their laying down their lives
with him in the great sacrifice through which the New Covenant will be
The world, when dealt with in the next age, by Jesus, will indeed have the
opportunity to eat of his flesh--appropriate the merits of his sacrifice,
but no opportunity of sharing in his cup, drinking his blood. R5342:2,
5087:6; Q279:2; SM564:T
The world will not share in the sufferings of Christ. The Lord said,
"Drink ye all of it"--drink it all. (Matt. 26:27) There will be none for
the world to drink. R5342:3
It is not shown symbolically anywhere in the Scriptures that the world
will partake of the blood, and thus participate in the sufferings of
Christ. R5342:5, 5421:4
All who accept this invitation to drink of the blood thereby pledge their
lives in the same service for which he gave his life. This thought is
entirely additional to anything in the Jewish Passover type. There is no
intimation that any of the household were to partake of the blood of the
slain lamb. SM564:1
Symbolically, the cup signifies the sacrificed life. The world will have
no share in the sufferings of Christ, represented in the cup. R5342:3,
5421:4
The cup, his shed blood, the blood of the New Covenant shed for many for
the remission of sins, had the same significance as the broken bread; our
partaking of it also meaning our appropriation of the benefits of his
sacrifice, thus securing our justification. R1800:6, 3880:2
Does not this apply to the sufferings of Christ even unto death, the
sacrificial cup, members of Christ's Body? Are they not the only ones that
have any life in them? R4489:2*
This blood and its use are shown in the Atonement Day of Lev. 16 and in
the blood of sprinkling in the Law. (Exod. 24:8) R5342:6
No life -- Unless he had sacrificed himself for us, we could never have
everlasting life. R1636:3, 840:5
To appropriate his flesh and its merits to ourselves we must acknowledge
our own helpless and hopeless condition and rely wholly on him and his
work for us. R1336:3, 5342:2, 611:4
They will be accounted or reckoned as beginning to live from the time that
they begin to eat, but they will not be fully alive, perfect, until the
close of the Millennial age of trial or testing. R3132:3
In you -- Inherent life--life in themselves. The difference between this
life and ordinary life is that the former is inherent, and the latter
maintained. R5609:1, 5342:3, 936:6; Q279:2
Not only did the breaking of Jesus' body provide the bread of life by
which a man, eating, shall never die; but it also opened the "narrow way"
to life, and gave us access to the truth, spiritual food, as an aid in its
walking. R1636:3, 840:5
John 6:54
Hath eternal life -- Our Lord's statements in many instances are made so
broad that they cover, not only the Little Flock, but the Great Company as
well. These, too, will have eternal life, but not immortality; not life in
themselves. R5343:1
John 6:55
My flesh is meat -- The typical lamb represented Jesus himself, his own
sacrifice for the sins of the world. NS75:1
Indeed -- Meaning that this is the most valuable food and drink ever
known. R5343:1
John 6:56
He that eateth -- Continuously. R2291:3

The idea that we are all right, and sure of the Kingdom because of an
experience we had five, ten, twenty or forty years ago, is a dangerous
one. What is our condition now? R38:5*
Appropriate his merits; justification. R936:6
And drinketh -- Continuously. R2291:3
Share with him in his sacrifice by rendering their justified humanity a
sacrifice to his service. R936:6
John 6:57
Hath sent me -- Jesus was the honored servant of Jehovah, and his
representative among men in the fullest sense. E43
John 6:58
Came down from heaven -- Whatever others may think or say of him, he
claimed to be sent of God, and of heavenly origin. R1059:2
He that eateth -- Not only was it necessary that Jesus should die, a
meritorious sacrifice, but it is also necessary that all who would have
profit through his sacrifice, must feed upon him, must appropriate the
merit of his sacrifice. SM562:2
The eating of the Lamb signifies our appropriating justification from sin.
We eat by faith, and therefore are said to be "justified by faith." SM562:3
The more we eat, the greater is our feeling of satisfaction in respect to
our freedom from condemnation and our reinstatement in divine favor
through the merit of our Passover Lamb. SM562:3
John 6:60
This is an hard saying -- A difficult saying. R5088:2

It was a custom with Jesus to express truth under cover, in "dark
sayings," and to many this is one of the darkest. R611:1, 5506:3
Our Lord spake in this dark manner with the very intention that the
majority might not understand. NS307:2
We can imagine their consternation, and to assist us in sympathizing with
them we should remember that they were not spirit-begotten, because
Pentecost had not yet come. R4146:6
Today, while it is generally recognized that Jesus did not mean that they
were to eat his literal flesh, few have a very clear idea of what he did
mean. R611:1
Considerably true is the claim of some that the doctrines of Christianity
can be better gleaned from the writings of the apostles than from the
sayings of Jesus because he spoke to none who had been spirit-begotten.
R5088:2
Similarly, shortly after, when telling the twelve of his approaching
crucifixion, Peter brought upon himself a rebuke by saying, "Far be it
from thee, Lord. This thing shall not happen unto thee." (Matt. 16:22)
R4756:1
Are not some who were co-laborers, now stumbling at the word that the
suffering of the Church as a sin-offering by the High Priest of our
profession is a hard saying and will have none of it? R4489:3*
Who can hear it? -- Nothing can be explained, only to such as are able
to receive it by previous leading or training. R38:5*
So today there are some who cannot receive this teaching, which is the
fundamental one of the Gospel of Christ. R4147:1
John 6:61
Doth this offend -- What consternation would follow in the churches

today if the ministers of the Gospel should similarly declare the whole
counsel of God! How quickly they would become unpopular. R5507:6, 3153:2
John 6:62
Ascend up -- A part of the great lesson that Jesus was no longer dead,
and no longer flesh--that he is "highly exalted." PD71/85
Where he was before -- On the spirit plane. R5578:6
Proving the Lord's pre-existence. R1161:4
Identifying the "Son of Man" with the Lord of glory, and with the man
Christ Jesus, who gave himself, and with the pre-human Logos, which came
down from heaven and was made flesh. E150
We conclude that before his advent to earth he occupied the right hand, or
chief position on the heavenly or spiritual plane, but not so exalted as
his present position at Jehovah's right hand. R1059:3, 445:5* Referring to
a difference in nature, in condition, from that he then had. Jesus had
been in the world many times before, but never before was made flesh.
R5622:4
Not merely a return to a previous place; rather, it should be understood
to signify a return to a previous condition, a spirit condition. R5589:5
His memory extended back to his previous existence with the Father before
the world was. R1916:5
The Bible nowhere tells us that Jesus took the human nature to keep it
forever, and to return with it to heaven, where it would be completely out
of order and out of place. HG627:6
John 6:63
Quickeneth -- Has an invigorating influence upon. R193:1*

The words that I speak -- Although the apostles explain the philosophy
of the divine plan in great detail, yet in Jesus' sayings we find the very
essence and kernel of the Gospel, and nowhere are the terms of
discipleship more carefully laid down. R5088:5
They are spirit -- To impress his disciples with the thought that they
should not take his words too literally, but should look for the deeper
meaning, which they could not expect to get until after his ascension.
R5088:5
The words of Jesus were spiritual and could be understood only by those
possessing the spiritual key, the illumination of the holy Spirit. R5088:5
It is useless to pray, Lord give us the Spirit, and neglect the Word of
truth from whence that Spirit is to be supplied. Many seek the outward
signs as proof of relationship, instead of the inward witness with the
Word of truth. R376:3; E225
If we merely pray for the Spirit and do not use the proper means to obtain
the Spirit of truth, we will continue to be at most "babes in Christ." E225
Independent thinkers, rejecting the dogmas of the past, have rejected the
Bible also. These wander hither and thither, hungering and thirsting,
looking for the Bread of life, and finding it nowhere, because they seek
not where alone it is to be found. OV260:2
Jesus did not say that his flesh was spiritual, but his words. R611:1
They are life -- In the sense that they conveyed the great message of
the terms upon which we may have everlasting life and become his
joint-heirs. R5088:5
This quality of the Lord's message makes the religion of the Bible
different from that of all the heathen--a message of life as well as of
holiness, of forgiveness as well as of condemnation, of love as well as of
justice. R4644:6
Moses, personating Christ, foretold the blessed influence of the Lord's
words, saying, "My doctrine shall drop as the rain; my speech shall distil
as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers
upon the grass." (Deut. 32:2) R1937:2
John 6:64
There are some -- The Lord's preaching always produced two opposite
effects upon the multitudes that heard him: he attracted one class and
repelled the other. R5507:6
Jesus knew -- The Lord's message and leading were so much intended to
shake off and repel one class as to attract and hold another class. R2257:3
John 6:65
Therefore said I -- We read nothing of our Lord's becoming excited to a

frenzy and appealing to the people and teaching them that they were about
to fall into an eternity of torture if they did not receive him. R4147:6
Except it were given -- Ye have seen me and believed not; because ye are
not of the flock of sheep whom my Father hath given me to lead at the
John 6:66
Of his disciples -- Of course they then ceased to be his disciples and

were no longer so recognized. A disciple is a pupil, a learner; and when a
man ceases to be a student and pupil of Christ, he is no longer his
disciple. R5508:1
Went back -- Because of the claim of heavenly origin and pre-human
existence. R1059:2; E89
Some because the chief priests said, "He has a devil and is mad." (John
10:20) Some because they did not understand his teachings. Others because
his teaching drew the line too sharply between righteousness and sin.
R2257:3
Failing to enter into the spirit of his teachings, failing to get the eyes
of their understanding opened, because their hearts were not in the proper
attitude. The way was too narrow for them; they had not a sufficiency of
consecration or of love to lead them to the full surrender. NS382:2
The Lord's leading and the Lord's words lose their attraction to such, and
they lose their interest correspondingly. R2258:4
Such siftings and testings of the Lord's disciples have been in progress
throughout the Gospel age, and shall continue. R2257:3
This was at the Passover season (verse 4), when there seems to be a
greater liability of falling into sin than at other seasons, a peculiar
force of temptations. R3178:3
No more with him -- We are intentionally exposed to the various voices
which would call us away from our Shepherd, and from following in his
footsteps. R2257:2
If the Lord had undertaken the work of the ministry according to the
methods pursued today, depending for support on the good will and
contributions of the people, the support would often have been very
meager. R5507:6
John 6:67
Will ye also -- The Lord turned to some of his faithful who had remained
and who had taken his yoke to follow him. NS382:3
As our Lord was not expecting all to come to him, so he could not expect
either that many would go on still further and make the consecration to
walk in his steps in the narrow way and thus be partakers of his cup.
R4148:1
Every trial, persecution and difficulty of life is permitted to come upon
those who have made the covenant of sacrifice to prove them, to test their
love, to see whether or not their characters are fixed in righteousness.
R2258:3
Only the merest handful remained. R5507:6, 3153:2
There is just a tinge of disappointment in our Master's words. It was
because he was true, noble and sympathetic, and loved his friends, the
lonely sadness crept over him and found expression in these words. R1710:3
"The Lord your God proveth you to know whether ye love the Lord your God
with all your heart and with all your soul." (Deut. 13:3) R2258:1
When various voices call in various directions, away from the narrow way
of consecration, and sacrifice, humiliation and self-denial, in answer to
the Lord's query, "Will ye also go away?" we will answer as the apostles
of old. R2258:5
John 6:68
To whom shall we go? -- Peter had known what it meant to seek God's
favor and everlasting life through keeping the Law; and had been
discouraged, finding himself condemned both by the doctrines of the
Pharisees and by his own conscience. Doubtless, also, he knew something of
the various heathen philosophies. R1711:1
Peter's faith and hope had found in the doctrines of Christ a foundation
and anchorage which they could not find elsewhere. R1711:2
So it is with us, we decide that although we have liberty to turn from the
Lord, we could not think of so doing. We have formed a hatred for our
former taskmaster, sin, and a dislike for the wages, death. NS382:4
For the consecrated to turn back would be to "turn back unto perdition,"
to the second death. R2258:5
Having once heard the good tidings--the words of everlasting life--for
what would we exchange it? R1711:2
Those who will stand the test here will be just like those for whom Peter
spoke in the previous harvest testing. We will abide with and follow the
great captain of our salvation: in his words and love and service we live
and move and have our being as the elect of God. R1711:6, 2558:6
We would starve spiritually if we went to any other than the Lord's table.
R5570:4
The true people of God have no desire to go to any one but him. If they
stumble, they recover themselves, avail themselves of his arrangements for
forgiveness and press on. R5218:3
Having heard the calls of the world, the flesh, and the devil, they have
seen the emptiness of all their false promises, and how none of them can
give a satisfying portion. R2258:5, 2257:2
How long it takes us to learn assuredly that worldly pleasures are
fleeting, and that they have a bitter which counterbalances every sweet,
and that the tendencies of Vanity Fair are quite contrary to the new
ambitions, new hopes, new desires of our new natures! R2257:6
Words of eternal life -- The message of eternal life. R3795:2
His teaching was that as a result of the ransom-sacrifice, which, by
divine love and arrangement, he was about to give for all, all shall have
the opportunity of everlasting life. R1711:1
He has been feeding us on the message of truth and life. R5570:4
The promised reward of righteousness through Christ, which he has promised
to them that love him--namely, eternal life. R2258:5
The class who hear the Master's voice are most wonderfully blessed. These
find in his word the promise of a blessing in the life that now is and
also in that which is to come. NS412:1
We are so in love with the Savior, the true yoke-fellow, who has become
our burden-bearer and the burden-bearer for the whole world, that we could
not turn back. NS382:4
There is no other message of eternal life open during the present age than
the call to joint-heirship with Christ, suffering unto death with him that
we may share his glory thereafter. SM347:2
So it has been from that day to this, amongst those who have really heard
and truly appreciate God's message through his Son and through the
apostles. They have found in the Gospel message the only balm for this
present life, the only explanation of the present unhappy condition.
NS495:3
In the present harvest of the Gospel age, we have seen many of the "deep
things" in the divine plan; clear lessons of the great Teacher--the words
of glory, honor and immortality--words of eternal life. R1711:4
John 6:69
That Christ -- Peter recognized Jesus as the Messiah sent of God to be

the Life-giver to the world, the true light that shall ultimately lighten
every man that cometh into the world. (John 1:9) R1711:2
The refreshing evidence that the truth had taken fast hold of some. Not
only was Jesus' heart cheered by Peter's zeal, but Peter also was blessed,
"Blessed out thou Simon." (Matt. 16:16, 17) R785:2
John 6:70
Chosen you twelve -- There never were to be more than these twelve.
OV395:5, 396:1
The Lord's specialization of the twelve apostles is variously referred to.
R5002:6, 1521:2
The apostles occupied a special place in connection with his Kingdom, his
Church, assigned to no others. R2820:1
The commission of the apostles was, in the main, the same as the
commission of the Lord and of the whole church. It was to preach the
gospel of the kingdom; but the twelve also were to be his witnesses to
bear testimony of him after his death. R1521:5
Our Lord's object in selecting or ordaining the twelve was to so train and
empower them, and to so establish their testimony concerning the truth of
God, that other seekers might be convinced of the truth. (John 17:6-9, 20,
21) R1521:6
In making the choice the Lord doubtless took cognizance, not only of the
willingness of heart on the part of these twelve, but also of the
circumstances and fitness of the individuals for the pioneer work that was
before them. R1521:3
The number corresponded to the sons of Jacob, the representatives and
founders of the tribes of Israel, which in one phase of their typical
character stood for the entire Gospel Church, and in another for the whole
world. R1522:1
Seven reasons that these were ordained to fill the important office of
apostles in the church; and four points on apostolic inspiration.
R1524-1526
The early Church never regarded the apostles as lords in the Church; and
the apostles never assumed such authority or dignity. Nor did any of these
leading servants go about in priestly robes. R1523:5
They rightly reverenced the piety and the superior spiritual knowledge and
wisdom of the apostles, and regarding them, as they really were, as the
Lord's specially chosen ambassadors to them, they sat at their feet as
learners, yet not with blank, unquestioning minds. R1524:4
We have their teachings in the New Testament, so full and complete as to
require no addition; and hence the twelve apostles have no successors.
E207; CR396:1
The early bishops, in accepting the title of apostles and claiming for
themselves succession to the apostolic office, were honestly deluded, as
much as were the people who thus acknowledged them. OV396:2
God gave the twelve to Jesus and he lost none of them save Judas, whose
disloyalty had already been foretold. CR395:5
The other disciples, not so chosen, were also beloved of the Lord, and
were doubtless in full sympathy with this appointment, recognizing it as
in the interests of the work in general. R1521:3
Is a devil -- Or adversary. R439:1
Upon Judas alone, of all who had to do with his death, our Lord placed the
full responsibility and guilt. (Matt. 26:24) R4909:3, 1962:5
Jesus lost none of the twelve save Judas, whose disloyalty had already
been foretold. OV395:5
In his own due time God brought forth the successor of Judas, St. Paul, of
whom it is written that he was "not one whit behind the chiefest of the
apostles." (2 Cor. 11:5) God ignored the choice of Matthias. OV395:4;
R1522:2, 1523:2
John 7
John 7:1
After these things -- At least six months later, quite possibly a year
and six months later, than the previous chapter. Evidently there was a
considerable time in which our Lord "could not walk in Jewry, because the
Jews sought to kill him." R3509:4, 2437:2
In Galilee -- His home, to the extent he ever had one, most of his time
being spent there. R2448:1
Not walk in Jewry -- Judea. R1069:3*, 2437:2
Sought to kill him -- The scribes and Pharisees were jealous of his
popularity, ashamed of his following and afraid that he would yet become
the center of a futile movement antagonistic to the Roman government and
their own prestige. NS629:5
They had greater animosity toward Jesus than toward John the Baptist, for
in him they recognized a superiority over themselves, and because the
ignorant, common people heard him gladly. R4130:2
Later they also sought the death of Lazarus, who was a living witness to
his Messianic power. R2448:1; NS629:5
John 7:2
The Jews' -- The usage of the Jewish people on this occasion is

described in lengthy quotes from Edersheim and others. R3509:1, 2438:5
Feast -- From the 15th to the 22nd of Tishri, the seventh month,
corresponding closely to October 1, but varying according to the Jewish
calendar, which was calculated on lunar time. R3508:3
Of tabernacles -- Held in connection with the Day of Atonement and its
sacrifices for sins, which typified the better sacrifices of the Gospel
age and the ultimate atonement for the sins of the whole world. R3508:6
Dwelling in booths. R3508:3
Instituted at the time Israel passed from the wilderness into the land of
promise. It commemorated the wilderness life and the entrance into Canaan,
where they were privileged to enjoy their inheritance. R3509:1
Really the festival of the New Year, and a kind of thanksgiving occasion
for the ingathering or harvest of the year. R3509:1
This and the Passover Feast divided the Jewish year. On these occasions
people from all over the kingdom were expected to visit Jerusalem to spend
a week in fellowship, in thanksgiving to the Lord and the making of vows.
R3508:3
These two festivals represent the beginning of a year--the one the civil
year, the other the church year, yet both might be termed religious since
the entire national government was built upon a religious foundation.
R3508:3
Was at hand -- This was the last feast of Tabernacles attended by our
Lord, occurring just six months before the crucifixion. R3509:4, 443:2*
John 7:3
Go into Judea -- Where the most learned men of the nation would have an
opportunity for seeing, criticizing and fault-finding, and if possible,
refuting his claims and miracles. R3509:5, 2437:2, 1069:4
John 7:4
If thou do -- Either do something, and make yourself great in the eyes

of the whole world, or give the whole matter up and admit that your claims
to Messiahship are fraudulent. R2437:2
Shew thyself -- Their interest all along had been rather of pride than
of faith. R2437:2
John 7:5
Neither did his brethren -- His kinsfolk. R2437:2

Probably his cousins, for cousins at that time were called "brethren."
R3509:4
In olden times the expression "brethren" signified kinsfolk, including
cousins as well as brothers. R2424:6
They seemingly could not understand why he was so revolutionary in his
teachings and so antagonistic to all the recognized religious teachers of
his day, while his mother doubtless still pondered the mystery in her
mind. R1736:5
Persecution from his earthly kindred was not lacking. He was unwelcome in
the home of his childhood. (Matt. 8:20) They seemed ashamed of the
unpopular notoriety which his course brought upon them as a family.
R1069:3*
So it will probably be in the end of this age with the Body of Christ. The
separation must come closer and closer, with friend after friend
departing. R1069:4*
Mark 3:20,21,31 (Diaglott) seems to indicate more a spirit of fear and
anxiety on the part of the Lord's mother and brethren, than of opposition.
R1736:5
His mother was doubtless always in sympathy with him, though she could not
fully understand him. With a mother's love as well as that of a disciple,
she shared his reproach and followed him to Calvary and the tomb. R1069:4*
John 7:6
Is alway ready -- They might go at any time, but he was under certain
restrictions. R2437:2
John 7:7
Cannot hate you -- They had not drawn upon them the murderous animosity
of the most influential and powerful class of the nation. R2437:2
Me it hateth -- And they seek my life. R1069:4* Because of his
faithfulness to the truth, which he came to the world to serve. R2437:2
In proportion as you "let your light so shine" (Matt. 5:16) the world will
hate you as it hated me. Q321:4
If we are finding no opposition to the world it is because we have not
been faithful to our Father's Word, and to our appointed mission in
connection with it. R2437:3
John 7:8
I go not up -- Evidently not for fear of death. He felt it to be his

duty not to ignore the Father's plan, so as to require a special miracle
for his deliverance, that the divine plan might not be frustrated. R2437:3
While realizing that he had divine protection until his "hour" should
come, nevertheless he did not tempt providence by going unnecessarily in
the way of danger, rather shaping his course according to the conditions
he found. R3509:4
We should not needlessly place ourselves in positions of jeopardy,
expecting the Lord to miraculously intervene for our preservation; however
we are not to deny the truth or forsake a duty for the preservation of our
lives. R2437:4
Yet -- For our Lord to have gone up early to the feast might have
provoked the animosity of the religious teachers the more. R3509:5
His delay in going was no injury to the publicity of his teachings,
because the people naturally inquired for him, expressed wonder, discussed
his claims and told one another what they had seen and heard in their own
areas. R3509:5
Full come -- Neither the time for manifesting his power to the world,
nor to lay down his life as a sacrifice. R1069:4*
John 7:10
Not openly -- Seemingly avoiding the very means of centering public

attention upon himself which would favor the sentiment of making him the
King. In the triumphal entry, he deliberately does the opposite. R2296:2
John 7:14
About the midst -- He may have known that the rulers would seek to
apprehend him at the beginning of the feast, during the commotion incident
to the arrival of the pilgrims. Thus he deferred going until after the
multitudes had gone. R2437:5
John 7:15
How knoweth -- As a perfect human being his mind was active and strong,
his reasoning powers astute, his perceptives awake to educating
influences, his moral perceptions discarding all evil and his memory
treasuring up all of worth. R1682:2
They knew of Jesus' power with the people through the spirit of the Lord
and of his straightforward presentation of the truth. To this day this is
true of the followers of Jesus. R5840:1
Having never learned -- In any of their schools. R5840:1
His humble birth gave him none of the advantages of education or social
culture, yet even at twelve, all that heard him in conversation with the
learned doctors of the Law were astonished at his understanding and
answers. R1682:1
The class chosen to announce Jesus as King of the Jews was not a
prepossessing one (being "unlearned"--Acts 4:13). It was so unlike the
expectations of the Jews and out of harmony with their religious teachers,
that they failed to recognize Jesus as the Messiah. R748:1
Similarly the perfect minds of the resurrected Ancient Worthies will
quickly grasp present-day knowledge and inventions. And as Jesus taught
positively, definitely and clearly, so it will be with these. D626
John 7:16
My doctrine -- My teaching. E50; R3726:5; NS773:5

Not mine, but his -- Our Lord's discourses were along the lines of
divine revelation--the Law and the prophets. We should teach, as his
representatives, along the same line; not human speculations and
philosophies, but the Word of God. R3726:5
John 7:17
If any man -- Obedience is important if we want the Lord's help to

understand the plan. R85:4*, 74:2*
Mere depth of knowledge, power of discernment, or even prophetic insight,
must be qualified by love of the truth, faith in God and devotion to
personal holiness. R782:1*
The intimation is that wrong-heartedness is intimately associated with
wrong-headedness, as respects doctrines. R4334:2
If obedience to the Lord and to the truth brought us into the light,
disobedience or loss of the Spirit of the Lord undoubtedly will lead us
out of the light into the darkness prevalent all about us. R4334:3
Whoever, therefore, loses the doctrines of Christ after once having them,
has surely done more than get his head confused; his heart must have been
separated from the Lord previously. R5948:3
Will do -- Wills, or wishes to. R285:5, 210:5*
Fully consecrated to God and fully desirous of knowing his will and his
plan. R5137:5
The Jews and the majority of professed Christians do not understand his
words now; only such as have consecrated themselves to the Lord and have
received the holy Spirit. R2419:3
For those who have made a covenant with him by sacrifice, a provision has
been made whereby the willing, all desiring to do the divine will, and
manifesting efforts so to do, are counted as righteous. R5137:5
If we are advanced in truth, we should also be advanced in holiness; and
obedience to God's will is an important aid in knowing the truth. R24:6*
His will -- The Father's will. R4334:2, 5948:3, 3188:4, 2453:6, 923:1
Whosoever will resolve that he will no longer fear man, neither be in
subjection to the creeds of the Dark Ages, but accept the Lord as his
Shepherd, and listen only for the voice of his Word, walking only in
accordance with its directions, fearing God and not fearing man, shall be
blessed. NS400:4
God's will represents actual perfection of thought, word and deed toward
God, the Body of Christ and all mankind. This is the divine standard set
up, but we are no more able to fulfill its demands than were the Jews.
R5137:5
He shall know -- Only from the "inside" can the great plan of God be
seen and appreciated, and only the "brethren" are admitted to this inside
view. R2453:6
In proportion as not only the Jews, but all others, come into close accord
with both the letter and the spirit of the divine Word, will they find in
them the keys of the mystery of God. R2419:3 He is revealed in one sense
in the statements of his Word, but he is revealed to the heart when his
statements are understood; and the spirit of obedience is essential to
understanding. We are to grow in grace and in knowledge. R74:2*
"Light is sown for the righteous." (Psa. 97:11) R4809:4, 1114:6
They shall not walk in darkness. R1114:6
These will learn faster to be able to prepare themselves for regal
employment in the royal family. R285:5, 210:5*
Those who sacrifice, suffer and endure most in the cause they serve--the
Lord and the truth--are "always rejoicing" (2 Cor. 6:10) because, having
done the Father's will, they know of Christ's doctrine. R1103:2
While education and thought-habits have much to do with our way of looking
at matters, yet to suppose that honest-minded men, whose whole desire is
to learn the will of God, could each go to the Bible and arrive at
dissimilar religious views, implies either that God's Word is not a
revelation, or that fallen man is so twisted that it is impossible for him
to reason with the Creator. R922:6
Of the doctrine -- We are living in a day when the very word "doctrine"
seems offensive to the majority of Christians. Each denomination realizes
its own system of doctrines is imperfect, and the same is believed in
respect to all others. R5136:3
Our Lord associates his Word and doctrine with true discipleship. R3188:4*
Instead of shunning doctrines, we should realize that they are the very
things needed to cause the scattering of our darkness and superstitions,
and to draw all of God's people nearer together. R5136:6
Evolutionists certainly cannot hold the fundamental teaching of
Christianity. CR119:6
Whether I speak of myself -- Whether Jesus merely made up these
teachings himself, or whether he was the active agent of Jehovah in what
he did and in what he taught. R5137:6
What we all need as God's people is to put away human theories and other
gospels and take hold afresh on the Gospel of Christ. These other gospels
are other messages of hope, aside from the one which the Bible presents.
R5137:2
John 7:18
That sent him -- Our Lord Jesus was and still is the Great Teacher of
men by the appointment of the Heavenly Father, the great Master, Teacher
above all. Likewise our Lord appointed special teachers under him, the
apostles and others in the Church, to be under-shepherds of the Lord's
flock. E50
John 7:19
Moses give you -- God dealt only with one man in connection with the
making of the Law Covenant; and that man was Moses, who stood in the
position of a father to the whole nation, the nation being regarded and
treated as children under age. R5046:4, 1725:3
As God's representative on the one hand, and as Israel's representative on
the other, Moses could be and was the Mediator of the Law Covenant between
God and that nation. R5046:6, 1725:4
Was our Lord deceived respecting Hammurabi's law, palmed off by Moses as
of divine origin? No! R3177:4
None of you keepeth -- Our Lord's censures of Pharisaism were not of
their endeavor to keep the Law blamelessly, but for hypocrisy, claiming
perfection and holiness with an outward cleansing, while their hearts were
still impure, unconsecrated. B84
Since the Law was the measure of a perfect man's ability, no Israelite or
any other man could get the blessings which it promised. All got more or
less the curse or punishment, which failure to keep it threatened. R5946:3
They could not keep it, could not be justified by it. R4014:2
While the Jews had a blessing in the way of divine instruction through the
Law, yet because unable to keep its requirements, they were specially
condemned by it. NS18:5
John 7:23
On the sabbath day -- So, during the antitypical sabbath, the

Millennium, it will be declared to all the world that "whosoever will"
(Rev. 22:17) may have life and health eternal if they take the steps of
faith and obedience. B40
John 7:24
Judge not -- The "doctors of divinity" of that time not only ignored our
Lord's teachings, but opposed, and spoke evil against him falsely; warning
and cajoling the common people, who heard him gladly, until they cried for
his blood. R2432:3
According to the appearance -- We cannot judge each other's hearts. We
are incapable; and, besides, we are forbidden. R4334:2
If we see one doing something improper, we might say, "Your conduct would
seem to be contrary to the Word of God." If he should reply, "It does not
seem to me that I am doing wrong," we must not judge or condemn his heart.
R5245:5; Q384:5, 385:3
Righteous judgment -- There is a difference between judging the heart,
which we have no right to do, and judging the conduct, which is right to
do. But it does not follow that our judgment of another's conduct must
always be right. R5245:5; Q384:5, 385:4
John 7:26
Do the rulers know -- The fact that he was teaching publicly, and the
rulers did not interfere with him, led to this inquiry. R2437:6
The common people always referred to the learned. R5087:2
John 7:30
Then they sought -- When the rulers saw that their timidity was really
advancing the cause which they hated. R2437:6
No man laid hands -- Because they feared the people, that too large a
proportion would have at least a sympathy for his teachings. R2437:5
He seems to have exerted that power which belonged to him as a perfect man
over weaker, imperfect men--the power of his mind alone, we believe, which
overwhelmed and cowed their fierce passions. R1715:6
However great a power Satan may exercise over the world, we know that his
power does not extend to the Church. In Heb. 2:14 his "power of death"
should evidently be translated "dominion of death." R1271:3
His hour was not -- Everything that God does is in accordance with a
definitely prearranged plan; and his appointed times and seasons are no
insignificant or unimportant part of that plan. B25
The type could never pass away until its antitype had come, and the
antitype of the killing of the Passover lamb must occur on its
anniversary, the fourteenth day of Nisan. R2771:6, 3526:1; F461, 481;
NS77:5
When the appointed time came for the sacrifice of the Son for the
redemption of the world, then the rulers of the darkness of the world had
their way. R1682:1
But when his hour was come he opened not his mouth, nor resisted in any
degree the throngs that sought his life. R1715:6
John 7:31
More miracles than these -- Many of the multitude were favorably

impressed and wondered if they could expect any greater miracles from
Messiah than Jesus had done. R2437:5
John 7:32
The chief priests -- The special opponents of our Master were not the
unbelieving world, but the unfaithful professors of holiness and of
devotion to the divine Law. So our special opponents are to be looked for
within the nominal Christian church. R2437:3
Sent officers -- Similar to the ones they sent to arrest him in the
Garden of Gethsemane. R2467:6
John 7:33
Unto them -- Apparently they felt they must hear some rebellious,
anarchistic or blasphemous utterances from his lips or they would not be
justified in the eyes of the people in making his arrest. R2437:6
Yet a little while -- Only about six months longer. R2438:1
I go -- Jesus had in mind the murderous designs of his enemies, and that
it behooved the Son of Man to suffer and to rise from the dead. R2438:1
John 7:34
Ye shall seek me -- The Jews have been seeking the Messiah during the
eighteen centuries of trouble experienced since that time. R2438:1
Ye cannot come -- Meaning, he was going to heaven. R2438:2
John 7:35
Whither will he go -- The apostles did this afterward, preaching to the

Jew first, and afterward to the Gentiles. R2125:3
The dispersed -- There were probably more "Jews" living outside
Palestine, among the nations, than resided in Palestine. R2125:3
The scattered Jews amongst the Greeks, speaking the Greek language, and
not the Syrian, the language of the Jews in Palestine. R2438:2
It was to these "dispersed Jews," "Israelites" of "our twelve tribes" that
James and Peter wrote epistles. R2125:3
Contrary to the teaching of "Anglo-Israelites," the scattered Jews were
not considered lost in the Lord's time. R2438:2
Teach the Gentiles -- It would not occur to a Jew that anyone claiming
to be the Jewish Messiah would go to the Gentiles. R2125:3
John 7:37
In the last day -- The eighth day. R443:2*, 2438:4

The seventh day. R3509:3
Seven days were devoted to sacrificing, seventy bullocks being burned upon
the altar, and understood to be sacrificed for the whole world; but this
eighth day was especially a Jewish day, the most joyous of this
thanksgiving feast. R2438:4
That great day -- The last day of the feast, early in the morning, a
priest with a golden pitcher led a procession to draw water from the Pool
of Siloam, to pour on the altar, apparently symbolizing the outpouring of
the holy Spirit. R3509:3
When the religious sentiments of the people were at their highest pitch he
called their attention to the deep spiritual things symbolized by them
year by year continually. R3509:5
The feast -- The Feast of Tabernacles; about six months after the third
Passover which was observed by our Lord: about six months before his
crucifixion. R443:2*, 3509:4
Jesus stood -- Presumably it was just at the close of the pouring of the
golden pitcher of water on the altar, with the multitude in the warm
climate probably thirsty, aggravated by the sight of water, that Jesus
made his announcements. R3509:5, 38:2*
Using the pouring out of the libation as his text. Presenting himself as
the giver of the water of life, as in the more private discourse to the
woman of Samaria. (John 4) R2438:4
And cried -- At the moment of the water offering there arose, so loud as
to be heard throughout the temple, the voice of Jesus. He interrupted not
the services, for they had for the moment ceased; he interpreted, and he
fulfilled them. R2438:6*
If any man thirst -- All have some conception of natural thirst, but
there are other thirsts and cravings of the human nature which need
satisfaction; cravings for rest, peace, joy and fellowship. R3509:6, 2438:5
All who have sought to satisfy the earthly desires of fame, pleasure or
wealth have found that they do not satisfy, but those who have received
the water of life have received the only satisfying portion. R2438:5
Before anyone can come to the Lord he must thirst, he must have an
appreciation of that which the Lord has to give--the water, the
refreshment of eternal life. Our thirst is our desire. R4132:4
Only those who have such thirsts are called upon; "Blessed are they that
hunger and thirst." (Matt. 5:6) R3509:6
In the present time our thirst is in one sense of the word insatiable, in
the sense that the Lord's blessings are so great and so good that we can
never in the present day and present condition have enough of them. R4132:5
Nevertheless, there is a measure of satisfaction in our drinking, even in
the present time. As a thirsty one at a fountain drinks with relish, with
appreciation and satisfaction, only to take more and more. R4132:5
Let him come -- The coming to the Lord is the approach of faith. R4132:4
Unto me -- Let us see to it that we recognize no other fountain than the
Lord Jesus, no matter how much we may appreciate the channels through
which the supply may have come to us. R4132:5
And drink -- The receiving of the Spirit is the satisfying of our
thirst. All through life we are drinking at this fountain. We will not be
satisfied until we awake in the Lord's likeness. (Psa. 17:15) R3510:1
Water is the symbol of truth. R4132:4
John 7:38
He that believeth -- In the present time those who drink are merely the
sanctified. In Rev. 21 we have the picture of the Body of Christ in glory,
the New Jerusalem, from which issues the water of life which our Lord
referred to in his discourse. R3509:2
Out of his belly -- While the Lord will lead the Great Multitude to
waters of life, they will not be, like the Bride, possessed of
immortality, which the Lord describes as water springing up in his people.
(John 4:14) R5865:5
Not fulfilled at Pentecost. There the Lord's followers began to drink and
be united into one body. It is from this one body that the stream of water
of life shall flow during the Millennium for the blessing of the world.
R3510:1
Shall flow rivers -- In each member of the Temple class already is a
well-spring of truth and grace. When these well-springs shall be united to
the great Head and Fountain, the results will naturally be a stream of
good proportions; a river. R2508:3, 3510:2, 2424:4
Now a well of water in each believer's heart, overflowed many times, then
the pure river of the water of life flowing wide and deep from out of the
city and over the world. R118:1*
The river of water of life does not flow at the present time. It cannot
flow out to the "nations" until all the Little Flock as well-springs shall
be brought together in the Kingdom. R2424:4
In order to be of the class from whom the great river of water of life
will usher, it is necessary first that we come to Jesus and drink of him.
As a result, all of the elect Church shall become minor well-springs in
due time. R2508:4
Living water -- Water of life--truth. R3510:2, 2424:4; E386
John 7:39
They that believe on him -- They were not waiting as sinners for power.
They were already believers in the Lord and already consecrated to doing
the Father's will, but they had not yet been acknowledged by the Father.
NS201:3
The holy Spirit was given as a guide and comforter of the heirs of
immortality, ever since Jesus was glorified. R385:4*
The Holy Ghost -- Variously called the holy Spirit, the Spirit of God,
the Spirit of Christ, the Spirit of truth, the Spirit of a sound mind, the
Spirit of sonship. The various qualities are all applicable to the same
class, the spirit-begotten. R5582:6
The Spirit in the sense of a witness of our sonship; as a guide into all
truth. R218:4
Not yet given -- No manifestation of the Spirit of God, prior to the
first advent, was exactly the same as that upon our Lord Jesus, from
baptism to crucifixion, and upon his Church from the day of Pentecost
until now. E176
The holy Spirit exercised upon the prophets and under which influence they
spake and wrote is different from the holy Spirit granted to the Gospel
Church since Pentecost; a spirit of adoption and not the spirit of
prophecy. R3510:1; E177
Throughout the Jewish age God was the instructor of the Israelites through
Moses and the prophets; but they were not sons of God. They did not have
the Spirit's begetting to sonship, but were only a house of servants.
R5582:6
The begetting power of the new nature was given after Jesus' death,
resurrection and ascension, to those who waited to be adopted from the
house of servants into the house of sons. R2788:2, 2584:1
Previously the holy Spirit simply signified a holy energy and meant no
begetting to sonship. Only persons fully consecrated are spirit-begotten
now, but any person might be used of the Lord as a servant. R5637:3
Even the angels, sometimes used of the Lord as his channels in
communicating with the prophets, were not permitted to understand the
meaning of their communications, any more than were the prophets. E178
Jesus sent out the twelve, and afterwards the seventy as his personal
representatives. He gave them of his own spirit. But they had not been
recognized of the Father, they must wait for the spirit-begetting and
anointing. R5587:5, 4593:2; NS201:3
The power by which the disciples did miracles then, while it was holy
spirit or holy power, was not their own, but the Lord's. He gave them
power, but they received no power direct from God until Pentecost. R1416:6
No wonder the people were astonished at such doctrines as Jesus gave
forth, for none could perfectly understand except through the enlightening
influence of the holy Spirit, which was not yet given. R5408:2, 4146:6
They could not expect to get his deepest meaning until after the Master's
ascension. R5088:5, 2456:5
Thus even the disciples understood not his statements of his coming death,
and feared to ask explanations. They were only natural men; none were
begotten of the holy Spirit until Pentecost. R5361:3, 5291:2, 2657:4
The Spirit dispensation began at Pentecost, after our Lord was glorified.
R4908:5, 4593:2, 4146:6, 1962:2; OV407:3
This added to the difficulty of proving his resurrection to still natural
men. It was needful to make this lesson relating to spiritual things so
plain that the least of them might be fully convinced. R666:1; B129; D618;
NS198:1, 655:6
At that time they must be taught spiritual things in a natural manner, in
pantomime. NS198:2
Nor could they understand the times and seasons. B120
Jesus had many things he desired to make known to his disciples, and that
were necessary for them to know, but they could not receive them as yet,
because the holy Spirit had not yet come upon them. R2456:5
They were justified human beings, but not begotten new creatures, thus
Jesus' teachings refer but little to the highest things. Though justified
men, they must be begotten of the Spirit to comprehend spiritual things.
R412:2
Thus there may appear to be, at times, a lack of harmony between the words
of Jesus and those of the apostles. Our Lord addressed those who had not
yet received the spirit of adoption, while the epistles were to the
Church. R954:1*
Thus the choosing of Matthias as an apostle was not a selection by the
Church under the direction of the holy Spirit, for this was before
Pentecost, and the disciples were not recognized of God as the Church.
R1891:5
Jesus was especially alone in the world; even his disciples could not
enter into fellowship with him in respect to spiritual things. R2649:6
Thus, although our Lord proved to his hearers that his pronouncement of
forgiveness was backed by power and authority, he did not explain the how
and why of his conduct, and hence left their questions unanswered. R2584:1
They were still natural men, not fully begotten of the holy Spirit, hence
unprepared to understand spiritual things "for the natural man receiveth
not the things of the spirit of God." (1 Cor. 2:14) R2981:6, 5065:6, 666:2
Thus the dying thief, while having an abundant reward for the words of
comfort spoken to our Redeemer in the hour of his trial, will surely not
be rewarded with a place in the throne. R2788:2
Hence, though their prayers were answered, they could not "worship in
spirit"; neither in "truth," for the truth would only be revealed by the
spirit's guiding them into it. (John 4:23) R2070:2
We are to tell the heavenly things, but not to the natural man. R5065:6
The period from Jesus' baptism to his ascension differs from the period
after Pentecost as the Millennial age differs from the Gospel age. The
consecrated in these two periods, to a considerable degree, walk by sight.
R4908:6, 1962:3
Not yet glorified -- The ascension of our blessed Lord to the right hand
of power signifies his ability to "give gifts unto men." (Eph. 4:8) R1829:5
Being under condemnation, none could be adopted into God's family,
begotten as sons, while they were yet sinners. Our Lord's death could not
benefit them until he ascended to God and presented the price on their
behalf. R2819:2
Until after the ransom price had been made at Calvary and offered in the
Holy of Holies. R2456:5, 5088:5
He went into "the Holy Place" unglorified. HG23:2
He had received his glorious body in the resurrection, as shown in 1 Cor.
15:43, 44; but it remained for him to be honored, and officially receive
divine approval. R2819:2
It was not possible until he had ascended up on high and presented the
merit of that sacrifice on our behalf to the Father; not until it had been
accepted by the Father. R3510:1, 5831:1, 218:4, 182:4; B120
The Pentecostal blessing was of the Father, but by the Son. It was the
Father's recognition of the merit of the sin offering. R1416:3
Referring to the installation into the majesty of power. When the
Scriptures speak of a glorious body, the glory of grandeur of the person
is referred to, and not the glory or power of office. R262:2
The glorification, or instalment in honor and power, should not be
confounded with the change, which occurred at our Lord's resurrection.
Likewise the Church will be given spiritual bodies before sharing his
glory. R2156:5, 169:5*, 168:5*
From the time our Lord ascended up on high until the descent of the holy
Spirit was ten days. R2075:5
The Scriptures speak of the Spirit of God as a special influence coming
from God upon a special class, in a special manner, since a particular
event, and not before that event. R5582:6
Since glorification, the Lamb has been breaking the seven seals (Rev. 5),
thus opening the divine plan before men and angels. We share this
knowledge most because, the last seal having bean broken, the scroll is
open to all. R2156:4
Hence, the holy Spirit poured out upon the Church at Pentecost became a
sure indication that at that time our Lord had been glorified. R2155:6
John 7:40
Many of the people -- How many, how few of the multitude who heard could
gain any reasonable understanding of this message! R3509:5
John 7:43
There was a division -- Some approving and some opposing. R3510:3

Because there is no fellowship between light and darkness, there can be no
peace nor truce between the two. In proportion as the one obtains control,
the other is excluded. R3510:3
With us, too, if we let our light shine, those who love truth will be
attached in proportion as their hearts are sincere; those who love error
will become antagonistic in proportion to their lack of sincerity. R3510:4
John 7:45
The officers -- Representing the Sanhedrin; present in the Temple

amongst the people, charged with finding some fault with our Lord's
teaching and making it the pretext for a measure of insurrection, and
further, the arrest of our Lord. R3510:4
And Pharisees -- What a sad commentary, that the men seeking the
apprehension and death of Jesus were the most influential men in the
holiest nation of earth; Doctors of Law, corresponding in Judaism to
Doctors of Divinity in Christendom now. R3510:5 Why have ye not -- Is it
possible that any man could speak in public and that keen-minded men such
as you would be unable to entrap him so as to form a charge against him in
violation of the Law of Moses or the Law of the Romans? R3510:6
Similarly, the soldiers who came to take him in Gethsemane were
overpowered for a time by the majesty of his presence and obliged to
retreat before him, though he rebuked them neither in word nor act. (John
18:6) R575:3
John 7:46
The officers -- The very men that were commissioned to lay hands on
Jesus and deliver him to death. R646:5
Never man spake -- The man Christ Jesus "holy, harmless, undefiled and
separate from sinners." (Heb. 7:26) R5003:2; E154
The teachings of Jesus has a positiveness quite different from the various
speculations of the scribes. So it is always with the truth. Wherever
there is confusion and mysticism, there is error and ignorance. R5408:2
While recognizing that he was far above their plane, they nevertheless
were drawn to him because he was the burning (warm, glowing and
sympathetic) as well as the shining light. R4967:3, 4675:5
He told the people that God loved them, that he did not despise them even
though they were miserable sinners. R5275:6
They had never before seen one in whom was life: all others whom they had
met, like themselves, were dying creatures, nine-tenths dead. R4107:4
We can reason together with God when we take the voice of his Son and
reject the voices of the "Dark Ages." R3795:3
While our Redeemer's ability to teach came through the anointing of the
holy Spirit, the public knew not of this. His right to teach consisted in
the fact that he could teach, that he could make plain the Word of God.
OV159:1, 151:5
The common people heard Jesus gladly, but did not clearly comprehend his
teachings. Nevertheless, there was something very attractive in the
Master's style, so that they would say this, though not fully
comprehending. R3803:2
They perceived that he was a remarkable character. "All bare him witness
and wondered at the gracious words that proceeded out of his mouth." (Luke
4:22) R4107:4, 3803:2, 1937:2, 1682:2; E154; NS629:2; SM263:1
He had allowed his words and his works to testify for him. R3788:2, 4308:1
However much we appreciate the miracles wrought by our Lord, that which
appeals to us as the most wonderful manifestation is his teaching, his
doctrine. SM263:1
As in John 6, they did not believe, although they recognized Jesus as a
very wonderful personage. R4147:5
Truth, rightly divided and fairly presented, commands the respect, even of
its opponents. Its symmetry and beauty will irresistibly stamp itself upon
the mind. Paul's eloquence was this eloquence of truth; the result of a
thorough understanding and conviction of truth. R646:5
The Lord's people are to set a guard upon their lips that they sin not
with their mouths. (Psa. 39:1) In proportion as this is true, it will also
be true that they will be wiser and more discreet in their language than
others. R3511:1
It should be true with all of the Lord's followers that their speech
should be with grace, well within the limits of reason and righteousness,
and strictly in conformity to the Word of the Lord. R2437:6, 1937:3
It is so easy to say what ought not to be said, to cast reflection upon
the character of another. Let us seek to be more like our Lord in this
particular also--to speak as other men do not speak. R3511:4
"Thou art fairer than the children of men: grace is poured into thy lips."
(Psa. 45:2) SM55:1
Like this man -- Even his opponents recognized him as far beyond the
ordinary of our race. E154
John 7:47
Are ye also deceived? -- Jesus' teaching of the people was weakening the
power of the scribes and Pharisees and of the traditions of the elders.
R5561:2
John 7:48
Have any of the rulers -- The Jewish clerical class--priests, scribes

and Pharisees--represented that system as a whole. Our Lord so recognized
them. He rarely rebuked the people for failure to receive him, but held
responsible the "blind leaders." C168
Pharisees believed -- In accepting their suggestions and blindly
submitting to their leadings, some missed their privilege, and failed to
enter into the blessings of the new dispensation. So it will be with a
similar class in these last days of the Gospel dispensation. D65; HG717:1
The secret of Israel's blindness was that the religious leaders relied so
implicitly upon their interpretations, that they could not regard the
humble Nazarene and his unlearned followers except as imposters. R5926:3
John 7:49
Who knoweth not the law -- Jesus perceived that those who sat in Moses'
seat received not the message, and gave most of his time and attention to
the lower classes who had not heard the invitation to the wedding feast.
(Luke 4:16-22) R342:6, 2438:2
The theory of erroneous religious teachings is that ignorance and
superstition are necessary for the preservation of sacerdotal power. Thus
always has error hated the truth, and darkness hated the light. R5561:2
John 7:50
Nicodemus -- In his heart believing Jesus to be a teacher sent from God,

though doubtful of his being the Messiah. R2437:6
Mentioned three times in connection with our Lord's ministry: here,
visiting Jesus by night (John 3), and in connection with his burial (John
19:39). R4173:6
Carefully excluded later from the trial of Jesus before the Sanhedrin.
R1809:2
Saith unto them -- Defending the officers. R2437:6
Nicodemus cautiously interposed on Jesus' behalf when an attempt was made
to seize the Lord. R4174:1
Being one of them -- Nicodemus, a member of the Sanhedrin. R2437:6,
1809:6
John 7:51
Doth our law judge -- Nicodemus was making a plea for justice. R2437:6
John 7:52
Art thou also -- We should not be content with neutrality in connection

with the truth and its service, but be positive as far as possible, taking
our stand for righteousness and on behalf of the Lord's cause and his
brethren. R4174:1
Out of Galilee -- Even this plea for justice was met with a sarcastic
remark. R2437:6
Ariseth no prophet -- Jonah, a prophet of God, whose prediction at
another time came true (2 Kings 14:25), was from Gath-Hepher, in Galilee,
contradicting the unscrupulous, or else ignorant, Pharisees. R3568:2*
John 7:53
Every man went -- The meeting disbanded, the conspirators angry because
they were foiled in their murderous attempt. R2437:6
Nicodemus was not ready to affirm discipleship. R3485:3
John 8
John 8:2
Early in the morning -- On the day following the eighth or great day of
the Feast of Tabernacles. R2438:3
This ninth day is a solemn day likewise, and is called "The Feast of Joy
for the Law," because on that day the last section of the Law was read.
R2439:1
Another view is that this was part of the discourse of the eighth day.
R2438:6
John 8:7
He that is without sin -- Many who feel it to be their duty to speak

slanderous words of others, if they would but hear the Master saying, "He
that is without fault may speak against his neighbor," would be silenced.
NS401:5
The country would surely be safe from lynchings if those who applied the
instruments of torture would first see to it that they themselves were
wholly without sin. NS401:4
They were all thus convicted of imperfection in some particular
themselves. R3434:4
John 8:11
Neither do I condemn -- It was not by chiding and accusing the apostles,

but because instead our Lord sympathized with them, interpreting their
heart intentions liberally, that they became more and more his faithful
followers. R3434:4
Go and sin no more -- Jesus was not forever blaming the people for not
keeping the Law, but on the contrary, he was continually expressing
sympathy for them in their weakness, and helping them out of them and
encouraging them. R5095:2
John 8:12
I am the light -- Everywhere light stands for truth, for righteousness.

Darkness represents error, superstition, sin. Our Lord Jesus, being in
full harmony with the Father, was the light of the world. R5718:3, 5038:1
Only a few yet recognize him as "the true Light." But eventually he will
"light every man that cometh into the world." (John 1:9) SM560:3
Now, enlightened from his Word, we, as his representatives, are the light
of the world. We should keep our light trimmed and burning. We must let it
shine, that those following us may not walk in darkness. R3243:2
The Spirit of Christ is the light which shines from the true Christian,
which reproves and condemns or opposes the darkness of this world. E293;
R375:2
It is the light of God's truth shining in our hearts, which shines out
upon the world. Thus seen not directly, but by a reflex light through
those who possess it, the spirit operates upon, but not in, the world.
R375:2
The Sun of Righteousness. (Mal. 4:2) R3509:2
His Church are invited to become associated with him as lamp-bearers; and
parts of that great Sun of Righteousness. SM560:3
It matters not that this light was not comprehended and appreciated by the
Jews in the days of his flesh, and that he is not comprehended even today
by the world of mankind; he nevertheless is the true light. R2409:1
Therefore this light was not prior to Jesus Christ. R5105:5; Q66:1
At this Feast of Tabernacles four golden candelabra were in the center of
the court and pious men danced before the people with lighted flambeaux in
their hands, symbolizing the light of the Temple amidst the dark night of
heathendom. This was the setting for Jesus' words. R3509:1*, 2438:6
Another suggestion is, that as this Feast represented Israel's sojourn in
the wilderness, the great light to be followed would probably refer to the
pillar of fire and cloud which led Israel. R2439:2
On the ninth day the custom of the Jews was to take all the books of the
Law out of the chest and to put a candle into it, in allusion to Prov.
6:23 and Psa. 119:105; symbolizing the light of the Law being superseded
by the true light of the Gospel. R2439:1
R1329:2*
Our Lord is spoken of as being a great Light, in the same sense that the
Heavenly Father is called the Father of Lights. (James 1:18) R5338:3
Of the world -- Not merely the light of the Church. NS792:3
He that followeth me -- We should esteem very highly all who may be used
of the Lord as finger posts to point us to the Light, but not to follow
them, except as we discern clearly from the Word that they are closely
following Christ. R2548:5
Walk in darkness -- The reason for so much darkness is that, under
Satan's misleading, those who see the true light to some extent get to
following popes, conferences and confessions of men, instead of following
the Lord. R2548:5
Shall have the light -- Walking in the light is understanding, acting
upon and being in harmony with the divine arrangement, viewing matters as
God views them. R2439:6
Of life -- Plants may live a long time in the dark, though they lose
their foliage and their beauty; but it is wonderful how soon the sun will
revive them and restore their verdure. R860:3*
Jesus' life-giving beams can vivify your soul more speedily than the
natural sun can revive withered plants. R861:1*
John 8:16
I am not alone -- Before Jesus came, God did the work, but since the Son
came, the Father works by him. R52:1*
I and the Father -- Jesus' work and the Father's are one and not
distinct one from the other. R52:4*
John 8:17
Two men -- God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ are two beings, not
one. R802:5*
John 8:19
Nor my Father -- If Joseph had been his father, this would not have been
the fact, for his (supposed) "father and mother" they knew. (John 6:42)
R443:3*
Known my Father -- They who recognized his spirit or mind, and thus knew
him, would also be acquainted with the Father in the same way. T85
John 8:20
His hour -- The type could never pass away until its antitype had come,
and the antitype of the killing of the Passover lamb must occur on its
anniversary, the fourteenth day of Nisan. R2771:6; F481; NS77:5
Not yet come -- Jesus exercised power whereby he walked away from his
enemies. R5563:4
John 8:23
From beneath -- Meaning that he was going to heaven, and that they could
not come to heaven. R2438:5
John 8:28
Ye have lifted up -- Clearly referring to the lifting up on the cross,

not his exaltation to glory. R1054:2, 669:3
Do nothing of myself -- Unlike some who style themselves teachers today,
neither our Lord Jesus nor his apostles attempted to claim originality.
E51 A statement he no longer made after he was risen from the dead. R745:4
John 8:29
For I do -- The secret of Jesus' power with God was in the fact of his
full and complete harmony with the will of God; and this likewise is the
secret of power among all of God's people. R1945:5
We, being imperfect, cannot say this; but, realizing our imperfection, we
can come with humble confessions of our shortcomings and faith in his love
and mercy. Then we are accepted in the beloved One. R1945:6
Because, in Christ, they endeavor to do always those things which please
him, they are able to approximate the sentiment expressed by him when he
said, "I know thou hearest me always." (John 11:42) R1903:1
As with Daniel, where the king properly associated Daniel's faithful
service to God with his hope respecting God's faithfulness to Daniel.
(Dan. 6:20) R2502:3
That please him -- Hence God twice burst heaven open to explain, "This
is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." (Matt. 3:17; 17:5) R84:1*
John 8:30
Many believed -- Our Lord's preaching always produced two opposite

effects upon the promiscuous multitudes that heard him. It attracted one
class and repelled another. R3153:1
Apparently the multitude of those who heard him were so much on his side
that the officers of the Sanhedrin failed to take him; the division of the
people was quite largely in his favor. R3511:2
John 8:31
Then said -- One of our Lord's discourses while at the Feast of

Tabernacles, probably delivered on the last, the great day of the Feast.
R3511:1
To those Jews -- At his first advent our Lord came to the Jewish nation,
which was in covenant relationship with God. To these he granted the first
privilege of becoming sons of God. R5506:3
Which believed on him -- Sinners are not called to discipleship, but are
called to repentance and faith in the Redeemer for the forgiveness of
their sins, justification. R2439:3
It was necessary that he should present the truth to those who were
believing, that it might sift and separate amongst them. R3511:3
Not especially to the twelve apostles, but to the Jews in general who were
sympathetically drawn. Nicodemus may have been one of these. R5506:6
If ye continue -- Continuing under his direction, under the direction of
his Word of truth, faithfully and perseveringly that the grand object of
this school shall be attained. R2440:1
It is a blessed thing to take the first step, acceptance of Christ as our
Redeemer and yielding ourselves fully through him. But the reward of this
step depends entirely upon our continuance in his Word. R5508:1, 3153:3
The idea that we are all right, and sure of the Kingdom because of an
experience we had five, ten, twenty or forty years ago, is a dangerous
one. What is our condition now? R38:5*
Hold on for a little while, you will grasp the situation in due time.
Exercise faith, exercise patience. R5506:6
To study and meditate upon them, to trust implicitly in them, to
faithfully conform our characters to them is the implication. R5508:2,
3153:5
Their blessing would be in proportion as they were faithful to the light
that would come to them. R5506:3
The relationship to Christ is a matter which can be dissolved. R2439:2
A disciple is a pupil, a learner; and when a man ceases to be a student
and pupil of Christ, he is no longer his disciple. R5508:1, 3153:3
In my word -- As distinct from John 17:17, where it is the Word of
Jehovah that sanctifies. Here Jesus says, If you continue in my word, you
will become more and more acquainted with the heavenly Father and his
Word. R5507:1
Then are ye -- As you fully become my disciples you will be granted a
knowledge of the truth. R5506:6
My disciples indeed -- Those who finish their course in the school of
Christ and graduate and become joint-heirs with their Lord, and ultimately
become associated with him in teaching and blessing all the families of
the earth. R2440:1
They were not yet fully his disciples; this discipleship would imply a
desire to hear his message further, and a willingness to obey it at any
cost. R3511:2
Implying a distinction between real and merely nominal disciples. The
hypocrisy of merely nominal discipleship is an abomination to the Lord.
R5508:1, 3153:3
Our Lord associates his Word and doctrine with true discipleship. R3188:4
The school of Christ may be considered a school of self-denial, of
self-sacrifice, prompted by love and maintained by devotion. R2439:3
John 8:32
Ye shall know the truth -- This truth which our Lord gives has various
aspects: first, realizing our enslavement to sin; next, that Jesus died to
cancel its power; third, the time to free the world is the Millennium.
R3512:3
When Pentecost came they were begotten of the holy Spirit. Then they began
to see spiritual things, they were illuminated. R5507:1
Divine truth is found only in the divinely appointed channel--our Lord,
the apostles and the prophets. R5508:2, 3153:5
This idea is compatible with that of heeding all the helps which the Lord
from time to time raises up (Eph. 4:11-15; 1 Cor. 12:13,14); but it is the
duty of each to prove their teaching by the infallible Word. R3153:5
We do not come into the knowledge of the truth at a single bound; but
gradually, step by step, we are led into the truth. R5508:4, 3153:5, 2440:1
We have no commission to set before the household of faith anything which
we do not believe to be truth. R1406:3
Not, Ye shall be "ever learning and never able to come to the knowledge of
the truth." (2 Tim. 3:7) R5508:2, 3153:3
The truth shall -- Many tell us that it makes no difference what we
believe--truth or falsehood--that it is by our works that the Lord will
determine our standing. SM292:2
Where have we found any sect or party which has given special attention to
Scriptural study, to an understanding of the Word of God, to an
application of it to heart and life, with the desire for sanctification?
NS471:2
The truth will mark in their foreheads (Rev. 7:1-3) those who receive it,
branding them in a way that others of mankind are not marked or branded.
R4880:5
Knowledge of truth and of Law was the ground of Jesus' liberty in
denouncing the doctors of divinity in his days as "blind guides," etc.
(Other illustrations from Martin Luther and the Apostle Paul.) R402:1,
310:2
Make you free -- As soon as any measure of truth is received into a good
and honest heart, it begins to strike off the fetters of sin, of
ignorance, superstition and fear. R5508:4, 3153:6
The general effect of the light of truth is to break the shackles of
superstition and to make people independent. R2440:1
The real need of the Church of Christ is still more liberty, until each
member shall stand free and independent of all human bonds, creeds and
confessions. F242; R5144:6
Only the courageous "overcomers" of those bound in the congregational
fetters could even think of bursting the bonds which associate them with
their food supply, their honor of men, and all opportunity they know for
divine service. R5145:1
Let us be free from these awful dogmas of the past, free to love God, to
believe his Word, to trust in and understand how Jesus tasted death for
every man, to believe that he who redeemed will restore. SM33:1
Free from ignorance and supestition, and bold to declare the whole counsel
of God. R1425:2
Not only free from superstitions and ignorance, but also from the service
of sin. R2440:2
Not only made free from the condemnation of the Law Covenant, but made
free from sin and death. R5507:1
This freedom is necessarily incomplete so long as we have this treasure in
an earthen vessel, so long as the new creature must use the imperfect body
of the flesh as its instrument and exponent. R2440:2
Those who make satisfactory progress will have in the resurrection full
deliverance from sin, from all imperfections of the flesh, and from the
flesh itself--through the power of the first resurrection. R5507:4, 2440:2
Made free, too, from the fear that we now see coming upon the whole world
as the great civil and ecclesiastical systems that have so long ruled the
world are being terribly shaken. R5508:5, 3153:6
The more you are getting of the truth, the more you are getting free
indeed. CR14:2
John 8:33
We be Abraham's -- Touch a man's pride and you arouse his whole being.
R3511:3
Were never in bondage -- In this case our Lord's hearers resented the
thought that the truth could make them free. R3511:5
How could they regard him as the Messiah when he spoke thus slightingly of
the Jewish nation and implied that in some sense of the word they were
bondmen? R3511:5
John 8:34
The servant -- And not free. R2440:3

To some freedom and light are apt to bring as much bane as blessing,
leading often to arrogance, self-conceit, unkindness, boastfulness,
combativeness, dissatisfaction and general unhappiness. R2440:2
Bond-servant. R5149:5
To will to do right was present with them but not the ability to perform.
Sin had such a hold in their members that their best intentions were
unable fully to control their words, thoughts and deeds. (Rom. 7:15-23)
R3511:6
Of sin -- Recall the Apostle's expression, "Ye were sold under
sin"--into slavery to sin. (Rom. 7:14) R3511:6
John 8:36
Make you free -- Free from the bondage of sin and death. CR391:6
Free from the terrible bondage to sin, which has become so interwoven with
the very fiber of our being that the process of emancipation must of
necessity be long and painful. R1738:4
Upon certain conditions: (1) a realization of sin and a desire for
reconciliation with God; (2) the renouncement of sin and acceptance of
forgiveness; and (3) a consecration of all to the service of God. NS668:5
If, freed from sin and condemnation to death, one intentionally returns to
sin willfully and persistently, he loses this liberty and becomes again a
slave to sin and a subject to death--second death. NS668:6
Having been tied with cords of vanity and enslaved to sin with a cartrope
(Isa. 5:18), the sinner often rejoices and seeks pleasure in his slavery,
knowing not the only One who can secure liberty. R3893:5
It was the divine purpose that all enjoy liberty under the limitations of
righteousness, of respect for divine law, and mutual love and respect for
the liberty of fellow-creatures. R1737:2
Freedom to cast off all restraints of God and man, to pursue a selfish
course without regard to obligations to God and the rights of others,
leads only to riot, anarchy and destruction. R1737:2
To fully emancipate all the slaves of sin and death will require the full
thousand years of Christ's promised reign on earth. When sin and Satan
will be destroyed men can be entrusted with the boon of liberty. R1737:6
Now liberty to one class of men brings slavery to another. R1738:1
Ye shall -- Not the world nor nominal Christians, but merely those who
come into special relationship to Christ by faith and consecration during
this age. NS668:5
Free indeed -- For he is made free by the truth. R1658:5
The truths of the Scriptures induce individual liberty amongst Christian
people, enabling them to rise above sectarian limitations to a clearer
knowledge of God, and a fuller degree of separation from the world, its
spirit and methods. NS389:6
In the same way, when a man is sick, he must give up his will and personal
liberty to the physician who undertakes to restore his health. R1738:4
Freedom from the condemnation of sin; freedom from the bondage of fear
concerning the future; and daily, as we submit ourselves to Christ, more
and more released from the hereditary bondage of sin. R1738:6
Released entirely from both the law given in Eden and that given at Sinai.
R1726:2, 970:6
Freed from the service of sin that we might become the bond-servants of
another, even Christ. R5356:3, 3512:5
Reckoned free--free from sin and its condemnation, death, the
righteousness of Christ being imputed unto them by faith. R1738:3
Before we can fully realize the actual liberty which God designed for all
his sons, we must first become the willing servants of a new master,
Christ, in order that he may accomplish our deliverance. R1738:4
The true teacher's place, and the true Bible student's place, is outside
of all human bondage, free to examine and feed upon all portions of the
good Word of God, and untrammeled to follow the Lamb whithersoever he
leads. C145
Those who are bound by love of human approbation, and fear of the
consequences of a public, bold advocacy of the Lord and his truth are not
worthy of him. R2421:3
Escaped from slavery, being justified by faith in the precious blood of
Christ. R3956:2, 3512:5
The Scriptures ascribe no sin to the new mind, and no perfection to our
fallen flesh. R2440:3
But we should be on guard lest we use our liberty in such a manner as to
stumble others weaker than ourselves. R4920:1
Those who seek to use liberty for themselves, who boast that they have a
mind and will of their own, know not how dangerous is their position, that
surely they will succumb to the ensnarements of sin. R3512:6
No other religious system teaches personal liberty to the degree that it
is taught in the Bible. The essence of all human religion seems to be
bondage to custom by ignorance, superstition and priestcraft. R4005:1
John 8:38
With my Father -- Our Lord Jesus was and still is the Great Teacher of
men by the appointment of the Heavenly Father, the great Master Teacher
above all. E50
John 8:39
Abraham is our father -- God's special promises and dealings with the
"fathers," through pride and selfishness, they failed rightly to apprehend
and use. R2604:6
If ye were -- Not all the natural descendants of Abraham are to be heirs
with him of the promise, but only such as Abraham would be honored in
owning as sons--such as partake of his spirit or disposition. R4071:6
John 8:40
Told you the truth -- The truths which Abraham could not tell, because
Jesus was proffering them assistances which their relationship to Abraham
could not secure aside from him. R3512:1
John 8:41
Not born of fornication -- They knew that Jesus was not the son of
Joseph, and this was the evident purport of this sneer. R2424:6
John 8:42
Proceeded forth -- A father is a life-giver. A son is an offspring, one

who receives life from the father. This distinction implies that the
father existed first. R5747:3, 3861:5
The terms "Father" and "Son" imply this; otherwise these terms are
meaningless. R2408:5
Came from God -- Being merely developed and nourished in Mary. E105
Therefore our Lord never regarded himself as one of the "children of
wrath." (Eph. 2:3) E108
John 8:43
Not understand -- The sore or bruised head (Gen. 3:15), we understand to

represent the thinking part. Those whom Satan corrupts are injured in the
head. R192:3*
John 8:44
Ye -- Pharisees. R5462:2
Are of -- His tools and dupes, because his work they do. HG365:6; R1217:4
Not that they were utterly devoid of every moral principle, but they were
under the control of evil in the main as is the large majority of mankind
today. R761:2
When our first parents sinned they forfeited fellowship with God, and
because of disobedience became children of the Adversary. R5038:1
Your father the devil -- The Israelites were fatherless in the sense
that they had denied the Heavenly Father; the Creator, and had become
children of the Adversary. R4811:2
Originally our race was recognized as related to Jehovah, but the
relationship was broken by man's willful disobedience, so that none are
recognized as sons of God today without being begotten again. R3269:2
Satan is another name for sin, which is personified as a great monarch
holding relentless sway over mankind. Satan properly stands as the
representative of sin, of all unrighteousness. R5356:1
They became children of Satan in the sense that they became obedient to
him. He did not give life actually to the world, but they adopted him as
their father by accepting his terms and becoming members of his family.
R5623:6
Since men's minds ceased to be godly, and became carnal and devilish, they
might be said to have been reconstructed by the tyrant Sin to bear much of
the image of God's adversary: sons of the devil, bearing his moral
likeness. R1005:5
Satan is the corruptor of the human race, and those whom he corrupts are
called his children. R192:3*
The Apostle declares that Satan now works in the hearts of the children of
disobedience (Eph. 2:2); who certainly are vastly in the majority. SM310:2
The image of God has largely given place to the image of Satan. R3773:6
The world, not having the spirit of God, but more the spirit of the
Adversary, are walking in the way of slander and hypocrisy. R5462:2
Our position as Gentiles is as "children of wrath even as
others"--strangers and aliens and foreigners--without God and having no
hope in the world. (Eph. 2:3,19,12). R3365:6
Only those who have "escaped the condemnation that is in the world" (2
Pet. 1:4), and who have gotten back into harmony with God, through Christ,
are Scripturally authorized to consider themselves the sons of God. E108
Some dogs are better born than some of Adam's race; and some with better
dispositions--more of meekness, gentleness, patience and love and less of
anger, hatred and strife. R3774:1
All along it was true that some children of Jacob, professedly children of
God, were really of their father the devil, because they were not all
Israelites that were of the nation of Israel. (Rom. 9:6) R4781:3
In opposition to the thought that there is no personal devil. R3165:6
In opposition to the concept of the "Fatherhood of God and brotherhood of
man." R3269:2, 2323:6; SM268:1
In opposition to the thought that "humanity was naturally in Christ."
R3457:6
What Jesus said of some in his day must be applicable in what today is
styled Christendom. OV385:3
He was a murderer -- He murdered our race by his deception. He did not
tell the truth, but he misrepresented it. R5238:3
Indirectly, he is the murderer of the 20 billion of our race who have
already gone down into the tomb. SM575:1
Though, like many another murderer, he had not probably intended to commit
murder at first, but only robbery. R2839:6
He intended the murder of the race, and he was successful. R822:1*
Errors and principles are not murderers and liars. It would be a misuse of
language to make such application. Only an intelligent being can be a
murderer or a liar. R5209:6
He did a killing thing, he told a murderous lie, when he said, "Thou shalt
not surely die." (Gen. 3:4) R433:1*; HG192:2; NS549:4
He lied to our first parents, and through that deception he brought them
under the divine death sentence. Thus Satan is the murderer of the entire
race. SM96:T; R910:5
By his misrepresentations, not only he become the "prince of this world"
(the present order of things), but additionally, he became the murderer of
the race. HG593:6; SM548:1
He "murdered" our first parents that he might gain control over them--the
object of his ambition. R5186:2, 2777:3; OV303:3
Some ministers murder in a spiritual sense the people under their care by
taking from them their spark of faith and spirit-begetting; and doing it
as did the great Adversary, by lies and contradictions of the Lord's Word.
SM301:1 It was the spirit of Satan that entered into Cain, taking the
place of the spirit or disposition of the Lord. Satan's spirit in Cain was
a murderous spirit. R3928:4
According to the Christian standard, slanderers are murderers. Thus seen,
the very suggestion to slander is to be shunned, as of the spirit of
Satan. R3595:4
All haters are murderers. R3928:4
The final penalty for Satan and his angels is to be quite appropriate for
them--fire, the fire of God's anger, the fire of God's opposition. SM231:T
From the beginning -- Certainly not from the beginning of his own
existence, for every creation coming from God's hand is perfect; nor can
we think of any other beginning referred to than man's beginning in Eden.
R1678:1, 5909:3, 5801:1; F612
It does not appear that Satan had any sympathizers or associate
conspirators amongst the angels at the time of his secession. F612
No truth in him -- Satan is the great deceiver. R5909:3
He is a liar -- And thereby the slayer of our race. R910:5
In Eden God declared, "Ye shall surely die." (Gen. 2:17) It was Satan who
declared, "Ye shall not surely die." (Gen. 3:4) Heathens, as well as
Christians, have accepted Satan's lie and correspondingly rejected God's
truth. R4551:5, 4792:1; HG513:1
Satan contradicted God point blank, by telling mother Eve that she would
not die by partaking of the forbidden fruit. CR426:1; R4627:5
And he has since kept it up, and the sophistries used to back it up are
truly wonderful, and worthy of such a master deceiver. R910:5; F616
The Devil has succeeded in keeping up this lie for so long a time, and
today nearly all the world believes what he said. R171:1*
Christian Science, Theosophy, together with the evolutionary and
anti-Biblical theories, all bear the distinctive marks of the "father of
lies." They all declare man to be immortal. R5800:6
Scientists, our own senses, and the Word of God, all agree that the dead
are dead; and not alive, as Satan, and all his emissaries would have us
believe. Q765:4
If Satan had turned from his iniquity, then no doubt God would have found
some way, even in Satan's case, by which he might come back to God. Q322:1
Father of it -- Satan told the first lie, "Ye shall not surely die."
(Gen. 3:4) Q799:2
The father of lies. R4551:5; CR425:6
John 8:51
If a man keep -- But if any "fall away" after having the full benefits
of this great favor, they "see death." As they reach the tomb "they
perish." (Heb. 6:4-6; 1 Cor. 15:18) R875:6*
Never see death -- He may fall asleep, but he will be sure to be
awakened, and if then he shall keep the Word of the Lord, he shall have
everlasting life. Q208:2
The Church are "asleep" and have not "perished." (1 Cor. 15:18) They have
escaped from the condemnation and will be fully released (Rom. 5:18; 8:1)
at once when their Head assumes control. R875:6*
John 8:53
Art thou greater -- Jesus was then as much better and greater than they
as the divine nature is superior to the human. R218:3
John 8:54
My Father -- Jesus calls Abraham their father, and God his Father. R218:3
John 8:56
Rejoiced -- He did not see God's plan clearly, as we see it, but he saw
enough of it to make him rejoice. R5433:2 To see -- Not with his natural
eye, but with the eye of faith. R5433:2
My day -- He may have seen his day of sacrifice, typified in the
offering of Isaac his only son, but at all events he saw Messiah's coming
glory- day, the Millennium. E90
The day of Christ--the Millennium. R5905:5, 3937:1
The day in which Christ, who has died for all men, will uplift the human
family. R5433:2
Abraham believed that God was able to raise the dead, so much so that when
he was tested he was willing even to part with Isaac, accounting that God
was able to raise him from death. (Heb. 11:19) F110
The Bible mentions days of various lengths. R5139:3, 2836:1
He saw it -- By the eye of faith. By the same eye Abraham saw the
millions of Adam's race blessed of God by the Messiah, his Seed, during
the Millennium. R5905:5, 5433:2, 4387:4
By going out to the unknown land and offering his son Isaac, Abraham
grasped the future, seeing Christ and the heavenly country. R74:2*
John 8:58
I am -- Signifying that there had been no cessation of his existence at

any time; positively identifying Jesus, the Son of God, in the flesh, with
the Logos, the first-born of all creation. E90
The Scriptures no place intimate that the existence of the Only Begotten
ever ceased from the time it began until it ceased at Calvary for three
days. E90
Originally he was on the spirit plane. Later as a man, he lived; he died.
At his resurrection he was made alive on the spirit plane. But the
identity, the personality, is the same. R5065:2, 1263:2*
Since his humanity resulted from the transference of the life- principle
from spiritual to human conditions, Jesus recognized himself. The "I am"
expresses his continuous existence. R1059:3
The Logos could be translated to a lower condition, the human, and yet
could preserve a good recollection of his previous experiences, and did
so. R2477:4
It was his knowledge of heavenly things, his intimate and long
acquaintance with the Father, which enabled him, as a perfect man, to
overcome the world and present an acceptable sacrifice for our sins.
R1060:1
The memory of things past is still with our Lord. He remembers the
experiences which he had in the flesh, and also those which he had before
he became flesh. Otherwise he could not identify himself. R5065:5
We have no reason to doubt that at the age of twelve his memory was
active, and that he knew then what he here affirms. R1916:5, 1682:5
Nothing in this text implies that our Lord was born with the knowledge of
all his previous experiences. After his consecration he received this
knowledge by some means which we can not understand. R5065:5
Whatever others may think or say of him, he claimed to be sent of God, and
of heavenly origin. R1059:2
By induction he tells of a pre-human existence. R5767:5, 4964:2, 1161:4,
505:2*; OV328:5; SM491:4
John 9
John 9:1
As Jesus passed by -- Our Lord was in Jerusalem on the occasion of the

Feast of the Tabernacles, in the fall of the third year of his
ministry--just six months before his crucifixion. R4148:2
He saw a man -- Sitting by the wayside soliciting alms, especially at
that season of the year, when the crowds gathered for worship and were apt
to feel benevolent. R4148:2
The blind man would fitly represent the world of mankind in general, who
during the present life are mentally blind. R2670:1
Blind from his birth -- Few now have the ability to see or hear. The
majority are blind and deaf to his message, some completely blind and
completely deaf, others partially so. R3519:4
Some of us were born blind--blind to the Lord and his true character,
blind to the truth of the divine Word. The blindness upon us was neither
our own fault nor the fault of our parents. R4150:2, 3520:5
This blindness does not represent a blindness on the part of those who
have once seen God's grace, represented in his Word and plan, and who have
then become blind thereto. R2670:1
Tabulated information shows that in 1870 the proportion of blind in
America was one in 1900; in Egypt one to every 100; and Palestine probably
one in every 200. R2667:3
At Gaza it is said that one-third of the population have lost one or both
eyes, but amongst these cases it is difficult to find any born blind.
R2667:6
This blindness is in great measure the result of the scarcity of water and
the neglect of children, whose eyes are, in consequence, attacked by the
flies. R2667:6
Showing the fallacy of the idea of Christian Science that there is no such
thing as sickness or blindness, but they are simply mistaken thoughts or
misbeliefs. R2669:2
John 9:2
His disciples asked -- It is proper, when we find ourselves in sickness,

that we examine to what extent we have been responsible through careless
living. If so, it is well that we repent and take steps to make
correction. R4148:6, 2668:6
If we cannot find that our experiences and sickness was the result of
self-gratification, we should examine carefully if they resulted from our
activity in the Lord's service. If so, we should glory in them. R4149:1,
1773:3
Finding none of the above to fit the case, we should consider that our
affliction is simply for our welfare, to assist us in the application of
some valuable spiritual lesson. R4149:2, 2668:6
Who did sin -- The question of the Lord's disciples was the expression
of a common opinion among many Jews--that all suffering is the direct
result of some personal sin. R1773:3
They had the thought that all sickness, pain and sorrow in the world was
the result of sin. The Scriptures indicated that the various evils were,
to some degree, the result of individual or inherited sin. R3519:1, 2668:4
While it is true that some afflictions are the direct results of personal
sins and are promptly administered penalties designed for the warning and
correction of the offender, such is not always the case. R1773:3
There is a great difference between claiming that all sickness is of sin
and the devil, and admitting that much of it is produced or intensified by
sin. R2668:4
This man -- The man could not have sinned before birth; but it is barely
possible that some of the heathen ideas respecting the transmigration of
souls had come to their attention. R4148:3, 3519:1, 2668:1
It would be extremely unlikely that the apostles, "unlearned," should have
any particular knowledge of these theories of the heathen. R3519:1
Job's case is another illustration of sickness and calamities of various
kinds which were not the punishments of sin. R2668:5, 1773:3
John 9:3
Neither hath -- Not that he and his parents were without blemish;
evidently meaning that it was not because of any special sin committed by
this man or his parents that he had been born blind. R4148:3, 3519:2
Nor his parents -- The principal point of this lesson is that calamities
are not necessarily marks of divine disapproval. R4148:6, 2668:4
Not that God had specially intervened to cause blindness in this case,
rather we may suppose that the blindness came through the general weakness
of heredity. R3519:2
The Scriptures tell us that the darkness or blindness came from the
Adversary, who blinds the minds of them who believe not, lest the glorious
light of God's goodness shine in their hearts. (2 Cor. 4:4) R3520:6
The blindness that is upon the world is, to a large extent at least, a
matter of heredity. R2670:1
Be made manifest -- The miracle gave unmistakable evidence of divine
power manifested through Christ, and was a testimony to the truth of his
claim to the Messiahship. R2058:1*, 1773:3
John 9:4
I must work -- It behooved the Lord and all the members of his body to
make use of the opportunities in hand for doing that portion of the
Father's work which is to be accomplished in the present age. R1774:1
Let us each do with our might what our Master has placed within our reach;
and let us do it promptly and zealously, remembering the nearness of the
night. R1746:5, 1591:5
The works of him -- The works of God were not merely in the healing of
one of the blind, but the manifestation of Jesus as the Light of the World
and the influence and testing which that would mean to the Jewish people.
R4149:2
We are not laboring for ourselves, but for the cause of the Lord,
including the cause of all that are his. CR17:3
The work of him that sent him was the sacrificing of himself in the
declaration of the good tidings, in the teaching of the people through
parables, dark sayings and miracles. R3519:5
The Lord's people are eager to do good, but in the way that will be the
most effective, and in the way that will not stumble others. Their good
works are the works of God. R5462:2
While it is day -- The present little season before the storm-cloud
bursts upon the world is a most favorable time for the work of the Elijah
class, and corresponds to the successful days of both Elijah and John. B257
Since our Lord's first advent the glorious light of truth has had more
effect upon the world than at any previous time. So much so, that the
Gospel age may be called "day" in contrast with previous experiences.
R5097:3
The light now shining more closely resembles that which shone upon the
early Church, and in both instances it is the light of the parousia, the
light of the presence of the Son of Man. R4149:4
Our Lord's ministry was in the eventide which followed the Jewish day, the
day of Moses. A little of its light still remained. R3519:5
Our Lord's day and opportunity were rapidly drawing to a close. R4149:2
Similarly, with each one of the Lord's followers their is a daytime of
opportunity when his time, talent and zeal may bring fruitage to the
Lord's praise. To each will come a night when the opportunities will pass
as he passes into death. R4149:3
The word "day" would seem to belong to the present time. R2670:2
While the eyes and ears of the masses are open. R5559:5
The night cometh -- He well knew of the dark night which would follow
his ministry, in which darkness would cover the earth and gross darkness
the people. (Isa. 60:2) R3519:5
The apostles after Pentecost entered fully into the Master's spirit in
respect to the shortness of time, laboring incessantly with the Jews until
all the elect had been gathered from the once favored nation. R3519:6
A much darker time in comparison with the present, called day. B257
Even in this morning of dawning light we are to expect another time of
deep darkness; a night time, an overcasting of the skies, a great morning
storm. R4149:4, 3519:6
We may expect not only to see the storm-clouds grow much darker, but also
to hear and to feel the rising "winds" which will culminate in a wild
hurricane of human passion--a whirlwind of trouble. C230
When the religious liberty now enjoyed will be greatly restricted and
when, as a consequence, the present work of disseminating the truth will
be interfered with by the strong hand of combined civil and ecclesiastical
power. R1409:1 Brought about by the wrath incurred by the true Church.
R1754:5
"The morning cometh, and also the night." (Isa. 21:12) R1409:1
When the world, that has loved darkness rather than light, shall be
overwhelmed by it, and in the midst of its shadows, reap the fruit of its
own sowing. R1774:1
The opportunities for service will soon now be closed. The great time of
trouble just preceding the shining forth of the Sun of Righteousness is
near. R3521:1, 3332:1
As a snare, it shall overtake the world. D273
The gloom of that "night" will be dispelled only by the Millennial
sunrise. C230 Typified by the imprisonment of John the Baptist. R1754:5
"The sun and the moon [the illuminating influences of the Gospel and Law]
shall be dark [general infidelity having become widely prevalent], and the
stars [apostolic lights] shall withdraw their shining." (Joel 2:10) D544
No man can work -- Except those who worship the beast and his image.
(Rev. 13:16,17) R1002:6
Our work will be cut short--gradually at first, and then completely and
finally. C230
When our opportunities for serving the cause and the brethren and for the
public dissemination of the truth will be forcibly closed by the powers
that be. R4149:4
The closing of the "door" in the parable of Matt. 25, marks the end of all
opportunity to prove worthy of the prize by faithfulness: all opportunity
for service will there terminate. C213
The warning is designed to increase diligence in the use of present
The Millennial morning comes, and just as surely the great time of trouble
will immediately precede it--the night wherein no man can labor for the
dissemination of divine truth. R4926:2, 3332:1, 1409:1
"The time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine." (2 Tim.
4:3) R948:2
John 9:5
I am the light -- His light shone for another six months, but he left
behind him some who were illuminated by the Pentecostal blessing. Of these
he said, "Ye are the light of the world." (Matt. 5:14) R4149:4
Now, enlightened from his Word, we, as his representatives, are the light
of the world. We should keep our light trimmed and burning. We must let it
shine so that those following us may not walk in darkness. R3243:2
Our Lord let his light shine upon many, and so we have opportunity to let
our light shine upon many. But no one has the light within him except he
is begotten of the holy Spirit. R4149:5
The Spirit of Christ is the light which shines from the true Christian,
which reproves or condemns and opposes the darkness of this world. R375:2;
E293
Of the world -- It will be at his second advent that our Lord will be
"the Light of the world" in the full, glorious sense--The Sun of
John 9:6
He spat -- As the blindness of the man was figurative of the general

blindness upon the people--to the truth, to the Light of the world--so
this method of healing the blindness well illustrates the method the Lord
has been using throughout the Gospel age. R3520:2, 2669:6
Made clay -- The making of the clay would represent the formation of the
elect Church for the blessing of the poor, blind world. R2670:4
We are imperfect ourselves, blemished, fallen; but the spirit of the
Lord's lips coming upon us so transforms our energies and talents as to
make them useful in his service. R3520:2
The ointment had no particular virtue in it, neither had the waters used.
It was merely an aid to the blind man's faith, but did not in his mind
perform the cure. He recognized that it was a miracle, as did the
Pharisees. R4149:6, 1774:1
Of the spittle -- The secretions of our Lord's mouth represent his grace
and truth, while the earth used may well represent the poor earthly
talents of us and his disciples. R3520:2, 2670:2 He took of the clay of
human agency and mixed it with his Word, the fruit of his lips. With that
combination he anointed the eyes of our understanding and bade us wash in
the waters of Siloam, his Word of truth and grace. R4150:3
So now, the words of his mouth, mixed with and used through the clay of
humanity, may have been the agency in the opening of your spiritual
perceptions to understand the truth and see its beauties. R213:3
He uttered the truth, brought it in contact with the dust of the
earth--not in contact with all the dust, but with a limited portion, an
elect portion, and of this he made the anointing clay. R2670:2
The Word of God's grace is designed in the present age to act upon a small
fragment of humanity, and to consecrate them for the Master's use in the
anointing of the eyes of the blind. R2670:2
John 9:7
Go wash -- After the Lord has used us, his servants, as the clay in his
hands for the anointing of blinded eyes, it is necessary that we should
direct them to the fountain of his truth and grace where they may wash.
R3520:2
The washing of his eyes and the cure would seem to belong to the next age,
The world must be witnessed to during this age, but will not have the eyes
of their understanding opened until the great washing time of the
The pool of Siloam -- The word Siloam signifies "The sending forth," or
"The fountain." R2670:4
"In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David for
sin and for uncleanness." (Zech. 13:1) R2670:4
He went -- Implying some assistance from the blind man. Faith was first
followed by works and this attested a degree of perfection. R4149:5
Had he had no confidence in Jesus he might have despised the means and
ridiculed the idea that the anointing with clay and the washing in the
pool of Siloam would accomplish such a miracle. R1774:4
An act based doubtless upon what he had heard of Jesus previously. R2058:1
Came seeing -- The opening of blind natural eyes could not give sight to
the eyes of his understanding, the eyes of the heart; but it could and did
figure or illustrate this. R3519:4
Thus washing we realized the forgiveness of sins and saw in a new light
the love and mercy of our Father in heaven. Then came testings, not to
destroy us, but to prove us and to develop us. R3520:6
Only a sample of the great work of restitution to be performed in the
Millennial age when not only will the bodies of men be blessed, but their
minds and hearts similarly liberated from the fetters of sin. R1773:6
The methods of restitution will doubtless be as varied as were the methods
employed by Jesus in healing diseases at his first advent. R759:3
Our Lord did not heal all of the blind; the recorded instances are just
six. R4148:2
This lesson differs from the five other instances in that this man was
born blind. R2667:6
While multitudes were healed, still greater multitudes remained unhealed.
R3519:4
If it had been our Lord's special mission to heal all the lepers and all
the blind and all the deaf, and to have awakened all the dead of
Palestine, then he failed most signally in accomplishing the work. R3519:4
John 9:8
The neighbours -- The agencies used by our Lord for our blessing were
produced perhaps by our friends. R3520:6
John 9:13
Brought to the Pharisees -- This was a part of our Lord's design and a
part of what he meant when he declared that the man was not born blind as
a punishment for sin, but for the glory of God. R3520:3
John 9:15
The Pharisees also asked -- Full of envy against Jesus. R3520:3

Lest the matter should spread, and, if possible to corner it and head it
off, they made an investigation. R4149:6
The scribes and Pharisees of our day wonder, criticize and try to account
for the blessing which has come to us, finding fault with every agency the
Lord used in connection with our blessing. R4150:3
John 9:22
Be put out -- Be counted unworthy of the name and privileges of a Jew,

treated as an outcast from God and his people. R3520:3, 4149:6
This was the only "respectable church" in those days, and to the poor Jew
it seemed disgraceful to be cut off from the church. R213:5
So now, those who receive present truth have so long been identified with
the churches that the thought of sundering those ties is like cutting off
a right hand. R213:5
All through the Dark Ages those who were faithful to the light were kept
out of the churches. The church creeds and practices were
conscience-barriers to keep light-bearers out. R5479:2
John 9:24
They -- The Pharisees. R4150:1

Give God the praise -- The time of the healing of the world's blindness
is in the Millennial age. R2670:1
Turning to the healed man, the Pharisee said to him, Thank God for your
sight, even though it came through a bad channel, for we know that Jesus
is a sinner, a hypocrite, a falsifier in claiming to be Messiah. R4150:1
John 9:25
He answered -- He might have kept quiet and believed in his heart and
retained his standing in the church, but that would have been cowardly,
and had he done so he would have missed his subsequent communion with
Jesus. R213:6
It remains with us, as it did with him, to keep silence and remain in the
church, or confess his presence and be cast out. R213:6
John 9:27
He answered them -- It is for us now to take a similar stand--to confess

the truth, confess the light, confess the miracle which the Lord has
wrought upon the eyes of our understanding, and to give him our hearts.
R4150:4
Ye did not hear -- As they repeated their questions, he became more
indignant at their evil spirit. R3520:4
John 9:30
A marvelous thing -- Envy, hatred and the spirit of rivalry were absent
from his mind, and wonder and gratitude prompted him to reason out the
logical deductions from this marvelous fact. R2058:1*
John 9:31
Heareth not sinners -- Consequently we, who by nature were sinners even
as others, could have no audience with Jehovah until justified by faith in
the sin-offering of Jesus, our Lord. R1410:4
Christ is the way, the truth, and the life, and no man cometh unto the
Father but by him. (John 14:6) Prayer is the privilege of "believers,"
reconciled children of God, only. R2024:4
The habit of inviting people who are out of covenant-relationship with God
to pray is both unscriptural and unreasonable. Those who come to him
through Christ are acceptable only because Jesus is their Advocate. R5021:6
It is to no purpose to be a saint in the morning in thy closet, and then a
sinner all day in the world. Having prayed against sin, be sure to watch
against it. R585:3*
There is a significance to the words so often sung, "Come to Jesus." God
"heareth not sinners," but Jesus does. He says, "Come unto me all ye that
labor and are heavy laden [with sin], and I will give you rest." (Matt.
11:28) R469:1*
John 9:34
Cast him out -- Consider yourself an outcast from the religious people
of your own nation. R4150:2
The threat of ostracism was before our mind as we had confessed the
blessing we had received and the source from which it came. R3520:6
All who follow the noble course of loyalty and obedience to God have found
that, while it leads to a loss of fellowship in the nominal church, it
leads also to greater fellowship with the Lord himself. R2670:5
It is for us to find that this will lead men to separate us from their
company. R4150:4
As the Lord and the apostles shunned not to declare the whole counsel of
God, they soon found little and finally no opportunity to teach the people
in the synagogues. R986:5, 805:3
John 9:35
Jesus heard -- So with you, the Lord will hear of your witness for him.
R214:1
When he had found him -- He did not spare him from being cast out of the
synagogue, but turned the same into a special blessing of instruction of
much advantage to the man in every way. R4150:2
It was after we had endured something for the Lord's sake that the Lord
found us in a particular sense, revealed himself to us, and thus we became
his disciples in the highest sense. R3520:6, 1774:4
His faithfulness under trials and difficulties, and his willingness to
suffer the loss of earthly fellowship, led directly to a still greater
blessing, even direct fellowship and communion with the Lord himself.
R2670:5
On the Son of God -- The belief that Jesus, the Son of Man, was also the
Christ, the Son of the living God, lies at the very foundation of
Christianity--on it the Church was to be built. R944:4*
John 9:37
And Jesus said -- When you are separated from the nominal church, your
experience will be that Jesus himself will teach you. R214:1
Seen him -- The Lord granted him the opening of the eyes of his
understanding in addition to the opening of his natural eyes. R3520:5,
2669:1
John 9:38
I believe -- This ignorant beggar was evidently at heart honest and

sincere, because character and principle cannot be put on in a moment, but
is the result of development. R3520:4
And he worshipped -- In spirit and in truth, and no longer worshipped
the creeds of men. R214:1
In many instances the Lord's people, looking back, can clearly see that
things which at the time seemed to be adversities were really blessings,
leading to the opening of their eyes of understanding. R2669:2
John 9:39
For judgment -- Greek, krima. Its strongest significance is condemnation

or rejection. R699:6
A trial. R214:1
Messages of divine truth are the oracles of God and the principles of his
holy law by which every man must be judged as worthy or unworthy of
eternal life. R2057:5*
The judgment in the case of the Lord's consecrated people culminates with
the present life, and in the case of the world it will culminate in the
world to come. R2058:5*
There was the natural judgment of Israel, so also upon the nominal
spiritual Israel, the nations of Christendom, the judgment of God is also
to blindness and an overthrow in a great time of trouble. R2058:5*
I am come -- It was to establish the principles of judgment, and to
acquaint men with them, as well as to redeem them, that Jesus came into
this world. R2057:6*
Might see -- The authority of truth was received and appreciated, and
from its blessed testimony were drawn the precious lessons of faith.
R2058:4*
And that they -- The same truth which blinded one, enlightened and
blessed the other. R2058:4*
Be made blind -- The blind sectarians who retained control of the
synagogues were the more blinded by their prejudices. R805:3
The authority of truth was despised and its light rejected, the darkness
being preferred because their deeds were evil. (John 3:19) R2058:2*
John 9:40
Are we blind also? -- The theological pride of the Pharisees,

representing some of their successors in spiritual Israel who are
spiritually proud. R4150:4
Let us not be high-minded but fear lest the light should pass from us,
lest pride of heart, the cares of this world or the deceitfulness of
riches should again blind us to the goodness and grace of God in Christ.
(Matt. 13:22) R3475:4
John 9:41
If ye were blind -- It would have been better for them if they had been
blind, if their course had been actuated by total ignorance. R4150:5
Your sin remaineth -- If you (Pharisees) were totally blind, you would
not have been responsible. But now you admit that you see some; therefore
you have sin. R723:6
They had considerable enlightenment and therefore corresponding
responsibility. R4150:5, 723:6
John 10
John 10:1
I say unto you -- It was doubtless as a reproof of the false

shepherding, which our Lord spoke of in the previous chapter, that he
spoke this parable. R2441:1
By the door -- Our Lord Jesus, as the "Shepherd," by fulfilling the
terms of the Law Covenant, entered the "door" and secured all the
blessings and privileges which had been promised in the Law. Q845:3
The one way of approach to the Father during the Gospel age is repentance
of sin, turning from it, acceptance of the merit of Christ, and a
consecration to the Lord to walk in the footsteps of Jesus. NS411:5
The sheepfold -- The homeland of the Lord's sheep of this Gospel age is
heaven itself, and his bringing them to it will mean their resurrection
change. R5694:1; NS412:5
Jehovah established a typical kingdom or sheepfold, and accepted the
nation of Israel as his sheep. He fenced them in with a Law Covenant.
R2441:4
The sheepfold was the Law Covenant arrangement under which Israel was
placed at Sinai. R4732:2, 2672:1
The fold described in the parable is a place of safety, rest, and
protection from prowling wild beasts and from robbers. R4157:2, 4732:2
It is contrary to the will of the great Chief Shepherd that his sheep
should be separated from each other by pens, and hindered from the proper
liberties of the fold. R3142:2
Those who enjoy its security, enjoy also its liberty. It has one, and only
one, wall to keep out the "wolves." This wall is faith in Christ as man's
ransom-sacrifice. R3142:2
Let us stand fast in that liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free;
allowing none to pen us up by human creeds; nor any to lead us beyond the
Chief Shepherd's bounds, into unauthorized liberties and speculations.
(Gal. 5:1) R3143:1
Some other way -- Than that of keeping the divine Law and purchasing the
sheep. R2673:3
By a hypocritical observance of the letter of the Law, rather than by a
heart observance and fulfillment of the spirit of the Law. Q845:3
By climbing over the Law, or by digging under it. R2441:5
Than that which God has appointed, through faith in the atoning sacrifice
of Christ. R1647:6, 1582:3, 1442:2; NS411:5
There is "none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be
saved" (Acts 4:12) than Jesus, and the way he opened up when he "gave
himself a ransom for all." (1Tim. 2:6) R688:4
So-called Christian Science and the various no-ransom Evolution theories
all are attempts to show men how to climb up to everlasting life by some
other way than faith in the precious blood of Christ. R3199:5, 2672:6,
1647:5
Whatever theory does not square with the ransom for all, absolutely and in
every particular, is proven to be a false one. R1719:4
A thief -- Referring to those who attempted fraudulently to palm
themselves off on the Jewish people as their leader. These are
particularly referred to by Gamaliel in Acts 5:35-38. R4732:6
Various others presented themselves as the Messiah, falsely claiming the
right to lead Israel--false Messiahs. R2441:4
Pretenders, who sought to gain possession of the sheep for their own
selfish ends. R2672:2
Attempting to take what they had not secured a right to, and that for
selfish gain. R2673:3
He not only steals the title of Shepherd or Pastor, but is willing to risk
the destruction of the spiritual life of the sheep that the sectarian
lines may be kept up, and his own personal interests served. R3527:3
The Scriptural basis of fellowship and disfellowship is of two parts: (1)
an acceptance of Christ as the Redeemer; and (2) a full consecration to
him. R3673:1
And a robber -- In combining these two words our Lord represents the
foes of the flock, some of them being crafty, and some of them open, bold,
aggressive. R3527:2
John 10:2
By the door -- There was but one doorway into these folds and it was
supposed to be guarded by a porter who would know the true shepherd and
admit him and no other. R4157:2
Opening up a new and living way, or, more correctly, a new way of life.
R4157:3
Not a new door, but the opening of the door which had previously been
closed. The door was the Law, which could not open except by obedience to
the Law. R4157:3
Is the shepherd -- The Apostle John first presents Christ as the Light
of the world; then as the Feeder of the hungry; the Giver of the water of
life; the Healer of human woes; the Supplier of human needs; the Opener of
the eyes of our understanding; and now as the Good Shepherd. R2441:1
David wrote prophetically, "Jehovah is my shepherd" (Psa. 23:1); for in
David's day the arrangements for the Shepherd and his flock of this
parable had not been completed. R2672:1
Our word "pastor" signifies shepherd, as does also the Greek word rendered
"bishop" in our Common Version New Testament; and God, the Great Shepherd,
"set" these in the Church, says the Apostle. R2431:4
Of the sheep -- Symbols of meekness, gentleness, harmlessness. R2441:2
The Messiah was introducing a new system of teaching the philosophy and
ethics of a new dispensation, but it was so radical and revolutionary that
it would only appeal to those with sheeplike meekness. R1647:2
The flock which the Lord was gathering to himself at the time of this
parable was not natural Israel, but spiritual Israel. R3527:6
They were a small flock compared with the nominal Jewish system. R3528:1
A Little Flock. R1648:2
John 10:3
The porter -- The door was barred by justice, as represented in the

Mosaic Law, Israel's covenant. R2441:5
The porter who could thus discriminate between the true and the false was
the Law Covenant. Our Lord met the demands of the Law fully, and is thus
identified to us as the rightful shepherd. R4157:2, 2672:2
The holy Spirit of God. R1647:3
Openeth -- When the true Shepherd came, he satisfied the Law, the
porter. R2672:2
By the various ways which proclaimed him to be the Son of God, as at his
baptism, on the mount of transfiguration, at his death, etc. R1647:3
His own sheep -- The special characteristics of the sheep are meekness,
docility, lack of self-confidence, and the obedience to the shepherd in
whom they fully trust. R5491:4
The barons and lords of England have adopted lions' heads, tigers' heads,
eagles' heads, etc. This represents the natural mind. He who represented
himself as a Good Shepherd and his followers as sheep had a very different
idea of the whole matter. R4157:1, 2441:2
By name -- In Palestine every sheep has a personal acquaintance with its
shepherd, and he with it, and it is said that this acquaintance is so
particular that the shepherds have a separate name for each sheep, and
each sheep knows its own name. R2672:3, 2441:3
The Greeks had a similar custom with names corresponding to certain
defects, such as Torn, Broken Legged, One Eye, etc. In a flock of hundreds
of thousands each individual sheep knows and is known by his name. R4157:6
The call of the present time is not a general one, but a special call.
R2441:6
He is interested in them, not only as a general flock, but as individuals.
R1647:5
He gives to each one of us a new name, and we are each personally known to
him--our peculiarities of character, temperament, etc., our strong points
and our weaknesses--he knows them all. R2672:3
This suggests to us the intimacy of the relationship between Christ and
each member of his flock. R2672:2
Leadeth them out -- They had been "shut up" under the Law Covenant.
R3527:6, 2672:2, 2441:5
Nevertheless, having started them in the way, he will not drive them. He
goeth before them to lead, that they may follow. R2672:3
This means a very special supervision of the affairs and interests of each
one of his true disciples. Whatever may come to these is not a matter of
choice or luck. R5711:5
Our Lord's parable does not tell about the disciplines which the sheep are
sure to receive, but these are set before us in the prophetic Psalm on the
subject, in the words, "Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me." (Psa.
23:4) R2672:5
John 10:4
Putteth forth -- Signifying his looking after them, that they all get
started in the way of the green pastures and still waters for soul
refreshment. (Psa. 23:2) R2672:3
They needed to be led out into the green pastures. The fold is a place for
rest and protection, but not a place for feeding. R4732:2
Before them -- To lead, and not behind them to drive. R1648:2
In Palestine the shepherd goes before his flock and the sheep will follow
him. CR497:5
However varied the experiences of Christians may be, the Lord knows all
about it, for he has felt the same, "yet without sin." (Heb. 4:15) R140:1
The sheep follow him -- The sheep manifest their relationship to him as
his flock by their obedience to his call, by following him. R2442:1
Know his voice -- In the voice of the true Shepherd there is something
that has the proper ring. In the sound is the chord of justice mingled
with those of love, wisdom and power. R4732:3, 4158:1, 2672:5
Truth, like a magnet, gathers to itself all who have an affinity for it.
Thrust it in wherever you will, it will invariably accomplish its work of
finding the loyal and faithful. R1362:2
The important thing is that we should become true members of the Lord's
flock, intimately acquainted with him, and familiar with his word, his
voice. R2441:3
How important from the divine standpoint is knowledge, not merely head
knowledge, but heart knowledge, intimate acquaintance with the Lord and
his glorious plan. R4158:4
John 10:5
A stranger -- With such thoughts as universal salvation, evolution or

eternal torture. R1648:4
The very ones who should have been helping the scattered sheep of Israel
to recognize the true Shepherd were seeking to prevent the Lord's sheep
from recognizing the Shepherd. R2441:1
Not follow -- We have the Lord's assurance that none of the true sheep
will be satisfied with the false gospel; it will not appeal to their
hearts. R4158:1
The sheep will not follow another having a different voice, a different
sound or message. R4732:3
They shun all profane babblings of science, falsely so-called, and being
close students of the divine Word, are prepared to quickly detect error,
though it lurk behind a plausible semblance of truth. R1206:3
It is the duty of every sheep to take special notice of the message and
the manner of every brother before they aid in putting him forward as an
overseer, either local or general. F247
We are to hear the Lord and his chosen mouthpieces rather than to follow
our own imaginations or the imaginations of other uninspired men. R3346:5
A great mistake which some have made, in view of the conflicting ideas of
what is truth, has been to discard every human instrumentality and expect
God's guidance through the Bible alone. R1206:4
A Scottish traveler changed clothes with a shepherd, and thus disguised
began to call the sheep; they remained motionless; then the true shepherd
raised his voice and they all hastened to him in spite of his strange
garments. R4158:1, 2441:3
If we see some whom we had supposed were of the Lord's flock heeding
another voice, we need not be fearful; for if they are true sheep of the
Lord's flock they cannot long be deceived, if at all. R2673:1
Flee from him -- They will not be deceived by the Adversary, though he
should disguise himself in garments of light, to deceive, if it were
possible, the very elect. R2441:3
They know not -- They do not recognize. CR444:5
Voice of strangers -- Intimating that others would seek to call the
sheep in his name, and to direct them, whose leading would be contrary to
his. R910:2
John 10:6
Unto them -- It is supposed that this parable was uttered in the hearing
of the man born blind, and in the hearing also of the Pharisees. R4157:3,
2441:1
No doubt the man was feeling discouraged because of his excommunication
from the supposed fold of the Lord's people. The Lord illustrates the fact
that he had not really been cast out of the Lord's fold, but merely out of
a human organization. R4157:3
They understood not -- Therefore the Lord repeated it in slightly
different terms, proclaiming himself as the doorway by which any could
enter into divine favor as members of the Lord's flock. R4157:4
John 10:7
I am the door -- He is both the door and the shepherd. He entered the
door of the divine plan, and thus became to us the door of opportunity; he
was also therefore counted worthy to be the Shepherd to lead us back to
the fold of God. R1647:3
There was only one door, which had not been opened, and which none of
these would-be leaders could open. That door was the door of redemption.
Our Lord, by giving his life for the sheep, opened that door. R4732:3,
4157:3, 1647:3
Jesus as the "door" represents all the privileges and blessings of the
true sheep. R3528:1
Jesus became the door of egress from the Jewish sheepfold, and there is no
other egress. R4732:3
Thus the man who had been cast out of the synagogue might perceive that he
had really lost nothing, but that on the contrary he had been assisted
toward the right door of the true fold. R4157:4
John 10:8
Thieves and robbers -- The scribes and Pharisees. Q845:3

The word here rendered thieves contains the thought of craftiness,
embezzlement. R3527:2
The word robber contains the thought of open violence, free-booting.
R3527:2
John 10:9
I am the door -- As in the Tabernacle, there was only one gateway to

enter the Holy Place or Court; the type thus testifying that there is but
one way of access to God, one Gate, Jesus. T18
If any man -- Inasmuch as there were not enough who heard his voice to
complete the elect number of his flock, the Good Shepherd has lifted up
his voice and has called sheep from amongst the Gentiles. R2441:6
Enter in -- Many true sheep had gotten out of the fold and were lost in
the wilderness of sin. His ministry was a call to these as well as to
those who remained in the fold. R2441:6
He shall be saved -- The Master did not say that he came to deliver the
sheep from eternal torment, but that he came to deliver them from death.
R4157:4
Go in and out -- By him we enter into rest in the fold, the rest of
faith. By him also we may go out to enjoy the liberties and refreshments
to which as our Shepherd he leads the flock. R3528:1
Out and into pasturage and refreshment and to rest and security. R2673:3
John 10:10
Might have life -- Men by disobedience had "lost" the right to eternal
life. It was this life-right that man needed and that Christ came to give
back to him. NS3:1; SM534:1
The language spoken in Palestine in Jesus' day was the Syrian. One of the
Great Teacher's titles is The Savior. This, in Syriac language signifies,
"The Life Giver." R4702:1; SM534:1; HG191:6
They will get back their soul, being, existence, with "life [Greek, zoee]
more abundantly." E336
More abundantly -- Perfect life, everlasting life. NS340:4
Referring to two classes--the obedient of the world who sustain life
everlastingly; and the Church who, with Jesus, will share the divine
nature, "more abundant" inherent life, not requiring sustenance. R5609:4,
4157:5
Those becoming participants in their Lord's grace, renounce, or sacrifice
with him the earthly inheritance, the earthly life, that they may attain
heaven and its "life more abundant." NS74:1
John 10:11
The good shepherd -- More literally, the grand Shepherd, the ideal
Shepherd. R4157:1
Fitly representing the close confidential relationship, but it is a figure
that is quite contrary to the world. R2441:1
Giveth his life -- Greek, psuche, soul or being. E336
There was but one way to become the true Shepherd. That way was the way of
the cross, to give himself a ransom for all. R4157:2, 2441:5
He demonstrated his devotion to his office by the sacrifice of everything,
even life itself, on behalf of the sheep. R3527:3, 2673:4
No matter how many others might claim to be the shepherd, he declared
himself to be the only true one, and that he would prove it, even to the
sacrifice of his life for them. R1647:2
Our Lord defended the interests of the sheep against the false spirits and
the wolves of his day, and it cost him his life. R3527:5
The link between the Shepherd and the sheep, as here indicated, is love.
R2672:5
Literally, lays down, as in Diaglott and Variorum. Young gives the
meaning, "to put, set, place." Not in the past tense. The Lord was
speaking of something he was about to do, not what he had already done.
R1298:6*
For the sheep -- Our Lord's death not only satisfied the Law, "the
porter," so that he opened the sheepfold, but it gave the true Shepherd
the ownership and control of the sheep. R2441:6
John 10:12
That is an hireling -- The owner of the flock or his son usually did the
shepherding, or sometimes an employee who was given an interest in the
increase of the flock, as, for instance, Jacob with his father-in-law,
Laban. R2441:2
The responsibility of those who have undertaken the gospel ministry in the
name of Christ is very great. D62
To advance their own personal interests; but he, as the true Shepherd,
instead of seeking his own welfare, was seeking the welfare and advantage
of the sheep. R4157:4
Seeking their own advantage: honor of men, influence, wealth, etc., and
willing to sacrifice the sheep to serve these ends, illustrated in the
treatment of the man whose eyes had just been opened. R3527:1
They think chiefly of their own ease and comfort, honor and dignity. They
are not very deeply concerned respecting the spiritual progress of the
sheep, but specially in numbers and collections. R2673:4, 1647:6
Plato, Aristotle, Socrates, Confucius and others could not be classified
as false shepherds, but as bell sheep, themselves lost, leading the flocks
to the best pastures and purest waters they could find. R1647:5
Those who, after being enlightened, love darkness rather than light, and
who, instead of pointing men to Christ, direct them to human philosophies,
merit the appellations which the Lord applies to them. R1647:5
The wolf -- The false teacher. R3142:3
Of infidelity. R1647:6
In sheep's clothing, of course; otherwise they would not be received.
R3142:5
Scattereth the sheep -- Only the wayward and heedless sheep can be
harmed and scattered. The obedient, trusting sheep, will be tenderly cared
for by the good Shepherd. R1648:2
John 10:13
The hireling -- Of all the professions, the Christian ministry has

afforded the quickest and easiest route to fame, ease and general temporal
prosperity, and often to wealth. D61
Fleeth -- Some are fleeing from the old systems and running after Darwin
and Huxley. Many are industriously endeavoring to dissuade the sheep from
all faith in the inspiration of the sacred Scriptures. R1647:6
The great Parliament of Religions held in Chicago [1893] was a
manifestation of the disposition of prominent hireling shepherds to
attract the attention of the sheep to various heathen philosophies. R1647:6
Ignominiously, by silence and allowing the sheep to be misled. Our Lord
could have taken this course by refraining from antagonizing the scribes,
Pharisees and chief priests. R3527:5
Careth not -- While none of them could have bought the sheep, since all
were under condemnation, we have no reason to suppose that any of them
would have been willing to purchase them at the cost of his all. R4158:3
For the sheep -- The scribes and Pharisees neglected the interests of
the people and were engaged in seeking their own gain--wealth and
fame--while piously posing as religious leaders. Q845:3
John 10:14
The good shepherd -- He, in his absence, has made provision for his
flock, that he would give them pastors and teachers who were to feed the
flock of God, and to watch for their souls, for their lives, to protect
them. R4158:3
The Good Shepherd will always be represented amongst the sheep by those
who have his own characteristic. Through these he will utter his "voice"
and lead his own sheep to pasture and to rest. R2673:5
As the true sheep know the true Shepherd and are known by him, so the true
Shepherd should know the true under-shepherds and they should know the
sheep intimately. R4158:3
Know my sheep -- The shepherd was acquainted with his sheep and loved
them, not merely as so much wealth and merchandise, but as friends with
whom he conversed, and whose welfare he defended. R2441:2
Not all mankind are sheep, or have the Shepherd's care. In the present
time only those who have heard the Shepherd's voice and responded to his
call to become his sheep are his flock. His word is that it is a little
flock. R3268:3
Other sheep are consecrated to human leaders, human institutions, human
theories, human efforts, following their own bents, and are thus separated
from the Little Flock. R2673:2
At the present time there are many sheep in the nominal church, but they
are not all the Lord's sheep. The harvest is the time for separating the
different flocks of sheep. R2673:2
And am known -- From the standpoint of election, the Lord chooses such
characters, and such characters choose the Lord. NS264:2
This class recognize, know, the Lord more and more intimately day by day,
and find their love and devotion to him continually increasing. R3527:5
He knows us fully, we know him in part, known as we progress, but when the
journey is finished then shall we know even as also we are known. (1 Cor.
13:12) R140:4*
The true sheep must not judge of fellow sheep by the pelt; for a wolf can
wear a sheep's pelt; but must learn to note the Shepherd's voice and
manner--directly through his Word, and indirectly through his
John 10:15
The Father knoweth me -- Has confidence in me, has entrusted the care of
the sheep to me. R2673:5
So know I -- I have full confidence in him, and recognize him as my
Shepherd. R2673:5
This intimacy of acquaintance, this fellowship divine, is something which
cannot be explained to others, but which is certainly appreciated by all
the true sheep. R3527:6
Lay down my life -- Greek, psuche, soul. E337
His life as a man, his life in the flesh, his humanity, was what he gave
for the life of the world as the world's sin-offering, "My flesh I will
give for the life of the world." (John 6:51) R1247:5, 4536:1, 1228:4
The drawing of the world could not take place except he were lifted up as
the sin-offering. R2467:4
In harmony with God's arrangements for me and for my sheep. R2673:6
The sheep of the Little Flock now being called are to be sacrificed: as
the Shepherd, the King's Son, himself was sacrificed as the Lamb of God.
R2442:2
As it was the mission of our Lord not to rule the world at his first
advent, but to lay down his life for the world, so it is the mission of
the Church, not to rule the world now, but to "lay down our lives for the
brethren." (1 John 3:16) R2415:3
His followers will not only have the same voice, the same Word, but they
will have the same devotion to the interests of the sheep. R2673:5, 2442:5
For the sheep -- For us, the Church, and for all mankind. E446
John 10:16
Other sheep -- There are two classes of sheep: obedient ones, easily led
by the voice of the shepherd, and a more listless and somewhat wayward
class who need some driving and guiding with the crook. R1648:2
Others who will become the Lord's followers under different conditions and
a different call. R4784:3
Every soul that longs for the truth is one of the Lord's lost sheep.
R1374:5
These other sheep will include all of mankind who, during the Millennial
Kingdom, will be glad to avail themselves of the great provision the Lord
has made for them in his plan. R5694:1, 5490:6, 4940:6, 4157:5, 3528:3,
2442:1, 1919:1, 1648:2, 1374:5, 655:1; NS272:6
The Good Shepherd gave his life a ransom for all his sheep, not merely for
the Little Flock of this age. Christ's larger flock will be gathered after
the kingdom is set up. R2442:1
I bought the whole world with the one sacrifice for sins, and all who have
the true sheep disposition. R2673:6
Whosoever will live godly shall go out with joy and be led forth in peace
by the great Shepherd of the flock. R3597:5
These other sheep are particularly mentioned by our Master in the parable
of the Sheep and the Goats in Matt. 25:31-46. R4784:6, 3528:3, 2606:6,
701:2; NS181:5, 272:6
Evidently also referred to as another "book of life" from that of the
Gospel age. (Rev. 20:12) R701:3
"Israel after the flesh" will not be neglected; for though of another
flock, they are under the same shepherd. R633:5
While this may be particularly applicable to the sheep of the next age, it
may not be amiss to apply it now to those who are received from amongst
the Gentiles. R4732:6
The view that we who are of the Gentiles or "other sheep" mentioned are
now being brought into the one fold is not correct. We were not the Lord's
sheep at all at the time of this parable. R3528:2
God for a time recognized only Israel and left others unrecognized. These,
blinded by Satan, are hindered by weaknesses within and errors without,
and include such notable shining heathen lights as Aristotle, Plato,
Confucius and others. R1180:3
He was speaking to his flock, spiritual Israel, whom he was gathering out
from amongst nominal Israel and subsequently from amongst the Gentiles.
The other sheep, now lost, the world in general, blind and deaf, will be
found of the Lord shortly. NS272:6
The Good Shepherd has various flocks. "As a shepherd searches for his
flock on the day that he is among his flocks that are scattered, so will I
search for my flocks." (Ezek. 34:20--Leeser) R633:1
Not of this fold -- Not of the Little Flock of this Gospel age. R3268:3
They will be of a different nature from the flock which the Lord is
selecting during this Gospel age. R5694:1, 5491:1
We who are not Jews by nature, but Gentiles when we came into Christ, are
members of this same flock. R3528:2
I must bring -- In due time, to a knowledge of the truth and to the full
privilege of sheep. R3268:3
He has not yet begun to bring the other sheep; he is still taking the
flock he first started to call, namely, spiritual Israel. NS412:2
The Lord will lead his sheep back to the heights of life. He is now
leading his sheep of the Gospel age, the Church. By and by he will lead
the world, during his Millennial Kingdom. R5654:4, 4158:5, 2673:6
Lead into truth and righteousness during the Millenial age. R655:1, 5490:6
The entire Millennial age will be required for the finding of the Lord's
true sheep amongst the world of mankind. R3528:3, 3268:3
At that time the present flock will have passed beyond the veil into the
Kingdom and its full glories. R4158:5, 2673:6
The Lord intends to use the very elect Little Flock of this Gospel age to
carry his mercy and favor to all, and to give them an opportunity of
becoming members of the human flock. R4158:6; NS412:6
One fold -- In the Revised Version and Diaglott: "one flock." R4159:1
Illustrating unity and indivisibility. R81:2*
"Of whom the whole family both in heaven and in earth is named." (Eph.
3:15) R2673:6
The two flocks will come back into harmony with God, but the one flock
will be of the heavenly fold while the other flock will be of the earthly
fold. NS412:6; R4732:6
Eventually all of God's creatures on various planes of being shall be
recognized as one family of God. R3268:6
The flock will be one, but the sheep will be of various natures on various
planes of being. R4159:4, 4940:6
John 10:17
Therefore -- Love with an if in it means love that is conditional, or

because of something. R1253:5
My Father love me -- There are two kinds of love: the intense,
particular love, and the general love, or kindness; and two sorts of love,
affectionate love and loving kindness. This text shows special love, or
affection. R1254:3
My life -- Psuche, being, existence; not zoee, life. R667:4, 53:4*; E337
That I might take -- According to the divine promise and power, in the
resurrection. E337
Literally, receive; in his resurrection. R667:3
When he laid down his being, it was a human soul or being; but when he was
made alive from the dead, it was no longer a human being, but a
life-giving spirit, of the divine nature. R667:3
John 10:18
No man taketh it -- Jesus' death was a voluntary act. While men might
seem to take his life by crucifying him, yet they were mistaken; in
reality, "no man taketh it from me." R198:2*
No man took it from him in the sense that no man had that power, since God
had promised that "he that keepeth the law shall live by it." CR95:5;
R4642:4
I lay it down -- Jesus surrendered his life. He did not give away his
life, nor did he forfeit it; nor did the Jews or Roman soldiers take it
from him contrary to his permission. R4704:4; Q445:2
He did not barter or exchange his life for the heavenly nature. Our Lord's
life would have been protected had he not voluntarily submitted and laid
down his earthly rights. CR96:5; R4751:4, 4642:4
He laid it down in the Father's hands, saying, "Into thy hands I commit my
spirit." (Luke 23:46) R4642:4; CR96:5
Of myself -- Christ likewise so loved the world as freely to become the
instrument of Jehovah for its salvation. R2099:3
It was necessary that his disciples should know this, not merely that they
might esteem their Lord more highly, but especially that they might
realize him as their Redeemer, whose voluntary sacrifice for our sins
redeemed father Adam and his entire race. R3528:6
Our Lord's earthly life was not forfeited, but merely laid down. The
intention of laying it down was to abandon it, personally, forever, that
humanity might get it. R5342:1, 4704:4; Q194:2
All other men are in bondage to corruption, and have no life in them by
nature, but he being a perfect and sinless man, was not liable to sin's
penalty, death. R677:1*
Christ was able to, and did, keep God's perfect law of love, and by thus
remaining a perfect human being, was not subject to death. R1213:3*
Jesus kept the Law inviolate, therefore he had a right to life, hence it
is that the Law did not demand his death, but when he died it was
willingly a sacrifice for our sins. R608:1, 2037:5
Instead of the penalty of sin being "inflicted" upon our Redeemer, our
Lord Jesus gladly and freely gave himself as our ransom, in harmony with
the Father's plan. R1287:1
He submitted in Gethsemane, not because he must, but because he was
voluntarily submitting himself to death, steadfastly refusing to yield to
any appeals from his flesh to escape or lessen his sufferings. R5585:5,
4591:2
I have power -- Or, privilege. R2037:3, 667:3
Authority. R4751:4, 1213:3*, 667:3; Q445:2
He was commissioned or authorized by the Father so to do. R2037:3
To lay it down -- Thus the human nature remains forever dead, and
mankind, having a substitute in death, can justly be brought forth from
death, and will be, in due time. R1337:1*, 823:5
The life to which we are justified by our faith in Jesus' ransom must be
laid down, even as he laid down his life. Thus we are "crucified with
Christ." (Gal. 2:20) R814:2*
Not, "laid down;" not past tense, but of an act in the future. R1298:5*
To take it again -- This passage should read, "to receive it again."
R2037:3, 667:3
Our Lord's commission was not merely to lay down his life, but also to
receive it again. R3528:5
The human existence of Jesus, our ransom, was surrendered to everlasting
death; but he lives as a divine being to claim and restore to perfection
mankind, purchased by his human life. R823:5
Jesus rights to earthly life, protection, dominion and power all belonged
to him as a new creature when he arose from the dead. Those earthly rights
are the basis of all the blessings of God through him to mankind. R4642:4;
CR96:5
The Father was not content to merely restore him to his previous high
position of the past, but made him a partaker of the divine nature in the
fullest and most absolute sense. R3528:6
This same promise is open to us if we are faithful: "If we suffer with him
we shall also reign with him," sharing his "glory, honor and
immortality"--the divine nature. (2 Pet. 1:4) R3528:6
This commandment -- Word, precept. R667:3
Authority or power to say this. R198:3*, 4642:4; CR96:5
I received -- I have obtained. CR96:5; R4642:4
John 10:20
He hath a devil -- That they were blinded by their own willful prejudice
beyond that prejudice engendered by the fall, is evident because others,
no less depraved, asked, "Can a devil open the eyes of the blind?" R724:1
And is mad -- In the opinion of men he foolishly wasted his life. His
life and teachings were mysteries to them. They could not understand him.
A85
The world says of us that we are of an unsound mind because we care for
the better things, the heavenly things. R5094:6; E196
John 10:25
In my Father's name -- Our Lord Jesus in all matters acts as the

Neither Elijah nor Elisha nor Jesus claimed to give life to the dead by
their own power. It was the power of Jehovah delegated to, or active
through them. R810:3
John 10:26
Not of my sheep -- All who believe are his sheep. R140:1*

John 10:27
My sheep -- During the Gospel age the Lord has but one Church, one flock
who follow him. R4784:3
It is well that all should have the docile, sheep-like nature, but it is
necessary also that the sheep have character, else they cannot be
overcomers. F247
Hear my voice -- Obey. F247; R279:4, 142:5
The Word of God. R2672:5
How does God call? By the Gospel. (2 Thess. 2:14) Jesus called by the
Gospel when he was on earth, and then he gave the commission to the
disciples, and so the calling goes on through the long dark night until
the fullness of the Gentiles be come in. R810:6*
There are many voices in the world, some calling in one direction and some
in another. The world calls us, the flesh calls us, the Adversary calls
us, and the Master calls us. R3163:3, 2672:6, 2257:1
We are intentionally exposed to the various voices which would call us
away from our Shepherd, and from following in his footsteps. R2257:2
We may have difficulty in discerning between the voice of the Adversary
and the voice of the good Shepherd, because the Adversary's method is to
simulate, or counterfeit, the voice of the Shepherd. R3163:6
Not all are able to hear and recognize the Shepherd's voice in the present
time. The majority are deaf on the subject. The Scriptures say, "He that
hath an ear to hear [the Gospel] let him hear." (Rev. 2:7) R2257:1
The true sheep will listen intently for the faintest sound of the
Shepherd's voice. R5491:4
The voice of the Lord, the Great Shepherd, amongst his sheep is to be
heard now, because it is the time of his second presence. R5693:6
During this harvest time, the increase of light, this hearing of the voice
of the Lord, brings a test--the separation of those who are the true sheep
from others who do not belong to this flock. R3883:6
The true sheep hear the Shepherd's voice, saying, "If any man will come
after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me."
(Matt. 16:24) R1790:3
We hear his voice assuring us that it is his will that we who belong to
his chaste, espoused virgin class should all be one, no longer separated
into sects and parties by creedal fences. SM125:2
If any are in Babylon and do not hear the voice of the Lord now calling
them out, the inference is that they are not his true sheep. R5697:5
The shepherd of one flock calls his sheep in squads, and when the squad
has done drinking, orders it away by sounds which the sheep perfectly
understand, and calls up another squad. R4157:6
The Apostle tells us that "the ox knoweth its owner and the ass his
master's crib." (Isa. 1:3) Although brute beasts, they know where to go
for their nourishment. R3786:1
They follow me -- Follow the voice, the instructions, of the Shepherd.
E386
"Take up their cross and follow me." (Mark 10:21) R279:4, 142:5
To gain everlasting life we must become the Lord's "sheep" and follow the
voice, the instruction of the Shepherd. It will not be forced upon any,
but must be sought, desired and laid hold upon by all who would gain it.
R1878:4, 1648:2
John 10:28
I give unto them -- Jehovah is our Father, life-giver, though he has

used the Spirit and the Word as his agents in our begetting, and will use
Jesus as his agent in our birth or resurrection. R297:2
It is God in Christ reconciling the world to himself. We honor both the
Father and the Son. R27:5*
As Lord, Christ gives immortality. R62:4*
Granted only to those who, when they learn of it and the terms upon which
it will be granted as a gift, seek for it, by living according to the
spirit of holiness. E386
Contrary to Romanism's teaching that immortality is inherent in all men.
R560:4*
Eternal life -- It was by virtue of purchasing the sheep by his now
precious blood that their eternal life is possible. R4157:5
"I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him, and
show him my salvation [make him understand my plan]." (Psa. 91:15,16)
R3332:5
Never perish -- As the Father hath inherent life, so he gave to the Son
to have this life--he had the promise of it during his earthly ministry
and the reality of it in his resurrection. This same promise is given to
the Church. R5608:6
A truly regenerated soul who abides under the blood never will be lost.
R140:1
Neither shall any -- We are as dear to him as the apple of his eye. He
that began a good work in us is able to complete it in the day of Jesus
Christ. (Phil. 1:6) R5118:5
John 10:29
My Father -- There is something thoroughly incorrect in the idea that

our Lord Jesus was his own heavenly Father, Jehovah. R2773:3
Which gave them me -- All the drawing thus far done from the time of our
Lord to the present has been done by the Heavenly Father himself, not by a
mediator nor by an advocate. R4476:2
Greater than all -- On so important a question as the equality of the
Father and the Son, we must not rely upon any man's testimony except that
of the inspired writers of the Scriptures. R5747:6; OV114:4
In combatting the error that Jesus was a mere man, some, loyal to the
Lord, went to the other extreme and declared him, contrary to his own
words, equal to the Father. R4165:1
Meditating no such usurpation of divine authority as did Lucifer. On the
contrary, he was the very personification of loving obedience and
self-abnegation. OV307:T
He had no thought of robbing the divine glory and honor by putting himself
upon a equality with God the Father. R5846:6
The word "all" may be used to refer to all mankind, or all of a certain
specified class. Here the all includes creatures on every plane of
being--men, angels, etc. It is the plural form of the Greek word pas.
R838:2
Even "the Son himself being subject unto him, that God may be all in all."
(1 Cor. 15:28) R715:4*
The great Shepherd now present with his sheep and gathering out of all the
various pens of Christendom those who know his voice, will not suffer the
wolves to stampede his flock, nor to devour them. R4710:4, 4449:4
No man is able -- There is no danger of others plucking or forcibly
separating us from God's favor, or turning his love away from us. The only
danger is in our own doings. R1458:5
While each member of the Royal Priesthood is at liberty to go back to
wallowing in the mire, yet if he choose to remain, none shall be able to
pluck him out of his Father's hand, nor to separate him from his grace.
(Rom. 8:38,39) SM11:T
If the salt loses its savor it will be because we abandon the truth and
turn unto fables, and not because God fails to supply it to his saints
with abundant and convincing proof. R634:6*
It does not imply an imprisonment of those in God's care, so that they
cannot go from him as they came to him, by the exercise of their own free
wills. R1698:6
So long as our hearts are loyal, neither angels nor devils nor men will be
permitted to separate us from him; but if we do not earnestly desire to
abide in him, he will not only permit us to leave him, but will force us
to do so. R2287:1
The Lord himself keeps the Church books and the individual accounts of
each member. His unerring wisdom alone is sufficient for that. It is most
unbecoming in any member of the Body to assume the authority of the Head
of the Church. R1893:5
To pluck them out -- Or blot their names from the records in heaven.
R1893:5
John 10:30
Are one -- One in sympathy, one in plan, one in operation, and not one
in person. CR229:5
This text is considered as a proof that our Lord Jesus is entitled to the
name Jehovah, that he was both the Father and the Son; or that he had no
Father and was not a Son. On the contrary, the thought of this text is
that of harmony. E75
He and the Father were one in mind and purpose, because he would not do
any will of his own; he would do only the Father's will. They were in
absolute oneness. E75; CR248:5
Because he had fully submitted his will to the Father's will and had made
the Father's will his own, therefore they were one. SM493:1
It is a oneness which results from having the same mind or spirit; it is
the same oneness that should exist between a heart union of man and wife;
they twain are one. R369:5
The Bible says that all men should honor the Son even as they honor the
Father. CR248:5
In John 17:20-23 the oneness of the Church for which the Lord prayed is
stated to be exactly the same as the oneness between the Father and the
Son--a oneness of mind, and not a personal oneness. E75; NS258:6
Christ's followers, when united to him, will be given immortality, thus
being made one with him in the same sense that the Father and the Son are
one. Thus will their lives harmonize and blend, yet the Father will be
greater than all. R715:4*
John 10:31
The Jews -- "A man's foes shall be those of his own household." (Matt.
10:36) The Master was a Jew. The Jews were his brethren according to the
flesh; and it was they that hated him without a cause, they that
persecuted him. SM218:2
John 10:32
From my Father -- In discoursing with his disciples, Jesus tells them

that they might pray to God as their Father. No Jew had ever done this
before. R5683:6
John 10:33
Blasphemy -- Applicable to any indignity offered to God. Bouvier defines

it: "Blasphemy is to attribute to God that which is contrary to his nature
and does not belong to him, and to deny what does." B306
Blasphemy, as the word is used in Scripture, does not signify profane
swearing, but rather a misstatement of character. R499:6
Makest thyself God -- Reasoning thus: that if a son of God, he was
making himself to be also a God, or of the God family. R301:3
Jesus said that not only was he the Son of God, but that he would bring
many sons to God. R5623:3
John 10:34
Written in your law -- Where all of the Lord's consecrated people, the
Gospel Church, are called "sons of God." He merely claimed the same title
that was there freely given to those who would come into that
relationship. (Psa. 82:6) R2781:5
Ye are gods -- Clearly showing that the term "gods" in Psa. 82 is
applied to all the sons of the Most High God, who will be joint-heirs with
Christ Jesus. C239
Referring to other mighty ones--the Church, the sons of God, of whom Jesus
is the head or chief. R421:3, 338:2
Greek, theos, seldom used in the New Testament except in referring to
Jehovah, because the apostles rarely spoke of false systems of religion;
yet so used of other than Jehovah, here and in Acts 7:40,43; 17:23; 1 Cor.
8:5. B274
John 10:35
Unto whom the word -- Those having ears to hear; and it applies still to
the same class. E69
The gods there mentioned are the ones who receive obediently his words and
example. If God calls such as receive Jesus' teachings "gods," the teacher
of those gods could properly claim the same relationship as a son of God.
R474:2, 301:3
Cannot be broken -- Not only David was inspired, but this text proves
that the 82nd Psalm, a "Psalm of Asaph," also "cannot be broken." R1418:3;
HG310:6
John 10:36
Hath sanctified -- Jesus Christ was sanctified, and sent into the world
for the good of the human race; and his Body or Bride are for the same
purpose. R69:5*
I am the Son of God -- The charge of blasphemy against our Lord was
based on his claim of being a Son of God--not the Father himself; that
thus he was placing himself on a parity with God, as being of the same
kind or nature. R2781:5
This feature of the Master's teachings especially angered the Jews; for
they declared that in claiming to be the Son of God, he was establishing
himself upon a pedestal of honor in competition with Jehovah. R5768:1;
OV329:2
He never acknowledged Joseph to be his father; nor did he ever acknowledge
his earthly life to be the beginning of his existence. E89
Jesus claimed to be the Son of God, and consequently the Messiah. He also
required his disciples to believe this truth. R944:4*
Just what we claim. "Beloved now are we the sons of God." (1 John 3:2)
"The God and Father of our Lord Jesus hath begotten us." (1Pet. 1:3)
R301:3
John 10:38
Believe the works -- Messiah was to heal the sick, etc.; consequently
our Lord must do these things, and in a measure begin the work of
restitution, so that Israel could recognize him and be responsible for
rejecting him and his "works." R2000:4
John 10:39
But he escaped -- It seems as though his explanation satisfied them, for

they did not stone him. R474:2, 301:3
John 11
John 11:1
Was sick -- Probably with one of the fevers common to that part of the
country, similar to the one from which our Lord recovered Peter's wife's
mother. R3529:1
Lazarus -- It has been supposed by some that the rich young ruler who
came to Jesus for advice and subsequently went away very sorrowful was his
friend Lazarus. R3529:1
It has been inferred that later on Lazarus did become a consecrated
follower of the Lord. R3529:3
Some have thought that they discerned Lazarus amongst later disciples of
Christ--possibly Barnabas. OV334:4
John 11:3
Sent unto him -- The message was brief; it did not urge him to come nor
ask a miraculous intervention; it merely stated the fact. In some respects
it was a grand model of a Christian prayer. R4160:2, 3529:1
They thought it proper to send the Master word respecting Lazarus, but not
proper to dictate to him what should be done in the case. OV333:T
They knew of Jesus' power to heal, even by the word of his mouth. They had
faith that if he could help strangers, he would certainly be glad to
assist his friend. R4552:4
They manifested their faith and submission also as to what answer would
come--as to whether he would simply send word, or bless a handkerchief, or
what not. They felt that he would care for them. R5230:2
Beyond Jordan, a distance of only about 30 miles. R3529:1
Whom thou lovest -- For he was a special friend, and their home was his
home whenever he was near Jerusalem. OV333:T Though one whom Jesus loved,
he was not one of the apostles which followed with the Lord. OV334:4
It speaks volumes for the character of Lazarus as a man that he had the
love of the Lord Jesus. R3529:2
John 11:4
Not unto death -- Not that our Lord was mistaken, that Lazarus would not
die, rather that the result would not be continuous death, knowing that he
would awaken him. R4160:3
But for the glory of God -- The matter of Lazarus' death was a part of
the divine program, as was also his subsequent awakening from the tomb.
R3529:1
John 11:5
Jesus loved Martha -- Jesus loved all mankind to the extent that he
"tasted death for every man." (Heb. 2:9) But among men he had his special
loves. R439:4
Yet, when choosing his twelve apostles, and later the "seventy," he chose
none of his female followers. F265
Martha comes down to us as a synonym of bustling, energetic hospitality,
"busied about many things." Yet surely she was loving and loyal to the
Master. OV334:4
As we note the special features of character which called forth the
Master's love, we shall more and more be able to copy them in reaching our
goal. OV335:2
John 11:6
He abode two days -- In order that the miracle might be more pronounced.
R3529:4
It must have been a great trial of their faith when our Lord remained
away. R5230:2
John 11:7
Let us go -- There would be no particular danger. The miracle he

intended to perform would disconcert his enemies long enough to permit of
his return to Berea a little later. R4160:3
John 11:9
Walk in the day -- As though we were living in the broad daylight, so

that if the world understood all about any transaction of ours, they would
realize that we are honest--even as the Lord understands all about it.
R5098:5
John 11:11
Sleepeth -- Lazarus was not dead as a brute beast, but was merely
inanimate for a time, awaiting the Lord's due time to call him forth, to
re-animate him. R4160:3; OV333:4
Mankind's condition would be actual death, the same as a brute beast, were
it not that the Lord has provided in Jesus for their resuscitation. We are
to think of the world of mankind as not being extinct, but merely asleep.
R4160:5, 3529:3, 2796:5, 1377:6; PD61/72; NS751:1
The Adamic death penalty was to perish, but it has been cancelled by
Christ's ransom. No longer should it regarded as a perished condition, but
as a "sleep" from which the Redeemer will awaken all. R1126:2; HG293:5
In his sleep of death the four days of death were but as a moment; his
awakening thought was next to the one he had when he fell asleep in death.
R3531:4; E344; HG331:6
God's purpose of a resurrection is fixed, unalterable. Those whom men call
dead "all live unto him." (Luke 20:38) From God's standpoint they are
asleep, and not destroyed. R5611:5
Throughout the Scriptures we find death repeatedly mentioned as sleep:
Abraham slept with his fathers; so did all the prophets and kings of
Israel. R3529:4, 3027:6, 2959:1, 2197:6, 2172:3, 1881:1, 678:2; E345;
HG332:2, 194:1, 121:6; OV333:1; SM38:2; NS830:6
All mankind fall asleep to wait for the morning of the great Millennial
day, when the Sun of Righteousness shall arise. R5166:5; OV333:4
Many who use the term sleep, and who place it upon the tombstones,
overlook entirely the fact that it implies that the sleeping one is
unconscious, that he will not be conscious until the waking time, the
The Scriptures say also that all live unto God (Luke 20:38), for from his
standpoint they only sleep. R5073:2
Did we suppose that the good "sleep" in heaven? We were told that the bad
go to a place too warm for sleep. OV333:4; SM39:T
Out of sleep -- A sleep that otherwise would have lasted until the dawn
of the Millennial day when the general resurrection would be due, but a
sleep that was interrupted temporarily. HG136:1
John 11:12
He shall do well -- The disciples had not understood the Master's words.
R5611:6
John 11:14
Lazarus is dead -- Coming down to their ordinary use of language.

SM39:1; R3027:6, 1880:6
It is actually death, but it was likened to a sleep in view of the
resurrection. R1017:6*
John 11:15
I am glad -- Because it will give me an opportunity to demonstrate to

you and through you to all who shall be my disciples in the future the
great power of God that is vested in me in respect to the resurrection of
the dead. OV333:T; R4552:5
Remembering that their tears and troubles may be made to them, under the
Lord's providence, a great blessing. R4160:6
So with us, the Lord will be glad to permit our trials, sorrows, tears and
difficulties for our sakes, that we may thus receive some important
lessons which we could not otherwise so well learn. R4161:1
Let us go -- Manifesting a change in Jesus' attitude; discarding
caution, he went directly to the house of Lazarus and his sisters. He knew
that his hour was come; that the end of his ministry was at hand. NS629:5
With his disciples, he began the three days' journey to Bethany. R4552:5
John 11:16
That we may die -- This was the spirit of courage which the twelve shared,
and it helps to reconcile us to their apparent cowardice on the night of his
betrayal, a cowardice which was incited by our Lord's own refusal to accept
assistance. R4161:1
Some of us who feel courageous for the Lord and his cause and ready to die
therefor need indeed to watch and pray that we maintain this disposition
and not succumb in the hour of stress. R4161:2
John 11:17
When Jesus came -- Portions of two more days were spent in reaching
Bethany. R3529:4
John 11:19
To comfort them -- It was the custom of the time to have a funeral

service of mourning for seven days. R4161:2
John 11:20
Went -- Evidently in the direction of the tomb, for the Jews who were
mourning with her in the house, followed her. R4161:4
And met him -- Jesus did not consider it the part of wisdom to go to the
home, which he knew would be crowded with mourners. R4161:2
Mary sat still -- Mary was so overcome because he had not sent some help
in her brother's case, that she did not feel that she even wished to see
the Lord. She did not feel like honoring him. R5230:3
Bowed with her grief and perhaps disappointed that the Lord's word, "This
sickness is not unto death, but unto the glory of God" (verse 4), had
apparently failed. R4161:2
It has been assumed that there was a special heart-fellowship between our
Lord and Mary, and it is in full harmony with this thought that we find
her remaining at home until she received the message that the Lord
inquired for her. R3529:6
John 11:21
If thou hadst -- If thou hadst come when we sent thee word. OV334:1;
SM39:2
There was in this remark something of the suggestion of chiding. R4161:3
We cannot blame the sorrowing sisters that they felt hurt that the Messiah
should apparently neglect their interests. R4552:5
How apt we all are, while laboring under the weight of sorrow, to wonder
why the Lord's omnipotent power does not intervene on our behalf, feeling
that as his special friends we should have special consideration. R3529:4
Had not died -- The sisters were greatly disappointed. They had not
thought of the possibility of their brother's dying, because they so
thoroughly believed in the power of Jesus. SM39:2
John 11:23
Shall rise -- Notice that our Lord did not say, "Thy brother is not
dead; thy brother is more alive than he ever was; he is in heaven or in
purgatory." R4552:5, 4161:3, 3530:1; HG194:2; OV213:5
He did not tell Martha and Mary that Lazarus was in heaven, with a harp in
his hands. R5611:6; OV334:2
John 11:24
In the resurrection -- The disciples and followers of Jesus were Jews

who, as a people, believed the dead were dead, and placed their hopes in a
While the doctrine of redemption is the central doctrine of the Christian
system, the doctrine of resurrection is the end of our faith, our glorious
hope through Christ. R1774:2
To those that believe that the dead are more alive now than when they were
alive, the doctrine of the resurrection must, of necessity, be
foolishness. SM35:3
The resurrection is contrary to the laws of nature, according to all the
history of the past. Only those who have an implicit faith in the Creator
will be able to receive this doctrine. SM36:1
At the last day -- The great day, the seventh thousand-year day, the day
of Christ's Kingdom, when all the dead will be due to come forth. R5611:6,
5339:4, 4552:5, 4161:3, 2795:5
John 11:25
I am the resurrection -- Speaking of the intended results of his

sacrifice. F696
There will be no resurrection except by my power--why not ask me now?
R5611:6, 4552:5, 4161:3; OV334:2; SM39:3
Jesus is God's appointed channel by which the world may obtain
reconciliation, restitution, life everlasting, or, refusing it at his
hand, their portion will be the second death. HG96:3 Even then he
suspended temporarily the power of death, restoring Lazarus again, and
thus illustrating the resurrection power which will be used in much fuller
measure and degree. R2795:5; OV214:4
Resurrection power resided in our Lord Jesus because in the divine plan it
was he who was to redeem the world by the sacrifice of himself and
consequently to restore it. R3754:3, 846:1
He only hath the keys of hades and can re-create from nothing the beings
that before existed and give them back the boon he purchased for every son
and daughter of Adam. R822:6*
Then he gave an illustration of his power in the awakening of Lazarus to
life. R846:5
All the hope of the world is in the resurrection, yet even Christians now
have little or no faith in it. R846:4
Not merely an awakening from death, but also such vitalization as would
overcome the dying process of disease and ultimately bring the revived one
up to the full perfection of being enjoyed in Eden. R3754:3, 3529:5,
1118:5*
A deeper thought is that we who now believe in the Lord are sometimes
spoken of as already having a new life, the resurrection life, as already
having passed from death into life. R4162:6
Anastasis here has the Greek article, showing emphasis and indicating the
first or special resurrection. The emphasis when used with anastasis
always marks the chief or spiritual resurrection. R1512:1
All of these procedures are of the Father, though through the Son and
through the Church. F399
Contrary to Christian Science teachings. HG700:1*
And the life -- Others may indeed think that they have eternal life in
themselves, that by some inherent, immortal principle they will live
forever. R3795:2
He that believeth -- All mankind, through Jesus, will be made alive. No
one will come up to full perfection of life without faith and obedience.
Q591:4; R1232:4
Only believers shall be resurrected, made to live, which is the full force
of the words "resurrection" and "life." R1231:3
Belief in the ransom will be necessary to the full acquirement of the
favor purchased, life. R1231:5
The preaching of the Gospel to all who hear it now is a savor of life unto
life or of death unto death, knowledge proving our condemnation if we do
not accept the free gift. R1965:4*
Yet shall he live -- Adam and Eve lived, had life in perfect measure,
before sin entered. When death entered, dying commenced. It was a process
of ceasing to live. R1231:3
John 11:26
Whosoever liveth -- The class referred to are reckoned dead to the human
will, nature, hope, etc., and are alive toward God as new creatures.
R473:3, 293:6
And believeth -- Then, after "living." F665
When awakened from death and brought to a knowledge of the truth, those
who believe in Jesus and who walk in obedience to his commandments, may
have life everlastingly. R846:5; Q592:T; NS670:5
If they believe, they will "never die." R1856:2
We make no claims of universal salvation; for the Scriptures speak of some
who will die the second death, having proven themselves not sufficiently
in harmony with righteousness to be worthy of eternal life. SM442:3
Shall never die -- Referring to those who will be fully made alive in
the resurrection. R1856:2
Not only is the resurrection power vested in our Lord, but also power to
keep the resurrected believers alive everlastingly. R1856:2
It is God's assurance that any who reach the condition of life may retain
it forever, if they shall forever continue to be believers. R1232:4
We have everlasting life by faith and must wait for its actual reception
until the resurrection. R1856:1
Will not die, but immediately, in the twinkling of an eye, be transferred
to the new body like unto Christ's spiritual body. R473:6, 294:1
Believest thou this? -- "Only believe" was the keynote of our Lord's
reply to Martha. So each of us must learn the lesson of faith and
confidence in the Lord's wisdom, love and power. R3529:5
John 11:32
If thou hadst been -- The same expression Martha had used. If the words
contain a measure of chiding or suggestion of wounded hopes, it was a very
delicate one. R3530:1
Likewise we are more or less inclined to think of what might have been if
something had been different, apt to forget that our Lord has full charge
of all our affairs, that no "if" or chance has to do with the Little
Flock. R3530:2
John 11:33
Weeping -- According to the Greek original, wailing. R4161:4

At the very moment of death, a wild, piercing shriek, high and prolonged,
a quavering wail announced the fact. The mourning continues violently for
three days. R3530:2
While a certain amount of the emotion was perfunctory, nevertheless it had
the element of sympathy for the bereaved, and illustrated the Apostle's
words, "The whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together,
waiting." (Rom. 8:22,23) R3530:2
Groaned in the spirit -- He was touched with a feeling of man's
infirmities. His perfect mind would make all his sensibilities more active
than ours, his sympathy would be stronger, his sense of pain keener.
R5103:6
John 11:34
Where have ye laid him? -- Not an indication that he did not know, but
rather that it was his polite manner of saying, Shall we now go to the
tomb? Lead the way. R4161:4
John 11:35
Jesus wept -- While the word used in connection with the weeping of the
others indicates wailing, it is not so with the Greek word which refers to
our Lord's weeping; he shed tears, but lifted not up his voice in grief.
R4161:5
Theirs was the weeping of wailing or emotion, our Lord's was the silent
tear of sympathy. R3530:3
In sympathy, not only with his bereaved friends, but also with the many
similar scenes of sorrow which must thus afflict mankind before the
dawning of the then far distant glorious day of resurrection. R1774:5;
OV212:9
Entering deeply into the affliction that is resting upon our race. Our
Lord is sympathetic, he knoweth our frame and remembereth that we are
dust. (Psa. 103:14) R4161:5, 3530:3
The tear of sympathy is not to be understood as a sign of weakness. R3530:3
How unlike all the great ones of this world, whose greatness is so often
represented in their coldness, stoicism, and really represents their
lovelessness, their lack of sympathy. R3530:3
Our Master himself has bidden us to weep with those who weep and rejoice
with those who rejoice. (Rom. 12:15) R3530:4
It was our helpless and pitiable condition as condemned sinners that
induced his tears. NS189:1
Our Lord's tears were shed chiefly in sympathy on behalf of others. He
forbade others to weep for him. (Luke 23:28) We also should be strong to
bear our own griefs, and tender to feel the sorrows and sins of others.
R1886:5*
Nevertheless great weeping and wailing are not appropriate to us, for, as
the Apostle says, "We sorrow not as others who have no hope."
(1Thess. 4:13) R3530:4
The tears of Jesus forbid the thought that Lazarus had been in heaven.
R3531:4
There is not a word throughout the Scripture to the effect that Jesus
laughed; the surroundings as viewed from his standpoint were too serious.
NS189:1
John 11:37
Could not this man -- So there are some today inclined to criticize the
Lord for permitting sickness, sorrow and death, and inquire whether the
power of God is lacking or the willingness of God lacking that he does not
restrain these adverse influences. R4161:5
John 11:38
To the grave -- A cave, the doorway of which was closed by a large

stone. R3530:4
John 11:39
Take ye away -- Of course, the same power that could awaken the dead,
would have been sufficient to roll away the stone also; but it is a rule
of the Lord never to do anything by miraculous power which could be as
well done by human agency. R4161:6, 3530:4
So when we come to our Lord with our griefs and ask for his blessing, we
should not expect any special intervention in matters that are possible to
us. Indeed, we doubtless would lose a blessing thereby. R4161:6, 3530:5
Martha -- The same Martha who a little while before had said, Even now I
know that whatsoever thou shalt ask of God, he will hear thee. R4161:6
He stinketh -- Decomposition has set in. OV334:3; R5578:2
We may assume that it was not the custom to embalm all the dead. R2795:6
John 11:40
See the glory -- Greek, optomai. The general significance of the word is
recognize. R140:6
Mary saw no glory; but she did see Lazarus raised, and in the power thus
displayed, she recognized the glory of God. R141:1
John 11:41
Lifted up his eyes -- In acknowledgment of the Father's power and that

he was acting as the Father's agent and representative. R3530:5, 4162:1
Father, I thank thee -- Here our Lord gave sanction to public prayer,
showing that when he objected to the prayers of the Pharisees on the
street corners it was because the time and place were unsuitable, and
because they prayed to be seen and heard of men. R4162:1
The Lord's prayers could not have been recorded if they had not been
heard; and the very object of their utterances in their presence was
evidently for their benefit and blessing. R2251:6
As the world return from the tomb, our thought is that they will come back
in answer to prayer, very much the same as did Lazarus. SM226:2
John 11:42
And I knew -- The Father was in loving sympathy with the Son, not
leaving him to bear any trial alone, but always granting him the light of
his countenance and a joyful sense of admiring approval. R3161:1
His prayer was in the nature of a conversation, as between a Son and his
Father. R3530:5
Thou hearest me always -- He never had a refusal because he always asked
the things in harmony with the Father's will. R5708:1
Our Lord kept the incense continually burning, and thus could say this. So
the under-priests will be heard always if they continually offer the
incense of faith, love and obedience to God. (Rev. 8:3) T120
A small minority who, in Christ, endeavor to do always those things which
please him, are able to approximate this sentiment expressed by him.
R1903:1
Because of the people -- That they might know that he did nothing of
himself, that he claimed nothing of himself. R3530:5
He was acknowledging the Father that all those who stood by might take
knowledge that not by his own power, but by the Father's power, as the
Finger of God, he worked these miracles. R4162:1, 3530:5
From this we may assume that it would have been entirely consistent on our
Lord's part to have proceeded to speak as the Father's representative
without offering prayer. R3530:5
For the same reason Pastor Russell permitted his friends to express
themselves with considerable freedom and laudation, as an offset to the
calumnies of the "false brethren" before the minds of newer readers.
R1659:3
That they may believe -- It is proper to pray before believers. R3698:5
Our Lord himself set us the example of offering prayer in public; not only
in the presence of his disciples frequently, but also in the presence of
unbelievers. R2023:3, 4162:1, 2251:6
Prayer influences all who join in it. Jesus and the apostles indicate that
it should be uttered in such a voice and manner as to enable those about
to appreciate and intelligently join it. R799:6, 2251:6
John 11:43
He cried -- Or, commanded in a loud voice. No secret mumbling, nor

incantation, or legerdemain. R4162:1
Come forth -- Jesus did not say, Lazarus, come down from heaven, nor did
he say, Lazarus, come up from below. R5611:6, 4552:6, 3531:4; HG135:6;
OV334:3; SM40:T
These restorations are never called a resurrection in Scripture. Its
meaning is broader and fuller than these partial resurrections. R360:2,
3531:1; OV352:1
Lazarus was not resurrected, he was merely awakened from the sleep of
death. Resurrection would signify the complete raising up out of sin and
death conditions, to perfection and life conditions. R3530:6, 5578:2
"The hour is coming in the which all that are in their graves shall hear
his voice and shall come forth" (John 5:28), but, unlike him, to be then
granted an opportunity for anastasis, raising up complete out of sin and
death conditions to the full perfection of human nature. R4162:4, 3531:1
The Church class will come forth to perfection of life on the spirit
plane. The world of mankind will come forth from the tomb imperfect, and
will have to prove their worthiness of eternal life. SM40:1
Coming forth is one thing, resurrection is another. R4552:6
Though it is true that all that are in their graves shall "come forth,"
they will come forth with a small measure of life, such as men now have.
R1231:3
"Thou shalt call and I will answer thee, thou wilt have respect to the
work of thy hands." (Job 14:15) NS234:1
John 11:44
He that was dead -- Mark well that it was not the living that came
forth, but that Lazarus was really dead. R4552:6
Came forth -- The most notable miracle which our Lord performed. R4552:4
Where was Lazarus? What account did he give of himself? Not a word is
there written on the subject. He had no account to give of himself; he was
nowhere, he was dead. R4162:3, 3531:4, 1880:6
How strange it would be, if after he had been in heaven for several days,
Jesus should do him the unfriendly act of calling him back to earth life.
R4162:4; E345; HG332:1
He was quickened by our Lord's power and authority. OV214:1
But later Lazarus died again. This is proof that the death of the
condemned one does not make reconciliation for sin, nor entitle to a
release from its penalty. R392:1
A picture, a demonstration, of the power of the Lord to testify in advance
of how he eventually will be the resurrection power to the whole world.
R4162:3, 4335:6
A foreshadowing, and therefore in a sense as typifying or illustrating the
resurrection. R4603:4, 4552:4
Bound hand and foot -- In a measure bound, though loosely; what we would
call, swathed. R3530:4
With graveclothes -- Or, the winding sheet customary at that time.
R3530:4
Loose him -- For in his burial his jaw had been bound and his limbs
wrapped. R4162:2
This case, and that of Jairus' daughter (Mark 5:43), indicate that the
revived ones will require clothing, nourishment and assistance, and will
acquire strength gradually. R734:2
A refutation of the claim that it would be impossible to provide food and
raiment for so many. SM36:1
This miracle was intensified by the fact that he permitted those about him
to do as much as was in their power in connection with the miracle: first,
the rolling away of the stone; and here the loosing of the binding sheet.
R3530:4
John 11:45
Which came to Mary -- After Jesus had called forth Lazarus from the
tomb, Mary's faith, love and zeal were revived and intensified. Her faith
had been sorely tried and tested, and had finally triumphed. R5230:3
Believed on him -- No wonder. It would be wonderful indeed that they
could disbelieve under such conditions. R3530:6
John 11:48
All men will believe -- Fancying that the teachings of Jesus, if allowed
to proceed, would certainly awaken the people to a faith in the Messianic
Kingdom. They thought of Jesus as an imposter, but feared that his
teachings would incite some kind of fanatical uprising. R5541:1
Fearing that the people would be so influenced by Jesus' teaching that
they themselves would avail nothing; that Rome would pay no attention to
the rabble, and that if they failed, God's cause in the earth would be
blotted out. R5676:3, 4162:2
Our place -- The clergy are as anxious now to perpetuate the
institutions of nominal Christianity as were the scribes and Pharisees and
Doctors of the Law anxious to perpetuate Judaism; and for the same
reasons. D163
John 11:49
Caiaphas -- Evidently the ringleader in the conspiracy against Jesus.

R2780:6
John 11:50
It is expedient -- Being outwardly and nominally a religious man and a

representative of justice, he felt constrained to put the murder of Jesus,
which he felt to be a necessity for the public good, in the light of an
act of justice. R2780:3
For us -- Caiaphas was probably only thinking of human expediency.
R2780:3
For the people -- For the good of the people. R1633:3, 4162:3
One man should die -- Not because they believed him a bad man, but
because they were so thoroughly wrapped up in their own plans and purposes
in connection with their nation. R4162:2
They seem to have been unanimous in believing that his destruction would
be for the good of the Lord's cause, as they understood that cause. R5540:6
Nation perish not -- He realized that the teachings of Jesus were
opposed to the general traditions of Judaism, and that their acceptance
must mean a religious revolution. This, he reasoned, would mean the loss
of prestige of the nation with the Romans, and the abrogation of all their
rights and privileges. R2780:3, 5676:3
The difficulty was that they had a wrong view of God's cause and of their
nation. They were leaving God out of the account. They were thinking that
they must do the whole thing. R5676:3, 4162:3
John 11:51
He prophesied -- Illustrating how God may at times use the thoughts and
intentions of wicked men to express prophetically profound truths.
R2780:3, 2470:2
But we have no intimation in the Scriptures, nor any reason for supposing,
that God ever used or recognized that church-nation, its rulers and
representatives after it was cast off. C181
The same is true in connection with Babylon. She is "spewed out" of the
Lord's mouth; and neither the voice of the Bridegroom nor of the Bride
shall be heard in her any more forever. (Rev. 3:16; 18:23) C181
It is not sufficient that we see certain facts; it is necessary also that
we be in heart-harmony with the Lord, else we might, like Caiaphas, aid in
fulfilling the Lord's plan, but nevertheless, taking a wrong position, may
be bringing ourselves, with others, under a curse. R2470:2
John 11:52
That nation only -- It was indeed expedient, not only for the Jews, but
also for the whole world, that a ransom should be given for Adam and his
race. R2780:3; E446
John 11:53
They took counsel -- Conspiring against the Master, as they supposed,

for God's glory. R5315:4
Similarly, in the end of this Gospel age, religious leaders, moved by
similar motives of self-preservation, may conspire for the smiting, the
injury, of some of the Lord's followers. R5315:4, 4162:3
What the Sanhedrin there did in determining to oppose Jesus, the
federation of churches will probably do in the way of opposing Present
Truth. R4162:3
To put him to death -- The religious leaders had murder in their hearts.
It was merely a question of how they could accomplish the murder and
deceive the people, so as not to provoke those who had begun to exercise
faith in Jesus. R5541:1
But this determination was to be kept quiet. The chief priests and rulers
worked secretly. R5230:5
We are not to suppose that these learned men got out into the streets with
the people and hurrahed for Barabbas and shouted against Jesus; but rather
that they incited the rabble, and themselves assumed a more dignified line
of conduct. R5676:2
Jesus continued his work until the whole city was in an uproar and the
order-loving scribes and Pharisees had him executed. R1633:3 11:55
To purify themselves -- The appropriateness of the still greater
purifying of all who accept the New Covenant must be evident. R2022:4
John 12
John 12:1
Six days before -- On Sunday afternoon. R4212:1

The Jewish Sabbath, which ended at six o'clock in the evening. R2447:3
They probably arrived on what corresponded to our Friday, or the Jewish
sixth day of the week. R3534:2
To Bethany -- To the home of Lazarus, Martha and Mary; called the house
of Simon the leper either because he was the father of the family, or the
husband of Martha, who at this time was a widow. R3534:2, 3363:3
Our Lord and his disciples were en route to Jerusalem, and Bethany was on
the way, in the suburbs. R3534:2 To whatever extent we have comfortable
surroundings, in that same proportion we need to be specially on guard
against the cares of this life and the deceitfulness of riches. R3534:6
Economically, the Bethany house was probably of a comfortable class. They
had their own home, their own tomb, and on this occasion Mary was able as
well as willing to spend considerable in honoring the Lord. R3534:5
Our Lord was a visitor in those parts, his home, to the extent that he
ever had one, being in Galilee, and the most of his time spent there.
R2448:1, 3363:3
The town is now called in Arabic El' Azireyeh, or the town of Lazarus.
R1395:3
About two miles from Jerusalem. R668:3
Where Lazarus was -- Also one of the table-guests. R2447:3
Whom he raised -- Greek, egeiro, simply meaning, "to awaken, arouse,
stir" (Liddell and Scott); used in speaking of temporary awakenings.
R1512:2
Probably the first visit the Lord had made to the Bethany home since that
great event. R3534:3
John 12:2
They made him -- In harmony with the Jewish rules governing in such
cases, the dishes were evidently prepared in advance, as Sabbath labor was
prohibited. R3534:3
A supper -- No ordinary supper, but in the nature of a feast or banquet
in our Lord's honor. R2448:1
On Sunday night. R4212:1
On the eve of the Jewish Sabbath. R3852:2, 2447:3
Saturday night, the evening following the Jewish Sabbath, after six p.m.
R3534:2
Martha served -- The two sisters evidently had the matter planned
between them: Martha served at the table and Mary served in an especial
manner with the ointment. R3534:6
John 12:3
A pound -- Nearly a pint, the Roman pound being twelve ounces. R2448:2
Of ointment -- A misimpression: the word perfume would more nearly
describe the liquid used. R3535:1, 2448:1
Hers was a literal perfume and in time lost its virtue; but the little
acts of kindness and helpfulness we may render one to another will never
lose their merit in the estimation of the Lord, nor their fragrance in the
estimation of each other. R3536:3
The sweetest perfume that the home circle ever knows arises from the deeds
of loving service which its members do for each other. R2448:6
Very costly -- The amount that love is willing to expend for others is,
to some extent at least, a measure of the love. R2448:2
The use of such expensive perfumes was very rare; indeed, even the
emperors used it sparingly, but when used it was generally poured upon the
head. R3535:1
Nero was the first of the Emperors to indulge in the use of costly
perfumes for his anointing. R2448:2
Considered in the light of the odor and blessing which it has shed upon
all of the Lord's people, Mary's alabaster box of precious perfume, very
costly, has proven to be extremely cheap. R3535:2
And anointed -- It is not our privilege to come into personal contact
with our dear Redeemer. It is our privilege to anoint the Lord's
"brethren" with the sweet perfume of love; and the more costly as respects
our self-denials, the more precious it will be in the estimation of our
Elder Brother. R2448:5
Those who bring the alabaster boxes of the perfume of praise and
thanksgiving very generally have little to ask. Rather, they realize that
they are already debtors. R3535:4
The feet -- Our Lord, reclining at the table, both his head and feet
were conveniently accessible to Mary, who proceeded to anoint first his
head and afterward his feet with the ointment. R3535:1
John seems to have forgotten entirely the anointing of our Lord's head, so
deeply was he impressed with the still more expressive devotion manifested
in the anointing of the feet and the wiping with the hair. R2448:4
The entire Church of Christ, in the largest sense, is the "body of
Christ." The Mary class would rather purchase perfume at a great cost
whereby to serve the anointed Church, than to spend it upon themselves.
R3536:2
Not only was the Head of the body anointed, perfumed, but all of the
members of the body since have likewise received a blessing from the
spikenard Mary class. R3536:2
It is our privilege to pour the perfume upon the feet of Christ, the last
members of his Church of this Gospel age. R2448:5
We may all be of the Mary class as well as of the feet class. In other
words, each member of the body may to some extent serve the fellow-members
of the body, the fellow-members of the feet, as Mary served the feet of
Jesus. R3536:3
Not to imply any neglect of our natural families, but our interests and
efforts are not to be confined to those of fleshly ties, but to
be "especially to the household of faith." (Gal. 6:10) R2448:6
Wiped his feet -- Those feet which had trodden the valleys and hillsides
of Palestine, and that were so weary at times, symbolize the feet of
consecration treading the narrow way. They soon would be pierced with
nails on the cross, but now highly honored by one which appreciated and
trusted them. R3536:1
She could not put him on the throne of earth, but she would show that she
was his devoted servant forever. She showed her devotion to the best of
her ability. R3535:2
With her hair -- She took woman's chief ornament and devoted it to
wiping the travel-stained feet of her teacher. She devoted the best she
had to even the least honorable service for him. R2448:4
The feet, recognized as the humblest members of the human frame, and the
woman's hair, recognized as her special treasure, are brought together in
a way which signifies that Mary esteemed her Lord as infinitely above and
beyond her. R3535:2
The Church are to wash one another's feet, not in the rudest and clumsiest
manner imaginable, but with appreciation symbolized by Mary's spikenard,
and in the love and solicitation represented in her using the very locks
of her head. R3536:4
With the odour -- And we doubt not that the odor remained for a long
time; but far more precious was the sweet odor of Mary's heart-
affections. R2448:5
Ours is a sacrifice of sweet odor unto God; but the Gospel refers to it as
of life unto life to some, and of death unto death to others. (2 Cor.
2:16) R3537:1
John 12:4
Then saith one -- Matthew says "the disciples." Mark says, "There were
some." John mentions Judas only. Quite probably all the accounts are
correct. Judas, no doubt was the instigator. R3535:3, 2448:3
Judas Iscariot -- At Bethany, the sweet odors that filled the house had
a very different effect upon Judas. R3537:4
Nothing appeals to us more than does the evident unselfishness of the
Master and his specially chosen ones, Judas being the only exception, and
his avarice cost him his fall. F286
John 12:5
Why was not -- It is necessary to be economical, not extravagant, as in

the gathering of the fragments of broken bread after feeding the
multitude. But the person who is economical in his dealings with the Lord
is the loser thereby. R3535:3
It is for us to learn to be economical in respect to our own affairs, and
to be liberal to the extent of extravagance in matters which pertain to
the Lord and his service. R3535:4
Money is not the only thing of which people are sorely in need; some need
love and sympathy who do not need money. R2448:3
It is the deep, loving hearts like that of Mary, which delight in costly
sacrifices at times, which are also likely to be deeply sympathetic and
helpful to the physically poor. R2448:3
The love of money and the begging system of Babylon today is much against
its powerful influence; and the absence of this spirit amongst the Lord's
faithful now, as at the first advent, tells much in their favor. F286
Three hundred pence -- Greek, denarii. One denarius is represented as
being the average daily wage at that time. (Matt. 20:2) R2448:2
Probably not an extreme valuation, worth about six dollars. Then the
silver penny represented a day's labor and three hundred pence would
practically represent the labor of a year. R5541:4
About $48. R3535:1
About $50. R3877:5
The equivalent in wages of $150 of our money. R2448:2
Given to the poor -- Judas thought to himself, There are the poor; I am
the poor one. Q616:1
John 12:6
He was a thief -- As though he were a deliberate thief. When the Lord

had been telling them that he would be crucified, Judas was thinking at
the time about the money. Q616:1
The beginning of his downfall was the harboring of a love of money.
R4906:2, 2779:3
The difficulty with him being that he loved the Lord too little and money
too much. R2448:2
The selfish spirit not only led him to rob the Lord and his
fellow-disciples, but eventually led him to think of how he could obtain
money from the priests for the betrayal of the Master. R4487:6 His passion
for money, like all other abnormal propensities of our fallen nature, grew
stronger as it was encouraged, until finally he was ready to sell his
loving Master for thirty pieces of silver. R4906:2, 2779:3; Q616:1 Some of
the Lord's brethren may be killed, symbolically, as the Master was
actually betrayed and killed, by the "money-lovers." R2045:5
Judas is probably not the only person who has plead for the poor and at
the same time sought to divert funds to himself. R5541:2
In many instances people who are so careful lest money should be spent
except for the poor are often like Judas, so avaricious that whatever
money gets into their possession very little of it gets to the poor.
R2448:3
Doubtless, even when appropriating the moneys contributed to the support
of the little company of disciples, Judas could have some plausible
excuse; for sin is always deceptive. R5552:3, 4488:1
Judas began to feel that if he was not to sit upon the throne as at first
expected, he had best be "feathering his nest" financially, so that
however matters may go with the others, he would not have made such a
failure as they. R4487:6, 3887:5
It is possible for any consecrated one to let himself go and allow wrong
motives to rule in his heart. I do not think this is possible for anyone
who is loyal to the Lord. Q616:1
Not at first, but afterward apparently, did the disciples learn that
Judas, who carried the treasurer's bag, was a thief. R5552:3 Had the bag
-- We may surmise that he chose the office of treasurer for the little
company, whereas, had he been sufficiently alive to his own weakness, his
proper course would have been to refuse it. R4906:2, 2779:3
Accustomed to voluntary giving to the Levites, the Jews evidently extended
this usage to everything religious that appealed to them as being of God.
F286
They evidently never lacked; though it is equally evident that they never
solicited alms. F286
Bare what was put therein -- The Revised Version renders it: "He was a
thief, and having the bag, took away what was put therein." R3535:3
"He was a thief and had the box, and stole what things were deposited in
it." (Diaglott) R2448:3
John 12:7
Let her alone -- Trouble her not, take it not from her, as though when
the first motion was made to use the spikenard, the apostles had wished to
have it spared that they might sell it. "Hinder her not." R3536:1
In the nature of a severe reproof to those whose sentiments of love had no
other measure than that of money. R2448:3
The day of my burying -- A little while and his sufferings would be
ended and he would be glorified, beyond the veil, beyond the power of
human attention. R3536:1
If Mary had waited another week she might have used the perfume upon
herself, but not upon the Lord. R3536:5
Flowers on the coffin cast no fragrance backward on the weary road.
R3537:1, 2449:4
John 12:8
The poor always ye have -- Indeed there were plenty of poor, and there
would still be plenty of poor, and plenty of opportunities to minister to
them; but the opportunity to specially honor the Lord would not be for
long. R2448:3
Many of them have been the Lord's precious ones. Poverty has proven itself
a blessing in many ways in many senses of the word under present
conditions. R3535:6
There will be other and future opportunities of doing good to mankind in
general, but the opportunity for serving "the body of Christ" is limited
to the present age. R2448:6
Looking into the future, we rejoice to know that under the reign of the
Kingdom, there will be no more poor, no more sorrow, no more want.
R3535:6; Q813:4
Me ye have not -- Our Lord, his own heart full of love, found
comparatively little companionship even amongst his apostles. In Mary he
seemed to find the depth of love and devotion which was to him an odor of
sweet incense. R2448:4
John 12:9
They came -- The next day probably. R3537:4

That they might see -- And when they had seen, the people were convinced
that this must be the Messiah, the king long foretold by the prophets; and
upon the spur of their convictions, they acknowledged him publicly as
their king. R668:6
Three and a half years of public teaching and works, ending with the
raising of Lazarus, culminated in a seeming triumph which raised high the
hopes of his disciples and many in Israel that their king had indeed come.
R1795:1, 668:6; B111
John 12:10
To death -- Who was a living witness to Jesus' Messianic power. R2448:1

"For the good of the cause." This has nearly always been the basis for
every mean and despicable act against the truth from first to last. Let us
beware of such a sectarian spirit. R3537:4
John 12:12
On the next day -- On Monday forenoon. R4212:1

The first day of the week--Sunday. R3852:2, 2447:6
Just five days before his crucifixion. (See verse 1) R839:2, 465:3, 211:3*
As the high priest leaves the holy on the tenth day of the seventh month,
he starts from heaven; five days before the fifteenth, as when going to
Jerusalem. HG73:3
Typified by the choosing of the Passover lamb on the tenth day, four days
before his crucifixion. And it was on that very date that our Lord offered
himself as their King, riding into the city on the colt. R5191:4, 2270:6,
1289:4 NS74:5
Much people -- Not only from every quarter of Palestine, but from
Babylon, Egypt, Greece and Spain. It is estimated that at some of these
Passover feasts a couple of millions assembled within and on the outskirts
of Jerusalem. R3537:3
John 12:13
Branches of palm trees -- Fernlike in shape and sometimes ten feet long.
These were symbols of rejoicing and honor, symbols representing in this
case that our Lord was the hero of the hour, whom they delighted to
distinguish. R3538:1
Fulfilling the prophecy of Zech. 9:9. B224; R2447:6, 1795:1; Q522:7
Palm Sunday was not established by the Roman Catholic Church, it was given
to us by Jesus centuries before there was a Catholic Church; likewise, if
any desire to keep Good Friday as a remembrancer of Christ's death, I have
no objection. Q522:7
To meet him -- Evidently divine providence had much to do with this
entire arrangement, the meeting of the two companies, etc. R3537:6
Hosanna -- The word Hosanna is a word of praise and confidence and
expectancy and very closely resembles in thought the word hallelujah.
R3538:2
There was a joyous uproar of praise and thankfulness to God; they were
carried away with the enthusiasm of the moment. R3538:1
Jesus knew that the shout now around him, gladly hailing him as the
Messenger of the Covenant, would be disconcerted by the wolves--that they
would be fearful of their own lives and interests. R3538:3, 1795:2
He knew that their unstable and fickle minds, swayed by false teachers,
and unwilling to act upon their convictions in the face of opposition,
would only a few days later cry, Crucify him! Crucify him! R1795:2
Blessed is -- Their hearts were right. They had not yet been spoiled by
the doubts and fears of human wisdom. R3538:1
So it sometimes is with the Lord's people today. In the simplicity of our
hearts we see precious promises in his Word and are ready to believe them;
then the Adversary brings along objections, fears and doubts. R3538:2
The King of Israel -- For over sixteen centuries, since they had come
into Canaan, they had been waiting for Messiah. The majestic personality
of our Lord fitted to their grandest conceptions of Immanuel. R3538:1
The term "Jew" had come to be synonymous with the term "Israel." Pilate
wrote for the cross, "Jesus, the King of the Jews;" while here the people
shouted, "Blessed is the King of Israel." R2085:1
Evidence that the House of Israel was no longer regarded by our Lord and
the apostles as the "ten tribes" merely. R1341:1; C293
John 12:14
Ass -- Donkey. R3537:6
John 12:15
Thy King cometh -- It was on account of the covenant of God with their
fathers that Jesus, instructed by the prophecies, offered himself to
fleshly Israel as their King. R1795:1
The triumphal entry prefigured the coming of Christ as King, in the end of
this Gospel age, 1878 AD, which is the antitype of the Jewish age, the two
being exact parallels in both time and circumstances. R1795:2
A message to test the people. C136
John 12:16
Understood not -- A detailed reference of a number of statements which

were fulfilled in Jesus, but mixed up with other statements not specially
applicable to him, that they might never have been so applied had not the
holy Spirit brought them to the attention of the apostles. R435:3
John 12:19
The Pharisees -- The "rulers." R4351:6

Gone after him -- Our expectation is that the truth will have a very
brief season of wonderful prosperity, which will draw the attention of
Christendom to it through the pens and tongues of foes. R4351:6
John 12:20
Certain Greeks -- These Greeks were Jewish proselytes, hence not

permitted to approach nearer the holy places than the Court of the
Gentiles. R2757:3
Many Greeks were attracted to the early Christian Church because they
recognized the wisdom of some of our Lord's teachings. His Sermon on the
Mount, for instance, appealed strongly to their philosophical minds. NS41:2
The movement started by these Greeks continued for several centuries, and
there was quite a commingling of the Greeks and Christians, to such an
extent that Grecian philosophy engrafted many of its tenets upon Christian
doctrine. NS41:4
Among them -- Our Lord continued his teachings in the Temple daily after
his triumphal entry, going to Bethany at night, and returning to the
Temple each morning during the few days that intervened prior to his
arrest and crucifixion. R2757:3, 3539:6
John 12:21
To Philip -- They naturally enough went to Philip and Andrew, whose

names of Greek origin implied that they had a knowledge of the Greek
language. R3539:6
Probably the only two of the disciples who spoke Greek, they coming from
Bethsaida in which the Greek language was considerably used. R2757:3
Desired him -- Our Lord was at this time in a part of the Temple
inaccessible to any except Jews by birth. R2757:3
Realizing that the Lord was not appreciated by his hearers, they
apparently thought to invite him to go with them to their homes. R3539:6
Eusebius, a church historian of early days, relates that an emissary was
sent to Jesus by the king of Edessa, Syria, inviting him to take up his
abode with him, and promising him a royal welcome. R2757:6
We would see Jesus -- Their request was that Jesus come out to where
they were for an interview. R2757:3
Our Lord doubtless responded to their request for an interview, but the
subject of their converse has not been considered necessary for the
Church, and hence has not been recorded. R2757:6
John 12:23
Answered them -- We do not presume that our Lord's words here were
addressed to the Greeks, but rather that a break in the narrative occurs.
R2757:6
Probably after the interview with the Greeks the apostles' hearts
anticipated that the world would shortly exalt their Master to the
Messianic position and them as joint-heirs in the Kingdom. R2758:1
Jesus sought to prepare them in a measure to receive the coming
disappointment, talking of the necessity of entire consecration, even unto
death, and that the Father would reward and honor such service. R669:1
The hour is come -- To show how his sufferings of the immediate future
were the foundation upon which all the future glory must rest. R2758:1
His heart, fully consecrated, was merely waiting for the opportunity to
finish the work which the Father had given him to do. R3539:6
At no other time was it possible for our Lord to have finished in death
the sacrifice which he began when he was thirty; hence, though the Jews
often sought to take him, no man could because "his hour was not yet fully
come." (John 7:30) NS74:4
Not sixty minutes, just as "day" does not always signify 24 hours, but a
comparatively short period. As compared with "Jesus' day," these
experiences were properly enough said to occur in an "hour," or short
time. R2758:2
Should be glorified -- The disciples at first would take this as
intimating his earthly exaltation, but he speedily drew their attention to
the fact that while the beginning of this glorification was near, it must
be preceded by the suffering of death. R2758:1
John 12:24
Verily, verily -- Truly, truly; most positively; emphatically. R2758:2

Except a corn -- The grain of wheat was himself, "the man Christ Jesus."
He alone had life. R729:1
In furnishing a reason for his death, the Lord drew an illustration from
nature, likening himself to the seed grain whose death becomes a source of
life to many grains of like kind. R1238:2
A dark saying. No wonder that the apostles and the Jews were mystified by
such statements of the truth. R3539:6
And die -- The grain of wheat which dies never revives, never rises; it
is gone forever, it has ceased to be; its life is given as a substitute
for the lives of the grains which receive their life and nature instead of
it. R1238:2, 729:1
This illustration shows only the death of the man Christ Jesus as our
ransom price; it does not show his previous condition as a spirit being,
nor his subsequent exaltation. R1238:3, 729:4
Jesus did fall into the earth and die. We become sharers with him in his
death, which the world will never do. They share in its outcome. R5343:4
It abideth alone -- Had our Lord chosen to do so, he at one time had the
privilege of remaining alone--of not dying on our behalf. If he had done
so, he could have brought forth no fruitage. R2758:2, 1238:3
As in the natural life Christ was alone (he had no Church, then); so Adam
was alone for a time. R67:6*
But if it die -- If Jesus had kept his life, had not sacrificed it, he
might indeed have maintained it forever, but would not in that event been
privileged to bestow life upon the Church and the world. R3540:1
Much fruit -- Our Lord Jesus was the only kernel which had a germ of
life, the only man who had a right to life since Adam lost his rights by
disobedience. R1238:3
The immediate fruitage of our Lord's death was the bringing forth of the
Church and the "household of faith." R4354:3
His death brings forth choice fruit in his Church, and indirectly, the
fruitage will be still larger, for his disciples are invited to lay down
their lives with him--the resulting fruitage will mean a larger crop in
the age to come. R3540:1, 729:5
Our Lord's going down into death brought forth the first fruits, the
Church, the 144,000. If the Church brings forth the same in proportion,
that number would bring forth 144,000 times 144,000, or 20,736,000,000.
R3626:5*, 3540:1
All the work of this Gospel age is the getting ready of the food for the
world. R5343:4
If a grain of wheat is planted and dies, it brings forth other grains like
itself, and never produces grains of another kind or sort. R1238:2
All the blessings which result directly from our Lord's death are human
and earthly. R1238:5
The man Christ gave all that he had in order to reproduce the human race
lost in death through Adam. R729:3
"There shall be an handful of corn in the earth upon the top of the
mountains; the fruit thereof shall shake like Lebanon." (Psa. 72:16)
R4354:3
John 12:25
Loveth his life -- That loves to keep it after having consecrated it to

sacrifice. R729:3
Supremely loveth. R669:5
That is to say, if we esteem highly our present existence we will not be
willing to lay down our lives in the Lord's service in the hope of future
life, seen only by the eye of faith. R3540:1
Those who would be the followers of, and sharers with, Jesus, must during
this world willingly lay down existence in his service. R667:5
A new creature is no longer to be controlled by phileo or duty-love toward
earthly life, but, moved by agapee love, he is to willingly lay down his
natural life in the service of God--"for the brethren." R2807:2
Greek, psuche--soul, being. E337
Life is the Greek psuche. Young defines it and the corresponding Hebrew
nephesh to mean "animal soul," limiting the word to earthly existence; but
we cannot agree with this definition. R667:1
Being, or existence, is not life, neither is it body or organism, though
both are needed. Heat is a good illustration: coal is not heat, nor is
oxygen heat; but properly united they produce heat. R667:1
Shall lose it -- Prove himself unworthy of the future existence God has
proffered us, unworthy to have his soul, his being, restored in the first
resurrection. E337
If now, after consecrating his life, voluntarily engaging to sacrifice
himself in accord with his Father's will; if he should love his life he
should lose it. R2758:3
This verse was applicable to our Lord alone, and not to his followers, for
they had no life to lose. R2758:3
As soon as the ransom was given, the redeemed ones could be reckoned as
having life-rights which they could consecrate and exchange for the
heavenly life, following in the footsteps of Jesus. R2758:3
Hateth his life -- Greek, psuche--soul, being. E337
Is willing to sacrifice it. R729:3
Faithfulness to God under present evil conditions necessarily means
dissatisfaction with present conditions, and a willingness to sacrifice
them all in the service of God. E337
Subordinates. R667:5
He must indeed despise the present life in comparison with the future and
eternal one which the Father had promised him as a reward for obedience
unto death. R2758:3
In this world -- The Lord's words do not apply beyond the Gospel age. In
the Millennial age things will be greatly reorganized. The Lord limits
this matter, saying, "in this world"--that is, this kosmos or order of
things. R3540:4
Shall keep it -- Be accounted worthy of existence (soul, being) under
the more favorable conditions of the dispensation to come. E337
Thus they can preserve their (psuche) existence unto eternal (zoe) life.
But with them as with him, it will not be the same kind of existence.
R667:5, 53:2*
Shall have it. R729:3
John 12:26
Serve me -- The idea of service is one which is becoming more and more
obnoxious to the minds of all classes of people, the understood motto
being, The least possible service for the largest compensation. R1707:3
The reverse of this is the spirit of Christ, whose pleasure it was, in the
execution of God's plan of salvation, to render the greatest possible
service without money and without price. (Isa. 55:1) R1707:6
The only men and women worthy of remembrance when they have passed away
are those who have faithfully and ably served their fellow men, such as,
Moses, Elijah and Paul, and more recently, Washington and Lincoln. R1708:1
Follow me -- To serve Christ is to enlist under his captaincy in the
very service to which he devoted all his energies, even unto death--the
service of mankind along the exact lines of the divine plan. R1708:1
Let him sacrifice the human nature to which he is justified by my
sacrifice. R729:6
Follow him in this experience--the consecration and then the despising of
his earthly existence compared with the spirit life and the heavenly glory
promised. R2758:3
Our Lord Jesus was not only the Redeemer, but also the Great Shepherd and
Guide of his followers. SM629:1
He does not say, Go in yonder way of humiliation and self-sacrificing
service; but he says, Come, follow where I have led the way! I have not
despised humble service, and the servant is not greater than his lord.
R1708:1
There shall also -- Whosoever will suffer with him during this Gospel
age will attain to the same divine nature, the same glory, the same
immortality--the difference being that our Lord will always be Head over
all. R5621:4, 5588:4, 3540:4, 1708:4
Servant -- Disciple. R5588:4
Serve me -- Share with me in this service. R729:6
The same thought is expressed by Paul when he speaks of filling up that
which is behind of the afflictions of Christ. (Col. 1:24) R729:6
Father honour -- All such will receive abundance of honor in due time,
but the crown must not be looked for until the cross has been borne to the
end. R1708:5
The Father honored the Son because of his faithfulness unto death. Those
who faithfully walk in his steps the Father will surely honor as he
honored Jesus, whom he raised from the dead to glory, honor and
John 12:27
My soul troubled -- While the world's representative crisis was reached

at the time appointed for Jesus to lay down his life in sacrifice, it was
also a crisis to him as an individual. R669:6
My feelings are turbulent; I am in a commotion. R2758:6
At that critical hour the whole world's salvation hung upon the shoulders
of the trembling, suffering Lord. R669:2
To Jesus, undeluded by Satan's sophistries, death was a bitter cup. He
knew of death as the great enemy. R729:2
No wonder if when he came to Gethsemane, he again found it needful to go
to the Father for help to do his will. R146:6
Father, save me -- Spare me. R729:1
Shall I pray, Father, deliver me from this hour? Shall I not, on the
contrary, remember that for this very cause I am come to this hour.
R2758:6, 669:1
Prayer proper before believers and unbelievers. R3698:5, 2252:1
From this hour -- From death! R729:1
But -- But no. R669:1
For this cause -- Or purpose, to sacrifice. R729:3
He had come to this dread hour for the very purpose of suffering death.
R669:1
He undoubtedly knew of his own pre-human existence. R146:2
John 12:28
Glorify thy name -- Faith questioned but for a moment, when his
knowledge and past experience triumphed and he answers, Father, do as
seemeth to thee best. R729:2
In thine own way, at whatever the cost to me. R2758:6, 3161:3 Jesus'
self-denial meant the relinquishment of all desires to accomplish his
beneficent work by any methods that might glorify himself, and a complete
surrender of his own will to that of the Father. R814:4*
A voice from heaven -- God does not today speak to his people by such an
audible voice; but he speaks none the less forcibly to us--through his
Word and through his providences. Yet, now as then, some hear and
appreciate more than others. R2759:1
Such a voice was heard on three different occasions: here, at the time of
our Lord's baptism, and on the mount of transfiguration. R2237:4
It -- "I have already glorified [honored] thee, and I will glorify
[honor] thee additionally." (Vatican MS) F66; R5269:1
And will glorify -- Our Lord's present condition in the heavenly, the
spirit condition, is not only as high a condition as before he came into
the world, but still higher. R5269:1
John 12:29
It thundered -- A voice which some understood, and others misunderstood,

as is always the case with the voice of God. The world hears no message;
believers hear partially; but begotten ones, in full accord with the
Father, hear and understand fully. R2758:6
The voices from heaven, while understood and appreciated by some as
attestations of our Lord's acceptance with the Father, were by others
variously attributed. So it is with every manifestation of divine truth.
R2237:5
We use this same form of expression today. If someone speaks in a low or
indistinct voice, we say that we did not hear. We mean that although we
heard the voice, we did not understand or comprehend it. R2117:6
John 12:30
Not because of me -- No doubt our Lord received a blessing through this

message from the Father, and yet it was not sent specially for him. R2759:1
John 12:31
Now -- Now, notwithstanding the fact that it would be centuries before

these things would be accomplished. R2759:4
By the arrangement of Christ's death, Satan is to be cast out. By this
means will finally be accomplished the judgment of this world. R433:5*
He evidently meant by "now" the same as in his previous expression, "The
hour is come." (verse 23) But a little space of time now intervened until
this would be accomplished. R2759:2
When our Lord Jesus by obedience upheld the Law, and proved that it was
within the range of a perfect man's ability to keep it, he thereby
"condemned sin in the flesh" (Rom. 8:3), and incidentally condemned
Satan's entire rule. R3032:2
There could be no individual judgment until there was individual untainted
life, and there was no individual untainted life until Christ brought it
in. R1328:5*
In another sense, the world is now passing judgment upon its rulership and
condemning it. The world, by acclamation, will cast out the prince of this
world, and the universal desire will be for a different ruler. R518:6* The
final judgment of all mankind began with the Head of the Church, who, of
course, passed his trial triumphantly. HG40:3
The judgment or testing of this world is now about to begin. R1226:3
The Lord uses the word "now" in the sense of applying it to the whole time
from Christ's first to his second coming; as though he had said, the time
to "begin" the work of salvation has come. R518:4*
Is the judgment -- Most authorities have it, Is a judgment. R517:6
Greek, krisis, or trial. R2759:2
The same Greek word from which our English word "crisis" is derived, and
to which the same exact meaning is given, the turning point. R668:3
From the moment that Jesus said, "It is finished" (John 19:30), and died,
the crisis was past. That was the great turning point. R669:2
As judgment means trial, it follows that where probation ends, the
judgment ends. With the gospel Church it ends at death; and with the world
it will end with their time of trial. HG40:5
As in a crisis of a disease, the patient may be entirely unaware of the
change which takes place at the critical moment, yet it may be clearly
discerned by the skilled physician, so with the world's crisis. R669:3
The world has passed through two crises in its two representatives, Adam
and Jesus, though unaware of both. R669:4, 1328:5
As the crisis with Adam was followed by the krima, or sentence of death,
so this crisis is followed by the krima, or sentence which came by the one
man Christ Jesus, unto "justification to life." (Rom. 5:17-19) R669:4
The Greek here for judgment is the same word as in Matt. 11:24, and that
class of texts; and evidently refers to the final and decisive judgment.
HG40:3
The first trial took place in Eden, father Adam being the one who was on
trial; now Jesus was on trial and the fate of the whole world was in the
balance and depended upon his victory. R2759:2, 669:2
Satan and his rulership of disorder and sin had received no particular
sentence or rebuke from the Lord up to this time. R3032:1
Of this world -- The order of things then in vogue and still in vogue,
was condemned, sentenced to overthrow, from the time that our Lord Jesus
was lifted up. R3032:4
Society, as at present organized under civil and so-called religious
restraint, is to be dissolved. R716:1*
The great overthrow of Satan, and the great liberation of mankind has been
delayed, waiting for the gathering out of the elect, the full lifting up
of the whole Body of Christ. R3032:4
Prince of this world -- Or, age. CR78:1 The prince of darkness. R2976:5
Satan, who fell from his holy estate and became the adversary of God
through unholy ambition, has blinded the minds of mankind. R5909:3, 3032:1
There are three great ages in the Bible: "the world that was" (2 Pet.
3:6), "the world that now is," and "the world to come." (Heb. 2:5) "The
world that now is," or "present evil world" (Gal. 1:4), is the one over
which Satan is the "Prince" or ruler. (2 Cor. 4:4) Q826:6; NS70:6
It is because Satan is the ruler over this present order of things that it
is termed an "evil world." Q827:T; R4350:3, 3032:4, 2303:4
He is not the Church's adversary alone, but that of all mankind. F611
Who now dominates the world and who sways fallen men by ignorance,
superstition and fear. R1226:3, 5304:3
Unwittingly represented, not by murderous thugs, but by very intelligent,
cultivated, refined people, who under various names represent the wisdom
of this world, the aristocracy and wealth of this world. NS377:3
Who now operates through the disobedient, through those not in harmony
with God, who constitute the vast majority in Christendom and elsewhere.
OV246:3
Not by right, but by usurpation; through fraud, deception and control of
fallen men. It is because he is a usurper that he will be summarily
deposed. Had he a real title as prince of this world, he would not thus be
dealt with. A250
Not by divine commission, but by getting possession of mankind through
misrepresentation of darkness as light, he has so blinded the world that
he easily held the position of master of "god of this world." (2 Cor. 4:4)
E113
Our own flesh does not oppose us from bitterness or hatred; the opposition
of the world is likewise not malicious; Satan alone is the willful,
intelligent plotter and schemer. F611
This age is the one in which evil, as personified in Satan, prevails, and
in which the Lord's cause and his people are more or less set at naught.
HG681:2; NS71:1
In contrast with Jesus, the Prince or Ruler of the coming age, the
Millennial age. OV246:3
We would not at all agree with Wakefield's suggestion, as given in the
Diaglott footnote (on John 14:30). R3032:1
His kingdoms are falsely called "Kingdoms of God." R720:5
How absurd to say that the present governments are of divine appointment,
or Christian governments in any sense. R362:4
A detailed contrast between Satan's reign and the reign of Christ. R492:2
Jesus refers to himself as the Prince or Ruler of the coming age, the
Millennial age. CR78:1
Not a reference to Christ himself, nor the "judgment of this world" to his
trial before the Sanhedrin and Pilate, as some say. R519:1*
Be cast out -- From the moment of Jesus' death it was a settled thing
that Satan, the prince of this world, should be cast out. Satan's sentence
of ejectment was sealed at Calvary. R669:2
The trial now in progress in my own person will result not only in a
cancellation of the death sentence, but it will also result in the present
rule of evil in the hands of Satan. R2759:4
He shall be chained for the period of the Millennial reign, and shall
subsequently be destroyed. R2759:4
The casting out of the prince of this world would be the deliverance of
those held captive by him. Their resurrection will be their emancipation
not only from bondage in death, but from the yoke of Satan. R1082:4*
The casting out of Satan followed the redemptive work by Christ. He is
cast out so far as the Church is concerned: for we are not to allow Satan
or sin to bear rule in our mortal bodies. R3032:4
John 12:32
If I -- The drawing of mankind was dependent on the death, the lifting

up, of Christ. R1054:5
Showing that the decisive act which determined the change of rulership and
turned the condemnation from the world was the death of Christ. R669:3
Be lifted up -- Clearly the lifting up referred to was a lifting up at
the cross. R1054:2
To say that the lifting up of the Son of man meant his glorification--"I,
if I be glorified, will draw all men unto my glorified condition"--would
be a wresting of Scripture. R1054:2
It is a fact that our Lord Jesus after he was lifted up on the cross was
highly exalted, but this fact is not taught in this passage. R1054:3
He has indeed been lifted up on the cross, but only a few as yet
appreciate the fact; but he is to be lifted up in glory during the
Millennium, and then the message will go forth, "Look unto me, all ye ends
of the earth." (Isa. 45:22) NS568:6
The day is nearing when he who was lifted up at Calvary, and afterward
lifted up in resurrection power, will be manifested in power and great
glory. R5316:1
We do not claim that our Lord's lifting up to the glory of power was
separate or apart from his being lifted up on the cross. On the contrary,
"no cross, no crown." R4476:3
The fiery serpent of sin has bitten our race. We are all dying. Only by
exercise of faith in the Crucified One can any be healed. R5316:4
As the sin offering. R2467:4
The result of the lifting up of Christ will eventually be the drawing of
all men unto him. R1849:3
It will be the power of the cross of Christ, it will be the love of Christ
and of God there manifested, that will be the drawing power upon the
hearts of men. R1849:3
The same Greek words rendered "lifted up" are used in John 8:28 and John
3:14. R1054:2
Will draw all men -- "In due time," granting them blessed opportunities
for knowledge and blessing and restitution. R4507:4
Whether they hear or forbear, during the Millennium. R4476:2
This universal drawing belongs to the coming Millennial age. It will not
be the drawing of a few nor of a class, nor of a nation, as in the past,
but the drawing of all mankind, redeemed with the precious blood. E414
The drawing will continue throughout the Millennial age, until every
member of the race shall have felt its influence and all the willing and
obedient shall have been blessed, uplifted, restored to perfection. R4476:3
All men are not yet drawn to the Lord because the lifting up is not yet
complete. The Head was lifted up, not only at Calvary, but subsequently
was highly exalted. His Body must finish their course and also be highly
exalted. R4148:2, 4476:3
Not that all men will come into a condition where they will be
everlastingly saved; not Universalism, but merely a universal opportunity
which must be decided by each individual for himself. HG353:5
Mark the distinctive difference between the drawing of the present time by
the Father and that later drawing of the Millennial age, which will not be
by the Father, but by the Son, and which will not be exclusive, but
inclusive, including all mankind. R4148:2, 2759:5, 2397:3, 1056:1
The drawing of all men is a future work, to be accomplished by the Christ,
while the drawing of the Little Flock in this present time is the Father's
work through various agencies. R4049:1, 4367:6, 4148:2, 1849:5, 1227:1;
E146; HG181:6, 353:5; NS568:6
Men cannot be drawn until they hear of him, therefore all men are to hear
of him. R691:1*
Not only will the way be much more favorable than the narrow way, but the
call and drawing will be more attractive to mankind. Instead of being
called to leave the human and earthly, it will be a drawing in perfect
harmony with all that is good of human nature in mankind. R1227:4
The Father draws to the Son for "justification by faith in his blood"
those who love righteousness and hate iniquity, and who are feeling after
God, if haply they might find him. (Acts 17:27) R4352:5
All this time the drawing power of Christ has been exerted upon a special
class, a Little Flock. Christ does draw some now to be his bride. It is
the love of Christ that constraineth or draweth us now. (2 Cor. 5:14)
R1055:1
The residue of mankind will not even be called or drawn until the Christ
(Head and Body) has been lifted up, both in sufferings and in glory. E414
The Glorified One will draw all men by the influence of truth and
righteousness. Only those who resist and refuse this drawing shall
ultimately die the second death. NS568:6
The power which constrains or draws the saints into harmony and union with
Christ, and through him with our Heavenly Father, is the truth. R1055:2
A knowledge of the same truth of God, of which the lifting up of Christ is
the foundation principle, will be the drawing and moving power of the
The Father's method of drawing is a proper sample of the drawing which our
Lord Jesus will do. The word draw in both cases is from the same Greek
word helkuo. (John 6:44) R1227:3
The Father draws us by the truth and by his providences. R1056:2
There will be no coercion or compulsion. It will be by the cords of truth
that all will be drawn. Those who resist will be privileged to do so, none
being drawn against their wills. R1227:3, 1056:2
The drawing is one thing and the coming another. It is God's prerogative
to invite, and man's privilege to come. R1056:2
Even when being drawn by the opening of our mental eyes to the truth under
the unfavorable conditions of the present time, we are not compelled to
follow; we may "go away." (John 6:66,67) R1056:2
We have two cords binding us--first, the truth coming out from God and
fastening upon honest hearts; and secondly, the faith and trust of our
consecrated hearts reaching back unto God again. So it will be with all
mankind. R1056:4
As the Father drew the Bride by the special promise of the heavenly
estate, so our Lord Jesus will hold out an earthly calling. R1227:3
The "undrawn" and "uncalled" of the present time, the vast majority of the
human family, are not reprobated to an eternity of torture, but will be
given a fair and gracious trial for life. R1941:1
The testimony of the ransom is universal. R2633:1*
Calvinists see in the word "all" no more than the elect, and in the word
"draw" nothing but force and compulsion; Universalists get the "all"
right, but hold the same erroneous view of "draw"; Arminians have a
correct view of "draw," but not of "all." R1226:3
Unto me -- The Greek word here rendered "unto" is pros, signifying
toward. R1226:6, 2759:5
John 12:33
What death -- The narrator states what these words signified;

nevertheless, they meant more than this. They meant also the high
exaltation which was promised Jesus. R2759:5
And not with reference to his exaltation to glory. R1054:3; 78:1*
The Jewish Talmud states, "Forty years before the destruction of the
Temple the judgment of capital crimes was taken away from Israel. The Jews
never crucified anyone. Only by the taking away of this authority from the
Jews that very year was the matter put in such a form that Jesus was not
stoned to death, but was crucified. R3554:4
Predicting that though our Lord's death by crucifixion might seem like
Satan's victory, it would lead to his exaltation and power to draw all
away from error and the service of Satan, to himself. R1226:6
John 12:34
The Son of man -- The Scriptures identify "The Son of Man" with the Lord
of glory, and with the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself, and with the
prehuman Logos, which came down from heaven and was made flesh. E150
This Son of man -- The Jews evidently identified this expression, "The
Son of Man," with their hoped-for Messiah, no doubt basing their hopes in
large measure upon Dan. 7:13. E150
John 12:36
Believe in the light -- But alas! Israel heeded not the light, nor the
warning. R2036:2
John 12:38
Who hath believed -- The joyful message, which, rightly appreciated,

should bring ready responses from every class, is generally rejected. E489
The vast majority of mankind are blind, so that they cannot see the light;
some are stone blind, so as to see nothing; others partially blind and get
a little glimmer by which they can discern some things indistinctly.
R2414:4
The Church is to realize that her mission is not to the blind and deaf,
but, To him "that hath an ear [to hear], let him hear." (Rev. 2:7) R2414:4
Our report -- Preaching. E47
To whom -- Few recognize the Lord's Arm during this age--"not many
great," etc. E47
The arm of the Lord -- Our Lord Jesus is prophetically represented as
the "right arm" or strength of Jehovah. E47
Christ is the power of God unto salvation. E489
John 12:40
He hath blinded -- "Unto you [not only the disciples of that day, but
the disciples all through the age] it is given to know the mystery of the
kingdom of God, but unto them that are without, all these things are done
in parables." (Mark 4:11) R1742:1
These minds are so prejudiced and blinded that they cannot receive the
message of redemption and reconciliation until the next age, when all the
blinded eyes shall be opened. (Isa. 35:5) R790:5
Hardened their heart -- That is to say, they were in a faithless
attitude, not readily impressionable, but rather inclined to be skeptical.
Therefore the evidences of the seal of God upon Jesus were not sufficient
for them. R2651:3
John 12:41
Esaias -- Greek for Isaiah. E47

Saw his glory -- In fulfillment of the divine promise, Jesus appeared at
his first advent and tentatively offered himself to Israel as their great
King of Glory. R4787:2
Applying Isa. 6:1; but in neither case referring to Jehovah, but Adonai,
which in this text does not apply to the Father but to the Son. E47
John 12:42
Many believed -- Such as Simon and Nicodemus. Nicodemus came to the Lord
by night to interview him, but Simon more shrewdly thought to get the
opportunity of a conversation directly with the Lord by inviting him to
dinner. R2201:1
John 12:43
Loved the praise of men -- Jesus' doctrines so conflicted with the

popular customs that they could be accepted only at the cost of social
position. Thus the integrity of his hearers was put to the test. R582:1*
Many modern preachers and intelligent lay members are fully convinced of
the fallacy of modern theology, but their love of popularity and ease
cause them to remain through life in a false and hypocritical position.
R582:1*
"Ye are they who justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your
hearts; for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the
sight of God." (Luke 16:15) R582:4*
John 12:46
Not abide in darkness -- Throughout the Scriptures light is used to

represent God, his servants and their messages; and, contrariwise,
darkness is the synonym for Satan, the prince of darkness, and all his
deluded followers. SM241:2
John 12:47
Not to judge -- The Lord's own testimony that the judgment of the world
did not begin at his first advent. R2434:4, 1405:2*
While judgment begins in a measure with every man as soon as he begins to
comprehend the divine testimony, it does not, in the case of the world in
general, reach its final decision until the Millennial age. R2057:6*
Though our Lord's mission at the first advent was not to judge, but to
redeem the world, the testimony is unmistakable that, at his second
advent, he will judge the world, and his saints will be associate judges.
R1383:6
As it was the mission of our Lord not to judge the world at his first
advent, but to lay down his life for the world; so it is the mission of
the Church now not to judge the world, but to "lay down our lives for the
brethren." (1 John 3:16) R2415:3
We are not to judge the world now, but on the contrary to judge nothing
before the time. But in God's due time the saints shall judge the world,
and that to the world's blessing. R2415:3
That the world has not yet been judged is evident; the wicked are not yet
overthrown. R1383:6
John 12:48
That judgeth him -- Greek, krino, is here used in referring to the

judgment or trial of the Millennial age when the Christ, Head and Body,
will be the judges. R2426:4
The word -- The Scriptures. R2677:5
In Rev. 20:12, the books opened (according to the rulings of which men
will be tried) we understand to be the books of the Bible. None are now on
trial to whom those books are not to some degree opened, understood.
R332:6; HG233:2
Not only the words of the Master and the apostles of the New Testament,
but also the message through the prophets of old. According to these
standards, each who would have eternal life must conform his living and
his thinking. NS858:1
The same law and the same understanding of the divine character that is
now presented to us will then be presented to them. God changes not, his
plain law changes not. HG233:2
The removal of the Jewish ban from the New Testament is the beginning of
the fulfillment of these words. R2420:4
The truth concerning the divine plan which he has been revealing since
1874 is doing its separating work; and the saints can see clearly where
the lines of judgment are being drawn between the faithful and the
unfaithful. R1362:2
Happy has it been for the comparatively few who have heard the Master's
Word in this present life, and have judged themselves thereby, and
submitted themselves to his righteous precepts. NS857:6
Individual Christians cannot shirk personal responsibility, placing it
upon pastors, teachers, councils and creeds. It is by the Word of the Lord
that we are judged and not by the opinions or precedents of our fellowmen.
D66
When judgment shall begin at the nominal house of God, the nominal systems
will fall, condemned by that Word. R5574:1
The Lord's Word is the test now to the nominal church--judging them,
telling them where the right line is, not only telling you and me, but
telling through us the fallen angels. Q19:T
We read also that they will be judged according to their works, and this
is quite contrary to the judgment that is now upon the Church; for we are
judged according to our faith, our endeavors, and not the actual results.
HG233:3; NS858:4
That I have spoken -- Directly, and through the apostles. R2420:5
The same -- The judgment will not be along new lines, but along old
lines. OV41:5
Judge him -- The same word is in Rev. 20:12 and 1 Cor. 6:1; and is
rendered "sue at the law" in Matt. 5:40. R332:6
The last day -- The day of judgment, now present, since 1874. R5574:1,
2420:5, 1362:2
The day of final reckoning. R2057:6
The last thousand-year day of the seven, the Millennial day. R2434:4,
2057:6; HG233:3
John 12:49
What I should say -- Our Lord's discourses were along the lines of
divine revelation, the Law and the prophets, and the fulfillment of these.
Our teaching should be along the same line, not human speculations and
philosophies, but the Word of God. R3726:5
John 12:50
As the Father said -- Our Lord Jesus in all matters acts as the
John 13
John 13:1
Before the feast -- The thirteenth of Nisan apparently was spent by our
Lord in quiet retirement. R3542:2
Jesus knew -- The cup of bitterness and ignominy which Jesus was
draining to the dregs was permitted of the Father. His will was entirely
submitted to the Father's will. R2313:1
His hour was come -- At the time of the Passover, to fulfill the types
and prophecies of the Law. R2312:3
Having loved -- Because of his love, he laid aside his glory and became
a man; because of his love he devoted himself as the man Christ Jesus.
R3542:6
There are two kinds of love; the intense, particular love, and the general
love, or kindness; and two sorts of love, affectionate love and loving
kindness. Here we see the special love or affection. R1254:3
His own -- Jesus loved all of his disciples; but that love was more
intense for some than for others. CR151:3
Not forgetting the length and breadth of Jesus' love for all humanity, he
had a special love for all his disciples. OV331:3
Because they had those qualities of heart that would make them lovable
from his standpoint. R5725:1
The quality that made Jesus love them was, first of all, their honesty.
The disciples manifested that they were ready to confess that they were
nothing of themselves. CR473:5
According to the Jewish custom, the Passover was celebrated by families,
and the twelve apostles, specially chosen by our Lord, constituted the
nucleus of the family of God, Judas not being excluded. R2449:2
This furnishes us the lesson that, as followers of Christ, we should not
judge one another's hearts, nor surmise evil. R2449:2 Nor need we suppose
that his love for the twelve applied to them exclusively: rather, that he
viewed the twelve as his representatives of "them also which should
believe on him through their word." (John 17:20) R2449:2
We are not to think of giving the world the same affection or love or
interest that we give to the household of faith. Neither does God.
CR473:3; R5724:6
He loved them -- Because of his love, he was now anxious to help his
dear disciples over a difficulty which, if not conquered, would hinder
their usefulness as his followers both in the present and future. R3542:6
Unto the end -- Completely, fully: his own sharp trials, present and
approaching, did not distract him, nor absorb his attention. R2449:2
At the conclusion of his earthly ministry, the Master still dearly loved
his disciples. R5724:3
Because he loved them, and knew that they loved him, he permitted them to
accompany him to the place of prayer, that they might watch and pray with
him. R1801:2
No waning of his love, not even when on the last night they all forsook
him and fled; his love for them never decreased. CR151:3, 474:1
Sending out Judas, who had a different spirit, which he did not love.
R1254:3
John 13:2
Supper being ended -- This was the Passover Supper--the Memorial Supper
of bread and wine being instituted afterward. R2450:1
He waited until supper was being served (not ended as in our Common
Version). R5091:1, 3543:1
They even proceeded to eat the supper, contrary to custom, with unwashed
feet. R2449:4
The devil having -- Judas' case resembles somewhat that of a lady who
had permitted evil spirits to get control of her will and lead her to do a
wrong, and then make her believe she had committed the unpardonable sin.
R2283:5*
Deliberate and intelligent rejection of the first principles of the Gospel
seems to imply an unfitness for further favors, on the ground that he that
is unfaithful in that which is least, would be unfaithful also with more.
R2283:6
Whose very existence is now being denied by many. F609; R3165:6, 2169:2
John 13:4
He riseth -- We, too, should not wait until our assistance is requested,
for in proportion as the served are developed disciples, they will not
ask. R2279:4, 844:4
From supper -- Apparently our Lord let the matter go to its full limit
to see whether or not any of his followers would improve the opportunity
to make himself servant of all. R5091:1, 3543:1
Permitting them to disagree without settling the dispute, without
appointing any to the menial service. He allowed them to think the matter
over, to relent and reconsider. R2449:4
His garments -- His outer garment, or mantle. R3543:1
Took a towel -- Attaching the towel to the girdle of his under-garments.
R2449:4
Girded himself -- That is to say, tightened the girdle worn around the
waist, which would hold up the flowing undergarments and keep them out of
the way of his activity. R3543:1, 5091:2
John 13:5
Poureth water -- The water was poured from a pitcher in a small stream
upon the feet, which were washed and rinsed. The basin was merely a
receptacle for receiving the soiled water. R5091:2, 3543:2, 2449:4
Thus each had clean water and little was wasted --for water is much more
scarce and precious there than with us. R2449:4
Wash the disciples' feet -- Apparently they not only did not have the
disposition to serve one another, but they did not desire to wash even the
Master's feet. R5091:1, 5193:4
The act was a pointed reproof for their neglect to wash his feet and one
another's. R5091:2
Love not only led our Lord to administer the reproof necessary, but led
him to do it in the wisest, best and kindest manner. His example should be
observed and copied by all his followers. R3542:6
Jesus did what he did because it was a helpful service, and was the
We do not get the lesson of the institution of a formal ceremony. It was
only a case of necessity. No such need exists with us today. R5091:3,
5375:5, 3543:6, 2450:2, 2278:3, 843:3, 194:5
There seems to be nothing symbolical in it. It is merely an illustration
of the principle of humility. R2450:2, 3537:5
Only one of the Evangelists remembered even to mention it. R2278:3
Because of the wearing of sandals, the feet would be considerably soiled
even after only a short journey and would, therefore, need refreshing.
R5091:3, 3543:1, 3364:1, 2449:3, 194:5
In our climate, washing the feet would be an inconvenience, the very
reverse of a pleasure and service to them; therefore contrary to the
example. R2479:1, 194:5
As we are in contact with the world, we are liable to a certain degree of
earthly defilement, and it behooves each, not only to look out for
himself, but to help one another to get rid of earthly defilements. R3544:1
As the Lord's company were not guests, but merely had the use of the room,
no servant appeared to wash their feet; and it would have been properly
the duty of one of the number to perform the service. R3543:1, 2449:3
Some Christian people have adopted feet-washing as a religious custom. We
are not to berate them. So long as they think they are doing the Lord's
will, they are right to follow the custom. R5091:4
Once a year, on the day before Good Friday, the Pope washes the feet of
twelve aged paupers, who are brought from the streets and duly prepared by
a preliminary washing in private. A similar ceremony is performed annually
by the Emperor of Austro-Hungary. R2450:4
Neither these ceremonies nor the ceremonious washing performed by various
denominations of Christendom is according to our Lord's example, but
contrary to it. R2450:4
Those who sat, really reclined with their feet extending backward, and
could quite easily be reached without disturbing those who were eating.
R2449:5
John 13:6
The cometh he -- Our Lord very evidently had already washed the feet of
several of his disciples, and seemingly none of them offered objection.
R2449:5
Peter saith -- Peter had a peculiar combination of character, part of
which was extremely good. R3543:2, 2449:5
Lord, dost thou -- "It is not appropriate, Lord, that one so great as
you should serve a person of my standing, a poor fisherman." R3543:2
John 13:7
Jesus answered -- But our Lord did not stop to reprimand Peter. R2449:5
John 13:8
Thou shalt never -- Peter had too much reverence to wish the Lord to be
his servant. R5091:2, 3543:2, 2449:5
Peter's second remark was less praiseworthy than his first. It was hard
for Peter to realize that he was the disciple and the Lord was the
teacher; that it was for him to obey and not to dictate. R3543:2
John 13:9
Not my feet only -- If this gives me a more particular part with you.
R5091:2
If his washing had anything to do with his nearness to the Master and his
relationship to him, then he wanted it. R3543:2
Noble, thorough-going, whole-hearted, fervent Peter! R2449:6
But also my hands -- There is a lesson for us in this matter: We are not
to dictate to the Lord, nor to attempt to be wise or good or obedient in
ways that he has not directed. R3543:3
John 13:10
He that is washed -- Properly they had all bathed in accordance with the
Jewish requirement of the putting away of all filth at the beginning of
the Passover season. R3543:3, 4906:5
The apostles had been with our Lord, and for three years had been greatly
blessed by "the washing of water through the Word." (Eph. 5:26) R2449:6,
2279:4, 844:5
All who are justified and consecrated members of his Body already had the
bath, the washing of regeneration, and are already clean through the word
spoken unto them. (John 15:3) R3544:1
To wash his feet -- The Lord was giving a deep spiritual lesson: each
one needs to be washed, to be cleansed, before he can be a joint-sufferer,
before he can be a joint-heir. R5091:3
Public baths were in use at that time, but even after having taken a
general bath, on return to the home it was customary to complete the
matter by washing the feet. R2449:6
They merely now needed the rinsing of their feet, the cleansing of the
members that had come in contact with the earth. R3543:3
But is clean -- Somewhat obscure; the Revised Version is better: "He
that is bathed needeth not save to wash his feet to be clean every whit."
R3543:3
"He who has been bathed has no need except to wash his feet, but is wholly
clean." (Diaglott) R2449:6
Every whit -- Those who are cleansed by obedience to his message and its
spirit, are thereby made clean outwardly, as well as inwardly. R5389:3
Ye are clean -- He had accepted them as his disciples and had reckonedly
imputed to them the merit of his sacrifice as a covering of their
blemishes, the full testimony of which would be given them by and by at
Pentecost. R3543:3, 4906:5
But not all -- There was one in the number whose heart was not clean.
R3543:3, 4906:5
There is an intimation in the Lord's words, too, that the spirit of pride
which had manifested itself among them had been inspired to some extent by
Judas, as evil communications always are corrupting. (1 Cor. 15:33) R2449:6
John 13:11
For he knew -- Our Lord did not pass Judas by, but washed his feet with
the rest, knowing the while of his perfidy. R3543:4, 4906:5, 2449:6
It seems probable that Judas was not with the others when our Lord washed
their feet. R2772:2
Not all clean -- This expression shows us clearly that he had in mind a
higher cleansing, of which the washing of their feet and their previous
bath were but figures. R3543:3, 4906:5
Although not understood by the rest, our Lord's words must have been
appreciated by Judas, as were also his subsequent words in verses 18, 26,
27 and 28. R3543:4
John 13:12
He said unto them -- To the foot-washing illustration he adds his words

of counsel, showing how different must be the disposition among his
disciples from that which characterizes the godless world. R1987:3
All four evangelists heard this discourse, but it was left to John to
describe it. R1047:1*
Know ye -- Understand ye. R3543:5 This was in harmony with what he told
Peter in verse 7. R3543:5
John 13:13
Master and Lord -- The man Christ Jesus, before his death, might be
properly styled a Lord, a high one in authority. E134
When a man he was perfect, and hence far superior to those about him. In
addition to this, as the agent or messenger of Jehovah, he was a Lord, a
master, a teacher, among men. R809:4
Ye say well -- Or, properly. R809:4
So I am -- Pointing out that this menial service did not signify that he
was not the Lord and Master; but, that as Lord and Master, he was not
unwilling to serve the lesser members of Jehovah's family. R2450:1
John 13:14
Have washed your feet -- Thus rebuking their inhumility, and at the same
time setting them an example that would apply to every affair of life,
namely, that they should be glad to serve one another on every proper
occasion. R3543:6
Ye also ought -- You have witnessed my humility in this matter, and now
I want to tell you that you ought to have this attitude toward one
another. R5091:3
Esteem and honor one another in proportion as you find in each other
unselfish sacrificing love and service. R2278:6, 844:1
Wash one another's feet -- To teach the disciples that they should not
be above doing the humblest service for each other as brethren, and to
emphasize the need of daily cleansing of the Lord's disciples from
earth-defilement. R5375:5
By love we are to serve one another, but not as a mere formality. (Gal.
5:13) R5091:6
The washing of the Body with the truth, the sanctifying and cleansing of
it with the Word, is in progress now. What are we doing to cleanse and
purify the faith and lives of our fellow members? R2279:4, 844:5
Wash and be washed one of another, cleanse and purge away the defilements
with which each comes daily in contact in the world, that ye may be clean.
R2279:4, 3544:4, 844:5
Before we can help others to cleanse their way of life, it is necessary
that we have experience along the same lines. R5091:5
Some think it necessary to wash the feet of others. But since there is no
real good to be accomplished by such a ceremony, there is no reason why it
should be done. Jesus would not have washed their feet if they had not
needed washing. R5375:5
The thought is to appreciate the privilege of real service, rather than
the opportunity of doing something merely because it is menial. R5375:5,
4399:3
In 1 Tim. 5:9-16 we read that if a widowed sister had washed the saint's
feet, if she had shown such a disposition, Paul would advocate a special
care for her, for she had manifested a loyal and true spirit. R5091:4,
3543:6
John 13:15
An example -- Was the example in the principle, or in the method of

service, in the ceremony? To suppose the latter would be to hide the real
lesson under a form. R2279:1, 844:2
The example which our Lord set was not so much in the kind of service,
feet washing, as in the fact of service. R2450:2
If the example were in the form, then every item in the form should be
observed: an upper room; a supper; sandals; the same kind of garments; the
towel girdle, etc. R2279:1, 844:2
Those in Eastern countries, where sandals are still worn, may find
opportunity to follow the example in the same form; and those differently
circumstanced may follow the "example" in a thousand forms. R2279:1, 844:4
As I have done -- So it can be said that we remind others of someone
they have known, Jesus of Nazareth; resembling him so much that we must be
his brother. R285:4, 210:4*
John 13:16
The servant -- Preceding events--the feast at Bethany, the triumphal

entry, the inquiry of the Greeks--indicated a growing popularity, and the
disciples were full of ambitious thoughts respecting the future. R3542:2
Even a very little prominence may become a dangerous snare unless it is
coupled with great humility. R1987:3
As they assembled with a host to appoint them their places at the supper,
a discussion as to their prominence and their rights to the most honorable
places, nearest the Master, was not surprising. R3542:2
From Luke's account it would appear that on this occasion there was a
strife amongst the apostles, a contention, respecting which of them should
be esteemed greatest. (Luke 22:24-31) R2449:3
The spirit of rivalry was warm in their hearts, and no one volunteered to
render the service, nor had any one the right to demand it in a company in
which the Lord had made no special rank. R3543:1
The Lord noted among his disciples a spirit of selfishness; overhearing
them disputing which of them should be greatest, and foreseeing that this
would injure them, he rebuked them for their lack of humility. R2278:3,
843:3
In their fear to be the least, all the disciples had shunned the
opportunity of service to the Master and for each other. R3543:5
Greater than his lord -- If the majority heard his words, you might
expect them to hear yours; but if as a mass they rejected his words, they
will reject yours also. R571:5
They called in question the legitimacy of his birth, applied all manner of
vile epithets to him, denounced him as an enemy of the government, and
finally caused his crucifixion. HG713:2*
John 13:17
If ye know -- If you appreciate these principles applicable to all the

affairs of life. R2450:4
These things -- The things that make for our peace. R5228:5
The putting away of bitterness, evil-speaking, busy-bodying, that we may
the more completely put on Christ, and be more fully under the control of
his holy Spirit of love, meekness, patience, long-suffering, kindness.
R4584:2
Happy are ye -- You will be blessed thereby, helped in my service, and
prepared for the Kingdom in which I have promised you a share. R2278:6,
844:2
If ye do them -- If you practice the lesson. R844:2, 2278:6
If you live according to this rule, loving and serving one another. R2450:4
It is not enough simply to resolve or determine to do right or to obey
God. Unless we go further, and actually make advancement in character, we
will prove failures. R1802:2*
How prone we all are to desire and to acquire knowledge at the expense of
our spiritual development, forgetting that "knowledge puffeth up, but love
edifieth." (1 Cor. 8:1) R1802:2*
John 13:18
I know whom -- Jesus knew who it was that should betray him, and was,
therefore, neither surprised nor disconcerted because of Judas' course;
yet undoubtedly it must have had a saddening effect upon our Master.
R4908:2, 3760:3
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EXPANDED

CHICAGO BIBLE STUDENTS

CHICAGO BIBLE STUDENTS

CHICAGO BIBLE STUDENTS

A - Scripture Studies, Volume 1 - The Divine Plan of the Ages

R - Watch Tower Reprints

DENOTING PAGE AREAS

:I- x Referring to page numbers of forewords in Six 2 5

* Referring to quotations from articles not written

- "To," Used where a reference covers multiple

/ Separating page numbers of Old and New

Italics Generally used to denote Hebrew and Greek

In the beginning -- Not of the universe, but of our planet.

And there was light -- Possibly electrical, as Aurora

Called the light day -- Days, marked by a dull, grayish

Be a firmament -- An expanse of atmosphere. F31

Made the firmament -- The atmosphere, composed of

Were the second day -- The Paleozoic age, Silurian

Bring forth grass -- Vegetation began on the third day,

Grass and herb -- Carbonic and nitrogenous gasses caused

Were the third day -- The Carboniferous era of 7000

Let there be lights -- The appearance of the sun and moon

And God made -- Literally, "caused to shine," not

The greater light -- Said by Pope Gregory VII to represent

Were the fourth day -- The Triassic period of 7000 years.

Waters bring forth -- This is in harmony with scientific

Living creature -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being, as of

Were the fifth day -- The Reptilian age of 7000 years.

Let the earth bring forth -- A remarkable form of

So God created man -- Not merely man's body; but man,

God blessed them -- With everlasting life at their

And have dominion -- Like God. PD7/13; R5290:6

Shall be for meat -- Presumably animal food, now eaten

There is life -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being, as of man.

That he had made -- Adam was "the son of God."

Finished -- God finished his creative work. R2837:4

On the seventh day -- The seventh period of 7000 years,

And sanctified it -- Throughout God's plan six periods of

These are -- As a good illustration of the folly of so-called

Not caused it to rain -- The earth was still enveloped in

A mist -- No rain before the flood; vegetation sustained by

LORD God formed man -- It is not said of man, "Let the

Planted a garden -- A paradise, soon to be restored, and

To grow every tree -- Every kind of tree. A209

A river -- Might represent the human race. R4240:6*

Gold -- Symbol of the divine nature. T18; R4240:6*

Gihon -- Corresponding to the servants before the throne--

Hiddekel -- Flowing toward Assyria, the world, the

Of every tree -- Life-sustaining trees. R4792:5

But -- The provision (of life) was conditional, dependent

Meet for him -- Adam was so far superior to all other

Living creature -- Nephesh, soul, sentient being, as of

And Adam -- In the two years before the fall. C127

One of his ribs -- Implying separation of some of his

Made he a woman -- Eve, type of the Church. E140

Taken out of Man -- They twain were one; neither one

Unto his wife -- Marriage is honorable in all. (Heb. 13:4)

Now the serpent -- Satan possessed the serpent. R5150:4